AlphaStation 500 Family Media Adapter Unit (MAU) Installation Information

This document, EK-ALFTH-IS. B01, provides instructions for installing and configuring a Media Adapter Unit (MAU) module in AlphaStation 500 Family systems. These MAU modules extend the system's embedded Ethernet Controller to support either ThickWire/ThinWire or Twisted Pair (10Base-T) network capabilities.

Key points include:

• Safety Precaution: Always wear a grounded wrist strap when working with internal components.
• Installation Procedure: This involves powering down the system, unplugging it, unlocking and removing the top cover, disconnecting existing Ethernet cables, removing the old MAU (if present), sliding in the new MAU card, reattaching cables, securing the card with a screw, and finally replacing the cover.

• Port Selection/Configuration:

  • For OpenVMS or Digital UNIX AlphaStation 500 Family systems, the specific Ethernet port type must be configured using SRM console commands:
    • >>>set ewa0 mode AUI (for ThickWire and ThinWire ports)
    • >>>set ewa0 mode twisted (for the 10Base-T twisted pair port)
  • After changing the port, either type >>>init or power cycle the machine.
  • Windows NT operating systems automatically detect which network port is connected.

• Regulatory Information: The document also includes standard legal disclaimers, trademark information, and details regarding FCC Class B compliance, offering guidance on resolving potential radio frequency interference issues (e.g., reorienting antennas, increasing separation, or consulting a technician).