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 Training Guide for 
 AFOS Operators 
 
 Developed by 
 
 The AFOS Instructor Staff 
 
 AFOS Training Program 
 
 June 1 , 1 978 
 
 U.S. DEPARTMENT OF COMMERCE 
 
 National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration 
 
 National Weather Service 
 
AFOS TRAINING GUIDE 
 UPDATE/CHANGE CHECKLIST 
 
 V 
 
 Change # _V Ch-Topic Page Date 
 
 Revision 1 
 
 7/13/78 
 
 Change # _¥ Ch-Topic Page Pat 
 
 1 
 
 -4 
 
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 PREFACE 
 
 The AFOS Training Guide has been written to present, in as concise a 
 manner as possible, all the information necessary to successfully operate 
 the AFOS system. 
 
 The information is broken into three parts. The first part, which will 
 be presented a week or two before your actual training on the equipment, 
 is intended to provide an overview of the system. The nature of the 
 communications circuit to be used in AFOS is discussed. There is also an 
 introduction to the various types of equipment used in the system along 
 with a discussion of the types of system failures which can occur. 
 
 The second part will be used for your training session with an AFOS 
 instructor. The actual step-by-step procedures necessary to operate the 
 system will be presented. Techniques used to recover from system failures 
 will also be included in this section. 
 
 Third, in order to present the material in parts one and two as concisely 
 as possible, most technical information has been omitted. This information 
 will be included as appendices to the Training Guide. A Glossary is also 
 included. 
 
 The goal of the AFOS Training Program is to have all operational Weather 
 Service personnel, at the completion of their total training, able to 
 operate the AFOS system with competence and confidence. This Training 
 Guide is an integral part of that program. 
 
Intentionally Left Blank 
 
 ii 
 
TABLE OF CONTENTS 
 
 PAGE 
 
 PREFACE 1 
 
 CHAPTER 1: AFOS COMMUNICATIONS OVERVIEW 1-0-1 
 
 INTRODUCTION 1-0-3 
 
 TOPIC 1: NATIONAL DISTRIBUTION CIRCUIT 
 
 INTRODUCTION 1-1-0 
 
 SECTION A 
 SECTION B 
 SECTION C 
 SECTION D 
 SECTION E 
 SECTION F 
 
 The National Distribution Circuit .. 1-1-1 
 
 Date Transmission on the NDC 1-1-1 
 
 NDC Message Format 1-1-2 
 
 Message Transmission Priority 1-1-3 
 
 Message Transmission Rates 1-1-5 
 
 Data Entry Locations 1-1-5 
 
 TOPIC 2: STATE DISTRIBUTION CIRCUIT (SDC) 
 
 INTRODUCTION 1-2-0 
 
 SECTION A: State Distribution Circuits 1-2-1 
 
 SECTION B: NWS Offices not on the NDC/SDC 1-2-1 
 
 TOPIC 3: OTHER COMMUNICATIONS CIRCUITS INTERFACED 
 WITH AFOS 
 
 INTRODUCTION 1 -3-0 
 
 SECTION A 
 SECTION B 
 SECTION C 
 
 NOAA Weather Wire (NWW) 1-3-1 
 
 The Overlay Circuits 1-3-1 
 
 The "Gateway" Operation 1-3-2 
 
 TOPIC 4: NATIONAL CENTERS INTERFACED WITH AFOS 
 
 INTRODUCTION 1 -4-1 
 
 SECTION A: The Systems Monitoring and 
 
 Coordination Center (SMCC) 1-4-2 
 
 SECTION B: SMCC, NMC, and NCC Network 1-4-5 
 
 SECTION D: National Severe Storms Forecast 
 
 Center (NSSFC) 1-4-5 
 
 SECTION E: Air Force Global Weather Center 
 
 (AFGWC) 1-4-5 
 
 in 
 
TABLE OF CONTENTS 
 
 CHAPTER 2: 
 
 AFOS EQUIPMENT , 
 
 INTRODUCTION , 
 
 TOPIC 1: OPERATOR'S CONSOLE 
 INTRODUCTION , 
 
 0-3 
 0-3 
 
 2-1-0 
 
 SECTION A 
 SECTION B 
 SECTION C 
 
 The Alphanumeric Display Module .... 2-1-1 
 
 The ADM Keyboard 2-1-4 
 
 The Graphic Display Module 2-1-17 
 
 TOPIC 2 
 
 THE COMMUNICATIONS/COMPUTER MODULE 
 INTRODUCTION 
 
 2- 
 
 SECTION A: 
 SECTION B: 
 
 SECTION C 
 SECTION D 
 SECTION E 
 
 SECTION F: 
 
 The S/230 Eclipse Minicomputer 2- 
 
 The Data Transfer and Control 
 
 Assembly (DTCA) 2- 
 
 The Disk Storage System 2- 
 
 The Diskette Archival System 2- 
 
 Electronics Industries Association 
 
 (EIA) Switch Panel 2- 
 
 AC Power Control (ACPC) Unit for 
 
 The CCM 2- 
 
 TOPIC 3: PRINTER/PLOTTER MODULE AND KEYBOARD/PRINTER 
 
 SECTION A: 
 SECTION B: 
 
 CHAPTER 3: AFOS DATA BASE OVERVIEW 
 
 INTRODUCTION 
 
 The Printer/Plotter Module (PPM) 2- 
 
 The Keyboard/Printer (KB/P) 2- 
 
 2-0 
 2-1 
 
 2-3 
 2-5 
 2-10 
 
 2-13 
 2-15 
 
 3-0 
 3-1 
 
 3-0-3 
 
 TOPIC 1 
 
 STORAGE OF DATA BASE PRODUCTS 
 
 SECTION A 
 SECTION B 
 SECTION C 
 SECTION D 
 SECTION E 
 SECTION F 
 
 The Product Identifier (CCCNNNXXX) 
 
 The Node Identifier (CCC) 
 
 The Category Inventory List (CIL) 
 The Product Inventory List ( PIL) . 
 
 The Data Base 
 
 SDC and NDC Node Data Storage 
 Relationship 
 
 1-0 
 1-2 
 1-3 
 1-5 
 1-6 
 
 3-1-7 
 
 TOPIC 2 
 
 DATA BASE STORAGE ON DISK 
 
 SECTION A: The AFOS Disk 3-2-0 
 
 iv 
 
TABLE OF CONTENTS 
 
 CHAPTER 4: SYSTEM OPERATION 
 
 INTRODUCTION 
 
 TOPIC 1: FAULT RECOGNITION AND SYSTEM ANALYSIS 
 INTRODUCTION , 
 
 SECTION A 
 SECTION B 
 SECTION C 
 SECTION D 
 
 Failures due to Operator Error 
 Failures due to System Errors . 
 
 ADM Error Messages 
 
 KB/P Error Messages 
 
 TOPIC 2 
 
 AFOS/RDOS SYSTEM RECOVERY PROCEDURES 
 INTRODUCTION 
 
 SECTION A 
 SECTION B 
 SECTION C 
 SECTION D 
 SECTION E 
 
 Recovery from an ADM malfunction .. 
 Recovery from a GDM malfunction ... 
 Recovery from AFOS Program Failures 
 Recovery from RDOS Program Failures 
 Data Base Cleanup using Modify .... 
 
 4-0-1 
 4-0-3 
 
 4-1-0 
 
 4-1-1 
 4-1-2 
 4-1-3 
 4-1-4 
 
 4-2-1 
 
 4-2-2 
 4-2-3 
 4-2-4 
 4-2-5 
 4-2-7 
 
 CHAPTER 5: PRODUCT RETRIEVAL 5-0-1 
 
 TOPIC 1: THE CATEGORY INVENTORY LIST (CIL) 
 INTRODUCTION 
 
 TOPIC 2 
 
 SECTION A: Retrieve a Category Inventory List 
 (CIL) and Page Through , 
 
 SECTION B: Retrieve the National Category 
 
 Inventory List , 
 
 SECTION C: Retrieve an International Category 
 Inventory List 
 
 THE PRODUCT INVENTORY LIST (PIL) 
 INTRODUCTION 
 
 SECTION A: Retrieve a Product Inventory List 
 (PIL) and Page Through , 
 
 SECTION B: Retrieve a Local Warning Composite 
 PIL 
 
 SECTION C: Retrieve the National Warning 
 
 Composite PIL 
 
 5-1-1 
 
 5-1-2 
 5-1-4 
 5-1-5 
 
 5-2-1 
 
 5-2-2 
 5-2-4 
 5-2-6 
 
TOPIC 3: 
 
 TABLE OF CONTENTS 
 
 ALPHANUMERIC PRODUCTS 
 
 SECTION A: Retrieve a Specific Product , 
 
 SECTION B: Retrieve Several Products , 
 
 SECTION C: Retrieve All the Latest Products 
 
 of a Category , 
 
 SECTION D: Use Parenthesis Techniques to 
 
 Retrieve Several Products , 
 
 SECTION E: Retrieve all Stored Versions of a 
 
 Product , 
 
 TOPIC 4: 
 
 GRAPHIC PRODUCTS 
 
 SECTION A: Retrieve a Graphic PIL 
 
 SECTION B: Retrieve a Graphic Product 
 
 SECTION C: Overlay Several Graphic Products . 
 
 SECTION D: Use Parenthesis Technique to Over- 
 lay Graphic Products 
 
 SECTION E: Overlay the Three Most Current 
 
 Versions of a Graphic 
 
 TOPIC 5: LIST OF PRODUCT RETRIEVAL COMMANDS 
 CHAPTER 6: MESSAGE COMPOSITION , 
 
 INTRODUCTION 
 
 TOPIC 1: THE HEADER BLOCK 
 
 INTRODUCTION 
 
 SECTION A: Complete a Header Block 
 TOPIC 2: COMPOSING MESSAGES 
 
 SECTION A 
 SECTION B 
 SECTION C 
 
 Compose a Free Text Message 
 
 Text Accumulate 
 
 Compose and Overlay an Alphanumeric 
 Product on a Graphic 
 
 TOPIC 3: 
 
 PREFORMATTED MESSAGES 
 
 SECTION A: Use a Preformatted Message 
 SECTION B: Compose a Preformat , 
 
 TOPIC 4: 
 
 TOPIC 5: 
 
 EDITING MESSAGES 
 
 SECTION A: Edit a Product 
 
 THE PAPER TAPE PUNCH 
 
 SECTION A: Terminate and Activate the Paper 
 
 Tape Punch 
 
 SECTION B: Manually Punch a Tape 
 
 SECTION C: Teletype Character Conversions .. 
 
 5-3-1 
 5-3-2 
 
 5-3-3 
 
 5-3-4 
 
 5-3-5 
 
 5-4-1 
 5-4-2 
 5-4-3 
 
 5-4-4 
 
 5-4-5 
 
 5-5-1 
 
 6-0-1 
 
 6-0-2 
 
 6-1-1 
 6-1-2 
 
 6-2-1 
 6-2-2 
 
 6-2-3 
 
 6-3-1 
 6-3-3 
 
 6-4-1 
 
 6-5-1 
 6-5-2 
 6-5-3 
 
 vi 
 
TABLE OF CONTENTS 
 
 TOPIC 6: LIST OF MSG COMMANDS 6-6-1 
 
 CHAPTER 7: ALARM/ALERT 7-0-1 
 
 INTRODUCTION 7-0-2 
 
 TOPIC 1 
 
 DESIGNATING ALARM/ALERT PRODUCTS 
 
 SECTION A: Designate Special Consoles 1 and 2 . 7-1-1 
 SECTION B: Designate a Product to Activate 
 
 the Alarm or Alert 7-1-2 
 
 SECTION C: Cancel a Previous Alarm/Alert 
 
 Designation for a Product 7-1-3 
 
 SECTION D: List the Products which Activate 
 
 the Alarm or Alert 7-1-4 
 
 TOPIC 2: DISPLAYING ALARM/ALERT PRODUCTS 
 
 SECTION A 
 SECTION B 
 SECTION C 
 SECTION D 
 
 Clear the Alarm 7-2-1 
 
 Clear the Alert 7-2-2 
 
 How to Clear Multiple Alarm/Alerts . 7-2-3 
 
 Display the Alarm/Alert Queue 7-2-4 
 
 TOPIC 3: 
 
 SUPPLEMENTAL INFORMATION 
 
 SECTION A: Alarm/Alert Events 7-3-1 
 
 SECTION B: Console Activation 7-3-2 
 
 TOPIC 4: LIST OF ALARM/ALERT COMMANDS 
 
 CHAPTER 8: COMPUTER ASSISTED PROGRAMS 8-0-1 
 
 TOPIC 1 
 
 PROCEDURES 
 
 SECTION A 
 SECTION B 
 SECTION C 
 SECTION D 
 SECTION E 
 
 8-1-1 
 
 Activate a Procedure 8-1-1 
 
 Terminate a Procedure 8-1-2 
 
 Supplemental Information 8-1-3 
 
 Complete a Procedure Preformat 8-1-4 
 
 Name or Rename a Procedure or 
 
 Delete a Procedure from storage .... 8-1-7 
 
 TOPIC 2: LIST OF COMMANDS 
 CHAPTER 9: DATA BASE COMMANDS 
 
 9-0-1 
 
 TOPIC 1: FILE COMMANDS 
 
 SECTION A 
 SECTION B 
 SECTION C 
 SECTION D 
 SECTION E 
 
 Save Commands 9-1-1 
 
 Store Commands 9-1-2 
 
 List Command 9-1-3 
 
 Display Command 9-1-4 
 
 Delete Command 9-1-5 
 
 vii 
 
TABLE OF CONTENTS 
 
 TOPIC 2: NDC/SDC DATA TRANSMISSION 
 
 SECTION A: Send Commands 9-2-1 
 
 SECTION B: Mail Commands 9-2-2 
 
 TOPIC 3: WISH LIST 
 
 INTRODUCTION 9-3-1 
 
 SECTION A 
 SECTION B 
 SECTION C 
 
 Display the Wish List 9-3-2 
 
 Add a Product to the Wish List ... 9-3-3 
 
 Delete a Product from the Wish 
 
 List 9-3-4 
 
 TOPIC 4: LIST OF DATA BASE COMMANDS 9-4-1 
 
 CHAPTER 10: ARCHIVING 10-0-1 
 
 INTRODUCTION 10-0-2 
 
 TOPIC 1: ARCHIVE STATUS 
 
 SECTION A 
 SECTION B 
 SECTION C 
 
 Determine Archive Status 10-1-1 
 
 Terminate and Restart Archive .... 10-1-2 
 Initialize Archive 10-1-3 
 
 TOPIC 2: MANUAL ARCHIVING 
 
 SECTION A: Archive a Product Manually 10-2-1 
 
 TOPIC 3: RETRIEVING ARCHIVED DATA 
 
 SECTION A: The List Command 10-3-1 
 
 SECTION B: Retrieval of Information 10-3-2 
 
 TOPIC 4: LIST OF ARCHIVE COMMANDS 10-4-1 
 
 viii 
 
TABLE OF FIGURES 
 Page Numbers List First Appearance Of Figures 
 
 Figure 1-1 AFOS National Distribution Circuit 1-1-0 
 
 Figure 1-2 Message Transmission Rates 1-1-4 
 
 Figure 1-3 Message Transmission Rates 1-1-4 
 
 Figure 1-4 AFOS State Distribution Circuits 1-2-0 
 
 Figure 1-5. SMCC Data Distribution . ... 1-4-4 
 
 Figure 2-1 Operator's Console 2-1-0 
 
 Figure 2-2 ADM CRT Control s 2-1-1 
 
 Figure 2-3 ADM CRT 2-1-2 
 
 Figure 2-4 ADM Keyboard 2-1-4 
 
 Figure 2-5 Standard Keyboard and Special Function Keys 
 
 in Groups 2-1-4 
 
 Figure 2-6 Group 2 2-1-5 
 
 Figure 2-7 Group 3 2-1-9 
 
 Figure 2-8 Group 4 2-1-11 
 
 Figure 2-9 Tab, Escape, and Control Keys (Group 5) 2-1-13 
 
 Figure 2-10 Edit Text Keys (Group 6) 2-1-15 
 
 Figure 2-11 GDM CRT 2-1-16 
 
 Figure 2-12 CRT Controls 2-1-18 
 
 Figure 2-13 Display Control Panel 2-1-20 
 
 Figure 2-14 CCM 2-2-0 
 
 Figure 2-15 Eclipse Computer Console 2-2-1 
 
 Figure 2-16 DTCA 2-2-3 
 
 Disk Drive Controls 2-2-7 
 
 Figure 2-17 
 Figure 2-18 
 Figure 2-19 Single Minicomputer Configuration 2-2-12 
 
 Diskette Drive 2-2-10 
 
 IX 
 
TABLE OF FIGURES 
 
 Figure 2-20 Typical Two Minicomputer Configuration 2-2-13 
 
 Figure 2-21 ACPC Unit 2-2-15 
 
 Figure 2-22 The PPM 2-3-0 
 
 Figure 2-23 The KB/P 2-3-1 
 
 Figure 2-24 Operator's Controls 2-3-2 
 
 Figure 2-25 KB/P 2-3-4 
 
 Figure 3-1 Node Identifier 3-1-2 
 
 Figure 3-2 Product Category 3-1-3 
 
 Figure 3-3 Product Designator 3-1-5 
 
 Figure 3-4 Data Base 3-1-6 
 
 Figure 3-5 Data Flow 3-1-7 
 
 Figure 5-1 Sample Local CIL 5-1-3 
 
 Figure 5-2 Sample PIL 5-2-3 
 
 Figure 5-3 Sample Composite PIL 5-2-5 
 
 Figure 6-1 Sample Header Block 6-1-4 
 
 Figure 8-1 Sample Procedure Preformat 8-1-6 
 
 X 
 
MINI GLOSSARY 
 
 The following is a brief list of some of the more commonly used terms 
 which will be encountered in the material which follows. A glossary of 
 AFOS terminology can be found at the end of this document. 
 
