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EK-DSRVE-OM-001

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Document:	DECserver 90TL Owner's Manual
Order Number:	EK-DSRVE-OM
Revision:	001
Pages:	73
Original Filename:

OCR Text

DECserver 90TL
Owner’s Manual
Order Number: DSRVE-OM-001

CAUTION

The DECserver 90TL is not intended for use with telecommunications
networks or with Integrated Services Digital Network (ISDN) devices.

ACHTUNG

Der DECserver 90TL darf nicht als Teil eines Fernmeldenetzwerks
oder zusammen mit ISDN1 -Geräten betrieben werden.
(1 Integrated Services Digital Network)

ATTENTION

Le DECserver 90TL n’a pas été conçu pour fonctionner avec des
réseaux de télécommunication ou des modules ISDN (Integrated
Services Digital Network).

A VISO
IMPORTANTE

El DECserver 90TL no ha sido diseñado para su uso con redes de
telecomunicaciones ni dispositivos de Red Digital Servicios Integrados
(ISDN).

The information in this document is subject to change without notice and should not
be construed as a commitment by Digital Equipment Corporation. Digital Equipment
Corporation assumes no responsibility for any errors that may appear in this document.
The software described in this document is furnished under a license and may only be
used or copied in accordance with the terms of such license.
No responsibility is assumed for the use or reliability of software on equipment that is not
supplied by Digital or its affiliated companies.
Restricted Rights: Use, duplication, or disclosure by the U.S. Government is subject to
restrictions as set forth in subparagraph (c) (1) (ii) of the Rights in Technical Data and
Computer Software clause at DFARS 252.227-7013.
Copyright © 1992 by Digital Equipment Corporation
All Rights Reserved
FCC NOTICE – The equipment described in this manual generates, uses and may emit
radio frequency energy. The equipment has been type tested and found to comply with
the limits for a Class A computing device pursuant to Subpart J of Part 15 of FCC
Rules, which are designed to provide reasonable protection against such radio frequency
interference when operated in a commercial environment. Operation of this equipment in
a residential area may cause interference, in which case the user at his own expense may
be required to take measures to correct the interference.
The following are trademarks of Digital Equipment Corporation:
DEC, DECconnect, DEChub, DECUS, DECserver, LAT, PDP, ThinWire, ULTRIX, UNIBUS,
VAX, VMS and the Digital logo.
The following are third-party trademarks:
MS–DOS is a registered trademark of Microsoft Corporation.
UNIX is a registered trademark of UNIX System Laboratories, Inc.

This manual was produced by Telecommunications and Networks Publications.

This document was prepared using VAX DOCUMENT, Version 2.0.

Contents
About This Manual . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

vii

1 Overview
Features . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Description . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

1–1
1–4

2 Installation
Tabletop Installation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Wallmount Installation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Backplane Installation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Running Self-Tests . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Loading Server Software . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Verifying Ports . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

2–2
2–4
2–6
2–8
2–9
2–10

3 Management
Setup Planning . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Connecting the Communications Server to Your Network . . . . . . .
LAT Network . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
TCP/IP Network . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Server Management Options . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Setting Port Characteristics . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Setting Port Access . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Matching Port and Device Characteristics . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Setting Flow Control . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Setting Automatic Logout Characteristics . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Additional Port Customization Settings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Connecting Interactive Devices . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Using an Interactive Device as a Network Service . . . . . . . . . .
Connecting Noninteractive Devices . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Offering Services to the Network . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

3–2
3–3
3–3
3–4
3–5
3–6
3–7
3–7
3–10
3–11
3–12
3–13
3–14
3–15
3–17

iii

Offering LAT Services to the Network . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Offering Services to the Network Through the Telnet
Listener . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Setting Up a Port for SLIP Access by an IP Host . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Security for Interactive and Noninteractive Devices . . . . . . . . . . .
Management Tools . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Communications Server Commands . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Online Help . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Remote Console Port . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
DSVCONFIG Configuration Procedure . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Terminal Server Manager Software . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
SNMP Access . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Communications Server Databases . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

3–17
3–18
3–19
3–20
3–21
3–21
3–22
3–23
3–23
3–23
3–23
3–24

4 Operation
Getting Started . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Using Online Help . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Establishing Sessions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Establishing LAT Sessions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Establishing Telnet Sessions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Establishing a Temporary SLIP Session . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Managing Sessions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Using TD/SMP Support . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Asian Terminal Support . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Performing File Transfers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

4–2
4–2
4–3
4–3
4–3
4–4
4–5
4–5
4–5
4–6

5 Troubleshooting
A Specifications
Physical Specifications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Environmental Specifications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Power Specifications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Power Supply . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Communications Server . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Communications Server Connector Pin Out . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Cable Connector Pin Out . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
LAT Specifications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

A–1
A–2
A–3
A–3
A–3
A–4
A–5
A–7

B Related Documentation
Documentation Ordering Information . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Continental USA and Puerto Rico . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Canada . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
New Hampshire, Alaska, or Hawaii . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
International . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Internal Orders . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

B–1
B–1
B–2
B–2
B–2
B–2

Index
Figures
1–1
1–2
2–1
2–2
2–3
A–1
A–2
A–3

DECserver 90TL Hardware . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
DECserver 90TL Connection . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Standalone Configuration . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Removing the Back Cover . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Backplane Installation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Port Circuit . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
BN25G Equipment Cable Wiring Diagram . . . . . . . . .
BN24H Office Cable Wiring Diagram . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

1–2
1–5
2–3
2–5
2–7
A–4
A–5
A–6

LOAD and DUMP Protocols . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Default Console Port Terminal Characteristics . . . . . .
DECserver 90TL Troubleshooting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Physical Dimensions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Operating Environment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Shipping Environment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Default Server Characteristics . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Default Port Characteristics . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

2–10
2–10
5–2
A–1
A–2
A–2
A–7
A–7

Tables
2–1
2–2
5–1
A–1
A–2
A–3
A–4
A–5

About This Manual
This manual describes the procedures used to install, operate, manage and
troubleshoot the DECserver™ 90TL Ethernet communications server.

Organization
This manual contains the following five chapters and two appendixes:
Chapter

Description

Provides an overview of the communications server features.

Describes selected methods of communications server installation.

Describes basic communications server management.

Describes basic communications server operation.

Describes troubleshooting techniques.

Appendix A

Describes communications server specifications.

Appendix B

Provides a list of reference documentation and ordering information.

For additional information on the communications server software, refer to the
DECserver 90TL software installation documentation available for this product.

vii

Conventions
The following are conventions used in this manual.
Convention

Meaning

Special type

This special type in examples indicates system output or user
input.

UPPERCASE

Uppercase letters in command lines indicate keywords that
must be entered. You can enter keywords in either uppercase
or lowercase. You can abbreviate command keywords to the
smallest number of characters that distinguish the keyword to
the communications server.

lowercase italics

Lowercase italics in command syntax or examples indicate
variables for which either the user or the system supplies a
value.

BOLD

In summaries of characteristics, bold type indicates default
values.

{ }

Braces in command syntax statements indicate that you must
specify one of the enclosed values. Do not type the braces.

[ ]

Square brackets in command syntax statements indicate that
the enclosed value(s) are optional. You can enter none or one.
Default values apply for unspecified options. Do not type the
brackets.

Vertical list
of options

In command syntax statements, a vertical list of options not
enclosed within braces or brackets or parentheses indicates
that you may specify none or any number of the options.
Unspecified options take a default value.

A slash between command verbs indicates related, alternative
commands or options. For example,
SET/DEFINE/CHANGE PORT refers to the SET PORT,
DEFINE PORT, and CHANGE PORT commands.

