TOPS-10 LINK Reference Manual

This document is the reference manual for LINK, the linking loader for the TOPS-10 operating system (Version 7.03), specifically for LINK-10 Version 6.0.

Summary: The manual provides comprehensive instructions for using the LINK program, which merges independently compiled or assembled object modules (REL files) into a single executable program (core image). It details the three primary functions of LINK: relocation calculations, resolving global symbol references (including library searches), and producing an executable program with runtime symbol information.

Key topics covered include:

• Modes of operation: How to invoke LINK automatically using system commands (LOAD, EXECUTE, DEBUG) or directly via the monitor (R LINK) for more complex tasks.
• Command syntax: Detailed information on command strings, file specifications, and the wide range of switches available for controlling the linking and loading process.
• Output: Descriptions of the various output files produced by LINK, including executable (.EXE) files, map files, log files, and symbol files.
• Overlays: An extensive section on managing programs that exceed memory limits by using an overlay structure, including the overlay handler and its subroutines (CLROV, GETOV, INIOV, etc.).
• PSECTs: Information on using Program SECTions for memory structuring and extended addressing.
• Technical Appendices: Detailed specifications for REL Blocks, which form the binary input/output format for LINK, and a comprehensive list of LINK error and informational messages.