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Document:	MicroVAX Troubleshooting and Diagnostics
Order Number:	EK-O19AA-SG
Revision:	001
Pages:	62
Original Filename:

OCR Text

MicroVAX
’,

dlilgliltall

MicroVAX Troubleshooting

and Diagnostics
Order Number EK-O19AA-SG-001

digital equipment corporation

maynard, massachusetts

July 1988

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, if any, described in this document is furnished under a license and may be used or copied only
in accordance with the terms of such license. No responsibility is assumed for the use or reliability of software

or equipment that is not supplied by Digital Equipment Corporation or its affiliated companies.

The READER’S COMMENTS form on the last page of this document requests the user’s critical evaluation to
assist in preparing future documentation.
The following are trademarks of Digital Equipment Corporation:

COMPACTape

MASSBUS

ThinWire

DEC

MicroVAX

ULTRIX

DECmate

PDP

UNIBUS

DECnet

P/OS

VAX

DECserver

Professional

VAXcluster

DECUS

Q-bus

VAXELN

DECwriter

Rainbow

VAXlab

DELNI

ReGIS

VMS

DEQNA

RSTS

DESTA

RSX

Work Processor

FCC NOTICE:

Eflafluanw

ML-5923

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.

Contents
Preface

Chapter 1
1.1
1.1.1
1.1.2
1.2

Troubleshooting During Power-On

Autobooting the MicroVAX System

. ................

Autobooting MicroVAX 3500 and 3600 Systems.

1-1

.. ...
..

1-1

Autobooting MicroVAX II Systems

. . ... ...........

1-1

Troubleshooting Power-On Problems

. ...............

1-2

Chapter 2

Troubleshooting During Normal Operation

Chapter 3

Running the MicroVAX Diagnostic Monitor
(MDM)

3.1

Starting MDM . . . . ... L

3-3

3.1.1

RX50 Diskette Instructions

. ....................

3-3

3.1.2

TK50/TK70 Instructions . . . .. ..................

3-4

Systems without System Software . . . . ... ........

3-4

3.1.2.2

Systems with Installed System Software . . ... ... ...

3-5

3.1.2.3

VAXserver 3602 Systems . . . . .... .. ... ........

3-6

MDM TK50/70 Introductory Screen

.............

3-6

. .. ..........
.. ... .. .. ...

3-7

3.1.2.1

3.1.2.4
32

MainMenuOptions

3.2.1

Test the System

.. ... . . .. . ...,

3-7

3.2.2

Display System Configuration and Devices . . . ... ... ..

3-8

3.2.3

Display the System Utilities Menu

3.2.4

Exit MDM . . . ..

. . . ... ... ...

. . ... ...........

3-11

Appendix A

Diagrams for Locating Controls on Your
MicroVAX System
|

Index
Figures
3-1

MDM Main Menu

3-2

Sample System Configuration and Devices Display

... .. ... . . . . ... e

.. ...
.

3-9

A-1

MicroVAX II 630QY, 630QZ Controls and Indicators

... ...

A-3

A-2

MicroVAX II 630QB Controls and Indicators . . . ... ... ...

A-5

A-3

MicroVAX II 630QE Controls and Indicators . . . ... ... ...

A-7

A-4

MicroVAX 3500 Controls and Indicators

A-9

A-5

MicroVAX 3600 Controls and Indicators, Front View

. ... ..

A-11

A-6

MicroVAX 3600 Controls and Indicators, Rear View . . . . . ..

A-13

. . ... .........

3-7

Tables
1-1

Troubleshooting Power-On Problems

... .............

1-2

2-1

Troubleshooting Operation Problems

. ...............

2-1

Preface
Troubleshooting is the process of isolating and diagnosing problems with
your system. When your system does not operate as described in Operation,
use the information in this guide to diagnose the problem.

This book contains troubleshooting information for all MicroVAX/VAXserver
systems:

MicroVAX 1I, and MicroVAX 3000-series systems.

Appendix A

contains diagrams of each MicroVAX system.

Using the diagram of your
system, follow the troubleshooting procedures recommended in this guide.

This manual contains three chapters:

Chapter

describes problems you may experience at power-on and

corrective actions.

Chapter 2 describes problems you may have during normal operation of
your system and corrective actions.

Chapter

describes

the

MicroVAX

Diagnostic

Monitor

(MDM),

diagnostic tool you can use to test your system periodically or to isolate

a particular problem.
The troubleshooting techniques described in this manual do not identify all
possible problems with your system, nor do the actions suggested remedy
all problems. If the actions suggested do not solve the problem, call your
DIGITAL service representative.

Conventions
The following conventions are used in this book:
Convention

Meaning

symbol

denoting

terminal

ples

press

the

Break

key

cates

that

you

press

the

this

book.

For

key

used

example,
your

text

and

indicates

terminal

Return

key

keypad.
on

your

exam-

that

you
indi-

terminal

key-

pad.
A symbol indicating that you hold down the Ctrl key while you
press the C key.
Bold

Bold

type

wused

indicate

user

input.

For

exam-

ple:
>>> BOOT MUAO

This line shows that the user must type BOOT MUAO at the “>>>”
prompt.

WARNING
CAUTION

Provides information to prevent personal injury.
Provides information to prevent damage to equipment or software.

NOTE

Provides general information about the current topic.

Chapter

Troubleshooting During Power-On
When you power on your system, the MicroVAX processor performs a series
of self-tests and start-up routines. After successful completion of the self-tests,

if the Break Enable/Disable! switch is set to disable, the system attempts to
autoboot system software.

1.1

Autobooting the MicroVAX System

The MicroVAX autoboot function is different for each MicroVAX series system.

1.1.1

Autobooting MicroVAX 3500 and 3600 Systems

The MicroVAX 3500 or 3600 system attempts to autoboot a specific drive
when you use the Set Boot command (SET BOOT device name) from console
mode.

The system continues to boot from the specified device each time it
1s powered-on, until you specify differently by using the Set Boot command
again.

If you have not used the Set Boot command, the system attempts to autoboot
by looking for bootable software the same way that a MicroVAX II system
looks for bootable software. See Section 1.1.2 for more information.

1.1.2 Autobooting MicroVAX Il Systems
When a MicroVAX II system attempts to autoboot, it looks for bootable
software on the following devices in the order shown below:
1.

Removable disks and diskettes (RX33, RX50, and RA60 in ascending unit
number)

Fixed-disk drives (RD-series /RA-series in ascending unit number)

Tape cartridges (TK50/TK70, TS05, TU81-Plus)

EPROM

Ethernet adapter

1 MicrovAXx 11 systems have a Halt Enable/Disable switch.

Troubleshooting During Power-On

1—1

Normally, your system automatically boots system software which has been
installed on a fixed-disk drive.

When booting a fixed-disk drive, you must

remove all removable disks and place all disks ahead of the disk containing
the system software off-line. For example, if you want to boot system software
from an RA81 or RA82 fixed disk, place all removable media, as well as all
RD-series disks and RA60 disks (if any), off-line. (See operating instructions

for each drive in your system-specific MicroVAX Operation manual.)

To boot software from a TK50 or TK70 tape cartridge, or the Ethernet, you
must place all removable and fixed-disk drives off-line.
An alternative to placing disks off-line is to boot your system manually from

from the console terminal using the BOOT device name command in console
mode. (See MicroVAX Operation for more information.)

1.2 Troubleshooting Power-On Problems
If you do not observe the correct power-on and boot sequence responses,

refer to the possible problems and corrective actions described in Table 1-1.
If the actions listed do not solve the problem, call your DIGITAL service
representative.