Ctrl/x

Hold down the Ctrl key and press the key specified by x. The
communications server displays this key combination as ^x.

viii

1
Overview
This chapter describes hardware, software, and network features of
the DECserver™ 90TL Ethernet communications server, referred to as
‘‘communications server’’ throughout this document.

Features
The communications server supports the following standard features:
•

Rack mountable in the DEChub™ 90
Ethernet backplane

•

Concurrent LAT and Telnet support

•

Ready-in/ready-out or XON/XOFF
flow control

•

Manageable by remote console from
VMS™, ULTRIX™, or UNIX™ based
systems and Terminal Server Manager
(TSM) software

•

Command line recall and editing

•

Domain Name System

•

Supports Open DECconnect™

•

Port Characteristics
—1 ThinWire port
—8 asynchronous ports
—6-wire control signaling
—Individual port status LEDs
—8-wire modular jack - MJ8
(also known as RJ45)

•

Protocols supported
—Local Area Terminal (LAT)
—Telnet
—Boot (BOOTP)
—Serial Line Internet (SLIP)
—Management Operations (MOP)
—Multisession (TD/SMP)
—Trivial File Transfer (TFTP)
—Simple Network Management
(SNMP)

Overview 1–1

Overview

Figure 1–1 shows the communications server and calls out its features.
Figure 1–1 DECserver 90TL Hardware
6

1
2
3

2
3
4

5
6
7
8
10

LJ-01567-TI0

1–2 Overview

Overview

Power Indicator – Lights and remains lit when +5 volts is supplied to the
communications server.

Self-Test OK Indicator – Lights when the communications server has
successfully completed the ROM-based self-tests.

Network OK Indicator – Lights when the communications server is
connected to an appropriately terminated network. Blinks while the
communications server is loading or dumping software.

Port Activity Indicators – Consists of eight LEDs, each corresponding to a
device port on the communications server. Each port activity LED will light
when the associated port is in use by the connected device. These LEDs blink
when port activity is detected and continue blinking until port data transfer
has ceased.

Ethernet Address Display – Displays unique addresses of physical devices
on the network in a small window on the communications server.

Network Connector (BNC) – Connects the communications server to the
ThinWire network. Not used in DEChub 90 configurations.

Port Connectors (MJ8) – Connects the peripheral devices to the
communications server.
Power Connector – Connects the power source to the standalone
communications server. Not used in DEChub 90 configurations.
Backplane Connector – Connects the communications server power source
and network interface to the backplane in DEChub 90 configurations.
Back Cover – Shields the backplane connector and mounting assembly when
not used in a DEChub 90 configuration.
Reset Switch – Resets the communications server to the factory default
characteristics.

Overview 1–3

Overview

Description
The DECserver 90TL Ethernet communications server is a multisession
communications server designed to operate in multivendor environments.
The communications server can be configured as a standalone device or as a
module in the DEChub 90 Ethernet backplane.
The DEChub™ 90 is a multifunction Ethernet backplane that provides mounting,
power, and connections for up to eight Workgroup LAN products.
The communications server downline loads software using MOP or BOOTP
protocols.
The communications server is attached to a ThinWire Ethernet network and up
to eight asynchronous devices. The communications server allows any attached
asynchronous device to establish sessions with services offered either on the
network or on other attached devices. The communications server also enables
network hosts to establish sessions with devices attached to the communications
server. The communications server allows sessions to be established using either
LAT or Telnet protocols.
Communications server management functions are enabled and monitored
through a host system using a remote console facility, Simple Network
Management Protocol (SNMP) or a terminal connected to the communications
server.
Figure 1–2 shows communications server configuration in a ThinWire Ethernet
Local Area Network (LAN).

1–4 Overview

Overview

Figure 1–2 DECserver 90TL Connection
TD/SMP
Terminal

Personal
Computer

Terminal

Personal
Computer

Terminal

Printer

Terminal

DECserver 90TL
Ethernet Communications Server
ThinWire

VMS Host

UNIX Host

ULTRIX Host

Ethernet

IP Router/Gateway

DECnet Router
LJ-01615-TI0

Overview 1–5

2
Installation
The communications server can be installed as a standalone device - on a tabletop
or mounted to a wall - or added to the DEChub 90 Ethernet backplane.
Before beginning the hardware installation ensure that the software has been
properly installed on a load host. Refer to the appropriate DECserver 90TL
software installation documentation.
Once the communications server software has been properly installed on a load
host, complete the installation by performing the following tasks:
•

Install the communications server hardware

•

Run the communications server self-tests

•

Load the communications server software

•

Verify operation of the communication server ports

Installation 2–1

Installation

Tabletop Installation
To install the communications server (standalone) as a tabletop device, follow the
steps below.
1. Connect a ThinWire cable, T-connector, and terminator to the BNC connector
on the communications server as shown in Figure 2-1. Connect the other
end of the ThinWire cable to an active ThinWire outlet such as a faceplate or
other appropriate network device.
2. Optionally, attach a device configured to the settings listed in Table 2–2
to the console port (default is port 1) using a cable terminated with an
MJ8-compatible (RJ45) plug.
3. Plug the DC power connector into the power inlet on the communications
server.
4. Plug the communications server power supply cord into an AC wall outlet and
verify that the power LED on the communications server lights.
5. Refer to ‘‘Running Self-Tests’’ in this chapter, and verify that the
communications server has successfully run all of the self-tests.
Note
An illustration of the communications server hardware and descriptions of
the LED indicators are provided in the ‘‘Overview’’ section of this manual.

Figure 2–1 shows the communications server installed as a standalone device.

2–2 Installation

Installation

Figure 2–1 Standalone Configuration
T-Connector

50 Ohm
Terminator

PJ ,D 120
SC ALE 46% 85%
International
Power Supply
1
2
3
4
5
6
7

North American
Power Supply

Reset Switch

T er m i nal

LJ-01568-TI0

Installation 2–3

Installation

Wallmount Installation
To mount the communications server on a wall, follow the steps below.
1. Remove the back cover (refer to Figure 2–2).
a. Insert a small screwdriver into the top mounting hole of the cover.
b. Lift up the latch on the unit’s back cover.
c.

Pull the top of the cover away from the unit and down to remove it.

2. Use the back cover as a template and position each of the (#8 1-inch)
mounting screws (not supplied).
3. Secure the mounting screws.
4. Replace the back cover on the unit.
5. Connect a ThinWire cable, T-connector, and terminator to the BNC connector
on the communications server as shown in Figure 2-1. Connect the other
end of the ThinWire cable to an active ThinWire outlet such as a faceplate or
other appropriate network device.
6. Plug the DC power connector into the power inlet on the communications
server.
7. Mount the unit to the wall.
8. Optionally, you can attach a device configured to the settings listed in
Table 2–2 to the console port (default is port 1) using a cable terminated with
an MJ8-compatible (RJ45) plug.
9. Plug the power supply into an AC wall outlet to apply power.
10. Verify that the power LED is lit and that the communications server is
running the self-test.
11. Refer to the ‘‘Running Self-Tests’’ section of this chapter.
Figure 2–2 shows how to remove the back cover.

