Digital Equipment DEC 3000 500X AXP Owner's Manual
DEC3000Model500XAXP
Owner’sGuide
Order Number: EK-D5AXP-OG. A01
Digital Equipment Corporation, Maynard, Massachusetts
First Printing, March, 1993
© Digital Equipment Corporation 1993.
All Rights Reserved.
No responsibility is assumed for the use or reliability of software on equipment
that is not supplied by Digital Equipment Corporation or its affiliated
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FCC NOTICE: This equipment has been tested and found to comply with
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These limits are designed to provide reasonable protection against harmful
interference when the equipment is operated in a commercial environment.
This equipment generates, uses, and can radiate radio frequency energy and, if
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S2234
This document is available on CD–ROM.
This document was prepared using VAX DOCUMENT, Version 2.1.
Contents
Preface ..................................................... xiii
Part I Basic Operations
1 Introduction to Your System
Chapter Overview . ................................... 1–1
An Overview of the DEC 3000 Model 500X AXP System ...... 1–2
Operating Systems ................................... 1–4
Software Product Descriptions (SPD) . . ................... 1–6
Graphics Capabilities ................................. 1–6
Integrated Services Digital Network (ISDN) ................ 1–9
Audio Capabilities . ................................... 1–10
Available Options . ................................... 1–11
2 Preparing to Install the System
Chapter Overview . ................................... 2–1
Choosing a Location .................................. 2–2
Customizing Your Work Area ........................... 2–4
Moving Your System .................................. 2–6
Unpacking Your System ............................... 2–8
A Closer Look at Your System .......................... 2–11
Where to Go Next . ................................... 2–16
iii
3 Installing the System
Chapter Overview . ................................... 3–1
Before You Begin . . ................................... 3–2
Task Overview . . . ................................... 3–3
Connecting the DEC 3000 Model 500X AXP Workstation ...... 3–5
System Unit Cover Lock ............................... 3–17
Checking Your Installation . . ........................... 3–20
Where to Go Next . ................................... 3–21
4 Connecting the System to a Network
Chapter Overview . ................................... 4–1
Before You Begin . . ................................... 4–2
Connecting to an AUI Ethernet Network .................. 4–4
Connecting to a 10BASE-T Network . . . ................... 4–6
Connecting to a ThinWire Network ....................... 4–8
Setting and Verifying the Network Connection .............. 4–12
Completing the Network Connection . . ................... 4–14
5 Starting Up the System
Chapter Overview . ................................... 5–1
Before You Begin . . ................................... 5–2
Turning On the DEC 3000 Model 500X AXP System ......... 5–3
Reviewing the Startup Display .......................... 5–6
Starting a System with Factory-Installed Software .......... 5–8
Loading Operating System Software . . . ................... 5–13
Where to Go Next . ................................... 5–14
6 Turning Off the System
Chapter Overview . ................................... 6–1
Before You Begin . . ................................... 6–2
Task Overview . . . ................................... 6–3
Shutting Down the System . . ........................... 6–3
Halting the System ................................... 6–5
iv
7 Maintaining the System
Chapter Overview . ................................... 7–1
Before You Begin . . ................................... 7–2
Maintaining the System Unit and Keyboard ................ 7–2
Cleaning the Monitor ................................. 7–4
Cleaning the Mouse .................................. 7–4
Removing the Front Access Door ........................ 7–6
Part II Advanced Operations
8 Using Console Commands
Chapter Overview . ................................... 8–1
Before You Begin . . ................................... 8–2
Modes of System Operation . ........................... 8–3
Console Mode User Interface ........................... 8–4
Console Commands ................................... 8–6
The boot Command ................................... 8–8
The continue Command ............................... 8–11
The halt Command ................................... 8–11
The help Command ................................... 8–12
The help advanced Command ........................... 8–13
The set or setenv Command . ........................... 8–14
The show or printenv Command ......................... 8–15
The test Command ................................... 8–16
9 Changing Environment Variables
Chapter Overview . ................................... 9–1
Before You Begin . . ................................... 9–2