 A 1. Alphanumeric as an ADM 
 
 2. Alphanumeric Display Screen 
 as in AG, AK, AGG, etc. 
 
 ADM Alphanumeric Display Module 
 
 AFOS Automation of Field Operations 
 
 and Services 
 
 AG AFOS Operator Console Con- 
 
 AGG figurations of one Alphanumeric 
 
 AGGG Display Module and one, two, or 
 
 three Graphic Display Modules 
 
 AK Alphanumeric Display Screen 
 
 with Keyboard 
 
 CCM Communications Computer 
 
 Module 
 
 CRT Cathode Ray Tube - the electronic 
 
 display screen 
 
 DISK A flat circular metal plate 
 
 with magnetic material on 
 both sides, on which data 
 can be stored by selective 
 magnetization. The DISK 
 is continuously rotated and 
 is read or written on (data 
 stored) by means of one or 
 more read/write heads mounted 
 on movable or fixed arms. 
 DISKS may be premanently 
 mounted on a shaft (fixed 
 disk) or may be contained 
 in an assembly that allows 
 easy removal and replacement 
 (removable DISK or DISK pack). 
 
 xi 
 
DISKETTE (ALSO FLOPPY A flat round piece of " 
 
 DISK OR FLEX DISK) flexible material covered 
 
 with magnetic particles 
 
 (on one or both sides). 
 
 The DISKETTE is encased in 
 
 a square protective cover, 
 
 with write protect, indexing, 
 
 read/write, and disk drive 
 
 openings. The DISKETTE is 
 
 continuously rotated and 
 
 accessed by a single read/ 
 
 write head on a movable arm. 
 
 KB/P Keyboard/printer 
 
 NDC National Distribution Circuit 
 
 RAS Remote Assistance Section 
 
 RDOS Real-Time Disk Operating System 
 
 SDC State Distribution Circuit 
 
 (occasionally called a Star 
 Network) 
 
 SMCC System Monitoring and Coordination f 
 
 Center 
 
 i 
 
 xii 
 
CHAPTER 1 
 AFOS COMMUNICATIONS OVERVIEW 
 
 1-0-1 
 
Intentionally Left Blank 
 
 ( 
 
 1-0-2 
 
AFOS COMMUNICATIONS OVERVIEW 
 INTRODUCTION 
 
 Since the inception of the old "Weather Bureau" to the present, 
 communications have made the NWS work 
 
 AFOS follows in the long line of improved communications. At a rate 
 of 40 times that of RAWARC and 10 times the total communications of 
 the present offices AFOS represents a "quantum" jump in the flow of 
 information on NWS and the outside users lines. 
 
 In this chapter the central nervous system of AFOS will be discussed 
 as well as the 50 plus pressure points (WSFO s) . Additionally, the 
 discussion will lead into the impact of the system's "vital organs" 
 (the National Centers) . When you have finished this chapter you will 
 understand the AFOS communications system and the way your office 
 interfaces with the system. 
 
 / 
 
 1-0-3 
 
AFOS COMMUNICATIONS OVERVIEW 
 TOPIC 1 NATIONAL DISTRIBUTION CIRCUIT (NDC) 
 
 INTRODUCTION 
 
 "The backbone communications circuit for he AFOS system is called the 
 National Distribution Circuit (NDC) . The NDC is a closed loop 2400 
 bit per second circuit comprised of leased dedicated, voice grade 
 telephone linkages between entry points The NDC is full duplex with 
 ADCCP line protocol " 
 
 This quote has been used several times in the 
 
 AFOS Version I User Capabilities AFOS Newsletter- etc- In this 
 
 portion of the Training Guide we will delve deeper into AFOS 
 Communications and hopefully, clarify any misconception 
 
 This Topic represents a revision and update of a portion of the 
 AFOS Version I User Capabilities booklet that was distributed to NWS 
 Field Offices about July 1977- Although some of the specific details 
 may have been changed or altered, the basic, overall concepts of AFOS 
 operations are still valid 
 
 HNL 
 
 MIA(NHC) 
 
 Figure 1-1 
 AFOS National Distribution Circuit 
 
 1-1-0 
 
AFOS COMMUNICATIONS OVERVIEW 
 
 SECTION A : The National Distribution Circuit (NDC) 
 
 EXPLANATION : The NDC is a high-speed, closed-loop computer -to- computer 
 communications network (Figure 1-1) . Its simultaneous two-way 
 full-duplex communications occur between two users. 
 
 Being a computer to-computer network, data transmission over the NDC 
 adheres to the Advanced Data Communications Control Procedures (ADCCP) 
 line protocol, ADCCP line protocol is an established set of 
 procedures and standardized formats,- developed by the computer 
 industry, for high speed communications between computers over 
 telephone lines. 
 
 SECTION B : Data Transmission on the NDC 
 
 EXPLANATION : Data flows around the NDC in the following manner: An office 
 (e.g., WSFO) enters data onto the NDC via its minicomputer. All 
 information entered onto the circuit travels in both directions from 
 the entering location. 
 
 Upon receipt at a NWS office, the message header is compared to the 
 list of products that are to be stored in that computer's data base. 
 If the message is one to be stored at that location, a copy is put on 
 the magnetic disk for local retrieval , otherwise, no copy is saved. 
 The message is then passed on to the next station on the NDC. At some 
 point, approximately half way around the circuit, the arriving message 
 will already have been received from the other direction; the message 
 is then cancelled. 
 
 This capability is commonly referred to as the "store and forward" 
 concept . 
 
 1-1-1 
 
AFOS COMMUNICATIONS OVERVIEW 
 
 SECTION C ; NDC Message Format 
 
 EXPLANATION : Data transmitted on the NDC has a special format designed for 
 high-speed communications between computers. The format for all 
 information, both alphanumeric and graphic, is digital. 
 
 The digital format is contained within one or more AFOS message 
 blocks. An AFOS message block, including product and communications 
 header, cannot exceed 256 alphanumeric characters or bytes, where a 
 byte is 8 bits. 
 
 All messages for transmission on the NDC/SDC are automatically put 
 into AFOS message blocks. If the message contains more than 256 
 characters, it is transmitted as two or more message blocks. The 
 average number of blocks for a few selected product categories are 
 given below: 
 
 Product Category (NNN) Average Number Of Blocks 
 
 State Forecast (SFP) 1 
 
 Zone Forecasts (ZFP) 9 
 
 National Weather Summary (NWX) 21 
 
 Selected Cities Summary (SCS) 27 
 
 Surface Observation (SAO) 1 
 
 Terminal Forecast (FTA) 1 
 
 Tornado or Severe TSTM Watch (SEL) 3 
 
 1-1-2 
 
AFOS COMMUNICATIONS OVERVIEW 
 
 SECTION D: Message Transmission Priority 
 
 EXPLANATION: Each message transmitted on the NDC/SDC is automatically 
 assigned one of five transmission priority levels. This guarantees 
 that vital messages are transmitted ahead of routine products. 
 Priority 1 messages, such as severe weather, and Flash Flood warnings, 
 are the highest, while priority 5 messages, such as verification and 
 statistics, and administrative messages are the lowest. Most types 
 of observations will be priority 3. Routine products such as most 
 public, aviation and marine forecasts, and NMC graphics are priority 
 4. Transmission of messages with the same priority is done on a 
 "first in-first out" basis. 
 
 Certain messages will have a variable priority. When filling out the 
 message header block (discussed in 5.2.5 of Site Capabilities of the 
 AFOS Users Guide ) you will be able to enter, if circumstances warrant, 
 a higher priority level. An example of this is the Special Weather 
 Statement (SPS) category which covers the range from record high 
 temperatures to warning updates. 
 
 The time it takes to receive a routine message (priority level 4) will 
 vary from seconds to minutes depending on the weather situation, i.e., 
 the volume of higher priority traffic on the NDC. Calculations 
 indicate that, even during time of high NDC traffic, priority 1 
 messages, i.e., warnings, will take no longer than 45 seconds to be 
 received at all stations on the NDC. 
 
 The priorities assigned to each message type may be found in an 
 Appendix to the AFOS Users Guide. 
 
 1-1-3 
 
AFOS COMMUNICATIONS OVERVIEW 
 
 TABLE 1 
 RAWARC 
 OVERLAY 
 
 Service A, C, & 
 NOAA Weather Wire Service 
 NDC 
 
 100 WPM 
 100 WPM 
 
 100 WPM per circuit 
 75 WPM 
 5000 AFOS Blocks per hour 
 
 NDC Capacity =(5000 blocks/hr) (256 ch/block) = 4267 = 4300 WPM 
 
 (60 min/hr) (5 ch/word) 
 
 NDC/RAWARC = 4267 WPM 
 100 WPM 
 40 times faster than any of the pre-AFOS circuits 
 or almost 8 times as much capacity as all of the above combined 
 TTY circuits (RAWARC + Overlay + NWWS + Services A, C, & 0) . 
 
 Figure 1-2 
 
 Figure 1-3 
 
 1-1-4 
 
AFOS COMMUNICATIONS OVERVIEW 
 
 SECTION E : Message Transmission Rates 
 
 EXPLANATION : You may be wondering how AFOS (NDC) communications compare 
 with the current (Pre-AFOS) communication circuits (RAWARC Overlay, 
 Services A, C- & 0) . Using a 5000 block per hour average capacity, 
 the NDC rate figures out to around 4300 words per minute (see Table 
 1), Since RAWARC, Overlay, Services A, C, & all operate at 
 approximately 100 words per minute one can see that the NDC can carry 
 approximate 40 times as much information as any one of the current 
 circuits. 
 
 Graphic transmission over the NDC will also be much faster and more 
 timely than the current facsimile circuits. As soon as graphics 
 become available at NMC, they will be transmitted. Currently, a NWS 
 office receives approximately one graphic every 10 minutes over 
 facsimile (see your NAFAX facsimile schedule) . With the NDC, you will 
 be receiving the same graphic in less than a minute. 
 
 Theoretically, messages travel around the NDC at the rate of 2400 bits 
 per second (BPS) Converting this value to AFOS message blocks you 
 get 8400 blocks per hour. In actuality, due to delays within the 
 computers at offices on the NDC the NDC capacity has been estimated 
 at 4500 to 6000 blocks per hour (75 to 100 blocks per minute) - 
 
 (2400B/S) (3600S/HR) X 2 = 8400 BLK/HR - Theoretical Capacity 
 (256CH/BLK) (8B/CH) 
 
 (See Figure 1-2) 
 
 Actual Capacity = 4500 to 6000 BLK/HR (Figure 1 3) 
 
 SECTION F Data Entry Locations 
 
 EXPLANATION : Those locations that serve as entry points on the closed-loop 
 NDC (for their own products and those produced by other NWS offices) 
 are called nodes. 
 
 All WSFOs, NSSFC (MKC) , and the System Monitoring and Coordination 
 Center (SMCQ* are nodes on the NDC (Figure 1-1). The National 
 Meteorological Center (NMC) , National Climatological Center (NCC) , and 
 the National Hurricane Center (NHC) , are also considered as nodes due 
 to the products and services that they generate, 
 
 A more detailed discussion of the National Centers (NMC, SMCC, etc.) 
 is given in Topic 4 of this overview. 
 
 *Note: SMCC has the three character node identifier (SMC). 
 
 1-1-5 
 
AFOS COMMUNICATIONS OVERVIEW 
 TOPIC 2 STATE DISTRIBUTION CIRCUIT (SDC) 
 
 INTRODUCTION 
 
 The SDCs are identical to the NDC in communications lines- Both have 
 2400 baud full-duplex lines. However, they differ in that each SDC is 
 a spur off a parent node (eg., each SDC office is linked directly to 
 the node) - 
 
 WSFO 
 WSO • 
 RFC A 
 AFGWC □ 
 NDC=^ 
 SDC 
 
 IA(NHC) 
 
 Figure 1-4 
 
 1-2-0 
 
AFOS COMMUNICATIONS OVERVIEW 
 
 SECTION A : State Distribution Circuits (SDC) 
 
 EXPLANATION ; The communication lines that link other AFOS Computerized NWS 
 locations to the NDC are called State Distribution Circuits (SDC) (see 
 Figure 1-4) . 
 
 Offices on the SDCs transmit data to and receive their data from the 
 NDC via "Parent" nodes. 
 
 The data base storage of a station on the SDC is a subset of the 
 larger NDC data base. Any product required by a station on an SDC 
 must be stored by the "Parent" node. 
 
 SECTION B ; NWS Offices Not On The NDC/SDC 
 
 EXPLANATION : Those locations (mostly WSMOs and smaller, limited operation 
 WSOs) without an AFOS minicomputer will be spurred off an NDC node 
 (WSFO) on lines similar to the SDCs. 
 
 All data for display by these small stations will be retrieved from a 
 minicomputer equipped office. 
 
 Automated Upper Air and/or Radar (RADAP) sites will eventually be 
 connected via spur circuits to either WSFOs or WSOs. 
 
 1-2-1 
 
AFOS COMMUNICATIONS OVERVIEW 
 TOPIC 3: OTHER COMMUNICATIONS CIRCUITS INTERFACED WITH AFOS 
 
 INTRODUCTION 
 
 Currently, a variety of low speed communications circuits (e.g., NWWS, 
 TWX, Overlay, Fire Weather, etc.) exist at WSFO, WSOs, and RFCs, Most 
 of these circuits will continue after AFOS implementation; however , 
 they must be linked to the AFOS communications network. The AFOS 
 communications subsystem at each NWS site will handle the reception 
 and dissemination of messages to users over these low speed networks. 
 
 To date, detailed plans for the operation of only NWWS have been 
 developed. When plans for the other low speed circuits are finalized, 
 a more complete explanation of their functions and operations will be 
 prepared . 
 
 "Gateway", the interface of the AFOS network with other agencies and 
 with weather service offices not yet on AFOS, is also briefly 
 outlined. 
 
 1-3-0 
 
AFOS COMMUNICATIONS OVERVIEW 
 
 SECTION A : NOAA Weather Wire Service (NWWS) 
 
 EXPLANATION ; All state NWWS circuits will be driven by WSFOs when the 
 NDC/SDCs are completed. WSOs that now input data on NWWS will no 
 longer do so after AFOS is operational at the station, except those 
 that serve as NWWS backup sites. 
 
 The WSFO (or backup WSO) which is driving a NOAA Weather Wire Circuit 
 will have the following capabilities: 
 
 (1) Automatic transmission of all routine NWWS products on a 
 scheduled basis and immediate insertion of non-routine emergency 
 messages. 
 
 (2) Automatic monitoring of the NWWS schedule and generation of an 
 alert message for any scheduled products not ready for 
 transmission 5 minutes prior to its scheduled time. 
 
 (3) Ability to free transmission time in emergency situations by 
 deleting (on a temporary basis) any product from the NWWS 
 schedule . 
 
 (4) Ability to locally create and "permanently" modify the 
 schedule (s) of products to be transmitted on NWWS. 
 
 (5) Automatic receipt and storage in the local data base of all NWWS 
 message traffic originated by outside users. The WSFO operator 
 can retrieve the message, assign the proper AFOS header, and 
 transmit it over the NDC/SDC. 
 
 (6) Ability to manually select any message to be transmitted from 
 the local station onto NWWS. 
 
 (7) Ability to list all products that have been transmitted over 
 NWWS during the past hour. 
 
 SECTION B : The Overlay Circuits 
 
 EXPLANATION : The overlay circuits at WSFOs will gradually be phased out 
 during AFOS implementation, As a WSFO goes AFOS, the overlay circuits 
 are removed. Upon completion of AFOS implementation in the early 
 1980' s, there will be no overlay circuits. 
 
 In the interim, however, products generated at "AFOS"-ized WSFOs will 
 have to be relayed to the overlay circuits at WSFOs not yet converted 
 to AFOS. To accomplish this, the System Monitoring and Coordination 
 Center has been assigned the task of handling the data relaying and 
 switching functions between the overlay circuits and the AFOS network. 
 
 1-3-1 
 
AFOS COMMUNICATIONS OVERVIEW 
 
 SECTION C The "Gateway" Operation f 
 
 EXPLANATION : The interface of the AFOS communications network with non NWS 
 (eg., FAA) communication networks and the NWS offices not yet on AFOS 
 is provided by what is called a "Gateway" operation at Suitland MD. 
 
