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Document:	VAXft Systems Configuration Guide
Order Number:	EK-VXFT1-PG
Revision:	002
Pages:	56
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OCR Text

VAXft Systems
Configuration Guide
EK–VXFTB–PG–002

September 1991
This document describes how to configure VAXft Systems hardware.

Revision/Update Information:

This manual supersedes the VAXft 3000
Guide to Fault Tolerant Systems,
EK–VXFTA–PG–001.

Operating System and Version: VMS Version 5.4 and higher for
Model 310; VMS Version 5.4-3 for
Models 110, 410, 610, and 612
Software Version:

VAXft System Services Version 1.2

VMS Volume Shadowing:

Phase II

Hardware Version:

VAXft Systems

Digital Equipment Corporation
Maynard, Massachusetts

First Printing, May 1990
Revised, September 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.
Any 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. No responsibility is assumed for the use or
reliability of software or equipment that is not supplied by Digital Equipment Corporation or its
affiliated companies.
Restricted Rights: Use, duplication, or disclosure by the U.S. Government is subject to
restrictions as set forth in subparagraph (c)(1)(ii) of the Rights in Technical Data and Computer
Software clause at DFARS 252.227–7013.
© Digital Equipment Corporation 1991.
All Rights Reserved.
Printed in U.S.A.
The Reader’s Comments form at the end of the hardcopy version of this document requests the
user’s critical evaluation in preparing future documentation.
The following are trademarks of Digital Equipment Corporation: DEC, DELNI, DECserver,
DECsystem, DSSI, MicroVAX, Packnet, ThinWire, TK, VAX, VAX DOCUMENT, VAX-11/780,
VAXcluster, VAXft, VAXsimPLUS, VAX Volume Shadowing, VMS, VT420, and the DIGITAL logo.
The following is a third-party trademark: IBM is a registered trademark of International
Business Machines Corporation.
This document is available in printed and online versions.

This document was prepared with VAX DOCUMENT, Version 1.2.

Navigational Map for the VAXft Systems Documentation

Overview
Information
(VAXft Systems)

Hardware
Information
(VAXft Systems)

Operating System
(VMS)

Software
Information
(VAXft System Services)

Customer Letter

Site Prep and
Installation Guide

VMS Upgrade and
Installation Manual

Using Factory−Installed Software
with VAXft Systems

Owner’s Manual

VMS Upgrade and
Installation Supplement:
VAXft Systems

Installation
Guide

Software Product
Description

VAXft Systems
Configuration Guide

Mini−Reference
Guide

Release Notes

VAX Wide Area Network
Device Drivers

Manager’s
Guide

Release Notes
VMS Volume
Shadowing Manual
Reference
Manual

= Book

= Online

Online Help

= Tape
Error Message
Manual
= Bookreader

Master Index
MR−5492−RA

iii

Contents
Preface . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

1 Introduction
1.1
System Architecture . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
1.2
System Hardware . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
1.2.1
CPU Modules . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
1.2.2
Memory . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
1.2.3
Crosslink . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
1.2.4
System I/O Controller . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
1.2.4.1
Ethernet . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
1.2.4.2
DSSI . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
1.2.4.3
System Console . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
1.2.5
Synchronous Communications with the DEC WANcontroller
620 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
1.3
System Software . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
1.3.1
VMS Operating System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
1.3.2
VMS Volume Shadowing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
1.3.3
VAXft System Services . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
1.4
Power Subsystem . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
1.5
Environmental Monitor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

1–2
1–4
1–6
1–6
1–6
1–6
1–7
1–7
1–7
1–8
1–8
1–9
1–9
1–10
1–11
1–12

2 VAXft Systems Configurations and Options
2.1
2.2
2.3
2.4
2.5
2.6
2.7
2.8

Mass Storage Options . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
The VAXft Model 110 System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
VAXft Model 310/410 Base System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
VAXft Model 310/410 System with Storage Expansion . . . . . . . . .
VAXft Model 610 Base System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
VAXft Model 610 Systems with Storage Expansion . . . . . . . . . . .
VAXft Model 612 VAXcluster Base System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
VAXft Model 612 VAXcluster System with Storage Expansion . . .

2–2
2–4
2–5
2–7
2–10
2–12
2–17
2–17

iii

3 Communications
3.1
3.1.1
3.1.2
3.2

Ethernet Connections . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
DECserver Terminal Servers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Ethernet Communications Servers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
DEC WANcontroller 620 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

3–1
3–3
3–4
3–4

4 System Service and Warranty
4.1
4.2
4.2.1
4.2.2
4.3

Service and Repair Features . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
System Warranty . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Standard Warranty . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
List Warranty . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Digital Assisted Services Program . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

4–1
4–2
4–2
4–2
4–2

VAXft System Diagram . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Seven-Slot Backplane . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Five-Slot Backplane . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Most Common Causes of System Failure Due to
Environmental Conditions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Fixed Disks and Replacements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
VAXft Model 110 System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
VAXft Model 310/410 Base System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
VAXft Model 310/410 System with Storage Expansion . . . . .
VAXft Model 610 Base System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
VAXft Model 610 System with One Storage Expansion
Cabinet . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
VAXft Model 610 System with Two Storage Expansion
Cabinets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
VAXft Model 612 VAXcluster Base System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
VAXft Model 612 VAXcluster with Storage Expansion . . . . . .
System Connected to a Single Ethernet . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
System Connected to Dual Ethernet . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

1–3
1–5
1–5

Glossary
Index
Figures
1–1
1–2
1–3
1–4
2–1
2–2
2–3
2–4
2–5
2–6
2–7
2–8
2–9
3–1
3–2

1–12
2–3
2–5
2–6
2–8
2–11
2–13
2–14
2–18
2–20
3–2
3–3

3–3

Synchronous Communication Lines Using Y-Connectors . . . .

