Digital PDFs

EK-TRBOC-MG-005

September 1991

249 pages

Original

1.7MB

Document:	TurboChannel Maint Guide
Order Number:	EK-TRBOC-MG
Revision:	005
Pages:	249
Original Filename:

OCR Text

EK-TRBOC-MG-005

TURBOchannel
Maintenance Guide

digital equipment corporation
maynard, massachusetts

First printing, September 1990
Revised, October 1990
Revised, April 1991
Revised, October 1991
The information in this document is subject to change without notice and should
not be construed as a commitment by Digital Equipment Corporation. Digital
Equipment Corporation assumes no responsibility for any errors that may appear
in this document.
The software described in this document is furnished under a license and may be
used or copied only in accordance with the terms of such license.
Digital Equipment Corporation assumes no responsibility for the use or reliability
of its software on equipment that is not supplied by Digital or its affiliated
companies.

USA
This equipment generates, uses, and may emit radio frequency energy. The
equipment has been type tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class
A computing device pursuant to Subpart J of Part 15 of FCC Rules, which
are designed to provide reasonable protection against such radio frequency
interference. Operation of this equipment in a residential area may cause
interference in which case the user at his own expense will be required to take
whatever measures may be required to correct the interference.

The following are trademarks of Digital Equipment Corporation:

DEC
DECnet
DECstation
DECsystem
DECUS
MicroVAX
MicroVMS

PDP
ThinWire
TURBOchannel
ULTRIX
ULTRIX-32
UNIBUS
VAX

VAXBI
VAXcluster
VAXstation
VMS
VT

Contents
Using This Guide . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

xiii

1 Working with TURBOchannel Option Modules
TURBOchannel Option Module Hardware . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
TURBOchannel Hardware Configurations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
How to Remove and Install Option Module Hardware . . . . .
To Remove and Install an Option Module . . . . . . . . . . . . .
To Remove and Install an ESAR Chip . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
To Remove and Install a VSIMM or z-Buffer Module on
a Graphics Module . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

1–2
1–3
1–6
1–6
1–8
1–10

Part I Graphics Modules
2 Monochrome Frame-Buffer Graphics Module
Monochrome Frame-Buffer Graphics Module Hardware . . . .
Combining Monochrome Frame Buffer Modules and
Monitors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Troubleshooting a Monochrome Frame-Buffer Graphics
Module . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Individual Monochrome Frame-Buffer Graphics Module
Tests . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Cursor Test . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Cursor test error messages . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Font Test . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Font test error messages . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

2–2
2–2
2–3
2–5
2–6
2–6
2–7
2–7

iii

Interrupt Test . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Interrupt test error messages . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Monochrome Frame-Buffer Patterns Test . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Monochrome frame-buffer patterns test error
messages . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Initialize Video Digital-to-Analog Converter (VDAC)
Test . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Initialize VDAC test error messages . . . . . . . . . . .
Video RAM Test . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Video RAM test error messages . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

2–7
2–7
2–8
2–8
2–9
2–9
2–10
2–10

3 Color Frame-Buffer Graphics Module
Color Frame-Buffer Graphics Hardware . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Combining Color Frame Buffer Modules and
Monitors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Troubleshooting a Color Frame-Buffer Graphics Module . . .
Individual Color Frame-Buffer Graphics Module Tests . . . . .
Box Test . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Box test error messages . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Cursor Test . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Cursor test error messages . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Font Test . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Font test error messages . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Interrupt Test . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Interrupt test error messages . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Color Frame-Buffer Patterns Test . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Color frame-buffer patterns test error
messages . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Initialize Video Digital-to-Analog Converter (VDAC)
Test . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Initialize VDAC test error messages . . . . . . . . . . .
Video RAM Test . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Video RAM test error messages . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

3–2
3–2
3–4
3–6
3–7
3–7
3–7
3–7
3–8
3–8
3–8
3–8
3–9
3–9
3–11
3–11
3–12
3–12

4 Two-Dimensional Graphics Accelerator Modules
2D Graphics Accelerator Module Hardware . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Combining 2D Graphics Accelerator Modules and
Monitors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Troubleshooting a 2D Graphics Accelerator Module . . . . . . .
Individual 2D Graphics Accelerator Module Tests . . . . . . . . .

4–2
4–2
4–4
4–6

Direct Memory Access (DMA) Address Lines Test . . . . . .
DMA address lines test error messages . . . . . . . . .
Video Memory Data Path Test . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Video memory data path test error messages . . . .
VSIMM Read and Write Test . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
VSIMM read and write test error messages . . . . .
Stamp Interface Chip (STIC) Interrupt and DMA
Test . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
STIC interrupt and DMA test error messages . . .
2D Graphics Accelerator Patterns Test . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
2D graphics accelerator patterns test error
messages . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Shade and Half-Space Test . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Shade and half-space test error messages . . . . . . .
Stamp Chip Arithmetic Logic Unit (ALU) Test . . . . . . . .
Stamp chip ALU test error messages . . . . . . . . . . .
Stamp Interface Chip (STIC) Read and Write Test . . . . .
STIC read and write test error messages . . . . . . .
Video Digital-to-Analog Converter (VDAC) Read and
Write Test . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
VDAC read and write test error messages . . . . . .
Video Digital-to-Analog Converter (VDAC) Analog
Output and Signature Test . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
VDAC analog output and signature test error
messages . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

4–7
4–7
4–8
4–8
4–10
4–10
4–12
4–12
4–13
4–13
4–15
4–15
4–18
4–18
4–20
4–20
4–22
4–22
4–26
4–26

5 Smart Frame-Buffer Graphics Module
Smart Frame-Buffer Graphics Module Hardware . . . . . . . . .
Smart Frame-Buffer Module Versions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Smart Frame-Buffer Jumpers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Troubleshooting a Smart Frame-Buffer Graphics Module . . .
Individual Smart Frame-Buffer Graphics Module
Self-Tests . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Video RAM Test . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Video RAM test error messages . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Video Random-Access Memory Digital-to-Analog
Converter (RAMDAC) Test . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Video RAMDAC test error messages . . . . . . . . . . .
Patterns Test . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Patterns test error messages . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Box Test . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Box test error messages . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

5–2
5–2
5–5
5–7
5–8
5–9
5–9
5–11
5–12
5–13
5–14
5–15
5–15

Font Test . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Font test error messages . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Register Test . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Register test error messages . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Interrupt Test . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Interrupt test error messages . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Stipple Mode Test . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Stipple mode test error messages . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Line Draw Mode Test . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Line draw mode test error messages . . . . . . . . . . .
Area Copy Mode Test . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Copy mode test error messages . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Boolean Operation Test . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Boolean operation test error messages . . . . . . . . . .
Planemask Test . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Planemask test error messages . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Pixel Shift Test . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Pixel shift test error messages . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Crosshair Cursor Utility . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Ras Test . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Background Test . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Test Scripts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
cnsltest Script . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
pst-m Script . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
pst-v Script . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Special Notes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

5–16
5–16
5–17
5–17
5–18
5–18
5–19
5–19
5–21
5–22
5–24
5–24
5–26
5–27
5–28
5–28
5–29
5–29
5–31
5–32
5–33
5–34
5–34
5–35
5–36
5–36

6 Three-Dimensional Graphics Modules
Low and Mid 3D Graphics Module Hardware . . . . . . . . . . . .
Low 3D Graphics Module Hardware . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Combining Low 3D Graphics Modules and Monitors . . . .
Mid 3D Graphics Module Hardware . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Combining Mid 3D Graphics Modules and Monitors . . . .
High 3D Graphics Module Hardware . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Combining High 3D Graphics Modules and Monitors . . .
Troubleshooting a Low 3D or Mid 3D Graphics Module . . . .
Troubleshooting a High 3D Graphics Module . . . . . . . . . . . . .
How to Upgrade from a Low to a Mid 3D Graphics
Module . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Individual 3D Graphics Module Self-Tests . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Dispatch Utility . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Dispatch utility error messages . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

6–2
6–4
6–4
6–6
6–6
6–8
6–8
6–10
6–13
6–15
6–18
6–19
6–19

VSIMM Address and Data Path Test . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
VSIMM address and data path test error
messages . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
i860 Direct Memory Access (DMA) Test . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
i860 DMA test error messages . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Full Frame-Buffer Test . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Full frame-buffer test error messages . . . . . . . . . .
i860-Host Interrupt Test . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
i860-host interrupt test error messages . . . . . . . . .
Stamp Interface Chip (STIC) DMA Address Test . . . . . . .
STIC DMA address test error messages . . . . . . . .
Stamp Interface Chip (STIC) Read and Write Test . . . . .
STIC read and write test error messages . . . . . . .
i860 Stamp Interface Chip (STIC) Interrupt Test . . . . . .
i860 STIC interrupt test error messages . . . . . . . .
Stamp Interface Chip (STIC) Interrupt Test . . . . . . . . . . .
STIC interrupt test error messages . . . . . . . . . . . .
3D Patterns Test . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
3D patterns test error messages . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
3D Shade Test . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Shade and half-space test error messages . . . . . . .
Static RAM (SRAM) Test . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Static RAM test error messages . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
SRAM Fill Test . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
SRAM fill test error messages . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
3D Stamp Test . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
3D stamp test error messages . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Stamp Interface Chip (STIC) Registers Test . . . . . . . . . . .
STIC registers test error messages . . . . . . . . . . . .
Load ROM Code Utility . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Load ROM code utility error messages . . . . . . . . .
3D Configuration Table Utility . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
3D configuration table utility error messages . . . .
3D Video Digital-to-Analog Converter (VDAC) Test . . . . .
3D VDAC test error messages . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Video Digital-to-Analog Converter (VDAC) Signature
Test . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
VDAC signature test error messages . . . . . . . . . . .

6–20
6–20
6–22
6–22
6–24
6–24
6–26
6–26
6–27
6–27
6–28
6–28
6–30
6–30
6–31
6–31
6–32
6–32
6–33
6–33
6–35
6–35
6–37
6–37
6–39
6–39
6–41
6–41
6–43
6–44
6–46
6–46
6–48
6–48
6–50
6–50

vii

Part II Communications Controllers
7 Ethernet Controllers
Ethernet Controller Hardware . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Troubleshooting an Ethernet Controller Module . . . . . . . . . .
Individual Ethernet Controller Tests . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Collision Test . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Collision test error messages . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Cyclic Redundancy Code (CRC) Test . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
CRC test error messages . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Ethernet Station Address ROM (ESAR) Test . . . . . . . . . .
ESAR test error messages . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
External Loopback Test . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
External loopback test parameters and error
codes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Interrupt Request (IRQ) Test . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
IRQ test parameters and error codes . . . . . . . . . . .
Internal Loopback Test . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Internal loopback test parameters and error
codes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Multicast Test . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Multicast test error messages . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Promiscuous Mode Test . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Promiscuous mode test error messages . . . . . . . . .
Ethernet RAM Test . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Ethernet RAM test error messages . . . . . . . . . . . .
Registers Test . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Registers test error messages . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

7–2
7–4
7–5
7–6
7–6
7–7
7–7
7–9
7–9
7–10
7–10
7–12
7–12
7–13
7–13
7–15
7–15
7–17
7–17
7–19
7–19
7–20
7–20

Part III SCSI Controllers
8 SCSI Controllers
SCSI Controller Hardware . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Troubleshooting a SCSI Controller . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Individual SCSI Controller and Drive Tests . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
SCSI Controller Test . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
SCSI controller test error messages . . . . . . . . . . . .
SCSI RAM Test . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
SCSI RAM test error messages . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

viii

8–2
8–4
8–5
8–6
8–6
8–7
8–7

SCSI Send Diagnostics Test . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
SCSI send diagnostics test error messages . . . . . .
SCSI Target Test . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
SCSI target test error messages . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

8–9
8–9
8–11
8–11

Part IV Drives
9 System Drives
Drive Hardware . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Troubleshooting the Drives . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
SCSI Send Diagnostics Test . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Send diagnostics test error messages . . . . . . . . . . .
SCSI Target Test . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
SCSI target test error messages . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Removing and Installing Drive Expansion Boxes . . . . . . . . . .
How to Remove a Drive Expansion Box . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
How to Install a Drive Expansion Box . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
For Further Information . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

9–2
9–7
9–8
9–8
9–10
9–11
9–12
9–12
9–14
9–16

Part V Monitors
10 The Monitors
Combining Monitors and TURBOchannel Graphics
Modules . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Troubleshooting the Monitor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Testing the Monitor Display . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Displaying Patterns for Adjusting the Monitor . . . . . . . . . . .
Displaying Patterns for Adjusting a Monitor Connected
to a Monochrome Frame-Buffer Graphics Module . . . . . .
Displaying Patterns for Adjusting a Monitor Connected
to a Color Frame-Buffer Graphics Module . . . . . . . . . . . .
Displaying Patterns for Adjusting a Monitor Connected
to a Two-Dimensional Graphics Accelerator or 3D
Graphics Module . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Individual Monitors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
VRT16 Monitor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
VRT19 Monitor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
VRM17 monitor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
VR262 Monitor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

10–2
10–3
10–5
10–6
10–6
10–7
10–9
10–10
10–10
10–13
10–16
10–18

VR297 Monitor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
VR299 Monitor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
VR319 Monitor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
VR320 Monitor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

10–20
10–22
10–24
10–26

A Recommended Spares List
Index
Figures
1-1
1-2
1-3
1-4
1-5
1-6
1-7
1-8
2-1
3-1
3-2
4-1
4-2
5-1
6-1
6-2
6-3
6-4
6-5
6-6
x

TURBOchannel expansion slots on the
DECstation/DECsystem 5000 Model 200 system
module . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Possible configurations that include 3D option modules . . . . .
Possible configurations that include a 2D graphics accelerator
module . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Possible configurations that include color frame-buffer
modules . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Possible configurations that include monochrome frame-buffer
modules . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Removing and installing an option module . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Removing and installing an ESAR chip . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Removing and replacing a VSIMM or z-buffer module on a
graphics module . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Monochrome frame-buffer graphics module . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Color frame buffer TURBOchannel module . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Color frame-buffer graphics module . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Two-dimensional graphics accelerator module . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Removing and replacing a VSIMM on a two-dimensional
graphics accelerator module . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Smart frame-buffer graphics module . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Slot numbers for VSIMM and z-buffer modules on low and
mid 3D graphics modules . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Low 3D graphics module . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Mid 3D graphics module . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
High 3D graphics module . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Inserting a VDAC onto a low 3D graphics module . . . . . . . . .
3D graphics module jumper settings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

1–2
1–4
1–4
1–5
1–5
1–6
1–9
1–11
2–4
3–3
3–5
4–3
4–5
5–6
6–3
6–5
6–7
6–9
6–16
6–17

7-1
8-1
9-1
9-2
9-3
9-4
9-5
9-6
10-1
10-2
10-3
10-4
10-5
10-6
10-7
10-8

ThickWire Ethernet controller option module . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
SCSI controller option module . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
BA42 expansion box . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
RRD40 box . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
BA40 expansion box . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
TLZ04 box . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Removing a drive expansion box . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Installing a drive . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
VRT16 monitor features . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
VRT19 monitor features . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
VRM17 monitor features . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
VR262 monitor features . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
VR297 monitor features . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
VR299 monitor features . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
VR319 monitor features . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
VR320 monitor features . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

7–3
8–3
9–3
9–4
9–5
9–6
9–12
9–15
10–11
10–14
10–16
10–18
10–20
10–22
10–24
10–26

Conventions Used in This Guide . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Figures of Possible Configurations for Graphics Modules . . . .
Monochrome Frame-Buffer Tests . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Cursor Test Error Codes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Monochrome Frame-Buffer Patterns Test Error Codes . . . . . .
Initialize VDAC Registers Test Error Codes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Video RAM Test Error Codes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Color Frame-Buffer Tests . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Cursor Test Error Codes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Color Frame-Buffer Patterns Test Error Codes . . . . . . . . . . . .
Initialize VDAC Registers Test Error Codes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Video RAM Test Error Codes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
2D Graphics Accelerator Tests . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
DMA Address Lines Test Error Codes and Descriptions . . . . .
Video Memory Data Path Test Error Codes and
Descriptions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
VSIMM Read and Write Test Error Codes and
Descriptions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
STIC Interrupt Test Error Codes and Descriptions . . . . . . . . .

xiv
1–3
2–5
2–6
2–8
2–9
2–10
3–6
3–7
3–10
3–11
3–12
4–6
4–7

Tables
1
1-1
2-1
2-2
2-3
2-4
2-5
3-1
3-2
3-3
3-4
3-5
4-1
4-2
4-3
4-4
4-5

4–9
4–10
4–12

4-6
4-7
4-8
4-9
4-10
4-11
5-1
5-2
5-3
5-4
5-5
5-6
5-7
5-8
5-9
5-10
5-11
5-12
5-13
6-1
6-2
6-3
6-4
6-5
6-6
6-7
6-8
6-9
6-10
6-11
6-12
6-13
6-14
6-15
6-16
6-17
6-18

xii

2D Graphics Accelerator Patterns Test Error Codes and
Descriptions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Shade and Half-Space Test Error Codes and Descriptions . . .
Stamp Chip ALU Test Error Codes and Descriptions . . . . . . .
STIC Read and Write Test Error Codes and Descriptions . . .
VDAC Read and Write Test Error Codes and Descriptions . .
VDAC Analog Output and Signature Test Error Codes and
Descriptions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Characteristics of Each Smart Frame-Buffer Version . . . . . . .
Smart Frame-Buffer Graphics Module Tests . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Video RAM Subtests . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Video RAMDAC Subtests . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Patterns Subtests . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Box Subtests . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Interrupt Subtests . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Stipple Mode Subtests . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Line Draw Mode Subtests . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Copy Mode Subtests . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Boolean Functions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Boolean Operation Subtests . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Pixel Shift Subtests . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
3D Graphics Tests . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Dispatch Utility Descriptions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
VSIMM Address and Data Path Test Error Descriptions . . . .
i860 DMA Test Error Descriptions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Full Frame-Buffer Test Error Descriptions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
i860-Host Interrupt Test Error Descriptions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
STIC DMA Address Test Error Descriptions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
STIC Read and Write Test Error Descriptions . . . . . . . . . . . . .
i860 STIC Interrupt Test Error Descriptions . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
STIC Interrupt Test Error Descriptions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
3D Patterns Test Error Descriptions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Shade and Half-Space Test Error Descriptions . . . . . . . . . . . . .
SRAM Test Error Descriptions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
SRAM Fill Test Error Descriptions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
3D Stamp Test Error Descriptions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
STIC Registers Test Error Descriptions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Load ROM Code Utility Error Descriptions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
3D Build Configuration Table Utility Error Descriptions . . . .

4–14
4–15
4–18
4–20
4–22
4–27
5–4
5–8
5–9
5–11
5–13
5–15
5–18
5–19
5–22
5–24
5–26
5–27
5–29
6–18
6–19
6–21
6–23
6–25
6–26
6–27
6–28
6–30
6–31
6–32
6–33
6–36
6–38
6–40
6–42
6–45
6–47

6-19
6-20
7-1
7-2
7-3
7-4
7-5
7-6
7-7
7-8
7-9
7-10
7-11
8-1
8-2
8-3
8-4
8-5
10-1
10-2
10-3
10-4
10-5
10-6
10-7
10-8
10-9
10-10
A-1
A-2
A-3
A-4
A-5
A-6

3D VDAC Test Error Descriptions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
VDAC Signature Test Error Descriptions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Ethernet Controller Tests . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Collision Test Error Codes and Descriptions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
CRC Test Error Codes and Descriptions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
ESAR Test Error Codes and Descriptions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
External Loopback Test Error Codes and Descriptions . . . . . .
IRQ Test Error Codes and Descriptions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Internal Loopback Test Error Codes and Descriptions . . . . . .
Multicast Test Error Codes and Descriptions . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Promiscuous Mode Test Error Codes and Descriptions . . . . . .
Ethernet RAM Test Error Codes and Descriptions . . . . . . . . .
Registers Test Error Codes and Descriptions . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Individual SCSI Tests . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
SCSI Controller Error Decriptions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
SCSI RAM Test Error Descriptions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
SCSI Send Diagnostics Test Error Descriptions . . . . . . . . . . . .
SCSI Target Test Error Description . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Correcting Simple Monitor Problems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Troubleshooting When the Monitor Has No Display . . . . . . . .
Controls and Connectors on the VRT16 Monitor . . . . . . . . . . .
Controls and Connectors on the VRT19 Monitor . . . . . . . . . . .
Controls and Connectors on the VRM17 Monitor . . . . . . . . . . .
Controls and Connectors on the VR262 Monitor . . . . . . . . . . .
Controls and Connectors on the VR297 Monitor . . . . . . . . . . .
Controls and Connectors on the VR299 Monitor . . . . . . . . . . .
Controls and Connectors on the VR319 Monitor . . . . . . . . . . .
Controls and Connectors on the VR320 Monitor . . . . . . . . . . .
TURBOchannel Option Modules . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Basic Components . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Cords, Cables, and Connectors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Loopback Connectors, Plugs, Test Media, and Miscellaneous
Items . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Software Documentation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Hardware Documentation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

6–48
6–51
7–5
7–6
7–8
7–9
7–11
7–12
7–14
7–16
7–18
7–20
7–21
8–5
8–6
8–8
8–10
8–12
10–3
10–4
10–12
10–15
10–17
10–19
10–21
10–23
10–25
10–27
A–1
A–2
A–3
A–3
A–4
A–4

xiii

Using This Guide

Intended Audience
This guide is for Digital customer service representatives
who have completed training in DECstation/DECsystem
maintenance. This guide assumes that you are familiar with
basic maintenance and troubleshooting operations and that you
have experience with desktop computer systems.

How To Use This Guide
This guide explains how to identify and replace failed field
replaceable units (FRUs) for TURBOchannel option modules.
For an overview of TURBOchannel configurations and how to
remove and replace TURBOchannel option modules refer to
Chapter 1, ‘‘Working with TURBOchannel Option Modules.’’
For a description of the hardware, troubleshooting procedures,
and individual tests for a specific option module, refer to the
chapter that discusses the FRU in which you are interested.
See the table of contents for a list of the option modules
discussed in this guide.

xiii

For equipment part numbers and a recommended spares list,
refer to Appendix A.
Table 1. Conventions Used in This Guide

xiv

Convention

Use

Monospace
type

Anything that appears on your monitor screen
is set in monospace type, like this.

Boldface
type
Italic type

Anything you are asked to type is set in boldface
type, like this.
Any part of a command that you replace with an actual
value is set in italic type, like this.

1
Working with TURBOchannel Option
Modules
This chapter discusses
Uses for TURBOchannel option module hardware
Possible combinations of TURBOchannel option modules
How to remove and install TURBOchannel option modules

Working with TURBOchannel Option Modules 1–1

TURBOchannel Option Module Hardware
TURBOchannel is a group of option modules that operate on
any base system that has TURBOchannel option slots. You
can combine TURBOchannel option modules to create different
configurations for individual systems.
Option module
System module

expansion slots

WSETM001

Figure 1-1. TURBOchannel expansion slots on the DECstation/DECsystem
5000 Model 200 system module

1–2 Working with TURBOchannel Option Modules

TURBOchannel Hardware Configurations
You can add option modules to a base system until the
TURBOchannel expansion slots are full. However, you must
follow these restrictions when you install graphics modules:
Do not combine 3D graphics modules with other graphics
modules.
Combine color frame-buffer graphics modules only with
other color frame-buffer modules or modules that are not
graphics modules.
Combine monochrome frame-buffer graphics modules only
with other monochrome frame-buffer modules or modules
that are not graphics modules.
Combine 2D graphics accelerator modules only with other
2D graphic accelerator modules or modules that are not
graphics modules.
Table 1-1 lists which figure shows the possible combinations for
each type of graphics module.
Table 1-1. Figures of Possible Configurations for Graphics Modules
Graphics Module

Figure That Shows Possible Configurations

3D graphics
2D graphics
accelerator
Color frame-buffer
module
Monochrome framebuffer

Figure 1-2
Figure 1-3
Figure 1-4
Figure 1-5

Working with TURBOchannel Option Modules 1–3

One low or mid three-dimensional

Any module other than

graphics module

a graphics module

Option slot 0

Option slot 1

Option slot 2

One high three-dimensional graphics module

Option slot 0

Option slot 1

Option slot 2

Indicates that slot number does
not appear in configuration display.

WSETM002

Figure 1-2. Possible configurations that include 3D option modules

Option slot 1

Option slot 2

One 2D graphics

Any module other than

accelerator module

a graphics module

Option slot 0

Option slot 1

Option slot 2

Any module other than

One 2D graphics

Any module other than

a graphics module

accelerator module

a graphics module

WSETM010

Figure 1-3. Possible configurations that include a 2D graphics
accelerator module

1–4 Working with TURBOchannel Option Modules

Option slot 0

Option slot 1

Option slot 2

One color frame-buffer

module

Any module other than

a graphics module

WSETM008

Figure 1-4. Possible configurations that include color frame-buffer
modules
Option slot 0

Option slot 1

Option slot 2

One mono frame-buffer

module

Any module other than

a graphics module

WSETM009

Figure 1-5. Possible configurations that include monochrome framebuffer modules

Working with TURBOchannel Option Modules 1–5

How to Remove and Install Option Module Hardware
To remove and install an option module, refer to ‘‘To Remove
and Install an Option Module’’ for directions.
To remove and install an ESAR chip, refer to ‘‘To Remove and
Install an ESAR Chip’’ in the next section in this chapter.
To remove and install a video inline memory module, which
commonly is refered to as a VSIMM, on a graphics module,
refer to ‘‘To Remove and Install a VSIMM or z-Buffer Module
on a Graphics Module’’ later in this chapter.
To Remove and Install an Option Module
Figure 1-6 shows how to remove and install an option module.
Caution: Always follow antistatic procedures when handling an
option module or other static-sensitive device.

5
6

WSE2M030

Figure 1-6. Removing and installing an option module

1–6 Working with TURBOchannel Option Modules

To remove an option module,
1.
2.

3.
4.
5.
6.

Turn off the system unit and remove the system unit cover.
If the module is a ThickWire Ethernet option module, save
the ESAR chip for installation onto the new ThickWire
option module. Refer to ‘‘To Remove and Install an ESAR
Chip’’ later in this chapter for an explanation of how to
remove the ESAR chip.
Disconnect any external cables connected to the option
module.
Remove the screws that hold the option module to the
support posts.
Remove the screws that hold the option module to the back
of the system unit.
Grip the option module end near the expansion slot and
pull the option module out of the slot. If necessary, gently
rock the module to loosen it.

To install an option module,
1.
2.

3.
4.
5.
6.
7.

