InfoServer Client for Open VMS Installation Guide Nov92

This document is the Installation Guide for InfoServer Client for OpenVMS (Version 2.2 or later), published by Digital Equipment Corporation in November 1992.

Purpose: It provides instructions for installing software that enables OpenVMS clients (Version 5.0 or later) to access virtual device services provided by InfoServer systems (Version 2.0 or later) on a Local Area Network (LAN). The InfoServer functions as a virtual device server (not a file server), allowing clients to use their native file systems with shared devices.

Key Functions & Services: InfoServer systems can serve:

• Compact discs (automatically for ODS-2, High Sierra, ISO-9660 formats).
• Read/write disk partitions (appearing as local hard disks to clients).
• SCSI tape devices.
• They can also act as an initial load system for OpenVMS and downline load other network products (e.g., for X terminals).

Installation Process Highlights:

1. Preparation:

   • Requires an Ethernet device on the client system.
   • No specific license is required for the client, but the InfoServer system must have its Disk/Tape Function Software enabled.
   • The installation takes approximately 5 to 30 minutes.
   • Requires specific user privileges (e.g., CMKRNL, SYSPRV) and process account quotas.
   • A system disk backup is strongly recommended.
   • Checks for PATHWORKS or Remote System Manager (RSM) installations, as InfoServer Client startup must occur before these to prevent conflicts due to shared drivers. A warning is given for first-time Tape Client installation if the LAST transport is running, recommending a system reboot to avoid crashes.

2. Installation:

   • Uses the VMSINSTAL utility (e.g., @SYS$UPDATE:VMSINSTAL ESS022 MTA0: OPTIONS N).
   • Involves confirming system backup, mounting media, and optionally reviewing release notes and running an Installation Verification Procedure (IVP).
   • A system reboot is generally recommended after installation to complete the process, especially when introducing Tape Client support.

3. Post-Installation:

   • Requires editing system startup files (SYS$MANAGER:SYSTARTUP_V5.COM) to ensure automatic startup of InfoServer Client, positioned after DECnet startup and before PATHWORKS/RSM startups.
   • User accounts need specific privileges (GRPNAM, SYSNAM) for certain InfoServer Client commands (LADCP BIND).
   • Provides guidance on reporting problems to Digital's technical support.

Appendices: The document also includes appendices listing the files and logical names installed on the system and a sample installation procedure.