VAX-11/RSX-11M User’'s Guide

This document, the "VAX-11/RSX-11M User's Guide" (March 1980, Order No. AA-D037B-TE), serves as a comprehensive manual for users transitioning from or operating in the RSX-11M environment within the VAX/VMS Version 02 operating system.

Primary Objective: To enable RSX-11M users to leverage the VAX/VMS MCR (Macro Control Routine) command language, execute MCR indirect command files, and utilize RSX-11M Version 3.2 components (like the Task Builder) under VAX/VMS. It aims to provide a familiar operational environment while encouraging a transition to VAX/VMS functionalities.

Key Areas Covered:

1. Introduction to VAX/VMS MCR: Explains that VAX/VMS offers two command languages (DCL and MCR) and positions MCR as integral for RSX-11M compatibility and system generation hosting. It outlines requirements for executing RSX-11M images on VAX/VMS and lists standard RSX-11M program development utilities (e.g., MACRO-11, EDI, TKB, PIP, FLX) provided by VAX/VMS.
2. VAX/VMS Environment: Details fundamental VAX/VMS concepts such as processes (vs. RSX-11M tasks), user authorization (UICs), file and process protection, privileges, and priorities. It describes VAX/VMS file specifications, including device names, directory names, and version numbers, and how logical names and automatic/explicit device mapping (especially for RSX-11M pseudodevices) function.
3. Using VAX/VMS MCR: Provides practical guidance on logging in (and selecting MCR as the command interpreter), preparing and running both RSX-11M and native VAX-11 images, and program development using both RSX-11M and VAX/VMS components. It also covers building RSX-11M images for execution under VAX/VMS.
4. Detailed MCR Commands: Presents a comprehensive reference for numerous MCR commands (e.g., ALLOCATE, APPEND, ASSIGN, COPY, DELETE, DIRECTORY, MOUNT, RUN, SET, SHOW, STOP, SUBMIT, TIME, TYPE, UFD), detailing their syntax, keywords, and functions. Throughout these descriptions, specific differences and compatibility notes with RSX-11M commands are highlighted.
5. Indirect Command Files: Explores the use of RSX-11M indirect command files under VAX/VMS MCR, including supported and unsupported directives, special symbols, numeric symbols, and lexical functions. It also provides information on nesting command files and operational notes.
6. System Generation: Explains how VAX/VMS can act as a host for RSX-11M/S system generation, detailing necessary privileges and the creation of an unprotected disk.

Intended Audience: RSX-11M users who need to run existing RSX-11M images or native VAX-11 images, and develop new applications using the VAX/VMS MCR command language. The manual specifically addresses differences between the two operating system environments to aid in user adaptation and program development.