The PDP-16 (Programmed Data Processor-16)[1][2] was mainly intended for industrial control systems, but with more capability than DEC's PDP-14.
The PDP-16 family of modules was introduced in 1971,[3] and a pre-assembled system using these modules, the PDP-16/M[4][5] was introduced in 1972.[3] The 16/M was nicknamed "Subminicomputer" and described as "a small microprogrammable computer."[4]
The general-purpose modules included:
The control structure was similar to a flow chart, which was very familiar to software developers. As a result, the PDP-16 opened up digital system design to those with experience writing software but less hardware design experience than was traditionally required for this work.
These modules were in the company's M series of Flip-Chip modules, which used TTL circuit technology.
The economic strength of the PDP-16 was that it was effective "for designing unique (or relatively low production volume) systems."[4]
The PDP-16 did exist and was sold, and was designed using DEC's Register Transfer Modules (RTMs).
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