2–4 Installation

Installation

Figure 2–2 Removing the Back Cover

LJ-00320-TI0

Installation 2–5

Installation

Backplane Installation
To install the communications server in the DEChub 90 Ethernet backplane,
follow the steps below.
1. Remove the back cover (refer to Figure 2–2).
2. Place the lower mounting tab, located on the back of the communications
server, in the appropriate mounting slot on the backplane (refer to
Figure 2–3).
3. Rock the unit into place. An audible click is heard when the device is securely
latched in place.
4. Make sure the power unit is secured in the backplane.
5. Secure a ThinWire connection or terminator on the backplane BNC connector.
6. Verify that the power LED is lit and that the communications server is
running the self-tests.
7. Optionally, you can add a terminal to the console port (default is port 1)
by attaching a cable terminated with an MJ8-compatible (RJ45) plug and
configuring the console terminal port settings as listed in Table 2–2.
8. Refer to the ‘‘Running Self-Tests’’ section of this chapter.
Note
You can install or replace (hot-swap) the communications server while the
backplane is powered-up and connected to the network.

Figure 2–3 shows the communication server backplane installation.

2–6 Installation

Installation

Figure 2–3 Backplane Installation

1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8

LJ-01519-TI0

Installation 2–7

Installation

Running Self-Tests
The communications server runs a series of self-tests on powerup and reports test
status through the communications server LEDs. Refer to Figure 1-1.
Ensure that the ThinWire network connection to the BNC connector, or to the
DEChub 90, is properly terminated, or connected to an active network. Failure to
do this will cause the self-test to fail the network loopback test.
The following list describes the behavior of the LEDs during self-test.
•

Initially, all LEDs light briefly, then extinguish, leaving only the power LED
lit.

•

The Port Activity LEDs light one by one and remain lit, as the
communications server completes each segment of self-test. All eight
LEDs are lit once the tests have run successfully.

•

After successful completion of the self-tests, the Self-Test OK LED is lit, and
the eight port LEDs are extinguished.

To reset the communications server to the factory-default settings, press the
Reset switch after the Port 7 LED lights, but before the Port 4 LED lights during
self-test. Keep the reset switch depressed until the Network OK and Self-Test OK
LEDs flash rapidly. This indicates that the communications server has been reset
to factory settings.
Note
If a self-test pattern halts, an error condition has been detected. Refer to
the chapter on ‘‘Troubleshooting’’ in this manual.

2–8 Installation

Installation

Loading Server Software
Once the self-tests have completed, the communications server automatically
begins the boot sequence to load the software. Software is downline loaded to the
communications server from a VMS, ULTRIX, or MS–DOS™ load host using the
MOP or BOOTP protocol.
If a device is attached to the console port, status messages can be displayed while
the boot sequence is running. Status messages indicate the Ethernet address of
the communications server, the name of the load image it is looking for, and the
stage of the boot process it is in.
During the boot sequence the communications server searches for a load host.
The communications server tries both MOP and BOOTP protocols in a factorydefined order. Once the communications server finds a load host, it records the
protocol and load host in its permanent database. Once a load host is found,
status messages indicate the address of the load host and the protocol used.
If a valid load host cannot be found, the communications server remains in the
boot sequence indefinitely, while continually searching for a load host. If this
occurs, it may be indicating that the communications server software has not
been properly installed on a load host. The boot sequence includes a wait period
after each pass through all the boot protocols.
Upon startup of the boot process, the Network OK LED blinks continuously
and the System OK LED remains lit indicating that communications server is
attempting to load the software. Port Activity LEDs six, seven, or eight light to
indicate which protocol is being tried by the communications server to downline
load the software. Port activity LED five lights to indicate that all attempts to
find a load host have failed and that the communications server will remain in a
wait state for a designated period of time before trying again (refer to Table 2–1).

Installation 2–9

Installation

Table 2–1 LOAD and DUMP Protocols
Port LED

Meaning

Waiting to retry

Ethernet BOOTP load or dump

ISO 8802/3 MOP load or dump

Ethernet MOP load or dump

For detailed information on installing communications server software, refer to
the appropriate DECserver 90TL software installation documentation.
The following settings represent default characteristics of the console port.
Table 2–2 Default Console Port Terminal Characteristics
Characteristic

Setting

Transmit speed

9600 baud

Receive speed

Receive = Transmit

Flow control

XON/XOFF

Data and parity

8 Bits, No Parity

Stop bits

Verifying Ports
To verify operation of each port, follow the steps below.
1. Connect a terminal to the port to be tested.
2. Press the Return key two or three times to set the (autobaud) operating speed
of the port.
3. Type a character on the terminal and observe each Port Activity LED for
a reaction. The Port Activity LED should turn on, indicating that the
corresponding port is in use. Additional characters should then cause the
LED to blink.

2–10 Installation

3
Management
This chapter describes the following steps to help you configure and manage the
DECserver 90TL Ethernet communications server:
•

Planning for unit setup.

•

Configuring the unit for use in your network.

•

Setting port characteristics.

•

Connecting interactive devices to the unit.

•

Connecting noninteractive devices to the unit.

•

Offering services to the network (LAT or TCP/IP).

•

Configuring ports for SLIP access by IP hosts.

•

Establishing security.

•

Using management tools.

•

Using the databases.

To perform these steps, full system privileges are required. Refer to "Configuring
and Maintaining a Communications Server on a Network" in Ethernet
Communications Server Management for details on system privileges.
For a complete list of all factory default settings, refer to "Tasks and Concepts" in
Ethernet Communications Server Management.

Management 3–1

Management

Setup Planning
Before you begin configuring the communications server, you should determine
the type of network in which you plan to use the communications server; the
types of devices you plan to attach to the communications server such as printers,
PCs, terminals, and computers; how you plan to use these devices (as private
resources or public network-wide resources); and the ports you plan to assign to
each device (one through eight).
Specifically, you should consider the following:
1. Determine if you are using your server to access LAT, TCP/IP, or both.
The communications server is preconfigured for LAT access, and no
configuration is required on your part. If you are also accessing TCP/IP,
additional configuration is required as described later in this chapter.
2. Determine the printers, terminals, PCs, and computers you plan to attach to
the communications server, and decide which devices you want to be used as
network resources.
3. Determine if you want to include name servers, gateways, or both in your
network. If you include them, they require configuration as described later in
this chapter.
4. Determine the type of security features you want to implement. The
communications server lets you restrict access to specific server features,
dedicate ports to specific network services, set inactivity timeout features,
and specify other security considerations. Setting specific security features is
described later in this chapter.
A complete list of all configuration and management tasks are listed in "Tasks
and Concepts" in Ethernet Communications Server Management.

3–2 Management

Management

Connecting the Communications Server to Your Network
You can use the communications server in a LAT network, in a TCP/IP network,
or in a network that includes both protocols.
To issue commands to the communications server, connect a terminal into port
one of the communications server; it is preconfigured to be the console port. Press
Return two or three times and the communications server responds by displaying
a prompt on the terminal. It is convenient to use this terminal to perform all
subsequent configuration described in this chapter.
Management tasks described in this chapter require the user to be in privileged
mode. To enter privileged mode type:
Local> SET PRIVILEGED
Respond with the privileged password. The factory default value for the
privileged password is SYSTEM.

LAT Network
If you are using the communications server in a DECnet network using the
LAT protocol, no configuration is required. The communications server is
preconfigured to use the LAT protocol. You can, however, customize various
communications ports characteristics such as the following:
•

Change the authorized LAT group codes

•

Change the communications server name

•

Change the communications server number

•

Change the identification string

•

Set the circuit timer to optimize system performance

•

Set the keepalive timer and retransmit limit to optimize system performance

For details, refer to "Configuring and Maintaining a Communications Server on a
Network" in Ethernet Communications Server Management.