Turn off the system unit and remove the system unit cover.
If there is a blank plate over the opening for the option
module connector, remove the two screws and remove the
plate.
Pass the option module cable connector through the opening
on the back of the system unit.
Firmly press the end of the option module that connects to
the system module into the expansion slot.
Insert and tighten the screws that hold the option module
to the back of the system unit.
Insert the screws that hold the option module to the
support posts.
If the module is a ThickWire Ethernet module, insert the
ESAR chip from the old ThickWire Ethernet option module
onto the new ThickWire Ethernet option module. Refer to
‘‘To Remove and Install an ESAR Chip’’ later in this chapter
for an explanation of how to install an ESAR chip.

Working with TURBOchannel Option Modules 1–7

Reconnect any external cables that were attached to the
original option module. If you reconnect a video cable to a
graphics module, make sure that the DIGITAL logo faces
up when you connect the cable.

To Remove and Install an ESAR Chip
Figure 1-7 shows how to remove and install an ESAR chip on a
ThickWire Ethernet option module.
To remove an ESAR chip,
1.

Locate the ESAR chip on the Ethernet controller module.
Note that the notch in the ESAR chip faces the ThickWire
Ethernet connector.
Pry the ESAR chip loose from the ThickWire Ethernet
option module.

To insert an ESAR chip,
1.

Align the ESAR chip over the ESAR socket on the
ThickWire Ethernet controller option module. Make sure
that the notch on the ESAR chip faces the ThickWire
Ethernet connector.
Evenly press the pins on the ESAR chip into the ESAR
socket. Be careful not to bend the pins on the ESAR chip.

1–8 Working with TURBOchannel Option Modules

ThickWire Ethernet
connector

Front view

ThickWire ESAR chip

Ethernet expansion
slot connector

Back view
WSE2M028

Figure 1-7. Removing and installing an ESAR chip

Working with TURBOchannel Option Modules 1–9

To Remove and Install a VSIMM or z-Buffer Module on a
Graphics Module
Figure 1-8 shows how to remove and install a VSIMM or
z-buffer module on a 2D graphics accelerator or 3D graphics
module.
To remove a VSIMM or z-buffer module from a graphics module,
firmly grip each end of the VSIMM or z-buffer module and pull
it out of its connector.
To install a VSIMM or z-buffer module onto a graphics module,
1.

3.
4.

Find the proper slot for the VSIMM or z-buffer module.
The connector on the module is the same color as the slot
connector into which you are installing the module.
VSIMM connectors are black.
z-buffer module connectors are gray.
Align the VSIMM or z-buffer module so that the bent leads
on the VSIMM or z-buffer module face the video cable
connector.
Push the VSIMM or z-buffer module all the way into the
connector on the graphics module.
After you install the VSIMM or z-buffer module, make sure
that the new module appears in the configuration display.
Type cnfg and press Return. If the new VSIMM or z-buffer
module is missing from the configuration display, make sure
that the VSIMM or z-buffer module is inserted correctly.

1–10 Working with TURBOchannel Option Modules

Bent leads on VSIMM must face
graphic module video cable connector

Graphics module
video cable
connector
WSE2M061

Figure 1-8. Removing and replacing a VSIMM or z-buffer module on a
graphics module

Working with TURBOchannel Option Modules 1–11

Part I
Graphics Modules

2
Monochrome Frame-Buffer Graphics
Module
This chapter discusses the following items for the monochrome
frame-buffer graphics module:
Module hardware
Troubleshooting procedures
Individual self-tests

Monochrome Frame-Buffer Graphics Module 2–1

Monochrome Frame-Buffer Graphics Module Hardware
The monochrome frame buffer TURBOchannel module
generates monochrome graphics.
The workstation can support as many monochrome frame
buffer graphics modules as there are available option slots on
the system module. Do not combine monochrome frame-buffer
modules with other types of graphics modules.
If the system has more than one monochrome frame-buffer
module, the monitor connected to the graphics module that has
the lowest slot number acts as the console. Any error messages
about the other graphics modules will appear on the console
monitor.
To operate monochrome frame buffer option modules, the
workstation must use ULTRIX version 4.2 or higher.
Combining Monochrome Frame Buffer Modules and Monitors
The following 72-Hz monitors can display graphics generated
by the monochrome frame buffer graphics module:
VR319-DA monochrome monitor
VRM17-AA monochrome monitor
Figure 2-1 shows the monochrome frame-buffer graphics
module and its connectors.

2–2 Monochrome Frame-Buffer Graphics Module

Troubleshooting a Monochrome Frame-Buffer Graphics
Module
If an error message lists curs, int, or vdac as the test that failed,
replace the monochrome frame-buffer graphics module that
has the slot number that appears in the error message. Refer
to ‘‘How to Remove and Install Option Module Hardware’’ in
Chapter 1 for directions.
If an error message lists ptrns as the test that failed, the
problem is in the monitor or video cable. Refer to Chapter 10 to
troubleshoot.
For a detailed explanation of an error message, refer to the
section later in this chapter that describes the individual test
that failed.

Monochrome Frame-Buffer Graphics Module 2–3

Video cable connector

Front view

Back view
WSETM007

Figure 2-1. Monochrome frame-buffer graphics module

2–4 Monochrome Frame-Buffer Graphics Module

Individual Monochrome Frame-Buffer Graphics Module Tests
The following pages explain each individual monochrome
frame-buffer test and its command and error messages.
Table 2-1 lists the name and command for each individual
monochrome frame-buffer graphics module test.
Table 2-1. Monochrome Frame-Buffer Tests
Test Name

Test Command1

Cursor test
Font test
Interrupt test
Monochrome frame-buffer patterns
test
Initialize video-to-analog converter
(VDAC) test
Video RAM test

t slot_number/curs
t slot_number/font [character]
t slot_number/int
t slot_number/ptrn [action]
t slot_number/vdac
t slot_number/vram [pattern]

1 The slot_number variable represents the slot number of the monochrome frame-

buffer module.

Monochrome Frame-Buffer Graphics Module 2–5

Cursor Test
The cursor test checks the cursor RAM. To run the cursor test,
type t slot_number/curs, where you replace slot_number with
the monochrome frame-buffer graphics module slot number, and
press Return.
Cursor test error messages

Cursor test error messages have the form
?TFL: slot_number/curs (code: exp=x adr=y) PMAG-BA
?TFL slot_number/curs indicates that the cursor test
reported an error. slot_number represents the slot number
of the graphics module that reported the error.
code represents a code that identifies which portion of the
test failed.
The exp value is the expected cursor RAM contents.
The adr value is the actual cursor RAM contents.
PMAG-BA is the monochrome frame-buffer graphics module
identifier.
Table 2-2 lists error codes used in cursor test error messages.
Table 2-2. Cursor Test Error Codes
Error Code

Meaning

1
2
3

Test failed to read ID or initialize VDAC.
Cursor RAM failed incremented values test.
Cursor RAM failed decremented values test.

2–6 Monochrome Frame-Buffer Graphics Module

Font Test
The font test fills the monitor screen with a specified character
that you can display when you adjust the monitor. To run the
font test, type t slot_number/font [character] and press Return.
When you type the font test command,
Replace slot_number with the monochrome frame-buffer
graphics module slot number.
Replace the optional character parameter with the
hexadecimal value for the specific character you want to
display.
Specify 37 to display a screen filled with the letter E.
Specify 40 to display a screen filled with the letter H.
Specify no additional parameters to have the entire font
scroll across the screen.
Font test error messages

The font test is used for adjusting the monitor and generates no
error messages.
Interrupt Test
The interrupt test attempts to initialize the VDAC interrupt
line. To run the interrupt test, type t slot_number/int, where
you replace slot_number with the monochrome frame-buffer
graphics module slot number, and press Return.
Interrupt test error messages

The only interrupt test error message is ?TFL: slot_number/int
(1) PMAG-BA, which indicates that the CPU did not receive the
interrupt.

Monochrome Frame-Buffer Graphics Module 2–7

Monochrome Frame-Buffer Patterns Test
The monochrome frame-buffer patterns test displays a series of
patterns on the monitor. To run the monochrome frame-buffer
patterns test, type t slot_number/ptrn action and press Return.
When you type the monochrome frame-buffer patterns test,
Replace slot_number with the monochrome frame-buffer
graphics module slot number.
Replace action with a value that specifies how the test
displays patterns.
Specify 0 to display all patterns continuously.
Specify 1 to have each pattern remain on the screen
until you press any key on the keyboard.
Monochrome frame-buffer patterns test error messages

Patterns test error messages have the form
?TFL: slot_number/ptrns (code: exp=x adr=y) PMAG-BA
?TFL slot/ptrns indicates that the patterns test reported an
error.
code represents a code that identifies which portion of the
test failed.
The exp value is the expected cursor RAM contents.
The adr value is the actual cursor RAM contents.
PMAG-BA is monochrome frame-buffer graphics module
identifier.
Table 2-3 lists error codes used in monochrome frame-buffer
patterns test error messages.
Table 2-3. Monochrome Frame-Buffer Patterns Test Error Codes
Error Code

Meaning

1
4
10

Monochrome bars test failed.
White screen test failed.
Pseudo-gray scales test failed.

2–8 Monochrome Frame-Buffer Graphics Module

Initialize Video Digital-to-Analog Converter (VDAC) Test
The initialize video digital-to-analog converter (VDAC) test
initializes and tests the VDAC registers. To run the initialize
VDAC test, type t slot_number/vdac, where you replace
slot_number with the slot number of the monochrome framebuffer graphics module, and press Return.
Initialize VDAC test error messages

Initialize VDAC test error messages have the form
?TFL: slot_number/vdac (code, P1=x, P2=y, P3=z) PMAG-BA
?TFL slot/vdac indicates that the vdac test reported an
error.
code represents a number that identifies which portion of
the test failed.
The P1 value is the VDAC register contents.
The P2 value is the VDAC address low register contents.
The P3 value is the VDAC address high register contents.
PMAG-BA is the monochrome frame-buffer graphics module
identifier.
Table 2-4 lists error codes used in initialize VDAC error
messages.
Table 2-4. Initialize VDAC Registers Test Error Codes
Error Code

Meaning

1
2

Test could not initialize color map.
Test could not initialize overlay map.

Monochrome Frame-Buffer Graphics Module 2–9

Video RAM Test
The video RAM test performs a read and write operation
on the video RAM. To run the video RAM test, type t slot_
number/vram [pattern] and press Return.
When you type the video RAM test command,
Replace slot_number with the graphics module slot number.
Replace pattern with the pattern you want to use for the
last test pass.
Video RAM test error messages

Video RAM test error messages have the form
?TFL: slot_number/vram (code, addr=xxxxxxxx, exp=yyyyyyyy,
act=zzzzzzzz) PMAG-BA
?TFL slot_number/vram indicates that the video RAM test
reported an error. slot_number represents the slot number
of the monochrome frame-buffer module that reported the
error.
code represents a code that identifies which portion of the
test failed.
The addr value is the RAM address where the failure
occurred.
The exp value is the expected RAM contents.
The act value is the actual RAM contents.
PMAG-BA is the monochrome frame-buffer graphics module
identifier.
Table 2-5 lists error codes used in video RAM test error
messages.
Table 2-5. Video RAM Test Error Codes
Error Code

Meaning

1
2
3

Error occurred during write loop.
Values in memory miscompared.
Complemented values in memory miscompared.

2–10 Monochrome Frame-Buffer Graphics Module

3
Color Frame-Buffer Graphics Module
This chapter discusses the following items for the color framebuffer graphics module:
Module hardware
Troubleshooting procedures
Individual self-tests

Color Frame-Buffer Graphics Module 3–1

Color Frame-Buffer Graphics Hardware
Color frame buffer TURBOchannel modules generate twodimensional color graphics.
The workstation can support as many color frame buffer
modules as there are TURBOchannel slots on the system
module. Do not combine a color frame-buffer module with a
different type of graphics module.
If the system has more than one color frame-buffer module, the
monitor connected to the graphics module that has the lowest
slot number acts as the console.
To operate more than one color frame buffer module, the
workstation must use ULTRIX version 4.2 or higher.
Combining Color Frame Buffer Modules and Monitors
There are two types of color frame buffer TURBOchannel
modules, module type PMAG-BA and PMAG-JA. The module
type is printed on the front of the color frame buffer module.
Module type PMAG-BA operates at 60 Hz. The following
monitors can display graphics generated by the PMAG-BA
color frame buffer module:
VR262-AA gray-scale monitor
VR297-DA color monitor
VR299-DA color monitor
Module type PMAGB-JA, which is also known as the true
color frame buffer module, operates at 72 Hz. The following
monitors can display graphics generated by the PMAG-JA
true color frame buffer module:
VRT16-HA color monitor
VRT19-HA color monitor
VR319-DA monochrome monitor
VR320-CA color monitor

3–2 Color Frame-Buffer Graphics Module

Video cable connector

Front view

Option slot connector

Back view
WSE2M027

Figure 3-1. Color frame buffer TURBOchannel module

Figure 3-2 shows the color frame-buffer graphics option module
and its connectors.

Color Frame-Buffer Graphics Module 3–3

Troubleshooting a Color Frame-Buffer Graphics Module
If a color frame-buffer graphics module reports an error in the
curs, int, or vdac test, replace the color frame-buffer graphics
module. Refer to ‘‘How to Remove and Install Option Module
Hardware’’ in Chapter 1 for directions.
If a color frame-buffer graphics module returns an error code
that includes ptrn, the problem is in the monitor or video cable.
Refer to Chapter 10 to troubleshoot.
To obtain detailed information about the failure, use the
individual graphics tests described in ‘‘Individual Color FrameBuffer Graphics Module Tests’’ later in this chapter.

3–4 Color Frame-Buffer Graphics Module

Video cable connector

Front view

Option slot connector

Back view
WSE2M027

Figure 3-2. Color frame-buffer graphics module

Color Frame-Buffer Graphics Module 3–5

Individual Color Frame-Buffer Graphics Module Tests
The following pages explain each individual color frame-buffer
test and its command and error messages.
Table 3-1 lists the name and command for each individual color
frame-buffer graphics module test.
Table 3-1. Color Frame-Buffer Tests
Test Name

Test Command1

Box test
Cursor test
Font test
Interrupt test
Color frame-buffer patterns test
Initialize video-to-analog converter
(VDAC) test
Video RAM test

slot/box
slot/curs
slot/font [character]
slot/int
slot/ptrn [action]
slot/vdac
slot/vram [pattern]

1 The slot variable represents the slot number of the failed controller or module.

3–6 Color Frame-Buffer Graphics Module

Box Test
The box test displays a grid of vertical and horizontal lines
of pixels at the monitor perimeter. To run the box test, type
t slot/box, where slot represents the color frame-buffer graphics
module slot number, and press Return.
Box test error messages

The box test is used for adjusting the monitor and generates no
error messages.
Cursor Test
The cursor test checks the cursor RAM. To run the cursor test,
type t slot/curs, where slot represents the color frame-buffer
graphics module slot number, and press Return.
Cursor test error messages

Cursor test error messages have the form
?TFL: slot/curs (code: exp=x adr=y) PMAG-AA
?TFL slot/curs indicates that the cursor test reported an
error.
code represents a code that identifies which portion of the
test failed.
The exp value is the expected cursor RAM contents.
The adr value is the actual cursor RAM contents.
PMAG-AA is the color frame-buffer graphics module
identifier.
Table 3-2 lists error codes used in cursor test error messages.
Table 3-2. Cursor Test Error Codes
Error Code

Meaning

1
2
3
4

Test failed to read ID or initialize VDAC.
Cursor RAM failed incremented values test.
Cursor RAM failed decremented values test.
Cursor signature analysis failed.

Color Frame-Buffer Graphics Module 3–7

Font Test
The font test fills the monitor screen with a specified character
that you can display when you adjust the monitor. To run the
font test, type t slot/font [character] and press Return.
When you type the font test command,
Replace slot with the color frame-buffer graphics module
slot number.
Replace the optional character parameter with the
hexadecimal value for the specific character you want to
display.
Specify 37 to display a screen filled with the letter E.
Specify 40 to display a screen filled with the letter H.
Specify no additional parameters to have the entire font
scroll across the screen.
Font test error messages

The font test is used for adjusting the monitor and generates no
error messages.
Interrupt Test
The interrupt test attempts to initialize the VDAC interrupt
line. To run the interrupt test, type t slot/int, where slot
represents the color frame-buffer graphics module slot number,
and press Return.
Interrupt test error messages

The only interrupt test error message is ?TFL: slot/int (1)
PMAG-BA, which indicates that the CPU did not receive the
interrupt.

3–8 Color Frame-Buffer Graphics Module

Color Frame-Buffer Patterns Test
The color frame-buffer patterns test displays a series of
patterns on the monitor. To run the color frame-buffer patterns
test, type t slot/ptrn action and press return
When you type the color frame-buffer patterns test,
Replace slot with the color frame-buffer graphics module
slot number.
Replace the action parameter with a value that specifies
how the test displays patterns.
Specify 0 to display all patterns continuously.
Specify 1 to have each pattern remain on the screen
until you press any key on the keyboard.
Color frame-buffer patterns test error messages

Patterns test error messages have the form
?TFL: slot/ptrns (code: exp=x adr=y) PMAG-AA
?TFL slot/ptrns indicates that the patterns test reported an
error.
code represents a code that identifies which portion of the
test failed.
The exp value is the expected cursor RAM contents.
The adr value is the actual cursor RAM contents.
PMAG-AA is the color frame-buffer graphics module
identifier.
Table 3-3 lists error codes used in color frame-buffer patterns
test error messages.

Color Frame-Buffer Graphics Module 3–9

Table 3-3. Color Frame-Buffer Patterns Test Error Codes
Error Code

Meaning

1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10

Color bars test failed.
Gray-scale bars test failed.
Red screen test failed.
Green screen test failed.
Blue screen test failed.
Blue-red screen test failed.
Blue-red to blue-green pattern test failed.
Red-green to blue-green test failed.
Red-green to red-blue test failed.
White test failed.

3–10 Color Frame-Buffer Graphics Module

Initialize Video Digital-to-Analog Converter (VDAC) Test
The initialize video digital-to-analog converter (VDAC) test
initializes and tests the VDAC registers. To run the initialize
VDAC test, type t slot/vdac, where you replace slot with the
slot number of the graphics module, and press Return.
Initialize VDAC test error messages

Initialize VDAC test error messages have the form
?TFL: slot/vdac (code, P1=x, P2=y, P3=z) PMAG-AA
?TFL slot/vdac indicates that the vdac test reported an
error.
code represents a code that identifies which portion of the
test failed.
The P1 value is the VDAC register contents.
The P2 value is the VDAC address low register contents.
The P3 value is the VDAC address high register contents.
PMAG-AA is the color frame-buffer graphics module
identifier.
Table 3-4 lists error codes used in initialize VDAC error
messages.
Table 3-4. Initialize VDAC Registers Test Error Codes
Error Code

Meaning

1
2
3
4
5
6
7

Test could not read ID register.
Test could not initialize command registers.
Test could not initialize cursor command registers.
Test could not initialize cursor RAM.
Test could not initialize color map.
Test could not initialize overlay map.
Test could not initialize cursor palette.

Color Frame-Buffer Graphics Module 3–11

Video RAM Test
The video RAM test performs a read and write operation on
the video RAM. To run the video RAM test, type t slot/vram
[pattern] and press Return.
When you type the video RAM test command,
Replace slot with the graphics module slot number.
Replace pattern with the pattern you want to use for the
last test pass.
Video RAM test error messages

Video RAM test error messages have the form
?TFL: slot/vram (code, addr=xxxxxxxx, exp=yyyyyyyy,
act=zzzzzzzz) PMAG-AA
?TFL slot/vram indicates that the video RAM test reported
an error.
code represents a code that identifies which portion of the
test failed.
The addr value is the RAM address where the failure
occurred.
The exp value is the expaected RAM contents.
The act value is the actual RAM contents.
PMAG-AA is the color frame-buffer graphics module
identifier.
Table 3-5 lists error codes used in video RAM test error
messages.
Table 3-5. Video RAM Test Error Codes
Error Code

Meaning

1
2
3

Error occurred during write loop.
Values in memory miscompared.
Complemented values in memory miscompared.

3–12 Color Frame-Buffer Graphics Module

4
Two-Dimensional Graphics Accelerator
Modules
This chapter discusses the following item for the twodimensional (2D) graphics accelerator module:
Module hardware
Troubleshooting procedures
Individual self-tests

Two-Dimensional Graphics Accelerator Modules 4–1

2D Graphics Accelerator Module Hardware
The 2D graphics accelerator module rapidly generates highresolution, two-dimensional, 256-color graphics.
Each 2D graphics accelerator module holds one VSIMM that
connects to a 120-pin connector on the two-dimensional graphics
accelerator module. This VSIMM has 1.25 Mbytes of DRAM
and 1.25 Mbytes of VRAM.
The workstation can support as many 2D graphics accelerator
modules as there are available TURBOchannel slots on the
system module. Do not combine the 2D graphics accelerator
module with other types of graphics modules.
For the 2D graphics accelerator module to work correctly, your
workstation must use ULTRIX version 4.0 or higher.
Combining 2D Graphics Accelerator Modules and Monitors
The following 66-Hz monitors can display graphics generated
by the 2D graphics accelerator TURBOchannel module:
VRT16-DA color monitor
VRT16-HA color monitor
VRT19-DA color monitor
VRT19-HA color monitor
VR319-CA monochrome monitor
VR320-CA color monitor
Figure 4-1 shows the two-dimensional graphics accelerator
module and its connectors.

4–2 Two-Dimensional Graphics Accelerator Modules

Graphics module video

VSIMM

cable connector

Base graphics module

Front view

VSIMM

Base graphics module

Back view
WSE2M053

Figure 4-1. Two-dimensional graphics accelerator module

Two-Dimensional Graphics Accelerator Modules 4–3

Troubleshooting a 2D Graphics Accelerator Module
If a 2D graphics accelerator module reports an error in the
stic test, the problem is in the two-dimensional graphics
accelerator module or the system module. Insert the twodimensional graphics accelerator module in another option
slot and repeat the two-dimensional graphics accelerator
test script.
If the two-dimensional graphics accelerator module
reports no errors in the new slot, replace the system
module.
If the two-dimensional graphics accelerator module
in the new slot still returns an error message that
includes stic, replace the two-dimensional graphics
accelerator module.
If a 2D graphics accelerator module reports an error in one
of the following tests, replace the two-dimensional graphics
accelerator module:
dmaaddrs
intr-dma
shade
stamp
vdac
If a 2D graphics accelerator module reports an error in
the fb, fbfill, or vdacsig test, the problem is possibly in the
VSIMM. Insert a good VSIMM on the two-dimensional
graphics accelerator module. Figure 4-2 shows how
to install a VSIMM onto the two-dimensional graphics
accelerator module.
After you insert a new VSIMM, run the graphics test
script to check the new VSIMM. Type sh slot/pst-t, where
you replace slot with the slot number of the 2D graphics
accelerator module.
If the fb or fbfill test still reports an error, replace the 2D
graphics accelerator module. Refer to ‘‘How to Remove
and Install Option Module Hardware’’ in Chapter 1 for
directions.

4–4 Two-Dimensional Graphics Accelerator Modules

If the monitor display has missing or extra pixels, replace
the VSIMM. If the problem persists after you replace the
VSIMM, replace the two-dimensional graphics accelerator
module.
Bent leads on VSIMM must face the
graphic module video cable connector

VSIMM

VSIMM connector

Graphics module
video cable
connector

WSE2M054

Figure 4-2. Removing and replacing a VSIMM on a two-dimensional
graphics accelerator module

Two-Dimensional Graphics Accelerator Modules 4–5

Individual 2D Graphics Accelerator Module Tests
The following sections explain the command and error message
format for each 2D graphics accelerator module test.
Table 4-1 lists the name and command for each individual 2D
graphics accelerator test.
Table 4-1. 2D Graphics Accelerator Tests
Test Name

Test Command

Direct memory access (DMA) address lines
test
Video memory data path test
VSIMM read and write test
2D graphics accelerator patterns test
Shade and half-space test
Stamp chip arithmetic logic unit (ALU) test
Stamp interface chip (STIC) read and write
test
Video digital-to-analog converter (VDAC)
read and write test
Video digital-to-analog converter (VDAC)
analog output and signature test

slot/dmaaddrs

4–6 Two-Dimensional Graphics Accelerator Modules

slot/fb
slot/fbfill [pattern] [buffer]
slot/patrns [action]
slot/shade
slot/stamp
slot/stic
slot/vdac
slot/vdacsig

Direct Memory Access (DMA) Address Lines Test
The direct memory access (DMA) address lines test checks the
STIC DMA address lines. To run the DMA address lines test,
type slot/dmaaddrs, where slot represents the slot number of
the 2D graphics accelerator module, and press Return.
DMA address lines test error messages

DMA address lines test error messages have the form
?TFL: slot/dmaaddrs (n: description)
?TFL slot/dmaaddrs indicates that the DMA address lines
test reported an error.
The n represents a code that identifies which portion of the
test failed.
description represents additional information that describes
the error.
Table 4-2 lists the error codes and descriptions used in DMA
address lines test error messages.
Table 4-2. DMA Address Lines Test Error Codes and Descriptions
Error Code and Description

Meaning

(1: sticEOP=0, exp=1)

STIC did not set the end-of-packet bit
during STIC DMA.
STIC reported that it was busy when it
should not have been.
STIC did not set the end-of-packet bit
during STIC DMA.
STIC reported that it was busy when it
should not have been.
Error occurred in a STIC DMA address line.
The x represents a mask that identifies the
specific lines that reported the error.

(1: ?dma= sticbsy)
(2: sticEOP=0, exp=1)
(2: ?dma= sticbsy)
(3: addrMsk= x)

Two-Dimensional Graphics Accelerator Modules 4–7

Video Memory Data Path Test
The video memory data path test checks the data path and
address path to the video memory. To run the video memory
data path test, type t slot/fb [buffer] and press Return.
When you type the video memory data path test command,
Replace slot with the slot number of the 2D graphics
accelerator module.
Replace buffer with the value that specifies the buffer you
want to test.
Specify 0 to test the VRAM.
Specify 1 to test the DRAM.
Specify an asterisk (*) to test both buffers.
Video memory data path test error messages

Video memory data path test error messages have the form
?TFL: slot/fb (n: description)
?TFL slot/fb indicates that the video memory data path test
reported an error.
The n represents a code that identifies which portion of the
test failed.
description represents additional information that describes
the error.

4–8 Two-Dimensional Graphics Accelerator Modules

Table 4-3 lists error codes and messages used in video memory
data path test error messages.
Table 4-3. Video Memory Data Path Test Error Codes and Descriptions
Error Code and Description

Meaning

(1: sticEOP=0, exp=1)

STIC did not set end-of-packet bit in STIC
DMA.
STIC reported that it was busy when it
should not have been.
STIC did not set the end-of-packet bit in
STIC DMA.
STIC reported that it was busy when it
should not have been.
DMA did not send pixel data to the expected
system memory address.
Pixel data miscompare occurred. The pxl
value is the actual pixel data. The exp
value is what the pixel data should have
been.
STIC did not set the end-of-packet bit in
STIC DMA.
STIC reported it was busy when it should
not have been.
STIC did not set the end-of-packet bit in
STIC DMA.
STIC reported it was busy when it should
not have been.
DMA did not send pixel data to the expected
system memory address.
Error occurred in an address line. The x
is a mask that indicates the address line
where the error occurred. The N represents
the buffer where the error occurred.

