Rk05 Disk Drive Alignment Procedure

This document provides technical instructions for the alignment and preventative maintenance of the RK05 Disk Drive, primarily intended for use with PDP-8 family systems, though adaptable for PDP-11 systems.

Key procedures covered in the document include:

• Preparation and Cleaning: Instructions for cleaning the heads and spindle, verifying power supply voltages, and allowing the alignment cartridge to stabilize.
• Servo and Head Alignment: Detailed charts for performing servo adjustments (including limit, sine, and velocity offsets) and specific steps for head alignment using an alignment cartridge and oscilloscope. It emphasizes using proper tools (torque wrenches) to prevent damage.
• Data Separator Adjustment: Guidelines for adjusting the G180 data separator, which must be performed with a data pack loaded.
• Software and Controls: The document includes specific toggle-in program code for the PDP-8 and instructions for using the "ALIGNX" diagnostic software.
• Console Updates: It details updates to the ALIGNX software, specifically the inclusion of a software switch register console package for PDP-8A users, allowing for easier configuration of hardware and controller settings.

The document serves as a reference manual for technicians, providing specific pinouts, memory addresses for toggle-in programs, and critical safety warnings regarding equipment calibration.