NOTE: Table 1-1 occasionally recommends that you run MDM as a corrective
action. Refer to Chapter 3 of this manual for instructions on using MDM.

Table 1-1:

Troubleshooting Power-On Problems

Problem

Possible Cause

Corrective Action

Problems During Self-Tests
No

response

when

the on/off switch is
turned

System is not plugged

Set the on/off switch to 0. Plug in

in.

the system.

(switch is

Set the on/off switch

to 1.

not lit).
No power at the wall

Use

outlet.

check

the

trolling

power

let.

1-2

MicroVAX Troubleshooting and Diagnostics

different

wall

circuit
to

outlet,

breaker

con-

the

out-

wall

Table 1-1 (Cont.):

Troubleshooting Power-On Problems
Possible Cause

Problem

Corrective Action

Circuit breaker(s) has

Set the on/off switch to 0.

tripped.

set the circuit breaker(s).!Set the
on/off switch
cuit

breaker(s)

Re-

If the

cir-

trips

again,

call

your DIGITAL service representative.

Power cable is incor-

Set the on/off switch to 0.

rectly installed.

that the cable is fully seated in the

Check

socket. Set the on/off switch to 1.
The system has power

Console

(the on/off switch is

turned off.

terminal

Turn on the console terminal.

Put

the

fer

lit), but no display ap-

pears

the

con-

sole terminal.

Console

terminal

off-line.

terminal
the

on-line.

terminal

Re-

documenta-

tion for instructions.

Console terminal ca-

Make

ble is not installed cor-

stalled properly at both ends.

sure

the

cable

in-

rectly.

Console terminal Set-

Reread the section, Install the Con-

Up has not been done

sole Terminal, in MicroVAX Instal-

correctly.

lation.

Baud

rate

setting

the

system

and

the

terminal do not match.

Set the terminal baud rate to match
the system.

The normal operat-

ing setting is 9600.

Power-Up Mode switch

Set

on the CPU panel is

cated by an arrow).

the

switch

Run

(indi-

set to T.

Terminal is defective.

Turn off terminal and turn it on
again to see if it passes its selftests.

If it passes self-tests,

run

MDM diagnostics to check the sta-

tus of the terminal.

11 ocate and reset the circuit breaker(s) on your system using the diagrams in Appendix A.

Troubleshooting During Power-On

1—-3

Table 1-1 (Cont.):
Problem

Troubleshooting Power-On Problems
Possible Cause

The

self-tests

and

halted

The

mes-

error

sage Or error summary

system
error

Corrective Action

detected

while

run-

ning its self-tests.

Copy the last number of the error message or summary and call

your DIGITAL service representa-

displays on the con-

tive.

sole terminal.
The system loses power, Power

but the on/off switch

fail-

supply

Call your DIGITAL service representative.

ure.

is lit.
General Problems During Boot Sequence
The system returns to

Sanity

the BOOT prompt af-

abled on the DELQA

ter four minutes.

module.

tion Guide.

Instead
ically

automat-

starting,

sys-

tem power-on results

>>>

played

being
on

the

timer

en-

Break Enable/

Disable

sanity

timer.

Refer

DELQA-SA

Option

Installa-

To autoboot, set the Break

Disable®switch is set

Enable /Disable?switch (located on

to enable.

the CPU panel) to the disable po-

dis-

tem

con-

mode.

The sysIn

console

sole terminal.

sition.

Reset the system by press-

ing the Reset’button, located on the
power supply.

If you prefer to boot manually from
console mode, use the BOOT command (>>>BOOT device-name).

The message “?54
RETRY”

the

appears

console

No
on

bootable

media

was found.

See

actions

quent

termi-

the

nal twice.

listed

sections

for

boot

device

you

are

wus-

actions

listed

ing.

The

load system software

quent sections

through 0, even though

from

disk

the

drive or a tape drive.

ing.

from

Enable/

system
either

cannot
a

See

boot

Disable®switch is set
to disable.

2MicroVAX II systems have a Halt Enable/Disable switch.

3MicroVAX II systems have a Restart button located on the front panel.

1—4

subse-

table

The countdown does

Break

the

this

not

continue

MicroVAX Troubleshooting and Diagnostics

the

subse-

this

table

for

device

you

are

us-

Table 1-1 (Cont.):
Problem

Troubleshooting Power-On Problems
Possible Cause

Corrective Action

Problems Booting from an RD-Series Fixed Disk
The countdown con-

The

tinues

write-protected.

from

however,

system

disk

operat-

Release the write-protection on the
disk.

Make sure you know which

Write-Protect button/switch corre-

ing system error mes-

sponds to the disk containing sys-

sages display on the

tem software. Refer to your system-

console terminal.

specific MicroVAX Operation manual

for

instructions

operat-

ing your RD-series fixed disk.

The countdown does

The system disk is off-

Set the Ready button to the out po-

not

line.

sition (glows green).

The countdown does

The system disk con-

Install system software.

not continue

tains no bootable sys-

continue

from

through 0, even though

the Halt Enable /Disable
switch is

set to dis-

able.

The

mes-

sage “?4D DEVOFFLINE” appears on
the

console

termi-

nal.

from

through 0, even though

tem software.

the Halt Enable/Disable
switch is set to dis-

able.

The

sage “?42

NOSUCH-

FILE”

the

mes-

appears

console

termi-

nal.

The countdown does

A problem exists with

Run

not continue

the controller or fixed

scribed in Chapter 3.

from

through 0, even though

the

MDM

software

de-

disk.

the Halt Enable /Disable

switch is set to disable.

The

message

“?24C CTRL ERR” appears

the

con-

sole terminal.

Troubleshooting During Power-On

1-5

Table 1-1 (Cont.):
Problem

Troubleshooting Power-On Problems
Possible Cause

Corrective Action

Problems Booting from an RA60 Removable Disk Drive

The countdown does

The

not

write-protected.

continue

from

system

disk

through 0, even though

Write-Protect

the

is in (lit).

Break

Enable/

and

release

Protect

button

sition.

Make

the

sure

Write-

out

you

po-

know

which Write-Protect button corre-

Disable?switch is set
to disable.

Push

The

sponds to the disk containing sys-

tem software.

The sys-

tem cannot load sys-

tem software from the
RA60 disk.

The disk is not spun-

Set the Run/Stop button on the

up.

Run/Stop

disk

the

The

button

drive

control

disk
panel

was not set to the in

position.

drive

control

position.

panel

Open

the

the
front

door of the cabinet and press the

Reset’button on either power sup-

ply.

The RA60 drive door

the

RA60

is unlocked.

make

sure

the

drive

door and

lock release

but-

ton is out.

The

disk

drive

cir-

cuit breaker is tripped.

Press the Run/Stop button on the

disk

drive

out

position.

control

panel

Reset

the

circuit

breaker on the disk drive by pushing it down, then up again.

Press

the Run/Stop button to the in posi-

tion. Press the Reset’button on either power supply.
A problem exists with

Run

the controller or fixed

scribed in Chapter 3.

the

disk.

2MicroVAX II systems have a Halt Enable/Disable switch.
3MicroVAX II systems have a Restart button located on the front panel.

1—6

MicroVAX Troubleshooting and Diagnastics

MDM

software

de-

Table 1-1 (Cont.):
Problem

Troubleshooting Power-On Pro‘blems
Possible Cause

Corrective Action

The countdown does

The RA60 is off-line.

