12 Jun
2003
12 Jun
'03
3:06 p.m.
On Thu, 12 Jun 2003, Tore Sinding Bekkedal wrote:
I recently found a computer to which I have never seen
likes: The
Siemens 6-611. Although I'm just getting started within serious
collecting, this is an interesting machine.
It features more than one 80851 (I counted 4), A Z84, and a bunch of
AY-something chips. It has a v. large mainboard.
It has a console I think is serial, with a wierd textile covering the
CRT. The console is also labelled 6-611. The keyboard features
indicators like ACK and a sexiful key. The monitor powers up, beeps, and
the OK light on the KB lights up.
Mass storage is an 8" drive, and a large HDD, 8" style. It has two
separate power connectors, one for the hard drive logic, one for the
motor and mechanics.
Upon powerup, smoke erupted from the powersupply, which I think were
filter caps. (ARGH, the SMELL!) The system worked fine after that. The
monitor has a power switch and AC out for the system, which doesn't. The
monitor also regulates the power to 230v (In comparison to 235v in
Norway.)
I lacked the cable from the console to the machine at that time, a
standard serial cable, DB-9.
This may be one of their early building automation system computers.
I've never had the chance to see one of the Siemens systems, but the JC80
I'm still gathering parts for could also be configured to use similar
storage means.
The DB-9 port you describe may not be for a console. Many of the
automation systems were designed to communicate with other devices and/or
computers, one of which might have provided the means to program the
system. Usually such automation system computers would be programmed and
run for very long periods without anyone needing to change their program.
Pictures?
-Toth