3–5

Common Options for the VAXft Systems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Options for the Model 110 System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Options for the Model 310/410 Base System . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Options for the Model 310/410 System with Storage
Expansion . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Options for the Model 610 Base System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Options for Model 610 System with One Storage Expansion
Cabinet . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Options for Model 610 System with Two Storage Expansion
Cabinets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Options for the Model 612 VAXcluster Base System . . . . . . .
Options for the Model 612 VAXcluster System with Storage
Expansion . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

2–1
2–4
2–6

Tables
2–1
2–2
2–3
2–4
2–5
2–6
2–7
2–8
2–9

2–7
2–10
2–12
2–16
2–17
2–22

Preface
This manual is a guide to configuring the members of the VAXft Systems
family of fault-tolerant systems.

Intended Audience
This guide is intended for Digital customers or potential customers who are
interested in VAXft fault-tolerant systems configurations.

Related Documentation
The Navigational Map on page iii shows all the documents that contain
information on the VAXft Systems.

Conventions
This document uses italics to indicate a new term described either in the text
or in the glossary. Italics also identify the title of a document.

1
Introduction
Digital Equipment Corporation offers a family of VAXft systems to satisfy your
fault-tolerant computing requirements. The systems vary in processing power
and amount of mass storage. Supported systems are:
•

VAXft Model 110 System

•

VAXft Model 310 or 410 Base System

•

VAXft Model 310 or 410 System with Storage Expansion

•

VAXft Model 610 Base System

•

VAXft Model 610 Systems with Storage Expansion

•

VAXft Model 612 Dual-Node VAXcluster Base System

•

VAXft Model 612 Dual-Node VAXcluster System with Storage Expansion

In designing VAXft fault-tolerant systems, Digital developed an architecture
that features the following innovations for fault-tolerant computing:
•

Fully redundant hardware
One of each type of element in the system is always available.

•

No single point of hardware failure
No failure of a single hardware element is capable of bringing down the
entire system.

•

No single point of repair
All repairs can be made without disrupting running applications.

•

Uninterruptible Power Supply (UPS)
Power outages of short duration, brownouts, and power fluctuations, which
are the most common environmental causes of computer failures, do not
affect VAXft systems.

Introduction 1–1

•

Self-checking checkers
These checkers ensure that system integrity is not compromised if a fault
occurs in the checking logic.

By combining these innovations with the highly successful VAX architecture,
Digital has extended the range of its VAX family of computers into
state-of-the-art fault-tolerant systems. Digital also supports its fault-tolerant
systems with an industry-leading service offering.
Digital’s strategy is to provide you with a fault-tolerant VAX computer system
that you can run without change in your application code and that is fully
compatible with existing VAX systems.
VAXft systems use the VMS operating system, VMS Volume Shadowing, and a
layered product, VAXft System Services, to support its hardware architecture.
VAXft systems will run any application or layered product designed to run
on the VMS operating system. In this way, Digital continues to protect your
investment in applications development.
Because VAXft systems are based on the popular VAX architecture, you can
mix conventional and fault-tolerant systems in your networked configurations.
Therefore, you only have to put a fault-tolerant system where it is needed and
can use conventional or high availability systems elsewhere. All VAX systems
present a common programming and operator interface.
Use a VAXft system in any of the following ways:
•

Standalone system

•

Front end system in a distributed application

•

Back end system in a distributed application

Digital’s VAX architecture is the most expandable in the industry. Digital
offers you conventional, high-availability, and fault-tolerant systems, all within
the same architecture. The VAXft family provides a seamless upgrade for your
critical applications in a networked environment that results in a high degree
of system reliability and availability.

1.1 System Architecture
Each VAXft system consists of two identical sets of components configured in
dual zones. Each zone is a complete computer system, fully capable of servicing
the application by itself. Figure 1–1 illustrates the basic system design and
shows some of the redundant features of VAXft systems.

1–2 Introduction

Figure 1–1 VAXft System Diagram
Modem

Modem

SCHOLAR

Remote

VT320

Tape
Drive

Local Console Terminals

Disk
or
Tape

Disk

VT320

Remote

Disk

1 2 3 4 5 6 7

D C M C
S P E O
S U MM
I
OM
E
R
T
Y
H
E
R
N
E
T

Crosslink Cables
Ethernet

Synch
Lines

Synch
Lines
MR-5523-AD

This dual zone design ensures that there is no single point of hardware failure,
and that a single fault or hardware failure in one zone does not cause system
failure. Separate power supplies for each zone (including separate power cords)
minimize system failure from loss of external power in a single zone.
Each zone in a VAXft system contains identical CPU and memory modules.
Both CPUs and memory in each zone execute the same instruction at the
same time. This type of operation is called lockstep. Because the zones are
peers and operate in this synchronous fashion, no delay is caused by a transfer
of operations from a failed CPU to the remaining CPU. Indeed, there is no

Introduction 1–3

transfer at all. With each zone running in lockstep, the remaining zone simply
continues to operate while the failed zone is halted waiting for repair.
To maximize the benefits of redundancy for fault tolerance, VAXft system
interconnects are also duplicated to eliminate any connectivity losses due to
cable failure. Crosslink cables connect both system zones and provide parallel
data paths between the zones.

1.2 System Hardware
There are seven module slots in each zone (five in the Model 110) for the
CPU, system I/O controller modules, memory modules, and communications
controller modules. They reside in the module slots and connect directly to
the backplane in each zone. Each zone has its own backplane to eliminate the
possibility of a single point of failure at this level. The modules are specifically
designed for simple maintenance and can be inserted or removed from the
front of the system cabinet. Figures 1–2 and 1–3 show the arrangement of the
system modules.
The minimum configuration of required logic modules in each zone of the VAXft
systems includes one CPU, one memory module, and one system I/O controller,
and those required modules must be placed as shown in Figures 1–2 and 1–3.
If an additional system I/O controller is needed, the first slot is used on
the seven-slot backplane and the fourth or fifth on the five-slot backplane.
Synchronous communication modules are not required, but are available if
applications require such modules. In Chapter 2, the maximum number of
memory, system I/O controller, and synchronous communication modules is
given for each system. If you select the maximum for one of these types of
modules, be aware that you will be limiting the number of other modules,
sometimes to the minimum number. For example, if you configure the
maximum number of synchronous communication controllers (four modules for
models with seven slots and two for the Model 110 with five slots), you will be
limited to one memory module and one system I/O controller.

