VAXstation 3100 Model 48 Owner's Manual

This document is the Owner's Manual for the VAXstation 3100 Model 48, published by Digital Equipment Corporation in July 1990. It serves as a comprehensive guide for first-time users on how to install, test, and maintain the hardware components of their computer system.

The manual covers:

1. System Overview: Introduces the VAXstation 3100 Model 48 as a desktop server/workstation capable of running VMS or ULTRIX operating systems. It highlights key features such as its integrated RRD40 compact disc drive and TZ30 tape drive, support for various hard disk configurations (RZ23, RZ24, RZ55), memory expansion, SCSI connectivity, windowing software (DECwindows, VWS/UIS), and password security features.
2. Hardware Installation: Provides detailed instructions for setting up the system, including choosing an appropriate location, unpacking components, connecting essential peripherals like the keyboard, mouse, and monitor, attaching Ethernet terminators, and managing power connections. It also covers initial system startup procedures and pre-installation steps for the operating system.
3. System Operation: Explains how to interact with the system's internal storage devices (hard disks, CD-ROM, tape drive), including loading and removing media, caring for cartridges and discs, and understanding indicator lights.
4. Expansion and Options: Guides users on adding and configuring external expansion boxes for additional storage (RZ55 hard disks, TK50Z-GA tape drives, RRD40 compact disc drives), including daisy-chaining multiple units and setting SCSI IDs. It also details connecting optional hardware like printers, modems, tablets, and various monitors with graphics coprocessor or accelerator options.
5. Network Connectivity: Offers instructions for connecting the VAXstation 3100 to both ThinWire and Standard Ethernet networks, setting up daisy-chain work groups, and troubleshooting common network issues.
6. Troubleshooting and Diagnostics: Provides methods for identifying and resolving hardware problems, including interpreting power-up messages and error codes, running self-tests and system exercisers, and using console commands for configuration and security.
7. Technical Reference: Includes appendices with detailed system parameters, SCSI ID default settings, comprehensive lists of status and error codes for various components, and hardware specifications. A glossary of technical terms and an index are also provided.

The document also contains an FCC Notice regarding radio frequency energy emissions, noting that operation in a residential area may require the user to resolve interference at their own expense.