 Conversion of communication message headers and any necessary data 
 reformatting is handled at the "Gateway" so that data can be 
 transferred in and out of the AFOS system 
 
 1-3-2 
 
AFOS COMMUNICATIONS OVERVIEW 
 TOPIC 4: NATIONAL CENTERS INTERFACED WITH AFQS 
 
 INTRODUCTION 
 
 Essential to overall operations of the NWS are the products and 
 services provided by the National Centers. 
 
 The National Meteorological Center (NMC) generates and disseminates 
 the guidance products required for forecast formulation at WSFOs, 
 WSOs, and RFCs. 
 
 The National Climate Center (NCC) serves as the archival function of 
 the NWS and services user request for climatological data. 
 
 The National Hurricane Center (NHC) and National Servere Storms 
 Forecast Center (NSSFC) provide specialized services to forecast 
 offices; their guidance products and expertise aid NWS forecast 
 offices in issuing forecasts, advisories, warnings, etc., for 
 hurricanes and severe local storms. 
 
 The Air Force Global Weather Center (AFGWC) will act as backup to NMC 
 for input of products on the NDC. 
 
 With the advent of AFOS, several new centers have emerged with 
 
 specialized functions. Two of these new centers are the Systems 
 
 Monitoring and Coordination Center (SMCC) and the Centralized Archival 
 System (CAS) . 
 
 The various National Centers' communication links to the NDC/SDC 
 network are not only important to, but essential for overall AFOS 
 communications. In the following topic, each individual National 
 Center's interfaced with the NDC is described and their main AFOS 
 related functions are discussed. 
 
 1-4-1 
 
AFOS COMMUNICATIONS OVERVIEW 
 
 SECTION A : The Systems Monitoring and Coordination Center (SMCC) 
 
 EXPLANATION : The Systems Monitoring and Coordination Center (SMC/NMC node) 
 is a new facility (co-located with NMC in Suitland, MD) that has been 
 established for the support of AFOS communications. As the NDC has 
 been called "The Backbone Communications Circuit for the AFOS System"; 
 the SMCC is the nerve center or "Brains" of AFOS. 
 
 The functions of the SMCC are briefly outlined below: 
 
 (1) Maintain cognizance over the operational integrity of the AFOS 
 network. This will be accomplished by the SMCC receiving (via 
 the NDC) both routine and special status reports from all AFOS 
 offices. 
 
 (2) Provide communications backup to AFOS sites. This backup will 
 be provided by dial-up lines to/from the SMCC. Communications 
 backup is provided for the following types of failures: 
 
 a) complete outage of NDC link (s) 
 
 b) failure of an NDC (WSFO) computer system 
 
 c) failure of an SDC (WSFO or RFC) computer system 
 
 d) failure of an SDC line 
 
 e) failure of high speed (2400 bps) spur line to an automated 
 collection site (WSMO, ADAS, RADAP) . 
 
 (3) Provide data base replenishment to those AFOS sites which have 
 suffered computer failures. This replenishment will occur 
 after the affected computer system is restored to operation. 
 
 (4) Provide the interface to the 360/40 computer complex at NMC 
 via a 4800 bps full-duplex link. 
 
 (5) Support a high speed (4800 bps) full-duplex link to the 
 National Climatic Center (NCC) of NOAA's EDIS (Environmental 
 Data Information Service) so that they may receive all NWS 
 originated data needed to accomplish their mission. 
 
 (6) Provide data interface to the NCC's Centralized Archival 
 System (CAS) . The CAS will store certain NDC data for 5 years 
 to satisfy data retention requirements. 
 
 continued 
 
 1-4-2 
 
AFOS COMMUNICATIONS OVERVIEW 
 
 (7) Serve as a central distribution point for releases of 
 new/modified AFOS software. New software will be sent to all 
 field offices from the SMCC via the NDC. 
 
 (8) Provide the data exchange interface between AFOS and NWS 
 Management information systems maintained at NWS headquarters. 
 
 (9) Monitor all NDC traffic to insure that key scheduled NWS data 
 has been transmitted. 
 
 (10) Provide the interface between the NDC and the regional overlay 
 circuits. 
 
 (11) Answer, in real-time, all field office requests for NDC data 
 stored at SMCC (approximately 30 days worth of NDC traffic) . 
 
 1-4-3 
 
PHL 
 
 [PEC 
 
 [5/nrc} 
 
 4800 BPS 
 
 SPUR 
 
 ni/DC 
 
 OTHER 
 AGENCIES 
 
 Figure 1-5 
 
 1-4-4 
 
AFOS COMMUNICATIONS OVERVIEW 
 
 SECTION B : Systems Monitoring and Coordination Center, National 
 Meteorological Center, the National Climatological Center Network 
 
 EXPLANATION : The Systems Monitoring and Coordination Center (SMCC) , 
 National Meteorological Center (NMC) , and National Climatological 
 Center (NCC) are linked as shown in Figure 1-5. 
 
 SECTION C : National Hurricane Center (NHC) 
 
 EXPLANATION : The National Hurricane Centrer (NHC) link to the NDC is 
 through WSFO Miami (MIA). NHC is co-located with MIA and will, 
 therefore , enter its products onto the NDC via the MIA node. 
 
 NHC's operational functions will remain essentially the same under 
 AFOS. 
 
 SECTION D : National Severe Storms Forecast Center (NSSFC) 
 
 EXPLANATION : The National Severe Storms Forecast Center (NSSFC) , located 
 in Kansas City, MO, is a node on the NDC. The AFOS three letter NDC 
 node designator for NSSFC is MKC 
 
 The operational functions of NSSFC will change very little with AFOS 
 There will be some minor changes in the formatting of SELS products 
 For example, it is envisioned that SELS watches will include 
 appropriate area delineators to allow for selectively 
 alarming/alerting the affected field offices. 
 
 SECTION E : Air Force Global Weather Central (AFGWC) . 
 
 EXPLANATION : The Air Weather Service (AWS) has the responsibility of 
 providing backup support for the NWS when NMC is unabale to transmit 
 on AFOS. 
 
 The responsibility for initiating backup support will be with SMCC. 
 AFGWC, located at Offutt Air Force Base- NB, will then provide 
 substitute charts to be distributed via AFOS until NMC is able to 
 resume operation. AFGWC is an SDC spur linked to WSFO Omaha (OMA) and 
 will be equipped with a WSO configuration with considerably larger 
 peripheral storage 
 
 1-4-5 
 
i 
 
CHAPTER 2 
 EQUIPMENT 
 
 2-0-1 
 
AFOS EQUIPMENT 
 INTRODUCTION 
 
 The AFOS equipment at a typical office can be divided into three 
 categories. This chapter discusses each equipment category in the 
 following order: 
 
 OPERATOR'S CONSOLE - TOPIC 1 
 
 COMMUNICATIONS/COMPUTER MODULE - TOPIC 2 
 
 PRINTER/PLOTTER AND KEYBOARD/PRINTER - TOPIC 3 
 
 2-0-3 
 
AFOS EQUIPMENT 
 TOPIC 1: OPERATOR'S CONSOLE 
 INTRODUCTION 
 
 An operator will perform his/her office duties with the aid of two 
 similar looking, but different functioning modules. 
 
 One module will handle only alphanumeric data and is called an 
 Alphanumeric Display Module or an ADM (Section A) . 
 
 The other type of module has a double function of alphanumeric data 
 manipulation and graphic display. This module is referred to as a 
 Graphic Display Module or a GDM (Section C) . 
 
 The numbers of modules at an office will vary according to the needs 
 of the office. These modules are grouped together to form a console. 
 
 All modules which comprise a console are controlled by the operator 
 through a keyboard (Section B) . All keyboards are attached to ADMs, 
 but not all ADMs will have a keyboard. 
 
 An Operator's Console can vary from one ADM with an attached keyboard 
 to a maximum of four modules consisting of both ADMs and GDMs 
 combined . 
 
 Figure 2-1 shows one possible grouping of modules comprising an 
 Operator's Console- The figure shows an ADM with a keyboard and a 
 GDM. 
 
 The material that follows discusses in greater detail each type of 
 module 
 
 GDM CRT 
 
 ADM CRT 
 
 Figure 2-1 
 Operator's Console 
 
 2-1-0 
 
AFOS EQUIPMENT 
 
 SECTION A : Alphanumeric Display Module (ADM) 
 
 E XPLANATION : The ADM is used as a means of alphanumeric data input and/or 
 display for normal AFOS system operation. 
 
 All ADMs have a Cathode Ray Tube (CRT) that is similar to a television 
 screen. Directly below the CRT is a hinged door (Figure 2-1), which 
 covers the control knobs. Figure 2-2 shows these controls with the 
 door in the open position, 
 
 
 Figure 2-2 
 ADM CRT Controls 
 
 The Control Functions are: 
 
 Power Switch ON/OFF switch for power supply to ADM 
 
 Brightness Adjusts brightness of CRT 
 
 Contrast Adjusts light/dark ratio of screen 
 
 Volume Adjusts loudness of end of line signal in the CRT 
 
 continued 
 
 2-1-1 
 
MO/DAY/YEAR HOUR:NINUTES 
 COMMAND 
 
 (LINE 24) MANUAL PAGE 01 
 
 (LINE 25) (COMPUTER RESPONSE MESSAGE) 
 
 Figure 2-3 
 ADM CRT 
 
 2-1-2 
 
AFOS EQUIPMENT 
 
 The ADM CRT displays only alphanumeric data and products 
 These are the features of a CRT: 
 
 1) A 15 inch (38.1 cm.) diagonal black and white screen capable of 
 displaying 25 lines of data with 80 characters/line. 
 
 2) A "cursor" shown as a flickering segment of light "a" that 
 identifies the location of next alphanumeric character to be typed. 
 
 3) Lines 1 through 23 are used for message composition and displayed 
 data. 
 
 4) Line 24 - left to right: 
 
 a) Date - automatically displays month/day /year . 
 
 b) Slave Clock - displays time of day accurately to the 
 nearest minute; updated automatically by SMCC every 30 
 minutes . 
 
 c) Manual word automatically displayed when operator has 
 control of the screen; replaced by another word or phrase 
 when minicomputer has control of CRT. 
 
 d) Page Number - indicates page number of data displayed 
 on screen; "PAGE 01" shown when CRT is idle 
 
 5) Line 25 - left to right: 
 
 a) Operator command messages. 
 
 b) Minicomputer response to these input commands. 
 
 6) End of Line Signal - a brief beep is sounded when the 71st 
 character of the 80 character line is typed for lines 1 through 23. 
 
 7) Tab Stops - automatic tab stops locate the cursor at the start of a 
 string of characters or data which may be typed in when the operator 
 is completing a preformatted text. 
 
 The power switch for the entire Operator Console is located on the 
 left front side of the ADM, between the CRT and keyboard (Figure 2 1). 
 A light above the switch glows when power is on. 
 
 2-1-3 
 
AFOS EQUIPMENT 
 
 SECTION B: ADM Keyboard 
 
 EXPLANATION : The operator interface with the AFOS software (programs) and 
 with the display modules is done through the ADM keyboard. 
 
 The keyboard is essentially a standard typewriter with special 
 function keys (Group 1). (Figure 2-4 and 2-5), 
 
 AUDIO 
 ALARM 
 CLEAR 
 
 DISPLAY SELECT 
 
 O 1 O 2 O 3 IIO « 
 
 W CCMP 
 
 gTTRTTJ 
 
 accum ! 
 
 PBtV LATER 
 
 vERSlOr. VERSION 
 
 EDLHSLI 
 
 LI>AS£ 
 
 E\0 
 
 DISPLAV 
 
 tPASt 
 EK>0 
 LINf 
 
 hk 
 
 ^SHHHHHQElDHQmiTJlflE 
 
 ABC 
 
 ^HEEEJEI 
 
 EEIJJUJDM QBE 
 
 imSHQLUHHmCDmEI] 
 
 o 
 
 IN5RT 
 
 CHAR 
 
 o 
 
 >AGt 
 
 DEL 
 
 CHAR 
 
 
 
 
 iNSRT 
 UNf 
 
 t 
 
 OCL 
 LINE 
 
 
 
 
 *• 
 
 KOMI 
 
 -*• 
 
 O- LlCHTEOKiV 
 
 Figure 2-4 
 ADM Keyboard 
 
 AUDIO 
 ALARM 
 CLEAR 
 
 
 OISPLAY SELECT 
 
 
 
 0,| 
 
 O 2 ||o 3 |o 
 
 . I 
 
 'I 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 o viC 
 
 u COVP 
 
 OVRLV 
 
 
 
 ACC'IM 
 
 
 
 PRINT llv.EMORV 
 
 EPASt 
 
 END 
 
 DISPLAY 
 
 ERASE 
 END 
 I'M 
 
 PREV 
 PACE 
 
 P^CE || | ||o£NTER 
 
 
 |- l 
 
 loAC- 
 
 [tab 
 
 IB 
 
 CTRL 
 
 
 
 
 ESSBmCDIIlCDCDQCDLIlLII 
 EEEBEEBEEEEDQ] 
 
 lEEiEaQmHEBmmmci 
 
 IHQHHHHQSmmCrD 
 
 L RETURN 
 
 Figure 2-5 
 Standard Keyboard and 
 Groups of Special Function Keys 
 
 continued 
 
 ABC 
 
 
 
 
 :NSRT 
 CHAP 
 
 o 
 
 »AC( 
 
 « nit 
 
 DEL 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 iNSRT 
 
 t 
 
 OEL 
 
 LI'lE 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 » 
 
 lOUI 
 
 ^ 
 
 
 
 J_ 
 
 
 
 2-1-4 
 
AFOS EQUIPMENT 
 
 Group 2 consists of the top two rows (Figure 2 6). These keys control 
 the alarm, the selection of display and/or the mode of operation 
 
 
 
 
 
 □ ISPLAY SELECT 
 
 
 
 | A'JO'O 1 
 
 DISMAY 
 CL6A3 
 
 
 O 
 
 , 1| 2 \L , IL . 1 
 
 nn 
 
 
 1 ||0 2 J 
 
 - -ir i 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 1 »LA»*l 
 
 
 oas| 
 
 1«J 
 
 i v6HS!0r 
 
 | LATE9 
 |V;RSlO". 
 
 COMM 
 5*vCm 
 
 Figure 2-6 
 (Group 2) 
 Keys controlling the alarm, selection 
 of display, and mode of operation 
 
 Keys in Group 2 have the following functions 
 
 Used to turn off the audio alarm if product is not going to be 
 displayed immediately. 
 
 ALARM 
 
 Key light flashed when alarm or alert message is received. 
 Message is displayed by striking key. Striking key will also 
 clear audio alarm as it is activated. 
 
 DISPLAY 
 CLEAR 
 
 Clears the selected display. 
 
 DISPLAY SELECT 
 
 o 
 
 o 
 
 o 
 
 o 
 
 The display select consists of four keys They are used to select one 
 of the available display screens. 
 
 Each key has an internal light such that only the last key despressed 
 is lighted and its corresponding display is the only one controlled by 
 the operator until another selection is made. Whenever, a new display 
 is selected, all other display controls remain in their previous 
 selected modes. 
 
 continued 
 
 2-1-5 
 

 A'JDiO 
 ALARM 
 
 CLEAR 
 
 ALARM 
 
 DISPLAY SELECT 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 w EDEEElIEiI C3U3 
 
 CO'.'M 
 SWCM 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 VESSION VERSION 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 — ^Iv |3v H K« KSj| : ~]l 0E " TER 
 
 
 ABC 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 TAB 
 
 6 * C V ESC 
 
 TAB 
 
 CTRl 
 
 mmmmmEmmmammm 
 □□□□□□□□□□mm 
 
 NEWLINE 
 
 'JSRT 
 
 t 
 
 DEL 
 LINE 
 
 _ HETuRN 
 
 £ 
 
 
 ~^| 
 
 ^□□□□□□□EECDLTILI] 
 
 Out 
 
 
 _<_ 
 
 
 -ll'll-ll-MI-ll-ll-ll.'llrllfll- 1 
 
 
 
 SPACE 
 
 
 
 
 Figure 2-5 
 
 
 A'jO'O 
 
 ALARM 
 CLEAa 
 
 
 
 
 □ ISPLAY SELECT 
 
 
 
 DISPLAY 
 CLEAR 
 
 
 1 
 
 O 2 
 
 O 3 
 
 O 
 
 4 
 
 
 Figure 2-6 
 
 T3 
 
 
 LATER 
 RSlO\ 
 
 COM VI 
 SWCH 
 
 2-1-6 
 
AFOS EQUIPMENT 
 
 Not assigned. 
 
 Not assigned. 
 
 Used to place the selected display in message composition 
 mode., The key lights when this mode is activated. 
 
 Used to enter the selected display into the accumulate/overlay 
 mode. The key lights when this mode is activated. 
 
 Note: These modes are deactivated by depressing the key a second 
 time. 
 
 PREV 
 VERSION 
 
 Used to display a previous version of the currently displayed 
 product. 
 
 LATER 
 VERSION 
 
 Used to display a later version of the currently displayed 
 product . 
 