1–4 Introduction

Figure 1–2 Seven-Slot Backplane
1 2 3 4 5 6 7

E C M
N P E
E U M
T
O
/
R
D
Y
S
S
I

1 2 3 4 5 6 7

E C M
N P E
E U M
T
O
/
R
D
Y
S
S
I

Crosslink Cables

MR-5525-AD

Figure 1–3 Five-Slot Backplane
1 2 3 4 5

1 2 3 4 5

E C M
N P E
E U M
T
O
/
R
D
Y
S
S
I

Crosslink Cables
MR-5526-AD

Introduction 1–5

1.2.1 CPU Modules
A VAXft system has two CPU modules, one in each zone, which run in lockstep.
If one CPU module fails during operation, the other CPU module continues to
provide service to the application.
Each system provides the following VUPs of processing power:
•

Model 110 System — 2.4 VUPs

•

Model 310 System — 3.8 VUPs

•

Models 410 and 610 System — 6.0 VUPs

•

Model 612 VAXcluster System — 12.0 VUPs

One VUP is equal to the processing power of the VAX-11/780 system.
Each CPU module also includes a system logic clock for synchronization
of the zones, a 1-kilobyte internal cache memory, and an external
cache memory, 32 kilobytes for the Model 310 and 128 kilobytes for the
Models 410, 610, and 612. The Model 110 has no external cache memory.

1.2.2 Memory
Each memory module for a VAXft system contains 32 megabytes of fully
checked memory on a single board. Each memory module features single-bit
correction, double-bit detection, address and function verification, and parity
checking. Up to four (three for the Model 110) memory modules can be
configured in each zone. The minimum system configuration has one memory
module in each zone. For lockstep operation, each system zone must be
configured with equal amounts of memory.

1.2.3 Crosslink
Crosslink cables provide the communications paths between the CPU modules
in each zone. Between the zones, the crosslink provides two types of paths,
serial and parallel. The serial path is used to establish initial communications
between the zones; the parallel path operates only after the clocks in each zone
have been synchronized.

1.2.4 System I/O Controller
System I/O controller modules contain Ethernet and DSSI ports for
asynchronous communications and mass storage. These modules also contain
the interface to the console ports.

1–6 Introduction

1.2.4.1 Ethernet
Ethernet connections are provided to connect a VAXft system to a Local Area
Network (LAN) or an Ethernet-based VAXcluster system. For redundant
Ethernet support, a single connection in each zone is made to a single
Ethernet. For redundant connections to dual or multiple Ethernets, up to
four system I/O controller modules can be configured in each zone.
Support for asynchronous communications devices, such as user terminals,
is provided through the use of Ethernet terminal servers. An Ethernet port
can be connected to a thick wire or ThinWire Ethernet. See the Networks and
Communications Buyer’s Guide, for more information.
Expanded synchronous communications are supported through Ethernet-based
communications line servers and gateways. Q-bus devices can be connected
through DEC Commserver products such as the DEC Commserver 100/150.
1.2.4.2 DSSI
The DSSI provides a data path between the VAXft system and the mass storage
devices. By having a DSSI in a system I/O controller module configured in each
zone, the VAXft system provides redundant access to the mass storage devices
in each zone. When the need for disk storage requires system expansion, the
DSSI provides the connections from the CPU to the disks in expansion cabinets
and allows the disks to be accessed by both zones.
The DSSI is also the interconnect for the dual-node VAXft Model 612
VAXcluster system. By providing connections between both nodes as well
as to the mass storage between the zones in both nodes, the DSSI gives the
Model 612 VAXcluster system the ability to provide the twice the processing
power and load sharing of two Model 610 systems.
1.2.4.3 System Console
The system I/O controller also contains the interface to the system console. To
support console operations, the system I/O controller modules are configured
redundantly, one in each zone, to enable four console ports. The ports support,
in each zone, one local console terminal and provide access to one remote
console terminal by modem, as shown in Figure 1–1. A minimum of two
console terminals is required with the system. The international model of the
VT240 with attached LA75 printer is recommended as the console terminal.
All four physical console lines operate as a single logical system console.
Output appears on all four console terminals, and input can be entered from
any console terminal.
The VAXft system console is a combination of hardware and software that
enables the system to boot itself and lets you perform routine system
maintenance.
Introduction 1–7

The console functions enable you to:
•

Issue console commands

•

Boot the system either automatically or interactively

•

Install the VMS operating system

•

Examine control and status registers and run diagnostic tests

•

View messages from the console program, diagnostics, and the VMS system

•

Provide remote dial-in/dial-out capability

•

Provide input to the operating system for the system manager or operator

During normal operation, only one console terminal is required for system
operations. Two console terminals are normally active during system repair.
One can be used to manage the system, while the other is used to manage
system repair. Remote console ports can be used for system access from remote
locations.

1.2.5 Synchronous Communications with the DEC WANcontroller 620
Synchronous communications for VAXft systems is provided by the DEC
Wide Area Network Controller 620 (DEC WANcontroller 620), which is a
two-line synchronous fault-tolerant communications controller option designed
specifically for VAXft systems.
The DEC WANcontroller 620 supports Digital-standard layered communications software for the DECnet-VAX, VAX Packetnet System Interface (PSI),
VAX 2780/3780 BISYNC Protocol Emulator, and DECnet/SNA products.
The two lines are independently managed and operated so different protocols
can run simultaneously. The DEC WANcontroller 620 is capable of line speeds
up to 64 kilobits per second.
The maximum DEC WANcontroller 620 modules that can be configured is
eight, four per zone, providing 16 synchronous nonredundant communication
lines. Configuring the modules redundantly enables a maximum of eight lines.

