AlphaPC 164SX Motherboard Technical Reference Manual

This document is the Compaq AlphaPC 164SX Motherboard Technical Reference Manual.

It provides a comprehensive overview of the AlphaPC 164SX motherboard, designed for computing systems based on the Alpha 21164PC microprocessor and the 21174 core logic chip. The manual serves as a guide for system designers and evaluators, detailing the motherboard's features, configuration, functional operation, and interfaces.

Key topics covered include:

• System Components and Features: Descriptions of the 21174 core logic chip, memory subsystem (SDRAM configurations up to 512MB), L2 Bcache, PCI and ISA interface overviews, and other I/O devices (EIDE, serial, parallel, diskette).
• System Configuration and Connectors: Details on board connectors, switch functions for configuring parameters like system speed, boot settings, and Bcache size.
• Power and Environmental Requirements: Specifications for power supply, operating environment, and board dimensions (ATX standard).
• Functional Description: In-depth explanation of the operational aspects, including the 21174 core logic chip, memory interface, PCI and ISA bus devices, interrupts, system clocks, and reset/initialization processes.
• Upgrading the AlphaPC 164SX: Guidance on upgrading SDRAM memory and increasing microprocessor speed.
• Support, Products, and Documentation: Information on customer support, supporting hardware products (memory, thermal, power supply, enclosure), and references to additional Alpha and third-party technical documentation.