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Document:	RL01/RL02 User Guide
Order Number:	EK-RL012-UG
Revision:	002
Pages:	106
Original Filename:

OCR Text

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EK-RL012-UG-002

RLO1/RLO2
Disk Subsystem
User’'s Guide

digital equipment corporation - colorado springs, colorado

1st Edition, December 1978
2nd Printing (Rev), September 1979

Copyright ©) 1978, 1979 by Digital Equipment Corporation
The material in this manual is for informational purposes and is subject to change
without notice.

Digital Equipment Corporation assumes no
responsibility for any errors which may ap-

pear in this manual.

Printed in U.S.A.

The following are trademarks of Digital

Equipment Corporation, Maynard, Massachusetts:

DEC

DEC tape

DECUS

DIGITAL

Digital Logo

Omnibus

PDP

Q-Bus

Unibus

VAX

TABLE OF CONTENTS

L)
RO —
N

—

Interchangeability . ......... ... ... i 1-4
Sector FOrmat . . .. .. e 1-4

1-6
SECTOR LOCATION ... es J
e 1-6
e
e
BAD SECTOR FILE . . . ..o
e 1-9
e
RLO1/RLO2 SPECIFICATIONS .. ..

—
—

—— 0 00 J NN R W
NG =

CHAPTER 2

2.5

INTRODUCTION

i e 1-1
PURPOSE AND SCOPE . .. ..
1-1
e
...
S
DOCUMENT
REFERENCE
1-1
e
e
...
.
IONS
CONFIGURAT
SUBSYSTEM
ee e e 1-2
et
tt
e
RLOI/RLO2 Disk DIIVE .. oo
RL ControllerS . .o oottt ettt e e e et e ettt 1-2
RL11 Controller Description . ... .. ...ttt 1-2
RLV11 Controller Description .. ......... ...ttty 1-3
.. 1-3
.
.....
..
RL8A Controller Description . .....
RLO1K/RLO2K Disk Cartridge .................. PR 1-3

.L»JpJuJi\Ji\)i\)i\)v—‘

O
T
e T e
e
e
v
g
S g
W
[T

N DLW
W —

CHAPTER 1

INSTALLATION

SITE PREPARATION AND PLANNING ........ .. . i 2-1
Environmental Considerations . . ... .. ...ttt 2-1
Cleanliness ................... O 2-1
Space Requirements . .. ........oooniiiii 2-1
Floor Loading , . ... ..o ot 2-1
Heat DisSSIpation . . .. ..ottt 2-1
e 2-2
A COUSHICS .« v v et et ettt e ettt e
2-2
tt
TEMPETALUIE . . . o vttt et
2-2
e
..
...
. ......
Relative Humidity ......
2-2
e
e
ALGIUAE . . . oottt
2-2
...
i,
..
...
...
Power and Safety Precautions . ....
Radiated EMISSIONS . . oottt et et et e e e et 2-2
Attitude/Mechanical Shock . ... ...t 2-3
R 2-3
R
1 (0]5157
2-5
t
tt
AC Power ReEQUITEMENtS ... ... .o
2-5
.
.
Standard Applications . .............
Optional ApPpPlICAtIONS . ... ..ottt 2-5
e e 2-7
Installation CONSLIAINES . . . . vttt ettt e
2-7
ttt
...
...........
Grounding Requirements .
2-8
e
ACCABLING ...,
2-10
e
...
..
INSTALLATION - GENERAL
RL11 CONTROLLER INSTALLATION ............. e 2-10
RLV11 CONTROLLER INSTALLATION ... ... .. i 2-16
Bus Interface Module .. ... ... .. i 2-16
Drive Module . ....... . e 2-18
e 2-18
Module SIot LoCation . . . ...ttt
e 2-18
e
.t
..
.
.
.
Installation
Module

TABLE OF CONTENTS (CONT)

2.6

2.6.1
2.6.2

2.6.3
2.7

2.7.1

RL8-A CONTROLLER INSTALLATION ............. T 2-20
Introduction& .. ...........ooooii i, e 2-20
Module Slot Location .. .....
. .
....... 2-20

Module Installation .. ....... ... ...

2-20

RLO1/RLO2 DISK DRIVE INSTALLATION . ...... ..o
. 2-22
Unpacking and Inspection

.....
.. ... ...
.....
... .. .. . . . . ..
.. 2-22

2.7.2

RLO1/RLO2 Disk Drive Unit Mounting

2.7.3

Drive Prestart Inspection . ............
.. ...
i,
.... 2-27
Drive Startup Operation Check .....
... ......
... .. ... .. .........
.. 2-30

2.7.4
2.8

2.8.1

2.8.2
2.8.3

. ...................coo
.. 2-23

CONFIDENCE TESTING ................. e 2-30
RLI1-Based Diagnostics . ....
... . .....
.. 0
i,
... 2-31
RLVI1-Based Diagnostics .. .....
... .....
.
.. 2-33
RL8A-Based Diagnostics . ......
..
......
.
... 2-33

2.9

USE OF THE M9312 BOOTSTRAP WITH AN RL11 SYSTEM

CHAPTER 3

OPERATOR’S GUIDE

.............. 2-35

INTRODUCTION . ..o, 3-1

CONTROLS AND INDICATORS . . ...

3-1

Power On/Off Circuit Breaker .. ......
... ...
......
.. 0
.
. 3-2

RUN/STOP Switch with Load Indicator . . .................
.. .. .. ... .. . 3-2

UNIT SELECT Switch with READY Indicator . ......................
... 3-3
FAULT Indicator ............ .. .
3-3

R LN
=

WRITE PROTECT Switch and Indicator ......
...
......
.. ... .........
. 3-3
OPERATING PROCEDURES .. ... ... .. .
3-3
Cartridge Loading and Drive Startup Procedure . ..................
.. .. ... 3-3

Cartridge Unloading Procedure ......... I 3-4
OPERATOR MAINTENANCE .......... e 3-7
Introduction .. ... ...
3-7
Professional Cartridge Cleaning .. ... ......
.. ..
......
...
v
. 3-7

User Cartridge Cleaning . .. ............ ... 3-7
Spindle Assembly Cleaning ... ......
..
. .......
.
. 3-7

CARTRIDGE CARE SUMMARY .. ...

RL11/RLV11 PROGRAMMING INF ORMATION
GENERAL DESCRIPTION ................... e P PP 4-1

b —

DN
i

CHAPTER 4

el
sl s
D RO D — — —

.37

4.2.3.1
4.2.3.2
4.2.3.3
4.2.4

RLIT Controller Description . ............
.. ... 0.,
..... 4-1
RLVI11 Controller Description . . .....
...
.....
. .
..
... 4-1

ADDRESSABLE REGISTERS
Control Status Register.

. ... ... ..
4-1
.. ..................... e 4-1

Bus Address Register .. ........... . ..
4-4
Disk Address Register ......
. .. ..
......
...
.. A 4-5
DA Register During a Seek Command . .. ....................
... ... 4-5
DA Register During Read or Write Data Command .................. 4-5
DA Register During a Get Status Command . ....................... 4-6

Multipurpose Register

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

. . .

4-7

TABLE OF CONTENTS (CONT)

4.2.4.1
4.2.4.2
4.2.4.3
4.2.5

MP Register After a Get Status Command ......................... 4-7
MP Register After a Read Header Command ....................... 4-8
MP Register During Read/Write Data Command .................... 4-9
Register Summary ...................... P 4-9

4.3

CONTROLLERCOMMANDS.....................; .................... 4-12

CHAPTER 35

RLS8-A PROGRAMMING INFORMATION

5.1
5.2
5.2.1
5.2.1.1
5.2.1.2
5.2.2
5.2.3
5.2.4
5.2.5
5.2.6
5.2.7
5.2.7.1
5.2.7.2
5.2.8
5.3
5.3.1

e 5-1
e
GENERAL DESCRIPTION . ...t
ADDRESSABLE REGISTERS . ... e 5-2
e e 5-2
et
Command Register A ............. e e
Command Register A During a Seek Command ..................... 5-2
Command Register A During a Read or Write Data Command ......... 5-3
5-4
Command Register B .. .. ... .
Break Memory Address Register .. ........ ... 5-5
Word Count Register . ... ... ... 5-5
e 5-5
e
Sector Address Register . . .. .. e
Brror Register . ... ..ottt 5-6
5-7
Silo Data BUfer . . . ..o
.
Silo Register After a Get Status Command ........................ 5-7
Silo Data Buffer During a Read Header Command . . ................. 5-9
Register SUMMAry . ... .. ...ttt 5-9
CONTROLLER COMMANDS ................ e e e 5-14
i S 5-14
Maintenance Command . .............

4.3.1
4.3.2
4.3.3
434
4.3.5
4.3.6
4.3.7
4.3.8
4.4
4.4.1
4.4.2
4.4.3
4.4.4
4.4.5
4.4.6
4.5
4.6
4.6.1
4.6.2
4.6.3
4.6.4
4.6.5
4.6.6

No-Op (RL11) or Maintenance (RLV11) - Function CodeO .............. 4-12
Write Check - Function Code 1 .- .. .. e 4-13
Get Status - Function Code 2 . ... oottt 4-13
Seek - Function Code 3 ... 4-13
Read Heading - Function Code 4 . ....... ... ..o, 4-14
4-14
Write Data - Function Code 5 ... ... .
4-14
i
.
.
Read Data - Function Code 6 ..........
4-14
...
...
.....
........
7
Code
Function
Read Data Without Header Check 4-14
J
...,
...
...
...
OPERATIONAL CONSIDERATIONS
4-14
e
.
Interrupt . .. .. ..
Seek OPEration . . ... ...ttt 4-15
Overlapped Seeks . ... PO 4-15
Data Transfer .. ... oo e 4-15
..ot 4-15
... ... .....
Recovery of Data With Bad Headers ..........
....... 4-15
............
Cartridges
Disk
RLO1/RLO2
of
Non-interchangeability
4-16
e
e
...
ERROR RECOVERY
4-17
,
...
..
RLOI/RLO2)
AND
(RK05
DIFFERENCE SUMMARY
4-17
.onn,
..........
..........
Seeks
Mid-Transfer
or
Spiral Read/Write
Implicit Seeks Versus Explicit Seeks ...t 4-17
4-17
RECAIIDIAIE . . v o v e et e e e e e e e e e
4-18
e
oo
.
.
.
.
FIle
Bad Sector
RefOrmatting . .. oo ottt e et e 4-18
Seek INTEITUPL . . .ottt 4-18

Reset Command .. ......... ...
e 5-14

O 00 JON W AWM

AN NAEREARADRRARRARRLLLLWLWLWLW

Get Status Command . ......... ... e 5-14
Seek Command . ...

. e
e 5-15

Read Header Command ........... ... ...
Write Data Command . . ...

. ittt 5-15

... e 5-15

Read Data Command . ............
...
i 5-16
Read Data Without Header Check Command . .......................... 5-16
Maintenance Bit .. ...

...

.. . e 5-16

NN
A W=

OPERATIONAL CONSIDERATIONS ... ...

NN
B~ W
—

U nhhnhnhnhhnhhnhnhhn
hnnnh h D
D WD

TABLE OF CONTENTS (CONT)

APPENDIX A

. . ....5-18

8-Bit Mode Versus 12-BitMode ..............
. ... ... .. . . . ..
... 5-18

Interrupt . .. ....ooii P 5-18
Seek Operation ................. ... ... ....... T 5-18
Overlapped Seeks . . ... . e 5-18
Recovery of Data with Bad Headers .. .............. e 5-18
Non-interchangeability of Disk Cartridges ...............
... ... ........ 5-19

RLOIK/RLO2K . ..o
e 5-19
RL8-A/RLII/RLVIL .. e 5-19
Use of Two RL8-A Controllers .. ....... ... ... . .. 5-19
ERROR RECOVERY .. ... e 5-19

DIFFERENCE SUMMARY (RKOS5 and RLOI1/RLO2) ........................ 5-20

Spiral Read/Write or Mid-Transfer Seeks ... ..........
... .. .. ... ...... 5-20
Implicit Seeks Versus Explicit Seeks
Recalibrate

. ..........
... . ... .. ... ... .... 5-20

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

5-20

Bad Sector File . .. .. ...

5-20

Reformatting . ... ... ... .. e
e 5-20
Seek Interrupt . ... .. 5-20

RL11 CONFIGURATION AND INSTALLATION CONSIDERATIONS

FIGURES

W=
NN AW DN =

Figure No..

Title

Page

Typical RLO1/RL0O2 Mass Storage Subsystem Configuration . ...................
RLOI/RLO2 Disk Drive . .. ..o
e e e e
RLOIK/RLO2K Disk Cartridge Format ............ S
Access Method for Sequential Transfers ...........
... ... ... .. ... ........
Sector Relocation . . ...

...

Approved Electrical Plugs and Receptacles . .................................
Power Panel Grounded to Building Frame

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

Power Panel Grounded to Metal Plate ...........
... ... ... ... ... . ..........

FIGURES (CONT)

Typical 60 Hz Power SYStem . .. ... o.ouvti e 2-9
Typical 50 Hz Power SyStem . ... ...ttt 2-10
Split Phase (2-Phase) Power System .............ooiiiniierieen 2-10
Three Phase Y Power SyStem . . .. ..ot 2-10
i 2-11
RL11 Component Layout ... .......oooiiniiiiiii

—

o - O

]

= \O OO0

]

= \O
O\ N WK

Wh W b
Ut i I

RL11 Base and Vector Address Jumper Configuration. ...............coouooo.. 2-13
RL11 Priority Jumper Assembly Connectlons PP 2-14
RIL11 Controller Installation . . ... ... ...ttt 2-15
RLV11 Bus Interface Module (M8014) (Component Side) ... 2-17
RLV11 Base Address Switch Settings ... ... ...t 2-17
RLV11 Vector Address Switch Settings . ............o it 2-18
RLVI11 Drive Module (M8013) .. ..ot iiie 2-19
H9273 Backplane Grant Priority Structure ................ooeriiaeeenn. 2-19
RL8-A JUIMPETS . . o et ot ettt et n st 2-21
H950 Shipping Package ............. PP S 2-23
RLO1/RLO2 Cabinet Installation . ... .. ..ttt 2-25
i 2-26
RLOI/RLO2- Covers Removed . ........iuiniainii
2-27
RLO1/RLO2 Disk Drive - Rear View ........... e
2-28
..
ii
RLO1/RLO2 Disk Drive - Front VIiew ... ........oooiieni
RLO1/RLO2 Disk Drive - Exposed Drive Logic Module ...................... 2-29
RLO1/RLO2 Disk Drive - Front View ......... P 3-1
RLO1/RLO2 Disk Drive - Rear View . ..................o... S 3-2
Cartridge Loading Procedure ..............ccovviiiieneenn. e 3-5
CS REZISIET .. oo vttt tetetem et 4-2
BA REISIET . . o oottt e e ettt ettt 4-4
4-5
DAR - Seek Command . . . ...ttt 4-6
S
ann..
DAR - Read/Write Data Command . ............ccovnrern
DAR - Get Status Command . .......... .. e 4-6
MPR - Status WoOrd . . .o vt o e e 4-7
MPR - Three Header Words . . . .« oottt i e 4-8
MPR- Used as @ WOrd COUNEET . .. .o vvtvneit et 4-9
RegiSter SUMMATY . .. .. .ovvevene e e 4-10

Command Register A During a Seek Command . ................... 053
5-3
Command Register A During A Read/Write Data Command ...................
Command Register B ................ S P 5-4
Break Memory Address Register ... ... ... 5-5
Word Count RegiSter. ... ..ottt 5-5
Sector Address RegISter .. ... ..ot 5-6
EIror REZISIET .. .ottt e 5-6
Silo Buffer for Status Word 1 . ... ... i 5-7
Silo Buffer for Status Word 2 ... .. it ...5-8
Silo Buffer for Header Words ... ...t 5-10
ReZISEEr SUMINALY .« .« e vvee e e et s e a e e o e st s s e 5-11
Maintenance Mode Bit ... ... 5-17

Vil

TABLES

Title
Reference Documents .. ...

Page

. .. . .

1-1

RLO1/RLO2 Disk Drive Physical and Environmental Specifications ............. 1-9
RLO1/RLO2 Disk Drive Operational Specifications. .......................... 1-11
RLO1K/RLO2K Disk Cartridge Specifications ... ............oueunin.
... 1-12
Saleable RLO1/RL0O2 Subsystem Options . . ............ouuiuuiunani., 2-3
Saleable Cabinet Options

. ........ ... .. .. . . i 2-4

Diagnostic Catalogs and Indexes . ......... ... . ... . ... . . . i, 2-31
RL11-Based Diagnostics . .. ... .. 2-31
RLIT Diagnostic Kit Numbers . .......... ...

RLI1 Diagnostic COMpPONENtS
User DOCUmMENtS

o
— O

.. 2-31

. 2-31

. . ... 2-33

RLV11 Diagnostic Kit Designations

. ... . . .. . .

.. ... ........uiiiiint

....................
...t ino... 2-33

RL8/RLO1 Diagnostic Kits ... ... ... ., 2-33
RLS8/RLOI Diagnostic COmMpPONENts . ...............ouuuruuninaeeeean.., 2-34
RL8/RLO2 Diagnostic Kits . ...... ..., 2-34
RL8/RLO2 Diagnostic COMPONENTS . ... ...ttt
et 2-35
Controller Addressable Registers . ............
. ... . . .. . .
.. 4-2

RLI1/RLVI1 Controller Commands . .................ouuuuuiiunanann.
.. 4-12
BITOrS o 4-16

RL8-A Instruction Set .. .. ...... ... 5-1
RL8-A Controller Commands . . ............
. . ... . .
. 5-2
EITOrS .« o 5-19

Viii

CHAPTER 1
INTRODUCTION

1.1

PURPOSE AND SCOPE

This manual provides information on the capabilities, installation, operation, and programming of the

RLO1/RLO2 Disk Subsystem. The basic subsystem comprises one RL11, RLV11 ar RL8A controller and up to
four RLO1 or RLO2 Disk Drives.

This manual is intended primarily for operating and programming personnel. Service should be performed only
by qualified Digital field engineering and maintenance personnel. A prerequisite for understanding this manual
is a basic knowledge of PDP-8 and PDP-11 processors and peripherals.
1.2

REFERENCE DOCUMENTS

Table 1-1 lists the documents that will be available to provide the information necessary for a complete

understanding of the function, theory and maintenance of the RLO1/RLO2 Disk Drives and the RLV11/RLS-A
Controllers. The Unibus and LSI-11 Bus are described in the PDP1 I Bus Handbook (EB-17525). The Omnibus
is described in the PDP8/A Miniprocessor User’s Manual (EK-8A002-MM).

Table 1-1

Title

Reference Documents

Document No.

RLO1/RLO0O2 Disk Drive Technical Manual
RI10O1 Disk Drive Illustrated Parts Breakdown
RI.02 Disk Drive Illustrated Parts Breakdown
RLO1/RLO2 Disk Subsystem Preventive

EK-RLO12-TM
EP-00016-1P
EP-00016-1P
EP-00008-PM

Maintenance Manual *

RLO1/RLO2 Disk Drive Pocket Service Guide

EK-RL012-PG

RILL8A OMNIBUS Controller Technical Manual

EK-ORLSA-TM

EK-ORL11-TD
EK-RLV11-TD

RL11 Controller Technical Description Manual
RLV11 Controller Technical Description Manual

* NOTE - This document is only available to Digital Equipment Corporation Service personnel.
1.3

SUBSYSTEM DESCRIPTION

The RLO1/RLO2 mass storage subsystem is based on the RLO1K/RLO2K disk cartridges, the RLO1/RLO2 drive
unit(s), and an appropriate controller such as the RL11 (PDP-11), RLV11 (LSI-1 1), or RL8A (PDP-8). The
basic subsystem is illustrated in Figure 1-1.

1-1

<:::>

UNIT

CU/DRIVE INTERFACE

RL11

RLV11

RL8A

(DRIVE 0)

<TM

READ DATA

STATUS

SECTOR PULSES

N
*

UNIBUS

OMNIBUS

GET STATUS
K

SEEK DATA
°e WRITE

e Q-BUS

2)
(DRIVE

<::> (DRIVE 3)
|

OO O[O

CONTROL

CzZ-1007

Figure 1-1

Typical RLO1/RL0O2 Mass Storage Subsystem
Configuration

1.3.1 RL01/RL02 Disk Drive
The RLO1/RLO2 drive unit is built into a chassis that slides out of the cabinet to allow the operator access to the

top cover for loading and unloading of the disk cartridge. If the stops on the slide are manually released the
chassis can be pulled farther out so that the rear top cover can be removed for servicing. The front panel contains
operator controls and indicators.

The chassis contains a spindle, two read/write heads mounted on a positioner, logic modules, a power supply
with an ac power cord and circuit breaker, a closed-loop clean air system, a cooling air system, appropriate
safety interlocks, and connectors for the I/O cable(s).
.
The drive unit is shown in Figure 1-2.

The RLO2 drive unit has a label reading ‘‘RL02’’ on the front panel. The RLO1 drive currently does not have a
label identifying it as an RLO1.