Management 3–3

Management

TCP/IP Network
If you are using the communications server in a TCP/IP network, perform the
following steps:
1. The communications server provides a default subnet mask, based on the
class of internet addresses used. The default for class A is 255.0.0.0, the
default for class B is 255.255.0.0, and the default for class C is 255.255.255.0.
If you do not want to use the default, change it using the following command:
Local> CHANGE INTERNET SUBNET MASK nnn.nnn.nnn.nnn
2. Change the internet address of the communications server using the following
command:
Local> CHANGE INTERNET ADDRESS nnn.nnn.nnn.nnn
Optionally you can perform the following:
•

Add a database with names of internet gateway addresses

•

Set the default domain of the communications server

•

Add a database with names of internet name servers

•

Add a database of commonly used internet hosts

For details, refer to "Configuring and Maintaining a Communications Server on a
Network" in Ethernet Communications Server Management.

3–4 Management

Management

Server Management Options
Optionally, you can perform the following:
•

Specify the MOP maintenance password

•

Identify the console port

•

Specify the software image file name

•

Enable software dumps

•

Set up event logging at a DECnet system

For a detailed description of these topics, refer to "Configuring and Maintaining
a Communications Server on a Network" in Ethernet Communications Server
Management.

Management 3–5

Management

Setting Port Characteristics
You can set up devices on the communications server for local access,
remote access, or both local access and remote access depending on the port
characteristics you set. Local access is used for interactive devices such as
terminals; remote access is used for noninteractive devices such as printers and
computers.
There are several port characteristics you might want to consider before you begin
connecting devices to the communications server ports. These port characteristics
include:
•

Port access

•

Matching port and device characteristics

•

Flow control

•

Automatic logout

•

Inactivity timers

•

Additional port customization settings

To display the particular characteristics of a port, issue the following command:
Local> SHOW PORT port_number
For complete details on setting port characteristics, refer to "Configuring Devices
on a Port" in Ethernet Communications Server Management.

3–6 Management

Management

Setting Port Access
Set access to a port to one of the following:
•

LOCAL (default) - for interactive devices, such as terminals.

•

REMOTE - for noninteractive devices, such as computers and printers.

•

DYNAMIC - for devices that can be used in interactive and noninteractive
mode, such as personal computers (PCs) and printers with keyboards.

•

NONE - to prohibit access to the port.

The following shows how to set ACCESS to REMOTE for port 5:
Local> DEFINE PORT 5 ACCESS REMOTE
Local> LOGOUT PORT 5

Matching Port and Device Characteristics
You must ensure that the physical characteristics of the communications server
port match the physical characteristics of the device you intend to attach to the
port. Refer to the device specific documentation for information on matching
device port characteristics.
Some of the most common physical characteristics include the following:
•

AUTOBAUD
Normally, you enable AUTOBAUD when configuring interactive devices and
disable AUTOBAUD when configuring network resources, such as printers,
modems, and computers. When AUTOBAUD is disabled, you should specify
the settings for CHARACTER SIZE, PARITY, and SPEED characteristics.
The following shows how to disable AUTOBAUD on port 5:
Local> CHANGE PORT 5 AUTOBAUD DISABLED
The AUTOBAUD characteristic functions only if the input and output speeds
of the port device are the same and the device characteristics are one of the
following:
CHARACTER SIZE 8 and PARITY NONE
CHARACTER SIZE 7 and PARITY EVEN

•

CHARACTER SIZE
Specify the device character size: 7 or 8 bits. Use CHARACTER SIZE 7 if
the device supports 7-bit operation only. (Use the operator’s guide for the port
device to determine character size.) If you have AUTOBAUD enabled, the
communications server automatically adjusts the character size.

Management 3–7

Management

The following shows how to set CHARACTER SIZE to 7 for port 5:
Local> CHANGE PORT 5 CHARACTER SIZE 7
The communications server software automatically formats the characters
for transmission from the communications server to an internet host or LAT
service.
•

PARITY
Determine the device parity:
EVEN: The communications server checks for an even number of bits per
character.
ODD: The communications server checks for an odd number of bits per
character.
MARK: The communications server checks for a set parity bit per
character.
SPACE: The communications server checks for a cleared parity bit per
character.
NONE: The communications server does no checking. Use this if parity is
not supported on the port device.
If you enable AUTOBAUD, the communications server automatically adjusts
the parity. The following example shows how to change the parity to ODD on
port 5:
Local> CHANGE PORT 5 PARITY ODD

•

SPEED
Determine the device speed: 75, 110, 150, 300, 600, 1200, 1800, 2000, 2400,
4800, 9600, 19200, 38400, or 57600 bits per second (bps). The communications
server automatically adjusts the port speed if you enable AUTOBAUD. The
following example shows how to change the port speed to 2400 on port 5:
Local> CHANGE PORT 5 SPEED 2400
You can also use the optional keywords INPUT and OUTPUT to set up splitspeed operations. For more information on the SET/DEFINE/CHANGE PORT
SPEED command, refer to Ethernet Communications Server Commands.

•

STOP BITS
Determine the number of stop bits used by the device type: 1 or 2. You can
use STOP BITS DYNAMIC to have the communications server automatically
use 2 stop bits for port speeds up to and including 110 bps, and 1 stop bit for
port speeds above 110 bps.

3–8 Management

Management

The following example shows how to change the STOP BITS to DYNAMIC on
port 5:
Local> CHANGE PORT 5 STOP BITS DYNAMIC
•

TYPE
Determine the device type: HARDCOPY (for hardcopy devices), ANSI
(for ANSI standard video terminals), or SOFTCOPY (for non-ANSI video
terminals). The TYPE characteristic is not used when the port has the
ACCESS characteristic set to REMOTE. ANSI is the default and is necessary
for command line recall and edit.
The following example shows how to change the TYPE to HARDCOPY on
port 5:
Local> CHANGE PORT 5 TYPE HARDCOPY
Note
In order to make new port characteristics take effect, you must logout the
port after changing the characteristics. The Privileged mode allows you to
do this from another device port on the communications server.

Management 3–9

Management

Setting Flow Control
The FLOW CONTROL characteristic allows the communications server to start
and stop data transfer between the port and the attached device. Using flow
control ensures that no data is lost due to lack of buffering space. It does not
apply to data between the communications server and a network resource.
You can also set flow control direction. For a particular session, the network
resource might manage flow control between the port and the host.
The communications server can use the transmission-on (XON) and transmissionoff (XOFF) control characters, data-set-ready (DSR) and data-terminal-ready
(DTR) control signals, or no flow control at all. The following describes each type:
•

XON and XOFF—This is the factory-set default. It is a form of in-band flow
control since the XON and XOFF characters are transmitted as TxD and RxD
data. XON/XOFF flow control is the type of flow control used with Digital
Equipment Corporation terminals, personal computers, printers, and
XON/XOFF flow control should be used when DSRLOGOUT, SIGNAL
CONTROL or SIGNAL CHECK is enabled. The following example shows how
to set XON/XOFF flow control on port 5:
Local> CHANGE PORT 5 FLOW CONTROL XON

•

DSR and DTR—This is a form of out-of-band flow control used with
communication devices and printers. With DSR flow control, the
communications server transmits data only when it detects DSR. If the
communications server is receiving data too quickly from the port device, it
turns off the DTR signal until it is able to accept more data. Similarly, if the
device is receiving data too quickly from the communications server, it turns
off the DSR signal until it is able to accept more data.
Do not enable DSR flow control if DSRLOGOUT, SIGNAL CONTROL or
SIGNAL CHECK is ENABLED. The following example shows how to set up
DSR flow control on port 5:
Local> CHANGE PORT 5 FLOW CONTROL DSR

3–10 Management

Management

Setting Automatic Logout Characteristics
You can use various characteristics to automatically log out the port when
the device attached to the port is powered off or when there is no activity for
a specified period of time. The automatic logout characteristics include the
following:
•

DSRLOGOUT

•

LONGBREAK LOGOUT

•

INACTIVITY LOGOUT

•

INACTIVITY TIMER

The default is DISABLED for DSRLOGOUT, LONGBREAK LOGOUT, and
INACTIVITY LOGOUT. The default INACTIVITY TIMER is 30 minutes.
In the following example, INACTIVITY LOGOUT is enabled for port 5.
Local> CHANGE PORT 5 INACTIVITY LOGOUT ENABLED

Management 3–11

Management

Additional Port Customization Settings
You can use the following commands to customize ports:
•

AUTOCONNECT—Issue this command when a communications server is
unable to locate a particular LAT service. If a previous session has been
interrupted, the communications server automatically attempts to reestablish
it. The factory default for this feature is DISABLED.

