System Unit - IBM 5531 Operator's Manual

System Unit
The most important part of the IBM 5531 Industrial Computer is the system unit. The system
unit controls the operation of your system.
It
accomplishes this through sets of instructions
called programs.
Many of the programs for the 5531 are written in IBM BASIC, a programming language that is
already installed in your system. You can also use several other IBM-supported programming
languages to write your own programs. You should have an understanding of fundamental
programming concepts if you intend to write programs. Various program packages available
from your industrial dealer will also help you meet a variety of business and personal needs.
The system unit stores data on either a fixed disk drive or on the diskettes that are used in the
diskette drive. The system unit allows you to retrieve data stored on a fixed disk or on a
diskette. The set of programs that controls such operations is known as an operating system, an
example of which is the IBM Disk Operating System (DOS). The reference manuals IBM Disk
Operating System (DOS) and IBM BASIC describe the commands that allow you to store or
retrieve information. If you choose to write your own operating system, refer to the IBM 5531
Industrial Computer Technical Reference.
The system unit contains at least one diskette drive (referred to as drive A), a Diskette Drive
Adapter, and a Combination Adapter.
The Diskette Drive Adapter allows you to use the dual-sided diskette drive that is installed in the
system unit.
The Combination Adapter allows you to use asynchronous communications and/or attach a
printer to the system unit. This adapter comes configured for primary communications
operation and RS-232C asynchronous communications. If you use any other type of
communications, you must have the appropriate communications adapter installed. For
information on available communications options, see your place of purchase.
For a listing of options or adapters, refer to "Options or Adapters for the IBM 5531 Industrial
Computer" near the end of this chapter.
Chapter 1. Introducing the IBM 5531 Industrial Computer
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