1.3.2

RL Controllers

There are three controllers available for the RLO1/RLO2 subsystem. All can handle up to four drives and all

feature Direct Memory Access (DMA) operation.
1.3.2.1

RLI11 Controller Description — The RL11 Controller consists of a single, hex-height Small

Peripheral Controller (SPC) module designated M7762. It is used to interface the drive with the PDP-11

Unibus. The datais formattedin 16-bit words. This controller can handle any combination of up to four RLO1

and/or RLO2 Drives.

two quad-height modules
1.3.2.2 RLV11 Controller Description — The RLV11 Controller consists of Bus.
The data is formatted
LSI-11
the
with
drive
the
s
interface
r
designated M8013 and M8014. This controlle
in 16-bit words. This controller can handle any combination of up to four RLO1 and/or RLO2 Drives.
a single, hex-height module
1.3.2.3 RLSA Controller Description — The RL8A Controller consists ofdata
can be formatted in either
designated M8433. It is used to interface the drive with the PDP-8 Omnibus. The
RLO1 or RLO2 Drives.
8-bit bytes or 12-bit words. This controller has a jumper-determined choice of handling
However, in the RLO2-jumpered configuration, it can handle any combination of up to four RLO1 and/or RL0O2
Drives.

RLO1K/RLO02K Disk Cartridge

1.3.3
in a manner
The RLO1K or RLO2K is a removable, top-loading 5440-type disk cartridge that is formatted
has a
cartridge
RLO1K
The
platter.
unique to the RLO1/RLO2 subsystem. Both cartridges contain a single
sides
Both
data.
of
s
megabyte
10.4
hold
capacity of 5.2 megabytes of user data, and the RLO2K cartridge will
each
on
tracks
512
and
surface
platter
of the platter are used for data. There are 256 tracks on each RLO1K
last
The
data.
of
bytes
256
contains
sector
RLO2K platter surface. Each track is divided into 40 sectors. Each
ng
positioni
Head
on.
informati
sector
bad
and
track of the last surface is reserved for the cartridge serial number
field.
the
in
ed
reformatt
be
cannot
and
factory
the
servo information and header information are prerecorded at
This information, along with the data, is read by the read/write heads but the internal logic of the drive unit

protects the servo and header information from being overwritten.

'MA-0592

Figure 1-2

RLO1/RLO2 Disk Drive

1-3

1.3.3.1
Interchangeability — The RLO1K and RLO2K Disk Cartridges are not functionally interchangeable
although they are physically interchangeable. It is possible to mount an RLO1K cartridge on an RLO2 drive, for

example, but proper operation will not occur. An RLO1K cartridge written on an RLO1 unit can be read on any

other RLO1 unit even if that unit is controlled by a different type of controller. The only limitation to this

interchangeability is that if an RL8A controller is used to write data and the cartridge is to be used on a drive
controlled by an RL11 or an RLV11 controller, the RL8A must use an 8-bit byte mode of operation.

An RLO2K cartridge written on an RLO2 unit can be read on an‘y other RLO2 unit (assuming the same conditions
mentioned above).

1.3.3.2
*

Sector Format — As shown in Figure 1-3, each sector contains:
Servo information for head positioning

Header (address) information
*

Data — 128 words of 16 bits each, or

256 bytes of 8 bits each, or
170 words of 12 bits each
Only the data portion of a sector can be written by the user. The servo and header information is protected by the
drive logic and controller to ensure disk integrity and cannot be written in the field.
Each sector starts with a sector pulse that is produced by a sector transducer mounted on the drive unit. It senses

the sector notches that are machined into the hub of the disk cartridge.
During the time that sector notch passes by the sector transducer, the heads detect two servo pulse bursts (S1 and
S2) that are prerecorded on the platter. These servo bursts are used by the drive logic for head positioning.
Following the servo pulse bursts is the header. It consists of:
°

A preamble of three words — 47 ‘“0’’ bits and one ‘1’ bit

A word that contains the address — sector, head, and cylinder

A word of all zeroes

A word containing information created by the Cyclic Redundancy Check (CRC) logic

A one-word postamble
of all zeroes

Following the header is the user writable data area. It consists of:
*

A preamble of three words — 47 ‘“0’’ bits and one ‘1’ bit

Data (128 words of 16 bits or 256 bytes of 8 bits or 170 words of 12 bits)

A word containing CRC-generated information

A one-word postamble of all zero bits

Following each sector is a period of idle time that is simply a wait for the next sector pulse.
In addition to the data tracks, there are tracks both inside and outside of the data area that contain unique servo
signals that define those areas as guard bands. If the read/write heads attempt to enter a guard band, the drive
logic causes the positioner to retreat from the guard band and return to the data area.

The disk has a nominal rotational speed of 2400 rev/min. Therefore, the time for -one revolution is 25
milliseconds. Since the revolution is divided into 40 sectors, the duration of each sector is 625 microseconds.

This 625 microsecond period is divided into non-data (sector pulse, header, idle time) time and data time. The

data time period is 500 microseconds. Thus, the data is transferred in 500 microsecond bursts that occur every

625 microseconds.

1.6

RLO1/RL02 SPECIFICATIONS

The following tables list the specifications of the RLO1/RLO2 drives and the RLO1K/RLO2K cartridges.
Table 1-2
Table 1-3
Table 1-4

RLO1/RLO2 Disk Drive Physical and Environmental Specifications
RLOI/RLO02 Disk Drive Operational Specifications
RLOIK/RLO2K Disk Cartridge Specifications
Table 1-2 RLO1/RL02 Disk Drive
Physical and Environmental Specifications

Characteristics

Width

Specifications

| Compatible with 19 inch RETMA rack

Depth

63.5 cm (25 in) behind bezel

Height

26.52 cm (10.44 in)

Weight

34 kg (75 1b)

Mounting

The drive mounts on chassis slides

Power Source

90-127 Vac (47.5-63 Hz)
180-256 Vac (47.5-63 Hz)
(Manually selectable)

Input Power

160 W max at 115 Vac, 60 Hz

Power Factor

Greater than 0.85

Starting Current

3.5A (rms) max @ 90 Vac/47.5-63 Hz
5.0A (rms) max @ 127 Vac/47.5-63 Hz
1.75A (rms) max @ 180 Vac/47.5-63 Hz
2.5A (rms) max @ 254 Vac/47.5-63 Hz

Heat Dissipation

546 Btu/hr max

Power Cord and Connector

A molded line cord compatible with the drive operating voltage and the 861
power control for 120 Vac is attached to the drive. The power cord 1s 2.74 m
(9 ft) long and the plug i1s NEMA 5-15P.

The 230 Vac plug to be attached to high voltage drives 1s NEMA 6-15P.
Safety

The RLO1/RLO2 Disk Drive is UL listed and CSA certified.

Interlocks

Interlocks are used where potential exists for damage to drive, media,

operators, or service personnel.

1-9

RL01/RL02 Disk Drive

Table 1-2

Physical and Environmental Specifications (Cont)
Characteristics

Specifications

Temperature/Humidity

Operating:
Temperature: 10° C (50° F) to 40° C (104° F)

Derate temperature at 1.8° C/1000 meters (1° F/1000 feet)

Relative Humidity: 10 to 90 percent with maximum wet bulb temperature 28°
C (82° F) and minimum dew point 2° C (36° F)
Nonoperating:

Temperature: —40° C (—40° F) to 66° C (151° F)
Relative Humidity: 10 to 95 percent, noncondensing

Altitude

Operating:

2440 m (8,000 ft) max

Nonoperating:

Shock

9144 m (30,000 ft) max

Operating:

Half sine shock pulse of gravity peak and 10 = 3 ms duration applied once in

either direction of three orthagonal axes (3 pulses total)
Nonoperating:

Half sine shock pulses of 40 gravity peak and 30 = 10 ms duration perpen-

dicular to each of six package surfaces.

Vibration

Operating:

Sinusoidal vibration (sweep rate 1 octave/min)
5-50 Hz, 0.002 in displacement amplitude
50-500 Hz, 0.25 gravity peak
500-50 Hz, 0.25 gravity peak
50-5 Hz, 0.002 in displacement amplitude

Nonoperating:

Vertical Axis Excitation — 1.40 gravity (rms) overall from 10 to 300 Hz,

- power spectral density of 0.029 g?/Hz from 10 to 50 Hz, with 8 dB/octave
rolloff from 50 to 300 Hz

Longitudinal and Lateral Axis Excitation —0.68 gravity (rms) overall from 10
to 200 Hz; power spectral density of 0.007 g?/Hz from 10 to 50 Hz, with 8
dB/octave rolloff from 50 to 200 Hz

EMI

Meets DEC Standard 102, Section 7.

Dust

The drive will operate in an ambient atmosphere of less than 5 million

particles 0.5 microns or larger per cubic foot of air. The drive is intended to

run in a light industry or cleaner environment.

Attitude

Maximum pitch: = 15 degrees

Maximum roll: = 15 degrees

1-10

Table 1-3

RL01/RL02 Disk Drive Operational Specifications

Characteristics

| Specifications

General

Linear bit density: 147 bits/mm (3725 bits/in) at innermost track
16 bit words per sector: 128

Number of sectors per track: 40

Track density: 4.9/mm (125/in) for RLO1K, 9.8/mm (250/in) for RLO2K
Number of tracks per surface: 256 for RLO1K, 512 for RLO2K

Number of surfaces: 2

Formatted capacity (megabytes): 5.2 for RLOIK, 10.4 for RLO2K
Encoding method: Modified Frequency Modulation (MFM)
Transfer Rate

- Bit rate: 4.1 megabits/second * 1 percent

(Unbuffered Values) .

Bit cell width: 244 ns = 1 percent

Latency

Rotational frequency: 2400 rev/min = 0.25%

Word transfer rate (16 bit words): 256 kilowords/second * 1 percent

Average latency: 12.5 ms = 0.25%
Maximum latency: 25.0 ms = 0.25%
Seek Time

Average seek time: 55 ms max (85 tracks for RLO1, 170 tracks for RLO2)
One cylinder/track seek time: 15 ms max

Maximum seek time: 100 ms max (256 tracks for RLO1, 512 tracks for RLO2)
Start/Stop Time

~ Start time: 45 seconds

Stop time: 30 seconds
Data Format

‘Refer to Figure 1-3

Table 1-4

RLO1K/RLO2K Disk Cartridge Specifications

Characteristics

Specifications

Operating Environment

The cartridge will operate over a temperature range of 4° C to 48° C (40° F to
120° F), at arelative humidity of 8 to 80 percent. The wet bulb reading must be
less than 25° C (78° F). Before a cartridge is placed in operation, it should be
conditioned within its cover for a minimum of 2 hours in the same environment as that in which the disk drive 1s operating. (The above specified ranges
~do not necessarily apply to the disk drive).

Storage Environment

The cartridge should be stored at a temperature between —40° C to 65° C
(—40° F to 150° F), with a wet bulb reading not exceeding 29° C (85° F). For
wet bulb temperatures between 0.56° C and 29° C (33° F and 85° F) the disk
cartridge will withstand a relative humidity of 8 to 80 percent. The stray
magnetic field intensity shall not exceed 50 Oe.

Dimensions (Cartridge)

The external diameter of the- top cover is 38.35 cm (15.1 in).
The external diameter of the protection cover 1s 37.03 cm (14.58 1in).
The external height of the cartridge is 6.19 cm (2.44 1n).

Maximum Speed

The rotating parts of the disk cartridge are capable of withstanding the effect

of stress created while rotating at 2,500 rev/min.
Track Geometry

There are 256 discrete concentric tracks per data surface for the RLOIK, 512
tracks per data surface for the RLO2K.

Identification of

Data Track Identification — Data tracks are numbered by consecutive decimal

Data Location

numbers (000-255, RLO1K; 000-511, RLO2K) starting at the outermost data
track of each data surface.

Data Surface Identification — The upper data surface is numbered O and the
lower surface is numbered 1, to correspond with the head numbers.
Cylinder Address — A cylinder is defined as both data tracks (on either
surface) with a common data track identification.
Data Track Address — A 16-bit word defines the data track address. Bits 0-5

define the sector, bit 6 defines the surface, and bits 7-15 define the cylinder

address. This information is in word 1 of each sector’s header.

CHAPTER 2
INSTALLATION

2.1

SITE PREPARATION AND PLANNING

This chapter describes power, space, environmental, cabling and safety requirements that must be considered
before installation of the RLO1/RLO2 Disk Subsystem.
2.1.1

Environmental Considerations

The RLO1/RLO2 Disk Subsystem is designed to operate in a business or light industry environment. Although
cleanliness is an important consideration in the installation of any computer system, it is particularly crucial for
proper operation of a disk drive. The RLO1K-RLO2K Disk Cartridge is not sealed while being loaded and 1s
therefore vulnerable to dust or smoke particles suspended in the air, as well as fingerprints, hair, lint, etc. These
minute obstructions can cause head crashes, resulting in severe damage to the read/write heads and disk
surfaces.

2.1.1.1 Cleanliness — The RLO1/RLO02 Disk Drives can operate in an ambient with less than one million
particles per cubic foot of air which are 0.5 micron or larger in diameter. The drive contains a filter system
which, under these conditions, maintains the particle count within the cartridge below 100 particles per cubic
foot.

2.1.1.2 Space Requirements — Provision should be made for service clearances of 1 m (36 in) at the front and
rear of the rack or cabinet in which the drive is mounted and 1 m (36 in) at either side.

Storage space for the RLO1K/RLO2K cartridges should also be made available. Each cartridge has a diameter of

approximately 38 cm (15 in) and a height of approximately 6 cm (2.5 in).
CAUTION

RLO1K/RL02K Disk Cartridges must never be
stacked on top of each other. A designated shelf area
or specially designed disk cartridge storage unit is
recommended (see the DIGITAL Supplies and Ac-

cessories Catalog).

2.1.1.3 Floor Loading — The weight of the RLO1/RLO02 Disk Drive alone is 34 kg (75 1b), which will not
place undue stress on most floors. However, the added weight of the rack or cabinet as well as the number of
drives to be installed should be considered in relation to the weight of existing computer systems. Possible
future expansion should also be a consideration.

2.1.1.4 Heat Dissipation — The heat dissipation of each RLO1/RLO2 Disk Drive is 546 Btu/hour maximum.
The approximate cooling requirements for the entire system can be calculated by multiplying this figure by the

number of drives, adding the result to the total heat dissipation of the other system components, and then
adjusting the total figure to compensate for personnel, cooling system efficiency, etc. It is advisable to allow a
safety margin of at least 25 percent above the maximum estimated requirements.

2-1

2.1.1.5

Acoustics — Most computer sites require at least some degree of acoustical treatment. However, the

RLO1/RLO2 Disk Subsystem should not contribute unduly to the overall system noise level. Ensure that
acoustical materials used do not produce or harbor dust.

2.1.1.6 Temperature — The RLO1/RLO02 Disk Subsystem will operate over a temperature range of 10° C (50°
F) to 40° C (104° F). The maximum temperature gradient is 16.6° C (30° F) per hour. The nonoperating

temperature range 1s from -40° C (-40° F) to 66° C (151° F).

2.1.1.7

Relative Humidity — Humidity control is important for proper operation of any computer system
since static electricity may cause memory errors or even permanent damage to logic components. The

RLO1/RLO2 Disk Subsystem is designed to operate within a relative humidity range of 10 to 90 percent, with a

maximum wet bulb temperature of 28° C (82° F) and a minimum dew point of 2° C (36° F). The nonoperating

relative humidity range is from 10 to 95 percent, with a maximum wet bulb temperature of 46° C (115° F).

2.1.1.8

Altitude — Computer systems operating at high altitudes may have heat dissipation problem:s.
Altitude also affects the flying height of read/write heads in disk drives. The maximum altitude specified for

operating the RLO1/RLO2 Disk Subsystem is 2440 M (8000 ft). Also, the maximum allowable operating

temperature is reduced by a factor of 1.8° C per 1000m (1° F per 1000 ft) above sea level. Thus, the maximum
allowable operating temperature at 2440 m (8000 ft) would be reduced to 36°C (96° F).

2.1.1.9 Power and Safety Precautions — The RLO1/RLO02 Disk Subsystem presents no unusual fire or safety
hazards to an existing computer system. AC power wiring should be checked carefully, however, to ensure that

its capacity is adequate for the added load as well as for any possible expansion. The RLO1/R1L02 Disk Drive is
UL listed and CSA certified.

2.1.1.10

Radiated Emissions — Any source of electromagnetic interference (EMI) that is near the computer

system may affect the operation of the processor and its related peripheral equipment. Common EMI sources

that are known causes of failures include:
Thunderstorms

Broadcast stations
Radar

Mobile communications

High-voltage power lines

Power tools

Arc welders

Vehicle ignition systems

Static electricity

The effect of radiated EMI emissions on a computer system is unpredictable. Thus, grounding plays an
important role in protecting the circuits used in disk drive subsystems.
To help reduce the effects of known high-intensity EMI emissions perform the following actions:
*
°

Ground window screens and other large metal surfaces.
Ensure that the overall computer system is grounded properly (refer to Paragraph 2. 1.5, Grounding

Requirements).
*

Provide proper storage (metal cabinets with doors) for disk cartridges.

2-2

2.1.1.11 Attitude/Mechanical Shock — Performance of the RLO1/RL02 Disk Subsystem will not be affected
by an attitude where maximum pitch and roll do not exceed 15 degrees.

The subsystem is designed to operate while a half-sine shock pulse of 10 gravity peak and 10 = 3 ms duration 1s
applied once in either direction of three orthagonal axes (three pulses total).

2.1.2

Options

The RLO1/RLO2 Disk Drive can be shipped with various controllers (for Unibus, Omnibus and LSI-11 Bus

computer systems), and can be configured for 115 Vac or 230 Vac operation.

Table 2-1 shows saleable RLLO1/RLO2 subsystem options. Table 2-2 shows RLO1/RLO2 cabinet options.
Table 2-1
Option

Saleable RL0O1/RL02 Subsystem Options

Number

Description

RLO1A

RLO1 unit, BC20J I/O cable, chassis slide and mounting hardware

RLO2A

RLO2 unit, BC20J 1/O cable, chassis slide and mounting hardware

RLO1-AK

RLO1-A (drive), RLO1K-DC (cartridge)

RLO2-AK

RLO2-A (drive), RLO2K-DC (cartridge)

RLO1K-DC

RLO1 Data Cartridge

RLO2K-DC

R1.02 Data Cartridge

RL11-AK

RLO1-AK, RL11 Controller, BCO6R, terminator

RL211-AK

RL02-AK, RL11 Controller, BCO6R, terminator

RLVI1-AK

RLO1-AK, RLV11 Controller, BCO6R, terminator

RLV21-AK

RL0O2-AK, RLV11 Controller, BCO6R, terminator

RL8A-AK

RLO1-AK, RLS8-A Controller, BC80J, terminator

RL28A-AK

RLO2-AK, RL8-A Controller, BC80J, terminator

2-3

Table 2-2

Type

Volts

H950
H96¢7

Saleable Cabinet Options: (Includes skins, doors, covers, trim, and power controllers)

Dwg

Remarks

110

H960-BC

- 220

H960-BD

Includes five 26.67 cm (10.5 in) high panels

110

H967-BA

220

H967-BB

required.

H9603-ED

SWLB with H9514-B top covers

220

H9603-EE

110

DWLB with H9514-A top covers

H9601-ED

1220

H9601-EE

110

H9602-EA

H9500 | 110

220

H9602-EB

110

H9600-EA

H9500 | 220

H9600-EB
H9602-B-O
H9600-A-O

H9603-B-O

26.67 cm (10.5 in) cover panels (H950-QA) must be ordered if

SWHB complete hiboy cabinet
DWHB complete hiboy cabinet

‘SWHB option arrangement dwg.
Order as required.
DWHB option arrangement dwg.
Order as required.
SWLB option arrangement dwg.
Order as required.

H9500

H9601-A-O

DWHB option arrangement dwg.
Order as required.

Saleable Cable Options: Where an I/O cable length of more than 10 feet is required,
order one of the
following:
Order No.

Part No.

Length
6 m (20 ft)

BC20J-20

7012122-20

BC20J-40

7012122-40

BC20J-60

7012122-60

Total length of cable(s) from the controller to the last drive must not exceed

2-4

12 m (40 ft)
18 m (60 ft)

30 m (100 ft).

2.1.3

AC Power Requirements

The RLO1 or RLO2 drive can operate within one of four voltage ranges that are manually selected by means of

two terminal blocks located at the rear of the device (Figure 2-1). These voltage ranges are:

NOM
LO

110

220

100-120
90-105

200-256
180-210

The drive will operate when the line frequency is between 47.5 and 63 Hz.
/0 CABLE

(“CABLE IN")

TERMINATOR

NORMAL/LOW

N /

LINE VOLTAGE

TERMINAL BLOCK

COVER

)

CABLE “OUT"
110/220 VOLTS
TERMINAL

BLOCK COVER

AC LINECORD
CIRCUIT BREAKER
CZ-1056

Figure 2-1

2.1.3.1

RLO1/RLO2 Disk Drive-Rear View

Standard Applications — The drive can be shipped from the factory as a free-standing unit or

mounted in various racks and cabinets (refer to Paragraph 2.1.2, Options).

If shipped as a free-standing unit, the 2.74 m (9 ft) ac power cord is terminated with a NEMA type 5-15P plug
(DIGITAL Part No. 90-08938). This plug requires a NEMA type 5-15R receptacle (Figure 2-2).

2.1.3.2 Optional Applications — Operation in the high voltage range (180-256 Vac) will require reconfiguring the terminal block at the rear of the drive and changing the line cord plug (Figure 2-1).
In 50 Hz applications, the line cord plug must be changed (Figure 2-2).

