SF200 Storage Array Installation Guide

This document is the SF200 Storage Array Installation Guide from Digital Equipment Corporation (DEC), published in January 1991.

It provides comprehensive instructions for installing, configuring, and troubleshooting the SF200 Storage Array, its SF72 storage enclosures (containing RF72 disk ISEs), and magazine tape subsystems, primarily in conjunction with VAX 6000 series systems.

The guide is intended for Digital Customer Services and qualified service personnel and covers:

• SF200 Storage Array Overview: Describes the cabinet designed to hold SF72 enclosures and tape subsystems, supporting up to 16 DSSI buses (4 for single-host, 6 for dual-host in a fully configured array).
• Site Preparation: Details environmental requirements (temperature, humidity, air quality), power specifications (3-phase AC), and space considerations for the array, emphasizing filling out system configuration sheets and having correct NEMA plugs.
• Unpacking and Physical Placement: Steps for safely unpacking the SF200 array, removing it from its shipping pallet, placing it in its final location, and leveling it.

• Installation Procedures: Detailed instructions for installing the SF200 Storage Array, SF72 Storage Enclosures, and Magazine Tape Subsystems, including:

  • Verification of component settings (e.g., DSSI ID switches, OCPs, power controllers).
  • Cabling for both single-host and dual-host configurations.
  • Power-up sequences for individual components and the entire array.
  • Thorough labeling procedures for cables and operator control panels using color-coded labels.
  • Final verification steps, often requiring reference to other specific manuals (e.g., KFMSA Module Installation and User Manual, TF837 Magazine Tape Subsystem Service Manual).

• Troubleshooting: Guidance on identifying and resolving common installation issues for SF72 storage enclosures and magazine tape subsystems, including error codes and corrective actions.

• Upgrade and Conversion Procedures: Specific steps for installing an SF72-UK Upgrade Kit (adding disk ISEs) and converting an existing single-host configuration to a dual-host setup, including reconfiguring SF72 enclosures from split-bus to through-bus mode.

Throughout the document, critical WARNINGs and CAUTIONs emphasize safety, particularly regarding electrostatic discharge (ESD) precautions and orderly system shutdowns to prevent injury or data corruption.