Alpha Motherboards Software Developer's Kit Read Me First

This "Read Me First" document introduces Version 4.0 of the Compaq Alpha Motherboards Software Developer's Kit (SDK), dated April 1999. It is designed for system designers and developers to create and customize software and firmware for Alpha motherboards, specifically supporting AlphaPC 264DP, 164SX, and 164LX models.

The document details the SDK's contents, which include:

• Source Code and Tools: Such as the Debug Monitor, SROM Power-Up Code, SROM Mini-Debugger, sample PALcode (Privileged Architecture Library code), and various software design tools (e.g., GNU-based assembler, compression, formatting, and PALcode validation utilities).
• Firmware Images: Precompiled Debug Monitors for supported motherboards.
• Documentation: Various online PDF manuals related to the SDK, Debug Monitor, Software Design Tools, SROM Mini-Debugger, and general Alpha architecture.

It provides comprehensive instructions for:

• Installation: Step-by-step procedures and system requirements for installing the SDK on both Windows NT (V4.0 Service Pack 3 with Microsoft Visual C++ V5.0+) and Tru64 UNIX (V4.0A+ with DEC C++ V5.7+).
• Building Components: Instructions for building SDK components and tools from source code on both supported operating systems.

Additionally, the document offers support information, including how to obtain firmware updates for SRM Console and Windows NT (from a separate CD-ROM or the Alpha OEM website) and directs users to the Alpha OEM website for further documentation and customer support resources.