VAXstation 4000 Model 90 Service Information

This document, "VAXstation 4000 Model 90 Service Information (EK-KA490-SV.A01)," is a comprehensive support and reference manual for maintenance personnel and self-maintaining customers of the VAXstation 4000 Model 90 workstation.

Key areas covered in the document include:

1. System Module Overview: Details the features of the KA49 CPU module, including its NVAX CPU, a three-level cache architecture (VIC, Pcache, Bcache), main memory support (up to 128MB via SIMM modules), and I/O subsystem components (SCSI controller, Ethernet interface, serial line controller, Time-of-Year clock, sound generator, and optional DSW21 Synchronous Communications Adapter and TURBOchannel interface). It also describes the NVAX's data/address lines and processor state.

2. Firmware: Explains the system's 512KB FLASH EPROM firmware, covering power-up initialization sequences, console mode operations, extended self-tests, and various utilities. It details the structure of System ROM and Option ROM, and the function of configuration tables (Master Configuration Table - MCT, and Device Configuration Table - DCT) and driver descriptors used during system initialization and diagnostics.

3. System Configuration: Provides information on the BA46 enclosure, internal and external cabling, mass storage device areas, power supply specifications (H7819-AA), and descriptions of the system box control panel (ON/OFF switch, Halt button, diagnostic LEDs) and I/O panel connectors.

4. Using the Console: Describes standard console commands for system operation, configuration, memory manipulation, and processor control (e.g., BOOT, SET/SHOW, DEPOSIT, EXAMINE, UNJAM, START). It also details how to use alternate consoles via the printer port or network for troubleshooting, including setting passwords (SET PSWD) and network listener options (SET MOP, SET TRIGGER).

5. Diagnostic Testing: This is a major focus, outlining how to perform diagnostic tests. It covers:

   • Diagnostic Functions: Power-up tests, extended self-tests, system tests, utilities, and error reporting.
   • System Power-Up Test: Sequential testing with console prompt or LED codes for fatal errors.
   • Configuration Display: Commands like SHOW DEVICE and SHOW CONFIG to view system and device status.
   • Error Information: Using SHOW ERROR to get detailed error messages.
   • Diagnostic Environments: Setting DIAGENV for customer, Digital Services, or manufacturing modes, with warnings about data erasure in manufacturing mode.
   • Device and System Tests: Usage of the TEST command for various components (e.g., Memory, SCSI, Network, Graphics, FPU, Time-of-Year Clock), including self-test descriptions and examples.
   • Product Fault Management: Explains how the system handles exceptions and interrupts, logs errors (VMS Error Handler, Event Log), and how to interpret error logs to isolate faulty Field Replaceable Units (FRUs) based on error types (ECC memory errors, DMA faults, CPU faults).
   • Firmware Update: Detailed procedures for updating FEPROM firmware via Ethernet or tape, emphasizing precautions against data loss or CPU damage during the process.
   • User Environmental Test Package (UETP): Describes its function for system stress testing and how it generates log files for analysis.

6. FRUs Removal and Replacement: Provides step-by-step procedures for removing and replacing various Field Replaceable Units (FRUs) within the VAXstation 4000 Model 90, including mass storage drives, the power supply, memory modules, graphics modules (SPXg/gt), the CPU module, the DSW21 adapter, and the bezel. It includes critical precautions like ESD prevention and data backup, and outlines post-replacement testing.

Appendices provide detailed reference tables for:

• Diagnostic Error Codes: Listing error codes for various self-tests and system tests, along with their meanings and corresponding FRUs.
• Diagnostic LED Codes: Explaining how to interpret the diagnostic LEDs on the control panel to identify issues when the console is inoperable.
• Troubleshooting: Comprehensive tables linking symptoms to possible causes and corrective actions for common system, monitor, peripheral, and network problems.
• FRU Part Numbers: Listing part numbers for all field replaceable units and related hardware.

The document aims to equip service personnel with the knowledge to diagnose problems, perform hardware replacements, and update firmware on the VAXstation 4000 Model 90.