(1: ?dma= sticbsy)
(2: sticEOP=0, exp=1)
(2: ?dma= sticbsy)
(2: ?dma= NoPxls)
(3: pxl[N]= x:exp= y)

(4: sticEOP=0, exp=1)
(4: ?dma= sticbsy)
(5: sticEOP=0, exp=1)
(5: ?dma= sticbsy)
(5: ?dma= NoPxls)
(6: addrMsk= x, buff=N)

Two-Dimensional Graphics Accelerator Modules 4–9

VSIMM Read and Write Test
The VSIMM read and write test checks all the memory cells in
a video frame buffer. To run the VSIMM read and write test,
type t slot/fbfill [pattern] [buffer] and press Return.
VSIMM read and write test error messages

VSIMM read and write test error messages have the form
?TFL: slot/fbfill (n: description)
?TFL slot/fbfill indicates that the VSIMM read and write
test reported an error.
The n represents a code that identifies which portion of the
test failed.
description represents additional information that describes
the error.
Table 4-4 lists error codes and descriptions used in VSIMM
read and write cells test error messages.
Table 4-4. VSIMM Read and Write Test Error Codes and Descriptions
Error Code and Description

Meaning

(1: sticEOP=0, exp=1)

STIC did not set the end-of-packet bit in the
STIC interrupt register.
STIC reported it was busy when it should
not have been.
STIC did not set the end-of-packet bit in the
STIC interrupt register.
STIC reported it was busy when it should
not have been.
DMA did not send pixel data to the expected
system memory address.

(1: ?dma= sticbsy)
(2: sticEOP=0, exp=1)
(2: ?dma= sticbsy)
(2: ?dma=NoPxls)

(continued on next page)

4–10 Two-Dimensional Graphics Accelerator Modules

Table 4-4 (Cont.). VSIMM Read and Write Test Error Codes and
Descriptions
Error Code and Description

Meaning

(3: pxl[x,y]= z1: exp= z2)

Pixel miscompare occurred.
The x and y values represent the x and
y coordinates of the pixel involved in
the miscompare.
The z1 value is the actual pixel data.
The z2 value is what the pixel data
should be.

Two-Dimensional Graphics Accelerator Modules 4–11

Stamp Interface Chip (STIC) Interrupt and DMA Test
The stamp interface chip (STIC) interrupt and DMA test uses
the STIC chip to check DMA and to perform vertical retrace and
end-of-packet interrupt operations. To run the STIC interrupt
and DMA test, type t slot /intr-dma, where slot represents the
slot number of the 2D graphics accelerator module, and press
Return.
STIC interrupt and DMA test error messages

STIC interrupt and DMA test error messages have the form
?TFL: slot/intr-dma (n description)
?TFL slot/intr-dma indicates that the STIC interrupt and
DMA test reported an error.
The n represents a code that identifies which portion of the
test failed.
description represents additional information that describes
the error.
Table 4-5 lists the error codes and descriptions used in STIC
interrupt test error messages.
Table 4-5. STIC Interrupt Test Error Codes and Descriptions
Error Code and Description

Meaning

(1: mb_sticint= 0: exp= 1)

STIC failed to interrupt the CPU during a
vertical blanking interval.
The vertical interrupt bit did not get set in
the STIC interrupt register.
STIC did not set the end-of-packet bit in the
STIC interrupt register.
STIC reported that it was busy when it
should not have been.
DMA did not send pixel data to the expected
system memory address.

(2: sticint= N: exp= 1)
(3: sticEOP=0, exp=1)
(4: ?dma= sticbsy)
(5: ?dma=NoPxls)

4–12 Two-Dimensional Graphics Accelerator Modules

2D Graphics Accelerator Patterns Test
The 2D graphics accelerator patterns test displays a series of
patterns on the monitor. To run the 2D graphics accelerator
patterns test, type slot/patrns [action] and press Return.
When you type the 2D graphics accelerator patterns command,
Replace slot with the slot number of the 2D graphics
accelerator module.
Replace the optional action parameter with a value that
specifies how the patterns are displayed.
Specify 0 to display the patterns continuously.
Specify 1 to have each pattern remain on the monitor
screen until you press any key on the keyboard.
2D graphics accelerator patterns test error messages

2D graphics accelerator patterns test error messages have the
form ?TFL: slot/patrns (n: description)
?TFL slot/patrns indicates that the 2D graphics accelerator
patterns test reported an error.
The n represents a code that identifies which portion of the
test failed.
description represents additional information that describes
the error.
Table 4-6 lists error codes and descriptions used in 2D graphics
accelerator patterns test error messages.
In these error messages, M represents the portion of the 2D
graphics accelerator test that failed to set the end-of-packet bit.
N represents the portion of the test that reported that the STIC
was busy when it should not have been.

Two-Dimensional Graphics Accelerator Modules 4–13

Table 4-6. 2D Graphics Accelerator Patterns Test Error Codes and
Descriptions
Error Code and Description

Meaning

(M: sticEOP=0, exp=1)

STIC did not set end-of-packet bit in STIC
interrupt register.
STIC reported it was busy when it should
not have been.

(N: ?dma= sticbsy)

4–14 Two-Dimensional Graphics Accelerator Modules

Shade and Half-Space Test
The shade and half-space test checks the ability of the stamp
chip to produce smooth shades and calculate half-space
coordinates. To run the shade and half-space test, type
slot/shade, where slot represents the slot number of the 2D
graphics accelerator module, and press Return.
Shade and half-space test error messages

Shade and half-space test error messages have the form
?TFL: slot/shade (n: description)
?TFL slot/shade indicates that the shade and half-space test
reported an error.
The n represents a code that identifies which portion of the
test failed.
description represents additional information that describes
the error.
Table 4-7 describes the error codes and descriptions used in
shade and half-space test error messages.
Table 4-7. Shade and Half-Space Test Error Codes and Descriptions
Error Code and Description

Meaning

(1: sticEOP=0, exp=1)

STIC did not set end-of-packet bit in the
STIC interrupt register.
STIC reported that it was busy when it
should not have been.
STIC did not set the end-of-packet bit in the
STIC interrupt register.
STIC reported that it was busy when it
should not have been.
DMA operation did not send pixels to the
expected system memory address.
The system discovered a miscompare when
drawing a smooth, shaded triangle to the
RGB buffer. The indx value is a code that
identifies the failed pixel.

(1: ?dma= sticbsy)
(2: sticEOP=0, exp=1)
(2: ?dma= sticbsy)
(2: ?dma= NoPxls)
(3: tri smth shd err, indx=0)

(continued on next page)

Two-Dimensional Graphics Accelerator Modules 4–15

Table 4-7 (Cont.). Shade and Half-Space Test Error Codes and
Descriptions
Error Code and Description

Meaning

(4: tri smth shd err, indx=N )

The system discovered a miscompare when
drawing a smooth, shaded triangle to the
RGB-buffer. The indx value is a code that
identifies the failed pixel.
The system discovered a miscompare when
drawing a smooth, shaded triangle to the
RGB-buffer. The indx value is a code that is
a code that identifies the failed pixel.
STIC did not set the end-of-packet bit in the
STIC interrupt register.
STIC reported that it was busy when it
should not have been.
STIC did not set the end-of-packet bit in the
STIC interrupt register.
STIC reported that it was busy when it
should not have been.
DMA operation did not send pixels to the
expected system memory address.
The system discovered a miscompare when
drawing a smooth, shaded triangle to the
z-buffer. The indx value is a code that
identifies the failed pixel.
The system discovered a miscompare when
drawing a smooth, shaded triangle to the
z-buffer. The indx value is a code that
identifies the failed pixel.
The system discovered a miscompare when
drawing a smooth, shaded triangle to the
z-buffer. The indx value is a code that
identifies the failed pixel.
STIC did not set the end-of-packet bit in the
STIC interrupt register.
STIC reported that it was busy when it
should not have been.
STIC did not set the end-of-packet bit in
STIC interrupt register.

(5: tri smth shd err, indx=N )

(6: sticEOP=0, exp=1)
(6: ?dma= sticbsy)
(7: sticEOP=0, exp=1)
(7: ?dma= sticbsy)
(7: ?dma= NoPxls)
(8: Zbuff tri smth shd err,
indx=0)
(9: zbuff tri smth shd err,
indx=N )
(10: zbuff tri smth shd err,
indx=N )
(12: sticEOP=0, exp=1)
(12: ?dma= sticbsy)
(13: sticEOP=0, exp=1)

(continued on next page)

4–16 Two-Dimensional Graphics Accelerator Modules

Table 4-7 (Cont.). Shade and Half-Space Test Error Codes and
Descriptions
Error Code and Description

Meaning

(13: ?dma= sticbsy)

STIC reported that it was busy when it
should not have been.
STAMP chip did not calculate the halfspace coordinates of an unaligned triangle
correctly.

(14: hlf_spc=x, exp= y,
line=M, pxl= N)

The x represents the actual pixel data.
The y represents the expected pixel
data.
The M represents the line where the
error occurred.
The N represents the pixel where the
error occurred.
(15: sticEOP=0, exp=1)
(15: ?dma= sticbsy)
(16: sticEOP=0, exp=1)
(16: ?dma= sticbsy)
(17: zbuf hlf_spc=x, exp= y,
line=M, pxl= N)

STIC did not set the end-of-packet bit in the
STIC interrupt register.
STIC reported that it was busy when it
should not have been.
STIC did not set the end-of-packet bit in the
STIC interrupt register.
STIC reported that it was busy when it
should not have been.
STAMP chip did not calculate the z-buffer
half-space coordinates of an unaligned
triangle correctly.
The x represents the actual pixel data.
The y represents the expected pixel
data.
The M represents the line where the
error occurred.
The N represents the pixel where the
error occurred.

Two-Dimensional Graphics Accelerator Modules 4–17

Stamp Chip Arithmetic Logic Unit (ALU) Test
The stamp chip arithmetic logic unit (ALU) test checks stamp
chip ALU operation and the data and address lines between the
STIC and STAMP chips. To run the stamp chip ALU test, type
t slot/stamp, where slot represents the slot number of the 2D
graphics accelerator module, and press Return.
Stamp chip ALU test error messages

Stamp chip ALU test error messages have the form
?TFL: slot/stamp (n: description)
?TFL slot/stamp indicates that the stamp chip ALU test
reported an error.
The n represents a code that identifies which portion of the
test failed.
description represents additional information that describes
the error.
Table 4-8 lists error codes and descriptions used in stamp ALU
test error messages.
Table 4-8. Stamp Chip ALU Test Error Codes and Descriptions
Error Code and Description

Meaning

(1: ?dma= sticbsy)

STIC reported that it was busy when it
should not have been.
STIC did not set the end-of-packet bit in the
STIC interrupt register.
STIC reported that it was busy when it
should not have been.
STIC did not set the end-of-packet bit in the
STIC interrupt register.
STIC reported that it was busy when it
should not have been.
DMA operation did not send pixel data to
the expected system memory address.

(2: sticEOP=0, exp=1)
(2: ?dma= sticbsy)
(3: sticEOP=0, exp=1)
(3: ?dma= sticbsy)
(3: ?dma= NoPxls)

(continued on next page)

4–18 Two-Dimensional Graphics Accelerator Modules

Table 4-8 (Cont.). Stamp Chip ALU Test Error Codes and Descriptions
Error Code and Description

Meaning

(4: ALU [#N]=
x, exp =y)

Results of an ALU operation were incorrect.

(5: sticEOP=0, exp=1)

STIC did not set the end-of-packet bit in the
STIC interrupt register.
STIC reported that it was busy when it
should not have been.
STIC did not set the end-of-packet bit in the
STIC interrupt register.
STIC reported that it was busy when it
should not have been.
STIC did not set the end-of-packet bit in the
STIC interrupt register.
STIC reported that it was busy when it
should not have been.
DMA operation did not send pixel data to
the expected system memory address.
Data sent through the SDAL lines resulted
in a miscompare. The SDAL value is the
actual data in the SDAL line. The exp value
is what the data in the SDAL line should
be.
STIC did not set the end-of-packet bit in the
STIC interrupt register.
STIC reported that it was busy when it
should not have been.

(5: ?dma= sticbsy)
(6: sticEOP=0, exp=1)
(6: ?dma= sticbsy)
(7: sticEOP=0, exp=1)
(7: ?dma= sticbsy)
(7: ?dma= NoPxls)
(8: SDAL= x: exp= y)

(9: sticEOP=0, exp=1)
(9: ?dma= sticbsy)

The ALU value is the actual result
of the ALU operation. N represents
a number that indicates the specific
function that failed. The x value is the
actual result of the ALU operation.
The exp value is what the result of the
ALU operation should be.

Two-Dimensional Graphics Accelerator Modules 4–19

Stamp Interface Chip (STIC) Read and Write Test
The stamp interface chip (STIC) read and write test performs a
read and write operation through the 32-bit data path to the 2D
graphics accelerator module and then performs a STIC self-test.
To run the STIC read and write test, type t slot/stic, where
slot represents the slot number of the 2D graphics accelerator
module, and press Return.
STIC read and write test error messages

STIC read and write test error messages have the form
?TFL: slot/stic (n: description)
?TFL slot/stic indicates that the STIC read and write test
reported an error.
The n represents a code that identifies which portion of the
test failed.
description represents additional information that describes
the error.
Table 4-9 lists error codes and descriptions used in STIC read
and write test error messages.
Table 4-9. STIC Read and Write Test Error Codes and Descriptions
Error Code and Description

Meaning

(1: sticCSR=x: exp= 0)

Miscompare occurred reading the STIC
CSR. The expected sticCSR value was 0.
Miscompare occurred reading the STIC
CSR. The expected sticCSR value was ff.
Miscompare occurred reading the STIC
CSR. The exp value is what the value in the
CSR should be.
The signature value that the self-test
read at 2000 iterations is incorrect. The
x represents the actual signature value that
the test read. The y represents what the
signature value should be.

(1: sticCSR=x: exp= ff)
(1: sticCSR=x: exp= y)
(2: sig@2000= x: exp= y)

(continued on next page)

4–20 Two-Dimensional Graphics Accelerator Modules

Table 4-9 (Cont.). STIC Read and Write Test Error Codes and Descriptions
Error Code and Description

Meaning

(2: sig@20000= x: exp= y)

The signature value that the self-test read
at 20,000 iterations is incorrect. The x
represents the actual signature value that
the test read. The y represents what the
signature value should be.

Two-Dimensional Graphics Accelerator Modules 4–21

Video Digital-to-Analog Converter (VDAC) Read and Write
Test
The video digital-to-analog converter (VDAC) read and write
test performs a read and write operation on the VDAC chip
and color map. To run the VDAC read and write test, type
t slot/vdac, where slot represents the slot number of the 2D
graphics accelerator module, and press Return.
VDAC read and write test error messages

VDAC read and write test error messages have the form
?TFL: slot/vdac (n: description)
?TFL slot/vdac indicates that the VDAC read and write test
reported an error.
The n represents a code that identifies which portion of the
test failed.
description represents additional information that describes
the error.
Table 4-10 lists the error codes and descriptions found in VDAC
read and write test error messages.
Table 4-10. VDAC Read and Write Test Error Codes and Descriptions
Error Code and Description

Meaning

(1: vdacID= x: exp= 4a
<addrlo= y, addrhi= z>)

A read operation on the VDAC ID register did not
return the correct value, which is 4a.
The x represents the actual value that the test
read.
The y represents the value in the VDAC address
low register.
The z represents the value in the VDAC address
high register.
(continued on next page)

4–22 Two-Dimensional Graphics Accelerator Modules

Table 4-10 (Cont.). VDAC Read and Write Test Error Codes and Descriptions
Error Code and Description

Meaning

(2: vdacreg= x: exp= 4a
<addrlo= y, addrhi= z>)

A read operation on the VDAC command register did
not return the correct value, which is 4a.
The x represents the actual value that the test
read.
The y represents the value in the VDAC address
low register.
The z represents the value in the VDAC address
high register.

(3: Rcmap= x: exp= y
<addrlo= z1, addrhi= z2>)

A miscompare occurred during the decrementing red
part of the color map read and write test.
The x represents the actual value the test read
from the color map.
The y represents the value the test should have
read from the color map.
The z1 represents the value in the VDAC address
low register.
The z2 represents the value in the VDAC address
high register.

(4: Gcmap= x: exp= y
<addrlo= z1, addrhi= z2>)

A miscompare occurred during the decrementing green
part of the color map read and write test.
The x represents the actual value the test read
from the color map.
The y represents the value the test should have
read from the color map.
The z1 represents the value in the VDAC address
low register.
The z2 represents the value in the VDAC address
high register.
(continued on next page)

Two-Dimensional Graphics Accelerator Modules 4–23

Table 4-10 (Cont.). VDAC Read and Write Test Error Codes and Descriptions
Error Code and Description

Meaning

(5: Bcmap= x: exp= y
<addrlo= z1, addrhi= z2>)

A miscompare occurred during the decrementing blue
part of the color map read and write test.
The x represents the actual value the test read
from the color map.
The y represents the value the test should have
read from the color map.
The z1 represents the value in the VDAC address
low register.
The z2 represents the value in the VDAC address
high register.

(6: Rcmap= x: exp= y
<addrlo= z1, addrhi= z2>)

A miscompare occurred during the incrementing red
part of the color map read and write test.
The x represents the actual value the test read
from the color map.
The y represents the value the test should have
read from the color map.
The z1 represents the value in the VDAC address
low register.
The z2 represents the value in the VDAC address
high register.
(continued on next page)

4–24 Two-Dimensional Graphics Accelerator Modules

Table 4-10 (Cont.). VDAC Read and Write Test Error Codes and Descriptions
Error Code and Description

Meaning

(7: Gcmap= x: exp= y
<addrlo= z1, addrhi= z2>)

A miscompare occurred during the incrementing green
part of the color map read and write test.
The x represents the actual value the test read
from the color map.
The y represents the value the test should have
read from the color map.
The z1 represents the value in the VDAC address
low register.
The z2 represents the value in the VDAC address
high register.

(8: Bcmap= x: exp= y
<addrlo= z1, addrhi= z2>)

A miscompare occurred during the incrementing blue
part of the color map read and write test.
The x represents the actual value the test read
from the color map.
The y represents the value the test should have
read from the color map.
The z1 represents the value in the VDAC address
low register.
The z2 represents the value in the VDAC address
high register.

Two-Dimensional Graphics Accelerator Modules 4–25

Video Digital-to-Analog Converter (VDAC) Analog Output
and Signature Test
The video digital-to-analog converter (VDAC) analog output
and signature test checks the analog output from the VDAC
and the VDAC signature while colors are being displayed on
the monitor. To run the VDAC output and signature test, type
t slot /vdacsig, where slot represents the slot number of the 2D
graphics accelerator module, and press Return.
VDAC analog output and signature test error messages

VDAC analog output and signature test error messages have
the form ?TFL: slot/vdacsig (n description)
?TFL slot/vdacsig indicates that the VDAC analog output
and signature test reported an error.
The n represents a code that identifies which portion of the
test failed.
description represents additional information that describes
the error.
Table 4-11 describes the error codes and error descriptions
found in VDAC analog output and signature test error
messages.

4–26 Two-Dimensional Graphics Accelerator Modules

Table 4-11. VDAC Analog Output and Signature Test Error Codes and
Descriptions
Error Code and Description

Meaning

(1: sticEOP= 0: exp= 1)

STIC did not set the end-of-packet interrupt
bit in the STIC interrupt register.
STIC reported it was busy when it should
not have been.
Signature pattern is incorrect.

(1: ?dma= sticBSY)
(2: Pxl#= N: patt= x:
R[exp]=act: G[exp]= act:
B[exp]=act)

The patt value is the pixel pattern in
the VSIMM.
N represents the number of the pixel
with the problem signature pattern.
The R, G, and B values indicate the
actual and expected values for the R,
G, and B signals.

(1: ?dma= sticBSY)
(3: sticEOP= 0: exp= 1)
(3: ?dma= sticBSY)
(4: ?montr cbl)
(5: sticEOP= 0: exp= 1)
(5: ?dma= sticBSY)
(6: G !> B: <addrlo= x,
adrhi=x> )

STIC reported it was busy when it should
not have been.
STIC did not set the end-of-packet interrupt
bit in the STIC interrupt register.
STIC reported it was busy when it should
not have been.
The video cable is not connected properly or
is faulty.
STIC did not set the end-of-packet interrupt
bit in the STIC interrupt register.
STIC reported it was busy when it should
not have been.
Green analog output is not greater than
blue analog output.
The addrlo value is the value in the
VDAC address low register.
The addrhi value is the value in the
VDAC address high register.
(continued on next page)

Two-Dimensional Graphics Accelerator Modules 4–27

Table 4-11 (Cont.). VDAC Analog Output and Signature Test Error Codes
and Descriptions
Error Code and Description

Meaning

(7: sticEOP= 0: exp= 1)

STIC did not set the end-of-packet interrupt
bit in the STIC interrupt register.
STIC reported it was busy when it should
not have been.
Red analog output is not greater than blue
analog output.

(7: ?dma= sticBSY)
(8: R !> B: <addrlo= x,
adrhi=x> )

The addrlo value is the value in the
VDAC address low register.
The addrhi value is the value in the
VDAC address high register.
(9: sticEOP= 0: exp= 1)
(9: ?dma= sticBSY)
(10: B !> R: <addrlo= x,
adrhi=x> )

STIC did not set the end-of-packet interrupt
bit in the STIC interrupt register.
STIC reported it was busy when it should
not have been.
Blue analog output is not greater than red
analog output.
The addrlo value is the value in the
VDAC address low register.
The addrhi value is the value in the
VDAC address high register.

4–28 Two-Dimensional Graphics Accelerator Modules

5
Smart Frame-Buffer Graphics Module
This chapter discusses the following items for the smart
frame-buffer graphics module:
Module hardware
Troubleshooting procedures
Individual self-tests
The terms CXTurbo and HX also refer to the smart frame-buffer
graphics module. In cnfg displays, the smart frame-buffer
module is identified by the terms PMAGB-BA and HX.

Smart Frame-Buffer Graphics Module 5–1

Smart Frame-Buffer Graphics Module Hardware
The smart frame-buffer graphics module generates eightplane color graphics. The smart frame-buffer graphics module
includes the following components:
One smart frame-buffer application-specific integrated
circuit (ASIC)
Two banks of 256-Kbyte x 4 video random-access memory
(RAM)
One BT459 RAM digital-to-analog converter (RAMDAC)
One BT438 crystal oscillator
One 128-Kbyte flash electrically erasable programmable
read- only memory (EEPROM)
Figure 5-1 shows the smart frame-buffer graphics module and
its connectors.
Smart Frame-Buffer Module Versions
There are three versions of the smart frame-buffer graphics
module:
PMAGB-BA
PMAGB-BC
PMAGB-BE
Note: In all displays, the smart frame-buffer graphics module is

identified by the expression PMAGB-BA regardless of its version.

To display the abbreviated cnfg display for the entire system,
type cnfg and press Return.
The display line for all versions of the smart frame-buffer
graphics module in the abbreviated cnfg display has the format:
0: PMAGB-BA DEC V1.0 TCF0 ( HX --- d=8)

The number in the leftmost column is the number of the slot
where the smart frame-buffer graphics module is installed. In
this example, the module is installed in TURBOchannel slot 0.

5–2 Smart Frame-Buffer Graphics Module

To display the expanded cnfg display for a smart frame-buffer
graphics module, type cnfg/slot and press Return. Replace slot
with the slot number of the module.
The expanded cnfg display for all versions of the smart
frame-buffer graphics module has the following format:
0:

PMAGB-BA
DEC
V1.0
TCF0
( HX -- d=8)
------------------------------------------Video Ram Size
2097152
Number of Planes
8
Number of Rows
1024
Number of Columns
1280
Crystal Selected (Mhz)
130
Refresh Rate (Hz)
72
Vertical Scanlines
1024
Vertical Front Porch
3
Vertical Back Porch
34
Vertical Sync
3
Horizontal pixels
1280
Horizontal front porch
32
Horizontal back porch
232
Horizontal sync
160
Refresh count
468
Cursor X
368
Cursor Y
38
Cursor Test Signature
0x3a 0x0 0x51
Pattern Test Signature
0xcd 0xfb 0x8a
Line Test Signature
0x78 0xbd 0xa0
-------------------------------------------

Different versions support different monitors. Each version
has two configurations of screen update frequency and screen
pixel dimensions. The presence or absence of a jumper on the
frequency setting pins determines the configuration.
Table 5-1 lists the screen update frequency, screen pixel
dimensions, jumper setting, and supported monitors for each
smart frame-buffer version and configuration.

Smart Frame-Buffer Graphics Module 5–3

Table 5-1. Characteristics of Each Smart Frame-Buffer Version

Version

Jumper
Setting

Screen
Update
Frequency

Screen
Pixel
Dimensions

PMAGB-BA

Off

1280 x
1024

Off

1280 x
1024

1024 x
864

Off

1280 x
1024

1024 x
768

PMAGB-BC

PMAGB-BE

5–4 Smart Frame-Buffer Graphics Module

Monitors

VR320-DA
VRM17-DA
VRT16-HA
VRT19-HA
VR320-CA
VRC16-CA
VRT16-DA
VRT16-HA
VRT19-DA
VRT19-HA
VR320-DA
VRM17-DA
VRT16-HA
VRT19-HA
VR262-AA
VR297-DA
VR299-DA
VR320-DA
VRM17-DA
VRT16-HA
VRT19-HA
VRC16-CA
VRM17-AA

Smart Frame-Buffer Jumpers
The smart frame-buffer graphics module has two sets of jumper
pins:
The frequency setting pins
The EEPROM access pins
The frequency setting jumper controls the frequency and pixel
dimensions. See the "Versions" section of this chapter.
The EEPROM access jumper enables and disables EEPROM
programming. When the jumper is on, you can program the
EEPROM. When the jumper is off, you cannot program the
EEPROM.
A 4-pin jumper holder next to the EEPROM access pins
provides a place to store two jumpers that have been removed
from the jumper pins.

