gtpc3m0pConcepts and Structures

TPF System Structural Characteristics

One of the problems of documenting anything is related to the use of descriptive information to discuss real objects, such as the TPF system. The descriptive information is used to discuss the reality, but it is not reality. Reality, in terms of the TPF system, may be found on the assembled listing of code, by looking at bits on a disk drive, by observing an operator start an initial program load (IPL), by watching an operator mount a tape, by watching end users at remote terminals or workstations, or by following the electrons in an I-stream engine. Although these things represent the real thing, it is a tedious way to learn about the system. Therefore, descriptive information is used that allows a more concise abstraction of the real thing. A control diagram is useful for introducing the control structure of the TPF system within the framework of following the flow of a message through the system.