•

BREAK—Defines the use of the Break key. Normally Break is set to LOCAL,
and is used to interrupt a network session and return to the Local prompt.
However, some applications and PCs may require use of the Break key for
other purposes. This function key can be set to NONE or REMOTE, as
needed. In either case, you should define a local switch character.

•

DEFAULT PROTOCOL—Defines the default protocol for the CONNECT
command. The factory default is LAT, but you can change it to TELNET,
SLIP, or ANY. When the connect command is issued, you can overide
the default protocol by specifying the protocol to be used. For example,
CONNECT LAT will always cause the communications server to establish a
service connection using the LAT protocol.

•

FORWARD SWITCH and BACKWARD SWITCH - Defines character
sequences that can be used to automatically switch from one session to
another without going through LOCAL mode.

•

INACTIVITY LOGOUT—If enabled, allows the communications server to
automatically log out of a port that has been inactive for more than the
designated period of time. The timeout period is set with the CHANGE
SERVER INACTIVITY TIMER command.

•

LOCAL SWITCH—Defines a character which can be used in addition to or
instead of the Break key to interrupt a session with a network service and
return to the Local prompt.

•

PREFERRED SERVICE—Defines a session which can be established by
issuing the C[ONNECT] command with no additional parameters needed.

3–12 Management

Management

Connecting Interactive Devices
Interactive devices allow users to directly access the network. Interactive devices
are typically terminals, but can be PCs and computers. The communications
server is preconfigured to operate with most standard terminals, PCs, or
computers. To use a terminal, PC, or computer as an interactive device to access
the network, simply connect it into a port on the communications server.
You can configure interactive devices for both LAT and Telnet sessions.
Optionally, you can specify the following for the ports used for LAT and Telnet
sessions:
•

LAT group codes (LAT only)

•

Autoconnect (LAT only)

•

Autoprompt (LAT only)

•

A default protocol

•

Failover (LAT only)

•

Port queuing (LAT only)

•

A session management (TD/SMP) terminal

•

On-demand loading for Asian terminals (LAT only)

•

Telnet client session profile (Telnet only)

•

Individual Telnet client session characteristics (Telnet only)

•

Security features

•

Management functions

For details, refer to "Configuring and Managing Interactive Devices" in Ethernet
Communications Server Management.

Management 3–13

Management

Using an Interactive Device as a Network Service
To offer the services of a PC or computer configured as an interactive device to
the network, issue the following command:
Local> CHANGE PORT port_number ACCESS DYNAMIC
Setting port access to DYNAMIC, allows you to toggle the device between a local
interactive service and a network service.
Once you have specified the port access as DYNAMIC, to offer the port service to
the network, follow the instructions in "Offering Services to the Network" later in
this chapter.

3–14 Management

Management

Connecting Noninteractive Devices
Noninteractive devices are usually network resources. They include printers, but
they can also include PCs and computers if you want to use them as network-wide
resources.
To configure a noninteractive device, specify the following communications server
port characteristics for it:
1. Set the access feature of the communications server port to REMOTE to allow
remote access to the device you are connecting as follows:
Local> CHANGE PORT port_number ACCESS REMOTE
2. Disable the BREAK function of the communications server port as follows:
Local> CHANGE PORT port_number BREAK DISABLED
3. Disable the AUTOBAUD feature as follows:
Local> CHANGE PORT port_number AUTOBAUD DISABLED
4. Set the CHARACTER_SIZE, PARITY, BAUD RATE, and STOP BITS to
match those of the device you are connecting. Refer to the device specific
documentation to set these characteristics.
Local> CHANGE PORT port_number CHARACTER SIZE {7|8}
Local> CHANGE PORT port_number PARITY {EVEN|ODD|MARK|SPACE|NONE}
Local> CHANGE PORT port_number BAUD RATE n
Local> CHANGE PORT port_number STOP BITS {1|2)
5. For printers that provide a DTR signal, enable the SIGNAL CHECK feature
on the communications server. This allows the communications server to
verify that the attached printer is ready to receive data, before the user
attaches to it. If SIGNAL CHECK is not enabled, all data sent to the printer
before the printer is in the ready state, is lost (this is mutually exclusive with
DSR flow control).
To enable SIGNAL CHECK, perform the following:
Local> CHANGE PORT port_number SIGNAL CHECK ENABLED

Management 3–15

Management

6. For noninteractive communications devices, PCs and computers, enable the
SIGNAL CONTROL and DTRWAIT features on the communications server.
You can enable DTRWAIT only if you enable SIGNAL CONTROL. To enable
SIGNAL CONTROL and DTRWAIT, perform the following:
Local> DEFINE PORT port_number SIGNAL CONTROL ENABLED
Local> CHANGE PORT port_number DTRWAIT ENABLED
You can also set the flow control for the port. You can set flow control to
XON/XOFF, DSR, or DISABLE. Flow control is XON/XOFF by default. This is
usually the appropriate setting for printers, although you can perform printer
flow control using DSR. Refer to Ethernet Communications Server Management
for details. Note that if you use DSR for flow control, you cannot use DSR for
other features such as automatic port logout.
For PCs and computers configured as noninteractive devices, DSR provides
additional desirable features such as automatic port logout, inactivity logout, etc.
These features, however, cannot be used if you use DSR for flow control instead of
XON/XOFF. It is recommended that you configure ports to which you connect PCs
or computers with XON/XOFF flow control. Refer to Ethernet Communications
Server Management for details on flow control.
To set XON/XOFF flow control for an interactive device, perform the following:
Local> CHANGE PORT port_number FLOW CONTROL XON
For additional information and examples on configuring interactive devices for
LAT sessions, refer to Ethernet Communications Server Management.
For additional information and examples on configuring interactive devices for
Telnet sessions, refer to "Configuring and Managing Telnet Services" in Ethernet
Communications Server Management.

3–16 Management

Management

Offering Services to the Network
Network services can include remote access to printers, PCs, or computers. You
can offer the various devices connected to the communications server as network
services to LAT hosts or to TCP/IP hosts. The configuration procedures differ for
each type of network protocol.

Offering LAT Services to the Network
To offer a resource as a LAT service, perform the following:
1. Ensure that LAT service group codes are properly defined for the
communications server using the following command:
Local> CHANGE SERVER SERVICE GROUPS group_1,...,group_n ENABLED
2. Name the service and assign one or more ports to it using the following
command:
Local> CHANGE SERVICE service-name PORT port_number
3. To advertise the service on the network, give the service an identification
string when defining the service using the following command:
Local> CHANGE SERVICE service-name PORT port_number ID
identification-name
4. For advertised services, enable announcements with the following command:
Local> CHANGE SERVER ANNOUNCEMENTS ENABLED
You can set other values depending on the device, as follows:
•

Port name instead of a LAT service name

•

LAT service password

•

Port control from a remote location

•

Remote print queues

For a complete and detailed description of how to offer various types of LAT
services to the network, refer to "Configuring and Managing LAT Services" in
Ethernet Communications Server Management.

