MicroVAX 3100 Model 90 Troubleshooting and Diag Information

This manual, "MicroVAX 3100 Model 90 Troubleshooting and Diagnostic Information" (EK-A0607-TI. B01, December 1993), provides procedures and diagnostic commands for resolving basic problems with the MicroVAX 3100 Model 90 system. It is designed for users with some computer experience.

Key areas covered include:

• General Troubleshooting: Guides users through initial physical checks, such as verifying all cables, loopback connectors, and terminators are correctly connected and undamaged. It also details the proper power-up sequence for the system and its peripherals. A "Basic Troubleshooting Table" provides a systematic approach, matching symptoms with possible causes and suggested solutions for the system unit and various peripheral devices (e.g., RRD42 Compact Disc Drive, TZ30/TLZ06/TZK10/TZK11 Tape Drives, RX26 Diskette Drive, and RZ-Series SCSI Disk Drives).

• Diagnostic Tests and Commands: Describes the use of built-in diagnostic tools to isolate problems.

  • Power-Up Tests: Explains the automatic diagnostics run when the system powers on, the meaning of the test display, and how the system behaves (entering console mode or attempting automatic bootstrap) depending on HALT action and whether minor or severe errors are encountered. Specific examples of memory error messages are provided.
  • Diagnostic Tests and Utilities: Details how to list available tests (T 9E) and run specific diagnostic tests (TEST or T followed by the test number) for individual devices or functions, including option cards. It also clarifies that some listed tests are for other MicroVAX models.
  • Configuration Display (SHOW CONFIG): Explains how to view the system's detected hardware configuration and any errors reported from recent diagnostic activities.
  • Error Display (SHOW ERROR): Shows how to retrieve and interpret detailed error messages from the last power-up test or diagnostic utility run.

• Contacting Digital Services: Outlines the essential information users should gather—including problem descriptions, error messages, failed tests, status LED readings, and serial/model numbers of equipment—before contacting authorized Digital Services personnel for further assistance.