2-5

SOURCE

PLUG

RECEPTACLE

USED ON
ALL 120 V TABLE-TOP

120V
15A

1-PHASE

COMPUTERS. STANDARD
120V LOW-CURRENT

HUBBEL
#6266-C
NEMA
# 5-16P

#5262
5-15R

DEC # 90-08938

DISTRIBUTION. 120V
TU10 UNITS. MOST
120V TERMINAL DEVICES.

12-05351

;33\/208\/

3.PHASE Y

ALL 120V STANDARD

CABINET MOUNTED EOPT

42611

NEMA # L6-30P

DEC # 12-11193

L5-30R

X
G

2-PHASE
or

42610

HUBBEL

20A

#2411

3-PHASE Y

NEMA # L14-20P

DEC # 12-11045

G AN

POWER

CONTROLLER
861-C

12-11194

20A

120/208V

861-F

HUBBEL

120/208-240V

POWER

CONTROLLER

#2410

)

120V PDP-11/46 PRO-

CESSOR CABINET ONLY.

POWER
CONTROLLER
861-A

L14-20R
Y

12-11046

X
N\

1(2)2/208V

$PHASEY

60 Hz RM 10 DRUM

60 Hz RPO2/RP03/

HUBBEL

#2611

NEMA # L21-20P
DEC # 12-11209

RPO4, ‘ RPOB, ’ RPO6

#2510

L21-20R

12-11210

r4
ALL 240V TABLE-TOP

COMPUTERS.

240V
15A
1-PHASE

STANDARD LOW-CURRENT
240V DISTRIBUTION.
MOST 240V TERMINAL
DEVICES.

NEMA # 6-16P

6-15R

DEC # 90-08863

12-11204

240V

20A

1-PHASE

ALL 240V STANDARD

HUBBEL

CABINET MOUNTED

NEMA # L6-20P

42321

42320
L6-20R

DEC # 12-11192

12-11191

EQUIPMENT.

POWER

CONTROLLER

861-B

240/416V

20A

50 Hz RM10 DRUM

3-PHASE Y

50 Hz RP02/RP03/

RPO4

X
NEMA
# -——- NOT NEMA
DEC # 12-09010

NOT NEMA
12-11259

’

120v
30A
1-PHASE

HUBBEL
#2811

L21-30P

NEMA

DEC 12-12314

#2810

L21-30R

PDP11/70

(:(' o ()
7

PROCESSOR
PDP 11/70 MEM.
vaxa1/780

POWER

CONTROLLER
861-D

PROCESSOR

12-12315

CP-1968

Figure 2-2

Approved Electrical Plugs and Receptacles

2-6

Installation Constraints

2.1.4

The route from the receiving area to the installation site that the equipment will travel should be studied in
advance to ensure problem-free delivery. Among the considerations are:
«
.
«
»

2.1.5

Height and location of loading doors
Size, capacity, and availability of elevators
Number and size of aisles and doors en route
Bends or obstructions in hallways.

Grounding Requirements

Each cabinet of a DIGITAL computer system is equipped with ground lug terminals that should be connected to
a low-impedance earth ground by No. 4 AWG (5 mm/0.20 in) copper wire or stranded No. 4 AWG welding
cable. A Burndy QA4C-B solderless lug (or equivalent) is recommended for terminating the cable. DIGITAL
supplies a standard grounding conductor with each I/O and memory cabinet.

A steel building beam is an adequate ground in many instances. However, some disk-oriented systems may
require additional connections to earth ground, in addition to the ground leads carried through various signal
~ buses and ground connectors contained within the power cables. The green grounding wire in the power cable
must also be returned to ground, usually through the conduit of the electrical distribution system. Note that the
green wire is not a current-carrying conductor, nor a neutral conductor.

Whenever possible, the system power panel must be either mounted in contact with bare building steel by
bonded joints (Figure 2-3) or connected to the steel by a short length of cable.

BUILDING_

STEEL

Niman
<— POWER PANEL

L <

08-0717

Figure 2-3

Power Panel Grounded To Building Frame

Where neither scheme is possible, a metal area (comprising the power panel, the conduit, and a metal plate) of

at least 1 m? (10 ft?) that is in contact with masonry must be connected to the green ground wire (Figure 2-4).

The connecting wire must not exceed 1.5 m (5 ft) in length and should be at least a No. 12 AWG (2mm).
When two cabinets are bolted together, DIGITAL bonds them electrically with a No. 4 AWG conductor (5

mm/0.20 in) or by several copper mesh straps connected between the cabinet frames.
After the grounding system is installed, it is advisable to take a voltage reading between the cabinet frame and
the nearest grounded object. NBFU No. 70 (published by the National Bureau of Underwriters) provides

further details regarding preferred grounding procedures.

<— POWER PANEL

&S
)

CONCRETE

FLOOR

PLATE

]

‘~

08-0718

Figure 2-4

2.2

Power Panel Grounded To Metal Plate

AC CABLING

Computer equipment requires a power source with a minimum number of voltage and frequency disturbances.

Line voltage disturbances greater than 1/4 cycle (measured at the receptacle during system operation) are
undesirable.
DIGITAL power wiring conforms to Underwriters Laboratories, Inc., Handbook UL No. 478, National
Electrical Code standards, and the type I requirements of the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA 70).

This means that in the United States the wire used as equipment ground is green, or green with a yellow stripe; it
carries no load current (except in emergency), but does carry leakage current. No equipment is permitted to
leave DIGITAL that does not have a grounding connection to its frame.

The grounded conductor is light grey or white. It must not be used to ground equipment. Its purpose is to

conduct current.

2-8

Lines 1, 2, and 3 in a typical 60 Hz power system (Figure 2-5) are represented by black, red, and blue wires,
respectively, and phase rotation is in that order.

CAUTION

Where no grounded wire can be guaranteed, it must
not be assumed. There are some 115 V/60 Hz systems within the United States where neither side of
the line is grounded (115 V 3-phase delta).
MAIN CIRCUIT
BREAKER OR

CUT-OFF CONTACTOR

PHASE A —_

——

—

PHASE B

—

220/240V

3807416V

MAIN SUPPLY

TRANSFORMER

(ONLY SECONDARY SHOWN)

380/

216V

2207240V

PHASE C L
I

NEUTRAL

SAFETY EARTH GROUND

NOTES:

220/240V

I
1 I I | I | I TO THREE

A THE NEUTRAL CONDUCTOR SHOULD BE CONNECTED TO EARTH

~
PHASE
TO SINGLE
L) LOADS PHASE LOADS
(TYPICA
~

SUPPLY
GROUND AT THE MAINSR.
BY LOCAL AUTHORITIES IT MAY ALSO BE

IF REQUIRED
FORME
TRANS
EARTHED AT THE

(TYPICAL)

DISTRIBUTION PANEL(S) AND ELSEWHERE.

B. THE SAFETY EARTH GROUND CONDUCTOR MAY CONSIST OF
ELECTRICAL METALLIC CONDUIT OR

RACEWAY IF APPROVED BY LOCAL AUTHORITIES.

Figure 2-5

Typical 60 Hz Power System

Figure 2-6 shows a typical 50 Hz power system.

e. The type
Two types of power systems can be used to provide power to the NEMA type L14-20R receptacl
sa
comprise
It
Vac.
120/240
)
displaced
180
2-phase
shown in Figure 2-7 is referred to as split-phase (or
exists
Vac
240
legs.
two
the
of
either
and
tap
center
the
center-tapped transformer with 120 Vac between
between the two outside legs.

The 120 Vac exists
The second type (Figure 2-8) is referred to as 3-phase Y (120 displaced) 120/280 Vac. any
two of the outer
between
exists
Vac
208
and
Z),
or
Y,
between neutral and any of the three other legs (X,
ons as the
connecti
Y
and
X
the
shows
2-8
Figure
h
Althoug
Z).
legs (i.e., between X and Y, X and Z, or Y and
two phases used for the receptacle, any two of the three phases shown can be used.

The ground terminal on the L14-ZOR receptacle will normally have a green screw, the neutral terminal will be
white or silver, and the ‘‘hot’’ terminal will be brass covered.

2-9

MAIN CIRCUIT
BREAKER OR
PHASE A

/|\

|
|
[

208V

120V

MAIN SUPPLY

TRANSFORMER

CUT-OFF CONTACTOR

PHASE B /:-\
|

{

(ONLY SECONDARY SHOWN)

208V

120V

:
|

PHASE ¢

NEUTRAL

FRAME GROUND

NOTES:
A.

120V
§

NEIERIRRE
—

TO SINGLE

;BiPTsuTTRfX\NLSgggaLEJSTOR SHOULD BE GROUNDED AT THE MAINS

PHASE

(TYPICAL )

LOADS

THREE

LOADS

(TYPICAL)

AND IF REQUIRED BY LOCAL AUTHORITIES AT THE DISTRIBUTION

PANEL AND ELSEWHERE.
B.

PHASE

‘

THE FRAME GROUND CONDUCTOR MAY CONSIST OF ELECTRICAL
METALLIC CONDUIT OR

RACEWAY IF APPROVED BY LOCAL AUTHORITIES.

maee

Figure 2-6

| POWER LINE

TRANSFORMER

Typical 50 Hz Power System

| POWER LINE

TRANSFORMER

120V

1 ' 120V
NN
208V

WHITE

240V | OR GRAY

120V

WSIRT E

\l/

I N

12o\,

GREEN

SAFETY GROUND

(A) 120/240V SPLIT-PHASE (TWO PHASE)

GREEN

G
Y

2.3

SAFETY GROUND

l— e eome— e ‘——J
(B) 120/208V THREE PHASE

Figure 2-7

GREY

Split Phase (2-phase) Power System

Figure 2-8

11-2294

Three Phase Y Power System

INSTALLATION - GENERAL

The controller should be installed first, followed by the drive(s). Next, the diagnostics should be run to
demonstrate that the subsystem is functioning properly or to diagnose any problems. Paragraph 2.4 explains the

installation of the RL11 Controller, Paragraph 2.5 deals with the RLV11 and Paragraph 2.6 describes RL8A

installation.

Paragraph 2.7 contains instructions to install the unit and Paragraph 2.8 explains acceptance testing and
contains separate paragraphs for each of the three controllers. Paragraph 2.9 describes the use of the M9312

bootstrap module that may be used on RL11-based systems.
2.4

RL11 CONTROLLER INSTALLATION

The RLI1 Controller (M7762) is a single hex-height module that is installed in a hex-height SPC slot.
Connector JI connects the controller to the drive bus (Figure 2-9).

2-10

Of the 21 jumpers on the RL11 Controller, five are used for factory test purposes. The remaining 16 are for
address selection:

W1-W6
W7-W16

VECTOR ADDRESS (160)
BASE ADDRESS (774400)
NOTE

A logical one is represented by the presence of a

jumper wire.

The Unibus priority plug sets the priority for bus requests. For the RL11 subsystem, bus requests are at priority
level 5 (BR5/BGS5). (See Figures 2-10 and 2-11.)

NOTE

Adjustments on the RL11 are preset at the factory
and are not to be changed in the field.
VECTOR ADDRESS SCHEME

0) l 0

;

26 I 25 24 23 l 22 21 20

217 216 215:214 213 212| 211 210 29 I 28

)

923 | 22

0 I 0

1 | 1

X X | X W1 W3| W,s Ws Wsl| W, X X
X X X IX X l
|
|
|
0

160 - Wa, Wa Ws JUMPERS IN

FOR VECTOR ADDRESS

W1, W2, We JUMPERS OUT

BASE ADDRESS SCHEME

|
|
4
|
.
7
S
|
|
|
|
218I 217 216 215| 214 213 212' 211 210 29| 28
|

00 R I
| X

B
X X

| X
|

1
X

26 | 25

O
0
o1
o
1|1
W12| Wie Wis W14| W; Wsg Wy

.
27

:
|

O
O0
0O 0jJ
X
X
11 Wio Wyzp X

FOR BASE ADDRESS 774400 - W,,, W;s, W; JUMPERS IN
Wi, Wg, Wi, Wi1, Wi, Wig, W5, JUMPERS OUT

NOTE:

X'S DENOTE DON'T CARE (NOT SELECTABLE)
1'S DENOTE JUMPER IN

CZ-2004

O'S DENOTE JUMPER OUT
Figure 2-10

RLI11 Base And Vector Address Jumper Configuration

2-13

—

16
151413121110 9
0 0
©
00
0

0b8o0dod
1

PRIORITY JUMPER PLUG FOR
BUS REQUEST LEVEL FIVE (5)

PLUG PIN NUMBER

SIGNAL NAME

UNIBUS PIN

‘BG IN

BG OUT

UBBG 4

DT2

UBBG4IN .

DS2

UBBGS5

DR2

UBBG 5 IN

UBBG 6

DN2

UBBG 6 IN

DM2

UBBG 7

DL2

UBBG7IN

UB BR 4

DD2

UBBR 5

DE2

UBBR6

DF2

UB BR 7

DP2

DK2

DH2
MA-0560

Figure 2-11

RLI11 Priority Jumper Assembly Connections

To 1nstall the controller:
1.

Remove the M7762 module from its shipping container and examine it for any physical damage.

If a priority level other than 5 is required, obtain an appropriate priority jumper assembly or set up

the priority jumper assembly (item 1, Figure 2-9) using Figure 2-11

as a guide. The vector and base
address jumpers W1-W16 are for 160 and 774400, respectively. If the subsystem configuratio
n
requires other than standard addresses, set the jumpers up as shown in Figure 2-10. Physical
location
of these jumpers is shown on Figure 2-9.
3.

Install the ribbon cable (BCO6R-XX) with the red indicator stripe to the right and the smooth
side
facing the viewer when viewing the component side of the controller as shown in Figure 2-12. Dress

the cable as necessary.

2-14

CAB UPRIGHT (REF)

SEE NOTE 2

(SEE NOTE 1)

SMOOTH SIDE

NOTES:
|

WHEN INSTALLED IN BA11K OR BA11L

RED REF.

EXPANSION BOX, BCO6R CABLE (ITEM #3)

STRIPE

SHOULD BE FOLDED 90° AND ROUTED UP

OUT OF THE BOX AS SHOWN.

WHEN ALTERNATE MOUNTING POSITION
IS USED CONNECTOR IN TRANSITION

BRACKET MUST BE INVERTED SO THAT

CABLE FROM

I/0 CABLE FROM DRIVE WILL HANG

> DRIVE (REF)

RED REF. STRIPE

A DOWNWARD POSITION
AS SHOWN.

ITEM #3 THRU ITEM #8 ARE NOT
ASSEMBLED AT THIS POINT BUT ARE
SHIPPED WITH UNIT FOR ASSEMBLY

AT INSTALLATION TIME.
CABLE FROM

DRIVE (REF)

PRIORITY JUMPER ASSY (ITEM #1) TO
BE PLUGGED INTO M7762 AT FINAL ASSY.

2 S—

qb REE. STRIPE
M7762

THE RL11 MODULE (M7762) WILL

JUMPER WIRE FROM CA1 TO CB1 ON

OCCUPY ONE HEX SPC SLOT.

THE SPC BACKPLANE MUST BE
REMOVED AT INSTALLATION.

SMOOTH SIDE

DESCRIPTION

SEE NOTE 5 &6

DWG PART NO.

ITEM NO.

2 SCREW, PHL TRS HD. #10-32 X .50 LG

9006073-03

2 NUT, SPRING #10-32

9007786-00

1 SCREW, TAP-TLTE, #8 X .38 LG

9006418-01

1 CLAMP, CABLE

9007083-00

1 TRANSITION BRACKET ASSY

C-AD-7012415-0-0

D-UA-BCO6R-06

D-UA-M7762-0-0

5408778

" 1 CABLE ASSY
1 RL11 CONTROLLER

1 PRIORITY JUMPER ASSY

CZ-2005

Figure 2-12

RL11 Controller Installation

2-15

Insert the controller into its appropriate slot in the SPC backplane as shown in Figure 2-12 after
ensuring that the slot does not contain a grant continuity module in row D. Do not chafe the ribbon
cable. Route the cable up and out to the rear of the cabinet, allowing for cable strain relief.
NOTE

See Appendix A for configuration rules and SPC slot
selection considerations.
5.
6.

Remove the jumper between CA1 and CB1, (NPR Grant) on the backplane, if the jumper exists.
Install the transition bracket at the rear of the cabinet shown in Figure 2-12. Assemble and install
transition connector.

Connect the other end of the ribbon cable (BCO6R-XX) with the red indicator stripe on the top. Use
Figure 2-12 as a guide.

Apply system power and, using a suitable measuring device (i.e., digital voltmeter or equivalent),
verify the voltages are within the ranges specified below.

VOLTAGE

RANGE

GROUND

+5 VDC

+4.75 TO

TEST POINT
AC2

+5.25 VDC

AA2

BACKPLANE

+15 VDC

+14.25 TO +15.75 VDC

CV1

LOCATION

—15 VDC

~15.75 TO —14.25 VDC

CB2

Measure all voltages between the ground test point and the appropriate voltage test point. If any
adjustments to the power supply are necessary, refer to the appropriate manual.

2.5

RVL11 CONTROLLER INSTALLATION

An RLV11 Controller is comprised of a bus interface module (M8014) and the drive bus module (M8013).
Each module has switches, jumpers, trimpots, and connectors that are explained in the following paragraphs.

2.5.1

Bus Interface Module

The bus interface module (M8014) contains the logic circuits that perform the following major functions:
«

LSI-11 bus interface functions

Programmable registers

Silo data storage and control circuits

An 1llustration of the component side of M8014 is shown in Figure 2-13. The location of the bus address
switches, the vector address switches, and the connector finger assignments are shown in this figure.
The bus address switch is used to set up the device base address. It is normally factory preset to 7440. This
means the device CS register has an address of 174400 and the MP register has an address of 174406. The

switches have the ON and OFF positions labeled. The ON position is the logical 1 or true state (Figure 2-14).
The vector address switch 1s used to select the address of the vector for this device when it interrupts. It is

factory preset for an address of 160 (Figure 2-15).

2-16

RLV11 BUS INTERFACE MODULE (M8014)
COMPONENT SIDE 1

MSB [—
BUS ADDRESS SWITCH

LSB
MSB

VECTOR SWITCH
LSB

]

A
A
CZ-2006

Figure 2-13

RLV11 Bus Interface Module

(M8014) (Component Side)

E23<

1
'
HARDWIRED

2 15

7
1 214

LOGIC ELEMENT

11
210
29 | 28 8 27 27 2 26
21121029

e———BASE. ADDRESS

2131

212

100

O 0 0

[«————BINARY VALUE

10|

6 5 4

fe——SWITCH NUMBER

594 2 93
2°24

MSB

LSB

*FOR EACH 0" SET THE CORRESPONDING SWITCH “OFF"”

FOR EACH “1" SET THE CORRESPONDING SWITCH “ON"
USE THIS SCHEME TO SELECT THE APPROPRIATE BASE
ADDRESS IF A DIFFERENT BASE ADDRESS IS REQUIRED
‘
Figure 2-14

RLVI11 Base Address Switch Settings

CZ-2034

E22e

VECTOR

24 23

o0 1|1

BINARY VALUE
SWITCH NUMBER

ADDRESS ——=

LOGIC ELEMENT

HARDWIRED
o |o o I

MSB

FOR EACH “0” SET THE CORRESPONDING SWITCH “OFF”

FOR EACH “1” SET THE CORRESPONDING SWITCH “ON”
USE THIS SCHEME TO SELECT THE APPROPRIATE
VECTOR ADDRESS IF A DIFFERENT VECTOR
ADDRESS IS REQUIRED
Figure 2-15

2.5.2

CZ-2007
RLVI11 Vector Address Switch Settings

Drive Module

The drive module (M8013) contains the circuitry that performs the following major functions:
»

Data formatting and error detecting circuits

Control microsequencer and timing circuits

Drive bus interface

An illustration of the component side of M8013 is shown in Figure 2-16.
NOTE

Adjustments to the RLV11 are preset at the factory
and are not to be adjusted in the field.

2.5.3

Module Slot Location
|
Modules M8013 and M8014 must be inserted into the H9273 backplane (Figure 2-17) such that the M8013
module is in the slot closest to the processor. Outside of this one restriction, the two modules can be inserted in
any two unused slots. The controller priority level is based solely on its electrical distance from the

microprocessor module in slot 1.
2.5.4

Module Installation

Using the normal configuration rules, select two adjacent slots in the backplane for the two
controller modules.

Insert the ribbon cable (BCO6R-XX) into J1 on the M8013 with the red stripe edge toward the top

Insert the M8013 module into the selected slot that is closest to the processor.

Examine the M8014 to insure that the base address switches and the vector address switches are set

(Row A) of the module.

correctly. Check jumpers W1 thru W4 for correctness. See Figures 2-14, 2-15 and 2-16.

2-18

]

VCO POT

CABLE CONNECTOR TO DRIVE

RLV11 DRIVE MODULE (M8013)
COMPONENT SIDE 1
JUMPERS W2 AND W4 IN PLACE FOR EPROM USE (PART #058B7)

JUMPERS W1 AND W3 IN PLACE FOR MASKED ROM USE (PART #23017E2)
Vc\]/1

EA MU
ROM

l:l

[:]

W4 W3

OR
EPROM L)

“l

NOTE:

CZ-2008

JUMPERS ARE ZERO OHM COMPOSITION RESISTORS
Figure 2-16

—&>
oo

PROCESSOR MODULE

—-—

HIGHEST PRIORITY

| comesss

| e

epoon

ez
T
s

R
D |
D

eSS

cooecin

RLV11 Drive Module (M8013)

LOWEST PRIORITY

(MODULE SIDE VIEW OF 9 SLOT BACKPLANE)
MA-0566

Figure 2-17

H9273 Backplane Grant Priority Structure

2-19

Insert the M8014 module next to the M&013.

