Abstract:
A mechanism is disclosed for making complex record searches in random access storage devices. A plurality of parameter values, for example, the department number, age, years of service, are each compared in succession with upper and lower limit parameter values. The parameter values are found in each record by the use of a beginning address of the byte in the record at which the parameter value begins and by a byte count value which is equal to the number of bytes required to define the parameter. A plurality of logical operators associated with each parameter define combinations of parameter tests which must be met in order to satisfy the search criteria.
Abstract:
A file protection circuit for disc storage control units prevents unauthorized users from obtaining information from a bulk disc storage unit. Each transfer from the sequentially addressable buffer within the storage control unit is monitored so as to determine whether the data sought from the sequentially addressable buffer is from a protected field. Upon determining that the data is from a protected field, the data transfer from the sequentially addressable buffer to the main memory of the data processor is prevented. The subsequent data transfers are counted by a counting mechanism so as to prevent the transfer of a predetermined number of bytes or characters. When the counting means reaches a predetermined value, the blocking mechanism is inhibited and further transfers from the sequentially addressable buffer to the main memory are allowed.