rtVAX 1000 System User's Guide

This document is the rtVAX 1000 System User's Guide (EK-127AB-UG-002), published by Educational Services of Digital Equipment Corporation, with a second edition in September 1987.

The guide provides comprehensive instructions for installing, configuring, operating, and troubleshooting the rtVAX 1000 system, a high-performance VAX microcomputer designed for real-time computing applications that runs on VAXELN software (it does not support MicroVMS or VAX/VMS). It caters to users with little to no prior computer experience.

Key areas covered include:

• Overview: General description, specifications (physical, electrical, environmental, and disk drive), and a list of related hardware and software documentation.
• Installation: Detailed steps for rack-mount, pedestal/tabletop, and cabinet models, including site preparation (power, network, static electricity), unpacking, console terminal setup, Ethernet connection, system controls, and initial power-up testing.
• Configuration: Information on the KA620-A CPU module, memory (MS630), Ethernet communications controller (DEQNA), mass storage devices (RQDX3 controller, RX33 diskette, RD31 fixed-disk), base system enclosure (BA23-A), and detailed configuration rules concerning module priority, power requirements, CSR addresses, and interrupt vectors.
• Operation: How to use the control panel, turn the system on and off, manage disks (RD31 and RX33, including handling, storage, and write-protection), and utilize console commands (e.g., BOOT, DEPOSIT, EXAMINE). It also lists and explains console error messages.
• Troubleshooting: Guides on interpreting power-up messages, performing corrective actions for common issues, and using the MicroVAX Diagnostic Monitor (MDM) software to test the system, display configuration, and format disks.
• Glossary: Definitions of common computer terms for non-technical users.

The guide emphasizes proper site conditions, safe handling of components, and the use of diagnostic tools to identify and resolve minor system problems before contacting service.