Smart Frame-Buffer Graphics Module 5–5

Video cable connector

Front view

EPROM access pins
Jumper holder

Frequency
settiing jumpers

Back view
WSETU041

Figure 5-1. Smart frame-buffer graphics module

5–6 Smart Frame-Buffer Graphics Module

Troubleshooting a Smart Frame-Buffer Graphics Module
When a graphics module malfunctioning, the normal
display of error messages is sometimes disrupted. For
this reason, use an alternate terminal as the console when
troubleshooting a graphics module.
If the monitor and the smart frame-buffer graphics module
cannot synchronize, check whether the module configuration
is correct for the monitor. This condition is indicated by
scrambled horizontal lines on the monitor. The expanded
cnfg display lists the refresh rate and the number of
rows and columns set for the module. Table 5-1 lists
the monitors that each version of the smart frame-buffer
module supports. Remove or install the frequency setting
jumper as appropriate.
If the monitor and the graphics module still does not
synchronize, there is probably a mismatch between the
version of the graphics module and the monitor type.
Change the monitor or graphics module as appropriate.
If no monitor is connected to the smart frame-buffer
graphics module, the red screen subtest of the patterns
test will fail. Check that a monitor is installed and properly
connected. If the patterns test still fails, replace the smart
frame- buffer graphics module.
If a smart frame-buffer graphics module self-test other
than the patterns test fails, replace the smart frame-buffer
graphics module.

Smart Frame-Buffer Graphics Module 5–7

Individual Smart Frame-Buffer Graphics Module Self-Tests
Table 5-2 lists the individual smart frame- buffer graphics
module self-tests and their commands. Descriptions of these
individual self-tests appear later in thes chapter in the same
order in which they appear in Table 5-2.
Table 5-2. Smart Frame-Buffer Graphics Module Tests
Test Name

Test Command

Video RAM test
Video RAMDAC test
Patterns test
Box test
Font test
Register test
Interrupt test
Stipple mode test
Line draw mode test
Area copy mode test
Boolean operation test
Planemask test
Pixel shift test
Cross-hair cursor utility
Ras test
Background test

t slot/vram [?] [-v] [-tn] [-d]
t slot/vdac [?] [-v] [-tn] [-d]
t slot/patt [?] [-v] [-tn] [-d]
t slot/box [?] [-v] [-tn] [-d]
t slot /font [?] [-fn] [-b] [-m]
t slot/reg [?] [-v] [-tn] [-d]
t slot/int [?] [-v] [-tn] [-d]
t slot /stip [?] [-v] [-tn] [-sr] [-d]
t slot/line [?] [-v] [-tn] [-nc] [-d]
t slot /copy [-cr] [-tn] [-v] [-d]
t slot /bool [?] [-v] [-tn] [-d]
t slot/plane [?] [-v] [-tn] [-d]
t slot/pshift [?] [-v] [-tn] [-d]
t slot/chair [-v]
t slot/ras [?] [-v] [-tn] [-d]
t slot/back [?] [-v] [-tn] [-d]

5–8 Smart Frame-Buffer Graphics Module

Video RAM Test
The video RAM test writes and reads color pattern data to
smart frame-buffer RAM. As each pattern is written, the screen
displays the corresponding color.
To run the video RAM test, type t slot/vram [?] [-v] [-tn] [-d]
and press Return.
When you type the video RAM test command,
Replace slot with the slot number of the graphics module.
Include the ? option to list the subtests.
Include the -v option to run the test in verbose mode.
Include the -tn option to execute subtest number n.
Include the -d option to keep the display active during the
test.
Table 5-3 lists the video RAM subtests.
Table 5-3. Video RAM Subtests
Subtest
Number

Description

1
2
3
4

VRAM: Load color map
VRAM: Write 55555555 test
VRAM: Read 55555555/write AAAAAAAA test
VRAM: Read AAAAAAAA/write EEEEEEEE test

Video RAM test error messages

Video RAM test error messages have the form
? TFL: slot PMAGB-BA VRAM:Description Address=xxxxxxxx,
Expect= yy, Actual = zz data
? TFL: slot PMAGB-BA VRAM: indicates that the smart
frame-buffer graphics module in slot slot reported a video
RAM test error.
Description identifies the subtest that failed.
The Address value is the RAM address where the failure
occurred.

Smart Frame-Buffer Graphics Module 5–9

The Expect value is the expected RAM contents.
The Actual value is the actual RAM contents.
data represents the first eight longwords of data, starting
at the address that failed, which the system displays in this
error message.

5–10 Smart Frame-Buffer Graphics Module

Video Random-Access Memory Digital-to-Analog Converter
(RAMDAC) Test
The video random-access memory digital-to-analog converter
(RAMDAC) test tests the BT459 RAMDAC.
To run the video RAMDAC test, type t slot /vdac [?] [-v] [-tn] [-d]
and press Return.
When you type the video RAMDAC test command,
Replace slot with the slot number of the graphics module.
Include the ? option to list the subtests.
Include the -v option to run the test in verbose mode.
Include the -tn option to execute a subtest. Replace n with
the number of the subtest.
Include the -d option to keep the display active during the
test.
Table 5-4 lists the video RAMDAC subtests.
Table 5-4. Video RAMDAC Subtests
Subtest
Number

Description

1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
12
13

VDAC: Fill video RAM
VDAC: ID register test
VDAC: Revision register test
VDAC: Monitor connected test
VDAC: Command register test
VDAC: Overlay RAM test
VDAC: Color RAM test
VDAC: Load color map
VDAC: Cursor command register test
VDAC: Cursor RAM test
VDAC: Cursor color test
VDAC: Cursor crosshair test
VDAC: Cursor signature test

Smart Frame-Buffer Graphics Module 5–11

Notes: The blue band sometimes appears to be out of alignment with

the other colors of the cursor. This does not constitute a failure.

The VDAC monitor connected test does not check for the presence of a
monitor.
Video RAMDAC test error messages

Video RAMDAC test error messages have the form
? TFL: slot PMAGB-BA VDAC: Description Address=xxxxxxxx,
Expect= yy, Actual = zz
? TFL: slot PMAGB-BA VDAC: indicates that the smart
frame-buffer graphics module in slot slot reported a video
RAMDAC test error.
Description identifies the subtest that failed.
The Address value is the RAM address where the failure
occurred.
The Expect value is the expected RAM contents.
The Actual value is the actual RAM contents.

5–12 Smart Frame-Buffer Graphics Module

Patterns Test
The patterns test sends patterns to the screen by setting up
the color look-up table and video RAM with the required data
patterns. The patterns test requires a video monitor.
To run the patterns test, type t slot /patt [?] [-v] [-tn] [-d] and
press Return.
When you type the patterns test command,
Replace slot with the slot number of the graphics module.
Include the ? option to list the subtests.
Include the -v option to run the test in verbose mode.
Include the -tn option to execute a subtest. Replace n with
the number of the subtest.
Include the -d option to keep the display active during the
test.
Table 5-5 lists the patterns subtests.
Table 5-5. Patterns Subtests
Subtest
Number

Description

1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
12

PATT: Fill video RAM
PATT: Color bar test
PATT: Color bar reference voltage test
PATT: Gray scale test
PATT: Red screen test
PATT: Green screen test
PATT: Blue screen test
PATT: Blue/red test
PATT: Blue/red to blue test
PATT: Blue to green test
PATT: Signature analysis test
PATT: White screen test

Smart Frame-Buffer Graphics Module 5–13

Patterns test error messages

Patterns test error messages have the form ? TFL: slot PMAGB-BA PATT:Descri
? TFL: slot PMAGB-BA PATT: indicates that the smart
frame-buffer graphics module in slot slot reported a
patterns test error.
Description identifies the subtest that failed.
The patterns test posts an error if the monitor cable is not
connected to the module. The patterns test signature mode
subtest must be run after the other subtests since it requires an
active video signature. If the patterns signature subtest fails,
the error message includes the red, green, and blue signature
values for pixels A,B,C and D.

5–14 Smart Frame-Buffer Graphics Module

Box Test
The box test displays a grid of vertical and horizontal lines on
the monitor with a circle overlaid on the grid.
To run the box test, type t slot /box [?] [-v] [-tn] [-d] and press
Return.
When you type the box test command,
Replace slot with the slot number of the graphics module.
Include the ? option to list the subtests.
Include the -v option to run the test in verbose mode.
Include the -tn option to execute a subtest. Replace n with
the number of the subtest.
Include the -d option to keep the display active during the
test.
Table 5-6 lists the box subtests.
Table 5-6. Box Subtests
Subtest
Number

Description

1
2

BOX: Load grid map
BOX: Load circle on the grid

Box test error messages

Box test error messages have the form ? TFL: slot PMAGB-BA BOX:Description
? TFL: slot PMAGB-BA BOX: indicates that the smart
frame-buffer graphics module in slot slot reported a box test
error.
Description identifies the subtest that failed.
The box test provides no extended error information.

Smart Frame-Buffer Graphics Module 5–15

Font Test
The font test fills the screen with the font set and then scrolls
the display until any character is typed on the keyboard.
To run the font test, type t slot /font [?] [-fn] [-b] [-m] and
press Return.
When you type the font test command,
Replace slot with the slot number of the graphics module.
Include the ? option to list the subtests.
Include the -v option to run the test in verbose mode.
To display a specific character, include the -fn option,
replacing n with the desired character.
Include the -b option to display black characters on a white
background.
Include the -m option to specify the 8-bit multinational font
set.
These are some sample font test commands:
Command

Description

t slot/font
t slot/font -fH
t slot/font -fE
t slot/font -b
t slot/font -m

Displays the ascii fonts
Displays H’s
Displays E’s
Displays black characters on white
Displays the multinational font set

Font test error messages

Font test error messages have the form ? TFL: slot PMAGB-BA FONT
? TFL: slot PMAGB-BA FONT: indicates that the smart
frame-buffer graphics module in slot slot reported a font test
error.
The font test provides no extended error information.

5–16 Smart Frame-Buffer Graphics Module

Register Test
The register test writes to all visible registers and verifies the
contents.
Note: The register test corrupts the video subsystem registers. If the
diagnostic test is run interactively from the CRT console using the
-v qualifier, the display is corrupted during the test. The display is
initialized when the test has completed.

Any errors that occur while the display is disabled are recorded in
the error logs. To view the error logs, type erl and press Return.

To run the register test, type t slot /reg [?] [-v] [-tn] [-d] and
press Return.
When you type the register test command,
Replace slot with the slot number of the graphics module.
Include the ? option to list the subtests.
Include the -v option to run the test in verbose mode.
Include the -tn option to execute a subtest. Replace n with
the number of the subtest.
Include the -d option to keep the display active during the
test.
Register test error messages

Register test error messages have the form
? TFL: slot PMAGB-BA REG: Address=xxxxxxxx, Expect= yy,
Actual = zz
? TFL: slot PMAGB-BA REG: indicates that the smart
frame-buffer graphics module in slot slot reported a register
test error.
The Address value is the RAM address where the failure
occurred.
The Expect value is the expected RAM contents.
The Actual value is the actual RAM contents.

Smart Frame-Buffer Graphics Module 5–17

Interrupt Test
The interrupt test verifies that the smart frame-buffer graphics
module can post an interrupt to the MIPS processor, and that
the module will not interrupt the MIPS processor when the
interrupt enable register is clear.
To run the interrupt test, type t slot /int [?] [-v] [-tn] [-d] and
press Return.
When you type the interrupt test command,
Replace slot with the slot number of the graphics module.
Include the ? option to list the subtests.
Include the -v option to run the test in verbose mode.
Include the -tn option to execute a subtest. Replace n with
the number of the subtest.
Include the -d option to keep the display active during the
test.
Table 5-7 lists the interrupt subtests.
Table 5-7. Interrupt Subtests
Subtest
Number

Description

1
2

INT: Interrupt assertion test
INT: No interrupt assertion test

Interrupt test error messages

Interrupt test error messages have the form
? TFL: slot PMAGB-BA INT:Description
? TFL: slot PMAGB-BA INT: indicates that the smart
frame-buffer graphics module in slot slot reported a
interrupt test error.
Description identifies the subtest that failed.
The interrupt test provides no extended error information.

5–18 Smart Frame-Buffer Graphics Module

Stipple Mode Test
The stipple mode test fills video RAM with a bitmap pattern.
The stipple test stipples the first row with red and the middle
row with blue. As more rows are stippled using the -s qualifier,
the screen will stipple to the maximum number of rows for the
monitor geometry.
To run the stipple mode test, type t slot /stip [?] [-v] [-tn] [-sr] [-d]
and press Return.
When you type the stipple mode test command,
Replace slot with the slot number of the graphics module.
Include the ? option to list the subtests.
Include the -v option to run the test in verbose mode.
Include the -tn option to execute a subtest. Replace n with
the number of the subtest.
Include the -sr option to specify how many rows to stipple.
Replace r with the number of rows to stipple.
Include the -d option to keep the display active during the
test.
Table 5-8 lists the stipple mode subtests.
Table 5-8. Stipple Mode Subtests
Subtest
Number

Description

1
2
3

STIP: Stipple foreground test
STIP: Stipple background test
STIP: Stipple VRAM screen test

Stipple mode test error messages

Stipple mode test error messages have the form
? TFL: slot PMAGB-BA STIP:Description Address=xxxxxxxx,
Expect= yy, Actual = zz

Smart Frame-Buffer Graphics Module 5–19

? TFL: slot PMAGB-BA STIP: indicates that the smart
frame-buffer graphics module in slot slot reported a stipple
mode test error.
Description identifies the subtest that failed.
The Address value is the RAM address where the failure
occurred.
The Expect value is the expected RAM contents.
The Actual value is the actual RAM contents.

5–20 Smart Frame-Buffer Graphics Module

Line Draw Mode Test
The line draw mode test draws a line and verifies the presence
of a line at the specified location in video RAM.
To run the line draw mode test, type t slot /line [?] [-v] [-tn] [-nc] [-d]
and press Return.
When you type the line draw mode test command,
Replace slot with the slot number of the graphics module.
Include the ? option to list the subtests.
Include the -v option to run the test in verbose mode.
Include the -tn option to execute a subtest. Replace n with
the number of the subtest.
Include the -nc option to specify how many lines to draw
in each quadrant. Replace c with the number of lines to
be drawn in eacg quadrant. For example, t 1/line -n20
commands the smart frame-buffer in slot 1 to draw 20 lines
per quadrant.
Include the -d option to keep the display active during the
test.
Table 5-9 lists the line draw mode subtests.

Smart Frame-Buffer Graphics Module 5–21

Table 5-9. Line Draw Mode Subtests
Subtest
Number

Description

1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
12
13
14
15

LINE: Transparent short line (Triangle) test
LINE: Transparent centered horizontal line test
LINE: Transparent alternate horizontal line test
LINE: Transparent centered vertical line test
LINE: Transparent diagonal line decrement address test
LINE: Transparent diagonal line increment address test
LINE: Transparent m < 1 xa < xb quadrant 1 test
LINE: Transparent m < 1 xa > xb quadrant 2 test
LINE: Transparent m > 1 xa < xb quadrant 1 test
LINE: Transparent m > 1 xa > xb quadrant 2 test
LINE: Opaque m < -1 xa < xb quadrant 3 test
LINE: Opaque m < -1 xa > xb quadrant 4 test
LINE: Opaque m > -1 xa < xb quadrant 3 test
LINE: Opaque m > -1 xa > xb quadrant 4 test
LINE: Line signature mode test

Line draw mode test error messages

Line draw mode test error messages have the form
? TFL: slot PMAGB-BA LINE:Description
? TFL: slot PMAGB-BA LINE: indicates that the smart
frame-buffer graphics module in slot slot reported a line
draw mode test error.
Description identifies the subtest that failed.
The Address value is the RAM address where the failure
occurred.
The Expect value is the expected RAM contents.
The Actual value is the actual RAM contents.
If the line signature mode test fails, the error message wil
contain the red,green, and blue signature values for pixels A, B,
C, and D.

5–22 Smart Frame-Buffer Graphics Module

Note: Because the line signature mode subtest is a signature of the

video subsystem, that subtest can run only after all other subtests
have executed. The line signature mode subtest can be run for only
the default lines per quadrant, since using the qualifier -n would
change the signature.

Smart Frame-Buffer Graphics Module 5–23

Area Copy Mode Test
The copy mode test copies up to 32 consecutive pixels from a
source to a destination. The copy mode test copies the first
character row to the middle of the screen.
To run the copy mode test, type t slot /copy [-cr] [-tn] [-v] [-d]
and press Return.
When you type the copy mode test command,
Replace slot with the slot number of the graphics module.
Include the -cr option to command the test to copy r
rows. For example, t 1/copy -c20 commands the smart
frame-buffer in slot 1 to copy 20 rows from the top to the
bottom of the screen.
Include the -tn option to execute a subtest. Replace n with
the number of the subtest.
Include the -v option to run the test in verbose mode.
Include the -d option to keep the display active during the
test.
Table 5-10 lists the copy mode subtests.
Table 5-10. Copy Mode Subtests
Subtest
Number

Description

1
2

COPY: Copy aligned data test
COPY: Copy aligned 1 to 32 bytes test

Copy mode test error messages

Copy mode test error messages have the form
? TFL: slot PMAGB-BA COPY:Description Address=xxxxxxxx,
Expect= yy, Actual = zz
? TFL: slot PMAGB-BA COPY: indicates that the smart
frame-buffer graphics module in slot slot reported a copy
mode test error.
Description identifies the subtest that failed.

5–24 Smart Frame-Buffer Graphics Module

The Address value is the RAM address where the failure
occurred.
The Expect value is the expected RAM contents.
The Actual value is the actual RAM contents.

Smart Frame-Buffer Graphics Module 5–25

Boolean Operation Test
The Boolean operation test verifies the Boolean functions.
Table 5-11 lists the Boolean functions. The src field is the input
data, and the dst field is the value currently in video RAM.
Table 5-11. Boolean Functions
Function
Number

Boolean Function

0
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
0xa
0xb
0xc
0xd
0xe
0x

0
src AND dst
src AND NOT dst
src
NOT (src) AND dst
dst
src XOR dst
src OR dst
NOT (src) AND NOT (dst)
NOT(src) XOR(dst)
NOT dst
src OR (NOT dst)
NOT src
(NOT src) OR dst
(NOT src) OR (NOT dst)
0xffffffff

To run the Boolean operation test, type t slot /bool [?] [-v] [-tn] [-d]
and press Return.
When you type the Boolean operation test command,
Replace slot with the slot number of the graphics module.
Include the ? option to list the subtests.
Include the -v option to run the test in verbose mode.
Include the -tn option to execute a subtest. Replace n with
the number of the subtest.

5–26 Smart Frame-Buffer Graphics Module

Include the -d option to keep the display active during the
test.
Table 5-12 lists the Boolean operation subtests.
Table 5-12. Boolean Operation Subtests
Subtest
Number

Description

1
2
3
4

BOOL: Boolean simple frame test
BOOL: Boolean mode test
BOOL: Boolean stipple mode test
BOOL: Boolean line mode test

Boolean operation test error messages

Boolean operation test error messages have the form
? TFL: slot PMAGB-BA BOOL:Description Address=xxxxxxxx,
Expect= yy, Actual = zz
? TFL: slot PMAGB-BA BOOL: indicates that the smart
frame-buffer graphics module in slot slot reported a Boolean
operation test error.
Description identifies the subtest that failed.
The Address value is the RAM address where the failure
occurred.
The Expect value is the expected RAM contents.
The Actual value is the actual RAM contents.

Smart Frame-Buffer Graphics Module 5–27

Planemask Test
The planemask test writes to video RAM for each value of the
planemask register and then verifies the contents of video RAM.
To run the planemask test, type t slot /plane [?] [-v] [-tn] [-d]
and press Return.
When you type the planemask test command,
Replace slot with the slot number of the graphics module.
Include the ? option to list the subtests.
Include the -v option to run the test in verbose mode.
Include the -tn option to execute a subtest. Replace n with
the number of the subtest.
Include the -d option to keep the display active during the
test.
The planemask test has no subtests.
Planemask test error messages

Planemask test error messages have the form
? TFL: slot PMAGB-BA PLANE Address=xxxxxxxx, Expect=yy,
Actual=zz
? TFL: slot PMAGB-BA PLANE: indicates that the
smart frame-buffer graphics module in slot slot reported
a planemask test error.
The Address value is the RAM address where the failure
occurred.
The Expect value is the expected RAM contents.
The Actual value is the actual RAM contents.

5–28 Smart Frame-Buffer Graphics Module

Pixel Shift Test
The pixel shift test verfies that the module shifts video RAM
data by the amount specified in the pixel shift register.
To run the pixel shift test, type t slot /pshift [?] [-v] [-tn] [-d]
and press Return.
When you type the pixel shift test command,
Replace slot with the slot number of the graphics module.
Include the ? option to list the subtests.
Include the -v option to run the test in verbose mode.
Include the -tn option to execute a subtest. Replace n with
the number of the subtest.
Include the -d option to keep the display active during the
test.
Table 5-13 lists the pixel shift subtests.
Table 5-13. Pixel Shift Subtests
Subtest
Number

Description

1
2

PSHIFT: 32-byte positive shift test
PSHIFT: 32-byte negative shift test

Pixel shift test error messages

Pixel shift test error messages have the form
? TFL: slot PMAGB-BA PSHIFT:Description Address=xxxxxxxx,
Expect= yy, Actual = zz
? TFL: slot PMAGB-BA PSHIFT: indicates that the smart
frame-buffer graphics module in slot slot reported a pixel
shift test error.
Description identifies the subtest that failed.
The Address value is the RAM address where the failure
occurred.
The Expect value is the expected RAM contents.

Smart Frame-Buffer Graphics Module 5–29

The Actual value is the actual RAM contents.

5–30 Smart Frame-Buffer Graphics Module

Crosshair Cursor Utility
The crosshair cursor utility displays a full-screen crosshair
cursor with a width of 1 pixel. The cursor can be moved around
the screen using the arrow keys on the alternate console or
number keys 1, 2, 3, and 4 on the CRT console.
To run the crosshair cursor utility, type t slot/chair [-v] and
press Return.
When you type the crosshair cursor utility command,
Replace slot with the slot number of the graphics module.
Include the -v option to run the test in verbose mode.
To stop the crosshair cursor test, enter ctrl-C or the character q
or Q.
The crosshair cursor utility returns no error messages.

Smart Frame-Buffer Graphics Module 5–31

Ras Test
The ras test tests ras timing and power consumption. The ras
test displays a vertical line of pixels every four scanlines on a
1024-horizontal-pixel monitor.
To run the ras test, type t slot/ras [?] [-v] [-tn] [-d] and press
Return.
When you type the ras test command,
Replace slot with the slot number of the graphics module.
Include the ? option to list the subtests.
Include the -v option to run the test in verbose mode.
Include the -tn option to execute a subtest. Replace n with
the number of the subtest.
Include the -d option to keep the display active during the
test.
The ras test displays no error messages.

5–32 Smart Frame-Buffer Graphics Module

Background Test
The background test displays pixel patterns. The default
pattern is the same pattern used for the system window
manager after the system is booted. The default pixel color
entry is white.
To run the background test, type t slot /back [?] [-v] [-tn] [-d]
and press Return.
When you type the background test command,
Replace slot with the slot number of the graphics module.
Include the ? option to list the subtests.
Include the -v option to run the test in verbose mode.
Include the -tn option to execute a subtest. Replace n with
the number of the subtest.
Include the -d option to keep the display active during the
test.
These are some sample background test commands:
Command

Description

t slot/back -d
t slot/back -v

Displays the default pattern on the screen
Prompts for a scanline pattern and RGB

Smart Frame-Buffer Graphics Module 5–33

Test Scripts
The smart frame-buffer provides the following test scripts:
cnsltest
pst-m
pst-v
cnsltest Script
The cnsltest script is invoked during power up initialization.
init ${slot} e
t ${slot}/int
t ${slot}/patt
t ${slot}/vram
t ${slot}/stip
t ${slot}/copy
t ${slot}/line
You can command the cnsltest script to loop until an error
occurs by using the following command:
>>sh slot/cnsltest -l -e
Replace slot with the slot number of the graphics module.

5–34 Smart Frame-Buffer Graphics Module

pst-m Script
The pst-m script runs all of the smart frame-buffer self- tests:
t ${slot}/int
t ${slot}/vram
t ${slot}/vdac
t ${slot}/patt
t ${slot}/box
t ${slot}/stip
t ${slot}/copy
t ${slot}/bool
t ${slot}/plane
t ${slot}/pshift
t ${slot}/ras
t ${slot}/line
t ${slot}/chair
t ${slot}/back
t ${slot}/reg
init ${slot} e
You can command the pst-m script to loop until an error occurs
by using the following command:
>>sh slot/pst-m -l -e
Replace slot with the slot number of the graphics module.

Smart Frame-Buffer Graphics Module 5–35

pst-v Script
The pst-v script tests in the verbose mode. In verbose mode, the
script prompts the user and displays ASCII text to the alternate
console during testing. Verbose mode provides interactive
testing and gives the user more information on the tests being
executed.
You can command the pst-v script to run by using the following
command:
>>sh slot/pst-v
Replace slot with the slot number of the graphics module.
The pst-v script runs all of the smart frame-buffer self- tests:
t ${slot}/vdac -v
t ${slot}/vram -v
t ${slot}/box -v
t ${slot}/patt -v
t ${slot}/int -v
t ${slot}/stip -v
t ${slot}/copy -v
t ${slot}/bool -v
t ${slot}/plane -v
t ${slot}/pshift -v
t ${slot}/ras -v
t ${slot}/reg -v
t ${slot}/line
t ${slot}/back
t ${slot}/chair

Special Notes
Use the verbose qualifier to run the tests in interactive mode.
If you set the verbose qualifier from the monitor console, tests
do not display any text. For this reason, you should use the
alternate console to run the tests in interactive mode and to
display the messages for tests that are executing.
The system board LEDs indicate which subtest of a test is
running.

5–36 Smart Frame-Buffer Graphics Module

If a self-test error occurs when the system is using the monitor
for the console, the video system is reset to clear memory and
reset the video.
If an alternate terminal or any device other than a monitor is
being used as the console, the video system is not reset.
When testing graphics modules, you normally should use an
alternate terminal as the console to run tests and view error
messages.
To make the system use the alternate terminal as the console,
type setenv console s. Then press Return.
To make the system use the monitor as the console, type
setenv console *. Then press Return. % = == = Internet
headers and postmarks (see DECWRL::GATEWAY.DOC) %
Received: by fenris.pa.dec.com; id AA25373; Tue, 26 Nov 91
13:46:10 -0800

Smart Frame-Buffer Graphics Module 5–37

6
Three-Dimensional Graphics Modules
This chapter discusses the following items for the threedimensional (3D) graphics modules:
Low and mid 3D graphics module hardware
High 3D graphics module hardware
Low and mid 3D graphics module troubleshooting
procedures
High 3D graphics module troubleshooting procedures
How to upgrade 3D graphics module hardware
Individual 3D graphics module self-tests

Three-Dimensional Graphics Modules 6–1

Low and Mid 3D Graphics Module Hardware
The low and mid 3D graphics modules use identical base
graphics modules, but have different numbers of VSIMMs and
video digital-to-analog converters (VDACs).
The low and mid 3D base graphics module requires two option
slots and must be installed in option slots 0 and 1.
The low and mid 3D base graphics module has slots for
VSIMMs and optional z-buffer modules. The slots are
numbered 1 through 5, starting with the slot farthest from
the video cable connector on the graphics module.
VSIMMs can reside in slots 1, 3, and 5.
Two optional z-buffer modules, which have different
lengths, can be added in slots 2 and 4.
The longer z-buffer module resides in slot 2.
The shorter z-buffer module resides in
expansion slot 4.
Figure 6-1 shows the slot numbers assigned to each of these
VSIMM and z-buffer slots.
To generate graphics efficiently, the high 3D graphics module
requires 16 Mbytes of base system RAM.