 Used during the backup configuration for selection of the dial 
 up network of dedicated lines. 
 
 continued 
 
 2-1-7 
 
if 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 DISPLAY SELECT 
 
 
 
 
 
 AJOiO 
 
 
 OlS'lAY 
 CLEAR 
 
 
 EDEDEDE3 □□ 
 
 
 
 1 ALAPV 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 AlARV 
 
 
 VSG 
 
 OVflLV 
 
 
 PAEV LATlfl 
 v£RSiO*- VERSION 
 
 
 COI.-M 
 SWCH 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 ]□[ 
 
 mmmmmLnmmmammm 
 □□□□□□□□□□mm 
 
 ^□HEEEBEEEICDLTn 
 
 ISCDHElHQHmmmE 
 
 Figure 2-5 
 
 1" W H 
 
 ABC 
 
 O 
 
 O 
 
 
 SiRT 
 
 PACf 
 
 DEL 
 
 •jSRT 
 
 t 
 
 net 
 
 LINE 
 
 *■ 
 
 lOM| 
 
 •* 
 
 
 LD 
 
 2-1-8 
 
AFOS EQUIPMENT 
 
 ERASE 
 .1EMORY 
 
 ERASE 
 ENO 
 ISPLAV 
 
 ErliiE 
 END 
 
 PREv 
 PAGE 
 
 IDDB 
 
 Figure 2-7 
 v (Group 3) 
 
 The keys in Group 3 have a variety of functions- 
 
 Used to make a hard copy on the printer/plotter module of the 
 data displayed on the ADM. 
 
 Used to erase displayed data as well as stored data waiting to 
 be displayed (the command line is not erased) 
 
 ERASE 
 
 END 
 
 DISPLAY 
 
 Used to erase all data from the cursor position to the end of 
 the display. 
 
 Used to erase all data from the cursor position to the end of 
 the line. 
 
 PREV 
 PAGE 
 
 NEXT 
 PAGE 
 
 SCROLL 
 DOWN 
 
 Used to retrieve the previous page of the displayed product 
 
 Used to retrieve the next page of the displayed product 
 
 Not assigned, 
 
 Not assigned 
 
 Used to enter a request or initiate a command. 
 
 2-1-9 
 
AUDIO 
 ALAPV 
 CLEAR 
 
 
 
 
 DISPLAY SELECT 
 
 
 
 OIS'IAV 
 CLEAR 
 
 
 1 
 
 1FDF3 
 
 l° 
 
 | 
 
 
 
 w rn:- 
 
 EPASt E r *ASE 
 
 | | s.CMORV C] i S o t A v| !.■!{ | PAGE PAGE 
 
 PflEV NEXT 
 
 mmmcomcEmmmamas 
 
 □□□□□□□□HEELD 
 
 ilBEHHEHHEnEmEILI] 
 
 Figure 2-5 
 
 ABC 
 
 O 
 
 .N5BT 
 
 O 
 
 DEL 
 
 
 
 
 ''mm 
 
 t 
 
 r>CL 
 LIVE 
 
 *• 
 
 IOMI 
 
 ■» 
 
 
 J_ 
 
 
 2-1-10 
 
AFOS EQUIPMENT 
 
 1 
 
 ABC 
 
 
 
 O 
 
 :N5BT 
 
 o 
 
 C'ft 
 
 ,-haO 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 iNSftT 
 
 LINC 
 
 ♦ 
 
 OIL 
 
 like 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 *- 
 
 - 
 
 ■ OMf 
 
 •♦ 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 ♦ 
 
 
 Figure 2-8 
 
 (Group 4) 
 
 Keys used to Edit Messages Displayed on ADM 
 
 Group 4 is composed of the group of 10 keys on the right side of the 
 keyboard (Figure 2-8). In general, these keys are used to move the 
 cursor to the desired locations in the displayed text or to make 
 physical changes in the text at the position of the cursor. 
 
 Used to move the cursor to the upper lefthand position on the 
 display. 
 
 t 
 
 B B 
 E 
 
 Used to move the cursor in the direction indicated. 
 
 The next four keys operate only in Message Composition mode. 
 
 Used to move data one character to the right leaving a space 
 at the cursor position for the insertion of a character. 
 Deactivated by pressing a second time. 
 
 Used to delete a character at the cursor position and move all 
 data to the right of the cursor position one position to the 
 left. 
 
 continued 
 
 2-1-11 
 

 I«.l 
 
 p 
 
 1 TAB 
 
 IB 
 
 CTRL 
 
 
 
 
 ABC 
 
 
 O 
 
 ■NSRT 
 
 o 
 
 F»Cf 
 ff.lt 
 
 OtL 
 
 qhah 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 r.SBT 
 LINC 
 
 ♦ 
 
 OIL 
 
 LIKE 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 #- 
 
 lOMf 
 
 -♦ 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 V 
 
 
 Figure 2-8 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 DISPLAY SELECT 
 
 
 
 
 
 A'JOiO 
 ALARV 
 
 
 DISPLAY 
 CLEAR 
 
 
 EDEDE3EI1 LZO 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 AlABV 
 
 
 v cov 
 
 OVRLV 
 
 1 PR€V LAIIR 
 
 |v£flSlO* VERSION 
 
 COMM 
 
 SWCH 
 
 
 |-NT J|™*J y 
 
 EPASt 
 
 two 
 
 DISPLAY 
 
 ERASE 
 
 l".E 
 
 PREv 
 PACE 
 
 ss || nr ]□ 
 
 
 
 
 smmsmmmraiiGiiELi] 
 
 BBHEEEHEQEELI] 
 
 HiElElEJHElHEIDammLI] 
 ZEDBBBBEBBLIEmEB 
 
 Figure 2-5 
 
 ABC 
 
 O 
 
 ;NSRT 
 
 
 
 ?AC( 
 
 'f>l I 
 
 DEL 
 
 
 
 
 ■ •ISRT 
 1. INC 
 
 t 
 
 OCL 
 LINE 
 
 
 
 
 «■ 
 
 IOMI 
 
 * 
 
 
 T 
 
 
 
 
 
 2-1-12 
 
AFOS EQUIPMENT 
 
 Places character insert and delete keys on a page basis rather 
 than a line basis. As characters (including spaces) are 
 inserted, those characters to the right of the cursor are 
 moved one position to the right. Deactivated by pressing a 
 second time. 
 
 INSERT 
 LINE 
 
 Used to move data down one line for insertion of a new line. 
 The cursor must first be positioned on the line to be moved 
 and space must be available on the page for the additional 
 line. Data on the lines above the cursor are not affected. 
 
 Used to delete the line of data on which the cursor 
 positioned and to move the remaining data up one line. 
 
 is 
 
 Figure 2-9 
 (Group 5) 
 Tab, Escape, and Control 
 
 
 TAB 
 
 
 
 BACK 
 TAB 
 
 ESC 
 
 
 
 CTRL 
 
 
 Group 5 consists of Tab keys and keys used to abort certain programs. 
 
 TAB 
 
 BACK 
 TAB 
 
 Used to advance or return the cursor to predetermined position 
 on the display screen. 
 
 ESC 
 
 Not assigned 
 
 CTRL 
 
 Used in connection with abort commands, 
 while striking the "A" key. 
 
 This key is held down 
 
 continued 
 
 2-1-13 
 

 
 
 
 
 
 DISPLAY SELECT 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 AJDiO 
 AlARV 
 CLE »0 
 
 
 OIS'IAV 
 
 CUAR 
 
 
 O 1 | 
 
 O 2 |[o 3 ||0 
 
 •i 
 
 ii 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 Al ARV 
 
 
 "S 
 
 C'm 
 
 
 version 
 
 LATER 
 VERSION 
 
 
 CO'.'M 
 
 S*CM 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 EPASL t r 'ASE 
 
 END CMJ 
 
 I'M 
 
 
 
 
 TAB 
 
 
 3ACv 
 TA8 
 
 ESC 
 
 
 
 CTWt. 
 
 
 
 
 
 mmmmmsmmmacDsm 
 
 S3EJEBEIEIEJE1E1E1E3131I] 
 
 EDHEEHEEHEKmCE] 
 
 Figure 2-5 
 
 ABC 
 
 
 O 
 
 .SSRT 
 
 o 
 
 PAG! 
 
 OEL 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 |>J5RT 
 
 t 
 
 DEL 
 LINE 
 
 
 ^ 
 
 ' " 
 
 •» 
 
 
 
 1 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 2-1-14 
 
AFOS EQUIPMENT 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 NEW LINE 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 DEL 
 
 tUB 
 JUT 
 
 RETURN 
 
 
 
 F 
 ( 
 
 
 
 Figure 2-10 
 
 (Group 6) 
 
 Edit Text Keys 
 
 Group 6 keys are discussed below. 
 
 NEW LINE 
 
 
 
 DEL 
 
 
 
 
 1 RETURN 
 
 
 
 RUB 
 OUT 
 
 
 Used in edit mode to move cursor to start of next paragraph; 
 automatically gives two line feeds. 
 
 Used to replace the character to the left of the cursor with a 
 dash. 
 
 Used to move the cursor to the beginning of the line it is 
 presently on. 
 
 Used to delete the character just left of the cursor , 
 
 2-1-15 
 
GDM CRT 
 
 ADM CRT 
 
 Figure 2-1 
 
 25 
 
 LINES 
 
 17 INCHES 
 (43.2CM) 
 
 PAGE 01 r 
 
 BLINKING CURSOR 
 
 80 CHARACTERS/LINE 
 
 Figure 2-11 
 GDM CRT 
 
 2-1-16 
 
AFOS EQUIPMENT 
 
 SE CTION C t The Graphic Display Module 
 
 EXPLANATION: The GDM consists of: a CRT for displaying of alphanumeric 
 data and graphics, either separately or overlaid; CRT control knobs; 
 and a Display Control Panel. 
 
 The Major features of the CRT are. 
 
 1) A 17 inch (43 2 cm.) diagonal black and white screen, capable of 
 displaying 25 lines of alphanumeric data with 80 characters/line or a 
 full screen graphic (s) = 
 
 2) A "cursor" shown as a flickering segment of light "=" that locates 
 the next alphanumeric character or a point on a graphic. 
 
 3) A legend is displayed on lower left or right corner of screen 
 whenever graphics are shown 
 
 4) Magnification of displayed image. 
 
 5) Movable field allows off centering of a graphic (s). 
 
 6) Performs like a 525 line TV picture screen (future application for 
 displaying satellite pictures) . 
 
 continued 
 
 2-1-17 
 
ADM CRT 
 
 GDM CRT 
 
 Figure 2-1 
 
 (S) (6) P0WER 
 
 BRIGHTNESS CONTRAST H. PHASE ~ STANDBY HEIGHT V. CENTER FOCUS 0FF_^ ^ON 
 
 W I U I n * 
 
 A A I r* 
 
 H.HOLD 
 ® 
 
 CBNffflC 
 
 V.HOLD 
 ® 
 
 Figure 2-12 
 CRT Controls 
 
 2-1-18 
 
AFOS EQUIPMEISTT 
 
 The CRT controls (Figure 2-1) are found behind a hinged door directly 
 below the screen Figure 2-12 depicts these controls with the door in 
 the open position. 
 
 CONTROLS 
 Brightness 
 Contrast 
 Horizontal Phase 
 Width 
 
 Horizontal Hold 
 
 Mode (3-position) 
 Switch 
 
 Vertical Hold 
 
 Height 
 
 Vertical Center 
 
 Focus 
 
 Power 
 
 FUNCTION 
 
 Adjusts brightness of CRT 
 
 Adjusts the light/dark ratio of the CRT 
 
 Moves the picture in a horizontal direction 
 
 Moves width of picture within a predefined 
 range 
 
 Used to stabilize CRT picture if it becomes 
 misaligned in a horizontal direction 
 
 Selects types of input into the CRT 
 
 "A" position; input high resolution (1024 x 
 768 pixels) picture from Raster Scan 
 Generator. 
 
 "B" position; input is a standard 525 line 
 TV video picture 
 
 "Stand By" position, no input and screen 
 will be blank 
 
 Used to stabilize the CRT picture if it 
 becomes misaligned in the vertical 
 direction. 
 
 Adjusts the height of the picture within a 
 predefined range. 
 
 Centers the picture along vertical axis. 
 
 Adjusts the clarity of the picture 
 
 Controls the AC power to the GEM. 
 
 continued 
 
 2-1-19 
 
ADM CRT 
 
 GDM CRT 
 
 igure 2-1 
 
 DISPLAY GEN ON 
 
 o 
 
 r 
 
 LEGEND 
 
 V- m 
 
 i^= 
 
 OVERLAY 1 MED 
 
 2£E 
 
 OVERLAY 2 MED 
 
 OVERLAY 3 
 
 OFF SOLID 
 
 ■ DASH DOT ■ (f | 
 
 r-T-n.JW^ 
 
 CURSOR ^fiOM 
 INTENSITY 
 v w .ED 
 
 u 
 
 lcw^hi 
 
 CURSOR 
 
 o:i 
 
 C3 CJ«:> 
 
 25:1 
 
 16:1 
 
 9:1 
 
 ""N 
 
 CURSOR POSITION 
 
 ENTER 
 C'JRSOR 
 
 1:1 
 
 TRANSLATE 
 
 Figure 2-13 
 Display Control Panel 
 
 2-1-20 
 
AFOS EQUIPMENT 
 
 The third area of the GDM is the Display Control Panel (Figure 2-1). 
 The controls are used to manipulate displayed graphics. Figure 2-13 
 shows the control panel and is followed by a discussion of each 
 feature on the panel - 
 
 CONTROL 
 Display Gen On 
 
 Legend 
 
 Overlay 1 (2 or 3) 
 
 Cursor Intensity 
 Cursor On 
 Enter Cursor 
 Zoom 
 
 Translate 
 
 Cursor Position 
 
 FUNCTION 
 
 Light glows when graphic generator is 
 operating; depress light button briefly to 
 clear screen of a graphic ("push to reset") 
 that won't clear by normal means 
 
 Displays legend on right or left corner 
 screen or removes legend from the screen 
 
 of 
 
 TEXTURE BUTTONS - Allows each of three 
 graphic fields to be shown in solid, dashed, 
 or dotted contours. "OFF" surpr esses the 
 individual graphic from the screen 
 
 INTENSITY KNOBS - Brightens or darkens 
 contours for each of 3 graphic fields 
 
 Varies brightness of cursor 
 
 Turns cursor on or off 
 
 Future application 
 
 Area ratios are 1:1. 4:1. 9:1. 16: l f and 
 25:1 (e.g., n=m, where m=original size of 
 graphic, n=number of times displayed 
 graphic (s) enlarged from the original 
 graphic size) 
 
 Amount of data displayed increases with in- 
 crease in area ratio through ratio 16:1; 
 ratio 25:1 displays same amount of data as 
 the 16:1 ratio 
 
 Shifts graphic automatically 
 cursor on the screen. 
 
 to center 
 
 Trackball for manual positioning of 
 to any point on the screen 
 
 cursor 
 
 2-1-21 
 
AFOS EQUIPMENT 
 TOPIC 2 COMMUNICATIONS/COMPUTER MODULE (CCM) 
 
 INTRODUCTION 
 
 The control units for the AFOS system are housed in a metal rack (s) . 
 A rack contains: a minicomputer (Section A); communications 
 equipment (Section B) ; data stored disks and diskettes (Sections C 
 and D) ; backup switches for degraded mode of operation (Section E) ; 
 and power supply units (Sections B and F) This rack (s) is called the 
 Communications/ Computer Module (CCM) . One rack is needed for each 
 minicomputer an office has. 
 
 The console operator and the Electronics Technician use the CCM for 
 recognition of system failures (Chapter 4) and handling the disk(s) 
 and/ or diskettes (Sections C and D) . 
 
 Figure 2-14 shows the CCM. Each component is discussed in the 
 following material 
 
 TEST SET- 
 AF/DC PATCH r 
 
 DTCA 
 EIA PATCH 
 
 GDM SWITCH. 
 
 REAR 
 
 MINICOMPUTER 
 (DPCK) 
 
 BLANK 
 
 (RES FOR DPCM EXP) 
 
 MINICOMPUTER(DPCM) 
 MULTIPLEXER EXP 
 
 KIHICOMPUTER(OCM) 
 
 MULTIPLEXER EXP 
 
 MINICOMPUTER(DPCM-). 
 DISK DRIVE 
 
 Jo 
 
 llltllimnil»!HH>tMllllUlllllHI)ll 
 
 I/O PANEL REAR 
 
 EJ ::: : :: :: ;• : 
 fcis .::: : :: :; :: :. ♦ 
 
 >, p 9 9 9ft? 
 
 >«-& 
 
 s *- 
 
 IIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIHIIllllHIKUII 
 
 fiSQ3 CMID^ 
 
 1/0 PANEL REAR 
 
 Figure 2-14 
 CCM 
 
 -DTCA EXP 
 
 , EIA SW*TCH(DISPl.) 
 EIA SWITCHES (COMM.) 
 
