Firefox Workstation Packaging

This document describes the hardware packaging and physical components of the Firefox workstation, a system developed by Digital Equipment Corporation in 1987.

The Firefox workstation is built around the Fbox, a customized version of the standard BA213-series Sbox enclosure. The Fbox features a unique 12-slot backplane, with nine slots dedicated to Firefox-specific modules (including dual-CVAX processors, graphics, I/O, and memory) and three available for standard Q-bus peripherals. It houses up to four 5.25-inch mass storage devices.

Key components and features detailed include:

• DSSI Control Panel: A front panel providing operator control signals for mass storage units (write-protect, run/stop, fault indicators, unit IDs), power supply status (DCOK LED), and system Halt/Reset switches.
• Modular Power Supplies: One or two H7868 power supplies provide +5V and +12V outputs, along with fan power, and incorporate signals like BDCOK (DC voltages within limits) and BPOK (power system ready for normal operation).
• Mass Storage: Support for RF30 (150 Mbytes) and RF71 (400 Mbytes) hard disk units, and TF30 (95 Mbytes) and TF70 (296 Mbytes) cartridge tape units, all using the DSSI architecture.
• Covers: Metal covers form part of the RF shield, with specific I/O and graphics cover assemblies that house connectors, a battery, and system status displays.
• Peripherals: A new VR295 monitor (1280x1024 resolution, 19-inch), standard LK201/LK301 keyboards, a VSXXX-AA mouse, and an optional VSXXX-AB graphics tablet.
• Cabling: Various specialized and standard cables connect the monitor, keyboard, mouse, modem, Ethernet (ThickWire/ThinWire), and internal modules.

The document provides detailed physical descriptions, pin assignments, and functional specifications for these hardware elements, emphasizing the modularity and integration specific to the Firefox workstation's design.