Install the transition bracket at the rear of the cabinet as shown in Figure 2-12. Assemble and install
the transition connector.

Connect the other end of the ribbon cable with the red stripe up.

Apply system power and, using a suitable measuring device (i.e., digital voltmeter or equivalent),
verify that the voltages are within the ranges specified below.

VOLTAGE

RANGE

TEST POINT

+4.75 Vdc to +5.25 Vdc
+11.5 Vdc to +12.5 Vdc
—5.25 Vdc to —4.75 Vdc

AA2
AD?2
ALl (M8013 only)

Ground

AC2

+5 Vdc
+12 Vdc
—5 Vdc

NOTE
The —5 Vdc is generated on the M8013 module. It is
not adjustable but must be within specifications for
proper operation. Module replacement is the only
corrective procedure.
Measure all voltages between the ground test point and the appropriate voltage test point. If any
adjustments to the power supply are necessary, refer to the appropriate manual.
2.6

RL8-A CONTROLLER INSTALLATION

2.6.1

Introduction

The RL8-A Omnibus controller module (M8433) contains the following logic functions:
*

Interface logic

Programmable registers

Silo data storage and control

Data formatting and error detection

*
*

Control microsequencer and timing logic
Drive bus interface logic
:

NOTE

Adjustments on the RL8-A are preset at the factory
and are not to be changed in the field.
2.6.2

Module Slot Location

The module can be inserted into any unused Omnibus hex-height slot between the CPU and the first memory

element. The controller is connected to the first drive via a BC80J-20 interface cable. Connections between
drives are made using a BC20J-XX (70-12122-10) cable.
2.6.3

Module Installation
1.

Remove the M8433 module (see Figure 2-18) and interface cable (BC80J-20) from the shipping
container and inspect them for physical damage.

2-20

E133
ROM

M8433

RL8A
DISK CONTROLLER
.Vlfz

w7
W8
W9

fle

Tle ]
CZ-2030

Figure 2-18

2-21

RL8-A Jumpers

Verity the proper jumper configuration for device codes and priority (Figure 2-18).

Device Code

60,61
62,63

IN
IN

OuUT
IN

Break Priority

OouT

OouT
IN

IN
OouT

NOTE
RL8-A is shipped from the factory with a priority of 0.
Device Type

RLO1

OuT

RLO2

~IN

OuUT

ROM Type (E133)

W10

W11

Wé

012E2
8708 or 2708

OouT
IN

IN
OuUT

IN
OouT

OouT

Position the BC80J-20 interface-to-drive cable in the PDP-8 chassis and connect the Berg connector
to the M8344 module.

2.7

Install the M8344 module into selected slot in the Omnibus backplafie.

Route the cable out to where the first drive will be installed.

RLO01/RL02 DISK DRIVE INSTALLATION

2.7.1

Unpacking and Inspection
1.

When delivered, each drive and its associated cabinetry are enclosed by a heavy cardboard carton
and attached to a shipping skid (Figure 2-19). Remove the plastic straps that secure the shipping

carton to the skid.

Remove the lid from the top of the carton.

Remove the staples that fasten the wooden crating slats and carton flanges to the skid.

Remove the shipping carton.

Inspect the cabinet and drive for signs of damage. Retain all packing material and receipts in the
event that any claims for shipping damage must be filed. All claims should be filed promptly with
the transportation company.

2-22

FULL TELESCOPE CAP

(9905446)

5-PANEL FOLDER

(9905975)

CRATING SLAT

(7606858)

CUSHIONED
SHIPPING SKID

J LN

STAPLES

114979

Figure 2-19

2.7.2

H950 Shipping Package

RLO01/RL02 Disk Drive Unit Mounting
NOTE

If the RLO1/RL02 is to be mounted in an H950
cabinet, the shipping brackets must be retained and
refitted after installation. This is the only way to
prevent the drive from sliding while reposmomng or
moving the H950 cabinet.

The drive may be shipped in a rack or cabinet as an integral part of a system or may be shipped in a separate

container for addition to an existing system.

2-23

If the drive is to be installed in an existing rack or cabinet, install the chassis slides first as described in Steps 1
through 6 below (Figure 2-20). The procedure for installing the drive itself begins with Step 7.
1.

Install cabinet stabilizers before mounting the drive.

Remove the slides from the disk drive. (Retain the hardware for reassembly.)

Install slides into the rack
or cabinet using enclosed hardware. Be sure the slides are at the correct
height to permit installation of pop panels (dress panels) upon completion of installation. Also verify
that the slides do not bind on any hardware used to mount the slide.
Extend slides to lock position.

Slide drive onto chassis slides and reinstall security mounting hardware.
Ensure that the disk drive moves easily on the slides, that there is no binding in the cabinet, and that
the proper height has been maintained for dress panels.
Open the drive access cover.

NOTE
There is a safety interlock in the RL0O1 and RL02
Disk Drives that locks the drive access cover when

the drive has no power. The manual release to
bypass this interlock is located on the right side of
the drive under a small access cover (Figure 2-21).
Remove the cover to reach the solenoid. Pull down
on the solenoid and operate the top release
mechanism at the same time to open the drive access

cover. After the drive access cover is open, replace
the solenoid cover.
Loosen the head restraining bracket screw located on the positioner. Turn the bracket 90 degrees and
retighten the screw (Figure 2-21).

On newer drives there are two shipping screws on the bottom of the unit that secure the spindle/
blower motor. Remove the screws.

10.

If the drive is being installed in a dual-drive cabinet that has an interlock system to prevent more than
one drive being extended at a time, ensure that it is connected.

11.

Inspect the terminal block covers at the rear of the drive. Ensure that they are configured properly for
the input power available (Figure 2-22).

CAUTION
Connection to the wrong power source will result in
serious damage to the disk drive.
12.

If there is only one disk drive in the system, or if this is the last drive of the daisy chain, install a
terminator assembly (DIGITAL part no. 70-12293) in the ‘‘cable out’’ location at the rear of the

drive (Figure 2-22).
13.

If this is an RL11- or an RLV11-based system, route the I/O cable BC20J-XX (DIGITAL part no.
70-12122-10) between the first drive and the transition connector. If this is an RL8-A-based system,
route the BC80J-20 cable from the RL8A to the first drive.

2-24

SEE

{

DETAIL

LOCKING LATCH

000000\

Juaaooaabi\
3

19 |

ACCESS SLOT

’

SLIDE EXTENSION
RELEASE CATCH

MA-1581

Figure 2-20

RLO1/RLO0O2 Cabinet Installation

2-25

POSITIONER
FRONT VIEW:

I R,

=
POSITIONER

RESTRAINING
BRACKET

j‘
N

LATCH

SOLENOID
ACCESS COVER

CZ-2003

Figure 2-21

RLOI/RLO2 - Covers Removed

2-26

170 CABLE

(“CABLE IN")

TERMINATOR

NORMAL/LOW
LINE VOLTAGE

TERMINAL BLOCK
COVER

CABLE “OUT"

110/220 VOLTS
TERMINAL
BLOCK COVER

AC LINECORD

CIRCUIT BREAKER
CZ-1056

Figure 2-22

RLOI/RLO2 Disk Drive-Rear View

14 If this is a multidrive installation, connect an I/O cable from ‘‘cable in’" of this drive to the ‘‘cable
out’’ connector of the previous drive. Repeat for each drive.

NOTE

The total length of cable from controller to the last
drive must not exceed 30 m (100 ft).

15. Install the proper unit select plug at the front of the drive (Figure 2-23).
2.7.3

Drive Prestartup Inspection

To begin the inspection procedure, remove the top cover by loosening the captive screws and lifting the cover
straight up. Rest the cover on the rear of the drive (Figure 2-24). With the drive power off and controller power
on, follow these steps.

NOTE

If a problem occurs, consult the RLO1/RL02 Techni-

cal Manual.

1. Ensure that the positioner restraining bracket is not interfering with the positioner (Figure 2-21).
2. Ensure that the positioner is home.
3. Ensure that the read/write head gimbels are not bent or dirty. (If they are dirty, clean with a solution
of 91 percent alcohol and 9 percent water and a lint-free wiper.

2-27

Ensure that the spindle rotates freely and its top surfaces are not dirty. (Clean as described above).

Ensure that the brush assembly is home (not exposed).

Ensure that the logic modules and connectors are seated firmly.

Turn CB1 ON.

Ensure that the spindle rotates slowly counterclockwise for approximately 15 seconds and stops. At
this time, the LOAD light will come on.

Ensure that the FAULT light is not on.

10.

Ensure that the muffin fan at the rear of the drive is operating.

N
LOAD SWITCH
AND INDICATOR
UNIT SELECT PLUG
AND READY INDICATOR

FAULT
INDICATOR

WRITE PROTECT SWITCH
AND INDICATOR
CZ-1005

Figure 2-23

RLO1/RLO02 Disk Drive-Front View

2-28

DRIVE LOGIC

|‘ “

MODULE

SERVO MODUL
A.C

R/W

ESS

MODULE

D.C.SERVO MODULE
AND TEMPLATE

Figure 2-24

MA-0564

RLO1/RL02 Disk Drive-Exposed Drive Logic Module

Using a suitable measuring device (i.e., digital voltmeter or equivalent), ensure the following drive
voltages are within the specified tolerances.

Voltage

Range

Test Point

+ 15UNREG
—15UNREG
+5REG

(+15.0 to +18.0 Vdc)
(—15.0 to —18.0 Vdc)
(+4.85 to +5.35 Vdc)

+VUNREG
—VUNREG
TP8

+8REG
—8REG

(+7.7 to +8.3 Vdc)
(=7.7 to —8.3 Vdc)

TP4
TPS

See Figure 2-24 for dc servo module location. Test points are located on the mask covering the dc
servo module.

2-29

12.

Verity that the WRITE PROTect switch cycles in and out and the indicator lights up when the switch

1s pressed.

2.7.4

13.

Verty that the LOAD switch cycles in and out and the indicator light goes out when the switch is
pressed. Return switch to the ‘‘out’” position.

14.

Turn off CBI.

15.

Reinstall the top cover and secure with the captive screws.

16.-

Ensure that the drive access cover cannot be opened.

1'7.

Turn CB1 on and ensure the drive access cover will open.

Drive Startup Operation Check

1. With the drive power ON, install a sératch cartridge as described in Paragraph 3.3.
2. Close the cover, press the LOAD switch and ,noté that:

. The LOAD light goes-out
*

When the cartridge reaches nominal speed (after approximately 30 seconds), a brush cycle

commences. When the brushes have returned home, the read/write heads will load and approach

cylinder 0. When the heads have locked onto cylinder 0, the READY light will illuminate. The
total time for this process is approximately 45 seconds.

Press the LOAD switch again. The READY light should go off and the read/write heads should
retract to their home position. The spindle should slow down and then come to a complete stop after
about 30 seconds. The LOAD light should illuminate when the spindle has stopped.

If the drive startup operation check detailed above is successfully completed (i.e., the READY
indicator illuminates), run the subsystem confidence tests described in Paragraph 2.8. If there is a

problem, consult the RLOI/RLO2 Technical Manual.

2.8

CONFIDENCE TESTING
Confidence testing consists of running the diagnostic programs. Each diagnostic has a listing that contains

operating instructions. Each listing explains system hardware requirements, software environment, which
features are tested and how they are tested, program options and how to select them, how to interpret printouts,
error handling, device information tables, dialogue with the Diagnostic Supervisor, and complete operating

instructions. The listings are available as hard copy printouts or on microfiche.

The binary form of the diagnostic programs are available on various media. It is always advisable to keep a copy

-of the RLO1/RLO02 diagnostics on a media other than the RLO1K or RLO2K cartridge so that the diagnostics can
be loaded through another device if the RL subsystem is down.

The old MAINDEC naming system is being replaced with a new naming system. Manual and microfiche
designations are also being converted. In addition, part numbers are being assigned that conform to DIGITAL’s
standard part numbering system.

2-30

or index for the
When ordering diagnostic media, listings, manuals, or microfiche, check the current catalog
e specified
otherwis
Unless
2-3.
latest revision level. The applicable catalogs and indexes are listed in Table
when ordering, the latest revision will be shipped.

Table 2-3 Diagnostic Catélogs and Indexes

NAME
PDP-11
PDP- 8
PDP-11
PDP- 8

PART NUMBER
AV-B0O21E-TC
AV-0872B-TA
AH-9026P-MC
AH-6572G-MA

Diagnostic Software Components CatalogueTM
Software Components Catalogue*
MAINDEC Index (microfiche)
MAINDEC Index (microfiche)

* Note—Both of these catalogs are available on microfiche (EP-08/11DC-02).
RL11-Based Diagnostics

of the RLO2 consisted of the six
The diagnostic package used for an RL1 1/RLO1 subsystem before the release
free-standing programs listed in Table 2-4. There were two revisions, Revision A and Revision B. These

2.8.1

programs handled only RLO1 drives (not RLO2 units).
Table 2-4

RL11-Based Diagnostics

PART NUMBER

DESCRIPTION

CZRLAAO
CZRLBAO
CZRLCAO
CZRLDAO
CZRLEAO
CZRLFAO

Controller Test Part 1
Controller Test Part 2
Drive Test Part 1
Drive Test Part 2
Performance Exerciser
Drive Compatibility Test

tic Supervisor, manually under XXDP,
These diagnostics can be run free-standing, under the Diagnos
g
chainable under XXDP (except CZRLFAO which requires manual intervention), or under manufacturin
.
checkout environments such as SLIDE or ACT-11

s are listed in
A new diagnostic package is available to test either an RLO1 or an RLO2 unit. The kit number
|

2.5 and the contents of the tests are shown in Table 2-6.

Table

It is used to read the Bad Sector File and can
There is a new program added to the package named CZRLMAGO.
Sector File. This program is not a diagnostic
be used to write entries into the field writable portion of the Bad
is functioning properly.
and should not be used as one. It assumes that the system
Table 2-5

RL11 Diagnostic Kit Numbers

PART NUMBER

DESCRIPTION

7J283-RB
7J283-R7Z

Documentation and Paper Tape
Documentation Only

7J283-PB
7J283-FR

Paper Tape Only
Microfiche Only

‘

2-31

Table 2-6

RIL11 Diagnostic Components

PART NUMBER

NAME

ITEM

AC-F111A-MC

CZRLGAO CONTROLLER TEST #1

DOCUMENTATION

AH-F110A-MC

FICHE

AK-F108A-MC

PAPER TAPE #1

AK-F109A-MC

PAPER TAPE #2

AF-FI111A-MO

AC-F115A-MC

DECO

CZRLHAO CONTROLLER TEST #2

AH-F114A-MC

FICHE

AK-F112A-MC

PAPER TAPE #1

AK-F113A-MC

PAPER TAPE #?2

AF-F115A-M0O

AC-F119A-MC

DECO

CZRLIAO DRIVE TEST #1

AH-F118A-MC

PAPER TAPE #1

AK-F117A-MC

PAPER TAPE #?2

AF-F119A-MO

DECO
CZRLJAO DRIVE TEST #?2

AH-F122A-MC

PAPER TAPE #1

AK-FI121A-MC

PAPER TAPE #?2

AF-F123A-MO

DECO
CZRLKAO PERFORMANCE EXERCISER

AH-F126A-MC

PAPER TAPE #1

AK-FI125A-MC

PAPER TAPE #2

AF-F127A-M0O

DECO

CZRLLAO DRIVE COMPATIBILITY TEST

AH-F130A-MC

DOCUMENTATION
FICHE

AK-F128A-MC

PAPER TAPE #1

AK-FI129A-MC

PAPER TAPE #2

AF-F131A-MO

AC-F135A-MC

DOCUMENTATION

FICHE

AK-F124A-MC

AC-F131A-MC

DOCUMENTATION
FICHE

AK-F120A-MC

AC-F127A-MC

DOCUMENTATION
FICHE

AK-F116A-MC

AC-FI123A-MC

DOCUMENTATION

DECO

CZRLMAO BAD SECTOR FILE UTILITY

AH-F134A-MC

DOCUMENTATION
FICHE

AK-F132A-MC

PAPER TAPE#1

AK-F133A-MC

PAPER TAPE #2

AF-F135A-MO

DECO

In addition to the free-standing diagnostics, there is a DECX11 module for use with the DECX11 System
Exerciser. The current revision is designated RLAA and is in DECX11 Option Library #5 DXQLQ. Revision
A (RLAA) will operate an RLO1 drive only. Revision B (RLAB) will operate either an RLO1 or an RL02.
There is also an RL subsystem driver for the Maintenance Program Generator (MPG).

2-32

The binary form of the diagnostics is included as part of XXDP. This makes them available on media for the
RKO05, RK06, RK07, RLO1, RX01, DECtape, magnetic tape, and DECassette.

The use of XXDP, DECX11, and MPG is explained in the manuals listed in Table 2-7.
User Documents

Table 2-7

PART NUMBER
HARD COPY

PART NUMBER
MICROFICHE

NAME

AC-90931-MC
AC-8240Z-MC
AC-816JC-MC

EP-DZQXA-J-D
AH-82427-MC
EP-DTUMA-C-D

CZQXAIO XXDP USER GUIDE
CXQBAZ0 DECX11 USER DOCUMENT
CTUMACO M.P.G. USER MANUAL

2.8.2

RLVI11-Based Diagnostics

The RLV11 Controller-based subsystem is tested with the same set of diagnostics as the RL11 Controller
subsystem with the following exceptlon The RLV11 has an internal maintenance feature thatis not tested by
the RL11 diagnostics so there is one additional diagnostic program called the CRVLAAOQ Diskless Test. It
should be run first.

The diagnostic kit includes the same items as the RL11 dlagnostlc kit plus the CVRLAAO test. The RLV11 kit

designations are shownin Table 2-8.

Table 2-8

RLV11 Diagnostic Kit Designations

CONTENTS

DESIGNATION

ZJ285-RB

7J285-RZ
7J285-PB
ZJ285-FR

Documentation and Paper Tape

Documentation Only
Paper Tape Only
Microfiche Only

The DECX11 module is the same one used for the RLI11.
2.8.3

RLS8A-Based Diagnostics

There are six free-standing dlagnostlc programs for the RL8/RLO1 system. Thereis also a DECX8 module for
use with the DECX8 system exerciser. These diagnostics are availablein a kit (see Table 2-9) or as individual
components (see Table 2-10) and are for use with RLO1 only.
Table 2-9

RLS8/RL01 Diagnostic Kits

CONTENTS

PART NUMBER

/B233-RB

Documentation and Paper Tape

/ZB233-RZ
/B233-PB

ZB233-FR

Documentation Only
Paper Tape Only

Microfiche

2-33

Table 2-10

RLS8/RL01 Diagnostic Components

PART NUMBER

DESIGNATION

AC-C656A-MA

AJRLAAO, RL8A DISKLESS CONTROL TEST (DOC)
AJRLAAO, RL8A DISKLESS CONTROL TEST (FICHE)

AH-C657A-MA
AK-C658A-MA
AL-C659A-NA

AC-C660A-MA
AH-C661 A-MA
AK-C662A-MA
AL-C663A-NA

AC-C664A-MA
AH-C665A-MA

AK-C666A-MA
AL-C667A-NA
AC-C663A-MA
AH-C669A-MA

AK-C670A-MA
AL-C671A-NA
AC-C672A-MA
AH-C673A-MA

AK-C674A-MA
AL-C675A-NA
AC-C676A-MA
AH-C677A-MA
AK-C678A-MA

AC-C682A-MA
AH-C683A-MA
AK-C684A-MA
AL-C685A-NA

AJRLAAO, RL8A DISKLESS CONTROL TEST (P. TAPE)
AJRLAAO, RL8A DISKLESS CONTROL TEST (DECTAPE)

AJRLBAO, RL8A/RLOI DRIVE TEST 1 (DOCUMENT)
AJRLBAO, RLSA/RLO1 DRIVE TEST 1 (FICHE)
AJRLBAO, RLSA/RLO1 DRIVE TEST 1 (P. TAPE)

AJRLBAO, RL8A/RLO1 DRIVE TEST 1 (DECTAPE)
AJRLCAO, RL8A/RLO1 DRIVE TEST 2 (DOCUMENT)
AJRLCAO, RLSA/RLO1 DRIVE TEST 2 (FICHE)
AJRLCAO, RLSA/RLO1 DRIVE TEST 2 (P. TAPE)
AJRLCAO, RL8A/RLO1 DRIVE TEST 2 (DECTAPE)
AJRLDAO, RLSA/RLOI COMPAT. VERIFY (DOCUMENT)

AJRLDAO, RL8A/RLOI COMPAT. VERIFY (FICHE)
AJRLDAO, RLSA/RLOI COMPAT. VERIFY (P. TAPE)
AJRLDAO, RL8A/RLOI COMPAT. VERIFY (DECTAPE)
AJRLEAO, RLSA/RLO1 PERF. EXER. (DOCUMENT)
AJRLEAO, RLS8A/RLO1 PERF. EXER. (FICHE)
AJRLEAO, RL8A/RLOI PERF. EXER. (P. TAPE)
AJRLEAO, RL8A/RLO1 PERF. EXER. (DECTAPE)
AXRLAAO, RL8A DECX8 MODULE (DOCUMENT)
AXRLAAO, RL8A DECX8 MODULE (FICHE)
AXRLAAO, RL8A DECX8 MODULE (P. TAPE)

AJRLGAO, RL8A/RLOI PACK VERIFY (DOCUMENT)
AJRLGAO, RL8A/RLO1I PACK VERIFY (FICHE)
AJRLGAO, RLSA/RLOI PACK VERIFY (P. TAPE)
AJRLGAO, RL8A/RLOI PACK VERIFY (DECTAPE)

There are six free-standing diagnostic programs for the RL8/RL02 subsystem, plus a module for use with the
DECX8 System Exerciser. They are available in kit form (Table 2-11) or as individual components (Table

2-12). The Diskless Controller Test AJRLACO is simply Revision C of the RLO1 test and can test a subsystem
with either RLO1 or RLO2 units. The other diagnostics test RL02-based systems only.