 .MINICOMPUTER 
 (DCM) 
 
 DISKETTE( FLOPPY 
 DRIVE 
 . WRITING SHELF 
 
 -MINICOMPUTER(DPCM) 
 MULTIPLEXER 
 
 .MINICOMPUTER(DCM) 
 MULTIPLEXER 
 
 .MINICOMPUTER(DCM) 
 DISK DRIVE 
 
 ACPC 
 
 S - INDICATES SLIDE 
 MOUNTING 
 
 2-2-0 
 
AFOS EQUIPMENT 
 
 SECTION A: The S/230 Eclipse Minicomputer 
 
 E XPLANATION : The functions of the switches located on the front of the 
 computer are discussed. Refer to Figure 2-14 for location of the 
 minicomputer in the CCM. 
 
 Figure 2-15 
 Eclipse Computer Console 
 
 CONSOLE SWITCHES 
 
 FUNCTION 
 
 POWER SWITCH 
 
 ADDRESS COMPARE SWITCH 
 
 Controls power to Eclipse 
 minicomputer. Renders other console 
 switches inoperable when switch is in 
 LOCK position . Key can be removed in 
 LOCK position. 
 
 Used only when making program changes. 
 Will not be used by operators. 
 
 DATA SWITCHES 
 
 These are located along the bottom 
 the console. 
 
 of 
 
 First five and last five are function 
 switches. Middle 16 are address, 
 instruction, and data entry switches, 
 
 AFOS operators will use these switches to boot or reboot the system 
 when program or hardware problems have caused a system failure. 
 Procedures for these operations will be described in later chapter of 
 this Training Guide. 
 
 2-2-1 
 
TEST SET- 
 AF/DC PATCH r 
 
 OTCA 
 EIA PATCH 
 
 GDM SWITCH. 
 
 REAR 
 
 MINICOMPUTER 
 (CPCK) 
 
 ELANK 
 
 (RES FOR DPCM EXP) 
 
 : ,J !?UTER(DPCM) 
 
 .t:?lexer EXP 
 
 ""."-.TZ^'O'.M) 
 
 ::plexer EX? 
 
 !CGK?UTER(DPCM-)- 
 
 jISK drive 
 
 Doc 
 
 iiiiiiiiiiiiiiii'iinitiniiiiiiiihiMiii 
 
 I/O PANEL rear 
 
 (to ::: : ;• ;• •• ; 
 
 O .::: : :; :: :: :. • 
 
 s •*- 
 
 iiiniiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiii 
 
 Bf°3 01 CITIM 
 
 I/O PANEL REAR 
 
 Figure 2-14 
 
 — DTCA EXP 
 
 EIA SWHCH(DISRL.) 
 . EIA SWITCHES (COMM.) 
 
 -MINICOMPUTER 
 (DCM) 
 
 DISKETTE(FLOPPY 
 "DRIVE 
 WRITING SHELF 
 
 _minicomputer(dpcm; 
 multiplexer 
 
 .MINI COMPUTER (DCM) 
 MULTIPLEXER 
 
 . MINICOMPUTER(DCM) 
 DISK DRIVE 
 
 .*CPC 
 
 S - INDICATES SLIDE 
 MOUNTING 
 
 2-2-2 
 
AFOS EQUIPMENT 
 
 SECTION B : The Data Transfer and Control Assembly (DTCA) 
 EXPLANATION: The main components of the DTCA will be discussed. 
 
 1 
 
 D 
 
 UDS-DTCA 
 
 -P0WER=, 
 
 F=P0WER 
 
 <f 
 
 CTS CTS CRQ CTS CIS CTS CTS CTS CTS CTS CTS 
 
 ooooooooooo 
 
 TO TD PND TD TD TD TD TD " TD TD TD 
 
 ooooooooooo 
 
 CD CD DPR CD CD CD CD CD CD CD CD 
 
 ooooooooooo 
 
 RD RD COS RD RD RD RD RD RD RD RD 
 
 .ooooooooooo. 
 
 I 1 2 ACU 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 J 
 
 . ___ — "CHANNEL 
 
 Figure 2-16 
 DTCA 
 
 The Data Transfer and Control Assembly (DTCA) assembly allows the CCM 
 to receive and transmit data at both high and low speeds. 
 
 The power supply switches are located on the left side of the DTCA 
 (Figure 2-16). Both supplies are switched to the "ON" position- 
 However, one is designated as the primary power supply. The other 
 supply is a backup unit. This setup insures a continuous supply of 
 power to the unit. If one source fails, the other automatically takes 
 over control. 
 
 The front panel lights are positioned next to the power supplies. 
 These lights indicate the status of various components housed in the 
 DTCA. Interpretation will not be an operator function , 
 
 2-2-3 
 
TEST SET- 
 AF/DC PATCH r 
 
 DTCA 
 EIA PATCH 
 
 GDM SWITCH. 
 
 REAR 
 
 MINICOMPUTER 
 (GPCM) 
 
 ELANK 
 
 (RES FOR DPCM EXP) 
 
 MINICO w ?LTEP;C?CM) 
 
 multiplexer exp 
 
 mim-.cm.'.te 3 .:::.^.) 
 multiplexer ex? 
 
 M!NICCM?UTER(3PCM}- 
 jlSk DRIVE 
 
 }o 
 
 niiniiiiimifuMIHOmlliMiioitii 
 
 I/O PANEL REAR 
 
 ej ::: : :: •• .. ; 
 
 ^ ^ 9 9 9 f t P 
 
 iiiiiMiiniiiiiit mi t tn tine mi 
 
 eFs~el nrai *^ 
 
 I/O PANEL REAR 
 
 Figure 2-14 
 
 .DTCA EXP 
 
 EIA SWfrTCH(DISPL.) 
 EIA SWITCHES(CDMM.) 
 
 .MINICOMPUTER 
 (DCM) 
 
 DISKETTE(FLOPPY 
 "DRIVE 
 .WRITING SHELF 
 
 _minicomputer(dpcm; 
 multiplexer 
 
 . MI N I COMPUTER (DCM) 
 
 MULTIPLEXER 
 
 .MINICOMPUTER(DCM) 
 DISK DRIVE 
 
 -V£PC 
 
 S - INDICATES SLIDE 
 MOUNTING 
 
 2-2-4 
 
AFOS EQUIPMENT 
 
 SECTION C : The Disk Storage System 
 
 EXPLANATION : This section describes the disk storage system and the 
 handling of the disks. 
 
 The term DISK STORAGE SYSTEM refers to an assembly containing: 
 
 a disk drive, 
 
 a rigid magnetic platter that cannot be removed, 
 
 a removable magnetic platter housed in a plastic cartridge that 
 can be removed by operators. 
 
 A two computer configuration has two disk storage systems. 
 
 A one Computer configuration has one disk storage system. 
 
 The disk drive is mounted on a sliding shelf near the bottom of the 
 CCM (Figure 2-14). 
 
 These disks store 
 
 Computer programs that direct the operation of the computer 
 system. 
 
 Computer programs that direct the operation of the AFOS system. 
 
 Alphanumeric data and graphic data 
 
 The operator's controls for the disk drive are located on the right 
 side of the front panel. 
 
 continued 
 
 2-2-5 
 
TEST SET- 
 
 AF/DC PATCH r 
 
 OTCA 
 EIA PATCH 
 
 GDM SWITCH. 
 
 REAR 
 
 MINICOMPUTER 
 (CPCM) 
 
 BLANK 
 
 (RES FOR DPCM EXP) 
 
 MINI COMPUTER (DPCM) 
 MULTIPLEXER EXP 
 
 ^-cmpjterocm) 
 v.jlT:plexer exp 
 
 M!N!CCM?UTER(DPCM-)- 
 DISK DRIVE 
 
 Do o 
 
 Mllilllllllllll'llflllMllllilllll/llllll 
 
 I/O PANEL REAR 
 
 t»~ -i its j i; •••• • 
 
 I SJ .. . . ♦■ 
 
 * > ^9 f f r t r 
 
 ! >°^- 
 
 s *- 
 
 ga 
 
 iiiimiiiiiiHiiimiiimiiiiniii 
 
 gSID mrai^ 
 
 I/O PANEL REAR 
 
 Figure 2-14 
 
 — DTCA EXP 
 
 EIA SWITCH (DISPL.) 
 EIA SWITCHES(CDMM.) 
 
 .MINICOMPUTER 
 (DCM) 
 
 DISKETTE( FLOPPY 
 "DRIVE 
 . WRITING SHELF 
 
 _minicomputer(dpcm; 
 multiplexer 
 
 .MINICOMPUTER(DCM) 
 MULTIPLEXER 
 
 .MINICOMPUTER(DCM) 
 DISK DRIVE 
 
 ^CPC 
 
 S - INDICATES SLIDE 
 MOUNTING 
 
 2-2-6 
 
AFOS EQUIPMENT 
 
 Q 
 
 3 
 
 i» 
 
 ' VRIIC PROTECT 
 
 Q 
 
 Figure 2-17 
 Disk Drive Controls 
 
 CONTROLS 
 
 LOAD/READY 
 (rocker switch) 
 
 ON/OFF* 
 (rocker switch) 
 
 SELECT 
 
 (thumbwheel switch) 
 
 WRITE PROTECT 
 (rocker switch) 
 
 FUNCTION 
 
 LOAD POSITION stops the disk drive, 
 LOAD LIGHT will glow when disk is 
 stopped . 
 
 READY POSITION starts the disk drive. 
 READY LIGHT will glow when disk is 
 online with the minicomputer. 
 
 Power switch for disk drive ON LIGHT 
 glows when power is on. 
 
 Select unit number for the drive 
 
 On position prevents writing on disk 
 
 OFF position allows normal write 
 operation - 
 
 *Always make sure the load/ready switch is in LOAD position before 
 power switch OFF. 
 
 continued 
 
 2-2-7 
 
AFOS EQUIPMENT 
 
 Instructions for handling disks: 
 
 1. Turn power on- Drive will not slide out of cabinet 
 otherwise . 
 
 2. Press "LOAD" and wait for indicator light, before removing 
 or inserting any disk cartridges. 
 
 3. Release the front panel latches at left and right edge. 
 
 4. Slide out drive unit until it stops. 
 
 5. Remove the dust cover, if present, from the circular cavity. 
 
 6. Remove the old disk cartridge, if present, as follows: 
 
 a. Push its thumb latch to the left. 
 
 b. Lift the handle straight up while holding the latch 
 left. 
 
 c. Use the handle now to lift the whole cartridge up and 
 out of the drive cavity. 
 
 d. Place the cartridge into its dust cover base. 
 
 e. Lower the handle flat and release the thumb latch, to 
 lock the cartridge to the base for carrying and 
 storage. 
 
 f . If not mounting a new cartridge, place a spare dust 
 cover in the drive cavity and close and re-latch the 
 drive. 
 
 continued 
 
 2-2-8 
 
AFOS EQUIPMENT 
 
 7. Install the new disk cartridge, as follows: 
 
 a. Push its thumb latch plate to the left. 
 
 b. Lift the handle straight up while holding the latch 
 left. 
 
 c. Use the handle now to lift the whole cartridge up and 
 out of its dust cover base. 
 
 . d. Insert the cartridge into the drive cavity and seat it, 
 
 e. Lower the handle flat and release the thumb latch, to 
 lock the cartridge to the drive spindle for operation.. 
 
 f. Insert the dust cover into the cavity over the 
 cartridge. 
 
 8. Press "READY" and wait for indicator light.* 
 
 * Note: If there is a substantial temperature difference 
 between the cartridge disk and the drive, the READY 
 light may not illuminate for 5 to 10 minutes. This 
 is no cause for concern, but will merely increase 
 start-up time. To expedite the start-up procedure, 
 it is good practice to store the cartridge in the 
 computer room. 
 
 2-2-9 
 
AFOS EQUIPMENT 
 
 SECTION D: The Diskette Archival System 
 
 EXPLANATION : A diskette is a small flexible magnetic disk sealed in a 
 protective cover. The diskette is also called a "floppy disk" or 
 simply a "floppy". 
 
 Each computer has a set of two independent diskette drives located 
 just under the minicomputer in a one minicomputer configuration. The 
 two minicomputer configuration has the diskette drives placed just 
 below the minicomputer in the right hand rack (Figure 2 14) - 
 
 Diskette storage is designed to store locally generated data and 
 products either temporarily or permanently (archived) - 
 
 The operator controls are above the door to the diskette drive. 
 
 WRITE LOCK LIGHT 
 
 TRACK LIGHT 
 READY LIGHT 
 UNIT SELECT SWITCH 
 
 DOOR 
 
 LATCH 
 TAB 
 
 POWER ON LIGHT 
 FOWER SWITCH 
 
 Figure 2-18 
 Diskette Drive 
 
 The power light is located next to the power switch- This light will 
 glow when the power switch is in the "ON" position- A four position 
 thumbnail switch sets the logical unit number for the drive. Also 
 there are three lights that indicate a particular status of the drive. 
 
 continued 
 
 2-2-10 
 
STATUE 
 
 ! LIGHTS 
 
 READY 
 
 
 TRACK 
 
 
 
 WRITE 
 
 LOCK 
 
 AFOS EQUIPMENT 
 
 MEANING WHEN GLOWIN G 
 
 The drive is in a ready mode. 
 
 The read/write head in drive is 
 positioned at "TRACK 0" on the floppy. 
 
 The floppy cannot be written on by the 
 operator. 
 
 Instructions for handling diskettes 
 
 1. Ensure power on Observe indicator light on. 
 
 2. Open drive door by pressing latch tab below door. 
 
 3. Remove old diskette - if present, and replace it in storage 
 envelope . 
 
 4. Diskette will only record data when the "write protect" hole 
 is covered on both sides by a piece of opaque tape If hole 
 is not covered the diskette can only readout data. 
 
 5. Slide the new diskette into the drive slot, with the envelope 
 label up and out towards you- 
 
 6. Close the drive door When latched the "READY" and "TRACK 0" 
 lights will glow. If write-protect hole is taped- the "WRITE 
 LOCK" light will also glow. 
 
 7. Diskette is now ready for operation - 
 
 2-2-11 
 
TEST SET- 
 
 AF/DC PATCH r- 
 
 DTCA 
 EIA PATCH 
 
 COM SWITCH. 
 
 REAR 
 
 MINICOMPUTER 
 (DP CM) 
 
 ELANK 
 
 (RES FOR OPCM EXP) 
 
 : ,/ ?LTEP(CPCM) 
 _7."_EXER EXP 
 
 :'<-.:TE=(OCM) 
 riPLSXER EX? 
 
 IC&M?UTER(DPCM.). 
 
 DISK drive 
 
 
 a o o 
 
 52777 
 
 feiii 
 
 J o 
 
 llinilllliuil'llflllllllllllmln/llll 
 
 I/O PANEL REAR 
 
 bu :•• ::: 
 
 f^3 ■ "•' : :.* ill: :. •»■ 
 
 iiMittiiMiiiiiiiiHiiiifiiliiiini 
 
 Bf°3 0? (DM 
 
 I/O PANEL REAR 
 
 .DTCA EXP 
 
 EIA SWKCH(DISPl.) 
 EIA SWITCHES(CDMM.) 
 
 .MINICOMPUTER 
 (DCM) 
 
 DISKETTE(FLOPPY 
 ~DRIVE 
 WRITING SHELF 
 
 _minicomputer(dpcm; 
 multiplexer 
 
 .MINICOMP'JTER(DCM) 
 MULTIPLEXER 
 
 . MINICOMPUTER(DCM) 
 DISK DRIVE 
 
 -SCPC 
 
 Figure 2-14 
 
 S - INDICATES SLIDE 
 MOUNTING 
 
 ®fpi<© 
 
 © 
 
 ©1 
 
 © 
 
 
 
 A® 
 
 One*! (D 
 
 © 
 
 B 
 
 (DQD 
 © 
 
 © 
 
 G 
 
 ©Qa 
 © 
 
 © 
 
 © 
 
 © 
 
 © 
 
 Q 
 
 © 
 
 © 
 
 %A© 
 
 © 
 
 <*j© 
 © 
 
 © 
 © A© 
 
 J? 
 
 © A<X 
 
 © 
 
 © 
 
 © 
 
 A © 
 
 © 
 
 ©Im© 
 
 © 
 
 © 
 
 © 
 © A © 
 
 m 
 
 B 
 
 ©gcD 
 © 
 
 © 
 
 © 
 
 © 
 
 © A ©*© A 
 
 © 
 
 J? 
 
 ©g© 
 
 © 
 
 
 
 ©© A 
 
 © 
 
 A © 
 
 3 
 
 © 
 
 © 
 
 © A OXD A CDfCD 
 
 (D 
 
 © © 
 
 A <n 
 
 d©ra©©gcr 
 © 
 
 M 
 
 © 
 
 Figure 2-19 
 Typical Two Minicomputer Configuration 
 
 2-2-12 
 
AFOS EQUIPMENT 
 
 SE CTION E : Electronic Industries Association (EIA) Switch Panel 
 
 EXPLANATION : The EIA Switch Panel is your primary area for converting to 
 a degraded mode of operation 
 
 Two types of switch arrangements are possible for the EIA switch 
 panel, one for double minicomputer configuration and one for single 
 minicomputer configuration Figures 2-19 and 2-20 depict each type of 
 the above mentioned configurations. 
 