6–2 Three-Dimensional Graphics Modules

Slot 2, for z-buffer

Slot 4, for z-buffer
Slot 1, for VSIMM

Graphics module video cable connector

Slot 3, for VSIMM

Slot 5, for VSIMM
WSE2M066

Figure 6-1. Slot numbers for VSIMM and z-buffer modules on low and
mid 3D graphics modules

Three-Dimensional Graphics Modules 6–3

Low 3D Graphics Module Hardware
The workstation can support one low 3D graphics TURBOchannel
module, which provides 8-plane, three-dimensional color
graphics.
The low 3D graphics module has one VDAC in the VDAC socket
farthest from the video cable connector, and one VSIMM in slot
1.
To enhance 3D graphics generation, two optional z-buffer
modules can be inserted in slots 2 and 4 on top of the base
graphics module.
For the low 3D graphics accelerator module to work correctly,
your workstation must use ULTRIX version 4.1 or higher.
Combining Low 3D Graphics Modules and Monitors
There are three types of low 3D graphics TURBOchannel
modules, PMAG-DA, PMAGB-DC, and PMAGB-DA. The module
type is printed on the front of the low 3D graphics module.
Module types PMAG-DA and PMAGB-DC, operate at 66
Hz. The PMAGB-DC is also called the low 3D graphics
plus module. The following monitors can display graphics
generated by the PMAG-DA and PMAGB-DC graphics
modules:
VRT16-DA color monitor
VRT16-HA color monitor
VRT19-DA color monitor
VRT19-HA color monitor
VR319-CA monochrome monitor
VR320-CA color monitor
Module type PMAGB-DA operates at 72 Hz, and is also
known as the low 3D graphics plus module. The following
monitors can display graphics generated by the PMAGB-DA
graphics module:
VRT16-HA color monitor
VRT19-HA color monitor
VR319-DA monochrome monitor
6–4 Three-Dimensional Graphics Modules

VR320-DA color monitor
VRM17-AA monochrome monitor
Figure 6-2 shows a low 3D graphics module that also has two
optional z-buffer modules attached.

z-buffer modules
VSIMM

Graphics module video cable connector

WSE2M067

Figure 6-2. Low 3D graphics module

Three-Dimensional Graphics Modules 6–5

Mid 3D Graphics Module Hardware
The workstation can support one mid 3D graphics accelerator
module, which generates three-dimensional color graphics.
Three VDACs connect to the VDAC sockets and three VSIMMs
connect to slots 1, 3, and 5 on the base graphics module.
Three video serial inline memory modules, which are known as
VSIMMs, attach to the top of the mid 3D module.
To enhance 3D graphics generation, two optional z-buffer
modules can be inserted in slots 2 and 4 on top of the base
graphics module.
For the mid 3D graphics accelerator module to work correctly,
your workstation must use ULTRIX version 4.1 or higher.
Combining Mid 3D Graphics Modules and Monitors
There are three types of mid 3D graphics TURBOchannel
modules, module type PMAG-EA, module type PMAGB-EC,
and modult type PMAGB-EA. Module type PMAG-EA is often
called a mid 3D graphics module. Module types PMAGB-EA
and PMAGB-EC are often called mid 3D graphics plus modules.
The module type is printed on the front of the mid 3D graphics
module.
Module types PMAG-EA and PMAGB-EC operate at 66 Hz.
The following monitors can display graphics generated by
the PMAG-EA and PMAGB-EC graphics modules:
VRT16-DA color monitor
VRT16-HA color monitor
VRT19-DA color monitor
VRT19-HA color monitor
VR319-CA monochrome monitor
VR320-CA color monitor
Module type PMAGB-EA operates at 72 Hz. The following
monitors can display graphics generated by the PMAGB-EA
graphics module:
VRT16-HA color monitor
6–6 Three-Dimensional Graphics Modules

VRT19-HA color monitor
VR319-DA monochrome monitor
VR320-DA color monitor
VRM17-AA monochrome monitor
Figure 6-3 shows the mid 3D graphics module with its three
VDACs and three VSIMMs. This particular mid 3D graphics
module also has the two optional z-buffer modules.

Optional z-buffer modules

VSIMMs

WSE2M057

Figure 6-3. Mid 3D graphics module

Three-Dimensional Graphics Modules 6–7

High 3D Graphics Module Hardware
The workstation can support one high 3D graphics accelerator
module, which provides 24-plane, three-dimensional color
graphics.
Six VSIMMs connect to the top of the high 3D base graphics
module. The VSIMM slots are numbered from 1 to 6, starting
with the slot farthest from the graphics module video cable
connector.
To generate graphics efficiently, the high 3D graphics module
requires 16 Mbytes of base system RAM
For the high 3D graphics accelerator module to work correctly,
your workstation must use ULTRIX version 4.1 or higher.
Combining High 3D Graphics Modules and Monitors
There are two types of high 3D graphics TURBOchannel
modules, model type PMAG-FA, and model type PMAGB-FA.
The module type is printed on the front of the high 3D graphics
module.
Module type PMAG-FA operates at 66 Hz. The following
monitors can display graphics generated by the PMAG-FA
high 3D graphics module:
VRT16-DA color monitor
VRT16-HA color monitor
VRT19-DA color monitor
VRT19-HA color monitor
VR319-CA monochrome monitor
VR320-CA color monitor
Module type PMAGB-FA, which is also known as the high
3D plus graphics module, operates at 72 Hz. The following
monitors can display graphics generated by the PMAGB-FA
high 3D plus graphics module:
VRM17-AA color monitor
VRT16-HA color monitor

6–8 Three-Dimensional Graphics Modules

VRT19-HA color monitor
VR319-DA monochrome monitor
VR320-DA color monitor
Figure 6-4 shows the high 3D graphics module and its six
VSIMMs.
VSIMM in slot 1

Front view

VSIMM in slot 6

Back view
WSE2M058

Figure 6-4. High 3D graphics module

Three-Dimensional Graphics Modules 6–9

Troubleshooting a Low 3D or Mid 3D Graphics Module
Troubleshoot a low or mid 3D graphics module as follows:
If a 3D graphics test error message includes the phrase
(cnfgtbl= ???), the configuration table is corrupted.
1. Attempt to rebuild the configuration table. Type
t slot/mkcnfgtbl and press Return.
2. Then run the sram test. Type t slot/sram and press
Return.
If the sram test reports no errors, rebuilding the
configuration table corrected the problem.
If the sram test reports an error, run the stic test.
Type t slot/stic and press Return.
If the stic test reports no errors, replace the
graphics module. Refer to ‘‘How to Remove and
Install Option Module Hardware’’ in Chapter 1 for
directions.
If the problem persists after you replace the
graphics module, replace the system module.
If the fb, fbfill, or vdacsig test reports an error, the problem
is in the base graphics module or a VSIMM.
Note: If the fb test fails, the system often reports additional

graphics module errors. Whenever the fb test fails, always
troubleshoot the fb test failure first. Then check whether the
other tests continue to fail.

Check whether the error message ends with the phrase
vsimm= number, where number represents a string of
numbers.
If the error message includes no vsimm=number
phrase, the base graphics module has probably failed.
Replace the base graphics module.
If the error message ends with the phrase
vsimm=number, a VSIMM or z-buffer module has
probably failed.

6–10 Three-Dimensional Graphics Modules

Remove any z-buffer modules attached to the
graphics module and repeat the test.

If the problem persists, isolate the faulty VSIMMs.
The number string that follows vsimm= is a list of
the slot numbers of the problem VSIMMs separated
by zeros. For example, the string 103 indicates that
the VSIMM in slot 1 or slot 3 could be faulty.
2. Replace the failed VSIMM with a good VSIMM.
Refer to ‘‘To Remove and Install a VSIMM or
z-Buffer on a Graphics Module’’ in Chapter 1 for
directions.
3. After you insert a new VSIMM, run the graphics
test script to check the new VSIMM. Type
t slot/pst-t and press Return. If the fb, fbfill,
or vdacsig test still fails, replace the low or mid 3D
graphics module. Refer to ‘‘To Remove and Install a
VSIMM or z-Buffer Module on a Graphics Module’’
in Chapter 1 for directions.
If one of the following tests reports an error, the problem is
in the graphics module or the system module:
intrdma
i860
patrns
sdmaaddrs
shade
stamp
stic-reg
vdacreg
Move the low or mid 3D graphics module to option slots 1
and 2.
Caution: Never place the system unit cover on the system unit
when a low or mid 3D graphics module is in option slots 1 and
2. The system unit cover can damage the VSIMMs on top of the
graphics module when a low or mid 3D graphics module is in
option slots 1 and 2.

Three-Dimensional Graphics Modules 6–11

If the low or mid 3D graphics module still returns an
error code in the new slot, replace the low or mid 3D
graphics module. Refer to ‘‘To Remove and Install a
VSIMM or z-Buffer Module on a Graphics Module’’
Chapter 1 for directions.
If the low or mid 3D graphics module reports no errors
in the new slot, replace the system module.
If the monitor display has missing or extra pixels, replace
any VSIMMs on the low or mid 3D graphics module that
the error messages report are bad. If the problem persists
after you replace the failed VSIMM, replace the low or mid
3D graphics module.

6–12 Three-Dimensional Graphics Modules

Troubleshooting a High 3D Graphics Module
Troubleshoot a high 3D graphics module as follows:
If a 3D graphics tests error message includes the phrase
(cnfgtbl= ???), the configuration table is corrupted.
1. Attempt to rebuild the configuration table. Type
t slot/mkcnfgtbl and press Return.
2. Then run the sram test. Type t slot/sram and press
Return.
If the sram test reports no errors, rebuilding the
configuration table corrected the problem.
If the sram test reports an error, run the stic test.
Type t slot/stic and press Return.
If the stic test reports no errors, replace the
graphics module. Refer to ‘‘How to Remove and
Install Option Module Hardware’’ in Chapter 1 for
directions.
If the problem persists, replace the system
module.
If the fb, fbfill, or vdacsig test reports an error, the problem
is in the base graphics module or a VSIMM.
Note: If the fb test fails, the system often reports additional

graphics module errors. Whenever the fb test fails, always
troubleshoot the fb test failure first. Then check whether the
other tests continue to fail.

Three-Dimensional Graphics Modules 6–13

If the error message ends with the phrase
vsimm=number, a VSIMM has probably failed.
The string of numbers that follows vsimm= is a list of
the slot numbers of the problem VSIMMS separated by
zeros. For example, the string 103 indicates that the
VSIMM in slot 1 or slot 3 may be faulty.
Isolate the failed VSIMM and replace it with a good
VSIMM. Refer to ‘‘To Remove and Install a VSIMM or
z-Buffer Module on a Graphics Module’’ in Chapter 1
for directions.
After you replace the problem VSIMM, run the graphics
test script to check the new VSIMM. Type t slot/pst-t
and press Return. If the fb, fbfill, or vdacsig test still
fails, replace the high 3D graphics module. Refer to ‘‘To
Remove and Install a VSIMM or z-Buffer Module on a
Graphics Module’’ in Chapter 1 for directions.
If one of the following tests reports an error, the problem is
in the graphics module or the system module:
intrdma
i860
patrns
sdmaaddrs
shade
stamp
stic-reg
vdacreg
Replace the high 3D graphics module. Refer to ‘‘To Remove
and Install a VSIMM or z-Buffer Module on a Graphics
Module’’ in Chapter 1 for directions.
If the intrdma, i860, patrns, sdmaddrs, shade, stamp,
stic-reg, or vdacreg test fails after you replace the high 3D
graphics module, replace the system module.
If the monitor display has missing or extra pixels, replace
any VSIMMs on the high 3D graphics module that the error
messages report are bad. If the problem persists after you
replace the failed VSIMM, replace the high 3D graphics
module.

6–14 Three-Dimensional Graphics Modules

How to Upgrade from a Low to a Mid 3D Graphics Module
Upgrade a low 3D graphics module to a mid 3D graphics
module as follows.
1.

Insert the two VSIMMs in the graphics module upgrade
kit into slots 3 and 5. Refer to ‘‘To Remove and Install
a VSIMM or z-Buffer Module on a Graphics Module’’ in
Chapter 1 for directions.
Install the two VDACs in the upgrade kit onto the low 3D
graphics module.
a. Position the VDAC above the VDAC connector on the
low 3D graphics module. Figure 6-5 shows where to
find the VDAC socket.
b. Align the VDAC so that the arrow on the corner of the
chip points toward the graphics module video cable
connector. Figure 6-5 shows the correct VDAC position.
c. Move the VDAC so that the pins on the bottom of the
chip slide down into the recessed areas around each
hole on the VDAC socket.
d. Firmly and evenly press the VDAC all the way into the
VDAC connector.
Move the graphics module jumpers on the graphics module
to the correct position for the mid 3D graphics module.
Figure 6-6 shows where to place the graphics module
jumpers.

Three-Dimensional Graphics Modules 6–15

dex
betyiea
duu
c
auu
aiuau
dux
but
reaaee yiuac
aieae

WSE2M071

Figure 6-5. Inserting a VDAC onto a low 3D graphics module

6–16 Three-Dimensional Graphics Modules

Jumpers set for

mid three-dimensional graphics

low three-dimensional graphics

WSE2M072

Figure 6-6. 3D graphics module jumper settings

Three-Dimensional Graphics Modules 6–17

Individual 3D Graphics Module Self-Tests
All 3D modules use the same individual test commands and
error messages. The following entries explain each individual
3D graphics module test and its test commands and error
messages. Table 6-1 lists the name and command for each
individual 3D graphics test.
Table 6-1. 3D Graphics Tests
Test Name

Test Command

Dispatch utility
VSIMM address and data path test
i860 direct memory access (DMA) test
Full frame-buffer test
i860-host interrupt test
Stamp interface chip (STIC) DMA address test
Stamp interface chip (STIC) read and write test
i860 stamp interface chip (STIC) interrupt test
Stamp interface chip (STIC) interrupt test
3D patterns test
3D shade test
Static RAM (SRAM) test
SRAM fill test
3D stamp test
Stamp interface chip (STIC) registers test
Load ROM code utility

slot/dispatcher
t slot/fb buffer
t slot/i860/dma [action] [count]
t sloti860/fbfill [pattern] [buffer]
t slot/i860/intrhost
t slot/i860/sdmaaddr
t slot/i860/stic
t slot/i860/sticintr
t slot/intr- dma
t slot/patrns [action]
slot/shade
t slot/sram
t slot/sramfill [start] [end]
t slot/stamp
t slotstic-reg
t slot/utl/i860exc [mode] [code]
[location] [run]
t slot/mkcnfgtbl
t slot/vdac
t slot/vdacsig

3D configuration table utility
3D video digital-to-analog converter (VDAC) test
Video-digital-to-analog converter (VDAC) signature
test

6–18 Three-Dimensional Graphics Modules

Dispatch Utility
The dispatch utility calls individual tests invoked by the
system. This utility runs automatically whenever you run a
test.
Dispatch utility error messages

Dispatch utility error messages have the form
?TFL: slot/dispatcher (i860 -> description)
?TFL slot/dispatcher i860 -> indicates that the utility
reported an error.
description represents additional information that describes
the error.
Table 6-2 lists the error descriptions found in dispatch utility
error messages.
Table 6-2. Dispatch Utility Descriptions
Error Description

Meaning

(i860 -> HNG)

Host CPU timed out while waiting for the i860
chip to report whether the test passed or failed.
Host CPU timed out while waiting for the i860
chip to report that the test started.
i860 chip returned an invalid tests result. The
x represents the test result that the i860 chip
returned.
i860 chip could not identify the test sent by the
host CPU. The N represents the number of the
invalid test.

(i860 -> NOSTRT)
(i860 -> INVLD RSLT ?x)
(i860 -> NOSUCH TST
?N)

Three-Dimensional Graphics Modules 6–19

VSIMM Address and Data Path Test
The VSIMM address and data path test checks the address and
data paths to the VSIMMs. To run the address and data path
test, type t slot/fb buffer and press Return.
When you type the VSIMM address and data path test
command,
Replace slot with the slot number of the 3D graphics
module.
Replace buffer with a value that specifies the buffer you
want to test.
If you are testing a low or mid 3D graphics module,
specify 0 to test the VRAM. Specify 1 to test the
DRAM. Specify 2 to test the z-buffer modules, if any
are present. Specify an asterisk (*) to test all buffers.
If you are testing a high 3D graphics module, specify 0
or 1 to test the VRAM. Specify 2 or 3 to test the DRAM.
Specify an asterisk (*) to test all buffers.
VSIMM address and data path test error messages

VSIMM address and data path test error messages have the
form ?TFL: slot/fb (number: description)
?TFL slot/fb indicates that the VSIMM address and data
path test reported an error.
number represents a number that identifies when in the
test sequence the failure occurred.
description represents additional information that describes
the error.
Table 6-3 lists the error descriptions found in VSIMM address
and data path test error messages.

6–20 Three-Dimensional Graphics Modules

Table 6-3. VSIMM Address and Data Path Test Error Descriptions
Error Description

Meaning

cnfgtbl= ???

3D graphics module configuration table is
corrupted.
Buffer specification in test command is invalid. The
x represents the invalid buffer number.
Buffer specified in the test command is nonexistent.
STIC did not set end-of-packet bit during STIC
DMA.
STIC reported that it was busy when it should not
have been.
DMA operation failed to send pixel data to the
expected SRAM address.
Pixel miscompare occurred.

invld buff= x
buff x not prsnt
sticEOP=0, exp=1
?dma= sticbsy
?dma= nopxls
pxl[x1]= x2, buff=N,
vsimm=y

The x1 represents the x coordinate of the first
pixel that failed.
The x2 represents the actual data that was
read from the frame buffer.
The N represents the number of the buffer in
which the error occurred.
The vsimm value is a string of numbers
that includes the slot number of any failed
VSIMMs, with zeros separating the slot
numbers.

(addrmsk= x, buff=M,
vsimm= N)

Addressing error occurred.
The x represents a mask that indicates the
failing address lines.
The M represents the number of the buffer in
which the error occurred.
The vsimm value is the slot number of the
VSIMM that reported the error.

Three-Dimensional Graphics Modules 6–21

i860 Direct Memory Access (DMA) Test
The i860 DMA test uses the i860 chip to perform a write and
read operation on the system module memory. To run the
i860 DMA test, type t slot/i860/dma [action] [count] and press
Return.
When you type the i860 DMA test command,
Replace slot with the slot number of the 3D graphics
module.
Replace the optional action parameter with a number that
specifies the type of DMA the test performs.
Specify r to perform a read operation. A read operation
is the default value.
Specify w to perform a write operation.
Replace the optional count parameter with the number of
words included in the read or write operation. You must
specify a hexadecimal number from 1 to 80. The default
value is 80.
i860 DMA test error messages

i860 DMA test error messages have the form
?TFL: slot/i860/dma (number: description)
?TFL slot/i860/dma indicates that the i860 DMA test
reported an error.
number represents a number that indicates when in the
test sequence the failure occurred.
description represents additional information that describes
the error.
Table 6-4 lists the error descriptions found in test error
messages.

6–22 Three-Dimensional Graphics Modules

Table 6-4. i860 DMA Test Error Descriptions
Error Description

Meaning

STX: dmacnt > 128, =N

Value specified for the count parameter was
greater than 80 hexadecimal.
Test attempted to use an unaligned address.

STX: i860 addr unalgnd,
i860addr= x
i860->hst msg err
invld dma type x
4: i860 dma rd mscmp, cnt=
N, exp= x, act= y

hst tmout? i860 dma x
i860 dma rd, no strt
i860 dma wr, no strt
i860 dma wr mscmp, cnt= N,
exp= x, act= y

invld errno, err dma rd

Host CPU received an incomprehensible
message from the i860 chip.
Value specified for the action parameter was
invalid.
Data miscompare occurred during a read
operation. The cnt value is the number of
the individual read operation that reported
the miscompare. The exp value is what the
value to be read should be. The act value is
the actual value that was read.
Host CPU timed out while waiting for the
i860 chip to report that a DMA is finished.
DMA read operation did not start or
transferred no data.
DMA write operation did not start or
transferred no data.
Data miscompare occurred during a write
operation. The cnt value is the number of
the individual write operation that reported
the miscompare. The exp value is what the
value to be written should be. The act value
is the actual value that was written.
i860 chip reported an error that the host
CPU did not understand.

Three-Dimensional Graphics Modules 6–23

Full Frame-Buffer Test
The full frame-buffer test performs a read and write operation
on each cell in one 1280 x 1024 pixel frame buffer. To run the
full frame-buffer test, type t sloti860/fbfill [pattern] [buffer] and
press Return.
When you type the full frame-buffer test command,
Replace slot with the slot number of the 3D graphics
module.
Replace pattern with a specific pattern that you want to use
in the read and write operation. Specify any pattern from
000000 to ffffff. The default value is ffffff.
Replace buffer with a value that specifies the buffer you
want to test.
If you are testing a low or mid 3D graphics module,
specify 0 to test the VRAM. Specify 1 to test the
DRAM. Specify 2 to test the z-buffer modules, if any
are present. Specify an asterisk (*) to test all buffers.
If you are testing a high 3D graphics module, specify 0
or 1 to test the VRAM. Specify 2 or 3 to test the DRAM.
Specify an asterisk (*) to test all buffers.
Full frame-buffer test error messages

Full frame-buffer test error messages have the form
?TFL: slot/i860/fbfill (number: description)
?TFL slot/i860/fbfill indicates that the full frame-buffer test
reported an error.
number represents a number that indicates when in the
test sequence the error occurred.
description represents additional information that describes
the error.
Table 6-5 lists the error descriptions found in full frame-buffer
test error messages.

6–24 Three-Dimensional Graphics Modules

Table 6-5. Full Frame-Buffer Test Error Descriptions
Error Description

Meaning

cnfgtbl= ???

3D graphics module configuration table is
corrupted.
Buffer specified in the test command is nonexistent.
The N represents the invalid buffer number that
was specified in the test command.
STIC did not set the end-of-packet bit during STIC
DMA.
DMA occurred during a test on a frame-buffer scan
line. The line value is the y coordinate of the scan
line.
STIC reported that it was busy when it should not
have been.
STIC reported that it was busy when it should not
have been. The line value is the y-coordinate of the
pixel that returned the busy signal.
DMA operation failed to send pixel data to the
expected SRAM address. The line value is the y
coordinate of the frame buffer scan line.
Cell miscompare occurred.

buff N not prsnt
sticEOP=0, exp=1
sticEOP=0, exp=1,
line= x
?dma= sticbsy
?dma= sticbsy, line= x
?dma= nopxls, line= x
pxl= x, exp=y, line=
M,vsimm= N

The x represents the actual data for the failed
pixel.
The y represents the actual y coordinate for
that pixel.
The M represents the number of the line in
which the error occurred.
The vsimm value lists the slot number of any
failed VSIMMs, with zeros separating the slot
numbers.

? invld errno ?

i860 chip returned an error number that the host
CPU cannot interpret.

Three-Dimensional Graphics Modules 6–25

i860-Host Interrupt Test
The i860-host interrupt test attempts to have the i860 and host
CPU interrupt each other. To run the i860-host interrupt test,
type t slot/i860/intrhost, where you replace slot with the slot
number of the 3D graphics module, and press Return.
i860-host interrupt test error messages

i860-host interrupt test error messages have the form
?TFL: slot/i860/intrhost (number: description)
?TFL slot/i860/intrhost indicates that the i860-host
interrupt test reported an error.
number represents a number that indicates when in the
test sequence the error occurred.
description represents additional information that describes
the error.
Table 6-6 lists the error descriptions found in i860-host
interrupt test error messages.
Table 6-6. i860-Host Interrupt Test Error Descriptions
Error Description

Meaning

i860->hst msg err

Host CPU could not interpret a message
sent by the i860 chip.
Host CPU timed out while waiting for
the i860 chip to report that it had been
interrupted.
i860 timed out waiting for an interrupt from
the host CPU.
i860 reported an unrecognizable status
while waiting to be interrupted.
Host CPU was unable to clear all pending
interrupts.
Host CPU timed out while waiting to be
interrupted.

hst tmout, i860 not intr
i860 tmout, hst->i860 not intr
hst->i860 unknown stat= n
(4:i860->hst no clr intr)
(5: i860->hst no intr)

6–26 Three-Dimensional Graphics Modules

Stamp Interface Chip (STIC) DMA Address Test
The STIC DMA address test checks the ability of the STIC to
perform a DMA to different addresses in SRAM. To run the
STIC DMA address test, type t slot/i860/sdmaaddr, where you
replace slot with the slot number of the 3D graphics module,
and press Return.
STIC DMA address test error messages

STIC DMA address test error messages have the form
?TFL: slot/i860/sdmaaddr (number: description)
?TFL slot/i860/sdmaaddr indicates that the STIC DMA
address test reported an error.
number represents a number that identifies when in the
test sequence the error occurred.
description represents additional information that describes
the error.
Table 6-7 lists the error descriptions found in STIC DMA
address test error messages.
Table 6-7. STIC DMA Address Test Error Descriptions
Error Description

Meaning

sticEOP=0, exp=1

STIC did not set the end-of-packet bit
during STIC DMA.
STIC reported that it was busy when it
should not have been.
STIC did not DMA pixel data to the correct
SRAM address. The dmaaddr value is
the address where the error occurred. The
sticaddr value is the dmaaddr value mapped
into the STIC address range.
i860 returned an error number that the
CPU does not understand.

?dma= sticbsy
NoPxls! dmaadrr= x,
sticaddr= y

? invld errno ?

