DECserver 300 Introduction Jun89

This document is the "DECserver 300 Introduction" manual, published by Digital Equipment Corporation in June 1989.

It provides a comprehensive overview of the DECserver 300 system, describing it as a terminal server designed to connect various data-leads-only devices (like printers and terminals) to an Ethernet Local Area Network (LAN) using LAT (Local Area Transport) protocols.

The manual details the system's core components:

• Hardware: Including its Main Logic Module (with CPU, Ethernet circuitry, RAM/ROM), EIA-423-A distribution module (featuring 16 MMJ connectors for devices, compatible with EIA-232-D via adapters), power supply, fans, and rear-panel controls and indicators.
• Firmware: ROM-based diagnostic programs and Maintenance Operation Protocol (MOP) for down-line loading.
• Software: Residing on a load host, utilizing permanent and operational databases for server configuration.

Key features and capabilities of the DECserver 300 highlighted in the manual include:

• Support for up to 16 asynchronous devices and 128 total simultaneous user sessions.
• Fast connections, simplified cabling, efficient device traffic management, and login load balancing.
• Compatibility with both standard and ThinWire Ethernet networks.
• Support for a wide range of Digital and non-Digital terminals, personal computers, and printers.
• Utilization of the EIA-423-A communication standard.

Beyond the system overview, the manual covers various server configurations (e.g., direct Ethernet, DELNI, broadband, ThinWire connections), provides guidelines for reconfiguring and expanding the server's capacity, outlines the extensive documentation set available for the DECserver 300 (including reference, procedural, and quick reference guides), and offers comprehensive ordering information for hardware, software, accessories, and cables. The intended audience includes terminal users, server managers, software installers, network managers, and field service engineers.