Set

not continue

Neither the A nor the

ton, A or B (or both), on the disk

through 0, even though

B button on the disk

drive control panel to the in posi-

the

drive

Break

from

Enable/

control

panel

Disable®switch is set

was set to the in po-

to disable.

sition when the sys-

The mes-

the

appropriate

port

but-

tion. Press the Reset’button on either power supply.

tem was turned on.

sage "?4D DEVOFFLINE” appears on

the

console

termi-

nal.

The countdown does

The system disk con-

not

tains no bootable sys-

continue

from

through 0, even though

the

Break

Install system software.

tem software.

Enable/

Disable?switch is set
to disable.

The mes-

sage “?42

NOSUCH-

FILE” appears on the

console terminal.
The

Fault

lit.

The

light

A problem exists with

message

the controller or fixed

“?4C CTRL ERR” appears

the

disk.

con-

sole terminal.

Press the Fault button twice. RA60
lights and indicators may begin to

flash.

If the RA60 lights and in-

dicators do not flash or stop flashing,

your system may have

rected itself.
ware
ter

dicators

described
If

cor-

Run the MDM softRA60

continue

lights

Chapand

flash,

in-

there

a
problem
with
the
controller or fixed disk. Call your DIG-

ITAL service representative.

2MicroVAX II systems have a Halt Enable/Disable switch.

3MicroVAX I systems have a Restart button located on the front panel.

Troubleshooting During Power-On

1—7

Table 1-1 (Cont.):
Problem

Troubleshooting Power-On Problems
Possible Cause

Corrective Action

Problems Booting from an RA80-Series Fixed Disk

The countdown does

The

not

write-protected.

continue

from

system

disk

through 0, even though

Write-Protect

the

is in (lit).

Break

Enable/

The

button

and

release

button

lit) position.

the

Write-

out

(un-

Make sure you know

which Write-Protect button corre-

Disable?switch is set
to disable.

Push

Protect

sponds to the disk containing sys-

tem software.

The sys-

tem cannot load system software from a

fixed disk.
The disk is not spun-

Set the Run/Stop button on the

up.

Run/Stop

disk

drive

the

position.

The

button

drive

control

disk
panel

was not set to the in
position.

The

disk

control

panel

Open

the

the
front

door of the cabinet and press the

Reset’button on either power sup-

ply.
drive

cir-

cuit breaker is tripped.

Press the Run/Stop button on the

disk

drive

out

position.

control

panel

Reset

the

circuit

breaker on the disk drive by pushing it down, then up again.

Press

the Run/Stop button to the in posi-

tion. Press the Reset’button on either power supply.
A problem exists with

Run

the controller or fixed

scribed in Chapter 3.

disk.

2MicroVAX 1I systems have a Halt Enable/Disable switch.

3MicroVAX I systems have a Restart button located on the front panel.

1—8

MicroVAX Troubleshooting and Diagnostics

the

MDM

software

de-

Table 1-1 (Cont.):
Problem

Troubleshooting Power-On Problems
Possible Cause

Corrective Action

The countdown does

The RA80 is off-line.

Set the appropriate port button, ei-

not continue

Neither the A nor the

ther A or B (or both), on the disk

through 0, even though

B button on the disk

drive control panel to the in posi-

the

drive

Break

from

Enable/

Disable?switch is set
to disable.

The mes-

control

panel

was set to the in po-

tion. Press the Reset’button on either power supply.

sition when the system was turned on.

sage “?4D DEVOFFLINE” appears on

the

console

termi-

nal.

The countdown does

The system disk con-

not continue

tains no bootable sys-

from 2

through 0, even though
the

Break

Install system software.

tem software.

Enable/

Disable?switch is set
to disable.

The mes-

sage “?42 NOSUCHFILE” appears on the

console terminal.

The

Fault

lit.

The

light

A problem exists with

Press the Fault button twice. RA80

message

the controller or fixed

lights and indicators may begin to

“?24C CTRL ERR” appears

the

disk.

con-

sole terminal.

flash.

If the RA80 lights and in-

dicators do not flash or stop flashing,

your

system may have

rected itself.
ware

ter

dicators
is

described

cor-

Run the MDM softRA80

continue
problem

lights

to
with

Chap-

and

in-

flash,

there

the

con-

troller or fixed disk. Call your DIGITAL service representative.

2MicroVAX II systems have a Halt Enable/Disable switch.

3MicroVAX II systems have a Restart button located on the front panel.

Troubleshooting During Power-On

1-9

Table 1-1 (Cont.):
Problem

Troubleshooting Power-On Problems
Possible Cause

Corrective Action

Problems Booting from an RA70 Fixed Disk
The

countdown

con-

The

system

disk

tinues from 2 through

write-protected.

Write-Protect

however,

operat-

Ing system error mes-

Push

The

Protect

button

is in (lit).

)

and

release

button

lit) position.

the

Write-

out

(un-

Make sure you know

which Write-Protect button corre-

sages display on the

sponds to the disk containing sys-

console terminal.

tem software.

The system disk con-

Install system software.

tains no bootable sys-

tem software.
The countdown does

The RA70 is off-line.

Set the appropriate port button, ei-

not

Neither the A nor the

ther A or B (or both), on the disk

through 0, even though

B button on the disk

drive control panel to the in posi-

the

drive

continue

Break

from

Enable/

Disable®switch is set
to disable.

The mes-

control

panel

was set to the in po-

tion. Press the Reset’button on ei-

ther power supply.

sition when the system was turned on.

sage “?4D DEV-

OFFLINE” appears on

the

console

termi-

nal.
The RA70 has not fin-

ished self-tests.

Wait until the Ready light comes on

and press the Reset’button on either power supply.

The countdown does

The system disk con-

not

tains no bootable sys-

continue

from

through 0, even though

the

Break

Install system software.

tem software.

Enable/

Disable?switch is set
to disable.

The mes-

sage “?42

NOSUCH-

FILE” appears on the

console terminal.

2MicroVAX II systems have a Halt Enable/Disable switch.
3MicroVAX II systems have a Restart button located on the front panel.

1—10

MicroVAX Troubleshooting and Diagnostics

Table 1-1 (Cont.):
Problem

Possible Cause

The

Fault

lit.

The

light

Corrective Action

A problem exists with

Press the Fault button twice. RA70

message

the controller or fixed

lights and indicators may begin to

disk.

flash.

“?24C CTRL ERR” appears

Troubleshooting Power-On Problems

the

con-

If the RA70 lights and in-

dicators do not flash or stop flash-

sole terminal.

ing,

your

system may have

rected itself.

ware described in Chapter 3.
RA70

lights

cor-

Run the MDM softand

tinue to flash,

indicators

If
con-

there is a prob-

lem with the controller or fixed disk.
Call your DIGITAL service representative.

Problems Booting from an RX-Series Diskette Drive

System does not boot

No diskette in diskette

Insert a diskette containing startable

(the countdown does

drive.

system software into the diskette

not

continue

from

boots

from

(the

another

device

wrong

software

pears

the

drive.

ap-

con-

sole terminal).
Diskette drive door or

latch is not closed.

latch.

Diskette is in the drive

RX50

upside-down.

that

the

diskette drive

Diskette

the

door or

Drives:

orange

Check

arrow

the

diskette matches the orange stripe
on the drive.
Refer to MicroVAX
tions

Operation

for

instruc-

inserting

and

remov-

ing diskettes.

RX33 Diskette Drives:

Check that

the write-protect notch is at the bottom.

Refer

eration

for instructions

MicroVAX

Op-

on insert-

ing and removing diskettes.

