VAXft Systems Configuration Guide

This document, the "VAXft Systems Configuration Guide" from August 1991, provides instructions and details on configuring Digital Equipment Corporation's VAXft (fault-tolerant) computer systems.

Key aspects covered include:

1. Fault-Tolerant Architecture: VAXft systems feature a hardware-intensive, fully redundant design with "dual zones" operating in "lockstep" to ensure no single point of hardware failure or repair. Each zone is a complete computer system, and a "Crosslink" provides parallel data paths.
2. Hardware Components: The guide details processor modules (with varying VUPs from 2.4 to 12.0 across models), memory modules (32MB increments, up to 128MB per system), system I/O controller modules (for Ethernet/DSSI/console), and power subsystems (with integral Uninterruptible Power Supplies except for the Model 110).
3. System Software: Fault tolerance is heavily reliant on software, including the VMS operating system, VAXft System Services (for features like automatic failover, fault isolation, and dialout notification), and VMS Volume Shadowing (for disk data redundancy, allowing disks to be shadowed across different DSSI buses and cabinets for maximum availability). Existing VMS applications can run unchanged.
4. System Configurations & Options: The document describes a family of VAXft systems (Models 110, 310/410 Entry/Expanded, 610 Entry/Expanded, and 612 VAXcluster Entry/Expanded), which vary in processing power and mass storage capacity (up to 24 gigabytes of non-shadowed storage). It outlines common options for tape drives, disk storage (fixed and removable RF-series disks), memory, and WAN controllers.
5. Networking Communications: VAXft systems support extensive networking via Ethernet connections (single or dual, with redundant controllers) and synchronous communications using DEC WANcontroller 620 modules (up to 16 non-redundant or 8 redundant lines via Y-connectors). DECserver Terminal Servers facilitate asynchronous communication.
6. Service and Warranty: The VAXft design emphasizes ease of repair, enabling online maintenance without interrupting applications. Features include modular Field Replaceable Units (FRUs), front access to components, visual fault indicators, and automatic dialout notification for system problems. Various warranty and Digital Assisted Services Program (DASP) options are detailed for hardware and software support.