VAXstation 2000 and MicroVAX 2000

This document is a Technical Manual for the VAXstation 2000 and MicroVAX 2000 computer systems, published by Digital Equipment Corporation in July 1987.

The manual provides a comprehensive and detailed overview of the hardware design concepts, functional specifications, and programming information for these systems.

Key aspects covered include:

1. System Introduction: Describes the physical components of both the VAXstation 2000 (system box, video monitor, keyboard, mouse) and MicroVAX 2000 (system box with DEC423 converter, video console terminal, keyboard), along with their physical characteristics.
2. Functional System Overview: Presents a high-level functional description of the core system module (VS410), which is central to both machines. This includes the central processor (DC333 MicroVAX CPU and DC337 FPU), system memory (RAM, ROM, Video RAM), the DC524 "Standard Cell" (controlling I/O, memory, video, interrupts), and dedicated chips for cursor display (DC503), serial lines, disk control (9224), tape control (5380), and ThinWire Ethernet.
3. Detailed System Module Description: Chapter 3 offers an in-depth technical dive into each component and function of the VS410 system module, including bus cycle descriptions, memory management, register formats, timing details, and specific chip pinouts.
4. Option Modules & Peripherals:
   • MS400 Option Memory Modules: Details optional RAM modules for memory expansion (2MB, 4MB, 12MB).
   • ThinWire Ethernet (DESVA) Option Module: Explains the Ethernet connectivity, including the LANCE and SIA chips, packet formats, and programming.
   • Resistor Load Module: Describes its role in regulating power for expansion boxes with fewer drives.
   • Power Supply: Lists specifications for the H7848 power supply.
   • Drives: Provides overviews and specifications for supported diskette drives (RX33), hard disk drives (RD32, RD53, RD54), and tape drives (TK50).
   • DEC423 Converter (MicroVAX 2000): Specific to the MicroVAX 2000, this section describes the converter used for serial line connections to terminals and printers.
   • Expansion Peripherals: Covers external expansion boxes for additional hard disks and tape drives.
5. Appendices: Include timing diagrams and physical address maps for technical reference.

The manual is intended for a technical audience, providing the necessary information for understanding the system architecture, hardware functions, and hardware-level programming.