MSV11-Q MOS Memory User's Guide

This document is the User's Guide for the MSV11-Q MOS Memory module, published by Digital Equipment Corporation in May 1985.

The guide describes the MSV11-Q memory module, which contains Metal Oxide Semiconductor (MOS) Random Access Memory (RAM) and interfaces with the LSI-11 bus. It provides 1024K byte to 4096K byte (1MB to 4MB) storage for 18-bit words (16 data bits and 2 parity bits). Key features include 22-bit addressing, parity generation and checking for data integrity, a self-contained Control and Status Register (CSR), switch-selectable starting addresses, jumper-selectable CSR addresses, single +5V power, and support for Block-Mode transfers.

The document details:

• Characteristics and Specifications: Functional, electrical, and environmental specs, including access/cycle times, power requirements, and backplane pin utilization for various MSV11-Q module variations (MSV11-QA, MSV11-QB, MSV11-QC).
• Configuration: Detailed instructions on setting jumpers and DIP switches for different module revisions (MSV11-QA etch revision A; and MSV11-QA etch revision C or later, MSV11-QB, MSV11-QC) to configure CSR addresses, block mode, extended error addressing, parity detection, battery backup, and memory starting/ending addresses.
• Unpacking and Installation: Procedures for safe handling (emphasizing ESD precautions), inspection, pre-installation checks, and physical installation of the modules into compatible backplanes (LSI-11/23, PDP-11/23, Micro/PDP-11, MicroVAX I systems).
• Functional Description: Explains the LSI-11 bus signals and dialogues, the internal logic of the memory module (address logic, control signals, cycle arbitration, memory access), and the parity control circuitry, including how parity errors are detected and recorded in the CSR.
• Maintenance: Covers preventive maintenance (visual inspection, voltage checks) and diagnostic testing, specifically using the MicroVAX Memory Diagnostic 1 (EHXMS) and the MSV11-Q Diagnostic (CVMSAA) for LSI-11 bus systems, providing error reporting details and various sub-tests. It also outlines Digital's repair services.

In essence, it's a comprehensive technical manual for users to understand, set up, and troubleshoot the MSV11-Q family of MOS memory modules in Digital's computer systems.