DECnet-20 Network Generation and Installation Procedures Dec82

This document, "DECnet-20 Network Generation and Installation Procedures" (December 1982), outlines the comprehensive procedures for configuring, generating, and installing DECnet-20 software (V3.0) on DECSYSTEM-2040S/2060 systems running TOPS-20 V5.1 and GALAXY V4.2. It covers the setup of both DN20 front-end nodes and optional DN200 remote job entry (RJE) stations.

The semi-automated process involves several key stages and specialized configuration tools:

1. Initial System Setup: Creating necessary disk directories for generation and installation files, and restoring distribution tapes (DECnet-20 and RJE-20) containing various components, sources, and tools.
2. Node Generation (using NETGEN): The interactive NETGEN (NETwork GENeration) program is used to define the hardware and software characteristics of the DECnet-20 nodes (DN20 and DN200). This involves specifying parameters like node type, address, identification, communication links (DMC11s, DMR11s, KDPs), and management settings. NETGEN then generates configuration files (e.g., .MAC, .CNF).
3. Software Build: Batch control files (DN20SYS.CTL and DN200SYS.CTL) are submitted to assemble MACRO-II source modules, build PDP-11 formatted task images, and create the DN20 and DN200 system images (.SYS files). Log files must be checked for errors and system image size.
4. Network Configuration and Verification (using NIPGEN): The NIPGEN (Network Installation Procedure GENerator) program is run to create command and control files (.CMD, .CTL) essential for defining the network database, and for verifying and installing the configured DN20/DN200 nodes, the KL host node, and other remote nodes.
5. System Integration and Checkout: This involves editing critical system files (like PTYCON.ATO, CONFIG.CMD, SYSJOB.RUN, SYSTEM.CMD) to ensure the network software starts automatically upon system reboot. Subsequently, extensive network checkout procedures are performed using NIPGEN-generated control files (NIPLCL.CTL for host/DN20, NIPNM.CTL for Phase III loopback, NIPNFT.CTL for file transfer) to verify connectivity and functionality.
6. Final Deployment: Once all errors are resolved and the network is confirmed to be running successfully, the new DECnet-20 release is made the primary software.

The manual also provides details on hardware/software environments, space requirements, configuration tools (DUMPER, DNMAC, TKB36, VNP36), error messages, and a glossary of terms. It emphasizes the importance of careful preparation, reading the entire manual, and understanding parameter tradeoffs.