1.3 System Software
Many VAXft fault-tolerant features are managed by software. Therefore, the
VMS operating system software and layered products are integral components
of the fault-tolerant operation of VAXft systems.
All VAXft systems come with the following software:
•

VMS operating system software

1–8 Introduction

•

VAXft System Services software, which supports the system’s fault-tolerant
hardware features

•

VMS Volume Shadowing, which allows for redundancy of disk storage

•

DECnet-VAX software for the Ethernet connections

All systems include licenses for the required software. A DECnet-VAX
end-node license is provided with the base system, but if multiple Ethernet
support is necessary, the DECnet-VAX full-function upgrade is required. On all
VAXft systems except the Model 110 system, the VMS operating system with
VMS Volume Shadowing and the VAXft System Services Software is factory
installed on one of the required disks.

1.3.1 VMS Operating System
Support for VAXft systems fault tolerant operation is built into the VMS
operating system (Version 5.4 and later). Thus, the multitude of VMS
layered products and VMS applications can be run on VAXft systems without
modification or recompiling. In addition, in situations where operators are
already trained in VMS operations, little additional training is needed for
VAXft systems.

1.3.2 VMS Volume Shadowing
VMS Volume Shadowing is a significant component of the VAXft faulttolerant capability. It enables all disks, including the system disk, to be
shadowed within a single system or across multiple systems on the Ethernet.
VMS Volume Shadowing replicates data at the volume level and ensures that
the loss of a disk drive does not affect the ability of an application to run.
Shadowing means that two or three disks are grouped into a shadow set so
the same data is written to all disks in the set. Refer to the VMS Volume
Shadowing Manual for more information.
If one zone is down due to planned maintenance or repair, the mass storage
devices contained in that zone are unavailable to the operational zone. Shadow
set members in that zone must be updated when the zone is returned to
operation.
Volume shadowing is not required for all disks on VAXft systems. However,
volume shadowing enables the system to provide access to important data
whenever it is needed, so disks containing critical data should be shadowed.
There is no restriction on the number of allowable shadow sets. The maximum
number of members for a shadow set is three. Members of a shadow set should
reside on different DSSI buses and in separate cabinets to optimize data
accessibility and availability within the VAXft system.

Introduction 1–9

To determine which disks require shadowing, answer the following questions:
•

Is availability of data on the disk critical?
If so, this disk should be shadowed. For example, the system disk is critical
and needs to be shadowed, but data needed for an annual report may not
require shadowing if there is a consistent procedure for backing up report
data.

•

Is the data written to the disk critical?
Sometimes shadowing of a disk is necessary because the data is so critical
that it cannot be lost. For example, a disk that records transactions at an
automatic teller machine should be shadowed because the data must be
available immediately to adjust balances, and a copy must be retained for
reference at all times. In this case, a simple backup procedure would be
insufficient because data could be lost if the drive where it is recorded fails.
Shadowing of this disk would ensure that the data is available at all times
for immediate access or reference at a later date.

•

Must a disk be shadowed to adhere to legal or auditing
requirements?
Some businesses must adhere to corporate and government requirements
to protect data. Shadowing can be used to fulfill these requirements.

1.3.3 VAXft System Services
VAXft System Services runs in conjunction with the VMS operating system to
support the fault-tolerant features of VAXft systems.
Features of VAXft System Services software include support for the following
capabilities:
•

Automatic failover of hardware

•

Hardware fault isolation and recovery

•

Automatic dial-out notification of faults

•

Configuration management of I/O components

VAXft System Services software also provides DCL-level commands to start,
stop, and show zones.
VAXft System Services also provide tools and utilities you use to manage the
system.
The FTSS$CONTROL Utility allows you to define the dial-out telephone
numbers used by the autonotification feature. See Section 4.1, Service and
Repair Features, for more details on autonotification.

1–10 Introduction

The Failover Set Manager Utility enables you to manage members of the
failover sets of Ethernet adapters. The Failover Set Manager allows the
addition or removal of failover set members and displays member status.
See the VAXft System Services Reference Manual and VAXft System Services
Manager’s Guide for more details.

1.4 Power Subsystem
VAXft systems feature a universal AC power system that supports 120 VAC
requirements for the U.S. and 240 VAC requirements for the international
market. The power system provides the voltages required to operate all
internal components of the system, including the computer logic, memory,
disks, tape, and cooling fans. The system features separate power cables for
each cabinet, to enable connection to external power sources.
External power can be 120 VAC or 240 VAC on all models; 48 to 60 VDC
is available on the Model 410. See the VAXft Systems Site Preparation and
Installation Guide, for more details.
Loss of external power is the leading cause for environmentally induced system
failure. See Figure 1–4 for an illustration of typical outage causes leading to
system failure. VAXft systems can counteract this loss of external power by
switching to the UPS. The UPS allows for a controlled shutdown of the system
to eliminate loss of data. The integral UPS in each zone permits the system
to tolerate brownouts, or brief or full outages due to loss of external power
source, by supplying power to all internal components for up to 30 minutes in
each 24-hour period. The VAXft Model 110 system does not support an integral
UPS; an external UPS must be ordered if you require uninterruptible power.
If external power returns within 30 minutes, the system automatically switches
back to the external power source.
For critical applications that tolerate no downtime, an external generator
should be included in the installation for times when power may be lost for
longer than 30 minutes.
External devices such as console terminals, user terminals, modems, terminal
servers, as well as internal tape loaders are not powered by VAXft systems in
the event of a power outage. An external UPS used to support these devices is
available from Digital.

