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\chapter{Introduction}\sectlabel{intro}

\Step\ is an indefinitely scalable multiprocessor architecture
optimized for the fine-grained simulations of physical systems.  From
a functional viewpoint, the \step\ architecture can be thought of as
a spatially-extended, uniform, fine-grained medium of a rather general
and abstract nature.  Specific behavior is obtained by specifying the
medium's connectivity and dynamical properties, and assigning its
initial state.  In this sense, \step\ embodies the metaphor of
``programmable matter''.

\section{Scope of this manual}

The present \HR\ documents \step's electronic, electrical, and mechanical
hardware at a level appropriate for the following purposes
 \begin{itemize}
	\item Identifying the basic function of the different parts of a \cam\
unit, and comprehending the principles of operation of functional blocks at
different levels.
	\item Assembling and configuring a \cam\ unit from manufactured
subassemblies (enclosure, modules, cables, host, \io\ devices).
	\item Locating components, identifying pins, and tracing signals on
boards, connectors, and cables, as needed for diagnosing malfunctions
or verifying the hardware response of software commands.
 \end{itemize}
	The manual does not discuss issues of design methodology, detailed
electrical and timing parameters, mechanical tolerances, or other details
that properly belong to the design stage. The emphasis is on information
relevant for the \emph{use} of the existing design.

\section{Complementary documentation}

The \AR\ discusses those functional and structural aspects of the \step\
architecture that are of interest to the planner, the programmer, and the
sophisticated user.  A cursory reading of that manual is a prerequisite
for the reading of the other manuals, including the present one.

The \SR\ documents \step's system software and programming language,
primarily addressing the needs of the applications programmer.

The \FR\ is a collection of reference documents (parts lists, manufacturers
lists, schematics, PCB artwork, mechanical drawings, pinout templates, data
sheets, etc.) useful for ordering separate parts, planning design
modfications, or planning the fabrication of a batch of \cam\ units of a
given size.

The \UG\ is as programming tutorial that addresses the first concerns of the
typical \step\ user. It goes through simple applications in a step-by-step
fashion, introducing programming constructs and techniques as they are
needed and discussing methodological approaches appropriate to the
\step\ modeling medium.


\section{Organization of this manual}

\section{Conventions}

\input ../+conventions.tex
