Decitek Reader and Remix punch

[Ashley Carder]

Today I obtained a Genrad 1797 programming station.  It consists of a PDP-8a, 3 RK05s, a Decitek paper tape reader, a Remix paper tape punch, and a Genrad interface unit.  Also with the system is a DecWriter III and 3 RK05 16 sector packs, as well as an alignment pack.

I have not begun to study the system yet.  Quick questions:

1) The Decitek reader appears to have a serial (EIA / RS232) interface.  Can someone point me to some documentaion on how this might be interfaced to a PDP-11?

2) Same question as #1, but for the Remix paper tape punch

3) What were these GenRad programming stations used for?

4) What is the purpose of the GenRad 1795-3010 interface unit?

BTW, the system looks to be in good condition and was said to be running before it was decomssioned just a few months ago.  Once I get a 30A 4-prong receptacle installed for it, I'll fire it up and see what it's all about.  There is a boot pack for it.

Any help or pointers on where to find information on the Decitek reader, Remix punch, and GenRad equipment in general would be greatly appreciated.

Thanks,
Ashley