A VLSI Microcomputer: The RCA ATMAC

A company like RCA may decide to design a new computer for a variety of reasons, most of them non-technical. First, as with the mainframe computer manufacturers, a new computer may be introduced in order to continue or expand an existing line of computer systems within the firm´s overall product line. In such cases, the new computer will be similar to the other members of the product line family. Second, it may be a new item added to a firm´s present product line in order to augment other electronic products. This has frequently been the case in the semiconductor business. If, however, a new computer is successful, additional computer products such as memory devices and I/O controllers may be developed as well.