Available Environment Variables ........................ 9–2
Displaying Current Environment Variables ................ 9–4
Changing the Default Startup Action (auto_action) .......... 9–5
Changing the Default Boot Device (bootdef_dev) . . . .......... 9–7
Changing the Default Diagnostic Startup Mode (diag_quick) . . . 9–9
Changing the Default Keyboard Language (language) ........ 9–10
v
10 Using the Password Security Feature
Chapter Overview . ................................... 10–1
Before You Can Use This Chapter ....................... 10–2
Before You Begin . . ................................... 10–3
Task Overview . . . ................................... 10–5
Entering a Password .................................. 10–5
Enabling System Security . . . ........................... 10–7
Forgetting the Password ............................... 10–8
Disabling or Changing the Password . . ................... 10–9
11 Using an Alternate Console
Chapter Overview . ................................... 11–1
Before You Begin . . ................................... 11–2
Using the Alternate Console Feature . . ................... 11–3
Part III Handling Problems
12 Identifying a Problem
Chapter Overview . ................................... 12–1
Before You Begin . . ................................... 12–2
Task Overview . . . ................................... 12–3
Determining Type of Problem ........................... 12–4
Startup Problems . ................................... 12–6
Interpreting the show Command Display .................. 12–12
Display Problems . ................................... 12–21
Daily Operations Problems . . ........................... 12–24
SCSI Device Problems ................................. 12–25
Network Problems ................................... 12–28
Where to Go Next . ................................... 12–29
13 Running Diagnostic Tests
Chapter Overview . ................................... 13–1
Before You Begin . . ................................... 13–2
Task Overview . . . ................................... 13–3
Running Diagnostic Tests . . . ........................... 13–4
Recording the Diagnostic Display Light Pattern . . . .......... 13–8
Reporting Problems to Digital Services . ................... 13–10
Handling Problems Worksheet .......................... 13–16
vi
Part IV Appendixes
A Hardware Specifications
Appendix Overview ................................... A–1
System Specifications ................................. A–2
B Port Pin-outs
Appendix Overview ................................... B–1
Alternate Console/Printer Port .......................... B–2
Synchronous/Asynchronous Communications Port . .......... B–3
External SCSI Port ................................... B–5
Keyboard/Mouse or Tablet Port .......................... B–7
AUI Ethernet Port ................................... B–8
ISDN Port .......................................... B–10
10BASE-T Port . . . ................................... B–11
Audio Port .......................................... B–12
C European Economic Community (EEC) Considerations
Appendix Overview ................................... C–1
EEC Installation Instructions for Nonshielded Cables ........ C–2
D Associated Documents
Appendix Overview ................................... D–1
Associated Printed Documents .......................... D–2
OpenVMS AXP Documentation .......................... D–5
DEC OSF/1 AXP Documentation ........................ D–6
E Special Information for PTT Network Users
Appendix Overview ................................... E–1
Service Categories . ................................... E–2
Host Power Rating ................................... E–3
Module Isolation . . ................................... E–4
Safety Warnings for UK Installations Only ................. E–5
Cable Approval . . . ................................... E–7
Supported Cables . ................................... E–8
Equipment Between the Approved Module and a Digital Circuit
(PTT) . . ........................................... E–9
vii
Glossary
Index
Figures
1–1 The DEC 3000 Model 500X AXP Workstation . . .......... 1–2
1–2 Audio Ports on the DEC 3000 Model 500X AXP .......... 1–10
2–1 Dimensions of System . . . ........................... 2–2
2–2 Positioning Components . . ........................... 2–4
2–3 The DEC 3000 Model 500X AXP System Handle ......... 2–6
2–4 Lifting the DEC 3000 Model 500X AXP ................. 2–7
2–5 Required Workstation Components and Parts . . .......... 2–9
2–6 Components and Parts to Save ....................... 2–10
2–7 Back of System Unit ............................... 2–12
2–8 Front of System Unit ............................... 2–14
3–1 Parts Needed to Install Your Workstation ............... 3–3
3–2 Attaching the Ethernet Loopback Connector . . . .......... 3–5
3–3 Connecting the Keyboard/Mouse Extension Cable ......... 3–6
3–4 Connecting the Keyboard and Mouse to the Keyboard/Mouse
Extension Cable ................................... 3–7
3–5 Connecting the Universal Strain Relief Strap . . .......... 3–9
