Computer history TNO-FEL:
ETA10-P

ETA10-P in a fancy black outfit

ETA 10 functional diagram

All models in the family of ETA10 supercomputers were based on the same architecture as shown in the diagram above.

• The ETA10 had, depending on model and type, from one to eight central processing units (CPUs), depending on model selection.
• Each CPU includes both a scalar processor and a vector processor:
  • The scalar processor is characterized by independent, segmented, functional units, a 256-word high-speed register file, and a 64-word instruction stack.
  • The vector processor operates in parallel with the scalar processor and the input/ output channels.
  • The vector processor can link the result of one vector to the input of the next vector instruction, thereby performing two operations on the input stream vector data.
• Each CPU has four million 64-bit words of central processor (CP) memory.
• Shared memory provides a large storage area that can be accessed by all system processors, and is available in sizes from 8 million to 256 million 64-bit words, depending on model selection.
• The communication buffer provides a very high-speed memory common to all processors that allows them to communicate and coordinate activities.
• 1 to 18 input/output units connect the ETA10 to peripherals and networks,
• The service unit, a ring of Apollo DN3000 workstations and DSP90 server modes, provides the operator and maintenance interface.
• The ETA10 operates with a standard 64 bit word length, optional 32-bit mode essentially doubles memory capacity and vector speed, 128-bit double precision mode is also available.
• The ETA10 can be readily field upgraded to incorporate more memory or processing power.

ETA 10 models

At the moment the decision to stop ETA was announced (April 17, 1989), 7 LN2 and 27 air-cooled systems were installed at sites. In the Netherlands three single and double processor air cooled ETA10 systems were installed at RUG, ENR and TNO-FEL.

ETA10-P ("Piper #23") at TNO-FEL

I/O unit and disk cabinet (right)