A Mini-Micro Computer Interface

Abstract

<p>An interface between a NOVA 830 and IMSAI 8080 microcomputer is presented. The design and implementation of this interface will enable the asynchrous interchange of information between the mini and minicomputer mentioned.</p> <p>The design presented in this thesis will enable the bidirectional transfer of data blocks via DMA. Besides the capability to generate DMA cycles on both computer buses, a portion of the NOVA 830 memory can be shared. Under this shared memory arrangement, the IMSAI 8080 microcomputer can access the shared NOVA 830 memory as though it is directly connected to its system bus.</p> <p>Along with the circuit design of the interface, the software requirements involved to ultilize the interface are also discussed.</p>