3–6 Connecting the Monitor Video Cable ................... 3–12
3–7 Factory-Installed Software Sticker . . ................... 3–13
3–8 Connecting the System Power Cord to System. . .......... 3–14
3–9 Checking the Video Refresh Switch . ................... 3–15
3–10 Checking the Alternate Console Switch ................. 3–16
3–11 System Unit Cover Keys . ........................... 3–17
3–12 Locking the System Unit Cover ....................... 3–19
3–13 A Connected Workstation . ........................... 3–20
4–1 Connecting to an AUI Ethernet Network ................ 4–5
4–2 Connecting a 10BASE-T Network Cable ................ 4–7
4–3 Connecting the AUI Ethernet Cable to the DECXM
Transceiver or a DESTA Unit ........................ 4–9
4–4 Connecting the ThinWire Cables and T-Connector to the
DECXM Transceiver or a DESTA Unit ................. 4–10
4–5 Terminating the Ethernet Connection .................. 4–11
viii
5–1 Turning On the DEC 3000 Model 500X AXP System ....... 5–5
5–2 Startup Display ................................... 5–6
5–3 OpenVMS AXP Initial Startup Display ................. 5–9
5–4 OpenVMS AXP DECwindows Motif Start Session Screen . . . 5–10
5–5 DEC OSF/1 AXP Initial Startup Display ................ 5–11
5–6 DEC OSF/1 AXP DECwindows Motif Start Session
Screen .......................................... 5–12
6–1 Turning Off the System Unit ........................ 6–4
6–2 Pressing the Halt Button . ........................... 6–6
6–3 System Halt Message ............................... 6–7
7–1 Removing/Replacing the Mouse Cover Plate . . . .......... 7–5
7–2 Removing the Front Access Door . . . ................... 7–7
9–1 The show device Display . ........................... 9–8
11–1 Attaching a Device to the
Alternate Console/Printer Port........................ 11–4
11–2 Changing the Alternate Console Switch ................. 11–5
12–1 Power Indicator Light . . . ........................... 12–7
12–2 Startup Display with Error .......................... 12–9
12–3 Configuration Display with Error. . . ................... 12–13
12–4 The show device Display . ........................... 12–15
12–5 The show error Display . . ........................... 12–19
12–6 The show memory Display .......................... 12–20
13–1 SCC Diagnostic Test Display ......................... 13–5
13–2 SCC Test Display with Error ......................... 13–6
13–3 Initializing Your System. . ........................... 13–7
13–4 Initializing the System with the SCC Test ............... 13–7
13–5 Position of Diagnostic Display Lights ................... 13–8
13–6 Console Mode Diagnostic Lights . . . ................... 13–9
13–7 Serial and Model Numbers .......................... 13–11
13–8 Connecting the 10BASE-T Loopback Connector . .......... 13–13
13–9 Connecting the Alternate Console/Printer Loopback
Connector ........................................ 13–14
13–10 Connecting the Modem Loopback Connector . . . .......... 13–15
B–1 Alternate Console/Printer Port........................ B–2
B–2 Synchronous/Asynchronous Communications Port......... B–3
B–3 External SCSI Port ................................ B–5
B–4 Keyboard/Mouse or Tablet Port ....................... B–7
ix
B–5 AUI Ethernet Port ................................. B–8
B–6 ISDN Port ....................................... B–10
B–7 10BASE-T Port ................................... B–11
B–8 Audio Port ....................................... B–12
C–1 Connecting a Pigtail Grounding Wire .................. C–3
E–1 Front View ....................................... E–6
E–2 Connector Pin Layout . . . ........................... E–7
Tables
1 Parts Description .................................. xiii
1–1 Graphics Capabilities for OpenVMS AXP ............... 1–7
1–2 Graphics Capabilities for DEC OSF/1 AXP .............. 1–8
1–3 Setting Up Multiple Graphics Devices .................. 1–8
2–1 Positioning Your System Components .................. 2–5
2–2 Back of the System Unit . ........................... 2–13
2–3 Front of the System Unit . ........................... 2–15
2–4 Where to Go Next ................................. 2–16
3–1 Steps to Install Your DEC 3000 Model 500X AXP
Workstation . . . ................................... 3–4
3–2 Making Monitor Connectors .......................... 3–10
3–3 Connecting the Monitor Cords ........................ 3–11
3–4 Where to Go Next ................................. 3–21
4–1 Required Network Cables ........................... 4–3
4–2 Steps for Connecting an AUI Ethernet Network .......... 4–4
4–3 Steps for Connecting a ThinWire Ethernet Network ....... 4–8
4–4 DECXM and DESTA Documentation ................... 4–11
4–5 Network Settings .................................. 4–12
5–1 Steps for Starting Your System ....................... 5–4
5–2 Startup Display Information ......................... 5–7
5–3 Factory-Installed Software Documentation .............. 5–8
5–4 Start the Operating System .......................... 5–13
5–5 Where to Go Next ................................. 5–14
6–1 Current System Status . . ........................... 6–2