Introduction 1–11

Figure 1–4 Most Common Causes of System Failure Due to Environmental
Conditions

Flood

Quake

Loss of External
Power Source

Fire
Lightning
Other

MR−3994−RA

1.5 Environmental Monitor
VAXft Model 110, 310, and 410 systems are designed to operate in a normal
temperature-controlled office space, while VAXft Model 610 and 612 systems
are designed to operate in a computer room environment. Temperature
thresholds are 10°C and 40°C, or about 50°F and 104°F. If the environment
exceeds the system’s thresholds, a shutdown occurs automatically.
The system has an internal environmental monitor, called Power and Cooling
Monitor (PCM), in each zone to ensure that thresholds on the high end are
not exceeded. Fan speed is increased when room temperature rises above an
acceptable threshold. The PCM reports harmful temperature fluctuations to
the system, and the autonotification dialout procedure is initiated to notify the
System Manager or Digital Services.

1–12 Introduction

2
VAXft Systems Configurations and
Options
As described in Chapter 1, there is a variety of VAXft systems. The
configuration for each of these VAXft systems is described in detail in this
chapter.
The options for memory, mass storage, and buses are common to all the
systems. Table 2–1 gives each of the options and their capacities. The model
numbers for these options differ slightly depending on the VAXft model; refer
to the latest version of the VAX Systems DECsystems Systems and Options
Catalog for complete order numbers.
Table 2–1 Common Options for the VAXft Systems
Option

Description

TF70C

290-megabyte cartridge tape drive; optional on all models.

TF85C

2.6-gigabyte cartridge tape drive; optional on Models 610/612.

TF857

18.2-gigabyte tape loader for unattended backup; optional on
Models 610/612.

RF31/RF72
disks

All systems come with a minimum of two disks (except Model 110).
Disks can be fixed or removable. RF31 disks have a capacity of 381
megabytes, while RF72 disks have a capacity of 1 gigabyte.

MS520

ECC mirrored memory; all systems come with one memory module.

KFE52

System I/O controller module for connection to DSSI, Ethernet and
console; all systems come with at least one system I/O controller
module.

DSF32

DEC WAncontroller 620 two-line synchronous communication
controller; optional on all models.

VAXft Systems Configurations and Options 2–1

2.1 Mass Storage Options
Although a tape drive or tape loader is not required for any VAXft system,
Digital recommends that you purchase one for backup. If you have a need
for large amounts of unattended tape backup on a Model 610 or 612, the
TF857 tape loader is the recommended tape option. It has a capacity of up
to 18.2 gigabytes of storage in up to seven tape cartridges. Normally, TK85K
2.1-gigabyte tapes are used, but TF70C, TK50, and other cartridge tapes
can be read. If you need rapid backup of data, consider the TF85C cartridge
tape drive, which can complete full backup in under an hour. It provides a
sustained transfer rate of up to 800 kilobytes per second and has a capacity of
up to 2.6 gigabytes.
If you choose not to have a tape drive/loader, you must use the Ethernet for
software upgrades.
In VAXft systems with storage expansion, all disks must be located in the
expansion cabinets and are accessed through the DSSI bus. Most of them are
fixed disks. If you want to add one removable disk, you cannot use fixed disk 5.
In the Model 310/410, you can have a tape instead of the removable disk, but
the tape drive still replaces fixed disk 5. On the Model 610, each optional tape
drive replaces fixed disk 4, even though the tape drive is in the system cabinet
and disk 4 is in the expansion cabinet. On the Model 612, the tape drives in
Node 1 do not replace any of the fixed disk because the tape drives have a
separate DSSI bus. Figure 2–1 shows one section of an expansion cabinet on a
Model 610 with the disks that can be replaced by removable disks and/or tape
drives.

2–2 VAXft Systems Configurations and Options

Figure 2–1 Fixed Disks and Replacements

Exp

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4
Tap
e
o
Loar
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Rem 5
ov
Diskable

on E

nclo

sure

5
Fixe
Diskd Fix 4
e
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Fixe
2
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Diskd
1
Fixe
Diskd Fix 0
e
Diskd

MR-5524-AD

VAXft Systems Configurations and Options 2–3

2.2 The VAXft Model 110 System
The VAXft Model 110 system is the minimum VAX fault-tolerant system
configuration available from Digital Equipment Corporation. This system
features low cost with limited mass storage. Both zones of the Model
110 system are contained in a single cabinet. Table 2–2 gives the system
components for the Model 110 system; and Figure 2–2 shows the configuration
of the VAXft Model 110 system.
Table 2–2 Options for the Model 110 System
Option

Description

TF70C Tape Drive

Optional; a maximum of one tape drive can be configured
for Zone B.

RF31/RF72 Fixed Disks

The minimum system comes without disks, but disks
are a required option. RF31s and RF72s cannot be
mixed. Configure mass storage in the one of the following
combinations:
•

Three RF31 disks in each zone for a total of six RF31
disks

•

Three RF31 disks in Zone A and two RF31 disks plus
one tape in Zone B for a total of five RF31 disks and
one tape

•

Two RF72 disks in each zone for a total of four RF72
disks

•

Two RF72 disks in Zone A and one RF72 disk plus one
tape in Zone B for a total of three RF72 disks and one
tape

MS520 Memory Module

A maximum of three memory modules can be configured per
zone.

KFE52 System I/O
Controller Module

Up to two additional system I/O controller modules can be
configured in each zone to provide additional connections to
Ethernet lines. (An additional DSSI is not available.)

DSF32
DEC WANcontroller 620

A maximum of four WAN modules (two per zone) can be
configured to give eight synchronous, nonredundant lines.