 © 
 
 © a 
 
 » 
 
 © 
 
 ©O 
 
 © 
 
 _ a (15 
 
 » 
 
 (Df^© 
 © 
 
 Figure 2-20 
 Single Minicomputer Configuration 
 
 In a double minicomputer configuration there are up to twenty EIA 
 switches possible. These are used to provide backup modes of 
 operation by switching communication functions from a malfunctioning 
 minicomputer to the other, still operational, minicomputer. 
 
 In a single minicomputer configuration there are only two switches 
 These provide capability of operating in a degraded mode in case the 
 minicomputer fails. 
 
 Operators use of these switches will be explained 
 with a recovery from system failures. 
 
 in Topics dealing 
 
 2-2-13 
 
TEST SET- 
 AF/DC PATCH r 
 
 DTCA 
 EIA PATCH 
 
 GDM SWITCH. 
 
 REAR 
 
 MINICOMPUTER 
 (DPCM) 
 
 BLANK 
 
 (RES FOR DPCM EXP) 
 
 ^uter(dpcm) 
 
 ;: e -Exes ex° 
 
 ■'.:■:: zv.o-y.) 
 
 .•'LEXER EX? 
 
 yi'ilCOMPUTEROPCM). 
 
 JISK DRIVE 
 
 ]o 
 
 El 
 
 iiiiiiimniiiriililllUilillriH/iiiiii 
 
 I/O PANEL REAR 
 
 fir '~\ Jjj ; •• •• •• • 
 
 t3 .::: :*:• :::; :. « 
 
 P°«-*L 
 
 s «- 
 
 (S3 
 w 
 
 miiiiimiimumiiiiimimui 
 
 Bf°5 01 GOM 
 
 I/O PANEL REAR 
 
 Figure 2-14 
 
 .DTCA EXP 
 
 EIA SWKCH(DISPL.) 
 EIA SWITCHES(COMM.) 
 
 .MINICOMPUTER 
 (DCM) 
 
 DISKETTE( FLOPPY 
 "DRIVE 
 .WRITING SHELF 
 
 _minicomputer(dpcm; 
 multiplexer 
 
 .MINICOMPUTER(DCM) 
 
 MULTIPLEXER 
 
 .MINICOMPUTER(DCM) 
 DISK DRIVE 
 
 -ACPC 
 
 S - INDICATES SLIDE 
 MOUNTING 
 
 2-2-14 
 
AFOS EQUIPMENT 
 
 SECTION F : AC Power Control (ACPC) Unit for the CCM 
 
 EXPLANATION : The console operator may find it necessary, on occasion to 
 power down the CCM. Part of this procedure is to turn off the power 
 supply to the CCM. The switch for this is the "MASTER RACK POWER" 
 switch located at the bottom of the CCM rack directly below the disk 
 drive (located in the rack on your right facing the CCM for a two 
 minicomputer configuration) Refer to Figure 2-14 Figure 2-21 shows 
 the unit in more detail. 
 
 
 MASTER RACK POWER 
 
 o 
 
 ON 
 OFF 
 
 60 AMP 1 1 5V AC 
 
 RACK PUWhR UTILITY PWR* 
 
 ON 
 OFF 
 
 ON 
 OFF 
 
 SQZ3Q amp ua AC US AMP 
 
 
 5\ 
 
 Figure 2-21 
 ACPC Unit 
 
 When master switch located on the left side of the unit is off it 
 automatically disables the rack power and utility power switches 
 These two switches will not normally be handled by the operator. 
 
 2-2-15 
 
AFOS EQUIPMENT 
 TOPIC 3: PRINTER/PLOTTER MODULE (PPM) AN D KE YBOARD/PRIN TER (KB/P) 
 
 SECTION A : The Printer/Plotter Module (PPM) 
 
 EXPLANATIO N : The physical characteristics of the PPM are discussed in 
 this section 
 
 
 sra 
 
 3 
 
 jZTjJ yj [El 
 
 g|m fnrf 
 
 DISPLAY 
 SELECTOR 
 
 y A XEROX COXPAMY 
 
 
 p.-r-Ti 
 
 POWER 
 
 
 
 
 ADVANCE 
 
 
 
 - 
 
 FORM FEED 
 
 1 1 
 I 1 
 
 PAPER 
 
 1 
 
 J 
 
 Figure 2-22 
 The PPM 
 
 The PPM will produce a copy of displayed data in about 10 seconds. 
 
 For graphic prints the paper will automatically advance so the copy 
 can be to en off. 
 
 Data displayed on an ADM can be copied by striking the PRINT key on 
 the ADM keyboard 
 
 Data displayed on the (DM can be copied by pushing the DISPLAY 
 SELECTOR button corresponding to the GDM display. The button will 
 
 light and stay lit until the copy is made See paper control buttons 
 upper right of Figure 2 22. 
 
 Function of Controls 
 
 POWER 
 
 ADVANCE 
 
 FORM FEED 
 PAPER 
 
 Turns power off or on 
 
 Paper advances as long as button is 
 held down 
 
 Advances paper one page length 
 
 Lights to indicate PPM is out of 
 paper 
 
 2-3-0 
 
AFOS EQUIPMENT 
 
 SECTION B : Keyboard/Printer (KB/P) 
 
 EXPLANATION: The KB/P allows the operator direct communication with the 
 minicomputer, It is essentially a typewriter with special function 
 keys added. 
 
 The keyboard differs from the ADM keyboard in location of some of the 
 keys and in the special function keys. Although, both allow 
 communication with the minicomputer, the ADM keyboard, interfaces with 
 the AFOS program commands, whereas, the KBP interfaces with the 
 operating system program commands. 
 
 The KB/P consists of three basic parts: 1) a printer; 
 operator's controls, and; 3) the keyboard (Figure 2-23), 
 
 2) the 
 
 The printer consists of essentially two parts, a printhead and paper,. 
 A brief description of these parts and some other characteristics of 
 the printer follows: 
 
 PRINTHEAD 
 
 Contains the character set for 
 
 the KB/P and prints the 
 
 characters typed by the 
 operator. 
 
 PAPER 
 
 KB/P uses f anfold 
 standard pinfeed paper 
 
 industry 
 
 AUDIBLE "CARRIAGE-RIGHT" 
 
 Sounds when printhead reaches 
 the TONE end of line; character 
 position 126 of a maximum 128 
 characters/line . 
 
 VIEW PRINT 
 
 KEYBOARD 
 
 OPERATOR 
 CONTROLS 
 
 Figure 2-23 
 KB/P 
 
 continued 
 2-3-1 
 
 Automatic feature which moves 
 the printhead clear of the 
 printed text to allow the 
 operator to see the text. 
 
 Printhead returns to the 
 character position after the 
 last character printed when 
 typing resumes. 
 
KEYBOARD 
 
 OPERATOR 
 CONTROLS 
 
 Figure 2-23 
 
 INDICATOR 
 
 EW ON/OFF 
 
 LINE 
 FEED 
 
 ON LINE 
 OFF LINE 
 
 Figure 2-24 
 Operator Controls 
 
 2-3-2 
 
AFOS EQUIPMENT 
 
 Operator Controls consist of three switches and three lights located 
 to the right of the keyboard, The switches have special functions as 
 described below: 
 
 POWER SWITCH 
 
 Turns power on (up position) and off (down 
 position) . Ready light glows when power 
 is on , 
 
 ON/OFF LINE 
 
 ON LINE - Terminal is placed "on-line" 
 with the computer. Information entered is 
 printed and transmitted to the computer. 
 ON-LINE indicator light glows. 
 
 LINE FEED 
 
 OFF LINE - The terminal is placed 
 "off-line" from the computer- Information 
 entered is printed but NOT transmitted to 
 the computer ■ 
 
 Used to advance paper. Depressing the 
 edge nearest the light advances paper one 
 space. Depressing edge nearest the 
 operator causes paper to advance 
 continuously until switch is released. 
 
 VIEW 
 
 VIEW ON - Moves printhead clear of print 
 during lapses in typing. 
 
 VIEW OFF - Printhead does not move clear 
 of print. 
 
 INDICATOR LIGHTS 
 
 LEFT - Indicates terminal is on line 
 
 MIDDLE - Indicates power is on. 
 
 RIGHT Indicates printer is out of paper. 
 Terminal goes off line- Data transmitted 
 subsequently is lost. 
 
 continued 
 
 2-3-3 
 
AFOS EQUIPMENT 
 
 TAB 
 
 A 
 
 BS 
 
 BRK 
 
 ESC 
 
 V 
 
 *t — V 
 
 ■V 
 
 RETURN 
 
 CTRL 
 
 ALPHA 
 LOCK 
 
 LINE 
 FEED 
 
 DEL 
 
 Q SHIFT 
 
 SPACE 
 
 BAR 
 
 SHIFT 
 
 RPT 
 
 The special function 
 
 TAB 
 
 BS (back space) 
 
 BRK (break) 
 
 ESC (escape) 
 
 RETURN 
 
 CTRL (control) 
 
 ALPA LOCK 
 LINE FEED 
 DEL (delete) 
 
 RPT (repeat) 
 
 Figure 2-25 
 KB/P Keyboard 
 
 keys are 
 
 Not used 
 
 Not used. 
 
 Not used. 
 
 This key will not normally be used by AFOS 
 operators , 
 
 Used to enter a command to the computer. 
 The printhead returns to the leftmost 
 character position; the paper does not 
 advance 
 
 Used for terminating foreground/background 
 programs. CTRL KEY depressed while 
 striking another key. 
 
 Locks shift key until depressed again 
 
 Advances the paper one line 
 
 No effect during off-line operation. 
 During on line operation minicomputer 
 deletes previous struck character. 
 Printhead moves forward one character 
 space. 
 
 When this key and a character key are 
 depressed simultaneously, the character is 
 continuously generated until either key is 
 released. 
 
 2-3-4 
 
CHAPTER 3 
 AFOS DATA BASE OVERVIEW 
 
 3-0-1 
 
AFOS DATA BASE OVERVIEW 
 INTRODUCTION 
 
 From the AFOS Newsletters, and other related sources, you probably have 
 already formed a general impression as to what constitutes the AFOS data 
 base. 
 
 First of all, data base in general, is defined as: 
 
 The set of information, or data, on which operations and conclusions 
 are based. 
 
 In AFOS, data base is that section of your mass data storage where AFOS 
 products are stored and are subject to automatic purging. 
 
 The AFOS data base will include products (forecast, surface observations, 
 graphics, etc.) that are used routinely by the operator to perform the 
 daily mission. 
 
 All AFOS products (observations, forecast, warning products, etc.) 
 have an assigned seven to nine character product identifier. The assigned 
 product identifier is used for transmission, storage, and display of the 
 product, and is also the foundation on which the data base is structured. 
 
 The format of the AFOS product identifier is CCCNNNXXX. The three elements 
 of the product identifier identify each AFOS product. Specific examples 
 and use of the product identifier will be discussed in this chapter. 
 
 At each site, the data base includes inventory lists of nodes, categories, 
 etc. The operator may retrieve these lists when needed. 
 
 For those products that are not stored in your local data base, request/ 
 reply may be used to retrieve the product. Request/reply will be discussed 
 in detail in a later chapter. 
 
 3-0-3 
 
AFOS DATA BASE OVERVIEW 
 TOPIC 1: STORAGE OF DATA BASE PRODUCTS 
 
 SECTION A : The Product Identifier (CCCNNNXXX) 
 
 EXPLANATION : Data sent on the NDC is examined by each node and then forwarded 
 on to the next node as discussed in Chapter 1 . These data are generally 
 in the form of products. The computer at each node does not examine the 
 entire product to see if it should be stored. That would be inefficient. 
 
 Each product sent through the AFOS circuit has a unique identifier called 
 the Product Identifier. The computer uses this identifier to determine 
 if the product is to be stored at that node. This product identifier has 
 a twelve character format of CCCNNNXXX. VV. Normally the .VV will not be 
 used. 
 
 CCC (the NODE IDENTIFIER)* identifies the NDC node that entered the 
 product onto the NDC. 
 
 NNN (the PRODUCT CATEGORY) identifies the type of product entered 
 onto the NDC. 
 
 XXX (the PRODUCT DESIGNATOR)* identifies the specific product within 
 the given Product Category (NNN). 
 
 .VV (the VERSION NUMBER) keeps track of the number of versions of 
 each CCCNNNXXX. This number is usually internal in the computer 
 in hexidecimal form. Its use will be explained when needed. 
 
 Presented below are three specific examples of AFOS CCCNNNXXX identifiers 
 and a description of the products they represent. 
 
 1 . MEMSAOBNA 
 
 CCC NNN XXX 
 
 MEM SAO BNA 
 
 This product is a surface observation (SAO) for Nashville, Tennessee 
 (BNA) issued by the Nashville Weather Service Office but entered on 
 the NDC through the Memphis Forecast Office (MEM). 
 
 2. SDFSFPKY 
 
 CCC NNN XXX 
 
 SDF SFP KY 
 
 This product is a State Forecast (SFP) for Kentucky (KY) by the 
 Louisville Forecast Office (SDF). 
 
 continued 
 3-1-0 
 
AFOS DATA BASE OVERVIEW 
 
 3. FTWSIGA 
 
 CCC NNN XXX 
 
 FTW SIG A 
 
 This product is Sigmet (SIG) Alpha (A) entered on the NDC by the 
 Fort Worth Forecast Office (FTW). 
 
 * 
 
 The GCC may not be a node identifier when a collective is requested 
 to display a group of specific products. 
 
 # The XXX is a three character identifier, however, in some cases a 
 single character or two characters are used with blank characters 
 filling the remaining spaces. 
 
 
 3-1-1 
 
AFOS DATA BASE OVERVIEW 
 
 SECTION B : The Node Identifier (CCC) 
 
 EXPLANATION : The node identifier was discussed in the Communications Chapter. 
 For purposes of illustration, think of the node as a large room filled 
 with file cabinets. This room can store all the information created 
 from the node and its corresponding SDC. The node used in the illustration 
 is Memphis. 
 
 CCC 
 
 Figure 3-1 
 
 Node Identifier 
 
 Using the MEM node identifier gives access to the room filled with file 
 cabinets. 
 
 3-1-2 
 
AFOS DATA BASE OVERVIEW 
 
 SECTION C : The Category Inventory List (CIL) 
 
 EXPLANATION : The CIL is a list of all the categories of products that are 
 issued by NWS offices. The NNN can be thought of as a group of file 
 cabinets within the large room. This is illustrated in Figure 3-2. 
 
 XXX 
 
 Figure 3-2 
 Product Category 
 
 Using the FTA product category gives access to the FTA file cabinet in 
 the MEM storeroom. 
 
 Note: There are categories (NNNs) that MEM might not ever use, i.e., 
 SAB (Snow Avalanche Bulletin), hence this category would appear 
 on the CIL but not be used. 
 
 3-1-3 
 
ccc 
 
 Figure 3-1 
 Node Identifier 
 
 3-1-4 
 
AFOS DATA BASE OVERVIEW 
 
 SECTION D : The Product Inventory List (PIL) 
 
 EXPLANATION : The PIL is the final subdivision of the Product Indentifier. 
 It delineates a specific product within a particular category. The PIL 
 can be thought of as a drawer within a file cabinet. This is illustrated 
 in Figure 3-3. 
 
 Figure 3-3 
 Product Designator 
 
 Using the CHA product designator gives access to the CHA drawer of the FTA 
 cabinet in the MEM storeroom. 
 
 There is one more breakdown which specifies a single product. The PIL 
 specifies a particular product; however, the computer upon direction 
 stores one or several versions of the particular product. The product 
 by version number is the smallest division of a product identifier. 
 
 Using the version number command (explained in later chapters) allows the 
 operator to examine an individual product in the CHA drawer of the FTA 
 cabinet in the MEM storeroom. 
 
 3-1-5 
 
AFOS DATA BASE OVERVIEW 
 
 SECTION E : The Data Base 
 
 EXPLANATION : The data base at a particular node is composed of many of the 
 storerooms illustrated in Sections B, C, and D. Some of these storerooms 
 are larger than others because it is necessary to store more of a particular 
 node's products than others. This would normally result from geographical 
 proximity or from high frequency of use. For MEM (Figure 3-4), nodes such 
 as SDF, STL, LIT, MSY, etc., would probably have larger rooms because of 
 geographical position. Offices such as WBC and JFK could also have larger 
 areas because of high frequency use of their products. 
 
 Figure 3-4 
 Data Base 
 
 This figure illustrates a possible data base structure of WSFO MEM. 
 
 3-1-6 
 
AFOS DATA BASE OVERVIEW 
 
 SECTION F : SDC and NDC Node Data Storage Relationship 
 
 EXPLANATION: This section describes how data flows between NDC and SDC nodes 
 
 NDC 
 
 ZDE2D 
 
 MEMORY 
 i 
 v 
 
 NDC 
 
 -^[ATLZFPGA ] ->[ WBCSFPVA ] 
 
 -> [ATLZFPGA M WBCSFPVA ] 
 
 [[ATLZFPGA ] 
 
 [WBCSFPVA > 
 
 [ATLZFPGA W 
 
 MEMORY 
 
 [ATLZFPGA ] 
 ! 
 