6–2 Steps to Shutting Down Your System .................. 6–3
6–3 Operating System Shutdown Procedure ................. 6–3
6–4 Halting the Operating Systems ....................... 6–5
x
7–1 Steps for Cleaning the Mouse ........................ 7–5
7–2 Steps to Remove the Front Access Door ................. 7–6
8–1 Supported Keys and Control Characters ................ 8–5
8–2 Advanced Console Commands ........................ 8–6
8–3 Basic Console Commands. ........................... 8–7
8–4 Boot Command Parameters/Qualifiers .................. 8–8
8–5 Device Naming Conventions ......................... 8–9
8–6 Diagnostic Tests ................................... 8–16
9–1 Environment Variables. . . ........................... 9–3
9–2 Parameters for Setting Startup Action.................. 9–5
9–3 Device Naming Conventions ......................... 9–7
10–1 Console Command Access ........................... 10–4
10–2 Steps to Making the System Secure . ................... 10–5
10–3 Entering a Password ............................... 10–6
10–4 Enabling System Security ........................... 10–7
10–5 Steps to Access System . . ........................... 10–8
10–6 Entering a Password ............................... 10–9
11–1 Current System Status . . ........................... 11–2
11–2 Alternate Console/Printer Port Parameters .............. 11–2
11–3 Using the Alternate Console ......................... 11–3
12–1 How to Identify a Problem ........................... 12–2
12–2 Steps to Resolving Problems ......................... 12–3
12–3 Type of Problem ................................... 12–5
12–4 Power Indicator Light Failure ........................ 12–6
12–5 Missing Startup Display . ........................... 12–8
12–6 Startup Error Codes ................................ 12–10
12–7 Startup Without Booting . ........................... 12–11
12–8 Information Provided by the show Console Commands . . . . . 12–12
12–9 The show config Display Described . ................... 12–14
12–10 The show device Display Described . ................... 12–16
12–11 System Device Errors ............................... 12–18
12–12 Error Message Elements . ........................... 12–19
12–13 Monitor Display Problems ........................... 12–22
12–14 Monitor Display Problems ........................... 12–23
12–15 Mouse Problems ................................... 12–24
12–16 Keyboard Problems ................................ 12–24
12–17 Installed Disk Drive Problems ........................ 12–25
xi
12–18 Installed Software Problems ......................... 12–26
12–19 Software on Diskette Problems ....................... 12–27
12–20 Resolving NI Errors ............................... 12–28
12–21 Problems When Booting from the Network .............. 12–29
13–1 Steps to Diagnostic Tests . ........................... 13–3
13–2 Diagnostic Tests ................................... 13–4
13–3 Telephone Numbers of Digital Support Centers . .......... 13–12
A–1 System Unit Dimensions: Pedestal . ................... A–2
A–2 System Unit Dimensions: Rackmount .................. A–2
A–3 System Electrical Specifications ....................... A–2
A–4 General System Specifications ....................... A–3
A–5 System Environmental Specifications .................. A–4
B–1 Alternate Console/Printer Port Pin-outs ................. B–2
B–2 Synchronous/Asynchronous Communications Port
Pin-outs ......................................... B–3
B–3 External SCSI Port Pin-outs ......................... B–5
B–4 Keyboard/Mouse or Tablet Port Pin-outs ................ B–7
B–5 AUI Ethernet Port Pin-outs .......................... B–9
B–6 ISDN Port Pin-outs ................................ B–10
B–7 10BASE-T Port Pin-outs . ........................... B–11
B–8 Audio Port Pin-outs ................................ B–12
D–1 Associated Printed Documents ........................ D–2
D–2 Drives .......................................... D–3
D–3 Handbook Series .................................. D–3
D–4 TURBOchannel-Related Documents. ................... D–4
D–5 SCSI Documents .................................. D–4
D–6 General OpenVMS AXP Operating System Documents . . . . . D–5
D–7 DECconnect System ................................ D–6
D–8 User Documentation, QA–MT4AB–GZ .................. D–7
D–9 Server Documentation Kit, QA–MT4AL–GZ . . . .......... D–8
E–1 BABT-Approved Service Specifications for the 54-21147
Module for UK Compliance .......................... E–2
E–2 Module Power . ................................... E–3
E–3 Clearance and Creepage Distances . ................... E–5
E–4 Connector Pin-Outs Described ........................ E–7
E–5 Cables Supported by the 54-21147 Module .............. E–8
xii
Preface
Purpose of
This Guide
Structure of
This Guide
This guide is intended for all users of the DEC 3000 Model
500X AXP system. It describes how to install and operate the
DEC 3000 Model 500X AXP workstation. To install options in
the DEC 3000 Model 500X AXP system, refer to the DEC 3000
Model 500X AXP Options Guide.
