The rope memory: a permanent storage device

A powerful way of increasing the capability and flexibility of digital computing systems is through the use of permanent storage memories. Such memories are also known as readonly memories or NDRO electrically unalterable memories. As an example of the application of a permanent memory, consider a computer used for control purposes. Generally, such systems are physically small, relatively inexpensive, and are not required to perform a variety but rather a restricted category of computations. The problem of program and constant input and storage in such systems is considerable. Permanent memory can satisfy the input and storage function required in such a system in an inexpensive manner. It can, furthermore, be packaged in such a manner as to minimize volume requirements; in any event, the volume occupied by the store for such an application is less than that required for tape or other inputs. In both large and small scale computers, permanent memory can be used for the storage of supervisory routines, input/output function routines, and, in the case of the rope memory, performing logic.