This document is the "PATHWORKS™ for Macintosh® Network Services User's Guide," one of three guides for the PATHWORKS for Macintosh software. It serves as a comprehensive manual for Macintosh users to understand, install, and utilize various network services provided by Digital Equipment Corporation's VAX computers.
The guide is structured into several key parts:
Overview of the User's Guides: Explains the purpose of this specific guide in relation to other PATHWORKS manuals (MacTerminal User's Guide, MacX User's Guide) and offers different approaches for users to navigate the documentation (e.g., complete introduction vs. quick start). It also defines common terminology and visual conventions used throughout.
Installation: Provides detailed instructions for setting up PATHWORKS for Macintosh on a Macintosh computer. This section covers hardware and system software requirements (including specific Macintosh models, memory, disk space, and Apple software like System 6.0.4+, AppleShare workstation, and AppleTalk Phase 2). It outlines the installation process using the PATHWORKS Installer and describes the various software components, such as applications (MacTerminal, MacX), communications tools (connection, terminal emulation, file-transfer), and system file resources (AppleShare, EtherTalk 2.0).
Using Network Services: This core section delves into the practical use of the network services:
- VAXshare File Services: Explains how Macintosh users can store, access, and share files on VAX computers, leveraging VAX's large storage capacity and security features. It details logging on as a registered user or guest, mounting volumes, and setting access privileges for folders. Differences from AppleShare file servers, such as handling of VMS file versions and directory structures, are also discussed.
- VAXshare Print Services: Describes how to use VAX computers as print servers for network printers, including Digital PostScript and Apple LaserWriter printers. It covers selecting print servers, understanding VMS print queues, and offers troubleshooting tips for printing issues.
- Terminal Services: Guides users on how to use their Macintosh to emulate a terminal (via MacTerminal) to access VMS operating system accounts (allowing execution of Digital Command Language - DCL - commands like changing passwords and listing directories) or specific terminal service applications. It outlines various connection methods, including network connections (LAT, CTERM) and direct modem/serial connections.
- MacX and DECwindows Applications: Introduces MacX, Apple's implementation of the X Window System, enabling Macintosh users to access and run DECwindows applications (X clients) that reside on VAX computers. It explains how to start MacX, select network connections and gateways, use the Session Manager to launch applications, and details differences in mouse and keyboard behavior for this environment.
Appendices:
- Network Basics: Offers a foundational understanding of computer networks, explaining concepts like nodes, packets, communication protocols, and the architecture of both Apple (AppleTalk, LocalTalk) and Digital (Ethernet, DECnet, LAT) networks. It also details how these different environments can be connected using devices like bridges, routers, and gateways.
- VAXshare Management Command Reference: Provides a reference for non-privileged Digital Command Language (DCL) commands used to manage VAXshare file and print servers (e.g.,
ADD ALIAS, MOUNT, DISMOUNT, SHOW VOLUME, SHOW PRINTER).
The document also includes troubleshooting sections integrated within each service chapter and a comprehensive glossary and index for quick reference. It is designed to help Macintosh users, including those unfamiliar with Digital systems or networking, effectively connect to and utilize VAX-based network resources.