This guide consists of 13 chapters, 5 appendices, a glossary of
technical terms, and an index, and is organized into four parts
as Table 1 describes:
Table 1 Parts Description
Part Title Description
I Basic Operations Chapters in Part I describe basic
operations for using your system,
including installing, turning on, and
maintaining your system. These
chapters are for all DEC 3000
Model 500X AXP system users.
II Advanced
Operations
Chapters in Part II describe
advanced operations for your
system, including use of console
commands and the alternate console
feature. These chapters are for
users who understand advanced
system operations.
(continued on next page)
xiii
Table 1 (Cont.) Parts Description
Part Title Description
III Troubleshooting Chapters in Part III describe what
to do in the event of a system
problem. These chapters are
applicable only if your system is not
working properly or is displaying
error messages.
IV Appendixes The appendixes in Part IV provide
information such as specifications,
and port pinouts.
xiv
Conventions
The following conventions are used in this guide:
Convention Description
RZ2x RZ2x refers to the RZ-series fixed disk
drives, including the RZ24L, RZ25, and
RZ26.
Return
A key name in a box indicates that you
press a named key on the keyboard.
Ctrl/x
A sequence such as
Ctrl/x
indicates that
you must hold down the key labeled
Ctrl while you press another key.
show config
Lowercase color type in this format
indicates a command that you must
enter exactly as shown. For example:
>>> show config
Return
variable Lowercase color italics indicate a
variable value that you must provide.
For example:
>>> set
variable
Return
CAUTION Cautions provide information to prevent
damage to equipment or software. Read
these carefully.
WARNING Warnings contain information to
prevent personal injury. Read these
carefully.
xv
Task Symbols
i
All of the tasks described in this guide have been assigned a
symbol indicating the level of difficulty in completing the task.
The task symbols that appear in the margin next to the task
should be used as a guide to help you decide whether you wish to
complete the task, or request help.
Different tasks within a category may require different levels
of expertise. For instance, one intermediate task may require
software expertise, while another intermediate task may require
hardware expertise. Check the Before You Begin section at the
beginning of most chapters, for the specific kind of experience
required to complete a task. This section will be identified by the
information icon, defined below.
Information
This section contains important background information that
will help you to perform the tasks listed and to operate your
DEC 3000 Model 500X AXP correctly.
Task
Categories
The tasks fall into four categories indicated by four symbols:
Basic Task
This task does not require any specific experience to complete.
Intermediate Task
Some specific experience is required to complete this task.
Advanced Task
Specific experience is highly desirable to complete this task.
xvi
PartI
Basic Operations
Part I provides an overview of the DEC 3000 Model 500X AXP
system and its configurations. It also describes how to install the
system and how to perform basic operations. This part includes
the following chapters:
Chapter Title
1 Introduction to Your System
2 Preparing to Install the System
3 Installing the System
4 Connecting the System to a Network
5 Starting Up the System
6 Turning Off the System
7 Maintaining the System
Chapter Overview
1
Introduction to Your System
Introduction
In This Chapter
Congratulations on choosing a DEC 3000 Model 500X AXP
workstation. These high-performance deskside systems use
Digital’s DECchip 21064 RISC processor, part of the Alpha AXP
architecture, making them the most powerful low-end systems
ever designed.
The DEC 3000 Model 500X AXP system is based on the Digital
Alpha AXP architecture, providing all the advantages of a 64-bit
computing environment.
This chapter covers the following topics:
• An Overview of the DEC 3000 Model 500X AXP System
• Operating Systems
• Software Product Descriptions (SPD)
• Graphics Capabilities
• Integrated Services Digital Network (ISDN)
• Audio Capabilities
• Available Options
Introduction to Your System 1–1
An Overview of the DEC 3000 Model 500X AXP System
An Overview of the DEC 3000 Model 500X AXP System
System
Components
The DEC 3000 Model 500X AXP system consists of four
components: a system unit, a monitor, a keyboard, and a mouse.