 TEU 
 
 [WBCSFPVA ] 
 
 u > [WBCSFPVA ] 
 
 V 
 
 [ATLZFPGA ] 
 
 MEMORY 
 
 < MEMORY 
 
 Bf\ld 
 
 Figure 3-5 
 Data Flow 
 
 Data that travels on the SDCs is a subset of the data that is sent over the 
 NDC. Only if the NDC node office (a WSFO or national center) stores a 
 product in its local data base is that product available to the SDCs 
 connected to the node. If the NDC node has not flagged the product for 
 its own local storage then that product is passed along the NDC without 
 forwarding it on the SDCs. Naturally, all products from the SDCs are 
 forwarded on the NDC, whether the NDC node office stores them or not. 
 
 3-1-7 
 
AFOS DATA BASE OVERVIEW 
 TOPIC 2: DATA BASE STORAGE ON DISK 
 
 SECTION A : The AFOS Disk 
 
 EXPLANATION : This section (1) defines a disk, (2) disk pack, (3) identifies 
 the types of information that are stored on disk, (4) defines the 
 difference between "data base" information and the rest of the infor- 
 mation on disk, (5) looks at the implications of losing the service of 
 one of the disks. 
 
 DISK - A disk is a magnetic medium used for storing data (refer to glossary 
 for a more comprehensive definition). 
 
 DISK PACK - Refers to the removable magnetic platter housed in a plastic 
 cartridge. 
 
 TYPE OF INFORMATION STORED ON DISK - Alphanumeric and graphic products 
 are partitioned in a two disk configuration at each WSFO. (The same 
 type of information is stored on one disk at the WSOs). The information 
 content stored on each WSFO disk follows: 
 
 DPCM 
 Removable Disk The operating system 
 
 The AFOS program 
 
 Local and national A/N product files 
 
 1/2 of graphic files 
 Fixed Disk Copy of key files 
 
 Copy of communication files buffer 
 
 Copy of asynchronous transmission schedule 
 
 Other protected files 
 
 Applications program 
 
 Display tables 
 
 continued 
 
 3-2-0 
 
AFOS DATA BASE OVERVIEW 
 
 PCM 
 Removable Disk Operating system 
 
 AFOS program 
 
 Local and national A/N product files 
 
 Other 1/2 graphic files 
 Fixed Disk Other A/N Product files 
 
 Key files 
 
 Communication files (1/2 hr. worth buffer) 
 
 Copy of display tables 
 
 Asynchronous transmission schedule files 
 
 Other protected files 
 
 Note: 1) The above distribution can be considered typical, but it is by 
 no means set. 
 
 2) Since "other A/N product files" are stored on DCM fixed disk, 
 if the DCM goes down these files are unavailable. 
 
 3) Each disk will contain 5 megabytes of data. This allows each 
 computer a total data base of 10 megabytes/disk drive. 
 
 WSFO: Total of 20 megabytes of data. 
 
 WSO: Total of 10 megabytes of data. 
 
 4) "Copy" means that the information is stored redundantly. 
 
 Two characteristics that differentiate the data from the rest of the infor- 
 mation on disk are: 
 
 The data base products all have an assigend AFOS product identifier. 
 
 The data base products are all subject to automatic purging (erasing) 
 from disk. 
 
 The redundant storage (of duplicated critical information on the DCPM 
 DP0 and DCM DP0) allows the WSFO to operate with little disruption if 
 either disk were to fail. You still would have access to all locally 
 and nationally produced alphanumeric (A/N) products and to the software 
 operating system managing the computer operations. If the DPCM DP0 fails, 
 
 continued 
 
 3-2-1 
 
AFOS DATA BASE OVERVIEW 
 
 none of the other alphanumeric data would be lost. If the failure was 
 in the DCM DP0, you would have lost access to all alphanumeric data that 
 were not locally or nationally produced. You could use request/reply to 
 store select products you require. 
 
 If either disk fails, you would have lost access to one-half of your 
 graphics. You would know which specific graphics were lost since they 
 are assigned to a specific disk pack. The graphics are divided between 
 the two disks in such a way to minimize the impact of losing use of 
 either disk. 
 
 ( 
 
 3-2-2 
 
CHAPTER 4 
 SYSTEM OPERATION 
 
 4-0-1 
 
SYSTEM OPERATION 
 INTRODUCTION 
 
 Occasionally, the AFOS system will fail to respond as expected. This is 
 termed a "FAULT". AFOS operators must be able to recognize faults as 
 they occur and to initiate procedures to restore the system to normal 
 operational status. 
 
 The AFOS operator is the principal person to detect and initiate correction 
 of system failures. Some faults can be handled by the operator alone 
 but many will require coordination with SMCC. 
 
 In general, the operator's function in case of a fault will involve one 
 or more of the following: 
 
 Recognize that a problem exists. 
 
 Analyze symptoms and locate the cause, if possible. 
 
 Correct problem(s) if possible, otherwise, call SMCC. 
 
 The material in this chapter is written primarily for pre-Version I 
 and will be replaced when Version I is implemented. In general, it 
 discusses how to recognize a problem, how to analyze the problem, and 
 how to recover from the problem. 
 
 The recovery portion of the chapter covers procedures to restart AFOS 
 or reboot RDOS when a program failure occurs. 
 
 When you have a problem that cannot be resolved at the site, you are 
 expected to call SMCC. They will help you isolate the problem and guide 
 you through the steps necessary to resume normal operations. 
 
 This might involve using SMCC temporatily for access to data on the NDC 
 or for advice on how to arrange an alternate mode of operation for your 
 station. 
 
 4-0-3 
 
SYSTEM OPERATION 
 TOPIC 1: FAULT RECOGNITION AND SYSTEM ANALYSIS 
 
 INTRODUCTION 
 
 When a fault occurs, in most cases, an incorrect answer or error message 
 will be displayed on the ADM or an error code will print out on the KB/P, 
 Occasionally, you may not get a response because of a system malfunction, 
 
 Faults will arise from human error (operator error) i.e., something you 
 did recently at an AFOS console or the CCM front panel switches. Some 
 faults are caused by system errors (malfunctions). Again, resolutions 
 of some faults can be handled by the operator while others will require 
 coordination with SMCC. 
 
 4-1-0 
 
SYSTEM OPERATION 
 
 SECTION A : Failures Due To Operator Error 
 
 EXPLANATION : In this section AFOS operators will learn how to recognize some 
 faults due to errors in procedure - and how to avoid such errors. 
 
 Operator Error is generally some error in procedure. For example: 
 
 misspelled words 
 
 mis-set switches 
 
 invalid sequence of commands 
 
 Usually system failure due to operator error is caused by something done 
 recently at: the ADM keyboard, the CCM, or the KB/P. 
 
 When the AFOS system fails to respond as expected, including no response, 
 it may be operator error. 
 
 If the system responds to a repeated command or corrected procedure, the 
 cause was probably operator error. 
 
 Remember : A computer will not operate correctly unless the commands given 
 it are EXACTLY right. 
 
 There are more ways to incorrectly command a computer than to 
 correctly command a computer. 
 
 Operators MUST develop methodical work habits when operating 
 AFOS equipment. 
 
 4-1-1 
 
SYSTEM OPERATION 
 
 SECTION B : Failures Due to System Errors 
 
 EXPLANATION : In this section the operator will learn how to recognize faults 
 due to system errors. 
 
 System Errors are those errors which prevent the system from performing 
 as instructed. For example: 
 
 hardware component failures 
 
 communication line problems 
 
 software bugs 
 
 The system will make a log entry of an error message (in the system error 
 log) indicating the malfunction. The message "SYSTEM ERROR" will be dis- 
 played on the ADM. 
 
 Call SMCC when an error message is displayed that you do not understand. 
 
 4-1-2 
 
SYSTEM OPERATION 
 
 SECTION C : ADM Error Messages 
 
 EXPLANATION : In this section the operator will become familiar with some of the 
 error messages that are displayed on the ADM. 
 
 The error messages that are displayed on the ADM are generated from the 
 AFOS operating system. Some of these are advisories, e.g., upon automatic 
 switching to a backup network circuit. Most indicate system anomalies 
 which the software chooses not to cope with directly, but rather wants 
 to bring to your attention for appropriate action. 
 
 Some of the messages may reflect software malfunctions and others simply 
 hardware malfunctions that are not immediately recoverable without your 
 help. 
 
 Some of these advisory/error messages are: 
 
 Invalid Command 
 
 Invalid PIL I.D. 
 
 Syntax Error 
 
 Product CCCNNNXXX.nn Not Archived 
 
 A listing of the more common advisory and error messages will be in an 
 appendix to the AFOS Training Guide. 
 
 For software problems or messages you don't understand, consult SMCC. 
 
 4-1-3 
 
SYSTEM OPERATION 
 
 SECTION D : KB/P Error Messages 
 
 EXPLANATION : This section introduces you to system generated messages that 
 print out on the KB/P in response to a malfunction. 
 
 Most of the messages that appear on the alphanumeric display screen will 
 also appear on the KB/P. System errors activate your alarm and are 
 entered in the system error log for display on your ADM. In addition, 
 there are several extraordinary error messages (always printed on the 
 KB/P) to indicate drastic software or hardware mishaps, as follows: 
 
 Message: "TRAP = Number Number Number Number Number" 
 
 "BREAK" 
 
 "R" 
 
 Reason: You have a problem with software 
 
 Action: You may have to restart AFOS. You should double check 
 with SMCC unless you know you have caused the fault. 
 
 Message: "Number Number Number Number Number" 
 
 Reason: You have a panic halt and your input devices (ADM and 
 KB/P) are probably all dead and unresponsive. 
 
 Action: Try all your consoles. Always call SMCC. You may be 
 able to reboot and do a cleanup, if this was only a 
 temporary hardware problem. More often, you will need 
 your El Tech to run hardware checks. 
 
 Message: "POWER RESTORED" 
 
 Reason: If your Eclipse has its key in lock position, the 
 
 software should be able to resume automatically after 
 brief power outages and will print this message when 
 doing so. 
 
 Action: If a short outage, no action is needed. If long, you 
 
 may have to restart or reboot with a cleanup; you should 
 consult SMCC first. 
 
 4-1-4 
 
AFOS TRAINING GLOSSARY 
 
AFOS TRAINING GLOSSARY 
 
 A 
 
 AAU 
 
 ACPC 
 
 ACU 
 
 ADAS 
 
 ADCCP 
 
 ADM 
 
 ADU 
 
 AERO FORD 
 
 AFGWC 
 
 AFOS 
 
 AG, AGG, or AGGG 
 
 AIRS 
 
 AK 
 
 ALARM 
 
 ALERT 
 
 ALM 
 
 AMOS 
 
 A/N 
 
 1. Alphanumer ic as in ADM or 
 
 2. Alphanumeric display screen as in AG, AK, AGG, etc. 
 
 Automatic Answering Unit - 1. Part of ADU 2. part of 
 each synchronous mode 
 
 AC Power Control 
 
 Automaic Calling Unit 
 
 Automatic Data Acquisition System 
 
 Advanced Data Communications Control Procedure 
 
 Alphanumeric Display Module 
 
 Automatic Dialing Unit (part of the DTCA) 
 
 Aerospace 
 
 Former acronym for the Ford 
 Communications Corporation 
 
 and 
 
 Air Force Global Weather Central 
 
 Automation of Field Operations and Services 
 
 AFOS operator console configurations of one 
 alphanumeric display module and one, two, or three 
 graphic display modules, listed from left to right. 
 
 Aviation Information Retrieval System. The AFOS 
 software assisted pilot briefing program. 
 
 Alphanumeric Display Screen with a Keyboard 
 
 In AFOS - The flashing of the alarm key accompanied by 
 a tone (both at the AFOS operator console) 
 
 In AFOS - The flashing of the alarm key at the AFOS 
 Operator Console. 
 
 Asychronous Line Multiplexer 
 
 Automatic Meteorological Observing Station 
 
 Alphanumeric as in AlphaNumeric data - data composed of 
 letters and numbers 
 
Page 2 
 
 ANALOG DATA 
 
 ARCHIVE 
 (LOWER CASE) 
 
 A data format which permits the representation of all 
 values of a parameter as a continuous line (e.g. a 
 sine wave or curve which represents all values of the 
 sine for all angles. In this case all does not mean 
 just whole integers, if it did then the curve would be 
 a series of dots connected by squared-off lines) . (See 
 digital data) . 
 
 To save in storage, as in records, files or documents 
 
 ARCHIVE 
 
 ASYNCHRONOUS 
 
 The AFOS software which accomplishes the automatic 
 storing (archiving) of locally prepared products onto a 
 floppy disk. 
 
 1. Not synchronous 2. In AFOS data transmission where 
 each character consists of 5 to 8 bits preceeded by a 
 "ZERO" start bit and followed by a "ONE" stop bit. 
 Each bit is of equal duration except the stop bit may 
 be one and one half or two times as long as the others. 
 
 Such data is read bit by bit until a character is 
 complete and then it is passed on. 
 
 BACKGROUND 
 
 BACKGROUND 
 BAUD 
 
 BAUDOT CODE 
 
 BIT 
 BLOCK 
 
 In simultaneous multiple program processing the 
 computer environment (resource area) in which lowest 
 priority programs are executed. In AFOS, which uses a 
 multipartition processor, background is the area 
 dedicated to the execution of single programs on a non- 
 interrupt, first in - first out basis. All programs 
 executed in background have the lowest priority in 
 accessing foreground resources (e.g. data access, 
 calculation, data transfer, etc.) 
 
 See MAP BACKGROUND for grahpics 
 
 A unit of signaling speed equal to the number of 
 discrete conditions or signal events per second. For 
 example, one baud equals one bit per second in a train 
 of binary signals. 
 
 A code for the transmission of data in which five 
 equal-length bits represent one character. Example, 
 most of our teletypewriter machine code. 
 
 A binary digit (0 or 1) 
 
 A group of bits transmitted as a unit. (The maximum 
 AFOS block is 2048 bits (256 bytes) . The maximum RDOS 
 block is 2 AFOS blocks) . 
 
Page 3 
 
 BOARD 
 
 BOOT (BOOT 
 STRAP) 
 
 BPS 
 BUFFER 
 
 A small, thin, rectangular piece of non-conducting 
 
 material with attached or superimposed printed circuits 
 
 (PC) and other various electronic components and 
 
 provided with electrical connections to a power source. 
 
 In general - A technique or device used to bring about 
 a desired state (e.g. ready to operate) in a piece of 
 equipment, as a result of its own actions. In AFOS - 
 1. The firmware program which loads in and begins 
 execution of the MRDOS program. 2. The entire 
 procedure (step by step) required to use 1. and get 
 the AFOS program started. 
 
 Bits Per Second 
 
 An auxiliary data-storage device which holds data 
 temporarily. May be used to compensate for a 
 difference in rate of flow of data, or in time of 
 occur ance of events, when transmitting data from one 
 device to another. 
 
 BUFFER STORAGE 
 
 BUS 
 
 1. Any device temporarily storing data during a data 
 transfer. 2. Secondary storage areas used exclusively 
 for assembly and transfer of data between internal and 
 external storage. 3. An output device into which data 
 is copied from internal storage and held for transfer 
 to external storage and while computation continues 
 taking place. 
 
 A circuit over which data or power is transmitted. 
 Often acts as a common connection among a number of 
 locations, allowing data or power from any of several 
 locations to be transferred to any of several 
 destinations. 
 
 BYTE 
 
 1. A unit of processing storage (e.g. one ASCII 
 character = 8 bits = 1 byte. 2. A group of binary 
 digits operated upon as a unit, usually shorter than a 
 word. 
 
 CAS 
 CATV 
 
 Current (in the Category Inventory List) . Indicates 
 that products of that catagory are being stored. 
 
 In AFOS - Central Archival System 
 
 Cable Television - In AFOS, CATV codes are used to 
 direct messages. 
 
Page 4 
 
 CCC 
 
 CCM 
 
 CENTRAL 
 
 PROCESSING 
 
 UNIT 
 
 In AFOS product identifier format - indicates 1. An 
 NDC node or product point of entry. 2. Any 3 
 charactrer identifier of an NDC node. 
 
 Communications Computer Module 
 
 A section of the computer which includes the circuits 
 controlling the interpretation and execution of 
 instructions 
 
 CHARACTER 
 
 CIL 
 CLEANUP 
 
 A letter, number or other symbol that is used as part 
 of the organization, control, or representation of 
 data. In AFOS 1 character is assigned 8 bits or 1 
 byte. 
 
 Category Inventory List 
 
 In AFOS - 1. Any program or routine which makes sure 
 that files containing data are closed (not subject to 
 overwriting) . 2. A program which prevents the loss 
 of the data on a disk by systematically reading and 
 recording the data contained on that disk, in order to 
 recreate a directory file which may have been lost or 
 altered. 
 
 CLI 
 CIS 
 COLD START 
 
 COMMS 
 CONSOLE 
 
 CORE MEMORY 
 
 CPU 
 CRASH 
 
 Command Line Interpreter 
 
 Computer Language Store 
 
 The entire process of taking the office's AFOS from a 
 power off condition to an operational condition with 
 the AFOS program running. 
 