Table 2-11

PART NUMBER

RLS8/RL02 Diagnostic Kits

CONTENTS

ZF241-RZ

DOCUMENTATION

ZF241-RB

DOCUMENTATION AND PAPER TAPE

ZF241-PB

ZF241-FR

PAPER TAPE

FICHE

ZF241-PH

RLO2

ZF241-RH

RLO2 AND DOCUMENTATION

2-34

Table 2-12

RLS8/RL02 Diagnostic Components

PART NUMBER

NAME

ITEM

AC-C656C-MA

AJRLACO RL8A DISKLESS CONTROL TEST

DOCUMENTATION

AH-C657C-MA
AK-C658C-MA
AL-C659C-NA
AC-F362A-MA
AK-F363A-MA
AH-F364A-MA
AL-F365A-MA

AF-F362A-MO
AC-F366A-MA

AK-F367A-MA
AH-F368A-MA
AL-F369A-MA

AF-F366A-MO

AJRLHAO RL8/RL0O2 SEEK/FUNCTION

AJRLIAO RL8/RL02 READ/WRITE

AC-F370A-MA
AK-F371A-MA
AH-F372A-MA
AL-F373A-MA

AJRLJAO RL&/RL0O2 DRIVE COMPAT

AC-F374A-MA
AK-F375A-MA
AH-F376 A-MA
AL-F377A-MA

AJRLKAO RL8/RL0O2 PERF. EXER.

AC-F378A-MA
AK-F379A-MA
AH-F380A-MA
AL-F381A-MA

AJRLLAO RL8/RL02 PACK VERIFY

AC-F382A-MA
AK-F383A-MA
AH-F384A-MA

AXRLBAO DEC/X8 MOD RL8/RLO2

AF-F370A-MO

AF-F374A-MO

AF-F378A-MO

‘

DECO/DEPO
DOCUMENTATION
PAPER TAPE
FICHE
DEC TAPE

DECO/DEPO

DOCUMENTATION
PAPER TAPE
FICHE
DEC TAPE

DECO/DEPO

DOCUMENTATION
PAPER TAPE
FICHE
DEC TAPE

DEPO/DECO

DOCUMENTATION
PAPER TAPE
FICHE
DEC TAPE

DECO/DEPO

DOCUMENTATION
PAPER TAPE
FICHE

DECO/DEPO

AF-F382A-MO
2.9

FICHE
PAPER TAPE
DEC TAPE
DOCUMENTATION
PAPER TAPE
FICHE
DEC TAPE

USE OF THE M9312 BOOTSTRAP WITH AN RL11 SUBSYSTEM

The M9312 module is used on many PDP-11 Unibus systems to provide bootstrap capability as well as other
functions. The module has five IC sockets for ROM chips, four of which are reserved for peripheral bootstrap
programs. There are several ROM chips available for the different peripheral devices, and an M9312 1is
configured by selecting the appropriate chips for the particular system on which it 1s used.
The RL subsystem bootstrap program is contained in ROM chip number 23-751A9. This chip can be ordered
individually and is also available in kit MR11-EA, which consists of an M9312 module plus all the available
ROM chips.

An RL system disk can be booted by a command to the console emulator (a program that 1s a feature of the
MO9312). The device mnemonic for the RL11 is DL or DLn, where n is the unit number (0 through 3).
More information on the M9312 is available in the M9312 Technical Manual. It is available in printed form
(EK-M9312-TM) or on microfiche (EP-M9312-TM).

2-35

CHAPTER 3

OPERATOR’S GUIDE

3.1

INTRODUCTION

This chapter describes the function of all external controls available to the user of the RL0O1/RLO02 Disk Drive
and explains how to operate the subsystem.

3.2 CONTROLS AND INDICATORS
Figures 3-1 and 3-2 show all the drive controls and indicators.

‘

LOAD SWITCH

AND INDICATOR

UNIT SELECT PLUG

AND READY INDICATOR

FAULT
INDICATOR

WRITE PROTECT SWITCH
AND INDICATOR

Figure 3-1

RLO1/RL02 Disk Drive — Front View

3-1

CZ-1005

/0 CABLE

(“CABLE IN")

TERMINATOR

NORMAL/LOW
LINE VOLTAGE
TERMINAL BLOCK
COVER

CABLE "OUT”

1107220 VOLTS
TERMINAL

BLOCK COVER

AC LINECORD
CIRCUIT BREAKER
CZ-1056

Figure 3-2

3.2.1

RLO1/RL02 Disk Drive — Rear View

Power ON/OFF Circuit Breaker

When the power plug is inserted into the proper ac outlet, ac power is applied to the rear panel circuit breaker on
the drive. When the circuit breaker is switched ON, ac power is applied to the drive and the fan is energized.

3.2.2 Run/Stop Switch with LOAD Indicator
This push on/push off switch, when pressed in, energizes the spindle motor providing the following conditions
have been met.

The RLO1K/RLO2K cartridge has been installed.

The cartridge protective cover is in place and the cartridge access door is closed.

All ac and dc voltages are within specifications.

The read/write heads are home (retracted).

The brushes are home.

When this switch is released, the spindle drive motor is deenergized if the read/write heads are not loaded. If the
heads are loaded, they are immediately retracted and the spindle drive motor is then deenergized. In the event of
a main power interrupt and subsequent power restoration, the drive will cycle up if the switch is ON since it
contains mechanical memory.

3-2

The LOAD indicator is illuminated whenever:
«
«
*

The spindle is stopped
The read/write heads are home
The brushes are home

The spindle drive motor is not energized.

UNIT SELECT Switch with READY Indicator

3.2.3

The UNIT SELECT switch is a cam-operated switch that is actuated by inserting a numbered, cammed button.
The switch contacts are binary encoded so the drive interface logic recognizes the UNIT SELECT number O, 1,
2 or 3).

The UNIT SELECT indicator, when lit, indicates a drive READY condition. This condition exists when:
e
«

The read/write heads are loaded
The heads are detented on a specific track.

3.2.4 FAULT Indicator
The FAULT indicator is lit whenever the following fault or error conditions develop in the disk drive:
Drive Select Error
Seek Time Out Error

Write Current in Heads During Sector Time Error

Loss of System Clock (this condition is not latched and not represented in status word)

Write Protect Error
Write Data Error
Spin Error

NOTE

Volume Check does not light the FAULT Indicator
but does cause DRIVE ERROR.

WRITE PROTECT Switch and Indicator

3.2.5

This push on/push off switch is used to set the WRITE PROTECT condition if it had been reset or to reset the
WRITE PROTECT condition if it had set. The switch unit contains a light that is on when the WRITE
PROTECT condition i1s set.

3.3 OPERATING PROCEDURES

This paragraph explains how to load a cartridge into a disk drive and how to cycle up the drive to put the
subsystem on-line. The cycle-up procedure assumes that ac power is available, the drive ac circuit breaker is on
(muffin fan is energized), system power is on and the LOAD indicator on the drive control panel is on.
Cartridge Loading and Drive Startup Procedure

3.3.1
1.

Raise the drive access cover.

Prepare a cartridge (Figure 3-3) for loading as follows:

Lift the cartridge by grasping the top cover handle with the right hand.

Support the cartridge with the left hand holding the protection cover.

Lower the top cover handle and push the handle slide to the left with the thumb of the right
hand. Again, raise the handle to its full upright position to release the protection cover.
3-3

Lift the cartridge from the protection cover and carefully seat the cartridge on the spindle with
the top cover handle recess facing the rear of the machine.

Caretully rotate the top cover handle back and forth to ensure that the spindle locating arms are
seated properly within the cartridge housing detent slots.

CAUTION
Use care when seating the cartridge on the drive
spindle. Rough handling of the cartridge may cause
damage to the spindie/cartridge interface which, in
turn, can cause excessive cartridge runout and pos-

itioning errors.
Gently lower the top cover handle to a horizontal position to engage the cartridge on the drive

spindle.

Place the protection cover on top of the cartridge.
Close the drive access cover.
3.

Start the drive as follows.

Press the run/stop switch (LOAD indicator).
When the drive has completed the drive startup sequence and the read/write heads are detented
on cylinder 0, the READY indicator on the numbered UNIT SELECT switch will be
tlluminated.
C.

3.3.2

It write protection is desired, press the WRITE PROTECT switch.

Cartridge Unloading Procedure
1.

Power down the drive as follows.
a.

Press the run/stop switch and wait approximately 30 seconds for the LOAD indicator to

illuminate.

b.
2.

Raise the drive access cover.

Remove the cartridge as follows.
a.

Remove the cartridge protection cover and hold the cover in the left hand.

Push the top cover handle slide to the left with the thumb before raising the handle.

Raise the top cover handle to a full uprighf position to release the cartridge from the drive
spindle.
|
Carefully lift the cartridge up and out of the drive and place it in the protection cover.
Lower the top cover handle to the horizontal position to lock the protection cover in place.

3-4

TO READY DRIVE:

DRIVE INDICATORS:

LOAD:

RAISE CARTRIDGE ACCESS DOOR
LOAD CARTRIDGE

CLOSE ACCESS DOOR
DEPRESS RUN/STOP SWITCH (LOAD INDICATOR)
AFTER 30 SECONDS, UNIT SELECT INDICATOR

SHOULD LIGHT INDICATING DRIVE IS READY
TO READ OR WRITE
IF WRITE PROTECTION IS DESIRED, DEPRESS

WRITE PROTECT SWITCH (PROTECT INDICATOR)

TO LOAD CARTRIDGE:

LIGHTS TO INDICATE THAT CARTRIDGE

SUPPORT CARTRIDGE “A” WITH LEFT HAND

MAY BE LOADED OR THAT SPINDLE IS

HOLDING PROTECTION COVER “B".

STOPPED.
UNIT

SELECT:

INDICATES LOGICAL DRIVE ADDRESS.
WHEN LIT, INDICATES DRIVE IS

READY TO READ, WRITE OR RECEIVE

CONTROLLER COMMANDS.
FAULT:

WHEN LIT, INDICATES A DRIVE
ERROR CONDITION. IF THIS

CONDITION PERSISTS, SEEK
ASSISTANCE.

PUSH HANDLE SLIDE “C” TO LEFT WITH
THUMB OF RIGHT HAND.
RAISE COVER HANDLE “D” TO FULL UPRIGHT
POSITION, RELEASING PROTECTION COVER “B".
LIFT CARTRIDGE “A” FROM PROTECTION COVER
“B” AND CAREFULLY SEAT IT ON DRIVE SPINDLE
WITH HANDLE RECESS FACING REAR OF DRIVE.

CAREFULLY ROTATE TOP COVER HANDLE “D”
A FEW DEGREES CLOCKWISE AND COUNTER-

CLOCKWISE TO ENSURE FIRM SEATING.

WRITE
PROTECT:

GENTLY LOWER TOP COVER HANDLE “D” TO

WHEN LIT, INDICATES THAT

HORIZONTAL POSITION TO ENGAGE CARTRIDGE

CARTRIDGE CURRENTLY MOUNTED

ON DRIVE SPINDLE.

IS WRITE PROTECTED.
PLACE PROTECTION COVER “B” ON TOP OF

CARTRIDGE.

CZ-2032

Figure 3-3

Cartridge Loading Procedure

3.5

3-6

3.4

OPERATOR MAINTENANCE
Introduction

3.4.1

User maintenance procedures are limited to the care and cleaning (external) of the disk cartridge; and the

cleaning of the drive spindle assemblies.

Professional Cartridge Cleaning

3.4.2

Cartridges should be professionally cleaned every six months, or whenever practical. Complete cartridge
cleaning procedures must be performed by either qualified DIGITAL Field Service personnel or by da
professional cleaning service. Application of cleaning procedures to the recording surfaces by unqualifie
personnel may void not only the warranty on the serviced cartridge, but the warranty for any drive on which the
cartridge is operated.

User Cartridge Cleaning

3.4.3

The user should clean the outer sides of a completely assembled cartridge by using a lint-free wiper, dampened
with a solution of 9 percent water and 91 percent isopropyl alcohol. However, the cartridge must not be
saturated and all excess solvent must be removed with a dry wiper. This procedure is necessary to prevent
solvent from entering the seams of the assembly and contaminating the platter.
CAUTION

For cleaning purposes, use only a solution of 9 percent water with 91 percent isopropyl alcohol.
Water, trichloroethylene, or other solvents are not
permitted.

Spindle Asssembly Cleaning

3.4.4

Using a lint-free wiper, dampened with the isopropyl alcohol solution, clean the spindle cone prior to loading
the cartridge. However, do not saturate the assembly; remove all excess solvent with a dry wiper. This
In
procedure is necessary to prevent solvent from entering a loaded cartridge and contaminating the platter.
dust
and
lint
Dry
cartridge.
a
loading
before
possible
as
dust
and
lint
of
free
as
is
addition, ensure that the shroud
may be blown from the spindle area using filtered, dry air. However, do not use plant air that may contain water
or oil; canned air is an acceptable substitute.
3.5

CARTRIDGE CARE SUMMARY

The following listing summarizes care and cleaning considerations for the RLO1K/RLO2K Disk Cartridge.
«

Keep cartridges clean.

Use cartridges at computer room temperature only.

Manipulate cartridges by the top cover handle only.

When the proteCtion cover is removed (for loading), do not touch disk surfaces, hub center cone, or
surfaces.

» When the protection cover is removed (for loading), interior metal hub surfaces must be clean.

3-7

When the protection cover is removed (for loading), ensure that the disks are not moved or rotated,
since improper disk motion may generate plastic particles which can result in disk damage.

When loading or unloading a drive, insert and remove cartridges gently. In addition, do not use
excessive force when manipulating the top cover handle.

If, during operation, a cartridge makes rumbling or continuous tinging sounds, discontinue use of the
cartridge. Use of a damaged cartridge on other drives may damage the drives, resulting in additional
damage to all other cartridges used in those drives.

Each cartridge should be cleaned professionally every six months and/or whenever a specific cartridge

1s not operating properly

Cartridges are factory-repairable only. Disassembly in the field is not permitted, and such action may

void the warranty on a cartridge, as well as any drive on which the cartridge may be operated.

3-8

CHAPTER 4

RL11/RLV11 PROGRAMMING INFORMATION

4.1

GENERAL DESCRIPTION

This chapter describes the RL11 and RLV11 controllers and points out any differences.
4.1.1

RL11 Controller Description

t small
The RL11 Controller consists of a single hex-height M7762 module. It can be installed in any hex-heigh
PDP-11
the
between
interface
able
peripheral controller (SPC) slot. This controller provides a programm
detailed in
Unibus and the RLO1/RLO02 Disk Drive(s). The controller has four addressable registers that are
s are
command
controller
These
drive.
the
to
s
Paragraph 4.2. The controller can give any one of seven command
explained in detail in Paragraph 4.3.

buffer.
In addition to the registers and control logic, the RL11 Controller contains a sixteen word silotheI/O
and
RL11
between
es
differenc
the
of
one
is
Although the buffer is invisible to the programmer, its capacity
RLV11. The RLV11 has a 256 RAM I/O buffer.
Controller Description

RLV11
controller
The RLV11 Controller consists of 2 quad-height modules designated M3013 and M8014. ThisRLV11ha
s
RL11,the
the
Like
drive(s).
the
and
Q-Bus
provides a programmable interface between the LSI-11
eight
of
one
any
give
can
RLV11
The
4.2.
h
Paragrap
in
four addressable registers that are explained in detail
commands to the drive. The RLV11 has one command (maintenance command) that the RL11 does not have.

4.1.2

These commands are explained in Paragraph 4.3. The RLV11 has a 256 word RAM first in, first out (FIFO) I/O
buffer while the RL11 has a 16 word silo.

4.2

ADDRESSABLE REGISTERS

within
There are four addressable registers in the controller that are used to control and monitor the operation
in
described
and
4-1
Table
in
briefly
described
are
These
unit(s).
drive
disk
the controller itself and within the
detail in the following text.

4.2.1

Control Status Register

The Control Status (CS) register (Figure 4-1) is a 16-bit register with an address of 774400. Bits 1 through 9 can

be read or written; the other bits can only be read.

selected
When the controller is initialized, bits 1-6 and 8-13 are cleared and bit 7 is set. Bit O is set whenever theerror;
it 18
drive is in the ready condition; otherwise, the bit is cleared. Bit 14 is set whenever there is a drive

cleared when the drive error is corrected or the drive error is cleared by a Get Status command. Bit 15 is set
when there is a drive or controller error (indicated in bits 10-14).

Table 4-1

Address|

(octal)

Type

Controller Addressable Registers

| (read/write) | Name/Mnemonic

774400 | R/'W

- Basic Function

Control Status (CS)

Indicates drive ready condition; decodes drive commands and provides overall control functions and error
indications.

774402 | RIW

Bus Address (BA)

Indicates memory location involved in data transfer
during a normal read or write operation.

774404 | R/W

Disk Address (DA)

Stores information for: (1) seeking to desired track; or
(2) selecting sectors to be transferred during read/write
operations; or (3) used when requesting a drive status
message.

774406 | R/W

Multipurpose (MP)

(1) Functions as word counter when transferring read/
write data between Unibus and drives; or (2) acts as
storage buffer when reading drive status; or (3) stores
header information from controller silo when executing
a read header command.

CONTROL STATUS REGISTER (CSR)
15

ERR

DE | NXM| E2

DS1 | DSO |{CRDY| IE |BA17|BA16| F2

FO Dfll;l

READ/WRITE

READ ONLY

READ
ONLY

CZ-2009

Figure 4-1

Bit(s)
0

1-3

Name
Drive Ready

CS Register

Function
When set, this bit indicates that the selected drive is ready to receive a

(DRDY)

command. The bit is cleared when a seek operation is initiated and set when
the seek operation is completed.

Function Code

These bits are set by software to indicate the command to be executed.

Command execution requires that bit 7 (controller ready) be cleared by
software. A zero bit being transferred into bit 7 of the CSR can be considered
as a Go bit.

Bit(s)

Name

1-3

Function Code

(Cont)

Function

F2
0
0
§)
0
|
|
|
1

4-5

Bus Address
Extension Bits

Octal

Command

Code

No Op (RL11) or

0
|
|
0
0
1
1

1
0
|
0
|
0
|

Write Check
Get Status
Seek
Read Header
Write Data
Read Data
Read Data Without

|
2
3
4
5
6
7

Maint. (RLV11)

Header Check

The two most significant bus address bits. Read and written as data bits 4 and
5 of the CS register but considered as address bits 16 and 17 of the bus address

(BA16, BA17)

Interrupt

When this bit is set by software, the controller is allowed to interrupt the

Enable (IE)

processor at the normal command or error termination.

Controller Ready
(CRDY)

When cleared by software, this bit indicates that the command in bits 1-3 is to
be executed. When set, this bit indicates the controller is ready to accept

8-9

Drive Select
(DSO, DS1)

Operation
Incomplete (OPI)

Data CRC (DCRC)
or Header CRC
(HCRC) or Write
Check (WCE)

another command.

These bits determine which drive will communicate with the controller via the
drive bus.

When set, this bit indicates that the current command was not completed
within 200 ms.

If OPI (bit 10) is cleared and this bit is set, a CRC error has occurred when

reading the data (DCRC).

If OPI (bit 10) is set and bit 11 is also set, the CRC error has occurred on the
header (HCRC).

If OPI (bit 10) is cleared and bit 11 is set and the function command was a
write check, a write check error (WCE) has occurred.
NOTE

Cyclic redundancy checking is performed on the first and second header
words, even though the second header word always contains zeros.
12

Data Late (DLT)
or Header Not
Found (HNF)

This bit is set during a write when the silo is empty but the word count has not
yet reached zero (meaning that the bus request was ignored for too long). The
OPI bit will not be set.

This bit will be set during a read when the silo is full (meaning that the word
being read could not enter the silo and the bus request has been ignored for too
Jong). The OPI bit will not be set.

4-3

Bit(s)

Name

Function

Data Late (DLT)

When this bit and OPI are both set, a 200 ms timeout occurred while the

or Header Not

controller was searching for the correct sector to read or write (no header

Found (HNF)

compare — HNF).

(Cont)

ERROR SUMMARY

—_—

Data Late
Header Not Found
13

Non-Existent

Memory (NXM)

—_ O~ 00—

Read Data CRC

Write Check
Header CRC

11
==

OPI

SO~

Error Name

o000 ON

Bits

This bit is set when the addressed memory does not respond within 10 to 20
microseconds of the beginning of a direct memory access (DMA) data
transfer.