Figure 1–1 shows a basic workstation configuration.
Figure 1–1 The DEC 3000 Model 500X AXP Workstation
1–2 Introduction to Your System
MLO-007581
An Overview of the DEC 3000 Model 500X AXP System
System
Highlights
The DEC 3000 Model 500X AXP system provides the following
special features:
This system feature... Provides...
Full 64-bit Alpha RISC
architecture
Up to 256 megabytes of
memory
Accelerated 2D graphics 8-plane, accelerated 2D graphics and
Multi-head graphic support Support for multiple graphic heads.
Internal and external options Increased storage capacity, graphics,
An Attachment Unit
Interface (AUI) Ethernet
port
A 10BASE-T network port Connection to a twisted-pair network
ISDN network ready An industry-standard port for an ISDN
Five TURBOchannel slots Access to high-performance module
Audio technology Built-in telephone-quality audio input
Secure console mode feature Limited access to core console functions
A password security feature Additional system security for
Two supported operating
systems
Double the 32-bit memory address.
Expandable memory using 32- and 64megabyte memory options.
windowing operations.
The number of graphics heads
supported depends on the operating
system.
communications, and other capabilities
to your system.
Connection to an AUI Ethernet
network.
network connection.
interconnect technology that allows a
variety of options, including graphics,
multimedia, communications, and other
third-party options.
and output capabilities.
for added system security.
privileged commands when the system
is in secure console mode.
Support for the OpenVMS AXP and the
DEC OSF/1 AXP operating systems.
Introduction to Your System 1–3
Operating Systems
Operating Systems
A Choice of
Operating
Systems
Supported
Operating
Systems
OpenVMS AXP
Operating
System
Features of
OpenVMS AXP
Digital’s Alpha AXP architecture allows you to choose from
various operating systems for use on your DEC 3000 Model 500X
AXP system. The operating system is the core software installed
on your DEC 3000 Model 500X AXP system, which allows you to
install and run applications.
Currently, both of the following operating systems are supported
for use on your DEC 3000 Model 500X AXP system:
• OpenVMS AXP
• DEC OSF/1 AXP
These two are the operating systems supported with the first
shipments of the DEC 3000 Model 500X AXP system. Other
operating systems may be supported at a later time.
The OpenVMS AXP operating system is a general purpose,
multiuser operating system that can be used in many different
environments for a wide variety of applications.
The OpenVMS AXP operating system promotes ease-of-use and
improved programming productivity, and it facilitates system
management.
OpenVMS AXP offers a combination of commercial features and
open system benefits, including the following capabilities:
• Integrated networking
• System security
• Distributed computing
• Windowing capabilities
Additionally, OpenVMS AXP supports a large number of
industry standards to facilitate application portability and
interoperability.
1–4 Introduction to Your System
Operating Systems
DEC OSF/1
AXP Operating
System
Description
of DEC OSF/1
AXP
DEC OSF/1 AXP
Architecture
DEC OSF/1 AXP is Digital Equipment Corporation’s
implementation of the Open Software Foundation (OSF)
operating system components and Motif graphical user interface
and programming environment.
DEC OSF/1 AXP is compliant with the OSF Application
Environment Specification (AES), which specifies the interface
to support portable applications designed to run on a variety of
hardware platforms.
In addition, the DEC OSF/1 operating system complies with
these standards and industry specifications:
• FIPS 151-1
• POSIX (IEEE Std. 1003.1-1988)
• XPG3 BASE branding
• XTI
• AT&T System V Interface Definition (SVID) Issue 2 (Base
System and Kernel Extensions)
The DEC OSF/1 AXP operating system is an advanced kernel
architecture based on Carnegie Mellon University’s Mach
V2.5 kernel design with components from Berkeley Software
Distribution 4.3 (BSD) and other sources. DEC OSF/1 AXP
provides numerous features to assist application programmers
in developing applications that use shared libraries, multithread
support, and memory mapped files.
To ensure a high level of binary compatibility with the ULTRIX
operating system, the DEC OSF/1 AXP operating system is
compatible with the Berkeley 4.3 programming interfaces.
You May Have
Factory-Installed
Software
If there is a yellow sticker over the system power connector on
your DEC 3000 Model 500X AXP system, the operating system
is factory-installed on an internal fixed disk drive, and you can
start it on your system using either the OpenVMS AXP Factory
Installed Software (FIS) procedure, or the DEC OSF/1 AXP
Factory-Installed Software (FIS) Startup Procedure.
