DOCUMENT SORTER APPARATUS

Document sorting apparatus for sorting documents having data characters recorded thereon into a selected one of a plurality of storage pockets depending upon the data characters. Sorter controllers, each associated with a pre-determined number of the storage pockets, are provided for controlling the gate mechanisms of the storage pockets within their respective control areas so as to direct the document into the selected one of the pockets. The sorter controllers comprise single cycle processors which execute program instructions stored in memory in implementing document tracking functions. Further, the sorter controllers are responsive to destination and sequential tracking numbers assigned to each document by a central processor for recognizing a document as being intended for a pocket within its control area.