The Random-Access Memory Accounting Machine—I. System Organization of the IBM 305

The design features of a new automatic data processing machine for business applications, utilizing a random-access memory system, are described. Unlike the usual “batch” method of machine-processing business transactions, the technique used permits transfer of information between any two points in the system and allows multi-choice decisions according to the current status of the information. The “in-line” operational concept is discussed in detail and the data transfer routes and processing controls are shown. Employing punched-card input and printed-record output, the IBM 305 accounting machine is designed to handle 10,000 line-transactions per day.