VAX 4000 BA42B-Based Easy System Expansion Upgrade Manual

This document is the VAX 4000 BA42B-Based Easy System Expansion Upgrade Manual, published by Digital Equipment Corporation in October 1992.

Purpose: The manual provides detailed procedures for converting older VAX 4000-200 systems (BA213, BA215, BA430) and MicroVAX 3000-series systems (3300, 3400, 3500, 3600, 3800, 3900) into Q-bus expansion enclosures. This conversion is specifically designed to integrate these older systems as expansion units for a newer BA42B-based VAX 4000 system.

Audience: It is intended for Digital Services personnel and licensed self-maintenance customers, emphasizing that only qualified individuals should perform the installation.

Key Responsibilities:

• Customer: Must back up system software before the conversion.
• Installer (Digital Services/Qualified Customer): Responsible for the physical conversion, running diagnostics, and completing mandatory module return paperwork. Old CPU and memory modules must be returned to Digital Equipment Corporation to avoid penalty charges.

Conversion Process Overview: The manual details a multi-step process for each enclosure type (BA215, BA213/H9644, BA430), which generally includes:

1. Verifying system operation and backing up software.
2. Unpacking and verifying the conversion kit contents.
3. Shutting down system power and disconnecting cables.
4. Removing existing CPU and memory modules.
5. Installing new Q-bus expander modules, grant continuity cards, filler panels, and new cabling (DSSI and Q-bus).
6. Attaching ground wires, conversion labels, and new system medallions.
7. Running diagnostics and reinstalling system data.

Important Notes/Cautions:

• Static Discharge: Proper antistatic measures (wrist strap, mat) are crucial to prevent module damage.
• Physical Placement: The BA42B-based VAX 4000 system should never be placed on top of the converted expansion enclosure.
• Software Compatibility: Version 5.5-2 of VMS is required to operate the BA42B-based VAX 4000 system, and the original VMS disk from the converted system is no longer needed as a system disk.
• DSSI Node IDs: Existing DSSI node IDs must be noted and potentially renumbered to avoid conflicts with the new BA42B system.
• Module Return: Strict procedures are outlined in Appendix A for returning the old CPU and memory modules, including specific forms that must be completed and signed by both the customer and the Digital Services representative.

The document is structured into three main chapters, each addressing a specific enclosure type's upgrade procedure, followed by an appendix for the mandatory module return process and relevant forms.