AlphaStation 200 Series

This document serves as a comprehensive guide for customers and Digital Services on upgrading their existing Digital systems to the Digital AlphaStation 200 Series. Its primary purpose is to provide step-by-step instructions for safely removing specific hardware options from various older Digital systems—including DECpc AXP 150, DEC 3000 Models 300/300L/300X/300LX, VAXstation 4000 VLC, VAXstation 4000 Models 60/90/90A, and several DECstation 5000 models—for reuse in the AlphaStation 200 Series.

The upgrade procedures outline how to handle internal and external disks (e.g., RZ25L, RZ26L, RZ28), tape drives/CD-ROMs (e.g., TLZ06, TZK11, RRD43), memory SIMMs (MS16-BA, MS16-DA), monitors, expansion boxes, and network adapters. Key steps common to most system upgrades include:

1. Pre-removal: Checking and noting existing SCSI ID settings for factory-installed drives.
2. System Preparation: Safely shutting down the system and disconnecting all cables.
3. Disassembly: Removing outer and inner covers, front bezels, and specific components like drives, option boards, and memory modules from the source system.
4. SCSI ID Configuration: Setting the correct and unique SCSI IDs on the drives intended for the AlphaStation 200 Series, as detailed in an appendix.
5. Completion & Administration: Following the Digital AlphaStation 200 Series User Information manual for installing the removed options, updating the customer service contract, and returning any non-upgradeable parts or the original system to Digital.

A critical warning is provided regarding the use of an antistatic wrist strap and mat to prevent irreparable damage to components from static discharge. The document emphasizes the importance of unique SCSI addresses for proper drive communication.