PDP-K Initial Cost Considerations

This document, a technical memorandum from March 31, 1970, details initial manufacturing cost considerations for the proposed PDP-K computer. The primary objective was to evaluate the economics of integrating processor elements, focusing on the use of high-speed TTL technology to reduce costs compared to ECL. The memo discusses the concept of a microprogrammable machine utilizing ROM and RAM as integral components, including a sub-level processor. It provides a flow diagram (Figure 1), analyzes a register-to-register transfer subroutine, and estimates timing for memory operations. The document concludes by outlining upcoming cost estimation goals for various system components, including the power supply and cabinet.