MicroVAX II

This document serves as "Release Notes" for MicroVAX II systems, providing technical information for two specific hardware components:

1. MS630-CA Memory Module:

   • Description: An 8 megabyte MOS memory module using 256K x 1-bit Dynamic RAMs (DRAMs) in a ZIP configuration. It features on-board parity detection but no error correction.
   • Compatibility: Supported by MicroVMS (v4.1m and later), ULTRIX-32m (v1.1 and later), and VAXELN (v2.0 and later).
   • Installation: It's a quad-height module connecting via a 50-pin cable to the KA630-A CPU module. No hardware settings are required, as addresses are determined by backplane position.
   • Power: Consumes 10.55 watts (+5V at 2.11 amps).
   • Diagnostics: Supported by MicroVAX Maintenance System (v113 and later) including functional verify, exerciser, and utility tests. The document notes potential "BAD PAGE" indications under "SHOW MEMORY" and issues with the PQL_DWSDEFAULT SYSGEN parameter for 16 MB systems. Various error messages related to memory are listed.

2. RD54 Disk Drive:

   • Description: A 150 Mbyte, 5.25-inch fixed disk drive, controlled by the RQDX3 MSCP controller.
   • Compatibility: Supported by MicroVMS (v4.1m and later), ULTRIX-32m (v1.2-a and later), and VAXELN (v2.0 and later).
   • Interconnection: Connects to the system using a 20-pin and a 34-pin cable. Drive selection is configured via jumpers on the printed circuit board assembly (PCBA).
   • Power: Consumes 27.34 watts (+5V at 1.7 amps, +12V at 1.57 amps).
   • Maintenance: The PCBA is the only Field Replaceable Unit (FRU), with detailed removal and replacement procedures provided.
   • Formatting: Requires formatting using the service version of the MicroVAX Maintenance System.