Drive Error (DE)

This bit is tied directly to the DE interface line. When set, it indicates that the

selected drive has flagged an error. (The source of the error can be determined

by executing a Get Status command.)
DE can be cleared by executing a Get Status command with bit 3 of the DA

When set, this bit indicates that one or more of ‘the error bits (bits 10-14) 1s set.

Composite Error
(ERR)

4.2.2

If the IE bit (bit 6 of CS) is set and an error occurs (which sets bit 7), an
interrupt will be initiated.

Bus Address Register

The Bus Address (BA) register (Figure 4-2) is a 16-bit register with an address of 774402. Bits 1 through 15 can

be read or written; bit 0 is always zero. Bus address bits 16 and 17 are contained in bits 4 and 5 of the CS register
(see Paragraph 4.2.1).
The BA register indicates the memory location involved in the data transfer during a normal read or write

operation. The contents of the BA register are automatically incremented by two as each word is transferred
between the bus and the I/O buffer. This register overflows into CS register bits 4 and 5.

The BA register is cleared by initializing the drive or by loading the register with zeros.
BUS ADDRESS REGISTER (BAR)
15

BA15|BA14]

BA13|BA12|

10
BA11|BA10|

09
BA9

| BA8 | BA7 | BA6 | BA5 | BA4 | BA3 | BA2 | BA1

\_
—_—

READ/WRITE
Figure 4-2

BA Register

4-4

S
CZ-2035

Bit(s)

Name

Function

0-15

BAQ thru BA15

(normally a memory address). BA16 and BA17 are in CSR bits

to/from
These bits point to the Unibus address that data is to be transferred
4 and 5.

Disk Address Register
of three
r with an address of 774404. Its contents can havetheonedevice
The Disk Address (DA) register is a 16-bit registe
or
izing
initial
by
d
performed. This register is cleare

4.2.3

meanings, depen

ding on the function being

loading the register with zeros. All 16 bits can be read

or written by the processor.

ary to provide
and — To perform a Seek function, it 1s necess
4.2.3.1 DA Register During a Seek Commhead
as indicated
drive
d
selecte
the
to
directional information
cylinder address difference, head select, and
(Figure 4-3).

DAR DURING SEEK COMMAND

DF8 | bDF7 | DF6 | DF5 | DF4 | DF3 DF2 | DF1 | DFO 0 0 HS 0 DIR 0 1 J
CZ-2010

Figure 4-3

Bit(s)

Name

Function

Must be a 1.

Must be a 0.

Direction (DIR)

DAR - Seek Command

place. When the bit 1s
This bit indicates the direction in which a seek is to take
cylinder address). When

set, the heads move toward the spindle (to a higher
the bit is cleared, the heads move away from the spindle (to a lower cylinder
address). The actual distance moved depends on the cylinder address ditference (bits 7-15).

Must be a 0.

Head Select (HS)

Indicates which head (disk surface) is selected. A one indicates the lower

5-6

Reserved.

7-15

Cylinder Address

Difference
DF 08:00

head; a zero, the upper head.

Indicates the number of cylinders the heads are to move on a seek.

nd — For a read or write operation, the DA
4.2.3.2 DA Register During Read or Write Data Comma
register is loaded with the address of the first sector to be transferred. As each successive sector 1s transferred,
the DA register is automatically incremented (Figure 4-4).
4-5

DAR DURING READING OR WRITING DATA COMMANDS
15

CA8 | CA7 CA6‘ CA5 | CA4 | CcA3 CA2 | CA1 | CAO|

HS | SA5 | SA4 | SA3 | SA2 | SA1

SA;I
CZ-2011

Figure 4-4

Bit(s)

Read/Write Data Command

Name

Function

Sector Address

Address of one of the 40 sectors on a track.

0-5

SA 05:00

Head Select (HS)

Indicates which head (disk surface) is to be selected. A one indicates the lower
head; a zero, the upper head.

7-15

Cylinder Address

CA 08:00

~ Address of the cylinders being accessed. (Range is 0 through 777, octal)

4.2.3.3 DA Register During a Get Status Command — For a Get Status command, the DA re gister bits must
be programmed as follows (Figure 4-5):
DAR DURING GET STATUS COMMAND
15

RST

1‘I
CZ-2037

Figure 45 DAR - Get Status Command
Bit(s)

Name

Function

Must be a 1.

]

Get Status (GS)

Must be a 1, indicating to the drive that the status word is being requested. At
the completion of the Get Status command, the drive status word is read into

the controller Multipurpose (MP) register (see Paragraph 4.2.4). With this bit
set, the drive ignores bits 8-15.

Must be a 0.

Reset (RST)

When this bit is set, the drive clears its error register before sending a status
word to the controller.

4-77

Must be a 0.

8-15

Not used during a Get Status.

4-6

Multipurpose Register

4.2.4

The multipurpose (MP) register is a 16 bit register with an address of 744406. This register has several different

bit meanings, as explained below.

4.2.4.1 MP Register After a Get Status Command — When a Get Status command (Figure 4-6) is executed
the status word is returned to the controller and transferred to the MP register. The contents of the MP register
|

are defined as follows.

MPR AFTER GET STATUS COMMAND

WDE | CHE|

wL |SKTO| SPE |WGE | VC

DSE | DT

STC | STB | STA

CZ-2012

Figure 4-6

MPR - Status Word

Bit(s) ~

Name

Function

0-2

State C:A

These bits define the state of the drive.

ST C:A

C
0
0
0
0
1
1
1
1

B
0
0
1
1
0
0
|
|

A
0
1
0
1
0
1
0
1

Load Cartridge
Spin Up
Brush Cycle
Load Heads
Seek
Lock On
Unload Heads
Spin Down

Brush Home (BH)

Set when the brushes are home.

Heads Out (HO)

Set when the heads are over the disk.

Cover Open (CO)

Set when the drive access cover is open or the dust cover 1S not in place.

Head Select (HS)

Indicates the currently selected head. A zero indicates the upper head; a one,

Drive Type (DT)

A zero indicates an RLO1; a one, an RLO2.

Drive Select Error

Set when a multiple drive selection 1s detected.

the lower head.

(DSE)

Volume Check
(VO)

Set when a cartridge is mounted and spun up. Cleared by execution of a Get

Status command with Bit 3 asserted.

4-7

Bit(s)

Name

Function

Write Gate Error

Set during Write Gate if one or more of the following conditions occur.

(WGE)

*
*

Drive is not ‘‘ready to read/write’’
Drive is write protected

Sector pulse is occurring

Drive has another error

Spin Error (SPE)

Set when spindle has not reached speed in the required time during spin-up or
when spindle speed is too high.

Seek Time Out

Set when the heads do not come on track in the required time during a Seek
command or when *‘ready to read/write’” is lost while the drive is in position

(SKTO)

(lock-on) mode.

Write Lock (WL)

Set when the drive is write protected.

Current Head Error

Set if write current is detected in the heads when Write Gate is not asserted.

(CHE)
15

Write Data Error

Set if Write Gate is asserted but no transitions are being detected on the Write

(WDE)

4.2.4.2

Data line.

MP Register After a Read Header Command — When a Read Header

next header will be read and its three words will be stored in the data buffer

command is executed, the

and transferred to the MP register.

The first word will contain sector address, head select, and cylinder address information

. The second word will

contain all zeros. The third word will contain the header CRC information
. All three words can be read
sequentially by the program (Figure 4-7).

MPR AFTER READ HEADER COMMAND
15

LCAS CA7 | CA6 | CA5 | CA4 | CA3 | CA2 | CA1| CAO|
15

[

HS | SA5| SA4 | sa3 | sA2 | sa 1| SAO
06

ZEROES
15

l
07

CRC

‘l
CZ-2013

Figure 4-7

MPR — Three Header Words

Bit(s)

Name

Function

0-5

Sector Address

Head Select

7-15

Cylinder Address

4.2.4.3

MP Register During Read/Write Data Commands — Before the reading or writing data, the

program should load the word count into the MP register in two’s complement form. The counter is

incremented as each word is transferred. Usually, the reading or writing operation is terminated when the word
counter reaches zero (overflows). The word counter can keep track of any number of data words, from one to
the full 40-sector count of 5120 data words (decimal) (Figure 4-8).

MPR DURING READ/WRITE COMMANDS FOR WORD COUNT

WC12|WC11WC10] WC9 | WC8| WC7 | WC6 | WC5 | WC4 | WC3 | WC2 | WC1 WC;l
CZ-2036

Figure 4-8

Bit(s)

0-12

MPR - Used as a Word Counter

Name

Function

Word Count

Contains the two’s complement of total number of words to be transferred.

WC 12:00

13-15

Must be ones.

MP Register Programming Note — The RL0O1/RL02
Disk Drive will not do spiral read/writes. If data is to
be transferred past the end of the last sector of a
track, it is necessary to break up the operation into
the following steps.
1.
Program the data transfer to terminate at the
end of the last sector of the track.

Program a seek to the next track. This can be

either a head switch to the other surface but same
cylinder or a head switch and move to the next
cylinder.
3.
Program the data transfer to continue at the
start of the first sector at the next track.
4.2.5

Figure 4-9 is a bit and function summary of the CS, BA, DA, and MP registers.

4-9

CONTROL STATUS REGISTER (CSR)
15

ERR

DE | NXM | E2

DS1 | DSO |CRDY|

READ ONLY

|BA17|BA16|

FO DRD:I

READ/WRITE

READ

ONLY
CZ-2009

BUS ADDRESS REGISTER (BAR)
15

BA15|BA14|

BA13|BA12|

BA11|BA10|

BA9 | BA8 | BA7 | BA6 | BA5 | BA4 | BA3 | BA2 | BA1

'
J

READ/WRITE

CZ-2035

DAR DURING SEEK COMMAND
15

[DFS DF7 | DF6 | DF5 | DF4 | DF3 | DF2 | DF1 | DFO

DIR

CZ-2010

DAR DURING READING OR WRITING DATA COMMANDS
15

{CAB CA7 | CA6 | CA5 | CA4 | CA3 CA2 | CA1 | CAO

HS | SA5 | SA4 | SA3 | SA2 | SA1 SAq
CZ-2011

Figure 4-9

DAR DURING GET STATUS COMMAND

RST

1 I
CZ-2037

MPR AFTER GET STATUS COMMAND

WDE | CHE| WL |SKTO} SPE |WGE| VC | DSE | DT HS

HO BH | STC | STB STA]
- CZ-2012

MPR AFTER READ HEADER COMMAND

I cA8 | CA7| cas | cA5 | cA4 | CA3 | cA2 | CA1 | CAO|
15

HS | SA5 | SA4 | SA3 | SA2 | SA1 | SAO

ZEROES
15

l
07

CZ-2013

MPR DURING READ/WRITE COMMANDS FOR WORD COUNT

WC12|WC11|WC10{

WC9|

wC8 | WC7 | WC6 | WC5 | WC4|

WC3 | WC2 | WC1

WCq
CZ-2036

Figure 4-9

4.3

CONTROLLER COMMANDS

The RLI11 Controller can give one of seven commands to the drive, while the RLV11 can issue one of eight

commands. Table 4-2 lists the commands. Each command is explained in the following paragraphs.

Table 4-2

RL11/RLV11 Controller Commands

Function Code

4.3.1

Command

No Op (RL11) or Maint. (RLV11)

Write Check

Get Status

Seek

Read Header

Write Data

Read Data

Read Data Without Header Check

No-Op (RL11) or Maintenance (RL.V11) — Function Code 0

The RL11

performs no operation aside from clearing errors (except DE), setting CRDY and interrupting if IE is

set.

The RLV11 maintenance command is used during a diskless diagnostic routine to detect controller malfunctions or to establish a level of confidence in controller operation. Prior to issuing the maintenance command, a

buffer area in memory must be set aside for writing and reading of test patterns. The controller registers must be
loaded by program with the following information.
BAR with address of first memory buffer location
*

WC register with a count of 511 (177001 octal)
DAR with test word

CSR with a function code O, reset bit 7
When the RLV11 issues the maintenance command and clears the CRDY bit, the OPI timer is started. The
microsequencer decodes the command and starts a maintenance routine. Two internal tests are performed and
the DAR is incremented after each. Then, by enabling a DMA transfer to take place between memory and the
controller FIFO, 256 words are transferred from the memory write test buffer into the FIFO. Once the FIFO is

full, 255 words are transferred into the memory read test buffer previously prepared. The DAR is now
incremented a third time. Throughout MAINT, checks are made and if an error occurs, the function stops with
ERR set. The DAR is incremented as the test proceeds. This incrementing serves as a trace to determine the

failing internal test.
Next, the test word + 3 that was initially loaded into the DAR is channeled through the data source selector and
into the CRC circuit.

A CRC word is generated from this test word and sent through the data source selector

again. This CRC of the test word then passes through the write precompensation circuit and the data separator
circuit to eventually end up in the FIFO.

- The contents of the DAR 1is then incremented and becomes test word +4. This new test word follows the same
path as the preceeding test word and ends up as the second word in the FIFO. At this point, the FIFO holds:
WORD

FIFO

1st

CRC of test word+3

2nd

CRC of test word +4

4-12

The contents of the DAR is now incremented once again and becomes test word +35.

serialized. It 1s sent
Next, the second word in the FIFO (CRC of test word +4) is removed from the FIFO Itand
the same data
follows
through the data source selector, the CRC, and data source selector again, and so on. word. At this
point, the
path as the two previous words and ends up back in the FIFO as the new second FIFO
o

FIFO holds:

WORD

FIFO

Ist

CRC of test word +3

2nd

CRC of CRC of test word +4

r ready bit
The contents of the DAR is then incremented for the sixth time to become test word + 6. The controlleoperation
.
is then set and the CPU receives an interrupt request. This completes the maintenance command
data source
As a result of this maintenance test, the following circuits are tested: the FIFO, the registers, the
separator circuit and the
selector, the CRC circuit, the match circuit, the write precompensation circuit, the data
FIFO input and output serializer. Also, many of the microsequencer functions are exercised.
4.3.2

Write Check — Function Code 1

It is used after writing a
The write check command is used to verify that data was written on the disk correctlyd. reads
this same block of
block of data onto the disk by the write command function. The write check comman
in main memory. Because this
data from the disk and compares it with the contents of its source data buffer area
comparison is performed in the controller, this source data must be transferred out of memory and into the
controller silo.

location of the data
Prior to issuing this command, the BA register must be loaded with the address of the first
length. The DA
block
data
block in the main memory. The word counter register must be loaded with the
d can be
comman
check
write
register is then loaded with the starting disk address location. At this point, the
loaded into the CS register.

read from the
Once a header match is found, and the header CRC validates the match, the 128 words of data areDATA
OUT).
(SER
silo
the
disk. The disk data is then compared serially with the serial data coming out of
Either a compare error or a data CRC error will set bit 11 in the CS register.
4.3.3

Get Status — Function Code 2

the
The Get Status command causes the status word from a drive to be transferred to the controller towhere
perform
ready
is
controller
the
that
software can access it through the MPR. The software should first verify
in bits 01
an operation (the drive does not have to be ready). Then, the software should load the DAR with oneswith
drive
CSR
the
load
should
software
and 00, a reset bit at 03 and zeroes in the other locations. Next, the
now
will
controller
The
bits.
function
the
in
select bits, a negative GO bit, IE bit (if desired) and a code of 2
set,
was
bit
‘‘reset’’
the
If
.
controller
the
in
command the selected drive to transfer its status word to the MPR
the drive would reset its status register first.

— Function Code 3

4.3.4 Seek
The
The Seek operation causes the positioner to move (either forward or reverse) some number of cylinders.
difference
the
with
DAR
the
load
then
command,
a
accept
to
software should first verify that the drive is ready
word (difference between the present position and desired position). This word contains the number of,
1=forward
cylinders to move (bits 15 through 07), the head select bit (04) and the direction bit (bit 02, the
software
loaded,
is
DAR
the
After
set.
be
must
00
bit
and
reset
O=reverse). Bits 06, 05 and 01 must be
GO
negative
the
bits,
select
drive
the
contain
should
word
This
word.
should load the CSR with the command
selected
the
to
command
Seek
the
sends
controller
The
bits.
function
the
in
bit, IE bit if desired and a code of 3
if IE 1s
drive, causing the drive to start its Seek operation. At this time, the controller goes ready and interrupts
set. The controller is now ready to accept another command to perform another operation on another drive while
the Seek is occurring.

4-13

If the difference word is large enough that the heads attempt to move past the innermost or outermost limits, the
head will stop at the guard band and retreat to the first even-numbered data track.

4.3.5

Read Header — Function Code 4

When a Read Header function is decoded, the controller will read the first header encountered on the selected
drive and place the three header words in the silo. They pass through the silo and stop with the first word in the
MP register. The software can then access the first word to determine the current sector, head, and cylinder
address. When the software extracts the first word from the MP register, the second word automatically moves

in to the MP register. If the software extracts the second word, the third word automatically moves in the MP.
This is the CRC word. The software can now access it for checking purposes.

4.3.6 Write Data — Function Code 5
When this function is decoded with CRDY cleared, the controller starts reading successive header words and
comparing them to the DA register. When a match is found, the header CRC is checked and, if correct, that

sector 1s written with the words from memory designated by the BA register. The BA and MP registers (word
count in two’s complement form) are incremented for each word transferred. For partial sector writes, the
remaining sector area is filled with zeros. At the end of the sector, the sector portion of the DA register is

incremented. The next sector is written if all the words have not been written. At the end of the transfer, CRDY
is set and an interrupt made if IE is set.

4.3.7

Read Data — Function Code 6

When this function is decoded, the controller begins reading successive header words and comparing them to

the contents of the DA register. When a match is found, the header CRC is checked and, if correct, that sector is
read and the words are placed in the memory location designated by the BA register. Both the BA and MP
registers (word count in two’s complement form) are incremented for each word transferred. This operation

continues until the contents of the MP register is all zeros. Data CRC is checked and the DA register is
incremented at the end of each sector. If the word count has not overflowed, the next sector is read. Otherwise,
CRDY is set and an interrupt is made if IE is set.

4.3.8 Read Data Without Header Check — Function Code 7
When this function is decoded, the data portion of the sector following the next sector pulse is read and the
words requested are placed in the memory locations designated by the BA register. The BA and MP registers

(word count in two’s complement form) are incremented for each word transferred. The header is neither
compared nor checked for CRC errors. Data CRC is checked at the end of a sector. If the word count has not

overflowed, the next sector is read. Otherwise, CRDY is set and an interrupt is made if IE is set.
|

NOTE

The DA register is not incremented during

multisector transfer.

4.4
4.4.1

OPERATIONAL CONSIDERATIONS
Interrupt

The controller will request an interrupt if the IE bit and the CRDY bit are both set in the CS re gister. The IE bit is

set or reset by the software and reset with the initialize condition. The CRDY bit is set by the hardware upon
completion of a function or upon the setting of an error flag. It is also set by the initialize condition. Itis reset by

the software to cause the controller to start a function (negative GO bit). The interrupt vector address is 160. The

normal priority level for the RL11 is BUS REQUEST 5. The RLV11 Controller uses the one priority level
provided by the LSI-11 processor.

4-14

Seek Operation

4.4.2

NoUnRAhD
-

The following sequence is an example of performing a seek function.

Issue read header function to drive and wait for interrupt or wait for CRDY.
Check error flag.

Read the header word from the MP register.
Calculate difference and direction for the seek.
Move difference word to the DA register.

Issue seek function to drive and wait for seek to be completed as indicated by drive ready bit.
Check error flag.

cylinder and head
A software system that optimizes positional latency (see Paragraph 1.4) would keep currentreading
the header
select information in core so that Steps 1, 2 and 3 would be unnecessary. Also, note that
gives rotational position as well, so that some rotational optimization is possible.

Overlapped Seeks
to issue seeks to
Since the controller comes ready and interrupts as soon as a seek is issued, it is possible
are completed, so the
additional drives while the first is seeking. However, no interrupt occurs when theasseeks
seeks are issued. In this
transfer command should be issued to the drive requiring the shortest seek as soon allinterrupt
when done.
way, the drive completing its seek first will immediately perform its transfer and

4.4.3

Data Transfer

4.4.4

by the RL11.
Data transfer is via DMA facility. Sixteen words of FIFO (silo) buffering are provided for data
unless the
sector
a
The RLV11 provides 256 words of FIFO (RAM) buffering and will not start transferring
FIFO has enough space to hold the entire sector.

To do a data transfer, the software should perform the following steps:

. Load BA register with address of first memory location to be transferred
. Load DA register with address of first disk location to be transferred
. Load WC register with two’s complement of number of words to be transferred
o Issue read data or write data and wait for interrupt or test for ready
e

Check error flag.

Other drives could do seeks or data transfers between the issuing of seek and the issuing of the data transfers.
4.4.5

Recovery of Data with Bad Headers

headers become
Function 7, read data without header check, is provided to allow the recovery of data should
so that the data 1s not
unreadable. If constant HNF or HCRC errors are encountered on a particular sector
read header commands
recoverable by the standard read command, proceed as follows. Perform successiveissue
a read data without
onds
until the sector preceding the bad sector is found. Then, within 300 microsecheader
compare or header CRC
header check. The data portion of the next sector will be read without either
check. Data CRC errors will be reported.

4.4.6 Non-interchangeability of RLO1K/RL02K Disk Cartridges

the
These two types of cartridges are not functionally interchangeable but a cartridge will physically fit into
media,
drive,
the
to
occur
will
damage
no
drive,
wrong
the
““wrong’’ type of drive. If a cartridge is loaded into
for the

or data but the software will not run normally. If such symptoms are exhibited, the operator should check
|

proper cartridge type.