Management 3–17

Management

Offering Services to the Network Through the Telnet Listener
Establish a Telnet Listener using the CHANGE TELNET LISTENER command,
as follows:
1. Specify the ports connected to the service, as follows:
Local> CHANGE TELNET LISTENER 2010 PORTS port-list ENABLED
2. Identify the service, as follows:
Local> CHANGE TELNET LISTENER 2010 IDENTIFICATION id-name
3. Enable the service, as follows:
Local> CHANGE TELNET LISTENER 2010 CONNECTIONS ENABLED
You can also configure various Telnet server characteristics. A complete
description of these features is located in "Configuring and Managing Telnet
Services" in Ethernet Communications Server Management.

3–18 Management

Management

Setting Up a Port for SLIP Access by an IP Host
When you configure a PC or computer as a dedicated SLIP host, you can
communicate directly with the network as an internet host making the
communications server virtually transparent.
You can configure an interactive device or a noninteractive device as a dedicated
SLIP host; the communications server, however, must be configured for use on a
TCP/IP network.
To configure a device as a dedicated SLIP host, perform the following:
1. Disable flow control for the port, with the following command:
Local> DEFINE PORT FLOW CONTROL DISABLED
2. Enable SLIP on the port with the following command:
Local> DEFINE PORT port_number SLIP ENABLED
3. Set the internet address of the device, using the following command:
Local> DEFINE PORT port_number SLIP HOST address
4. Set the packet size, if different from the default of 1006 bytes, using the
following command:
Local> DEFINE PORT port_number SLIP MTU n
To connect, issue the following command:
Local> CONNECT SLIP
You can also establish temporary SLIP sessions if you do not want to dedicate a
port solely to SLIP sessions. Refer to Chapter 4 for details.
For a complete and detailed description of configuring SLIP hosts, refer to
"Configuring and Managing SLIP Ports" in Ethernet Communications Server
Management.

Management 3–19

Management

Security for Interactive and Noninteractive Devices
You can specify the following security features for interactive devices:
•

User security levels, which can be privileged, nonprivileged, and secure.

•

Limited view, which restricts user access to features on the communications
server.

•

Dedicated service for LAT or Telnet resources, which lets you dedicate a port
to a particular network service, allowing users access only to those services in
which the port has been dedicated.

•

Password for both server login and port login.

•

Password limit, which restricts the number of times a user can incorrectly
enter a password.

For noninteractive devices, you can specify only a password for both server login
and port login.
For details on setting security features, refer to "Configuring and Managing
Interactive Devices" in Ethernet Communications Server Management.

3–20 Management

Management

Management Tools
Several management tools can be used to ease communications server
management tasks. They include the following:
•

Communications server commands

•

Online help

•

Remote console port (MOP or Telnet)

•

DSVCONFIG

•

Terminal Server Manager (TSM) software

•

Simple Network Management Protocol (SNMP) access

The above tools are described in detail under ‘‘Management Tools’’ in Ethernet
Communications Server Management.

Communications Server Commands
Many communications server commands are available to all communications
server users, not only to the person who manages the communications server.
General users issue communications server commands to connect to LAT services,
connect to an internet host, display status information, set characteristics for
their ports, and control certain port functions. You need to enable privileged
status to access all communications server commands.
To specify or change values, use the SET, DEFINE, or CHANGE commands.
These commands specify values in the operational and permanent databases.
The SET command changes values in the operational database; the DEFINE
command changes values in the permanent database; and the CHANGE
command is a combined SET and DEFINE command.

Management 3–21

Management

Online Help
The communications server provides online information about communications
server commands. The communications server offers two types of online help:
tutorial and reference.
Tutorial help provides an overview of end-user tasks. To access tutorial help,
enter the following:
Local> HELP TUTORIAL
Reference help describes the commands available for the current privilege level
of the port. To start reference help from the communications server local prompt,
enter HELP:
Local> HELP
The first screen lists command keywords available for the current privilege level
of the port. The following prompt also appears:
Topic?
When you enter a command keyword from the list, for example, SHOW or SET,
the communications server provides a brief description of the function performed
by that command and lists any associated subtopics.

3–22 Management

Management

Remote Console Port
The remote console port is a logical port used by the communications server
software when communicating using the MOP or Telnet protocol. The remote
console port has fixed port characteristics values that you cannot change. You can
enter most of the communications server commands at the remote console port.

DSVCONFIG Configuration Procedure
DSVCONFIG is the configuration procedure used on a load host to configure
the load host node database. This database includes the DECnet databases and
the communications server configuration database. It contains an entry for your
communications server. The entry provides the necessary information to downline
load software to your communications server and up-line dump memory from the
communications server.

Terminal Server Manager Software
Terminal Server Manager (TSM) is a software utility that runs on a VMS host. It
is not included with the communications server software and must be purchased
separately. TSM is a management tool that enables you to configure and manage
all communications servers on the same extended LAN.

SNMP Access
You can configure the communications server to respond to SNMP GET and
GET NEXT messages from an internet host. You can also configure the
communications server to send TRAP messages.
To configure the communications server for SNMP access, you must configure the
communications server and at least one internet host. The internet host must
be able to generate SNMP GET and GETNEXT messages, and optionally receive
TRAP messages.

Management 3–23

Management

Communications Server Databases
Two databases contain all the information the communications server requires
to operate: the operational database and the permanent database. The
communications server operational database is maintained in random-access
memory (RAM). The permanent database is stored in nonvolatile RAM (NVRAM).
When the communications server is downline loaded for the first time, these
databases contain identical factory-set default settings for all the characteristics,
except for the Telnet remote console characteristics. These characteristics
control the operation of the communications server. You can use the SHOW and
MONITOR (operational database) or LIST (permanent database) commands to
display the values stored in the databases.
To specify or change values, use the SET (operational database), DEFINE
(permanent database), or CHANGE (both databases) commands. Ethernet
Communications Server Commands describes the syntax information on
communications server commands, keywords, valid ranges of values, and
defaults.
For a complete description of the communications server databases, refer to
"Tasks and Concepts" in Ethernet Communications Server Management.

3–24 Management

4
Operation
This chapter describes communications server operation and how to establish
interactive sessions using services on the network. Information covered in this
chapter, can be referenced through the HELP TUTORIAL.
Basic operational tasks include:
•

Getting started

•

Using online help

•

Establishing sessions (LAT, Telnet, and SLIP)

•

Managing sessions

•

Performing file transfers

Operation 4–1

Operation

Getting Started
Once the communications server has successfully loaded software, you can attach
a conventional terminal or PC. Use the following procedure to establish terminal
or PC communications with the server:
1. Press Return once or twice. The following prompt appears:
Enter Username>
2. Enter a username and press Return, or simply press Ctrl/Z if the default
name of the port is acceptable. The Local prompt appears, indicating that the
communications server is accepting commands directly.

Using Online Help
The communications server provides users with an extensive online help facility.
To view Help menu options, type HELP at the local> prompt. Some variations to
the HELP command are as follows:
•

HELP command—Provides information about a particular command.

•

HELP TUTORIAL—Provides a list of topics for which more information is
available.

•

HELP command_keyword—Provides information about a specific command
keyword.

4–2 Operation

Operation

Establishing Sessions
You can establish sessions for either LAT or Telnet.

