Run Some Tests

Chris DavisFun Things To Do

While not as sexy as some other applications, here are two programs that will make sure your Altair 8800 (or, rather the emulation software) is up-to-snuff.

Requirements:
Terminal software (Putty is highly recommended.)

CPU Diagnostic

Written By: Microcosm Associates
When: 1980

Step-by-Step:

  1. Stop whatever the Altair is doing – raise “Stop”, then raise “Reset”.
  2. To load CPU Diagnostic – switch 3 up, switch 1 up, switch 0 up (all others down).
  3. AUX1 down. This will load CPU Diagnostic from Arduino memory into Altair memory and start.
  4. The test only take about one second, then “CPU IS OPERATIONAL” will display on the terminal.

CPU Exercizer

Written By: Frank D. Cringle
When: 1994

Step-by-Step:

  1. Stop whatever the Altair is doing – raise “Stop”, then raise “Reset”.
  2. To load CPU Exerciser – switch 3 up, switch 2 up (all others down).
  3. AUX1 down. This will load CPU Exerciser from Arduino memory into Altair memory and start.
  4. The test takes several hours, displaying results of each test on the terminal.