4-15

4.5

ERROR RECOVERY

There are several errors that can be detected and flagged in the RLO1/RLO02 subsystem. Some of them can be
considered recoverable in the sense that if the operation is retried it is possible that the error will not recur and
successtul use of the subsystem can continue. Some of the errors are considered fatal because retries could

damage the data, media, or equipment. The errors are listed with the recommended reaction in Table 4-3.
The nature of these errors should be considered when determining how many times to retry the operation before
declaring that retrying has reached a practical limit. For instance, a DLT error could be caused by a hardware
system failure but it could also be the result of bus act1v1ty due to other I/O devices exceeding the throughput
capability for a short duration. In this latter care, it is likely that the operation would be successful on the first

retry. The rate of occurrences is a good 1nd1cator of overall system performance and an error logging routine

should count that. A general increase in the rate of DLT errors could indicate hardware system failures or it
could indicate that the usage of the system is approaching its throughput capacity in its present configuration.
Another example of applying practical reaction to an error is the handling of a HNF error. It should be retried
once and if it recurs then possibly the head is not positioned over the correct track. If a read header operation is

performed and the address from the media is examined, the current cylinder and head can be determined to see if

it is a position problem. If not, then possibly there is a bad spot on the media and another area should be tried. If
there is a bad header, that sector address should be entered into the Bad Sector File and the software should
avoid using the original sector.
As an additional example, consider an NXM error. It indicates that a memory unitis not respondmg to a DMA

request for data transfer to/from that memory unit. Itis unlikely that the media or disk unit is failin g and only
slightly more likely that the controlleris failing (hardware problem). Itis possible that the program is trying to
access a non-existant memory unit (software problem). A retry may be worthwhile for one time but more than

likely it will recur. The most important piece of 1nformat10n needed for diagnosisis the contents of the BA
register.

Each of the errors should be given the same type of practical thought when programming error recovery
routines. Whenever an error occurs, the program should log it along with the symptoms such as the contents of

the registers, the status of the unit, and whether or not a retry was successful. The more complete the error log,
the more quickly and accurately the cause can be diagnosed.
Table 4-3

CONTROLLER

Errors

BIT IN C.S. | RECOMMENDED REACTION

ERROR

OPI

DCRC/HCRC/WCE

)

10
11

Retry some practi_cal number of times.
|

Retry some practical number of times. Be sure to record contents of the

DA register.

DLT/HNF

Retry. It HNF, perform a read header, and verify cylinder.

NXM

Retry once. Be sure to record the contents of the BA register.

‘
Perform a Get Status and check bits listed below.

DRIVE ERROR

4-16

Table 4-3

Errors (Cont)

RECOMMENDED REACTION

DRIVE

BIT IN STATUS

DSE

Retry once before notifying operator to verify UNIT SELECT plug.

WGE

Retry.

SPE

Retry.

SKTO

Retry. Wait for 1.5 sec after Reset.

CHE

Fatal. Do not retry.

WDE

Fatal. Do not retry.

ERROR

WORD

4.6 DIFFERENCE SUMMARY (RKO05 and RLO01/RL02)

used DIGITAL’s RKO5 disk cartridge subsystem. It
This section may be helpful to users who have formeranlyRKO05
subsystem and programming an RLO1/RLO2
points out the differences between programming
subsystem.

RL02
its functionality built into the hardware while theareRLO1/
In general, the RKO5 subsystem had a lot of some
ned
explai
nces
differe
major
The
nality.
of the functio
subsystem requires that the software provide
below.

Spiral Read/Write or Mid-Transfer Seeks

end of a track. The RKO5 subsystem provides
A spiral read/write is a transfer of data that continues past the
track condition and the hardware will cause
hardware support for this by using the hardware to detect the end of operati
on at sector O of the next track. Note
te
a mid-transfer seek to the next track and then restart the read/writhe
the same cylinder with no
surface
lower
that this seek is either a head switch from the upper surfacetotoupper surface with aofpositio
ner movement to the
head positioner movement, or a switch from lower surface handle this. If a read/write operati
on continues past
next cylinder. The RLO1/RLO2 subsystem hardware cannot
error flag is set.
OPl
the
and
illegal
is
which
(octal)
the 40th sector, the sector counter in the DAR advances to 50
left versus the
area
ng
remaini
the
ing
calculat
by
ng
It is necessary for the software to 1) prevent this from occurri occurred. The software must initiate
a separate

4.6.1

amount of data left before the operation or 2) to detect that it has
that a head switch from upper to
seek function and as well as a continuance of the read/write function. Note
considered a seek in the RLO1/RLO2

cylinder is
lower surface without a positioner movement to the nextthe
center of the new track.
subsystem. After a head switch, the positioner will seek

4.6.2

Implicit Seeks Versus Explicit Seeks

An explicit seek 1s a software-directed seek
The RKO5 subsystem can perform either implicit or explicit seeks.
ng of a read/write operation if the
the
operation. An implicit seek 1s a seek initiated by the hardware atwithbeginni
position. The RLO1/RLO2
present
the
e
desired cylinder address or head address does not coincid
the positioner is over the
that
ensure
must
e
subsystem hardware does not have this capability. The softwar
desired cylinder and the desired head is selected before starting a read/write operation.

Recalibrate
causes the positioner to move to cylinder
The RK 05 subsystem has a return to zero or recalibrate function which
An explicit seek to cylinder zero must be
0. There is no similar function in the RLO1/RLO2 subsystem.drive
is commanded to seek beyond the outer
performed. If the current cylinder address is not known and the

4.6.3

guard band, this guard band will be detected and the head will retreat to cylinder zero.
4-17

4.6.4

Bad Sector File

There is a bad sector file feature on each RLO1/RL02 Disk Cartridge. Its use is explained in Paragraph 1.6.

There is no standard Bad Sector File used with the RKOS5.
-

4.6.5

Reformatting

The RKOS5 cartridge can be reformatted in the field while the RLO1/RLO2K cartridges cannot. The imbedded
servo information and Bad Sector File greatly reduce the need to reformat the cartridge in the field.
4.6.6 Seek Interrupt
The RKO5 will provide two interrupts as the result of a seek operation. The first interrupt occurs as soon as the
controller has caused the drive to start its movement, indicating that the controller is free to handle another

function. The second interrupt occurs when the drive finishes the seek movement. The RLO1/RL02 subsystem
does not provide the second interrupt. Thus, the software must perform the proper monitoring of the drive to
determine when the seek has been completed.

4-18

CHAPTER 35

RLS8-A PROGRAMMING INFORMATION

L DESCRIPTION

GENERA
the
The RLS-A Controller consists of a single hex-height M8433 module. It interfaces the PDP-8 Omnibus withThe
operation.
disk
for
logic
handling
data
and
monitor,
control,
'RLO1/RLO2 Disk Drive bus and contains the
R1.8-A can handle up to four drives via a daisy-chained I/O cable. A PDP-8 can handle two RL8-A Controllers,
5.1

providing control for up to eight drives.

The RL8-A has six addressable registers that are detailed in Section 5.2. The PDP-8 computer communicates
with the controller by accessing these registers using Input Output Transfer (IOT) instructions which have a
format of 6XXX. The device codes X60X and X61X are assigned to the first controller. If there is a second
controller it uses device codes X62X and X63X. The specific instructions that cause a response in a controller
are shown in Table 5-1. The instructions are used to monitor and control the controller and are not used to
transfer data. Data is transferred using Direct Memory Access (DMA) operation via data break cycles on the
Omnibus. The result is an exchange of data between the controller and memory directly, one 12-bit word at a
time. The controller has a silo which can buffer up to 16 words. The controller can transfer 12-bit words to the
disk as 12-bit words or can transform them into 8-bit bytes by dropping the high order four bits in each word.
The controller can transfer data coming from the disk onto the Omnibus as 12-bit words or it can group the data
as 8-bit bytes and fill in the remaining four bits as zeros. The advantages and disadvantages of both the 8-bit and
12-bit mode are covered in Paragraph 5.4.

Table 5-1

RLS8-A Instruction Set

OCTAL CODE *

MNEMONIC

FUNCTION

6600

- RLDC

Clear controller, all registers, AC and flags. (Do not use to

6601

RLSD

Skip on function done. Then clear if set to a one.

6602

RLMA

Load break MA register from AC 0:11

6603

RLCA

Load command register A from AC 0:11

6604

RLCB

6605

RLSA

Load sector address register from AC 0:5

6607

RLWC

~ Load word count register from AC 0:11

6610

RRER

‘|

terminate a disk function.)

~ Load command register B from AC 0:11, execute command

: Read error register into AC 0, 1, 2, 10, 11

5-1

Table 5-1

RLS8-A Instruction Set (Cont)

OCTAL CODE *

MNEMONIC

FUNCTION

6611

RRWC

Read word count register into AC 0:11

6612

RRCA

Read command register A into AC 0:11

6613

RRCB

Read command register B into AC 0:11

6614

RRSA

Read sector address register into AC 0:5

6615

RRSI

Read silo word into AC 0:11

6617

RLSE

Skip on composite error, then clear if set to a one.

* Alternate device code, 62 and 63
The RL8-A Controller is capable of performing eight operations. These are listed briefly in Table 5-2 and

detailed in Paragraph 5.3.

Table 5-2

RLS8-A Controller Commands

Function Code

Operation

Maintenance

Reset

Get Status

Seek

Read Header

Write Data

Read Data

Read Data Without Header Check

Errors and error recovery are covered in Paragraph 5.5.

5.2

ADDRESSABLE REGISTERS

5.2.1

Command Register A

Command Register A is a 12-bit register used during the Seek, Read Data, and Write Data commands. The
register 1s loaded by an RLCA (6603) command and may be read by an RRCA command (6612). Initialize from
the bus will clear this register and the other addressable registers.
5.2.1.1

Command Register A During a Seek Command — To perform a Seek function, it is necessary to

provide cylinder address difference, head select, and head direction information to the selected drive as

indicated (Figure 5-1).

5-2

l DIR

MSB

LSBJ
i

CYLINDER DIFFERENCE
CZ-2016

Command Register A During a Seek Command

Figure 5-1

Bit

Name

Function

ACO

Direction (DIR)

This bit indicates the direction in which a seek is to take place. When the
bit is set, the heads move toward the spindle (to a higher cylinder
address). When the bit is cleared, the heads move away from the spindle
(to a lower cylinder address). The actual distance moved depends on the
cylinder address difference (bits 3-11).

Indicates which head (disk surface) is to be selected. A one indicates the

ACl1

Head Select (HS)

AC2

Spare

AC3:11

Cylinder Address

Indicates the number of cylinders the heads are to move on a seek.

lower head; a zero, the upper head.

Difference

5.2.1.2 Command Register A During Read or Write Data Command — For a Read or Write operation, the
of the address of the first sector to be transferred (cylinder address and
Command Register A is loaded with part
head select). This information is transferred to the disk address register along with the contents of the Sector

Address register to make the complete address of the sector (Figure 5-2).

MSB

11
LSB

CYLINDER ADDRESS
CZ-2017

Figure 5-2

Command Register A During A Read/Write Data Command

Bit

Name

Function

ACO

Must be zero

ACl1

Head Select (HS)

Head select bit — a one indicates the lower head; a zero, the upper head

Must be zero

Cylinder Address

Cylinder address

- AC2

AC3:11

5-3

5.2.2

Command Register B

Command Register B is a 12-bit register that contains the mode, drive number, extended memory address bits,
interrupt enable, and the function code. The RLCB command (6604) is used to load the register and the RRCB
command (6613) reads the register. The RLCB command also executes the function (Figure 5-3).

RES | MAIN |MODE| IE MSB | LSB |EMAO | EMA1| EMA2| FC

FA*I

DRIVE SELECT

CZ-2018
Figure 5-3

Command Register B

Bit

Name

Function

ACO

Reserved

ACl1

Maintenance

The contents of the Disk Address (DA) register are looped back to the
silo for maintenance purposes. Bit 2 of command register B must also be
set for this function to work correctly. See Paragraph 5.3.9.

AC2

Mode

When set, this bit indicates that the data field will be 256 8-bit words per
sector. When zero, the data field will be truncated to 170 12-bit words
per sector. This bit must be set when a Maintenance, a Get Status or a

Read Header command is to be executed.
AC3

AC4:5

AC6:8

Interrupt Enable

When this bit is set, the controller is allowed to interrupt the processor at

(IE)

the conclusion of a normal command or error termination.

Drive Select

These bits determine which drive will communicate with the controller

(DSO, DS1)

via the drive bus.

Extended Memory

These three bits define the memory field location. This allows up to 32K

Addressed (EMA)

memory locations to be addressed on processors having more than 4K of
memory.

AC9:11

Function Code

These bits indicate the command to be executed by the controller/disk

subsystem.

Bit 9

Bit 10

Bit 11

Command

Maintenance

Reset

Get Status

Seek

Read Header

Write Data

Read Data

Read Data Without

Header Check

5-4

5.2.3 Break Memory Address Register
The Break Memory Address (BRK MA) registerisa 12-b it register that points to a memory location. It is loaded

by the RLMA command (6602). The contents of the BRK MA register are automatically incremented as each
word is transferred between memory and controller.

The register is cleared by initializing the controller or by loading the register with zeros (Figure 5-4).
00

|;/| 00 |BM01|BMO02|BM 03 |{BM 04 [BMO5 |BM 06 |[BM 07 |BM08 |BM 09 BM 10 |BM 1l]
CZ-2019

Figure 5-4

Break Memory Address Register

Count Register

5.2.4 Word
read by the
The Word Count (WC) register is a 12-bit register loaded by the RLWC command (6607) and
completwo’s
the
with
loaded
is
counter
word
the
data,
RRWC command (6611). Before reading or writing
place,
takes
transfer
(DMA)
Address
Memory
Direct
each
ment of the number of words to be transferred. As
data
4096
to
1
from
count
can
It
overtlow.
on
command
the
s
the word counter is incremented and terminate
limited
is
transfer
the
mode
byte
8-bit
the
In
mode.
word
12-bit
words. This corresponds to 24 sectors while in

to one sector (170 bytes) (Figure 5-5).

WC Register Programming Note — this disk drive
will not do spiral Read/Writes. The program must

break up a data transfer if track-to-track Read/

Writes are to be done. Between two such data
transfers, a seek to the next track or surface must be
made.

wcC ool wco1]{wcCo2{wcC 03{WC 04|WC 05|WC 06| WC 07| WC 08 WC 09| WC 10 |WC 11
CZ-2020

Figure 5-5

5.2.5

Word Count Register

Sector Address Register

read by an RRSA
The Sector Address (SA) register is a 6-bit register loaded by an RLSA command (6605) andinto
the SA register
command (6614). Before executing a Read or Write operation, the sector address is loaded
(Figure 5-6).

5-5

[SAOO SA01|SA02|SA03|SA04|SAO5
CZ-2021

Figure 5-6

Sector Address Register

5.2.6 Error Register
The Error register is a 5-bit register that is read by the RRER command (6610). Bits 0:2 are cleared by initialize
or when Command Register B is loaded (Figure 5-7).

DCRC| OPI DLT
HCRC

NOT DEFINED

DE DRDY*I

HNF

4
CZ-2022

Figure 5-7

Bit

Name

ACO

Data CRC (DRCR)

Function
If OPI is cleared and this bit is set, the CRC error occurred in the data
(DCRC). If OPI 1s set and this bit is also set, the CRC error occurred on

ACl1

Error Register

Header CRC (HCRC)

the header (HCRC).

Operation

When set, this bit indicates that the current command was not completed

Incomplete (OPI)

within 200 ms. It is also used in conjunction with bits O and 2 of this

Data

Late

(DLT)

Header Not Found (HNF)

This bit 1s set during a write if the silo is empty and the word count is not
yet zero (meaning that no word was available for writing). OPI will not
be set.
This bit is set during a read if the silo is full and the word count is not yet
zero (meaning that the word being read could not enter the silo). OPI will

not be set.
When this bit and OPI are both set, then a 200 ms timeout occurred while
the controller was searching for the correct sector to read or write (no
header compare — HNF).

5-6

Bit

Name

- Function

ACO0:2

Error Code

Summary

Bits

Error

DLT
OPI
HNF

0
0
0

0
1
]

1
0
1

0
0

0
1

|
1

DCRC
HCRC

This bit is tied directly to the Drive Error interface line. When set, it
indicates that the selected drive has flagged an error. The source of the

Drive Error (DE)

ACI10

error can be determined by a Get Status.

The DE bit is cleared with a Reset command to the drive.

When set, this bit indicates that the selected drive is ready to receive a

Drive Ready (DRDY)

ACl11

command. The bit is cleared when a Seek operation is initiated and set
again when the Seek operation is completed.

Silo Data Buffer

5.2.7

The RRSI command (6615) is used to transfer the contents of the silo data buffer to the AC. The silo does the
following:

Stores the result of the Get Status command from the drive (drive errors and status bits)

Stores the header words when a Read Header command is executed

Stores the result of a Maintenance command

Stores the contents of the DA register if the maintenance bit was set in Command Register B

5.2.7.1

Silo Register After a Get Status Command— When a Get Status command is executed and a status

word is returned to the controller, the contents of the silo register appear as shown in Figures 5-8 and 5-9.
00

NOT DEFINED

DT | HS

| co | HO|

BH | STC|

STB | STA

WORD 1
CZ-2023

Figure 5-8

Silo Buffer for Status Word 1

5-7

WORD 1
Bit

Function

Name

Undefined

ACO:3

AC4

Drive Type

ACS

Head Select (HS)

A zero indicates an RLLO1; a one, an RLO2.

Indicates currently selected head. A zero indicates the upper head; a one,

the lower head.
AC6

Cover Open (CO)

AC7

Heads Out (HO)

Set when the drive access cover is open or the dust cover is not in place.

A one indicates that the heads are over the disk; a zero indicates that the
heads are home.

AC8

Brush Home (BH)

Set when the brushes are home.

ACI9:11

State Bits

These bits define the state of the disk drive.

State Bit Definitions

[ ~ NOT DEFINED

Bit C

Bit B

Bit A

Definition

Load State

Spin-up

Brush Cycle

Load Heads

Seek (Track Counting)

Lock-on (keeping on track)

Unload Heads

Spin-down

WDE|

CHE | WL | STO | SPE |WGE|

VC | DSE

WORD 2
CZ-2024

Figure 5-9

Silo Buffer for Status Word 2
WORD 2

Bit(s)

Name

ACO:3

Undefined

AC4

Write Data Error (WDE)

Function

This bit is set when the write gate is on but no transitions were detected
on the write data line.

5-8

Bit(s)

Name

Function

ACS

Current Head Error

This bit is set when write current is detected in the heads but the write

(CHE)

gate was not asserted.

AC6

Write Lock (WL)

Set when the drive is write protected.

ACT

Seek Time Out Error
(SKTO)

Set when the heads did not come on track in the required time during a
seek operation, or when the heads drifted off track and did not return
within 1.5 seconds.

Set when the spindle does not come up to speed within 40 seconds or

ACS

Spin Error (SPE)

AC9

Write Gate Error (WGE) Set if write gate is asserted and one or more of the following conditions is

when the spindle speed is too high.

true.

ACI10

Volume Check (VC)

Drive is not ‘‘Ready to Read/Write”’

2.
3.

Drive is write-protected
Drive 1s in the midst of sector time

Drive has another error asserted

Set when a new cartridge has been loaded or when the power has been
cycled down, then up. This bit is reset by a Reset command.

AC11

Drive Select Error (DSE) Set when one or more drives have the same number (unit select plug) or
have responded to the same number.

5.2.7.2 Silo Data Buffer During a Read Header Command — When a Read Header command is executed,
six 8-bit bytes are stored in the silo as six 12-bit words. The first two header words contain sector address, head
select, and cylinder address information. The second two words contain all zeros. The last two words contain
the header CRC information. All six words are readable by the RRSI command (6615) (Figure 5-10).
5.2.8 Register Summary
Figure 5-11 is a bit and function summary
of the addressable registers.

L NOT DEFINED

NOT DEFINED

WORD 2

——

LSB

CYLINDER
ADDRESS

LSB | HS | MSB

WORD 1

SECTOR ADDRESS

MSB

—

CYLINDER ADDRESS

NOT DEFINED

WORD 3

NOT DEFINED
WORD 4

NOT DEFINED

LSBJ
—

WORD 5

HEADER CRC

NOT DEFINED

MSB

WORD 6

1
—

HEADER CRC
CZ-2025

Figure 5-10

Silo Buffer for Header Words

5-10

DIR HS X |MSB|
N

~—

- 00

LSB_l
)

CYLINDER DIFEERENCE
CZ-2016

0 MSB

LSBJ
)

—~

CYLINDER ADDRESS
CZ-2017

lRES MAIN IMODE| 1E | MSB | LSB |EMAO | EMA1| EMA2} FC FB FAJ
.