Establishing LAT Sessions
Use the CONNECT command to establish LAT service sessions. Prior to creating
a LAT session, ensure that the LAT group codes are properly set, as described in
Chapter 3.
•

C[ONNECT] service_name - Initiates a LAT service connection, unless the
DEFAULT PROTOCOL feature has been customized. In this case, use the
following command:
Local> CONNECT LAT service

•

If the communications server reports a LAT service as unknown during an
attempt to connect to it, issue the command SET PORT AUTOCONNECT
ENABLED and retry the CONNECT service command. Press the Break key
to exit autoconnect mode.

Establishing Telnet Sessions
You can use the following commands to establish a session with an internet host
once the internet parameters have been set.
•

O[PEN] name_or_address - Initiates an internet host connection. You can
supply the internet address or name.

•

TEL[NET] name_or_address - Same as OPEN.

•

C[ONNECT] name_or_address - Initiates a LAT service connection, unless the
DEFAULT PROTOCOL feature has been customized. In this case, use the
following command:
Local> CONNECT LAT service

Operation 4–3

Operation

Establishing a Temporary SLIP Session
The communications server supports PCs running SLIP software. The PC sends
IP messages to the communications server as Serial Line Internet Protocol (SLIP)
packets. The communications server packages the messages as regular IP packets
and transmits them over the Ethernet/802.3 network. The packets can also be
forwarded to another SLIP device on the communications server.
When SLIP support is enabled, the device being supported must be assigned an
internet address, as a logical part of a TCP/IP Network.
Before you establish a temporary SLIP session, enable the SLIP feature using the
following privileged command:
Local> SET PORT SLIP ENABLED
Once SLIP is enabled, perform the following procedure:
1. Assign an internet address to the port.
2. Disable flow control to the port using the SET PORT FLOW CONTROL
DISABLED command.
3. Set the SLIP packet size to be compatible with what is being supported by
the SLIP application on the device (default—1006 bytes, range—64 to 1006
bytes). To change the packet size from its default setting, use the CHANGE
PORT SLIP MTU command.
4. Issue the C[ONNECT] SLIP command.
You can interrupt a temporary SLIP session at any time by pressing Break when
the BREAK PORT feature is set to LOCAL.
Note
If an internet address on the communications server is the same as an
existing address, you may experience network disruption.

4–4 Operation

Operation

Managing Sessions
To interrupt a service session and return to the Local prompt, press the Break
key. Another session can be established with the same host or with a different
host. You can establish up to four sessions simultaneously.
Additional commands that can be issued at the Local prompt include:
•

SHOW SESS[IONS]—Lists all active sessions.

•

RES[UME] SESS[ION] n—Resumes a particular session.

•

DIS[CONNECT] SESS[ION] n—Ends a particular session.

Using TD/SMP Support
The communications server supports the TD/SMP protocol. Devices that use this
protocol can run several sessions concurrently on the same screen. To switch
sessions, move the cursor from one window session to another. To enable TD/SMP
protocol support for a port, use the following command:
Local> SET PORT MULTISESSIONS ENABLED

Asian Terminal Support
The communications server supports Asian terminals that use On-Demand
Loading of characters and fonts. To use this feature, issue the command:
Local>SET PORT ODL ENABLED.
This feature is available on a LAT network only.

Operation 4–5

Operation

Performing File Transfers
The communications server supports file transfer using either LAT or Telnet
protocols.
The following procedure enables you to perform file transfers using the LAT
protocol:
1. Ensure that Break is set to LOCAL. Use the SHOW PORT command to
determine this. Use the SET PORT BREAK LOCAL command to set Break
to LOCAL, if needed. Note that the LOCAL setting is the factory default.
2. CONNECT to the file transfer partner.
3. Press Break.
4. For binary files, issue the command SET SESSION PASSALL.
5. For ASCII files, issue the command SET SESSION PASSTHRU to enable
in-band flow control (XON/XOFF) during the file transfer.
6. Run the file transfer program.
7. Press Break when the file transfer is finished.
8. Use the command SET SESSION INTERACTIVE to enable terminal
emulation.
Note
In-band flow control (XON/XOFF) cannot be used with binary files.

4–6 Operation

Operation

Use the following procedure for file transfers using the Telnet protocol:
1. Ensure that Break is set to LOCAL. Use the SHOW PORT command to
determine this. Use the SET PORT BREAK LOCAL command to set Break
to LOCAL, if needed. The LOCAL setting is the factory default.
2. CONNECT to the file transfer partner.
3. Press Break.
4. Issue the command SET SESSION Telnet CLIENT PROFILE BINARY. Note
that in-band flow control (XON/XOFF) is disabled during file transfers using
Telnet.
5. Run the file transfer program.
6. When the file transfer is finished, press Break.
7. Use the command SET SESSION Telnet CLIENT PROFILE CHARACTER to
enable terminal emulation.

Operation 4–7

5
Troubleshooting
This chapter provides methods of troubleshooting the DECserver 90TL Ethernet
communications server. Also provided in the chapter are symptom and solution
information tables for use when isolating communications server hardware,
software or network problems.
Before servicing the communications server you should:
1. Verify that the communications server is properly installed.
2. Note the fault condition.
3. Isolate the problem.
Use Table 5–1 to find the probable cause and suggested solution for a
communications server hardware, software, or network problem.
When troubleshooting self-test or boot problems, you can connect a console
terminal to any port on the communications server, (port one is the default) to
view any error messages that may appear.
Note
Refer to Ethernet Communications Server Problem Solving for descriptions
of error messages and tips on troubleshooting communications server
problems.

Troubleshooting 5–1

Troubleshooting

Table 5–1 DECserver 90TL Troubleshooting
If...

Then...

Do this...

The self-test fails, and
network LED does not
light.

The ThinWire Ethernet
port is not connected to
a properly terminated
network.

Terminate the network correctly.

A fatal hardware error
has ocurred.

Replace the communications server.

The port activity LEDs
do not respond when
characters are typed on
the console keyboard.

Interface cable may be
disconnected or faulty.

Secure or replace the cable.

The port does not
respond to the console
terminal.

The port may be faulty.

Verify the console on a known good
port.

Port and terminal
parameters may be
set incorrectly.

Correctly set the parameters from
another port as follows:
Set ACCESS to Local, AUTOBAUD
to ENABLED, and SIGNAL
CHECK, SIGNAL CONTROL,
and DSRLOGOUT to DISABLED.

The communications
server power LED does
not light.

The network LED is not
lit.

The power cord has
disconnected from the
outlet.

Connect the power cord.

The communications
server is not receiving
+5VDC.

Check power supply connection.

Reseat the power supply,
backplane installation
only.

Replace the power supply.

The LED is bad.

Replace the communications server.

The network is down.

Determine the network status.

Check network
connectivity.

Run MOP loopback or MOP console
carrier session tests.

The Ethernet connection
may be disconnected.

Reconnect the Ethernet cable.
(continued on next page)

5–2 Troubleshooting

Troubleshooting

Table 5–1 (Cont.) DECserver 90TL Troubleshooting
If...

Then...

Do this...

The communications
port may not be
terminated.

Terminate the T-connector on the
communications port.

The 50 ohm terminator(s) to the T-connector
may have disconnected.

Reconnect the terminator(s).

There is no response at
the Local prompt.

Terminal connection to
the console port may be
broken.

Secure the console terminal cable
to the console port

The communications
server cannot connect to
a service on the network
via LAT.

The service is not
available.

Verify service availability.

LAT software is not
installed on the host
system.

Install LAT Version 5.0 or higher
on the host system.

The hostname is not in
the local database.

Set PORT AUTOCONNECT
ENABLED.

Group Codes not
Enabled.

Enable group codes, SET PORT
AUTHORIZED and SET PORT
GROUPS.