Three-Dimensional Graphics Modules 6–27

Stamp Interface Chip (STIC) Read and Write Test
The STIC read and write test performs a read and write
operation on the STIC registers. To run the STIC read and
write test, type t slot/i860/stic, where you replace slot with the
slot number of the 3D graphics module, and press Return.
STIC read and write test error messages

STIC read and write test error messages have the form
?TFL: slot/i860/stic (number: description)
?TFL slot/i860/stic indicates that the STIC read and write
test reported an error.
number represents a number that identifies when in the
test sequence the error occurred.
description represents additional information that describes
the error.
Table 6-8 lists the error descriptions found in STIC read and
write test error messages.
Table 6-8. STIC Read and Write Test Error Descriptions
Error Description

Meaning

sticCSR= x, exp= y, sram= n

STIC read and write operation failed. The
sticCSR value is the actual value in the
STIC CSR register. The exp value is what
the STIC CSR register value should be.
The sram value is the number of the SRAM
module that has the bidirectional register
for that particular STIC register.
STIC read and write operation failed. The
sticCSR value is the actual value in the
STIC CSR register. The exp value is what
the STIC CSR register value should be.
The sram value is the number of the SRAM
module that has the bidirectional register
for that particular STIC register.

sticCSR= x, exp= y, sram= N

(continued on next page)

6–28 Three-Dimensional Graphics Modules

Table 6-8 (Cont.). STIC Read and Write Test Error Descriptions
Error Description

Meaning

busadr= x, exp= y, sram= N

STIC read and write operation failed. The
busadr value is the actual value in the
BUSADR register. The exp value is what
the value in the BUSADR register should
be. The sram value is the number of the
SRAM module that has the bidirectional
register for that particular STIC register.
i860 returned an error number that the
CPU does not understand.

? invld errno ?

Three-Dimensional Graphics Modules 6–29

i860 Stamp Interface Chip (STIC) Interrupt Test
The i860 STIC interrupt test checks the STIC vertical and endof-packet interrupts. To run the i860 STIC interrupt test, type t
slot/i860/sticintr, where you replace slot with the slot number
of the 3D graphics module, and press Return.
i860 STIC interrupt test error messages

i860 STIC interrupt test error messages have the form
?TFL: slot/i860/sticintr (number: description)
?TFL slot/sticintr indicates that the i860 STIC interrupt
test reported an error.
number represents a number that identifies when in the
test sequence the error occurred.
description represents additional information that describes
the error.
Table 6-9 lists the error descriptions found in i860 STIC
interrupt test error messages.
Table 6-9. i860 STIC Interrupt Test Error Descriptions
Error Description

Meaning

tmout: no vrt retrce intr

i860 chip timed out while waiting for a
vertical retrace interrupt.
STIC did not set end-of-packet bit in the
interrupt register after the STIC sent a
graphics command package.
STIC reported that it was busy when it
should not have been.
i860 chip did not receive a STIC end-ofpacket interrupt.
DMA operation sent no pixel data or sent
the data to the wrong SRAM address.
i860 chip returned an error number that the
host CPU could not interpret.

EOP intr bit nt set
?dma= sticbsy
EOP > i860 nt intr
?dma=noPxls
? invld errno

6–30 Three-Dimensional Graphics Modules

Stamp Interface Chip (STIC) Interrupt Test
The STIC interrupt test checks the ability of the STIC to
handle vertical and end-of-packet interrupts. To run the STIC
interrupt test, type t slot/intr-dma, where you replace slot with
the slot number of the 3D graphics module, and press Return.
STIC interrupt test error messages

STIC interrupt test error messages have the form
?TFL: slot/intr-dma (number: description)
?TFL slot/intr-dma indicates that the STIC interrupt test
reported an error.
number represents a number that identifies when in the
test sequence the error occurred.
description represents additional information that describes
the error.
Table 6-10 lists the error descriptions found in STIC interrupt
test error messages.
Table 6-10. STIC Interrupt Test Error Descriptions
Error Description

Meaning

intr tmout v_retrce=0: exp= 1

Host CPU timed out while waiting for a
vertical retrace interrupt.
System did not set the vertical retrace bit in
the STIC interrupt register.
System did not set the end-of-packet bit in
the STIC interrupt register.
STIC reported that it was busy when it
should not have been.
DMA operation did not send pixel data to
the correct SRAM address.

no v_retrce intr
3: sticEOP=0: exp=1
?dma= sticBSY
?dma= noPxls

Three-Dimensional Graphics Modules 6–31

3D Patterns Test
The 3D patterns test displays a series of patterns on the
monitor. To run the 3D patterns test, type t slot/patrns [action]
and press Return.
When you type the 3D patterns test command,
Replace slot with the slot number of the 3D graphics
module.
Replace the optional action parameter with the value that
specifies how the monitor displays the patterns.
Specify 0 to have the test display the patterns without
stopping. The default value is zero.
Specify 1 to have each pattern remain on the monitor
until you press any key on the keyboard.
3D patterns test error messages

3D patterns test error messages have the form
?TFL: slot/patrns (number: description)
?TFL slot/patrns indicates that the 3D patterns test
reported an error.
number represents a number that indicates when in the
test sequence the error occurred.
description represents additional information that describes
the error.
Table 6-11 lists the error descriptions found in 3D patterns test
error messages.
Table 6-11. 3D Patterns Test Error Descriptions
Error Description

Meaning

cnfgTbl= ???

Configuration table for the 3D graphics module is
corrupted.
STIC did not set the end-of-packet bit during a
STIC DMA.
STIC reported that it was busy when it should not
have been.

sticEOP=0, exp=1
?dma= sticbsy

6–32 Three-Dimensional Graphics Modules

3D Shade Test
The 3D shade test checks the ability of the stamp chip to
produce smooth shades and calculate half-space coordinates.
To run the 3D shade test, type slot/shade, where you replace
slot with the slot number of the 3D graphics module, and press
Return.
Shade and half-space test error messages

Shade and half-space test error messages have the form
?TFL: slot/shade (number: description)
?TFL slot/shade indicates that the shade and half-space test
reported an error.
number represents a number that indicates when in the
test sequence the error occurred.
description represents additional information that describes
the error.
Table 6-12 describes the error descriptions found in shade and
half-space test error messages.
Table 6-12. Shade and Half-Space Test Error Descriptions
Error Description

Meaning

cnfgTbl??
sticEOP=0, exp=1

3D configuration table is corrupted.
STIC did not set end-of-packet bit in the
STIC interrupt register.
STIC reported that it was busy when it
should not have been.
System discovered a pixel miscompare
while verifying that the smooth, shaded
triangle was drawn correctly. The indx
value is the number of the pixel in which
the miscompare occurred. The stamp value
is the number of the stamp chip involved in
the miscompare.
DMA operation sent no pixels or did not
send pixels to the expected SRAM address.

?dma= sticbsy
tri smth shd err, indx=i,
stamp= s

?dma= NoPxls

(continued on next page)

Three-Dimensional Graphics Modules 6–33

Table 6-12 (Cont.). Shade and Half-Space Test Error Descriptions
Error Description

Meaning

(8: Zbuff tri smth shd err,
indx=i, stamp=s)

A pixel miscompare was discovered while
writing to the z-buffer to verify that
the smooth, shaded triangle was drawn
correctly. The indx value is the number of
the pixel in which the miscompare occurred.
The stamp value is the number of the stamp
chip involved in the miscompare.
STAMP chip did not calculate half-space
coordinates correctly.

(hlf_spc=x, exp= y, ln=m, pxl=
n), stamp= s

The x represents the actual pixel data.
The y represents the expected pixel
data.
The m represents the line where the
error occurred.
The n represents the pixel where the
error occurred.
The s represents the stamp chip in
which the error occurred.
Zbuf hlf_spc=x, exp= y, ln=m,
pxl= n, stamp= s

STAMP chip did not calculate z-buffer
half-space coordinates correctly.
The x represents the actual pixel data.
The y represents the expected pixel
data.
The m represents the line where the
error occurred.
The n represents the pixel in which the
error occurred.
The s represents the number of the
stamp chip that reported the error.

6–34 Three-Dimensional Graphics Modules

Static RAM (SRAM) Test
The SRAM test writes walking 1 and 0 patterns to the 3D
module SRAM through the data and address paths. To run the
SRAM test, type t slot/sram, where you replace slot with the
graphics module slot number, and press Return.
Static RAM test error messages

Static RAM test error messages have the form
?TFL: slot/sram (number: description)
?TFL slot/sram indicates that the static RAM test reported
an error.
number represents a number that indicates when in the
test sequence the error occurred.
description represents additional information that describes
the error.
Table 6-13 lists the error descriptions found in SRAM test error
messages.

Three-Dimensional Graphics Modules 6–35

Table 6-13. SRAM Test Error Descriptions
Error Description

Meaning

x= y, exp=z, sram=N

Data miscompare occurred. The x
represents the address where the error
occurred. The y represents the actual value
at that address. The z represents what the
actual value should be. The N represents
the number of the SRAM module that
reported the error.
Read operation failed to return either the
test pattern or the pattern written to an
alternate address.

t_addr[x1]= x2, exp=x3; o_
addr[y1]= y2, exp=y3

The x1 represents the address being
tested. The x2 represents the value
found at that address. The x3
represents what the value at that
address should be.
The y1 represents the alternate
address. The y2 represents the value
found at the alternate address. The
represents what the value at the
alternate address should be.
addrMsk= x, sram#= N

6–36 Three-Dimensional Graphics Modules

Error occurred in an address line. The
x represents a mask that identifies the
specific lines that reported the error. The
N represents the number of the SRAM that
reported the error.

SRAM Fill Test
The SRAM fill test performs a write and read operation on
every SRAM cell of the 3D graphics module. To run the SRAM
fill test, type t slot/sramfill [start] [end] and press Return.
When you type the SRAM fill test command,
Replace slot with the slot number of the 3D graphics
module.
Replace the optional start parameter with the address at
which you want the test to start. Specify a value from 0
to 1fffc that is less than the specified ending address. The
default value is zero.
Replace the optional end parameter with the address at
which you want the test to stop. Specify a value from 0 to
1fffc than is greater than the starting address. The default
value is 1fffc.
SRAM fill test error messages

SRAM fill test error messages have the form
?TFL: slot/sramfill (number: description)
?TFL slot/sramfill indicates that the SRAM fill test reported
an error.
number represents a number that indicates when in the
test sequence the error occurred.
description represents additional information that describes
the error.
Table 6-14 lists the error descriptions found in SRAM fill test
error messages.

Three-Dimensional Graphics Modules 6–37

Table 6-14. SRAM Fill Test Error Descriptions
Error Description

Meaning

STX addr invld lo= x,
hi= y

Test command included invalid test parameters.
The lo value is the starting test address. The hi
value is the ending test address.
Miscompare occurred. The mscmp value is the
actual value that was read from the low address.
The exp value is the value the low address should
contain. The lo value is the low address where the
miscompare occurred. The hi value is the ending
test address. The sram value is the number of the
SRAM where the miscompare occurred.

mscmp= x, exp= y,
lo= adr1, hi= addr2,
sram= N

6–38 Three-Dimensional Graphics Modules

3D Stamp Test
The 3D stamp test checks stamp chip ALU operation and
the lower 32 SDAL lines. To run the 3D stamp test, type t
slot/stamp, where you replace slot with the slot number of the
3D graphics module, and press Return.
3D stamp test error messages

3D stamp test error messages have the form
?TFL: slot/stamp (number: description)
?TFL slot/stamp indicates that the 3D stamp test reported
an error.
number represents a number that indicates when in the
test sequence the error occurred.
description represents additional information that describes
the error.
Table 6-15 lists the error descriptions found in 3D stamp test
error messages.

Three-Dimensional Graphics Modules 6–39

Table 6-15. 3D Stamp Test Error Descriptions
Error Description

Meaning

cnfgTbl= ???

3D graphics module configuration table
is corrupted.
STIC did not set end-of-packet bit in
STIC DMA.
STIC reported that it was busy when it
should not have been.
Test did not send pixel data to the correct
SRAM address.
An ALU error caused a pixel miscompare. The N represents the number of
the ALU where the error occurred. The
x represents the value found at the ALU
that reported the error. The exp value
is what the value at the ALU should be.
The stamp value is the number of the
SRAM chip that reported the error.
SDAL line reported an error. The SDAL
value is the actual value read from the
SDAL line where the error occurred. The
exp value is what the value in the SDAL
line should be. The stamp value is the
number of the SRAM chip that reported
the error.

sticEOP=0, exp=1
?dma= sticBSY
?dma= noPxls
ALU[#N]= x, exp= y, stamp= N

SDAL= x, exp= y, stamp= N

6–40 Three-Dimensional Graphics Modules

Stamp Interface Chip (STIC) Registers Test
The STIC registers test performs a read and write operation
on the STIC registers and then performs a STIC self-test. To
run the STIC registers test, type t slot/stic, where you replace
slot with the slot number of the 3D graphics module, and press
Return.
STIC registers test error messages

STIC registers test error messages have the form
?TFL: slot/stic (number: description)
?TFL slot/stic indicates that the STIC registers test
reported an error.
number represents a number that indicates when in the
test sequence the error occurred.
description represents additional information that describes
the error.
Table 6-16 lists the error descriptions found in STIC registers
test error messages.

Three-Dimensional Graphics Modules 6–41

Table 6-16. STIC Registers Test Error Descriptions
Error Description

Meaning

sticCSR= x, exp=y, sram= N

STIC CSR read and write operation failed.
The sticCSR value is the actual value in the
STIC CSR register. The exp value is what
the value in the STIC CSR register should
be. The sram value is the number of the
SRAM that has the bidirectional register
that feeds the failing STIC register.
32-bit read and write operation failed. The
busadr value is the actual value in the
BUSADR register. The sram value is the
number of the SRAM with the bidirectional
register that feeds the failing STIC register.
32-bit read and write operation failed. The
busadr value is the actual value in the
BUSADR register. The sram value is the
number of the SRAM with the bidirectional
register that feeds the failing STIC register.
Self-test failed at cycle count of 2000. The
x represents the actual value in the STIC
register. The y represents what the value in
the STIC register should be.
Self-test failed at cycle count of 20,000. The
x represents the actual value in the STIC
register. The y represents what the value in
the STIC register should be.

busadr= x, exp= y, busdat= z,
sram= N

busdat= x, exp= y, busadr= z,
sram= N

sig@2000= x; exp=y

sig@20000= x; exp=y

6–42 Three-Dimensional Graphics Modules

Load ROM Code Utility
The load ROM code utility loads code into the i860. The code
then runs a basic self-test on the i860 chip. To run the load
ROM code utility, type t slot/utl/i860exc [mode] [code] [location]
[run] and press Return.
When you type the load ROM code utility command,
Replace slot with the slot number of the 3D graphics
module.
Replace the optional mode parameter with the value that
specifies the action the load ROM code utility should take.
Specify f to have the utility start the i860 chip whether
or not the chip is currently running. The default value
is f.
Specify k to stop the i860 chip only.
Specify s to start the i860 chip only if the chip is not
operating.
Replace the optional code parameter with the value that
specifies the type of code to load.
Specify j to load only the jump vector segment.
Specify d to load only the main diagnostics for the 3D
module.
Specify an asterisk (*) to load both the jump vector and
the main diagnostics. An asterisk is the default value.
Replace the optional location parameter with the value that
specifies where the utility searches for the ROM code.
Specify sys to search for i860 code in system module
memory.
Specify rom to search for i860 code in the 3D graphics
module ROM chip. The default value is rom.
Replace the optional run parameter with the value that
specifies whether to start the i860 chip after the ROM code
is loaded.
Specify e to start the i860 chip after the utility loads
the ROM code.

Three-Dimensional Graphics Modules 6–43

Specify n not to start the i860 chip after the utility
loads the ROM code.
Load ROM code utility error messages

Load ROM code utility error messages have the form
?TFL: slot/utl/i860exc (number: description)
?TFL slot/utl/i860exc indicates that the load ROM code
utility reported an error.
number represents a number that indicates when in the
test sequence the error occurred.
description represents additional information that describes
the error.
Table 6-17 lists the error descriptions found in load ROM code
utility error messages.

6–44 Three-Dimensional Graphics Modules

Table 6-17. Load ROM Code Utility Error Descriptions
Error Description

Meaning

STX: mode= s???

Mode parameter in the utility command is
invalid. The s represents the invalid value
used in the command.
Run parameter in the utility command is
invalid. The s represents the invalid value
used in the command.
Code parameter in the utility command is
invalid. The s represents the invalid value
used in the command.
Location parameter in the utility command
is invalid. The s represents the invalid
value used in the command.
Host CPU could not interpret code wrapper.
The x represents the specific field that
the CPU could not interpret. The y
represents the value found in that field.
The z represents what the value should be.
Host CPU could not find the wrapper for a
code segment and was unable to load the
ROM code.
Host CPU timed out while waiting for the
i860 chip to report a pass or fail condition.
One of the i860 chip self-tests failed. The
N represents the number of the failed test.
The x1 represents the high 32-bits of the
actual data that the test returned. The x2
represents what the high 32-bits should be.
The y1 represents the low 32-bits of the
actual data that the test returned. The y2
represents what the low 32-bits should be.
i860 CPU never started.

STX: execut= s???
STX: code= s???
STX: loc s???
invld rom wrppr! src@x= y,
exp= z

wrppr not fnd! exp=x
TMOUT! i860 bsy
errno= N, hi=x1, exp= x2 lo=
y1, exp= y2

i860 nogo

Three-Dimensional Graphics Modules 6–45

3D Configuration Table Utility
The 3D configuration table utility builds the 3D configuration
table in the SRAM on the 3D graphics module. To run the
3D build configuration table utility, type t slot/mkcnfgtbl,
where you replace slot with the slot number of the 3D graphics
module, and press Return.
Note:: Most 3D graphics tests require a valid 3D configuration table.

If a 3D graphics test returns the error message cnfgTbl= ???, use the
3D configuration table utility to rebuild the 3D configuration table.
3D configuration table utility error messages

3D configuration table utility error messages have the form
?TFL: slot/mkcnfgtbl (number: description)
?TFL slot/mkcnfgtbl indicates that the 3D build configuration utility reported an error.
number represents a number that indicates when in the
test sequence the error occurred.
description represents additional information that describes
the error.
Table 6-18 lists the error descriptions found in 3D configuration
table utility error messages.

6–46 Three-Dimensional Graphics Modules

Table 6-18. 3D Build Configuration Table Utility Error Descriptions
Error Description

Meaning

stampCnfg= x, exp= y

Host CPU read an unknown stamp chip
configuration from the STIC MODTYPE
register. The x represents the actual value
that the host CPU read. The y represents
the value that the host CPU should have
read.
Host CPU read an incorrect VDAC ID when
building the configuration table. The x
represents the incorrect VDAC ID that the
host CPU read. The exp value is what the
VADC ID should be.
STIC did not set the end-of-packet bit
during STIC DMA.
DMA sent no pixel data or sent pixel data
to an incorrect SRAM address.
z-buffer configuration is unknown. The
numbers that follow cnt8, cnt16, and cnt24
are the 8-plane, 16-plane, and 24-plane
pixel values that the system counted.
Host CPU read an unknown stamp chip
configuration from the STIC MODTYPE
register. The x represents the actual value
that the host CPU read. The y represents
the value that the host CPU should have
read.

vdacID= x, exp= (id))

(2: sticEOP=0, exp=1)
(2: sticDMA= NoPxls)
ZbuffCnfg: cnt8= x; cnt16= y;
cnt24= z; cnthuh= i)
stampCnfg= x,
exp= y

Three-Dimensional Graphics Modules 6–47

3D Video Digital-to-Analog Converter (VDAC) Test
The 3D VDAC test checks the VDAC registers and color map.
To run the 3D VDAC test, type t slot/vdac, where you replace
slot with the slot number of the 3D graphics module, and press
Return.
3D VDAC test error messages

3D VDAC test error messages have the form
?TFL: slot/vdac (number: description)
?TFL slot/vdac indicates that the 3D vdac test reported an
error.
number represents a number that indicates when in the
test sequence the error occurred.
description represents additional information that describes
the error.
Table 6-19 lists the error descriptions found in 3D VDAC test
error messages.
Table 6-19. 3D VDAC Test Error Descriptions
Error Description

Meaning

cnfgTbl= ???
vdacID= x: exp= 4a
<alo= y, ahi= z>

3D configuration table is corrupted.
VDAC ID is not 4a, which is the correct value. The
x represents the VDAC ID that the host read. The
alo value is the value in the address low register.
The ahi value is the value in the address high
register.
The VDAC read and write operation on the address
low register failed. The x1 represents the actual
value in the address low register. The exp value is
what the value in the address low register should
be. The ahi value is the value in the address high
register, which should be a5.

(2:alo= x1, exp= x2:
<ahi= y, exp= a5>)

(continued on next page)

6–48 Three-Dimensional Graphics Modules

Table 6-19 (Cont.). 3D VDAC Test Error Descriptions
Error Description

Meaning

(3:Rcmap= x1: exp=
x2: <alo= y1, ahi=
y2>)

Red color map contained an incorrect value. The
x1 represents the incorrect value in the color map.
The x2 represents what the color map value should
be. The alo value is the value in the address low
register. The ahi value is the value in the address
high register.
Green color map contained an incorrect value. The
x1 represents the incorrect value in the color map.
The x2 represents what the color map value should
be. The alo value is the value in the address low
register. The ahi value is the value in the address
high register.
Blue color map contained an incorrect value. The
x1 represents the incorrect value in the color map.
The x2 represents what the color map value should
be. The alo value is the value in the address low
register. The ahi value is the value in the address
high register.

(4:Gcmap= x1: exp=
x2: <alo= y1, ahi=
y2>)

(5:Bcmap= x1: exp=
x2: <alo= y1, ahi=
y2>)

Three-Dimensional Graphics Modules 6–49

Video Digital-to-Analog Converter (VDAC) Signature Test
The VDAC signature test checks the output from the VSIMM to
the VDAC. To run the VDAC signature test, type t slot/vdacsig,
where you replace slot with the slot number of the 3D graphics
module, and press Return.
VDAC signature test error messages

VDAC signature test error messages have the form
?TFL: slot/vdacsig (number: description)
?TFL slot/vdacsig indicates that the VDAC signature test
reported an error.
number represents a number that indicates when in the
test sequence the error occurred.
description represents additional information that describes
the error.
Table 6-20 lists the error descriptions found in VDAC signature
test error messages.

6–50 Three-Dimensional Graphics Modules

Table 6-20. VDAC Signature Test Error Descriptions
Error Description

Meaning

cnfgTbl= ???
sticEOP=0, exp=1

3D configuration table is corrupted.
STIC did not set the end-of-packet bit during STIC
DMA.
STIC reported that it was busy when it should not
have been.
Signature miscompare occurred. The Pxl[N] value,
where N represents the number of the pixel in
which the miscompare occurred, is the signature
that the test read.

?dma= sticbsy
Pxl[N]= x, R[r1]= r2,
G[g1]= g2, B[b1]= b2;
vsimm= V

The x represents what the signature value
should be.
The r1, g1, and b1 values are the actual values
for the red, green, and blue signatures.
The r2, g2, and b2 values are what the red,
green, and blue signatures should be.
The V value is a list of the problem VSIMM
slot numbers separated by zeros.

Three-Dimensional Graphics Modules 6–51

Part II
Communications Controllers

7
Ethernet Controllers
This chapter discusses the following items for Ethernet
controller modules:
Hardware
Troubleshooting procedures
Individual Ethernet controller tests

Ethernet Controllers 7–1

Ethernet Controller Hardware
Each Ethernet controller provides an Ethernet connection.
Base systems can have a ThinWire or ThickWire Ethernet
controller on the system module and can support up to three
additional ThickWire Ethernet controllers in the option slots.
Figure 7-1 shows the ThickWire Ethernet controller option
module and its connectors.

7–2 Ethernet Controllers

ThickWire Ethernet
connector

Front view

ThickWire ESAR chip

Ethernet expansion
slot connector

Back view
WSE2M028

Figure 7-1. ThickWire Ethernet controller option module

Ethernet Controllers 7–3

Troubleshooting an Ethernet Controller Module
If one of the following tests reports an error, replace the Ethernet
controller.
cllsn
crc
esar
init
int-lb
m-cst
promisc
ram
regs
The slot number in the error message is the slot number of the
problem Ethernet controller.
If the ext test reports an error, make sure that the Ethernet
connection is sound. Then run the Ethernet external loopback
test described in the following section.
If the Ethernet connection is sound and the Ethernet controller
still fails the external loopback test, replace the faulty Ethernet
controller.
If the faulty Ethernet controller is on the system module,
replace the system module. Refer to the maintenance guide
for the base system that has the faulty Ethernet controller.
If the faulty Ethernet controller is on an option module,
replace the option module. Be sure to insert the ESAR chip
on the old Ethernet option module onto the new Ethernet
option module. Refer to ‘‘To Remove and Install an Option
Module’’ in Chapter 1 for directions.
For more information about an Ethernet controller failure, refer
to the description of the individual Ethernet controller tests
later in this chapter.

7–4 Ethernet Controllers

Individual Ethernet Controller Tests
The following pages explain each individual Ethernet controller
test and its command and error messages.
Table 7-1 lists the name and command for each individual
Ethernet controller test.
Table 7-1. Ethernet Controller Tests
Test Name

Test Command1

Collision test
Cyclic redundancy code(CRC) test
Ethernet station address (ESAR) test
External loopback test
Interrupt request (IRQ) test
Internal loopback test
Multicast test
Promiscuous mode test
Ethernet RAM test
Registers test

slot/cllsn [offset]
slot/crc [offset]
slot/esar
slot/ext-lb [offset]
slot/int [offset]
slot/int-lb [offset]
slot/m-cst [offset]
slot/promisc [offset]
slot/ram [offset] [increment]
slot/regs

1 The slot variable represents the slot number of the failed controller or module.

Ethernet Controllers 7–5

Collision Test
The collision test checks Ethernet collision detect circuitry by
forcing a collision on transmission. To run the collision test,
type t slot/cllsn [offset] and press Return.
When you type the collision test command,
Replace slot with the slot number of the Ethernet controller
that you want to test.
Replace the optional offset parameter with the Ethernet
RAM address where you want the test to start. The offset
parameter must be between 0 and 1F000.
Collision test error messages

Collision test error messages have the form
?TFL: slot/cllsn [PAD-AA] (code: description).
?TFL: slot/cllsn [PAD-AA] indicates that the collision test
reported a problem.
code represents a number that identifies the type of failure
that occurred.
description represents additional information that describes
the failure.
Table 7-2 lists the error codes and error descriptions found in
collision test error messages.
Table 7-2. Collision Test Error Codes and Descriptions
Error Code and Description

Meaning

(1: rd ESAR err)

Error occurred when the system tried to
access the Ethernet station address ROM.
Error occurred in transmitting a packet.
Ethernet controller chip failed to detect an
Ethernet collision.
Ethernet controller chip transmission failed.
Ethernet controller chip failed to initialize.

(2: xmt err)
(3: cllsn not dtctd)
(4: xmt [x])
(6: LANCE-init [x])

7–6 Ethernet Controllers

Cyclic Redundancy Code (CRC) Test
The cyclic redundancy code (CRC) test checks the Ethernet
CRC verification and bad CRC detection abilities. To run the
CRC test, type t slot/crc [offset] and press Return.
When you type the CRC test command,
Replace slot with the slot number of the Ethernet controller
you want to test.
Replace the optional offset parameter with the Ethernet
address where you want the test to start. The offset
parameter must be between 0 and 1F000.
CRC test error messages

CRC test error messages have the form
?TFL: slot/crc [PAD-AA] (code: description).
?TFL: slot/crc [PAD-AA] indicates that the CRC test
reported a problem.
code represents a number that identifies the type of failure
that occurred.
description represents additional information statement
that describes the failure.
Table 7-3 lists the error codes and error descriptions found in
CRC test error messages.