Troubleshooting During Power-On

1—11

Table

1-1 (Cont.):

Problem

Troubleshooting Power-On Problems
Possible Cause

Corrective Action

Diskette is not bootable

(does

not

contain

bootstrap program).
Diskette

worn

Use a diskette containing a bootstrap program to start system software.

Try another diskette.

damaged.

Problems Booting from a Tape Cartridge
System does not boot

No tape

(the countdown does

the tape drive.

not continue
to

from

from
(the

another

device
software

pears

the

Insert

cartridge

containing

sys-

tem software into the tape drive.

boots

wrong

cartridge in

ap-

con-

sole terminal).
Fixed-disk drive is on-

line.
tem

Your
starts

from

Place the fixed disk off-line.

systhe

fixed disk, if it is online.
Tape is not bootable

Use

(does

strap program to start system soft-

not

contain

tape

containing

bootstrap program).

ware.

Tape is worn or dam-

Try another tape cartridge.

boot-

aged.
A problem exists with

Call

the controller or tape

tive.

drive.

1-12

MicroVAX Troubleshooting and Diagnostics

your

DIGITAL

representa-

Chapter 2

Troubleshooting During Normal
Operation
Problems that occur during normal operation of your system may result from
a defect in the system, from faulty settings, or from incorrect procedures.
Table 2-1 lists problems, possible causes, and corrective actions. If the actions
listed do not solve the problem, call your DIGITAL service representative.

Table 2-1:

Troubleshooting Operation Problems
Corrective Action

Possible Cause

Problem

System Problems
System

loses

power

during operation. The

The

system

has

be-

Set the on/off switch to 0. Plug in

the system.

come unplugged.

Set the on/off switch

to 1.

on/off switch is not
lit.

No power at the wall

Use

outlet.

check

the

different

trolling

power

wall

circuit

outlet,

breaker

con-

the

wall

out-

Circuit breaker(s) has

Set the on/off switch to 0.

Re-

tripped.

set the circuit breaker(s).!Set the

let.

on/off switch to
cuit

breaker(s)

trips

If the ciragain,

call

your DIGITAL service representative.

Power cable is incor-

Set the on/off switch to 0.

rectly installed.

that the cable is fully seated in the

Check

socket. Set the on/off switch to 1.

1Yocate and reset the circuit breaker(s) on your system using the diagrams in Appendix A.

Troubleshooting During Normal Operation

2—1

Troubleshooting Operation Problems

Table 2—-1 (Cont.):

Corrective Action

Problem

Possible Cause

The system loses power

The power supply has

Check the DC OK light(s). An un-

during operation, but

failed.

lit DC OK light indicates a power

the on/off switch is

supply problem. Turn off your sys-

lit.

tem and call your DIGITAL service representative.

System

halts

pectedly

during

mal

unex-

The

nor-

the

The

nal was pressed inad-

operation.

console mode prompt

>>>

displays on

key
console

termi-

vertently.

the

Type “C” or “Continue” and press
RETURN|,

prevent

Break

recurrences,

set

the

Enable/Disablezswitch

the CPU panel to the disable posi-

console terminal.

tion and press the Reset’button to
reset the system.

Note that press-

ing Reset>causes the system to reboot.

RA-Series Disk Problems
Fixed
ror

disk

write

message

er-

Disk is write-protected

Press and release Write-Protect but-

dis-

(Write-Protect button

ton (not lit).

played.

glows orange).

The Fault light is lit.

A problem exists with

Press the Fault button twice.

the controller or disk

vice lights and indicators may be-

drive.

gin to flash.

De-

If the lights and in-

dicators do not flash or stop flashing,

your system may have

rected
tain

itself.

that

your system

cor-

be
is

cer-

operat-

ing correctly, run the MDM software
If

described

lights

and

tinue

flash,

lem

with

the

drive.

Call

there

3MicroVAX II systems have a Restart button located on the front panel.

2—2

MicroVAX Troubleshooting and Diagnostics

your

con-

prob-

disk

DIGITAL

ser-

controller

vice representative.

2MicroVAX II systems have a Halt Enable/Disable switch.

Chapter

indicators

Table 2-1 (Cont.):

Troubleshooting Operation Problems

Problem

Possible Cause

RA60/80-series Devices:
Fixed disk read error message is dis-

Disk

played.

position (not lit).

not

Corrective Action

spun-up

because the Run/Stop
button is in the out

Press the Run/Stop button to the
in position (glows green) to spin up
the drive. When the READY indi-

cator comes on, the drive is available for use.

RD-Series Fixed Disk Problems
Fixed

ror

disk

write

er-

dis-

message

Disk is write-protected.

played.

Release the write protection for
Refer to your systemthe disk.
specific MicroVAX Operation manual

for

instructions

operat-

ing your RD-series fixed disks
Fixed

ror

disk

read

er-

MicroVAX II Systems:

dis-

Disk

message

off-line

be-

cause the Ready button is in (not lit).

played.

Press and release the Ready button
(glows green) to put fixed disk online.

RX-Series Diskette Drive Problems
Diskette

read

error

message is displayed.

diskette

the

Insert a diskette into the drive.

diskette drive.

Diskette drive door or

Close the diskette drive door or

latch is not closed.

latch.

Diskette is in the drive

RX50

upside-down.

that

Diskette
Drives:
Check
the orange arrow on the
diskette matches the orange stripe
Refer to Mion the drive.
croVAX
tions

Operation

for

instruc-

inserting

and

remov-

ing diskettes.

RX33 Diskette Drives: Check that
the write-protect notch is at the botRefer to MicroVAX Optom.
eration for instructions on insert-

ing and removing diskettes.
Diskette is not format-

Use a preformatted RX50 diskette.

ted.

Troubleshooting During Normal Operation

2-3

Table 2—1 (Cont.):
Problem

Troubleshooting Operation Problems
Possible Cause
Diskette

Corrective Action

worn

Try another diskette.

the

Insert a diskette into the drive.

damaged.
Diskette

write

error

message is displayed.

diskette

diskette drive.
Diskette drive door or

latch is not closed.

latch.

Diskette is in the drive

RX50

upside-down.

that

the

diskette drive

Diskette

the

door or

Drives:

orange

Check

arrow

the

diskette matches the orange stripe
on

the

drive.

croVAX
tions

Refer

Mi-

Operation

for

instruc-

inserting

and

remov-

ing diskettes.

RX33 Diskette Drives:

Check that

the write-protect notch is at the bottom.

Refer

eration

for instructions

MicroVAX

Op-

insert-

ing and removing diskettes.

Diskette is not format-

Use a preformatted RX50 diskette.

ted.

Diskette

worn

Try another diskette.

damaged.
Diskette is write-

Remove the write-protect tab.

protected.

TK70 Tape Drive Problems

Green

light

blinks

rapidly after you in-

Tape cartridge leader

Pull

is defective,

move

sert the tape.

2—4

MicroVAX Troubleshooting and Diagnostics

the
the

handle

open

cartridge.

other cartridge.

and

re-

Use

an-

Table 2—1 (Cont.):

Possible Cause

Problem

Orange,

Troubleshooting Operation Problems

yellow,

and

green lights blink in

A problem

with

Corrective Action
the

Press

drive.

unison.

the

once.

and

green

lights

and

the

yellow

light

out

blinks,
ing.
on

button

orange

Unload

the

cartridge

wunload-

When the green light comes
and

move

you

the

hear

tape

the

beep,

cartridge.

re-

all

three lights continue to blink after

you

ton,
Do

the
not

tridge.

press

the

fault

Unload
not

remove

but-

cleared.

try

the

car-

Call

your DIGITAL

ser-

vice representative.

