VAX 8600 System Upgrade Procedure

This document, "VAX 8600 System Upgrade Procedure (EK-86001-S1-001)", published by Digital Equipment Corporation in May 1986, details the steps for Digital Field Service personnel to upgrade a VAX 8600 computer system to a VAX 8650 system.

The procedure is structured into three main phases:

1. Pre-Upgrade Audit and Preparation: Field Service conducts a system audit to determine the current hardware and software revisions of the VAX 8600 and any connected VAXcluster nodes. This includes verifying minimum software requirements (VAX/VMS version 4.3 or higher, or ULTRIX version 1.2 or higher). Based on this audit, the appropriate upgrade kits (e.g., 861UP-AA, 861UP-BA) and necessary memory modules (MS86-AA) are ordered. Prior to the upgrade, the customer is informed about the need to back up data from the RL02 disk pack, and baseline diagnostic tests are performed on the VAX 8600.

2. System Installation: This phase involves:

   • System shutdown and preparation.
   • Physical replacement of specific CPU and memory modules (e.g., CSL, EPROM, and various memory array modules) as identified by the audit.
   • Installation of a new VAX 8650 control panel label and Option ID label.
   • Adjustment of internal system jumpers (J9 connector).
   • Powering on the new VAX 8650 system.
   • Verifying the system identification (SID register) and setting/checking the clock frequency (initially 74 MHz for high-margin diagnostics, then 72 MHz for normal operation).
   • Running comprehensive VAX 8650 checkout diagnostics.
   • Assisting the customer with operating system updates and loading procedures.

3. Disposition of Replaced Modules: All removed VAX 8600 components are handled according to specific procedures. This includes completing a Material Return Form and obtaining a Return Authorization (RA) number from Customer Administrative Services (CAS). The replaced modules must then be returned to the Idle Material Management (IMM) group using designated return part numbers.

The document emphasizes that Field Service Engineers should be trained and experienced with VAX 8600 systems, and highlights the critical requirement that all system components meet specified minimum hardware and software revisions before the upgrade can commence.