Re: Computers in Traveller

Regarding "fibre-optic" backup, I read that as yet another unintentional
mis-use of terminology (how many of you remember the article in an early
JTAS that had "copper-based hemoglobin"?)

I merely assume that the backup is "really" a backup computer based on
optical circuitry rather than electronic. They're starting to build
such stuff now (at about RTL logic equivalent).

Or they might be using TIMMS (Thermally Integrated Micro Modules?). These
are basicly the *tube* equivalent of integrated circuits. They're made
of ceramics and high temperature metals. No filaments or "heaters". You
put this "block in an oven and heat to a few hundred degrees! (these
were used for radiation hardened equipment in the '60s).

Neither of the above would pay much attention to radiation levels that
would kill the crew. BTW it isn't necessarily the EMP that kills semi-
conductor based equipment. Radaition does funny things to PN junctions.

As for the size/cost/etc of computers in Traveller, pay close attention
to just what their idea of a computer is. Even the "simple" programs are
more than I'd care to try on even a 68000 or 80386 machine. Navigate is
doing *real-time* multi-body orbit and trajectory calculations involving
object that are manuvering under power. That ain't simple! Not to the
accuracy you need to keep from hitting another ship while making your approach
to the Starport.

Size has been argued before. much out it may merely be the space required to
let you get at it. Figure out how much space a "normal" PC takes up if you
include the desk and chair...