Handle does not move.

Power-on test is still

If you are trying to insert a cartridge, wait for the orange and yel-

in progress.

low lights to go off and the green
light to remain on steadily.

Then

try again.

Tape

drive

1is

ac-

Handle does not lock.

Do not attempt to move the han-

dle while the yellow light is on.

tive.

Cartridge

not

in-

serted properly.

Reinsert the tape cartridge.
problem persists,

If the

call your DIGI-

TAL service representative.

Cartridge does not un-

Unload button is not

Try unloading the

load.

working properly.

software

cartridge with

command.

Re-

fer to your system software manuals.
TK70

passes

power-

The

controller

may

on self-test but does

be bad,

or the con-

not work.

nection

between

drive

and

the

Call your DIGITAL service representative.

the

con-

troller may be loose.

Troubleshooting During Normal Operation

2-5

Table 2—1 (Cont.):
Problem

Troubleshooting Operation Problems
Possible Cause

Corrective Action

TK50 Tape Drive Problems
TK50 red light blinks

rapidly,

the tape drive.

but

un-

problem

exists

Press the Load/Unload button four

times.

usual sounds occur.

the

problem

per-

sists, do not attempt to use the tape

drive or to remove the tape cartridge, if loaded.

Call your DIGI-

TAL service representative.

Red light blinks rapidly

Leaders are not cou-

and you hear a whirring pled properly.

Immediately

turn

off

the

sys-

tem by setting the on/off switch

sound.

to 0 (off).
vice

Call your DIGITAL ser-

representative.

not

at-

tempt to remove the cartridge.

Cartridge release han-

Power-on test is still

If you are trying to insert a car-

dle does not move.

in progress.

tridge,

wait

for the

red

light

go out and the green light to remain on steadily, then try again.
Tape

drive

ac-

tive.

Do not attempt to move the han-

dle until the red light is off and the
green light is on steadily.

Cartridge release han-

Cartridge

dle does not lock.

serted properly.

not

in-

Reinsert the tape cartridge.

problem persists,

If the

call your DIGI-

TAL service representative.
Cartridge does not un-

Load/Unload

load.

is in the load (in) po-

ton

sition.

tion.

button

Make sure the Load/Unload butis

the

Wait

unload

for

the

(out)

red

posi-

light

go out and the green light to remain on steadily before trying to re-

move the cartridge.

2—6

MicroVAX Troubleshooting and Diagnostics

Table 2—-1 (Cont.):

Troubleshooting Operation Problems
Possible Cause

Problem

Load/Unload

Corrective Action
button

If you are trying to remove a car-

is not working prop-

tridge,

erly.

ing

the

cartridge

again.

the

Load/Unload

button

try

and

unloadSet
to

the

load (in) position for a few seconds, then press it again to the un-

load (out) position.
tridge

release

Move the car-

handle

only

af-

ter the red light goes off and the
green light comes on.

If the prob-

lem persists, call your DIGITAL service representative.

TK50

passes

power-

The

controller

may

on self-test but does

be bad,

or the con-

not work.

nection

between

drive

and

the

Call your DIGITAL service representative.

the
con-

troller may be loose.

TS05 and TU81-Plus Tape Drive Problems
The

drive

power up.

does

not

The circuit breaker(s)

Set the on/off switch to 0.

has tripped.

set the circuit breaker(s).!Set the
on/off switch
cuit

breaker(s)

Re-

If the

cir-

trips

again,

call

your DIGITAL service representative.

The

switch

the

Set the switch to A.

power controller is set
to B.

No power at the wall

Use

outlet.

check

the

different

trolling

power

wall

circuit
to

outlet

breaker

con-

the

out-

wall

let.
The

system

has

come unplugged.

be-

Set the on/off switch to 0. Plug in
the system.

Set the on/off switch

to 1.

11 ocate and reset the circuit breaker(s) on your system using the diagrams in Appendix A.

Troubleshooting During Normal Operation

2-7

Chapter 3

Running the MicroVAX Diagnostic
Monitor (MDM)
The MicroVAX Diagnostic Monitor (MDM) is a software package containing
diagnostic tests designed to isolate and identify faults in your system. The
MDM also permits you to display your system configuration, reformat disks,
and, if your system has two or more megabytes of memory, test how devices
work together. The diagnostic tests are packaged with your system on either
RX50 diskettes (labeled MV DIAG CUST RX50) or a tape cartridge (labeled
MV DIAG CUST TK50). MDM operating instructions begin in Section 3.1.

WARNING: If your system is connected to a cluster, notify your cluster manager
before halting the system to load MDM.
You generally run MDM in three situations:
*

Before you install system software on a new system

When you receive an error message or experience a problem with your
system

When you want to test your system periodically to ensure that all
components are operating correctly

How the MDM Tests Work

MDM tests individual devices in your system, however, MDM tests perform
limited diagnostics:

They perform reads to each drive and check each controller, however, the
customer tests do not write to the drives as writing to the drives could
possibly destroy data.

They do not check each device as thoroughly as the service diagnostic
tests, which are described below.

They check only devices themselves and not the connections or lines
between peripheral devices and the system.

Running the MicroVAX Diagnostic Monitor (MDM)

3—1

If devices pass the customer tests but you still experience problems, contact

a DIGITAL service representative for further testing.
Customers requiring more complete diagnostic testing should purchase the
MicroVAX Maintenance Kit. The kit includes the system maintenance guide
and the service diagnostic tests.

The MDM version that you receive is a

subset of this service version.

NOTE: Only qualified service personnel should use the service diagnostic tests.
Running MDM Under Special Circumstances
If you have a diskless and tapeless system that is part of a local area network
(LAN), you must obtain the MicroVAX Ethernet Server Customer Diagnostics
Kit.

Run MDM using the diagnostics in the kit that is labeled MV DIAG

ENET CUST.

NOTES:
1.

If you have a diskless and tapeless system that is not part of a local area

network (LAN), you cannot run MDM. To diagnose problems, call a DIGITAL
service representative.
2.

If your system is part of a local area network (LAN), you may want to reduce

the time required to load MDM on each system by obtaining the MicroVAX
Ethernet Server Customer Diagnostics Kit.

The MicroVAX Ethernet Server

Customer Diagnostics Kit enables you to install MDM software on a host VMS
or MicroVMS operating system and down-line load MDM to other systems

that are part of the LAN, using the DECnet /Ethernet network facilities. When
MDM is down-line loaded to target systems from a host system, the time
required to load MDM 1is reduced significantly.
If you have a VAXserver 3602 system, the CPU in the secondary cabinet

cannot boot diagnostic software from a tape cartridge. You must down-line

load the diagnostic software from the primary cabinet.
The MicroVAX Ethernet Server Customer Diagnostics Kit contains the MDM

diagnostic software and a MicroVAX Diagnostic Ethernet Server User’s Guide.
The user’s guide describes how to install MDM software on a host VMS or
MicroVMS operating system and how to down-line load MDM to a diskless

target system, using the DECnet/Ethernet network facilities.
If you have a diskless system that is part of a LAN, refer to the MicroVAX
Diagnostic Monitor Ethernet Server User’s Guide at this time. Once you have
installed and down-line loaded MDM software, refer again to this manual for

specific instructions on running MDM.

3—2

MicroVAX Troubleshooting and Diagnostics

3.1 Starting MIDM
CAUTION: Before you run the MDM software, be sure you understand the
instructions in your system-specific MicroVAX Operation manual (contained in
this documentation kit) for using the device appropriate for your diagnostic media
—either the RX50 diskette drive or the TK50/TK70 tape drive. Make sure the
media (tape cartridge or RX50 diskette) is write-protected.
You must start the diagnostic tests differently for different media. If you are
booting MDM from an RX50 diskette, read Section 3.1.1. If you are booting
MDM from a tape cartridge, read Section 3.1.2.