Host not on local area
network.

Use Telnet or reconfigure network.

The communications
server cannot connect to
a host on the network
via Telnet.

Internet and Telnet
parameters not set or
set incorrectly.

Correctly set the parameters
using CHANGE INTERNET
and CHANGE TELNET CLIENT
commands.

Printer does not print or
prints incorrectly.

Printer port and baud
rate do not match.

Reset printer and port baud rates
to match.

The printer port LED
does not light.

The printer is
disconnected.

Connect the printer.

The printer is not
acknowledged by the
printer port.

The port may be set
incorrectly.

Match the port and printer settings
from another port.

Check printer port
access.

Ensure ACCESS is REMOTE.
(continued on next page)

Troubleshooting 5–3

Troubleshooting

Table 5–1 (Cont.) DECserver 90TL Troubleshooting
If...

Then...

Do this...
Ensure, BREAK and AUTOBAUD
are DISABLED.
Ensure CHARACTER SIZE,
PARITY SPEED, STOP BITS
and TYPE match printer.

Flow control is not set.

Set the flow control.

The power LED is lit,
the self-test OK LED
is lit, and the network
LED is blinking.

The communications
server cannot find the
load image.

Ensure LOADING is enabled on
the host. Reinstall the software to
replace the load image.

The port activity LED
does not blink when port
traffic is present.

Port characteristics may
be set incorrectly.

Verify settings using the SHOW
PORT n command.

5–4 Troubleshooting

A
Specifications
Specifications for the DECserver 90TL Ethernet communications server are
divided into the following categories:
•

Physical specifications

•

Environmental specifications

•

Power specifications

•

Communications server connector pin out

•

Cable connector pin out

•

LAT specifications

Physical Specifications
Table A–1 Physical Dimensions
Dimension

Value

Height

3.18 cm (1.25 in)

Width

27.31 cm (10.75 in)

Depth

12.70 cm (5.0 in)

Weight

.77 kg (1.7 lb)

Specifications A–1

Appendix A

Environmental Specifications
The communications server is designed to operate in an office environment or in
equipment room environments such as telephone closets or satellite equipment
rooms. The communications server operating and shipping environments are
described in the following tables:
Table A–2 Operating Environment
Item

Value

Temperature

5° C to 50° C (41° F to 122° F)

Maximum rate of change

20° C/hr (36° F/hr)

Relative humidity

10 % to 95 % (non-condensing)

Wet-bulb temperature

32° C (90° F) maximum

Dew point

2° C (36° F) minimum

Altitude

Sea level to 2.4 km (8000 ft)

Air flow

Convectively cooled. A minimum of 10 cm (4 in) of
space must be provided on both ends of the unit for
adequate air flow.

Table A–3 Shipping Environment
Item

Value

Temperature

-40° C to 66° C (-40° F to 151°F)

Relative humidity

10 % to 95 % (non-condensing)

Altitude

Sea level to 4.9 km (16000 ft)

A–2 Specifications

Appendix A

Power Specifications
The following describes the communications server power specifications.

Power Supply
Item

Value

Voltage (North American)

104 Vac to 128 Vac (nominal 120 Vac)

Voltage (International)

208 Vac to 256 Vac (nominal 240 Vac)

Current at 120 volts

.25 amps

Current at 240 volts

.125 amps

Frequency

50 Hz to 60 Hz

Power consumption

16 watts

Output voltage

5.1 Vdc

Output current

1.8 A

Communications Server
Item

Value

Input voltage

4.75 to 5.25 Vdc

Input current

1.2 A

Specifications A–3

Appendix A

Communications Server Connector Pin Out
Pin out for the communications server has been designed for compatibility with
Open DECconnect™.
Figure A–1 shows the circuit connections for each port.
Figure A–1 Port Circuit

EIA
423
Recv’r

MJ8

EIA
423
Driver

NC
EIA
423
Driver
EIA
423
Recv’r

Rcv Gnd

Rcv

Tx Gnd

CTS

RTS

DTR

DSR

LJ-01618-TI0

A–4 Specifications

Appendix A

Cable Connector Pin Out
This section provides wiring diagrams for the following serial communication
cable connectors:
Item

Description

BN25G

8MP-to-8MP (modular plug) Equipment Cable

BN24H

8MP-to-6MMP (modified modular plug) Office Cable

The BN25G is a twisted-pair (four twisted pairs) cable with standard 8-pin
modular plugs. Figure A–2 shows the wiring configuration for the BN25G
cable. This is the standard cable used to connect an asynchronous port on the
communications server to an open DECconnect wall plate.
Figure A–2 BN25G Equipment Cable Wiring Diagram

Server

RXD GND
RXD
TXD GND

TXD
DTR
DSR

Wallplate

1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8

8-pin
Modular
Plug

RXD GND
RXD
TXD GND

TXD
DTR
DSR

LJ-01565-TI0

Specifications A–5

Appendix A

The BN24H is a twisted-pair (three twisted pairs) cable with a standard
8-pin modular plug on one end and a 6-pin modified modular plug on the other
end. This cable is used to connect the communications server to an MMJ
connector on an asynchronous device. The BN24H is also used when connecting
an asynchronous device to a DECconnect wallplate.
An H8584-AA adapter is used when connecting the communications server to
existing MMJ wiring. The adapter uses a standard 8-pin modular plug on one
side and a 6-pin modified modified plug on the other end.
Figure A–3 shows the wiring configuration for the BN24H cable and H8584-AA
adapter.

Figure A–3 BN24H Office Cable Wiring Diagram

Server or
Wallplate

RXD GND
RXD
TXD GND

DTR
TXD
DSR

1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8

8-pin
Modular
Plug

A–6 Specifications

Asynchronous
Device

1
2
3
4
5
6

DTR
TXD
TXD GND
RXD GND
RXD
DSR

6-pin
Modular
Plug
LJ-01566-TI0

Appendix A

LAT Specifications
This section lists default LAT characteristics implemented by the communications
server. Table A–4 lists the communications server default characteristics.
Table A–4 Default Server Characteristics
Characteristic

Setting

Product type code

Node type

Master

Keepalive timer

20s

Master circuit timer

80ms

Password

8 characters maximum

Prompt

Local>

Queue limit

100

Retransmit limit

Session limit

64 (8 per port)

Server name

LAT_<Ethernet Address>

Table A–5 lists the communications server port settings.
Table A–5 Default Port Characteristics
Characteristic

Setting

Character size

Flow control

XON

Parity

None

Speed (Input = Output)

9600

Name

Port_n

Break

Local

Session limit

Specifications A–7

B
Related Documentation
The following documents are supplied with the appropriate software, or
documentation package.
Document Title

Order Number

Ethernet Communications Server Management

AA-PMF1A-TK

Ethernet Communications Server Problem Solving

AA-PMF2A-TK

Ethernet Communications Server Commands

AA-PMF3A-TK

DECserver 90TL Software Installation (VMS)

AA-PMF4A-TE

DECserver 90TL Software Installation (ULTRIX)

AA-PMF5A-TE

DECserver 90TL Software Installation (MS–DOS)

AA-PMF6A-TH

VMS LAT Control Program (LATCP) Manual

AA-LA32B-TE

Open DECconnect Building Wiring Components
Applications Catalog

EB-M4506-78

DEChub 90 Owner’s Manual

EK-DEHUB-OM

Documentation Ordering Information
Customers may order documents by phone or mail.

Continental USA and Puerto Rico
Call 1-800-DIGITAL (1-800-344-4825)
Mail to:
Digital Equipment Corporation
P.O. Box CS2008
Nashua, NH 03061