MicroVAX 2000

This document, the "MicroVAX 2000 Hardware Installation Guide" (EK-MVXAA-IG-001) published by Digital Equipment Corporation in January 1987, provides comprehensive instructions for the physical setup, initial testing, and configuration of the MicroVAX 2000 computer system hardware.

The guide is structured into sequential procedures covering:

1. Site Preparation: Details requirements for space planning (e.g., 10 cm clearance, unit weight of ~12.7 kg / 28 lbs), environmental conditions (temperature, humidity, dust), and electrical needs (dedicated 15-amp circuit).
2. Shipment Verification: Instructions for checking the contents of the shipment against the packing slip.
3. System Unit Setup: Guidance on positioning the main MicroVAX 2000 unit and installing components like the bottom dress cover if setting it on its side.
4. Peripheral Installation: Step-by-step procedures for connecting essential and optional hardware, including the DEC423 converter, console terminal, additional terminals, printers, modems, and expansion boxes (for tape and disk drives). It emphasizes proper cabling and connector usage.
5. Power Connection: Instructions for safely connecting power cords to the system unit and peripherals.
6. Power-Up and Diagnostics: A critical section detailing how to power on the MicroVAX 2000 for the first time, run built-in diagnostic tests (TEST 50), and interpret common console messages (e.g., battery low, no tape drive detected, no network or OS found). It explains the use of the "halt" button to access the console prompt.
7. Disk Formatting: Procedures for formatting fixed disks within the system unit or expansion boxes, a necessary step before installing an operating system.
8. Default Boot Device Setting: Instructions for configuring which device the MicroVAX 2000 should boot from by default.
9. Next Steps: Briefly outlines the connection of ThinWire Ethernet and directs users to other manuals for detailed operating system software installation and networking setup.

The document emphasizes following steps sequentially and includes "NOTES," "CAUTIONS," and "WARNINGS" throughout for general information, equipment protection, and personal safety.