2–4 VAXft Systems Configurations and Options

Figure 2–2 VAXft Model 110 System

Zon

Disk

Zon
Disk

AC
Pow
Sup er
ply

Disk

C
P
U

Disk Disk
or
Tap
e

AC
Pow
Sup er
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Cros
Fan

Disk

slink

C
P
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Cab

les

Fan

MR-5494-AD

2.3 VAXft Model 310/410 Base System
The VAXft Model 310 and the VAXft Model 410 base systems are identical
in everything but the CPU. The Model 310 CPU has 3.8 VUPs of processing
power, while the Model 410 has 6.0 VUPs. To upgrade from a VAXft Model 310
system to a VAXft Model 410 system requires the replacement of the Model 310
CPU with the Model 410 CPU. Unlike the Model 110, the Model 310/410 is
expandable (see Section 2.4). The Model 310/410 base system is recommended
if your requirements for online nonshadowed disk storage do not exceed four
gigabytes. Table 2–3 gives the system components available for the Model
310/410 base system; and Figure 2–3 shows the configuration of the VAXft
Model 310/410 base system.

VAXft Systems Configurations and Options 2–5

Table 2–3 Options for the Model 310/410 Base System
Option

Description

TF70C Tape Drive

Optional; a maximum of two tape drives can be configured.

RF31/RF72 Disks

a maximum of four removable disks can be configured.

MS520 Memory Module

A maximum of four memory modules can be configured per
zone.

KFE52 System I/O
Controller Module

Up to three additional system I/O controller modules can be
configured in each zone to provide additional connections to
Ethernet lines.

DSF32
DEC WANcontroller 620

A maximum of eight WAN modules (four per zone) can be
configured per system.

Figure 2–3 VAXft Model 310/410 Base System
Zon

Disk
or
Tap
e
D
Po C
Supwer
ply

B
B
U

Disk

Zon

Log

AC
Pow
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ConRemote
nect
ions

ic M

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MR-5493-AD

2–6 VAXft Systems Configurations and Options

2.4 VAXft Model 310/410 System with Storage Expansion
The VAXft Model 310 or VAXft Model 410 system with storage expansion
provides up to 12 gigabytes of nonshadowed mass storage. Figure 2–4 shows
the configuration of the Model 310/410 system with storage expansion.
The Model 310/410 system with storage expansion consists of two system
cabinets and two expansion cabinets. The system cabinets are similar to the
Model 310/410 base system, but contain no mass storage. The expansion
cabinets are connected to the system cabinets by dual DSSI buses to enable
access to mass storage by both zones.
Table 2–4 gives the system components for the Model 310/410 system with
storage expansion.
Table 2–4 Options for the Model 310/410 System with Storage Expansion
Option

Description

TF70C Tape Drive

Optional; a maximum of two tape drives can be configured.

RF31/RF72 Disks

A maximum of 12 fixed disks can be configured; a maximum
of two removable disks can replace two fixed disks.

MS520 Memory Module

A maximum of four memory modules can be configured per
zone.

KFE52 System I/O
Controller Module

The system comes with two system I/O controller
modules per zone for DSSI lines and redundant Ethernet
connections. Up to two additional modules can be configured
in each zone to provide additional Ethernet connections.

DSF32
DEC WANcontroller 620

A maximum of six WAN modules (three per zone) can be
configured for a maximum of 12 synchronous nonredundant
lines.

VAXft Systems Configurations and Options 2–7

Figure 2–4 VAXft Model 310/410 System with Storage Expansion

Exp

ansi

Disk
or
Tap
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D
Po C
Supwer
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A
Po C
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MR-5548-AD

2–8 VAXft Systems Configurations and Options

CPU
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MR-5549-AD

VAXft Systems Configurations and Options 2–9

2.5 VAXft Model 610 Base System
The VAXft Model 610 base system is available in a 60-inch cabinet with one
zone on top of the other, rather than side-by-side. The Model 610 base system
is recommended if your requirements for online nonshadowed storage do not
exceed 4 gigabytes. The Model 610 is expandable (see Section 2.6). Table 2–5
gives the system components for the Model 610 base system; and Figure 2–5
shows the configuration of the VAXft Model 610 base system.
Table 2–5 Options for the Model 610 Base System
Option

Description

TF70C/TF85C Tape
Drive

Optional; a maximum of two tape drives can be configured.

TF857 Tape Loader

Optional; can replace one or both tape drives.

RF31/RF72 Disks

A maximum of four removable disks can be configured.

MS520 Memory Module

A maximum of four memory modules can be configured per
zone.

KFE52 System I/O
Controller Module

Up to three additional system I/O controller modules can be
configured in each zone to provide additional connections to
Ethernet lines.

DSF32
DEC WANcontroller 620

A maximum of eight WAN modules (four per zone) can be
configured for a total of 16 synchronous, nonredundant
lines.

2–10 VAXft Systems Configurations and Options

Figure 2–5 VAXft Model 610 Base System

Zon

Op
Diskt
D
Po C
Supwer
ply

B
B
U

Re
Disqk

Sum
m
Pan ary
el

Log

ic M
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C
P
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A
Po C
Supwer
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DSS

Op
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e
o
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Zon
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ACA
Box
Sum
m
Pan ary
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Supwer
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A
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DSS

Zon

Zon
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ACB
Box
MR-5504-AD

VAXft Systems Configurations and Options 2–11

2.6 VAXft Model 610 Systems with Storage Expansion
Two Model 610 systems with storage expansion are available to provide up
to 24 gigabytes of nonshadowed mass storage. Figures 2–6 and 2–7 show the
configurations of the VAXft Model 610 systems with storage expansion.
The system cabinet is similar to the Model 610 base system, but it contains
no disks. It can contain one or two tape drives. The system with the single
expansion cabinet requires two system I/O controller modules (in slots 1 and 2),
while the system with the two expansion cabinets requires four system I/O
controller modules (in slots 1, 2, 6, and 7). Figures 2–6 and 2–7 show the slots
that the DSSI buses use.
Table 2–6 gives the system components available for the Model 610 system
with one storage expansion cabinet.
Table 2–6 Options for Model 610 System with One Storage Expansion
Cabinet
Option

Description

TF70C/TF85C Tape
Drive

Optional; a maximum of two tape drives can be configured.