 Communications 
 
 In AFOS - The operator console consisting of 
 alphanumeric display (s) and keyboard with some consoles 
 also having one or more graphic displays. 
 
 A group of doughnut shaped pieces of magnetic material 
 on wires, used for storing data by means of magnetic 
 polarization of the individual core elements. 
 
 Central Processing Unit - see above 
 
 An unplanned and/or uncontrolled halt in program 
 execution. 
 
 CRT 
 
 Cathode Ray Tube - The electronic display screen. 
 
Page 5 
 
 CURSOR 
 
 CWF 
 
 CYCLE TIME 
 
 A spot of light on a CRT, moved by keyboard inputs or 
 by the trackball for a graphic display screen. Acts as 
 a position indicator for the next character to appear , 
 or as the center of a graphic zoom area. 
 
 Computer Worded Forecast 
 
 1. The interval between the call for data from a 
 storage device, and the delivery of that data to core 
 memory. 2. For core memory - The total time required 
 to read and rewrite one storage word of data. (Rewrite 
 is necessary because reading erases the data from 
 memory) 
 
 DARDC 
 DATA BASE 
 
 DATA BASE 
 MANAGEMENT 
 
 DB 
 
 DBM 
 
 DCE 
 
 DCM 
 DCU 
 DDD 
 DEFAULT 
 
 DEGRADED 
 MODE 
 
 DIAGNOSTIC 
 
 Device for Automatic Remote Data Collection 
 
 The portion of your computer memory where AFOS products 
 are normally stored and are subject to automatic 
 purging. 
 
 A systematic approach to the storing, updating, and 
 retrieval of information stored as data items, where 
 several operations will use common data banks 
 
 Data Base 
 
 Data Base Management 
 
 Data Communications Equipment - The interface between 
 data transfer equipment and telephone company equipment 
 
 Data Communications Minicomputer 
 
 Data Communications Unit 
 
 Direct Distance Dialing (telephone term) 
 
 In AFOS - The condition or value to which the system 
 goes (or reverts) if other conditions or values are not 
 specified. 
 
 A special conditon where the system continues, or is 
 reconfigured to continue, operating but at a reduced 
 level, due to the unavailability or failure of some 
 unit or subsystem. 
 
 Pertaining to the discovery, detection or isolation of 
 a fault or malfunctiuon. 
 
Page 6 
 
 DIGITAL DATA 
 
 DISK 
 
 A data format which only permits the representation of 
 discrete values, e.g. integers. It also permits the 
 representation of discontinuous values or states 
 without a false appear ence of continuity, e.g. off-on. 
 This last feature makes it ideal for computers. 
 
 A flat circular metal plate with magnetic material on 
 both sides, on which data can be stored by selective 
 magnetization. The disk is continuously rotated and is 
 read or written on (data stored) by means of one or 
 more read/write heads mounted on movable or fixed arms. 
 Disks may be permanently mounted on a shaft (fixed 
 disk) or may be contained in an assembly that allows 
 easy removal and replacement (removable disk or disk 
 pack) . 
 
 DISKETTE (also 
 FLOPPY DISK or 
 FLEX DISK) 
 
 DISPLAY 
 DMA 
 
 A flat round piece of flexible material covered with 
 magnetic particles (on one or both sides) . The 
 diskette is encased in a square protective cover with 
 write protect, indexing, read/write, and disk drive 
 openings. The diskette is continuously rotated and 
 accessed by a single read/write head on a movable arm. 
 
 The visual presentation of data. 
 
 Direct Memory Access - Allows an address to be accessed 
 within a given time period irrespective of its 
 location. A result is that program access time to a 
 given location is not dependent on the previously 
 accessed location. 
 
 DPCM 
 DSM 
 
 Data Processing and Control Minicomputer 
 
 Dual Switching Module - if the dedicated line fails, 
 the DSM switches the system to the dial-up line. 
 
 DTCA 
 
 DTE 
 
 DUPLEX 
 
 Data Transfer Control Assembly 
 
 Data Terminal Equipment 
 
 For transmission lines - 1. Line able to transmit data 
 in two directions. 2. Also used to mean full-duplex, 
 able to transmit data in two directions at the same 
 time using two or four lines) . Half-duplex means able 
 to transmit data in either direction but only in one 
 direction at a time. 
 
 Expired: In the AFOS Catagory Inventory List - A 
 warning type product has expired and is still being 
 stored 
 
Page 7 
 
 EDIS 
 
 ERROR MESSAGE 
 
 Environmental Data Information Service (NOAA) 
 
 A system generated message which is displyed on line 25 
 of the alphanumeric display screen. It indicates that 
 the preceding operator input command was incorrect or 
 could not be accomplished by the system. (Also see 
 SYSTEM ERROR MESSAGE) . 
 
 FACC 
 FIFO 
 FIRMWARE 
 
 FLEX DISK 
 FLOPPY DISK 
 
 FOFAX 
 
 FOREGROUND 
 
 Ford Aerospace and Communications Corporation 
 
 First In-First Out 
 
 Computer programs which are permantly "set" into a 
 section of memory also called hard wired programs. 
 Such firmware in storage is called read only memory 
 (ROM) since it is not erased by being read and need not 
 (in fact, can not) be rewritten in memory. Firmware is 
 used to bootstrap the MRDOS program in the AFOS system. 
 
 See DISKETTE 
 
 Forecast Office Facsimile 
 
 In simultaneous multiple program processing - the 
 computer environment (resource area) in which high 
 priority programs are run. Programs run in foreground 
 are able to utilize the computer central processing 
 unit immediately when needed. In AFOS, which uses a 
 multipartition processor, foreground is the area where 
 all DCM operations are handled (at a WSFO) and where 
 the actual AFOS program is run in the DCPM. While only 
 one program is being run in the foreground, multiple 
 tasks or subprograms are being run on a priority 
 interrupt basis, i.e., if a priority task must be done 
 (needs computer resources) the lower priority task is 
 suspended until the needs of the higher priority task 
 are satisfied. For example at a WSO (one computer), 
 communications tasks have a higher priority than 
 operator input tasks, therefore, when comms loads are 
 high, system response to operator commands is somewhat 
 slower . 
 
 G 
 GATEWAY 
 
 Graphic Display Module as in GDM 
 
 The methods, equipment and/or software used to transfer 
 data between the existing communications systems and 
 the AFOS NDC. This includes any necessary reformatting 
 or heading changes. Gateway is located at Suitland, 
 MD. 
 
Page 8 
 
 GDG 
 GDM 
 GRAPHIC 
 
 GRAPHIC DISPLAY 
 GENERATOR 
 
 Graphics Display Generator 
 
 Graphic Display Module 
 
 1. A physical or pictorial representation of data as 
 opposed to an alphanumeric representation. 2. In 
 display methods - lines or figures produced by vectors 
 or curves rather than by selections of fonts 
 (alphanumeric characters or symbols) . 
 
 The hardware which provides buffer storage in the CILS 
 of data (both graphic and alphanumeric) from the 
 computer. Using its own micro computer it reconverts 
 data, which has been compacted for disk storage, and 
 generates it for as many as three GDMs. 
 
 HARDWARE 
 
 HASP 
 
 All of the physical equipment which makes up the 
 computer. (As opposed to the software that tells it 
 what to do) . 
 
 Houstin Asynchronous System Processor 
 
 ICE 
 INDIRECT 
 
 INITIALIZE 
 
 INTERLEAVING 
 
 I/O 
 IPF 
 
 Interpartition Communications Executive 
 
 References other file contents, or commands, (e.g., if 
 an indirect file containing the names of other files is 
 called for use, the data accessed will be that 
 contained in the files named in the indirect file) . 
 
 In general - to begin or start. In AFOS - 1. To bring 
 a disk or diskette to its starting reference point so 
 that the locations of stored data can be kept track of. 
 2. To give a command which starts a sequence or series 
 of actions or responses. 3. To not only start a 
 program or operation but to start it from its initial 
 or beginning state, (i.e., as opposed to resuming it). 
 
 1. Inserting segments of one program into another 
 program to give the effect of executing two programs 
 simultaneously. 2. Inserting higher priority data 
 ahead of other data already awaiting transmission on a 
 first in-first out, by priority, basis. 
 
 Input/Output 
 
 Internal Product File 
 
Page 9 
 
 IXC SWITCH 
 
 Interstate Exchange switch 
 lines to isolate node. 
 
 - a switch in the telephone 
 
 JCL 
 
 Job Control Language 
 
 K 
 
 KB/P 
 
 KEYBOARD/PRINTER 
 PRINTER/KEYBOARD 
 
 1. 1024 (a number) , e.g., K bits= = 1024 bits 
 
 2. Keyboard (e.g.,AK). 
 
 Keyboard/Pr inter 
 
 In AFOS - the device used to communicate with the 
 minicomputer directly (one at a time in WSFO 
 configuration) . 
 
 MAP (ALSO MAPPING 
 AND MAPPED) 
 
 MAP BACKGROUND 
 
 MC 
 
 MCA 
 
 MCP 
 
 MEMORY 
 
 MINICOMPUTER 
 
 In data processing generally - to establish a 
 correspondence between the elements of one set and 
 another. In AFOS - memory allocation and protection. 
 An option of the eclipse computer allowing for ex- 
 pansion of CPU memory capabilities and for relocation 
 of program access as execution is occurring. Virtual 
 addresses (real time addresses) greater than 15 are 
 transformed into references to actual core memory 
 locations using all 96K of available memory. (The 
 effect is that although the CPU, due to memory word 
 size can only access 32K of core memory it is able to 
 use 96K of core (32K at a time controlled by the 
 mapping unit) . 
 
 The geographical reference field over which the data 
 fields are laid to construct a graphic chart, contains 
 latitude and longitude lines plus a geographical 
 outline with or without state and/or national borders. 
 
 Message Composition 
 
 Multiprocessor Communications Adapter 
 
 Message Composition Preformat 
 
 See STORAGE 
 
 A computer using a relatively small word size (12- 32 
 bits) and having a correspondingly restricted core 
 memory . 
 
Page 10 
 
 MMPU 
 MODEM 
 
 MRDOS 
 MULTIPLEXER 
 
 Memory Management and Protection Unit 
 
 Modulator - Demodulator - A device which converts data 
 from a form used with data processing equipment 
 (digital) to a form used with transmission facilities 
 (analog) and vice-versa. 
 
 Mapped Realtime Disk Operating System 
 
 1. A device used to transfer data from several 
 storage devices operating at relatively slow transfer 
 rates to one storage device operating at a high trans- 
 fer rate. In such a way that the high rate device does 
 not have to wait for the lower speed units. 
 2. A communications multiplexer - A link between the 
 processor and several communication line terminals, 
 handling both input and output from the terminals so as 
 to minimize processor waiting time. 
 
 NCC 
 NDC 
 NHC 
 NMC 
 NNN 
 
 NODE 
 
 NSSFC 
 NWWS 
 
 National Climatic Center 
 
 National Distribution Circuit 
 
 National Hurricane Center 
 
 National Meteorological Center 
 
 In the AFOS product identifier format - the general 
 form indicating an AFOS product category. 
 
 A data exchange point on the AFOS National Distribution 
 Circuit - A WSFO, National Center, or NMC-SMCC. 
 
 National Severe Storms Forecast Center 
 
 NOAA Weather Wire Service 
 
 I 
 
 ODG 
 
 OPERATOR CONSOLE 
 
 OS 
 
 Original Digital Guidance 
 
 The data/commmand entry 
 associated CRT displays. 
 
 Operating System 
 
 keyboard (ZENTEC) and 
 
 OVERLAY 
 
 On AFOS Displays - To superimpose one or more data 
 fields (or alphanumerics) over an original field and/or 
 map background (e.g. a 500mb contour field overlaid on 
 a 500mb temperature field and North American map 
 background) . 
 
Page 11 
 
 OWF 
 
 Original Worded Forecast 
 
 PAGE 
 
 PARITY 
 (PARITY CHECK) 
 
 PARTITION 
 
 PC 
 
 PIL 
 
 P/P 
 
 PPM 
 
 PROCEDURE 
 (UPPER CASE) 
 
 PROCEDURE 
 (LOWER CASE) 
 
 PROCESSOR 
 
 In the AFOS Category Inventory List - Products in this 
 category are normally stored in local data base but all 
 stored versions have been purged. 
 
 1. One Display Screen of data. 
 
 2. I.E. to PAGE through - To go from one screen's 
 worth of data to the next using the next page key or a 
 paging command. 
 
 Setting the eveness or oddness of the total number of 
 ones in a computer word by use of an extra bit (parity 
 bit) is setting its parity. A test for a particular 
 type of parity is made of each word as an error check. 
 For example, if even parity is designated for the 
 system, then parity bits in each word will be set so 
 that the total number of "ONE" bits in each word is an 
 even number. As each word is stored a check is made of 
 the sum of the binary digits in the word and of the 
 parity bit. If the sum is even the bit should be zero; 
 if the sum is odd, the bit should be one. if the word 
 has been altered in transmission, chances are good that 
 it will fail the parity check and be flagged as 
 erroneous. 
 
 1. To divide or separate 
 
 2. A software barrier between two areas of computer 
 program execution or computer resource priorities (e.g. 
 foreground and background) . 
 
 Printed Circuit 
 
 Product Inventory List 
 
 Printer/Plotter 
 
 Printer /Plotter Module 
 
 In AFOS - A program which allows the retrieval and 
 display of one or more products in a specific sequence 
 and at specific times. 
 
 The specific steps required to accomplish a task. 
 
 A device capable of receiving data, manipulating it, 
 and supplying results, usually from an internally 
 stored program. 
 
 2. Shorthand for an automatic data processor or 
 arithmetic unit. 
 
Page 12 
 
 PROGRAM 
 
 1. A plan for the automated solution of a program. 
 
 2. A set of instuctions or steps that tells the 
 computer exactly what to do to resolve a given problem 
 or to achieve a desired result. 
 
 QUEUE 
 
 1. A waiting line or list made up of items in a system 
 awaiting processing or transmission. 
 
 2. To place in a line or queue. 
 
 RAS 
 RDO 
 RDOS 
 REBOOT 
 
 REMOTE STATION 
 
 RESTART 
 
 RFC 
 ROUTINE 
 
 RTC 
 
 Remote Assistance Section 
 
 River District Office 
 
 Realtime Disk Operating System 
 
 To repeat the booting (bootstrapping) process in order 
 to recover from a computer crash. 
 
 In AFOS - A station that has input, message 
 composition, and display capability but uses a computer 
 at another station. 
 
 The portion of the rebooting procedure in which the 
 AFOS program is initiated. 
 
 River Forecast Center 
 
 An ordered set of computer program instructions that 
 may have a general or frequent usefulness to a number 
 of different programs; or, which may be accessed 
 several times by a single program. 
 
 Real Time Clock . 
 
 SDC 
 
 SIM 
 
 SMCC 
 
 SOFTWARE 
 
 State Distribution Circuit (occasionally called a Star 
 Network) . 
 
 Synchronous Line Multipleror 
 
 System Monitoring and Coordination Center 
 
 The set of programs, procedures, and, possible, assoc- 
 iated documentation controlling and describing the 
 operation of a data processing system. 
 
Page 13 
 
 STORAGE 
 
 SYNCHRONOUS 
 
 "SYSTEM ERROR" 
 MESSAGE 
 
 SYSTEM ERRORS 
 
 1. Any device capable of retaining data 
 
 2. Any device into which data can be copied, held, and 
 recovered on demand at some later time. 
 
 In AFOS Data Transmission - Continous transmission with 
 regular timing (as opposed to the start-stop process of 
 asynchronous transmission) . The bits of one character 
 are immediately followed by those of the next without 
 the use of start and stop bits or pauses. The 
 character stream is divided into blocks of fixed length 
 with sychronization signals ahead of a block and error 
 checking signals at the end. (Block sizes vary from 
 system to system) . 
 
 1. A message retrieved from the system error log after 
 the audio alarm key is pressed, when "system error" is 
 displayed on line 24 of the alphanumeric display 
 screen. 
 
 2. A statement in the system error log indicating that 
 something has occured which prevents the system from 
 functioning properly, or, which prevents the system 
 from obeying an operator command (e.g. trying to 
 archive a product already archived) . 
 
 Hardware, software, or operator input command, problems 
 or failures which prevent the system from performing as 
 instructed. 
 
 TAP 
 TELCO 
 
 Terminal Alert Procedure 
 Telephone Company 
 
 WORD 
 
 1. A set of characters that occupies one storage 
 location and is treated as a unit by computer circuits 
 (an instruction or quanity) . 
 
 2. A unit of data 
 
 3. In data transmission (teletype) - five characters 
 plus one space or six key strokes. 
 
 XXX 
 
 (UPPER OR LOWER 
 CASE). 
 
 In AFOS product identifier format - The general form 
 of a product designator (frequently a three character 
 location identifier) . 
 
Page 14 
 
 ZENTEC Product name of the AFOS keyboard with internal 
 
 microcomputer which is used at the operator console. 
 
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PENN STATE UNIVERSITY LIBRARIES 
 
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