NOTE: Unless instructed to do so, do not change any settings or manipulate
devices while the tests are running. The diagnostic software interprets any change
of state as an error.

NOTE: If you are using an RX33 diskette drive, follow the instructions for

running MDM from RX50 diskettes.

3.1.1 RX50 Diskette Instructions
Because the system automatically boots first from an RX50 diskette, you can
run MDM software whether or not the system software has been installed
on the system.

NOTE: Before booting MDM on a system with software installed, warn all users

to log off and perform system shutdown, as described in your system software
manuals.

To run diagnostic software from RX50 diskettes, do the following:

Press the fixed disk 0 Ready button on the system control panel to the
out position.

Insert diskette RX50A into one of the drives (be careful to align the orange
arrow on the diskette with the orange stripe on the drive) and close the
door.

Press the Restart button if the system is running, or turn on the system
if the system is off.

Result: A countdown from 7 through 3 should appear on the console
terminal as the system performs self-tests. The countdown continues
from 2 to 0 as the system loads the diagnostic software.
4.

At this point, you may be prompted to remove diskette RX50A and insert
the next boot diskette. Remove diskette RX50A and insert diskette RX50B.

Running the MicroVAX Diagnostic Monitor (MDM)

3—3

Result: Within a few moments you should see the MDM introductory
display.

Make sure the current date and time in the introductory display are
correct.

If the date and time are correct, press

to continue.

incorrect, type the correct date and time, using the format shown in
the MDM introductory display screen. For example, enter 25-DEC-1987
02:30 and press

Result:

to continue.

Within moments you receive a message that the system is

preparing for testing.

Insert additional diskettes in order when prompted by the system. If your
system does not request all the diskettes containing diagnostic software,
your configuration does not need the additional diskettes for testing.
Result:

After a few minutes, you receive a message that the system is

ready for testing.

When you press [Retun], the Main Menu appears. Section 3.2 describes options
on the Main Menu.

3.1.2 TK50/TK70 Instructions
The diagnostic tests run the same way whether or not system software

has been loaded.

You must start the diagnostic tests differently, however,

depending on whether system software has been loaded.

The following

sections explain how to run MDM on systems without system software,
systems with system software, and VAXserver 3602 systems. Carefully follow
the directions for setting switches.

NOTE: Before running MDM on your TK50 or TK70 tape drive, you may want

to reread the tape drive operating instructions found in your system-specific
MicroVAX Operation manual.

3.1.2.1 Systems without System Software
If your system does not contain system software:

Make sure the write-protect switch on the tape cartridge is in the writeprotect position.

Remove any removable disks and place all fixed-disk drives off-line.

Turn off your system.

3—4

MicroVAX Troubleshooting and Diagnostics

Move the Break Enable/Disable! switch on the CPU cover panel to
disable (dot outside the circle).

Turn on your system.

When the green light on the tape drive glows steadily (if you are using a
TK70 tape drive, orange and yellow lights go out) insert the tape cartridge
containing the MDM software into the tape drive and lock it in place.

If you are using a TK50, press the Load/Unload button to the load (in)
position.

Result: While the system loads MDM, the power-on countdown appears
on the screen. Loading the software takes several minutes. An indicator
light on the tape drive flashes while the loading occurs.

If you are using a TK50 tape drive, a green light flashes. If you are using
a TK70 tape drive, a yellow light flashes.

Section 3.1.2.4 describes the display you see when loading is completed.

3.1.2.2 Systems with Installed System Software
NOTE: Before booting MDM on a system with software installed, warn all users
to log off and perform system shutdown, as described in your system software
manuals.
If your system contains system software:
1.

Make sure the write-protect switch on the tape cartridge is in the writeprotect position.

Remove any removable disks and place all fixed-disk drives off-line.

Move the Break Enable/Disable’ switch on the CPU panel to enable (dot
inside the circle).

Press the Reset? button if the system is running, or turn on the system if
the system is off.

If you are using a TK50 tape drive, press the Load/Unload button to the
load (in) position.

1 Microvax 11 Systems have a Halt Enable/Disable switch.
2 MicroVAX II systems have a Restart button located on the front panel.

Running the MicroVAX Diagnostic Monitor (MDM)

3-5

Result: While you are inserting and loading the tape cartridge, the normal

power-on countdown should appear on the console terminal. After the
countdown, you should see the >>> prompt indicating console mode.

Use the command BOOT MUAO to tell your system to load the MDM
software from the tape cartridge. Loading the software takes several
minutes.

An indicator light on the tape drive flashes while the loading

occurs.

If you are using a TK50 tape drive, a green light flashes. If you are using

a TK70 tape drive, a yellow light flashes.
Section 3.1.2.4 describes the display you see when loading is completed.

3.1.2.3 VAXserver 3602 Systems
You must run MDM software differently for each cabinet in the VAXserver

3602 system. To run MDM in the primary cabinet, follow the instructions in
either of the previous two sections. To run MDM in the secondary cabinet,
you must load the Ethernet server diagnostic software into the primary

cabinet and down-line load it to the secondary cabinet.> The Ethernet server
diagnostic software is supplied with your system on a tape cartridge labeled
MV ENET CUST DIAG. Instructions for down-line loading the software to
the secondary cabinet are in the MDM Ethernet Server User’s Guide supplied
with your system.

3.1.2.4 MDM TK50/70 Introductory Screen
When MDM software is loaded, the MDM introductory screen displays. Make

sure the current date and time in the introductory display are correct. If the
date and time are correct, press
to continue. If incorrect, type the
correct date and time, using the format shown in the MDM introductory
screen display.
to continue.

For example, enter 25-DEC-1987 02:30 and press

In a few moments you receive a message that the system is

preparing for testing.

Test preparation includes loading the remainder of the diagnostic software.
The loading process takes several minutes.

When the loading is complete,

you receive a message that the system is ready for testing.

When you press [Return], the Main Menu appears. Section 3.2 describes options
on the Main Menu.

3 To run MDM in the secondary cabinet, VMS or ULTRIX operating system must be installed in the primary
cabinet.

3—6

MicroVAX Troubleshooting and Diagnostics

3.2 Main Menu Options
The Main Menu has five options, as shown in Figure 3-1. Choose an option

by typing the number and pressing [Return]
Figure 3—1:

MDM Main Menu

N
MAIN MENU

Type

Test

Display System Configuration

Display the

System Utilities Menu

Display the

Service Menu

the

Exit

the

system

MicrovVax

number;

Diagnostic Monitor

then press

and Devices

the

RETURN

key.

MLO-1538-87

Option 4, Display the Service Menu, is available only if you have purchased

the

MicroVAX Maintenance Kit.

diagnostics

and

the

The

maintenance kit contains

system maintenance

guide.

Only qualified

service
service

personnel should use the MicroVAX Maintenance Kit.
The next four sections describe the remaining options on the Main Menu.

3.2.1 Test the System
Test the System runs a quick, general test of the devices in the system

and how they work together.

You can run the test at any time without

jeopardizing data.

When you select Test the System, a screen explaining the testing procedures
appears.

Running the MicroVAX Diagnostic Monitor (MDM)

3—7

When you are ready to begin the test, press [Retun]. The Begin Device Tests
screen appears.

As each device passes the test, it is listed on the screen.