Ethernet Controllers 7–7

Table 7-3. CRC Test Error Codes and Descriptions
Error Code and Description

Meaning

(1: ESAR rd err)

Test could not access the Ethernet station
address ROM.
System could not initialize the Ethernet
controller chip.
Error occurred during packet transmission.
Error occurred receiving a packet.
Ethernet chip flagged a good CRC on a
packet with a bad CRC.
Error occurred receiving a packet.
Error occurred when the test attempted to
initialize the Ethernet controller chip.
Error occurred transmitting data packet.
Error occurred receiving data packet.
Ethernet chip did not detect a bad CRC in
an incoming packet.
Error occurred in packet receive operation.

(2: LANCE-init [x])
(3: xmt [x])
(4: rcv err)
(5: fls CRC err)
(6: rcv [x])
(7: LANCE-init [x])
(8: xmt [x])
(9: rcv err)
(10: bad CRC not dtctd)
(11: rcv [x])

7–8 Ethernet Controllers

Ethernet Station Address ROM (ESAR) Test
The Ethernet station address ROM (ESAR) test checks the
ESAR on the Ethernet controller. To run the ESAR test, type
t slot/esar, where slot represents the slot number of the
Ethernet controller you want to test, and press Return.
ESAR test error messages

ESAR test error messages have the form
?TFL: slot/esar [PAD-AA] (code: description).
?TFL: slot/esar [PAD-AA] indicates that the ESAR test
reported a problem.
code represents a number that identifies the type of failure
that occurred.
description represents additional information that describes
the failure.
Table 7-4 lists error codes and descriptions found in ESAR test
error messages.
Table 7-4. ESAR Test Error Codes and Descriptions
Error Code and Description

Meaning

(1: ESAR)

Timeout occurred when the test tried to
read the ESAR.
First 6 bytes of the ESAR were all zero.
ESAR contained broadcast address.
ESAR checksum verification failed.
Reverse copy mismatch occurred.
Forward copy mismatch occurred.
Test pattern FF mismatch occurred.
Test pattern 00 mismatch occurred.
Test pattern 55 mismatch occurred.
Test pattern AA mismatch occurred.

(2: ESAR[0-5] = 0’s)
(3: ESAR[0] = brdcst-sdrs)
(5: checksum)
(7: rvrs cpy !=)
(8: frwrd cpy !=)
(9: ESAR[24-28] !=FF)
(10: ESAR[25-29] !=00)
(11: ESAR[26-30] =55)
(12: ESAR[27-31] !=AA)

Ethernet Controllers 7–9

External Loopback Test
The external loopback test checks the Ethernet controller and
its connection to the network.
Before you run the external loopback test, first install a
terminator or loopback connector on the Ethernet controller
you want to test.
To test a ThinWire Ethernet controller, install a terminated
ThinWire T-connector on the ThinWire connector.
To test a ThickWire Ethernet controller, install a ThickWire
loopback connector on the ThickWire connector.
To run the external loopback test, type t slot/ext-lb and press
Return. When you type this test command, replace slot with
the slot number of the Ethernet controller you want to test.
The external loopback test sends an external loopback packet
and tests the system connection to the network. To run the
external loopback test, type t slot/ext-lb [offset] and press
Return.
When you type the external loopback test command,
Replace slot with the slot number of the Ethernet module
you want to test.
Replace offset with a specific address between 0 and 1 F000
where you want the test to start.
External loopback test parameters and error codes

ESAR test error messages have the form
?TFL: slot/ext-1b [PAD-AA ] (code: description).
?TFL: slot/ext-lb [PAD-AA] indicates that the external
loopback test reported a problem.
code represents a number that identifies the type of failure
that occurred.
description represents additional information that describes
the failure.

7–10 Ethernet Controllers

Table 7-5 lists the error codes and descriptions found in
external loopback test error messages.
Table 7-5. External Loopback Test Error Codes and Descriptions
Error Code and Description

Meaning

(1: LANCE-init [x])

Error occurred initializing the Ethernet
controller chip.
The system could not access the Ethernet
station address ROM.
System did not transmit packet; Ethernet
connection is probably bad.
System did not receive packet.
Transmitted packet was not received.
Fatal error occurred.

(2: rd ESAR err)
(3: xmt [x, x] x)
(4: rcv [x,x])
(6: pkt-data !=)
(7)

Ethernet Controllers 7–11

Interrupt Request (IRQ) Test
The interrupt request (IRQ) test checks whether the Ethernet
controller can generate an interrupt to the R3000 chip. To run
the IRQ test, type t slot/int [offset] and press Return.
When you type the IRQ test command,
Replace slot with the slot number of the Ethernet controller
that you want to test.
Replace the optional offset parameter with an Ethernet
RAM buffer address between 0 and 1F000 where you want
the test to start.
IRQ test parameters and error codes

IRQ test error messages have the form
?TFL: slot/int [PAD-AA] (code: description).
?TFL: slot/int [PAD-AA] indicates that the IRQ test reported
a problem.
code represents a number that identifies the type of failure
that occurred.
description represents additional information that describes
the failure.
Table 7-6 lists the error codes and descriptions found in IRQ
test error messages.
Table 7-6. IRQ Test Error Codes and Descriptions
Error Code and Description

Meaning

(1:int pndng)
(2: init LANCE err = x)

Pending interrupt was invalid.
Error occurred when the system tried to
initialize the Ethernet controller chip.
System generated no interrupt on packet
transmission.

(4: intr err xmt-stat=x)

7–12 Ethernet Controllers

Internal Loopback Test
The internal loopback test sends and receives data packets
to and from Ethernet in internal loopback mode. To run the
internal loopback test, type t slot/int-lb [offset] and press
Return.
When you type the internal loopback test command,
Replace slot with the slot number of the Ethernet controller
you want to test.
Replace the optional offset parameter with a specific
Ethernet RAM address between 0 and 1F000 where you
want the test to start.
Internal loopback test parameters and error codes

Internal loopback test error messages have the form
?TFL: slot/int-lb [PAD-AA] (code: description).
?TFL: slot/int-lb [PAD-AA] indicates that the internal
loopback test reported a problem.
code represents a number that identifies the type of failure
that occurred.
description represents additional information that describes
the failure.
Table 7-7 lists the error codes and error descriptions found in
internal loopback test error messages.

Ethernet Controllers 7–13

Table 7-7. Internal Loopback Test Error Codes and Descriptions
Error Code and Description

Meaning

(1: rd ESAR err)

The system could not access the Ethernet
station address ROM.
Error occurred initializing the Ethernet
controller chip.
System did not transmit packet.
System did not receive packet.
Packets received and packets sent had
different sizes.
Data received and data sent did not match.
Received CRC was incorrect.

(2: LANCE-init [x])
(3: xmt [x])
(4: rcv [x])
(5: rcvd size=x, xptd=x)
(6: pkt-data !=)
(7)

7–14 Ethernet Controllers

Multicast Test
The multicast test checks the Ethernet ability to filter multicast
packets. To run the multicast test, type t slot/m-cst [offset] and
press Return.
When you type the multicast test command,
Replace slot with the slot number of the Ethernet controller
that you want to test.
Replace the optional offset parameter with a specific
Ethernet RAM address between 0 and 1F000 where you
want to start the test.
Multicast test error messages

Multicast test error messages have the form
?TFL: slot/m-cst [PAD-AA] (code: description).
?TFL: slot/m-cst [PAD-AA] indicates that the multicast test
reported a problem.
code represents a number that identifies the type of failure
that occurred.
description represents additional information that describes
the failure.
Table 7-8 lists the error codes and error descriptions found in
multicast test error messages.

Ethernet Controllers 7–15

Table 7-8. Multicast Test Error Codes and Descriptions
Error Message Code and
Description

(1: rd ESAR err)
(2: LANCE-init [x])2
(3: xmt [x])
(4: rcv err)
(5: rcvd invld m-cst)
(6: rcv [x])
(7: LANCE-init [x])
(8: xmt [x])
(9: rcv [x])

7–16 Ethernet Controllers

Meaning

Error occurred reading Ethernet station
address ROM.
System failed to initialize the Ethernet
controller chip.
Ethernet controller failed to send packet.
Ethernet controller failed to receive packet.
Ethernet controller received a multicast
packet when multicast function was
disabled.
Packet receive routine reported an error.
Error occurred when the system tried to
initialize the Ethernet chip.
Ethernet controller failed to transmit
packet.
Ethernet did not receive expected packet.

Promiscuous Mode Test
The promiscuous mode test checks that the Ethernet controller
can receive packets in promiscuous mode. To run the
promiscuous mode test, type t slot/promisc [offset] and press
Return.
When you type the promiscuous mode test command,
Replace slot with the slot number of the Ethernet controller
that you want to test.
Replace the optional offset parameter with a specific
Ethernet RAM buffer address between 0 and 1F000 where
you want to start the test.
Promiscuous mode test error messages

Promiscuous mode test error messages have the form
?TFL: slot/promisc [PAD-AA] (code: description).
?TFL: slot/promisc [PAD-AA] indicates that the promiscuous
mode test reported a problem.
code represents a number that identifies the type of failure
that occurred.
description represents additional information that describes
the failure.
Table 7-9 lists the error codes and error descriptions found in
promiscuous mode test error messages.

Ethernet Controllers 7–17

Table 7-9. Promiscuous Mode Test Error Codes and Descriptions
Error Message Code and
Description

(1: rd ESAR err)
(2: LANCE-init [x])
(3: xmt [x])
(4: rcv err)
(5: rcvd invld adrs)
(6: rcv [x])
(7: LANCE-init [x])
(8: xmt [x])
(9: rcv [x])

7–18 Ethernet Controllers

Meaning

System could not read the Ethernet station
address ROM.
Ethernet controller initialization failed.
Packet transmission failed.
Packet reception failed.
An inappropriate packet was received in
nonpromiscuous mode.
Packet receive routine failed.
System failed to initialize Ethernet
controller in promiscuous mode.
Packet transmission failed.
Ethernet did not receive the expected packet
while in promiscuous mode.

Ethernet RAM Test
The Ethernet RAM test checks the Ethernet RAM operation. To
run the Ethernet RAM test, type t slot/ram [offset] [increment]
and press Return.
When you type the Ethernet RAM test command,
Replace slot with the slot number of the Ethernet controller
you want to test.
Replace the optional offset parameter with a specific
address between 0 and 1F000 where you want the test
to start.
Replace the optional increment parameter with the value by
which the test increases the RAM buffer address for each
read and write operation.
Ethernet RAM test error messages

Ethernet RAM test error messages have the form
?TFL: slot/ram [PAD-AA] (code: description).
?TFL: slot/ram [PAD-AA] indicates that the Ethernet RAM
test reported a problem.
code represents a number that identifies the type of failure
that occurred.
description represents additional information that describes
the failure. Some additional information statements for the
Ethernet RAM test list the address and mismatched values
that caused a read or write error.
The adrs parameter lists the address where the error
occurred.
The rd parameter lists the actual value that the test
read.
The xpct parameter lists the expected value for the
address where the error occurred.

Ethernet Controllers 7–19

Table 7-10 lists the error codes and descriptions found in
Ethernet RAM test error messages.
Table 7-10. Ethernet RAM Test Error Codes and Descriptions
Error Code and Description

Meaning

(1: wrt RAM err)
(2: adrs=x, rd=y, xpct=z)
(3: adrs=x, rd=x, xpct=x)

Write operation to Ethernet RAM failed.
Word that was read did not equal 55555555.
Read miscompare occurred on the second
pass.

Registers Test
The registers test performs a read and write operation on the
Ethernet registers. To run the registers test, type t slot/regs,
where slot represents the slot number of the Ethernet controller
you want to test, and press Return.
Registers test error messages

Registers test error messages have the form
?TFL: slot/regs [PAD-AA] (code: information).
?TFL: slot/regs [PAD-AA] indicates that the registers test
reported a problem.
code represents some number that identifies the type of
failure that occurred.
description represents additional information that describes
the failure.
The CSR[n] parameter, where n represents the number
of a specific CSR register, indicates the actual value in
the CSR register.
The xpctd parameter indicates the expected value for
the same CSR register.
Table 7-11 lists the error codes and descriptions found in
registers test error messages.

7–20 Ethernet Controllers

Table 7-11. Registers Test Error Codes and Descriptions
Error Code and Description

Meaning

(1: CSR[n]=x - xpctd 0 )

Write and read operation to Ethernet
CSR[n] failed.
Reading and writing FFFE with CSR [1]
failed.
Reading and writing 00FF with CSR1
failed.
Bit leak from CSR2 to CSR1 occurred.

(3: CSR[1]=x - xpctd FFFE )
(4: CSR[2]=x - xpctd 00FF)
(5: CSR[1]=x - bit lk frm
CSR[1] )
(6: CSR[2]= x - bit lk frm
CSR[1] )
(7: immediate write/read
flr)

Bit leak from CSR1 to CSR2 occurred.
Immediate write and read test failed.

Ethernet Controllers 7–21

Part III
SCSI Controllers

8
SCSI Controllers
This chapter discusses the following about SCSI controllers:
SCSI option module hardware
Troubleshooting procedures
Individual SCSI controller tests

SCSI Controllers 8–1

SCSI Controller Hardware
The SCSI controllers link the system module and the system
hard disk, tape, and optical compact disc drives. Each SCSI
controller can support up to seven external drives, which
connect to the SCSI controller through a cable that attaches to
the back of the system unit.
Each base system has one SCSI controller on the system
module and supports additional SCSI controller option modules.
Figure 8-1 shows a SCSI controller option module and its
connectors.

8–2 SCSI Controllers

SCSI connector

Front view

Back view
SCSI expansion
slot connector
WSE2M029

Figure 8-1. SCSI controller option module

SCSI Controllers 8–3

Troubleshooting a SCSI Controller
If the cntl or sram test reports an error, replace the faulty SCSI
controller.
If the faulty SCSI controller is on the system module,
replace the system module. Refer to the maintnenance
guide for the system that has the faulty SCSI controller for
directions.
If the faulty SCSI controller is an option module, replace
the option module. Refer to ‘‘How to Remove and Install an
Option Module’’ in Chapter 1 for directions.
If the sdiag test reports an error, the problem is in the SCSI
controller or a drive connected to the SCSI controller. Refer to
Chapter 9 to troubleshoot the drive.
To check a SCSI controller and its drives thoroughly, use the
SCSI test script. Type sh slot/pst-t, where you replace slot with
the slot number of the SCSI controller for the drive you want to
test. Then press Return. The SCSI test script then checks the
SCSI controller and each drive on the bus.
For detailed information about a particular SCSI controller test,
see the individual SCSI tests described later in this chapter.

8–4 SCSI Controllers

Individual SCSI Controller and Drive Tests
The following entries explain commands and error messages for
SCSI controller and SCSI drive tests.
Table 8-1 lists the name and command for each individual SCSI
test.
Table 8-1. Individual SCSI Tests
Test Name

Test Command1

SCSI controller test
SCSI RAM test
SCSI send diagnostics test
SCSI target test

slot/cntl
slot/sram [w] [p pattern] [l number]
slot/sdiag SCSI_ID [d] [u] [s]
slot/target device [w] [l loops]

1 The slot variable represents the slot number of the failed controller or module.

SCSI Controllers 8–5

SCSI Controller Test
The SCSI controller test checks SCSI controller operation.
To run the SCSI controller test, type t slot/cntl, where slot
represents the slot number of the SCSI controller you want to
test, and press Return.
SCSI controller test error messages

SCSI controller test error messages have the form
?(TFL: | STX:) slot/cntl (description) PMAZ-AA
The leftmost parameter indicates the type of error that
occurred.
?TFL indicates that the test failed.
?STX indicates that the test command was invalid.
slot/cntl indicates that the SCSI controller test reported the
error. slot represents the slot number of the SCSI controller
that reported the error.
description represents additional information that describes
the failure.
PMAZ-AA is the code name for the SCSI controller
hardware.
Table 8-2 lists error descriptions found in SCSI controller test
error messages.
Table 8-2. SCSI Controller Error Decriptions
Error Description

Meaning

(rd cnfg)

Values written to and read from configuration register did
not match.
First in, first out (FIFO) load and FIFO flags did not
match.
Write and read operation on TCL register reported a
mismatch.
Command was illegal and did not generate an interrupt.
Controller cannot clear internal interrupt register.
Test command was invalid.

(fifo flg)
(cnt xfer)
(illg cmd)
(int reg)
(invl arg)

8–6 SCSI Controllers

SCSI RAM Test
The SCSI RAM test performs a read and write operation on the
SCSI RAM. To run the SCSI RAM test, type t slot/sram [w] [p
pattern] [l number] and press Return.
When you type the SCSI RAM test command,
Replace slot with the slot number of the SCSI controller
you want to test.
Specify the optional w parameter to run a walking-bit test.
Specify the optional p parameter to use a specific pattern in
the test. Replace pattern with the pattern you want to use.
Specify the optional l parameter to have the test loop.
Replace number with the number of times you want the
test to loop.
SCSI RAM test error messages

SCSI RAM test error messages have the form
?(TFL: | STX:) slot/cntl (description) PMAZ-AA
The leftmost parameter indicates the type of error that
occurred.
?TFL indicates that the SCSI RAM test failed.
?STX indicates that the SCSI RAM test command was
invalid.
slot/sram indicates that the SCSI RAM test reported the
error. slot represents the slot number of the SCSI controller
that reported the error.
description represents additional information that describes
the failure.
PMAZ-AA is the code name for the SCSI controller.
Table 8-3 describes error descriptions found in SCSI RAM test
error messages.

SCSI Controllers 8–7

Table 8-3. SCSI RAM Test Error Descriptions
Error Description

Meaning

(inval arg)
(exp=xx act=yy adr=zz
number)

Test command syntax was not valid.
Read and write operation reported a
mismatch.
The exp value is the expected value in
the RAM.
The act value is the actual value in the
RAM.
The adr value is the address where the
mismatch occurred.
number represents the slot number of
the SCSI controller that reported the
error.

8–8 SCSI Controllers

SCSI Send Diagnostics Test
The SCSI send diagnostics test runs the self-test for an
individual SCSI device. You can specify whether the test runs
with the SCSI device and unit offline bits set.
To run the SCSI send diagnostics test, type
t slot/sdiag scsi_id [d] [u] [s] and press Return.
When you type the SCSI send diagnostics command,
Replace slot with the slot number of the SCSI controller for
the device you want to test.
Replace scsi_id with the SCSI ID of the device you want to
test.
Include the optional d parameter to allow the test to alter
internal drive parameters.
Include the optional u parameter to run to include a write
operation in the send diagnostics test.
Include the optional s parameter to suppress the error
message display.
Caution:: On some devices, you can ruin existing data if you run

the send diagnostics test with a device or unit off line. Specify only
the default power-up self-test unless you are sure how the device
responds.
SCSI send diagnostics test error messages

SCSI send diagnostic test error messages have the form
?(TFL: | STX:) slot/sdiag TID=scsi_id FRU=part (description)
PMAZ-AA
The leftmost parameter indicates the type of error that
occurred.
?TFL slot/sdiag indicates that the SCSI send
diagnostics test reported an error. slot represents
the slot number of the SCSI controller that reported the
error.
?STX slot/sdiag indicates that the SCSI send
diagnostics test command was invalid. slot represents
the slot number of the SCSI controller that attempted
the invalid command.
SCSI Controllers 8–9

The TID value is the SCSI ID of the device that reported
the error.
The FRU value, if the failed drive is an RZ56 or RZ57 drive,
indicates which part in the drive failed. The FRU value has
no meaning for drives other than RZ56 or RZ57 hard disk
drives.
E0 indicates that the printed circuit board is faulty.
D0 indicates that the head and disk assembly is faulty.
00 indicates that either the printed circuit board or the
head and disk assembly is faulty.
description represents additional information that describes
the failure.
PMAZ-AA is an identification number for the SCSI
controller hardware.
Table 8-4 lists error descriptions found in SCSI send diagnostics
test error messages.
Table 8-4. SCSI Send Diagnostics Test Error Descriptions
Error Description

Meaning

(sdiag)
(dev ol)
(inval arg)
(cID = tID)
(cmp)
(dev type)
(ro dev)

The device failed the send diagnostics test.
Test could not bring the unit on line.
Test command was invalid.
Device ID was the same as the controller ID.
Read and write values did not match.
Test does not work on the specified device.
Test cannot perform write operation. Device is a read-only
device.
Command entered from the keyboard aborted the test.

(tst nocomp)

8–10 SCSI Controllers

SCSI Target Test
The SCSI target test performs a read test on a specific SCSI
device. If you include the optional write parameter, the test
also performs a write test. To run the SCSI target test, type
t slot/target scsi_id [w] [l loops] and press Return.
When you type the SCSI target test command,
Replace slot with the slot number of the SCSI controller for
the device you want to test.
Replace the scsi_id parameter with the SCSI ID of the
device you want to test.
Specify the optional w parameter to include a write
operation in the SCSI target test.
Specify the optional l parameter to have the test repeat a
specified number of times. If you include the l parameter,
replace loops with the number of times you want the test to
repeat.
SCSI target test error messages

SCSI target test error messages have the form
?(TFL: | STX:) slot/target TID=scsi_id (description) PMAZ-XX
The leftmost parameter indicates the type of error that
occurred.
?TFL slot/target indicates that the SCSI target test
reported an error. slot represents the slot number of
the SCSI controller that reported the error.
?STX slot/target indicates that the SCSI target test
command was invalid. slot represents the slot number
of the SCSI controller that reported the invalid
command.
The TID value is the SCSI ID of the device that reported
the error.
description represents additional information that describes
the failure.
PMAZ-XX is the hardware identification number for the
SCSI controller. XX represents the SCSI hardware revision
number.

SCSI Controllers 8–11

Table 8-5 lists error descriptions found in SCSI target test error
messages.
Table 8-5. SCSI Target Test Error Description
Error Description

Meaning

(dev ol)
(inval arg)
(cID = tID)
(cmp)
(dev type)
(ro dev)

Test could not bring the device online.
Test command was invalid.
Device ID was the same as the controller ID.
Read and write values did not match.
Test does not work on the specified device.
Test cannot perform write operation. Device is a read-only
device.
Command entered from the keyboard aborted the test.

(tst nocomp)

8–12 SCSI Controllers

Part IV
Drives

9
System Drives
This chapter describes the hard disk, tape, and optical compact
disc drives supported by TURBOchannel option modules. It
explains
Drive hardware
How to troubleshoot drive problems
How to remove and install external drives

System Drives 9–1

Drive Hardware
SCSI controllers can support drives that reside in several
different expansion boxes. Following are some typical
expansion boxes with drives that SCSI controllers support.
These expansion boxes are shown in Figures 9-1 through 9-4.
The BA42 expansion box, which holds one or two drives
The side of the box that has a removable insert in the
cover supports one removable-media drive or one hard
disk drive.
The side of the box that has no removable insert in the
cover supports one hard disk drive.
For information about the specific drives that the BA42
expansion box supports, refer to the BA42 Expansion Box
Maintenance Guide.
The RRD40 box, which holds one RRD40 optical compact
disc drive. The RRD40 optical compact disc drive has a
capacity of 600 Mbytes.
The BA40 box, which holds one TK50Z tape drive. The
TK50Z tape dirve has a capacity of 90 Mbytes.
The TLZ04 box, which holds one TLZ04 tape drive. The
TLZ04 tape drive has a capacity of 1.2 Gbytes.
These boxes connect in a chain that attaches to a SCSI
connector on the back of the system unit. The unused connector
on the last drive in each chain requires a terminator.
Some base systems also have internal drives. For information
about internal drives on a base system, refer to the
maintenance guide for the base system about which you
want information.

9–2 System Drives

LED

SCSI ID switches

On/off switch
In and out cable
connectors
WSE2M036

Figure 9-1. BA42 expansion box

System Drives 9–3

SCSI ID switches

On/off switch

In and out
cable connectors

LEDs
WSE2M032

Figure 9-2. RRD40 box

9–4 System Drives

SCSI ID switches

In and out cable
connectors

On/off switch

WSE2M033

Figure 9-3. BA40 expansion box

System Drives 9–5

TLZ04 tape drive
SCSI ID switches
set to 5

P421

OPTION

P421

SCSI connectors
AC LIN

SCSI ID switches

On/off switch
WSE2M052

Figure 9-4. TLZ04 box

9–6 System Drives

Troubleshooting the Drives
Troubleshoot a faulty drive as follows:
1.

Ensure the following:
A SCSI chain terminator is on the last drive in the
chain.
All SCSI cables are connected properly. Replace any
cables that appear defective.
Any tapes or compact discs are inserted correctly.
Correctly insert any that are upside down.
Each drive has a different SCSI ID and no drive has its
SCSI ID switch set to 7.
If the problem persists, run the SCSI test script. Type
slot/pst-t, where you replace slot with the slot number of
the SCSI controller you want to test. Then press Return.
If the cntl or sram test reports an error, replace the failed
SCSI controller.
If the failed SCSI controller is on the system module,
replace the system module. Refer to the maintnenance
guide for the base system that you are troubleshooting
for directions.
If the failed SCSI controller is on an option module,
replace the failed option module. Refer to ‘‘To Remove
and Install an Option Module’’ in Chapter 1 for
directions.
If the SCSI test returns the error message slot/sdiag, where
slot represents the slot number of the SCSI controller
you are testing, a drive is faulty. Refer to ‘‘SCSI Send
Diagnostics Test’’ later in this chapter to troubleshoot.

System Drives 9–7

SCSI Send Diagnostics Test
The SCSI send diagnostics test runs the self-test for an
individual drive. You can specify whether to include a read
operation and whether to allow the test to alter the internal
parameters of the drive.
To run the SCSI send diagnostics test, type
t slot/sdiag device [d] [u] [s] and press Return.
When you type the SCSI send diagnostics command,
Replace slot with the slot number of the SCSI controller for
the device you want to test.
Replace device with the SCSI ID of the device you want to
test.
Include the optional d parameter to allow the test to alter
certain internal drive paramters.
For drives discussed in this guide, include the optional u
parameter to perform a write operation during the selftest. Drives other than those discussed in this guide do not
necessarily perform a write operation if you include the u
parameter.
Include the optional s parameter to suppress the error
message display.
Caution: On some devices, you can ruin existing data if you include

the d or u parameters. Do not specify d or u unless you are sure how
the device responds.
Send diagnostics test error messages

Send diagnostics test error messages have the form
?TFL: slot/sdiag TID=scsi_id FRU=item description PMAZ-AA.
?TFL: slot/sdiag indicates that the send diagnostics test
reported an error. slot represents the slot number of the
SCSI controller for the SCSI bus that reported the error.
TID indicates the SCSI ID of the drive that reported the
error.