TF857 Tape Loader

Optional; can replace one or both tape drives.

RF31/RF72 Disks

A maximum of 12 fixed disks can be configured; two
removable disks can replace two fixed disks.

MS520 Memory Module

A maximum of four memory modules can be configured per
zone.

KFE52 System I/O
Controller Module

DSF32
DEC WANcontroller 620

A maximum of six WAN modules (three per zone) can be
configured to give 12 synchronous nonredundant lines.

2–12 VAXft Systems Configurations and Options

Figure 2–6 VAXft Model 610 System with One Storage Expansion Cabinet

Zon

N
Ava ot
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MR-5505-AD

VAXft Systems Configurations and Options 2–13

Figure 2–7 VAXft Model 610 System with Two Storage Expansion Cabinets

Exp

ansi

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B
B
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MR-5542-AD

2–14 VAXft Systems Configurations and Options

Exp

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A
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MR-5543-AD

VAXft Systems Configurations and Options 2–15

Table 2–7 gives the system components available for the Model 610 system
with two storage expansion cabinets.
Table 2–7 Options for Model 610 System with Two Storage Expansion
Cabinets
Option

Description

TF70C/TF85C Tape
Drive

Optional; a maximum of two tape drives can be configured.

TF857 Tape Loader

Optional; can replace one or both tape drives.

RF31/RF72 Disks

A minimum of four fixed disks is required. A maximum of
24 fixed disk can be configured. Four removable disks can
replace four fixed disks.

MS520 Memory Module

A maximum of two memory modules can be configured per
zone.

KFE52 System I/O
Controller Module

The system comes with four system I/O controller modules
per zone for DSSI lines and Ethernet connections, which is
the maximum number of modules that can be configured.

DSF32
DEC WANcontroller 620

A maximum of two WAN modules (one per zone) can be
configured to give four synchronous nonredundant lines.

2–16 VAXft Systems Configurations and Options

2.7 VAXft Model 612 VAXcluster Base System
The VAXft Model 612 VAXcluster base system is a dual-node VAXcluster
system consisting of two VAXft Model 610 systems sharing a single expansion
cabinet that contains the DSSI disk devices. The Model 612 VAXcluster
system has 12 VUPs of processing power, twice that of a Model 610 system.
The Model 612 is expandable (see Section 2.8). Table 2–8 gives the system
components for the Model 612 VAXcluster base system; and Figure 2–8 shows
the configuration of the VAXft Model 612 VAXcluster base system.
Table 2–8 Options for the Model 612 VAXcluster Base System
Option

Description

TF70C/TF85C Tape
Drive

Optional; maximum of two tape drives can be configured in
Node 1.

TF857 Tape Loader

Optional; can replace one or both tape drives.

RF31/RF72 Disks

A maximum of 12 fixed disks can be configured. A
maximum of two removable disks can replace two fixed
disks.

MS520 Memory Module

A maximum of four memory modules per zone per node can
be configured.

KFE52 System I/O
Controller Module

Node 1 has an additional I/O controller per zone for a tape
drive and redundant Ethernet connections. Up to two
additional modules can be configured in each zone in Node
1 and three modules in each zone in Node 2 to provide
additional connections to Ethernet lines.

DSF32
DEC WANcontroller 620

A maximum of six WAN modules (three per zone) for Node
1 and a maximum of eight (four per zone) for Node 2 can be
configured for a total of 14 synchronous, nonredundant lines
per VAXcluster system.

2.8 VAXft Model 612 VAXcluster System with Storage
Expansion
The VAXft Model 612 VAXcluster system with storage expansion offers the
maximum fault-tolerant system configuration currently available. It provides
up to 24 gigabytes of nonshadowed mass storage.
The Model 612 VAXcluster system with storage expansion consists of two
Model 610 systems sharing the disks in two expansion cabinets, as shown in
Figure 2–9.

VAXft Systems Configurations and Options 2–17

Figure 2–8 VAXft Model 612 VAXcluster Base System
Nod

Zon

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I
MR-5544-AD

2–18 VAXft Systems Configurations and Options

Nod

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MR-5545-AD

VAXft Systems Configurations and Options 2–19

Figure 2–9 VAXft Model 612 VAXcluster with Storage Expansion
Nod

Zon

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Sum
m
Pan ary
el

B
B
U

N
Ava ot
ilabl
e
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ic M
odu
les
C
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ACA
Box
Sum
m
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el
Op
Tapt
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Loar
der

B
B
U

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Diskt

A
Po C
Supwer
ply
DSS

Zon
e
ACB
Box

A
Po C
Supwer
ply

Zon

Re
Disqk

Op
Diskt
D
Po C
Supwer
ply

Op
Diskt

B
B
U

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Diskt

on E

nclo

sure

Op
Diskt

Op
Diskt
DSS

Op
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Re
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DSS

I
MR-5546-AD

2–20 VAXft Systems Configurations and Options

Exp

ansi

Op
Diskt
D
Po C
Supwer
ply

B
B
U

D
Po C
Supwer
ply
A
Po C
Supwer
ply

B
B
U

Nod

N
Ava ot
ilabl
e

Op
Diskt

Re
Disqk

Op
Diskt

sure

Op
Diskt

D
Po C
Supwer
ply

B
B
U

N
Ava ot
ilabl
e
Log

ic M
odu
les
C
P
U

Op
Diskt

DSS

nclo

Zon

Op
Diskt

A
Po C
Supwer
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on E

A
Po C
Supwer
ply

Op
Diskt

DSS

N
Ava ot
ilabl
e

Op
Diskt

Re
Disqk

Op
Diskt

DSS

D
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Supwer
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A
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B
B
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N
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MR-5547-AD

VAXft Systems Configurations and Options 2–21

Table 2–9 gives the system components available for the Model 612 VAXcluster
system with storage expansion.
Table 2–9 Options for the Model 612 VAXcluster System with Storage
Expansion
Option

Description

TF70C/TF85C Tape
Drive

Optional; a maximum of two tape drives can be configured
in Node 1.