NOTE: Because of the internal similarity of some communications options, the
diagnostic test sees these options as the same device. A DHV11 and DHQ11
appear the same to the diagnostic test. A generic device name, DH-CXO0, is
listed for similar communications options. The last letter in each device name
differentiates among multiple devices of the same type. For example, DH-CX0A
indicates one communications option, DH-CXO0B a second, and so forth.
If a device fails the test, you receive a failure message.
Each failure message identifies the device being tested when the failure
occurred and the field replaceable unit (FRU). Copy the failure message and
report it to your DIGITAL service representative.

If your system has serious problems, the following message may appear:
All devices disabled,

no tests run.

Report the message to your DIGITAL service representative.

When a failure message occurs, the testing stops.
When all devices pass the first part of the test, the exerciser test begins. This
test takes about four minutes and tests how the devices work together. At

the end of the test, you receive a success message.

At the end of the system test, press [Return] The Main Menu appears. From
the Main Menu you can either exit MDM by choosing option 5, or you can

choose one of the other options.

3.2.2 Display System Configuration and Devices
The Display System Configuration and Devices screen identifies devices
recognized by the diagnostic software.

configuration and devices screen.

3—8

MicroVAX Troubleshooting and Diagnostics

Figure 3-2 shows a sample system

Figure 3—2:

Sample System Configuration and Devices Display

“\\

(

MAIN

SYSTEM CONFIGURATION AND

CPUA

...

KA630-A MC=00

MS630-AA

...

banks

RQDXAQA

...

HW=01

memory module:
and

Q-bus

RQDXA-Q -

TKXXA

DEVICES

MicroVAX/rtVAx CPU

each bank

SDI

has

4MB

disk controller.

REV MC=5 HW=3

TK50/TK70 CONTROLLER

TK-Q-REV MC=4

DH-CX0OA

...

Diagnostics for asynchronous multiplexers

CXA/CXB16 16 line No modem ctrl.
DELQAA

...

DELQA

Press the

Ethernet

controller

08-00-2B-06-0F-CD

RETURN key to

return to the previous menu.

~—

MLO-1543-87

At least two lines of information are provided for each device. The first line
lists the name of the device and gives a brief description.
indicates the revision level of the device.

The second line

The revision level can refer to

hardware and/or microcode. For example, the KDAS0 controller described in

Figure 3-2 is at revision 5 for microcode (MC=5) and revision 3 for hardware
(HW=3).

Besides the general information listed for each device, additional information
for specific devices is listed as follows:

CPU—type of CPU, presence of a floating-point unit (FPU)
MEM—total amount of memory in megabytes and pages, number and
type of memory modules
RQDX3—type, unit number, and description of each mass storage device
connected to the controller
DELQA/DEQNA—the Ethernet station address

Running the MicroVAX Diagnostic Manitor (MDM)

3-9

Communications devices—the type of device and whether it has modem

control

In addition to showing information about testable device options, MDM
displays messages indicating the presence of nontestable systems devices. If
a device is physically present in the system but is not described under the

System Configuration and Devices display, one of the following two messages
can indicate the reason.

Message 1:
No Dg KAA

...

Diagnostic not

loaded

The “No Dg” (no diagnostic) “KAA” (KA630 CPUA) message appears in place
of the device name because a diagnostic was not loaded for the CPUA. This
can happen when the media is not installed properly or the diagnostic is not
present on the media.
MDM displays a “No Dg” message for each DIGITAL device present in the
system under these circumstances. For example, if MDM cannot find the TK70

tape drive diagnostic, the message, “No Dg TKA” appears.

TKA indicates

that the device is a TK tape drive.

Message 2:
Invld Dev

...

Diagnostic not

loaded

The “Invld Dev” (invalid device) message indicates that a device not
recognizable to MDM has been attached to the system. The message appears
under the following circumstances:
®*

A device is configured to a nonstandard CSR address.

A DIGITAL device that has no diagnostic has been attached to the system.

This may occur if a device not supported on a MicroVAX system has been

attached.
*

A non-DIGITAL device has been attached to the system.

Once all devices have been listed, you can return to the Main Menu by

pressing [Return],

3—10

MicroVAX Troubleshooting and Diagnostics

3.2.3 Display the System Utilities Menu
When you choose Display the System Ultilities Menu, you see the System
Utilities Menu. If system utilities are available for your system configuration,
they are listed on the menu. Choose the option by typing the option number

listed on the menu and pressing [Return]. If no utilities are available for your
system configuration, you see the following message:
No utilities for this system configuration.

If your system allows you to format RX33 diskettes, or to format fixed-disk
drives, use the following guidelines to make formatting easier.
NOTE: Running the formatting utility destroys all data on the disk. Use this
utility only if you want to erase the contents of a disk and reinstall system
software.

Formatting Instructions

If you are formatting an RX33 diskette, remove the diskette’s write-protect
tab, insert the diskette into the diskette drive, and lock the lever.

If you are formatting a fixed-disk drive, set the drive’s Write-Protect button
to write-enable (out).

When you are ready to begin formatting a diskette or a fixed-disk drive,
proceed with the following instructions:

To begin the formatting operation, type 1 and press [Return]. Write-protect
all drives except the one you want to format.

DPress

when you are ready to continue.

A list of the drives and

their unit numbers appears.

You are prompted to enter the unit number of the drive you want to

format. Type the number and press [Return]. Verify that you have input
the unit number of the drive that you want to format.

If the unit number is incorrect, type 0, press [Return|, and re-enter the unit
number. If the unit number is correct, type 1 and press [Return], The
formatting operation begins.

Result: As the operation progresses, you receive status messages. At
the completion of a successful formatting operation, a success message 1is
displayed.

If you want to format another unit, type 1 and press [Rewrn]. The formatting
process will begin again.

For example, if you want to format another

Running the MicroVAX Diagnostic Monitor (MDM)

3—11

RX33 diskette, remove the diskette that you have formatted, insert another
diskette, and repeat the process from step 1. Otherwise, type 0 and press

[Return]. The Utilities Menu displays.
6.

To return to the MDM Main Menu, type 0 and press [Return],

3.2.4 Exit MDM
Choose this option when you are ready to leave MDM. Type 5 and press

[Return]. You receive the exit message.

Remove the RX50 diskette or tape cartridge, as explained in your MicroVAX

Operation manual.

If you have run MDM on a new system, you are ready to install your system
software. Follow the instructions in your system software manuals. If you
have used the Disk Formatter Utility to format a fixed disk or a diskette,
you must reinstall system software. Set write-protection to write-enable, then

install system software.

If you have run MDM on a system containing system software, you must

reboot your system software.

You can reboot your system software in two ways.
®

Press
or the Halt button on the control panel. At the console mode
prompt >>>, use the command BOOT Dxxx, where Dxxx is the device

name of the fixed disk containing your system software. (Use DUxx if
this is an RD or an RA disk drive. Use DIxx if this is an RF disk drive.)

After the system software is loaded, set the Break Enable /Disable? switch

to disable, indicated by the dot outside the circle, to avoid inadvertently
halting the system by pressing the
key.

Set the Break Enable/Disable* switch to disable and press the Reset
This causes your system to begin the power-on sequence again

button.

and automatically load system software.

4 MicroVAX 11 systems have a Halt Enable/Disable switch.
5 MicroVAX II systems have a Restart button located on the front panel.

3—12

MicroVAX Troubleshooting and Diagnostics

Appendix

Diagrams for Locating Controls on

Your MicroVAX System
The diagrams in this appendix are to aid in locating the controls on your
system that may be referenced during troubleshooting procedures.

