DEC 3000 Model 500/500S AXP Options Guide

This guide provides comprehensive instructions for installing and managing various internal and external options for the DEC 3000 Model 500/500S AXP system. It is intended for users comfortable with opening the system unit and performing hardware installations.

The document covers:

• Preparation for Installation: Essential steps before adding internal options, including backing up files, shutting down software and hardware, displaying current system configurations (using show device, show memory, show config commands), removing system panels, and using an antistatic wrist strap to prevent damage.

• Internal Options: Detailed chapters are dedicated to specific internal components:

  • RRD42 Compact Disc Drive: Description, capacity (600 MB), purpose (OS installation, read-only databases), configuration of SCSI address jumpers, installation steps, usage instructions (loading/removing discs, controls), and specifications.
  • RX26 Diskette Drive: Description, capacity (2 or 4 MB), purpose (file backup, loading applications), SCSI address switch setting, installation, usage (write-protecting, inserting/removing diskettes), and specifications.
  • TZK10 Tape Drive & TLZ06 Tape Drive: Description, capacity (320-525 MB for TZK10, 4.0 GB for TLZ06), purpose (file backup, loading applications), configuration of jumpers/switches for operating system and SCSI address, installation, usage (handling tape cartridges, write-protection, inserting/removing tapes, controls and indicators), and detailed specifications.
  • RZ25 Fixed Disk Drive & RZ26 Fixed Disk Drive: Description, capacity (426 MB for RZ25, 1.05 GB for RZ26), purpose (storing applications/files), SCSI address jumper setting, installation and removal procedures, and specifications.
  • Memory Modules: Information on 4 MB and 8 MB modules, how to determine needed modules, installation guidelines (in sets of eight to four memory motherboards, MMBs), and removal.
  • TURBOchannel Options: Overview of high-performance modules for graphics, multimedia, and communications (e.g., HX/TX 2D Graphics, PXG+ 3D Graphics, FDDIcontroller, AUI Ethernet, Dual SCSI, NVRAM modules), their slots, pre-installation preparation (jumpers, spacers), installation, and removal.

• System Restoration: Steps to reassemble the system (replacing panels), store the antistatic wrist strap, and restart and test the system after option installation, including how to troubleshoot common issues.

• External Options: A brief overview of available external devices like console terminals, dial boxes, headsets, modems, printers, programmable function keyboards, storage expansion boxes, and tablets, noting that their installation does not require opening the system unit.

The guide emphasizes the importance of unique SCSI addresses for drives and proper antistatic precautions to prevent component damage. It also provides references to associated documentation for more detailed information.