23 Jun
2025
23 Jun
'25
11:38 a.m.
On 2025Jun 22,, at 11:14 PM, Bob Rosenbloom via cctalk <cctalk(a)classiccmp.org>
wrote:
There were a whole bunch of cartridge / cassette systems made to record and play back
RS-232 data. Sykes (made the 4912 cassette unit for Tektronix) , Memodyne, Teac, Sy/MAX
and many others made them. I have a Tektronix 4923 that I've used in line with a 4006
terminal connected to a PDP-8e. Used to load / save programs etc. A bit awkward to use
sometimes but it's better, and faster, than paper tape. Nice that it's vintage
also. Some of these are incremental tape drive systems and can record single characters
at a time. I had a Plessey recorder that could do that though it was a 7 bit parallel
system.
Just as a note if you’re unaware and of any interest: the 4923 has an 8008 processor in
it.
I have one as well, for years, though have never tried to use it, didn’t have a cartridge
or a manual.
Just searched, there is (now) a manual available on line.