Chapter 5 describes how to start your system if it has a
factory-installed operating system.
Introduction to Your System 1–5
Software Product Descriptions (SPD)
Software Product Descriptions (SPD)
SPD
Description
The Software Product Description (SPD) is the official defining
document for software products licensed by Digital Equipment
Corporation, including third-party products licensed by Digital.
An SPD describes all important functional characteristics of the
software. The terms and conditions under which the corporation
sells and licenses its software products identify SPDs as the
documents that specify Digital’s obligation under software
warranty.
SPDs also describe a software product’s system environment
and identify required and optional hardware and software. All
information contained in the SPD is valid in the international
marketplace.
For more information on the SPD for your operating system,
please contact your Digital sales representative.
Graphics Capabilities
Standard
and Optional
Graphics
All DEC 3000 Model 500X AXP systems are shipped with the
HX 2D graphics capabilities integral to the system module.
This provides 8-plane, accelerated 2D graphics and windowing
operations for your system.
Additional graphics and multimedia capabilities are available via
a TURBOchannel graphics module that can be installed in your
system. Digital and third-party suppliers provide a wide variety
of TURBOchannel-based graphics options.
1–6 Introduction to Your System
Graphics Capabilities
DEC Open3D
Software
OpenVMS AXP
Graphics
Three dimensional (3D) graphics support is provided by the DEC
Open3D software. Contact your Digital sales representative for
availability of the DEC Open3D software as a layered product
for both the OpenVMS AXP and the DEC OSF/1 AXP operating
systems.
If your system is running the OpenVMS AXP operating system,
the two-dimensional (2D) graphics TURBOchannel option
described in Table 1–1 is available.
Table 1–1 Graphics Capabilities for OpenVMS AXP
Graphics
Option Capabilities Provided
HX 8-plane, accelerated 2D graphics and windowing
operations.
1
PXG+
PXGT+
1
1
Requires DEC Open3D software
Configurable 3D graphics: either 8- or 24-plane graphics,
double buffered and optional 24-bit Z-buffer graphics.
96-plane 3D accelerated graphics: 24-plane frame and
double buffer graphics, 24-bit Z-buffer and additional
24-bit configurable buffer graphics.
3D Applications
for the
OpenVMS AXP
Operating
System
In addition to the hardware three-dimensional (3D) graphics
described in Table 1–1, there are also 3D software applications
available for use on the OpenVMS AXP operating system.
Two applications, DEC PHIGS (Programmer’s Hierarchical
Interactive Graphics System) and DEC GKS (Graphics Kernel
System) can be run as layered products. For more information,
contact your Digital sales representative.
Introduction to Your System 1–7
Graphics Capabilities
DEC OSF/1
AXP Graphics
Multiple
Graphic
Devices
If your system is running the DEC OSF/1 AXP operating system,
the TURBOchannel graphics options listed in Table 1–2 are
available.
Table 1–2 Graphics Capabilities for DEC OSF/1 AXP
Graphics
Option Capabilities Provided
HX 8-plane, accelerated 2D graphics and windowing
operations.
TX 24-plane, true-color 2D graphics.
1
PXG+
PXGT+
1
1
Requires DEC Open3D software
Configurable 3D graphics: either 8- or 24-plane graphics,
double buffered and optional 24-bit Z-buffer graphics.
96-plane 3D accelerated graphics: 24-plane frame and
double buffer graphics, 24-bit Z-buffer and additional
24-bit configurable buffer graphics.
Your DEC 3000 Model 500X AXP system is capable of supporting
multiple 2D graphics devices. For information about installing
another graphics option in your system, see the DEC 3000 Model
500X AXP Options Guide.
Information about setting up your system to use more than one
monitor is provided in the documents listed in Table 1–3.
Table 1–3 Setting Up Multiple Graphics Devices
For this operating
system... See this document...
OpenVMS AXP OpenVMS Alpha Version 1.0 Upgrade and
DEC OSF/1 AXP X Window System Administrator’s Guide,
1–8 Introduction to Your System
Installation Manual
vol. 8, available from O’Reilly and
Associates, Inc.
Integrated Services Digital Network (ISDN)
Integrated Services Digital Network (ISDN)
Note: ISDN Not
Yet Available
ISDN
Capabilities
Use of ISDN B
Channels
Though your DEC 3000 Model 500X AXP system can provide
ISDN capabilities, they are not yet agency approved or available.
