Console User's Guide VAX 8800/8700/8550/8500

This document, the "CONSOLE USER'S GUIDE" (Order Number AA-FH28C-TE), published in July 1986 by Digital Equipment Corporation, provides comprehensive instructions for operating the console of VAX 8800, 8700, 8550, and 8500 computer systems.

Aimed at VAX system managers, operators, and field service representatives, the guide covers:

• Console Operation: Explaining how to use the console to control the VAX systems, including initial setup, starting and stopping the system, and moving between console and program modes.
• System Hardware: An overview of the VAX system architecture (including its dual-CPU configuration for the VAX 8800 and single-CPU for other models), the console's role as a separate computer system, and its components like the Environmental Monitoring Module (EMM), Real Time Interface (RTI), and various storage devices.
• Console System Software: Details on the console operating system (P/OS), the console program's functions (acting as a "soft" processor control panel, managing command modes, handling multiple command streams, and status monitoring), and log files.
• Commands: Extensive descriptions of both general console commands and Micromonitor (diagnostic) commands, detailing their syntax, parameters, options, and qualifiers.
• Installation and Maintenance: Procedures for installing the console operating system and applications, editing boot command files, and interpreting system messages for troubleshooting.