"Plamya-KV" mission computer core rope memory cassette

The ROM cassette is an element of the ferrite ROM of the "Plamya-KV" onboard computer from the S-200 air defense system (NATO reporting name SA-5 Gammon). The computer consisted of two identical ROMs with eight cassettes, each containing the program for solving the problem and all the initial data. Each ROM could store 4096 of 16-bit words (8 kilobytes), while each cassette could store 512 words (1 kilobyte). The access time was 16 microseconds, and the sampling time was 4 microseconds. The printed circuit board with the parts of the ROM cassette is fixed in a metal frame, on which there are four plugs from the connector to the rack. Plugs are duplicated for reliable connection. ROM cassettes are inserted into a metal frame from which they are removed with a special key.

Internal structure and specifications

The board contains 128 memory cells, consisting of a memory transformer and an output diode. All storage transformers form a matrix of 8 horizontal and 16 vertical rows, and every 8 transformers are made in a single case - a cell of the core block. It is made of HM-1500 type soft magnetic material and structurally consists of two parts - a holder and a yoke. The yoke is the upper removable part of the magnetic circuit of the core block. It fits snugly into the cage by means of two springs and bolts holding them. The clip is the lower part. It consists of a case, inside which there are storage transformers (in the form of pins, two rows of four, eight in total), around which a code wire is laid.

In addition to the memory cells, the board contains transistors for control keys for group selection, wire selection and number selection, current stabilization resistors, capacitors for increasing the amplitude and duration of the output pulse. On the back side of the printed circuit board, tinning is applied the inscription (in Russian) "ROM Cassette", production number, operating voltage values and pin numbers. In addition, there is a handwritten inscription "STAND".

Additional information

Cassette developed by Central Design Bureau number 17 (now the St. Petersburg concern "Vega") and concern "Almaz-Antey." "Vega" developed the cassette itself, and "Almaz-Antey" was responsible for integration with the S-200 system. Maked is 1965.

Full technical documentation for the "Plamya-KV" onboard computer can be downloaded at the site dedicated to the air defense system S-200 (in Russian).

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