MicroVAX Site Preparation

This document, "MicroVAX Site Preparation," published in July 1988 by Digital Equipment Corporation, provides essential physical, environmental, and electrical requirements for installing various MicroVAX systems (including MicroVAX II, 3500, 3600, VAXserver 3600/3602, and VAXstation II/GPX) in their respective enclosures (BA23, BA123, BA213, H9642, H9644).

Key aspects covered include:

• Physical Requirements: Detailed dimensions and weights of the systems and their shipping containers, along with necessary clearance around the equipment for operation and servicing (e.g., for disk drive extension and airflow). It also advises on the need for multiple people or a forklift for moving heavier units.
• Operating Environment: Specifications for acoustic emission levels (noting that H9642/H9644 cabinets are noisier and better suited for computer rooms, while others are for office environments), guidelines to prevent static electricity (e.g., maintaining humidity, using antistatic mats), heat dissipation values, and precise temperature and humidity ranges for both operating and non-operating conditions, including altitude limits.
• Electrical Requirements: Recommendations for using dedicated power circuits with isolated ground paths to prevent power disturbances, and detailed tables outlining voltage ranges, nominal frequencies, maximum steady-state currents, inrush currents, power consumption, and compatible power cords for different systems and regions (e.g., 100 Vac, 120 Vac, 220-240 Vac).

The guide emphasizes that site preparation is crucial to ensure system reliability and recommends inspection by a Digital service representative upon delivery. It also advises on planning space for additional equipment like terminals and printers.