Diagrams for Locating Controls on Your MicroVAX System

A-—1

Figure A-1:

MicroVAX Il 630QY, 630QZ Controls and

Indicators

d] i)]t]al1
Micro

DC OK

Halt

SCTL;ON

ON/OFF

" SWITCH

LIGHT

Restart

%erl

RESTART

Fixed Disk 0

Write Protect

WRITEPROTECT

\Write Protect

BREAKER

BAUD RATE H
~~

SWITCH

T
P

MODE

POWER-UP

SWITCH

@
CONSOLE

\> .
H
Ready

Fixed Disk 1

CIRCUIT*

eCQ e

iprrin

TM\

Ready

TERMINAL ——-—D

NORY - _

CONNECTOR

NENABLE/
DISABLE

j NLED
DISPLAY

*Reset the circuit breaker by pushing it in.

Diagrams for Locating Controls on Your MicroVAX System

MLO-000437

A-3

Figure A—2:

MicroVAX Il 630QB Controls and Indicators
ON/OFF

RESTART/RUN

SWITCH

|
DC OK

LIGHT

HALT/
BUTTON

s
N

. OPTIONAL

<*+——+ FIXED-DISK

4 DRIVES

WRITE-

READY

[EF=——"— pROTECT

POWER- UP
MODE
SWITCH

BAUD RATESWITCH

CONSOLE TERMINAL
CONNECTOR

CB::qRECAUKIER—

Reset the circuit breaker by pushing it down and then lifting it to the up position.

MLO—000438

Diagrams for Locating Controls on Your MicroVAX System

A—9

Figure A-3:

ananan

Hait

Write Pro’tect
0

Fixed Disk

MicroVAX Il 630QE Controls and Indicators

MicroVAX
I1

'
o

Restart

Ready

—_—

ON/OFF

Write Protect
1
Fixed Disk

SWITCH

Ready

DC OK

—
EE—

—

POWER—-UP

MODE

SWITCH

—

| @

§:

L_J

#3°
o

300 @

—

600

Baud

BAUD RATE __
SWITCH

l
@l
s
.

CONSOLE
- TERMINAL

2400
4500
9600

38400

t‘

19200

CONNECTOR

SYSTEM CIRCUIT BREAKER*

POWER CORD
/ ONLY
'

| LED
DISPLAY

DISABLE

F—

—3
& -nvl-[:j-u.
\

;
HALT
ENABLE/

@2 |\

—

@
@

o oye

DEC POWER CONTROL BUS
@
{ocoh
J12

Jo9 N\ _7 )10

SHIELDY o

CABLE

e
A‘@'B

J1 \@/

SHIELDY ©

CABLE

L ®

R
L
*Reset the circuit breaker by pushing it down and then lifting it to the up position.

[o]

MLO-000439

Diagrams for Locating Controls on Your MicroVAX System A-7

Figure A—4:

MicroVAX 3500 Controls and Indicators

l Run

Fault

Write-

Ready Protect

m-rr'L
mmmn

W.mm
i
,,,,,,,

ON/OFF
SWITCH

DC OK

LIGHT

\ RESTART

v QV

BREAK
ENABLE/
DISABLE
SWITCH

BUTTON

POWER-UP

<+— MODE
SWITCH

LED
DISPLAY

,Ef

BREAKER

MODIFIED
MODULAR
JACK

_—

*Reset the circuit breaker by pushing it in.

Diagrams for Locating Controls on Your MicroVAX System

MLO-000440

A-9

Esl==Eimim]

MicroVAX 3600 Controls and Indicators, Front View

Figure A-5:

[Run

Ready St

Fault

T¢

mem:

i:‘;:

Iwmwut:

it i

\Lr""

DC OK
LIGHT

DISABLE

MODE SWITCH
@
O. —>‘<_

ENABLE/

SWITCH

\ RESTART

BREAK

BUTTON

OWER_Up

LED

DISPLAY

MODIFIED
MODULAR

JACK

——————
O | CIRCUIT*
BREAKER

L _——

MLO-000441

*Reset the circuit breaker by pushing it in.

Diagrams for Locating Controls on Your MicroVAX System

A-—11

d Indicators, Rear Vi

ls an
MicroVAX 3600 Contro
Figure A-6:

RTM

SYSTEM CIRCUIT BREAKE

DEC POWER CONTROL
J9

N e/

CABLE
SHIELD $ o

J10

CABLE

SHIELD b

n | ifting it to the u p position.

and the
a ker by pushing it down
*Reset the circuit bre

B us

k @
op ® oo
foo
J12
31 N/
°

MLO-000442

ls on Your MicroVAX System

Contro
Diagrams |or Locating

A-13

Index
A

MicroVAX Diagnostic Monitor (MDM)

description, 3-1

Autobooting the MicroVAX system,

Main Menu, 3-7

1-1

medium containing, 3-1

running, 3-1

Diskless and tapeless systems

when to run, 3-1

starting, 3-3
running MDM on, 3-2

MicroVAX Diagnostic Monitor

using the MicroVAX Ethernet

Ethernet Server User’s Guide

Server Customer Diagnostics
Kit,

diskless and tapeless systems use
of, 3-2

3-2

Display System Configuration and

MicroVAX Ethernet Server Customer

Devices

Diagnostics Kit

option on Main Menu, 3-8

included with diskless and tapeless

Display the System Utilities Menu
option on Main Menu, 3-11

systems, 3-2

P
Power-on problems, 1-1

Error messages

all devices disabled, 3-8

Invld Dev, 3-10
No Dg, 3-10

Exit MicroVAX Diagnostic Monitor
(MDM)
option on Main Menu, 3-12

R
RA-series Fixed Disks

operation problems, 2-2

Rebooting the system

after running MDM, 3-12
RX50 diskette drives

operation problems, 2-3

problems booting from, 1-11
Fixed Disks
operation problems, 2-3

problems booting from, 1-5

running MDM on, 3-3

Self-test

Main Menu

Starting the MicroVAX Diagnostic

during power-on, 1-1

of MicroVAX Diagnostic Monitor

Monitor (MDM), 3-3

(MDM), 3-7

Index—1

Starting the MicroVAX Diagnostic

TK70 tape drives

Monitor (MDM) (cont’d.)

operation problems, 2-4
problems booting from a tape

from a TK50/70 tape cartridge,

cartridge, 1-12

3-4

running MDM on, 3-4

from RX50 diskettes, 3-3

Troubleshooting

during normal operation, 2-1
Test the System
option on Main Menu, 3-7

TK50 tape drives

operation problems, 2-6
problems booting from a tape
cartridge, 1-12
running MDM on, 3-4

U
Utilities Menu
option on Main Menu, 3-11

W
Write-protecting disks
during formatting, 3-11

Index—2

HOW TO ORDER

ADDITIONAL DOCUMENTATION

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Call

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603-884-6660

Write

or New Hampshire

Digital Equipment Corporation
P.O. Box CS2008

Rest of U.S.A.

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Nashua, NH 03061

and Puerto Rico*
* Prepaid orders from Puerto Rico must be placed with DIGITAL'’s local subsidiary

(809-754-7575)

Canada

800-267-6219
(for software

documentation)

Digital Equipment of Canada Ltd.

100 Herzberg Road
Kanata, Ontario, Canada K2K 2A6

613-592-5111

Attn: Direct Order desk

(for hardware
documentation)
Internal orders

—

Software Distribution Center (SDC)

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Digital Equipment Corporation

documentation)

Westminster, MA 01473

Internal orders

617-234-4323

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