DECserver 500 Management Dec1989

This revised manual, "DECserver 500 Management," provides a comprehensive guide for server managers responsible for the initial setup and day-to-day administration of the DECserver 500, 510, and 550 series terminal servers. Published in December 1989, it applies to software Version 2.0 and subsequent maintenance releases.

The document details how to configure ports and customize the server's permanent, operational, and log-in databases. It covers fundamental server concepts including:

• Operating Modes: Local mode (for server commands) and Service mode (for connecting to network services).
• Server Databases: Permanent (stored in the server image on load hosts), Operational (dynamic memory, temporary changes), and Log-in (stores operational port characteristics for next login).
• Port Devices: Explaining how the server connects various devices like terminals, printers, personal computers, modems, and 3270-class terminals to an Ethernet Local Area Network (LAN).
• Key Features: Log-in load balancing, automatic failover for service continuity, group management for access control and security, and automatic node database management on large LAT networks.
• Security Features: Passwords (privileged, log-in, maintenance, service, lock), security status levels (secure, non-privileged, privileged), modem control, and DSRLogout.

The manual outlines initial management tasks, such as coordinating with network and system managers, establishing security passwords, and customizing/down-line loading the server image. It then delves into day-to-day management, covering:

• Management Tools: Server commands (SET, SHOW, MONITOR), Terminal Server Configurator (TSC) for permanent database changes, Load Host Configuration Procedure (DSVCONFIG), Remote Console Facility (RCF), and the optional Terminal Server Manager (TSM).
• Detailed Procedures: For maintaining security, managing down-line loads, making use of groups, configuring local-access ports, managing sessions (displaying and terminating), setting up and managing modem control and flow control, offering printers as local services (including queuing and host-initiated requests), managing file transfers, and integrating the server into the LAT network.
• Specific Configurations: Provides examples and guidelines for cabling and configuring ports for common applications, such as general-purpose terminals, dedicated service terminals, PCs as terminals/services, various printer setups, non-LAT hosts, and different modem types.
• Server Characteristics: A comprehensive reference section detailing port, server, service, and device characteristics, including default values and descriptions.
• Information Displays: Explains various display commands (SHOW, MONITOR, LIST) and their output for devices, nodes, ports, queues, services, sessions, users, and TSC usage, aiding in monitoring and troubleshooting.

Appendices include information on MOP System ID message formats, the TSC Defaults Command File, and detailed steps for setting up remote printers for VMS systems. This guide is intended to be used with other DECserver 500 series hardware, software installation, and command/message manuals.