Digital introduced the first of a series of VAX computer systems in 1978 with the release of the VAX-11/780 processor.  The system attributes included virtual memory addressing, an extensive instruction set, general purpose internal registers and a versatile interrupt priority scheme,  To support the system applications, a comprehensive and powerful memory management systems was developed.  The VAX/VMS (Virtual Memory System) software provided a new functional software environment for realtime, timesharing, batch processing, and program development.  Coupled with the VAX/VMS system, a broad range of high-performance languages that use the VAX instruction set were developed.

As computer technology advanced and software development progressed, Digital followed with the release of the VAX-11/750 and VAX-11/730 computer systems.  These systems included the same accepted VAX architecture and VAX/VMS software but were physically smaller in size and lower in costs.

Now, the MicroVAX I, the first in the family of MicroVAX processors, answers the need for a small powerful VAX system for many applications.  Still included are the same VAX hardware and software attributes that have become a standard in the industry, but in a small package and at a lower cost.  Applications that were previously restricted by financial or physical limitations are now possible using the MicroVAX systems. 

The MicroVAX I processor brings the responsiveness of the VAX architecture and event-driven operating systems to a new, flexible mechanical design that can be easily integrated into your instrumental , control, or data acquisition application.

Topics covered in the Handbook are: Introduction, MicroVAX I System Description, Terminals and Communications, Operating and Development Systems, MicroVAX Architecture Summary, Networks and Communications, MicroVAX Q22 Bus Operation, System Configuration Guide, Planning and Site Preparation, and Glossary.  There are four Appendices:  A: MicroVAX Instruction set, B: MicroVAX System Specifications. C: System Control Block Addresses and D: MicroVAX I Console Commands.