9–8 System Drives

FRU, for some types of drives, identifies the failed item in
the drive. For RZ56 and RZ57 hard disk drive tests that
include a write operation, the FRU parameter indicates the
following:
E0 indicates that the printed circuit board is faulty.
D0 indicates that the head and disk assembly is faulty.
00 indicates that either the printed circuit board or the
head and disk assembly is faulty.
description represents an additional string that describes
the failure.
This sample send diagnostics test error message indicates that
the drive with SCSI ID 2 on the SCSI bus connected to slot
number 1 is faulty:
?TFL: 1/sdiag TID=2 FRU=00 (sdiag) PMAZ-AA

The FRU parameter is 00. If the drive is an RZ56 or RZ57 hard
disk drive, either the drive printed circuit board or the head
and disk assembly could be faulty. If the drive is other than an
RZ56 or RZ57 drive, the FRU parameter has no meaning.
The error description (sdiag) indicates that the sdiag command
reported an error.

System Drives 9–9

SCSI Target Test
The SCSI target test performs a read test on a specific SCSI
device. If you include the optional write parameter, the test
also performs a write test. To run the SCSI target test, type
t slot/target device [w] [l loops] and press Return.
When you type the SCSI target test command,
Replace slot with the slot number of the SCSI controller for
the SCSI bus you want to test.
Replace the device parameter with the SCSI ID of the
device you want to test.
Include the optional w parameter to include a write
operation in the SCSI target test.
Include the optional l parameter to have the test repeat a
specified number of times. If you include the l parameter,
replace loops with the number of times you want the test to
repeat.
If you specify a write operation in the target test, the prompt
wrt? (1/0) asks you to confirm that you want the test to
perform a write operation.
Specify 1 to include a write operation in the test.
Specify 0 to omit a write operation from the test.
Caution: Performing a write operation can ruin existing data on a

drive. Be sure to back up any data before you write to a drive.

For example, to run a read and write test 50 times on a hard
disk drive that has SCSI ID 2 and is on the SCSI bus connected
to slot number 5, type 5/target 2 w l 50 and press Return.

9–10 System Drives

SCSI target test error messages

SCSI target test error messages use the format
?TFL: slot/target TID=scsi_id description PMAZ-AA.
slot represents the slot number of the SCSI controller
connected to the SCSI bus.
TID indicates the SCSI ID of the device that reported the
error.
description represents additional information that describes
the failure.
PMAZ-AA is the product ID for the SCSI controller.

System Drives 9–11

Removing and Installing Drive Expansion Boxes
This section describes how to remove and install drive
expansion boxes. For an explanation of servicing hardware
inside the expansion boxes, refer to the service guide for the
particular drive you want to replace.
How to Remove a Drive Expansion Box
Figure 9-5 shows how to remove a drive expansion box.

System unit
SCSI cable

SCSI cable

Chain

connectors

terminator

0
PMAG-C

System unit
BA42
BA42

System unit

Expansion box

SCSI cable

SCSI cable
WSE2M039

Figure 9-5. Removing a drive expansion box

9–12 System Drives

1.
2.
3.

Turn off the system unit. Then turn off all drives in the
chain with which you are working.
Disconnect the SCSI cables connected to the expansion box
that holds the drive you want to remove.
If the expansion box is nearest the system unit, follow these
steps to remove the box:
a. Disconnect the SCSI cables attached to the expansion
box.
b. Remove the SCSI cable connected to the next box in the
chain.
c. If you do not install a new expansion box, connect the
SCSI cable on the back of the system unit to the next
expansion box in the chain.
If the expansion box is in the middle of the chain, follow
these steps to remove the box:
a. Disconnect both SCSI cables attached to the expansion
box. Disconnect the other end of one of these cables
and remove the cable.
b. Connect the free end of the remaining cable to the open
connector on the remaining expansion box.
If the drive is at the end of the chain, follow these steps to
remove the drive:
a. Remove the SCSI cable connected to the expansion box
you are removing. Open the latches holding the cable
connector and pull the cable away from the connector.
b. Remove the other end of the SCSI cable from the drive
connector to which it is attached.
c. Insert a SCSI chain terminator on the drive that is now
at the end of the chain. Close the latches on each side
of the drive connector.

System Drives 9–13

How to Install a Drive Expansion Box
1.

Before installation, perform a power-up self-test to make
sure the system is operating properly. Correct any problems
before you proceed.
Use the SCSI ID switches or jumpers for the drive to set the
drive SCSI ID. Always number drives from the beginning of
the chain, starting with drive 0.
To find an available SCSI ID, use the SCSI bus
configuration display. Refer to the maintnenance guide for
the base system onto which you are installing a drive for an
explanation of how to display the SCSI bus configuration.

4.
5.

To determine the SCSI ID switch and jumper settings for a
specific drive, refer to the maintenance guide for that drive.
Connect the SCSI cables to the drive. Push the cable end
onto the drive’s SCSI connector. Then close the latches.
Figure 9-6 shows how to install a drive.
Turn on the system unit. The system performs a power-up
self-test and checks its new configuration.
If the system reports an error, check all system connections
and repeat the test. If an error still occurs, install a disk
drive you know is operating properly. Then repeat the test.
If the error persists, the problem is probably somewhere
else in the system. Refer to the base system maintenance
guide to troubleshoot the base system.
After the system reports no problems, run the drive selftests described in the troubleshooting section of this chapter
to check the drive.

9–14 System Drives

System unit

Expansion box

SCSI cable

Chain

connectors

terminator

System unit
BA42
BA42

System unit

Expansion box

SCSI cable

SCSI cable
WSE2M043

Figure 9-6. Installing a drive

System Drives 9–15

For Further Information
For more information about commands related to drive
operation, refer to the explanation of SCSI controllers in
Chapter 8.
To troubleshoot SCSI controllers, refer to the SCSI
troubleshooting directions in Chapter 8.
For more detailed information about any drive, refer to the
service guide for the individual drive.

9–16 System Drives

Part V
Monitors

10
The Monitors
This chapter discusses monitors that TURBOchannel options
support. It describes
Which monitors each graphics option module supports
What to do if the monitor has no display
How to troubleshoot and correct simple monitor problems
How to display patterns that you use to adjust the monitor
The size, controls, and operating frequency of individual
monitors

The Monitors 10–1

Combining Monitors and TURBOchannel Graphics Modules
Each monitor requires specific graphics modules to display
graphics. See chapters 2 through 5 for information about the
various TURBOchannel graphics modules and the monitors
that can be combined with each.
For detailed information about monitors, refer to the section
later in this chapter that discusses the individual monitor in
which you are interested.

10–2 The Monitors

Troubleshooting the Monitor
If the monitor display is unclear, refer to Table 10-1 for
directions for adjusting the display.
If the monitor has no display at all, follow the steps in
Table 10-2 to troubleshoot the system.
Table 10-1. Correcting Simple Monitor Problems
Problem

Remedy

Display is too bright or too
dark.
Contrast is too high or too
low.
Image is distorted or wavy.

Rotate the brightness knob to increase or
decrease the brightness.
Rotate the contrast knob to adjust contrast.

Display colors are incorrect.

If the monitor has a degauss button, press
the degauss button for 10 seconds and
then release it. If this does not correct the
display, refer to the monitor service guide.
Make sure the video cable RGB connectors
are connected to the monitor correctly. If
the problem persists, replace the video
cable. To adjust the monitor color, refer
to ‘‘Displaying Patterns for Adjusting the
Monitor’’ later in this chapter for directions.

The Monitors 10–3

Table 10-2. Troubleshooting When the Monitor Has No Display
Problem

Remedy

The monitor power indicator
does not glow.

Make sure the monitor is turned on. Check
the monitor power supply and outlet. Refer
to the monitor service guide if the monitor
power indicator still does not glow.

The workstation power
supply LED does not glow.

Make sure the workstation power supply is
turned on. Check the workstation power
cord and outlet. If the power supply
LED still does not glow, troubleshoot the
system unit power supply. Refer to the
maintenance guide for the problem base
system for directions.

The video cable is not
correctly connected to the
monitor and system unit.

Make sure the cable connections are tight.

The system unit diagnostic
LEDs are not all off when the
power-up self-test is finished.

Refer to the maintenance guide for the base
system to troubleshoot.

A graphics module self-test
reports an error.

Refer to the chapter earlier in this guide
that discusses the type of graphics module
that reported the error to troubleshoot.

The monitor still has no
display.

Remove and replace the video cable.

After the video cable is
replaced, there is still no
display on the monitor.

The problem is probably in the monitor,
not the system unit. Refer to the monitor
service guide to troubleshoot the monitor.

10–4 The Monitors

Testing the Monitor Display
Use the monitor adjustment patterns described later in this
chapter to test the monitor display.
If these tests do not produce the correct monitor display, make
sure the video cable connectors are attached correctly.
Make sure that the connectors marked R, G, and B attach
to the corresponding R, G, and B connectors on the monitor.
Check the video cable connection to the back of the
system unit. Make sure the Digital logo on the video
cable connector faces up. If the Digital logo faces down,
disconnect the video cable from the back of the system unit
and reinstall the cable connector so the Digital logo faces
up.
If the problem persists, refer to the monitor service guide to
troubleshoot the monitor.

The Monitors 10–5

Displaying Patterns for Adjusting the Monitor
You can display a series of patterns for adjusting the monitor
display.
If your system has a monochrome frame-buffer graphics
module, see ‘‘Displaying Patterns for Adjusting a Monitor
Connected to a Monocrome Frame-Buffer Graphics Module’’
below.
If your system has a color frame-buffer graphics module,
see ‘‘Displaying Patterns for Adjusting a Monitor Connected
to a Color Frame-Buffer Graphics Module’’ below.
If your system has a 2D graphics accelerator or 3D graphics
module, see ‘‘Patterns for Adjusting a Monitor Connected
to a Two-Dimensional Graphics Accelerator or 3D Graphics
Module’’ below.
Displaying Patterns for Adjusting a Monitor Connected to a
Monochrome Frame-Buffer Graphics Module
If the system has a monochrome frame-buffer graphics module,
use the patterns test and font test to display patterns for
adjusting the monitor.
To display a series of patterns, run the patterns test. Type t
slot_number/ptrn 1, where you replace slot_number with the
color frame-buffer graphics module slot number, and press
Return. The first pattern remains on the screen. Each time
you press Return, the monitor displays the next pattern in the
series.
The patterns appear in this sequence:
Alternating black and white bars
Solid white display
Four gray patterns
To display the letters E and H, use the font test. Type
t slot_number/font [character] and press Return.
When you type this test command,
Replace slot_number with the slot number of the
monochrome frame-buffer graphics module.
10–6 The Monitors

Replace character with the value for the specific character
that you want to display.
Specify 37 to display a screen filled with the letter E.
Specify 40 to display a screen filled with the letter H.
Displaying Patterns for Adjusting a Monitor Connected to a
Color Frame-Buffer Graphics Module
If the system has a color frame-buffer graphics module, use the
patterns test, the font test, and the box test to display patterns
for adjusting the monitor.
To run the patterns test, type t slot_number/ptrn 1, where
you replace slot_number with the color frame-buffer graphics
module slot number, and press Return. Each pattern remains
on the screen until you press Return. Each time you press
Return, the monitor displays the next pattern in the series.
The patterns appear in this sequence:
Color bars pattern
Gray bars from light to dark pattern
Solid red display
Solid green display
Solid blue display
Solid blue-red display
Blue-red to blue-green display

The Monitors 10–7

Red-green to blue-green display
Red-green to red-blue display
Solid white display
To display the letters E and H, use the font test. Type
t slot_number/font [character] and press Return.
When you type this test command,
Replace slot_number with the slot number of the color
frame-buffer graphics module.
Replace character with the value for the specific character
that you want to display.
Specify 37 to display a screen filled with the letter E.
Specify 40 to display a screen filled with the letter H.
To display a circle and crosshatch pattern, use the box test.
Type t slot_number/box, where you replace slot_number with
the slot number of the colr frame-buffer. Then press Return. A
circle and crosshatch pattern then appear on the monitor.

10–8 The Monitors

Displaying Patterns for Adjusting a Monitor Connected to
a Two-Dimensional Graphics Accelerator or 3D Graphics
Module
Run the patterns test to display adjustment patterns on a
monitor connected to a 2D graphics accelerator or 3D graphics
module.
To run the patterns test, type t slot_number/patrns [1] and
press Return.
When you type this command,
Replace slot_number with the 2D graphics acclerator or 3D
graphics module slot number.
Include the optional 1 parameter to have each pattern
remain on the monitor screen until you press the Return
key.
2D graphics acclerator and 3D graphics test pattterns appear in
this sequence:
Solid red display
Solid green display
Solid blue display
Solid white display
Four color bars display
Eight color bars display
Screen filled with the letter E
Screen filled with the letter H
Screen filled with a circle and crosshatch pattern

The Monitors 10–9

Individual Monitors
This section describes the size, controls, connectors, and
operating frequency of some of the common monitors.
VRT16 Monitor
The VRT16 is a 16-inch, 66 Hz color monitor. Figure 10-1 shows
the VRT16 monitor and its controls and video cable connectors.

10–10 The Monitors

Vertical static
convergence
(V-STAT) control

Horizontal static
convergence
(H-STAT) control
On/off switch
Vertical centering
(V-CENT) control

Power indicator light
Contrast control

Brightness control

Power connector
High-scan/low-scan switch
RGB connectors (video out)
RGB connectors (video in)
WS33O063

Figure 10-1. VRT16 monitor features

The Monitors 10–11

Table 10-3 lists the purpose of each control and connector.
Table 10-3. Controls and Connectors on the VRT16 Monitor
Item

Function

Power indicator light

Glows green when the monitor power is
receiving power.
Adjusts the contrast in the monitor
display.
Adjusts the brightness of the monitor
display.
Moves the picture upward or downward on
the screen.
Moves the red and blue horizontal lines
in the display in relation to the green
horizontal line in the display.
Moves the red and blue vertical lines in
the display in relation to the green vertical
line in the display.
Connects the video cable to the monitor.
Protects the monitor from electrical
damage.
Connects the power cord to the monitor.
Turns the monitor on and off.
The VRT16 monitor does not use the highscan/low-scan switch when connected to a
TURBOchannel graphics module.

Contrast control
Brightness control
Vertical centering (V-CENT)
Vertical static convergence
(V-STAT) control
Horizontal static convergence
(H-STAT) control
RGB signal cable connectors
Fuse
Power connector
On/off switch
High-scan/low-scan switch

10–12 The Monitors

VRT19 Monitor
The VRT19 is a 19-inch, 66 Hz color monitor. Figure 10-2 shows
the VRT19 monitor and its controls and video cable connectors.
Figure 10-2 shows the VRT19 monitor and its controls and
video cable connectors.

The Monitors 10–13

Vertical static
convergence
(V-STAT) control
Horizontal static
convergence
(H-STAT) control

Vertical centering
(V-CENT) control
On/off switch
Brightness control

Power indicator light
Contrast control

Power connector

RGB connectors
(video out)
RGB connectors
(video in)
WSE2O045

Figure 10-2. VRT19 monitor features

10–14 The Monitors

High-scan/low-scan switch

Table 10-4 lists the purpose of each control and connector.
Table 10-4. Controls and Connectors on the VRT19 Monitor
Item

Function

Power indicator light

The Monitors 10–15

VRM17 monitor
The VRM17 monitor is a 17-inch, 72-Hz monochrome multisync
monitor. Figure 10-3 shows the VRM17 monitor and its controls
and video cable connectors.

Brightness

Contrast
Power indicator

On/off switch

High/low
scan switch
Brightness
Power
connector

Contrast

Video signal
connector

WSETU016

Figure 10-3. VRM17 monitor features

10–16 The Monitors

Table 10-5 lists the purpose of each control and connector.
Table 10-5. Controls and Connectors on the VRM17 Monitor
Item

Function

Power indicator light

Glows green when the monitor is receiving
power.
Adjusts the contrast in the monitor
display.
Adjusts the brightness of the monttor
display.
Selects high scan or low scan.
Connects the video cable to the monitor.
Connects the power cord to the monitor.
Turns the monitor on and off.

Contrast control
Brightness control
High scan/low scan switch
Video cable connector
Power connector
On/off switch

The Monitors 10–17

VR262 Monitor
The VR262 is a 19-inch, 60 Hz monochrome monitor.
Figure 10-4 shows the VR262 monitor and its controls and
video cable connector.

Brightness control

Power indicator light
Contrast control

Video cable
connector

Video cable

On/off switch
Fuse panel
Power connector

DEPG006

Figure 10-4. VR262 monitor features

10–18 The Monitors

Table 10-6 lists the purpose of each control and connector.
Table 10-6. Controls and Connectors on the VR262 Monitor
Item

Function

Power indicator light

Glows green when the monitor is receiving
power.
Adjusts the intensity of the display on the
screen.
Adjusts the brightness of the background
on the screen.
Connects the video cable to the monitor.
Contains a fuse that protects the monitor
from electrical damage.
Connects the power cord to the monitor.
Turns the monitor on and off.

Contrast control
Brightness control
Video cable connector
Fuse panel
Power connector
On/off switch

The Monitors 10–19

VR297 Monitor
The VR297 is a 16-inch, 60 Hz color monitor. Figure 10-5 shows
the VR297 monitor and its controls and video cable connectors.

Vertical static
convergence
(V-STAT) control

Horizontal static
convergence
(H-STAT) control

Vertical centering
(V-CENT) control
Contrast control

On/off switch

Power indicator light

RGB signal
cable connectors

Fuse
R

Power connector

WSE2O006

Figure 10-5. VR297 monitor features

10–20 The Monitors

Table 10-7 lists the purpose of each control and connector.
Table 10-7. Controls and Connectors on the VR297 Monitor
Item

Function

Power indicator light

Contrast control
Brightness control
Video cable connector
Fuse panel
Power connector
On/off switch

The Monitors 10–21

VR299 Monitor
The VR299 is a 19-inch, 60 Hz color monitor. Figure 10-6 shows
the VR299 monitor and its controls and video cable connector.

Degauss button

Contrast control

Brightness control

Power indicator light

On/off switch

Monitor-to-system-unit
cable connector

G
B

WSE2M041

Figure 10-6. VR299 monitor features

10–22 The Monitors

Table 10-8 lists the purpose of each control and connector.
Table 10-8. Controls and Connectors on the VR299 Monitor
Item

Function

Power indicator light

Glows green when the monitor is receiving
power.
Adjusts the contrast in the monitor
display.
Adjusts the brightness in the monitor
display.
Adjusts the picture position upward or
downward on the screen.
Adjusts the picture position sideways on
the screen.
Clears color distortion caused by magnetic
interference.
Connect the video cable to the monitor.
Connects the power cord to the monitor.
Turns the monitor on and off.

Contrast control
Brightness control
Vertical centering control
Horizontal centering control
Degauss button
RGB signal cable connectors
Power connector
On/off switch

The Monitors 10–23

VR319 Monitor
The VR319 is a 19-inch, 72 Hz monochrome monitor.
Figure 10-7 shows the VR319 monitor and its controls and
video cable connectors.

On/off switch

Contrast control

Brightness control

Horizontal centering (H-CENT) control

Vertical centering (V-CENT) control

Rotational (ROT) control

Cable connector
Power connector
WS33O079

Figure 10-7. VR319 monitor features

Table 10-9 lists the purpose of each control and connector.

10–24 The Monitors

Table 10-9. Controls and Connectors on the VR319 Monitor
Item

Function

Power indicator light

Glows green when the monitor is receiving
power.
Adjusts the intensity of the display on the
screen.
Adjusts the brightness of the background
on the screen.
Moves the picture upward or downward on
the screen.
Moves the picture sideways on the screen.

Contrast control
Brightness control
Vertical centering (V-CENT)
Horizontal centering (H-CENT)
control
Rotational (ROT) control
Video cable connector
Power connector
On/off switch

Rotates the picture around the center of
the screen.
Connects the video cable to the monitor.
Connects the power cord to the monitor.
Turns the monitor on and off.

The Monitors 10–25

VR320 Monitor
The VR320 is a 19-inch color multisync monitor that can
operate at 66-Hz and 72-Hz. Figure 10-8 shows the VR320
monitor and its controls and video cable connector.
The 66-Hz VR320 is called the VR320-CA
The 72-Hz VR320 is called the VR320-DA

On/off indicator light

Contrast
Brightness
Degauss

Vertical centering (V-CENT) control

Horizontal centering (H-CENT) control

Red signal connector
Green signal connector
Blue signal connector
Power connector

WSETU017

Figure 10-8. VR320 monitor features

10–26 The Monitors

Table 10-10 lists the purpose of each control and connector.
Table 10-10. Controls and Connectors on the VR320 Monitor
Item

Function

Power indicator light

Contrast control
Brightness control
Vertical centering control
Horizontal centering control
Degauss button
RGB signal cable connectors
Power connector
On/off switch

The Monitors 10–27

A
Recommended Spares List
Tables A-1 through A-6 in this appendix contain the part
numbers for TURBOchannel option modules, drives, monitors,
loopback connectors, plugs, test media, cords, cables,
connectors, and related documentation.
Table A-1. TURBOchannel Option Modules
Option Module

Part Number

SCSI controller option module
ThickWire Ethernet option module
Color frame-buffer graphics module
2D graphics accelerator module
Low 3D graphics module
Mid 3D graphics module
High three-dimensional graphics module
8-plane to 24-plane upgrade for PMAG-DA/DB
VSIMM module
16-bit z-buffer module
8-bit z-buffer module

54-19876-01
54-19874-01
54-19815-01
54-20314-01
54-20185-01
54-20185-02
54-20114-AA
PMAG-GB
54-20116-AA
54-20352-AA
54-20410-AA

Recommended Spares List A–1

Table A-2. Basic Components
Item

Order Number

VR262, 19-inch monochrome monitor, 120 volts
VR262, 19-inch monochrome monitor, 240 volts
VR297, 16-inch color monitor, 120 volts
VR297, 16-inch color monitor, 240 volts, Northern
Hemisphere
VR297, 16-inch color monitor, 240 volts, Southern
Hemisphere
VR299, 19-inch color monitor, 120 volts
VR299, 19-inch color monitor, 240 volts, Northern
Hemisphere
VR299, 19-inch color monitor, 240 volts, Southern
Hemisphere
VRT19, 19-inch color monitor, 120 volts
VRT19, 19-inch color monitor, 240 volts, Northern
Hemisphere
VRT19, 19-inch color monitor, 240 volts, Southern
Hemisphere
RZ55 hard disk drive, 332 Mbytes
- RZ55 hard disk drive PCB
RZ56 hard disk drive, 665 Mbytes
- RZ56 hard disk drive HDA and frame assembly
- RZ56 hard disk drive PCB
RZ57 hard disk drive, 1.2 Gbytes
- RZ57 hard disk drive HDA and frame assembly
- RZ57 hard disk drive PCB
RRD40 optical compact disc drive, 600 Mbytes
TK50Z tape drive, 95 Mbytes, 120 volts
TK50Z tape drive, 95 Mbytes, 240 volts
TLZ04 tape drive, 1.2 Gbytes, 120 volts

VR262-AA
VR262-A3
VR297-DA
VR297-D3

A–2 Recommended Spares List

VR297-D4
VR299-DA
VR299-D3
VR299-D4
VRT19-DA
VRT19-D3
VRT19-D4
RZ55-E
29-27347-01
RZ56-E
29-27890-01
29-27889-01
RZ57-E
29-28158-01
29-28159-01
RRD40-FA
TK50Z-GA
TK50Z-G3
TLZ04-DA

Table A-3. Cords, Cables, and Connectors
Item

Part Number

Order Number

Monitor-to-system-unit power cord (U.S.)
System unit or expansion box power cord
Expansion-box-to-expansion-box cable
System-unit to expansion-box cable
ThickWire cable
Video cable, color, for use with color framebuffer graphics module
Video cable, color, for use with 2D graphics
accelerator and 3D graphics modules
Video cable, monochrome

17-00442-26
17-00606-10
17-01351-04
17-02641-02
17-01321-01
17-02720-01

—
BN19P-K
BC19J-1E
BC09D-06
BNE4C-02
—

17-02906-01

—

17-02878-01

—

Table A-4. Loopback Connectors, Plugs, Test Media, and Miscellaneous
Items
Item

Part Number

ThickWire loopback connector
SCSI chain terminator
RRD40 test disc
TLZ04 tape drive 1.2 Gbyte data cartridge
TLZ04 tape drive data cartridges, box of five
TLZ04 tape drive cleaning cartridge

12-22196-01
12-30552-01
30-23507-03
TLZ04-CA
TLZ04-CB
TLZ04-HA

Recommended Spares List A–3

Table A-5. Software Documentation
Item

Order Number

ULTRIX Media and Doc-TK50
ULTRIX Guide to the Error Logger
Technical Summary for RISC Processors
Documentation Overview for RISC Processors

QA-VV1AA-H5
AE-ME95B-TE
AA-MM35A-TE
AA-MM05A-TE

Table A-6. Hardware Documentation
Item

Order Number

DECstation 5000 User Documentation Kit
DECstation 5000 Model 200 Installation Guide
DECstation 5000 Model 200 Operator’s Guide
DECstation 5000 Model 200 Workstation Reference
Card
DECstation 5000 Model 200 Maintenance Guide
DECstation 5000 Model 200 Field Service Pocket
Guide
Components and Add-Ons
The RZ55 Disk Drive Service Manual
The RZ56 Disk Drive Subsystem Service Manual
The RZ57 Disk Drive Subsystem Service Manual
The RRD40 Owner’s Manual
The TLZ04 Cassette Tape Drive Owner’s Manual
Installing and Using the LN03
LN03 PLUS User Guide
ScriptPrinter Installation Guide
ScriptPrinter Operator Guide
LA100 Letterwriter User Documentation Kit
Installing and Using the LA75 Companion Printer
Installing and Using the LJ250/252 Companion
Color Printer
TK50Z Tape Drive Subsystem Owner’s Manual
TK50Z User’s Guide
TK50Z Technical Manual

EK-364AA-DK
EK-365AA-IN
EK-366AA-OP
EK-367AA-IC

A–4 Recommended Spares List

EK-370AA-MG
EK-371AA-PG

EK-RZ55D-SV
EK-RZ56D-SV
EK-RZ57D-SV
EK-RRD40-OM
EK-TLZ04-OM
EK-0LN03-UG
EK-LN03S-UG
EK-LN03R-UG
EK-LN03R-OG
EK-LW100-UG
EK-0LA75-UG
EK-LJ250-DK
EK-LEP05-OM
EK-OTK50-UG
EK-OTK50-TM