System implications of integrated electronic utilization in large-scale digital computers

Circuit designers have frequently treated system design as a separate discipline. The development of integrated circuits has drawn many circuit engineers even further away from system considerations as they concentrate on intricate device parameters. This paper discusses the mutual constraints of system and circuit design which actually require even greater attention if integrated circuits are to be employed. Emphasis is placed on compromises the circuit designer must consider at the circuit level to achieve an optimum system. In addition, the effect of his decisions on procurement, test, repair, and support expenditures are discussed. A summary of the related systems and circuit specifications for a large scale digital computer using integrated circuits is presented. The selection and specification of the desired circuits was developed with particular emphasis on the system considerations discussed herein.