V’

DRIVE SELECT
CZ-2018

|;MOO BMo1|BMo02|BM 03 |BM 04 |BM05 |BM 06 {BM 07 |[BM08 |BM 09 |BM 10 BM1J
CZ-2019

wc oolwc o1 wc o02|{wc 03| wC 04| WC 05| WC 06| WC 07| WC 08 WC 09| WC 10 WC11l
CZ-2020

Figure 5-11

(Sheet 1 of 3)

LSAOO SA01|SA02|SA03|SA04 SA0;|
CZ-2021

DCRC| OPI | DLT
HCRC

NOT DEFINED

DRDYI

HNF

L
CZ-2022

NOT DEFINED

DT | HS | cO | HO | BH | STC | sTB | STA
WORD
1
CZ-2023

NOT DEFINED

WDE| CHE | WL | STO | SPE |WGE| VC DSI?I
WORD 2

'
CZ-2024

Figure 5-11

5-12

[— NOT DEFINED

LSB HS | MSB

LSB
_J

WORD 1

SECTOR ADDRESS

CYLINDER
ADDRESS

NOT DEFINED

WORD 2

NOT DEFINED

MSB

CYLINDER ADDRESS

WORD 3

r NOT DEFINED
WORD 4

LSBJ

NOT DEFINED
WORD 5

)

HEADER CRC

r NOT DEFINED
WORD 6

MSB
-

HEADER CRC
CZ-2025

Figure 5-11

5-13

5.3
CONTROLLER COMMANDS
The RL8-A Controller is capable of performing eight operations by responding

to the function code in the low
order three bits of Command Register B. In many cases it is necessary to load other registers prior to
loading the
function code into Command Register B. No registers should be loaded unless the controller is ready. This
condition can be checked by using an appropriate IOT instruction that checks
the function done status or by
using the interrupt mode.
5.3.1
Maintenance Command
This command tests the controller by causing it to perform the following tasks.
*

The controller requests a data word from memory via the Omnibus using the Break Memory Address

(BRK MA) register as an address. When the controller receives this word, the BRK MA and the Word
Count (WC) register are both incremented.
*

The data word is bubbled through the silo, serialized and transferred (in 8-bit mode)
through the
CRC-generating logic where two more 8-bit bytes are appended. This 24-bit data stream
goes through
the write data precompensation logic and then is looped back and brought in as if it were read
data from
the drive. The data passes through the phase-locked loop and data separator logic and into the
silo
where it is converted back to parallel, eight bits per word, and bubbles up through the silo to
be
available to the Omnibus.

The controller requests three memory accesses and transfers the three words back to memory

using the
BRK MA register as a pointer. The BRK MA register and WC register are incremented for
each
transfer. The words are now available for the program to check for diagnostic purposes.
The above processes repeat and the cycle continues until the WC register equals zero.

Prior to starting this command it is necessary to set up some registers as shown below.
°

The BRK MA register should be loaded with the address of the first word of data to be transferred to the
controller. The next three words of memory will receive three words of data from the controller.
The WC register should be loaded with the desired count (in two’s complement form). A complete

cycle takes four counts.
*

3.3.2

The Command Register B should be loaded with 10X0 or 14X0. This sets the mode bit to indicate 8-bit
mode. The maintenance bit is a zero. The function code is 000. The remaining bits are irrelevant.

Reset Command

This command is used to reset all of the error bits in the selected drive unit. It does not reset any conditions

in the
controller nor does it cause any head movement in the drive. Prior to executing this command,
the Sector
Address Register and Command Register A must be cleared by using appropriate IOT instructions.

35.3.3
Get Status Command
The Get Status command reads the 16-bit status word from the selected

In two consecutive words in the silo. The computer can then extract

drive and transfers it into two 8-bit bytes
them with two IOT RRSI instructions. The

format of the bits are shown in Paragraph 5.2.7.1 Prior to performing a Get Status command
it is necessary to
clear both the Sector Address Register and Command Register A. When Command Register
B is loaded with
the function code the appropriate drive select bits should be set, the interrupt enable bit should be set if desired,
and the mode bit must be set for 8-bit mode. The controller should be ready before performing any of these load
register operations but the drive does not have to be ready.

5-14

5.3.4

Seek Command

The Seek command is used to move the heads (on the selected drive) or to select the other head. Prior to
executing the seek command the Sector Address Register should be cleared and Command Re glster A should be
loaded with a direction bit, a head select bit, and cylinder difference word. Command Register B is then loaded
with the drive select bits and the seek function code. The controller will send a command to the selected drive to
cause it to start a seek operation. The controller will become ready and can then perform another command even
though the drive is still seeking.

If the drive attempts to move the head past the innermost or outermost tracks, the head will retreat from the

guard band and stop at the first even-numbered track it encounters.
Read Header Command

5.3.5

The Read Header command will read the first header encountered on the selected drive and load the header into
six consecutive word locations in the silo, one 8-bit byte per word. The computer can then extract this
information with IOT RRSI instructions. The format of the information is shown in Paragraph 5.2.7.2. A check
is performed on the header that is read.

5.3.6

Write Data Command

The Write Data command requests data from memory, one word at a time, via the Omnibus using the DMA
mode. It then transfers the data through the controller silo buffer to the selected drive. The data is written at the
specified sector data area. This operation continues, incrementing both the Break Memory Address register and
the Word Count register once for each Omnibus transfer, until the Word Count register reaches zero.

Prior to starting this command it is necessary to position the head over the desired track using a Seek command.

Then the registers should be loaded as follows.

Load the Break Memory Address register with the address of the first memory word to be transferred.

Load the Sector Address register with the address of the first sector to be written.

Load the Word Counter register with the two’s complement of the number of words to be transterred.

« Load the Command Register A with the héad select bit and the cylinder address word.
+

Load the Command Register B with a mode bit (8-bit or 12-bit mode), interrupt enable bit (optional),

drive select bits, extended memory address bits, and the Write Data function code.

The Write Data command will then read headers and perform header checks until the desired header is located.
After the headeris checked, the data is transferred. The header check includes a header CRC check. There 1s no
implicit seek performed so if the selected head1s not posmoned over the desired track, the desired header will
not be found and an OPI error will occur. If only a partial sector is written, the remainder of the sector is written
with all zeros. A CRC word (16 bits)is generated and written for each sector automatically. Since the word
count is limited to 4096 this means that the maximum amount of data that can be written with one Write Data
commandis 16 sectors in 8-bit mode. If 12 bit mode is used, a maximum of 170 words (one sector) can be
transferred. The hardware will not perform a spiral (mid- transfer) seek. Therefore, if data must be written that
would overflow to the next track, it is necessary to write the data to the end of the track, seek to the next track
and then continue to write the remalnder of the data.

5-15

5.3.7

Read Data Command

The Read Data Command will cause the controller to read data from the selected drive. It will read from the

track that is currently under the selected head, starting at the specified sector. The data is transferred through the

controller silo buffer. The controller requests DMA transfers to memory via the Omnibus. The Break Memory
Address register is incremented once for each 12-bit word transferred over the Omnibus and the Word Count

register is counted up. When the Word Count register reaches zero the Read Data command is terminated. Prior
to starting the Read Data command, the head should be positioned over the desired track with a Seek command.

Load the registers as follows.
°

Load the Break Memory Address register with the address of the first location in memory to which the

data is to be transferred.
°

Load the Sector Address register with the address of the first sector from which the data is to be read.

Load the Word Counter register with the two’s complement of the number of words of data to be read.

Load the Command Register A with a head select bit and a cylinder address word.

Load the Command Register B with a mode bit and interrupt enable bit (optional) drive select bits,
extended memory address bits, and the function code for Read Data.

The Read Data command then reads headers, comparing them to the desired disk address. The data transfer

begins when the desired header is found. The header checks include header CRC checks. There is no implicit
seek so if the selected head is not over the desired track, the desired header will not be found and an OPI error

will occur.

The RL8-A cannot perform a spiral (mid-transfer) seek. If a block of data to be read passes the end of a track and
continues on the other surface or on the next cylinder, it is necessary to program a Read Data just to the end
of
the track. The drive must then Seek to the next track and then continue reading data.
A CRC check is performed on each sector during a Read Data operation.
5.3.8
Read Data Without Header Check Command
This command is the same as a Read Data command except that no header check is performed. The next header

read 1s considered a match so that sector is the first sector read. Since no header check takes place, the header

CRC is not performed.

5.3.9

Maintenance Bit

The maintenance bit in Command Register B enables a path for the serial information leaving the DA register.
When this bit is set, the data that is going out to the drive is looped back and shifted into the silo. The data

bubbles through the silo and becomes accessible (as two 8-bit bytes) to IOT RRSI instructions. The program
can then monitor the operation of the DA register, which is not a directly addressable register. This feature must

be used only with Reset, Get Status, and Seek commands. Because the DA register is a 16-bit register, the 8-bit
mode bit should be set. This insures that the contents of the DA register fit into two 8-bit bytes. The contents of
the DA register and the two silo words are illustrated in Figure 5-12. During the loading of DA register (which
occurs on every command) there is more than one input to some of the bit positions. These inputs are ORed

together. Normally, the Sector Address Register is cleared before any Reset, Get Status, or Seek command and
Control Register A is cleared before any Reset or Get Status command. It is possible to test all the bits in the DA
register by using selected patterns in Control Register A and the Sector Address Register.

5-16

LOADING OF DAR

=~ MARKER
.P_Rf

RESET
GET STATUS
SEEK

GET STATUS

ANDDIRECTION

SEEK

J
RESET

SEEK

HEAD SELECT

AND

7
2
3 456
01
\

A A&

111213

910
\

DAR

01 2 3 4 5|SAR

01234567891011JCAR

TRANSFER OF DAR TO SILO

SILO 2ND WORD

o1 2345673809011

' SILO 1ST WORD

[0123 45867839 1011
A

12 3456 7 8 9 1011121314 15|DAR
CZ-2026

Figure 5-12

Maintenance Mode Bit

5-17

5.4

OPERATIONAL CONSIDERATIONS

5.4.1

8-Bit Mode Versus 12-Bit Mode

The disk cartridge is formatted in 8-bit bytes. For instance, the header contains a 16-bit word address, another

16-bit word, then a 16-bit header. The data area is 256 8-bit bytes and the data area CRC is 16 bits. None of
these areas are evenly divisible by 12, which is the PDP-8 word length. Therefore, the RL8-A Controller has the
capability of operating in either 8-bit mode or 12-bit mode.

When reading in 8-bit mode, the serial data from the disk is broken into 8-bit bytes and put into the silo with
eight bits per word. Since the silo is 12 bits wide, the data goes into the eight low order bit positions and zeros
are put into the remaining four high order bit positions. That is the format used when the computer transfers a

12-bit word from the silo to the CPU accumulator or to memory. The 8-bit mode is necessary when performing
a Read Header, Get Status, or Maintenance command where 16 bits of data are read. Otherwise, information

would be lost.

The 8-bit mode can be used for data on the disk. In such a case, 256 8-bit bytes are read from each sector and
transterred to memory as 8-bit words. In some cases, this may be an advantage. For example, if 8-bit ASCII

data 1s being handled the 8-bit mode is preferable to 12-bit mode. In most cases, however, the 8-bit mode wastes

33% of the memory space. Because the 12-bit mode uses 12-bit words it uses less memory. In the 12-bit mode
each sector contains 170 words with only 8 wasted bits at the end of each sector.
In the 12-bit mode, the RL8-A Controller hardware blocks data into 170 words per sector. The operatin g system
for the PDP-8 uses only 128 words per sector, so that while memory is used more efficiently, some disk space 1s

wasted.

5.4.2

Interrupt

The RL8-A will interrupt the processor if the Interrupt Enable bit is set and the controller is done. If an error

occurs during an operation the done condition is set.

5.4.3

Seek Operation

If the program does not keep track of the current position of the head (cylinder and surface), and it is desired to

read or write from a particular area from the disk, it is necessary to:
*

Read Header to obtain the current position of the head
Calculate the difference (if any) from the desired position

Issue a Seek with the proper difference, direction and head select information.

5.4.4

Overlapped Seeks
Since a Seek operation does not involve data transfer, it is possible to have one drive seeking while another is

transferring data. Only one drive at a time can transfer data but up to four drives can be seeking simultaneously.

5.4.5 Recovery of Data with Bad Headers
A
Function 7, Read Data Without Header Check, allows the recovery of data with unreadable headers. If HNF or

HCRC errors are repeatedly encountered on a particular sector, and the data is not recoverable by the standard

read command, proceed as follows. Read successive headers until the sector preceding the bad sector is found.

Then, within 300 microseconds, issue a Read Data Without Header Check. The data portion of the next sector
will be read without either header compare or header CRC check. Data CRC errors will be reported.

5-18

Non-interchangeability of Disk Cartridges

5.4.6

not functionally
5.4.6.1 RLO1K/RLO2K — These two types of cartridges are physically interchangeable but
take place and
will
damage
physical
interchangeable. If a cartridge is installed on the incorrect type of drive, no
exhibited
symptoms
The
manner.
data will not be destroyed. However, the unit will not operate in a normal

depend upon the program running at the time. If the system is exhibiting abnormal characteristics the operator
should ensure each drive contains the correct type of cartridge.

cartridges as5.4.6.2 RLS8-A/RL11/RLV11 - RLOIK cartridges are interchangeable with other RLO1K
interchangeable with
suming that the RL8-A has written the cartridges in 8-bit mode. RLO2K cartridges are

other RLO2K cartridges under the same condition.
Use of Two RLS8-A Controllers

5.4.7

A PDP-8 system can be configured with two RL8-A Controllers to increase the capacity of the system up to

eight drives. However, if both controllers are trying to perform data transfers at the same time, the throughput
capacity of the Omnibus may be exceeded. In this case, conflicts (DLT’s) will occur.
5.5

ERROR RECOVERY

are
There are several errors that can be detected and flagged in the RIO1/RL0O2 subsystem. Some of them use
and
recur
not
will
error
the
that
possible
is
it
retried
is
considered recoverable. In this case, if the operation
of the subsystem can continue. Some of the errors are considered fatal, however, because retries may cause
damage to the data, media, or equipment. The errors are listed with the recommend reaction in Table 5-3.
Table 5-3

Errors

Controller Errors

Recommended Reaction

OPI

Retry some practical number of times.

DLT/HNF

Retry. If an NHF error, perform a Read Header and verify cylinder.

DCRC/HCRC
Drive Error

Retry. Be sure to record the contents of the DA register.
Perform a Get Status and check the bits listed below.

Drive Errors

Recommended Reaction

DSE

Retry once before notifying operator to verify UNIT SELECT plug.

SKTO
CHE
WDE

Retry.Wait for 1.5 sec after Reset.
Fatal. Do not retry.
Fatal. Do not retry.

WGE
SPE

Retry.
Retry.

The nature of these errors should be considered when determining how many times to retry the operation. For
instance, a DLT error could be a hardware system failure but it could also be the result of bus activity due to
other I/O devices exceeding the throughput capability. In the latter case, it is likely that the operation would be
successful on the first retry. The rate of occurrences is a good indicator of overall system performance and an
error logging routine should count the rate at which errors occur. A general increase in the rate of DLT errors
could indicate that system usage is approaching its throughput capacity in its present configuration.
Another example of applying practical reaction to an error is the handling of an HNF error. It should be retried
once. If it recurs, then the head may not be positioned over the correct track. If a Read Header operation 1s
performed and the address from the media is examined, the current cylinder and head can be determined to see 1f
it is a position problem. If not, then possibly there is a bad spot on the media. If there is a bad header, that sector
address should be entered into the Bad Sector File and the software should avoid using the original sector.
5-19

Whenever an error occurs, the program should log

it along with the contents of the registers, the status of the
unit, and whether or not a retry was successful. The more complete the error lo g, the easier
it is to diagnose the
cause of errors.

5.6

DIFFERENCE SUMMARY (RKO05 AND RLO1/RL02)

This section may be helpful to users who have used DIGITAL’s RKO05 disk cartridge

the differences between programming the RKO5 subsystem and programming

subsystem. It points out
the RLO1/RLO2 subsystem.

In general, the RKO05 subsystem provides more hardware support of functions while
the RLO1/RL02 subsystem
requires that the software provide some of the functionality. The major differences
are explained below.
5.6.1
Spiral Read/Write or Mid-Transfer Seeks
|
A spiral read/write is a transfer of data that continues past the end of a track. The

hardware support for this by using the hardware to detect the end of track condition.

mid-transfer seek to the next track and then restart the read/write operation at sector

RKO05 subsystem provides

The hardware will cause a
O of the next track. Note that

this seek is either a head switch from the upper surface to the lower surface on the
same cylinder with no head
positioner movement, or a switch from lower surface to upper surface with a positioner
movement to the next
cylinder. The RLO1/RLO2 subsystem hardware cannot handle this. If a read/write
operation continues past the
40th sector, the sector counter in the DA register advances to 50 (octal) which
is illegal and therefore sets the
OPI error flag. It is necessary for the software to 1) prevent this from occurring
by calculating the remaining
area left versus the amount of data left before the operation or 2) to detect that it
has occurred. The software must
Initiate a separate seek functio
and
n initiate a continuance of the read/write function. A head switch from the
upper to the lower surface without a positioner movement is considered a
seek in the RLO1/RLO2 subsystem.
After a head switch, the positioner will seek the center of the new track.
5.6.2

Implicit Seeks Versus Explicit Seeks
The RKO5 subsystem can perform either implicit or explicit seeks. An explicit

operation. An implicit seek is a seek initiated by the hardware at the beginning

seek is a software directed seek
of a read/write operation if the

desired position is different from the present position. The RLO1/RL02 subsystem
The software must ensure that the positioner is over the desired cylinder and

before starting a read/write operation.

cannot do an implicit seek.
that the desired head is selected

5.6.3
Recalibrate
The RKO5 subsystem has a return to zero or recalibrate function which causes

the positioner to move to cylinder
0. There is no similar function in the RLO1/RL02 subsystem. An explicit
seek to cylinder zero must be
performed. If the current cylinder address is not known and the drive is
commanded to seek beyond the outer
guard band, this guard band will be detected and the head will retreat to
cylinder zero.

5.6.4 Bad Sector File
There is a bad sector file feature on each RLO1/RL02 disk cartrid ge. Its use

is no standard Bad Sector File used with the RKOS.

is explained in Paragraph 1.6. There

5.6.5
Reformatting
The RKOS cartridge can be reformatted in the field while the RLO1K/RLO2K
servo information
and Bad Sector File features greatly reduce the need

cartridges cannot. The imbedded

to reformat in the field.

5.6.6
Seek Interrupt
The RKO5 will provide two interrupts as the result of a seek operation. The first

controller has caused the drive to start its movement, indicating that

interrupt occurs as soon as the

the controller is free to handle another

function. The second interrupt occurs when the drive finishes the seek movement
. The RLO1/RLO2 subsystem
does not provide the second interrupt. Thus, the software must perform the proper
monitoring of the drive to
determine when the seek has been completed.

5-20

APPENDIX A

RL11 CONFIGURATION AND INSTALLATION CONSIDERATIONS
A.1

SPC CONSIDERATIONS

SPC slot. Early SPCs
The RL11 is a Small Peripheral Controller (SPC) but does not unconditionally fit into anythat
only four
were always quad height modules or combinations of smaller (single or dual) modules htinvolved
e. Many
backplan
rows. Thus, the standard pin assignments applied only to rows C, D, E and F on a hex-heigand B be vacant
since
A
new options, such as the RL11, are hex-height modules and therefore require that rows
require
options
ht
some SPC slots use rows A and B for Unibus cables or power connectors. Some hex-heig
(MUD) pinning. In the
standard Unibus pinning on rows A and B and some require Modified Unibus Device Thus,
these rows can be
case of the RL11, the only connections used on rows A and B are the + 5v and ground.
either standard Unibus or MUD pinning.

and therefore
The early SPCs did not utilize Direct Memory Access (DMA) data transfers to/from memory
as the RL11,
such
options,
those signals were not part of the original SPC pin assignments. Some of the newer
If the
signals.
these
includes
that
do utilize DMA transfers. There is a new pin assignment called SPC PRIME
are
signals
following
the
that
RL.11 isto be used in an older (non SPC-PRIME) slot then it 1s necessary to ensure
wired on the backpane.

Pin CA1 — NPG In
Pin CB1 — NPG Out
Pin FJ1 — NPR
Pin CV1 — AC LO
Pin CUI — +15v

ed across
If the slot has SPC PRIME pinning then another precaution must be taken. NPG continuity is maintain
removed
be
must
jumper
This
CB1.
pin
to
an empty SPC PRIME slot by a backplane jumper from pin CA1
1s
module
the
if
added
be
must
jumper
the
and
whenever a DMA-type option is installed, such as an RL11,
empty
all
of
D
row
in
used
card
y
Continuit
Grant
Bus
removed. This consideration is in addition to the normal
SPC slots.

URATION CONSIDERATIONS

CONFIG
l option
When configuring a Unibus system for the best priority assignments, two characteristics of a periphera
of
function
a
is
time
(T1
time
T1
the
and
rate
transfer
word
must be taken into consideration. These are the peak
d)
onds/wor
microsec
(3.9
kHz
256
of
rate
transfer
peak
a
has
the peak transfer rate and the silo size). The RL11
and a T1 time of 62.4 microseconds. This dictates its position in the priority scheme. The recommended priority
A.2

scheme is listed below.
CPU

Memory

RK11/RKO05
TM11/TU10

TC11/TUS6
RL11/RLO1-RLO2
RJS04
RMO2

RJP04

RK611/RK06-RKO7
RP11C/RPO3
RJSO3

TIU16

RF11/RS11
DB11

A-1

Other general configuration rules are:
®

OnaPDP-11 Unibus, a combination of two disk subsystems and a tape or floppy disk subsystem is

considered maximum.

OnaPDP-11/70 system, one Unibus disk subsystem is considered maximum if there are Massbus
disks.

A disk subsystem should not be installed beyond a bus expander.

A-2

RL01/RL02 DISK SUBSYSTEM

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EK-RL012-UG-002

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