On 2021-07-30 9:39 p.m., Chuck Guzis via cctalk wrote:
One of the shortcomings of the MT/ST when compared to word processors is
the lack of a good "mailmerge" option. You could code a stop code on
the tape, where the typewriter would allow for manual fill-in-the-blanks
operation, but that gets pretty cumbersome when dealing with hundreds of
copies.
Superseded by the MC/ST system, the "mag card" Selectric in 1969. Far
more convenient and better integrated into the typewriter itself (no
separate keypad). The MC/ST II in 1973 introduced the ability to
"batch" up to 50 cards.
Here's a promo film from the period, narrated by the guy driving his
road yacht with the AM radio and chatting about it.
https://youtu.be/bW_jJjUarp0
--Chuck
The MT/ST did pretty good for being a electro-mechanical device,all the
logic was relays in it. I seem to recall many years ago one of the old
OP guys telling me that it write in stripes across the tape. It would
have to be some very simple format because it would be hard to have the
thing sync on headers with only a little relay logic.
The mag card machines had the advantage of by the time it came along
electronics was a lot more compact so they could stuff a much more
capable controller in the box. Towards the end of the mag card days
there was even a machine that had a daisy wheel typewriter on it.
Paul.