Currently, a plug has been placed in the ISDN port pending
approval of ISDN licenses. Once agency approval of ISDN for the
DEC 3000 Model 500X AXP system has been granted, you will
be contacted by your Digital sales representative to inform you of
the ISDN certification. At that point, you must remove the plug
from the ISDN port before connecting the ISDN network.
The following information explains the ISDN capabilities for your
DEC 3000 Model 500X AXP system pending license approval.
ISDN is a digital telecommunications network, providing
connectivity for voice and data applications.
Your DEC 3000 Model 500X AXP system includes an ISDN Basic
Rate S/T interface, which includes:
• two 64 kilobits per second B channels
• one 16 kilobits per second D channel
The B channels can be used for digitized voice and circuitswitched data at up to 64 kilobits per second, or for packetswitched data transmission.
Use of ISDN D
Channels
The D channel uses a protocol standardized by the International
Telegraph and Telephone Consultative Commiittee (CCITT) for
setting up these connections. The D channel can also be used for
low-speed packet transmission.
Introduction to Your System 1–9
Audio Capabilities
Audio Capabilities
Audio Overview
The DEC 3000 Model 500X AXP system features telephonequality audio features, providing audio input and output
capabilities. The audio ports are located on the front of the
system unit, behind the front access door. Figure 1–2 shows the
audio ports: the microphone input jack!, the speaker/
headphone jack", the telephone handset jack#, and the audio
input jack$.
Figure 1–2 Audio Ports on the DEC 3000 Model 500X AXP
Line
In
1
2
Port pin-outs for the telephone handset jack on the system unit
are provided in Appendix B.
1–10 Introduction to Your System
3
Line
In
4
MLO-007498
Audio Capabilities
DECsound
Application
XMedia
Application
The DECsound application, shipped with your DEC 3000
Model 500X AXP workstation as part of the OpenVMS AXP
DECwindows Motif layered product kit, is an easy-to-use
software application that lets you play back recorded messages,
record audio messages, mail recorded messages, and include
recorded messages in compound documents.
Audio support for DEC OSF/1 AXP systems is provided by
XMedia, Digital’s distributed multimedia software development
environment.
Available Options
Internal
Options
You can install the following hardware options inside the DEC
3000 Model 500X AXP system unit:
Option Capabilities Provided
Four RZ2x-series
3½-inch fixed disk
drives
Two 5¼-inch
removable media
devices (RMD)
Up to 256 megabytes
of total memory
Up to five
TURBOchannel
modules
Up to 4 gigabytes of additional storage
capacity.
Additional data storage on any of several
devices: the RX26 diskette drives, the
RRD42 compact disc drive, the TLZ06
tape drive, the TZK10 quarter-inch
cartridge tape drive, and the TZ30 tape
drive.
Increased performance.
A variety of TURBOchannel options,
including 2D and 3D graphics options.
Introduction to Your System 1–11
Available Options
TURBOchannel
Options
Installing
Internal
Options
External
Options
There are a total of five TURBOchannel option slots on your
system. Since your 2D graphics capabilities are integral to your
system, you have all five TURBOchannel slots available for other
options.
For more information about internal and TURBOchannel options
and how to install them in your DEC 3000 Model 500X AXP
system, see the DEC 3000 Model 500X AXP Options Guide.
You can add one or more of the following external options to your
system.
• A printer such as a PostScript laser printer.
• A modem
• A puck or stylus tablet
• A BA350 expansion box that can hold the following devices:
• RZ2x-series fixed disk drives
• TLZ06 DAT (digital audio tape) drive
• RRD42 compact disc drive
• TZK10 quarter-inch cartridge tape drive
Adding
External
Options
Ordering
Options
1–12 Introduction to Your System
For more information about external options and how to add
them to your DEC 3000 Model 500X AXP system, see the DEC
3000 Model 500X AXP Options Guide.
Contact your Digital sales representative for more information
about ordering DEC 3000 Model 500X AXP system options.
Chapter Overview
2
Preparing to Install the System
Introduction
In This Chapter
Before you install your DEC 3000 Model 500X AXP system, you
need to prepare your site, and familiarize yourself with your
system hardware.
This chapter covers the following topics:
• Choosing a Location
• Customizing Your Work Area
• Moving Your System
• Unpacking Your System
• A Closer Look at Your System
• Where to Go Next
Preparing to Install the System 2–1
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