Installing and Using The VT420 Video Terminal With PC Terminal Mode

This document is a comprehensive guide for installing, operating, and troubleshooting the Digital Equipment Corporation VT420 video terminal, particularly when configured for PC Terminal Mode.

The guide begins by introducing the VT420's components, features, and operating modes, emphasizing its versatility as both a VT series text terminal and a PC terminal. It provides detailed instructions for physical installation, including site considerations, unpacking, assembling the tilt-swivel base, connecting keyboards, power, and various communication cables for single or dual sessions.

Subsequent sections walk users through initial setup, such as selecting the correct keyboard dialect (ANSI, Short ANSI, or PC), configuring baud rates, setting terminal IDs, and enabling PC TERM mode. The document extensively details the layouts and functionalities of the ANSI, Short ANSI, and PC keyboards, covering special-function keys, editing keypads, numeric keypads, and various methods for typing additional characters, including diacritical marks and compose sequences.

A significant portion is dedicated to using the terminal's set-up screens to customize operational features, such as display settings (page size, lines/screen, screen alignment, background), language, and communication parameters. Advanced topics include managing two concurrent sessions, utilizing windows for multitasking, and performing copy-and-paste operations. The guide also covers connecting and configuring printers and modems, outlining different print modes and connectivity options.

A programming summary provides an overview of VT420 control functions and commands, character encoding, and session management. The document concludes with a problem-solving section, offering solutions for common operational issues, power-up self-tests, and error messages, along with information on Digital's service and support. Appendices include technical specifications, lists of compatible modems and cables, communication protocols, and detailed keyboard layouts.