TF857 Tape Loader

Optional; a tape loader can replace one or both tape drives.

RF31/RF72 Disks

A minimum of four fixed disks is required. A maximum of
24 disks can be configured, 12 disks per expansion cabinet.
Two removable disks per expansion cabinet can replace two
fixed disks.

MS520 Memory Module

A maximum of four memory modules per zone per node can
be configured.

KFE32 System I/O
Controller Module

The system comes with two system I/O controllers in each
zone in each node for DSSI and Ethernet connections. Up
to two additional modules can be configured in each zone
in each node to provide additional connections to Ethernet
lines.

DSF32
DEC WANcontroller 620

A maximum of six WAN modules (three per zone) can be
configured to give 12 synchronous nonredundant lines per
node and a total of 24 per VAXcluster system.

2–22 VAXft Systems Configurations and Options

3
Communications
As the industry leader in networking, Digital Equipment Corporation provides
communications options to enable VAXft systems to be configured in Local
Area Networks (LANs) using Ethernet connections and Wide Area Networks
(WANs) using the DEC WAN controller 620.

3.1 Ethernet Connections
The ability to connect to the Ethernet enables VAXft systems to use certain
networking options available from Digital Equipment Corporation. Ethernet,
the industry standard Local Area Network, enables VAXft systems to
communicate with other computers in your enterprise.
VAXft systems support redundant connections to a single Ethernet or to
multiple Ethernets. The Ethernet interface is in the system I/O controller
module. This module supports both thick wire and ThinWire connections
between the system and Ethernet.
Figure 3–1 shows two connections to a single Ethernet, one connection from
each zone of the system.

Communications 3–1

Figure 3–1 System Connected to a Single Ethernet
Terminal

VT320

Terminal
Server

DECserver 300
d i g i t a l

Ethernet

d i g i t a l

VAX ft 3000

d i g i t a l

VAX ft 3000

VAXft System
MR-5519-AD

To ensure access to Ethernet even if one connection is not working, you can
configure redundant connections to multiple Ethernets, as shown in Figure 3–2.
You can use up to four system I/O controller modules in each zone for a total
of eight controllers system-wide. Thus, there is at least one I/O module in
each zone connected to each Ethernet at all times. Refer to the Networks and
Communications Buyer’s Guide for further details on Ethernet options.

3–2 Communications

Figure 3–2 System Connected to Dual Ethernet

Terminal
Server

Terminal

VT320

DECserver 300

d i g i t a l

Terminal
Server

Ethernet

d i g i t a l

VAX ft 3000

d i g i t a l

VAX ft 3000

VAXft System
MR-5520-AD

3.1.1 DECserver Terminal Servers
Terminal servers provided by Digital Equipment Corporation for use with
VAXft systems include a variety of DECserver systems to provide asynchronous
communications.
Terminal servers provide system users with easy, transparent access to
VAXft system resources. Figures 3–1 and 3–2 illustrate how terminal servers
are used to connect user terminals to the system through the Ethernet.
Terminal servers enable users to establish and maintain several simultaneous
sessions on system processors without delay, as long as sufficient resources are
available. Figure 3–2 shows how the terminals as well as the servers can be
configured redundantly so that a user can switch to another server if one goes
down. To switch between servers, the user will need a dual-session terminal,
such as a VT320, with a line to each server.

Communications 3–3

3.1.2 Ethernet Communications Servers
Expanded synchronous communications are supported through Ethernetbased Gateways or Microservers. An example of such as server is the DEC
Commserver 100/150. This server supports a VAXft system with special
communications protocols (Q-bus Simpact Associates). It allows up to 80
synchronous/asynchronous serial lines to be connected to the Ethernet at
up to 14 kilobytes per second. The 14 industry protocols supported on these
lines have different performance specifications and the actual number of lines
depends on the type of protocol and the line speed. The DEC Commserver
software provides transparent connection between the DEC Commserver
hardware and the VAXft system. Redundant connections to the Ethernet can
provide failover, and two DEC Commservers can provide redundant dual-path
subsystems to the required communications systems.
For more information on communications servers used with the VAXft systems,
see the VAX Systems/DECsystems Systems and Options Catalog and the
Networking and Communications Buyers Guide.

3.2 DEC WANcontroller 620
The DEC WANcontroller 620 is a two-line synchronous communication
controller option specifically designed for VAXft systems. The WAN module
can be configured to provide highly-available synchronous communication.
Depending upon the model, VAXft systems can support up to four WAN
modules in each zone (eight per system). Each module contains two lines; thus,
eight redundant or 16 nonredundant synchronous lines can be supported by
a single VAXft system, with full modem control. Lines attached to redundant
controllers are connected by Y-connectors that enable a single synchronous line
to be connected to an adapter in each zone, as shown in Figure 3–3.

3–4 Communications

Figure 3–3 Synchronous Communication Lines Using Y-Connectors

Tape
Drive

Disk

Disk
or
Tape

Disk

1 2 3 4 5 6 7

D C M C
S P E O
S U MM
I
OM
E
R
T
Y
H
E
R
N
E
T

Crosslink Cables
Ethernet

Y-connector
Synch
Lines
MR-5522-AD

Communications 3–5

4
System Service and Warranty
The VAXft systems service and repair features and warranties are described in
this chapter.

4.1 Service and Repair Features
The VAXft systems’ design makes them easier to repair and maintain than
other types of fault-tolerant computers.
The dual zone design enables repairs without interruption to a running
application because the system’s redundant hardware enables the operational
zone to continue to service the application while repairs are made to the zone
that has been shut down. Each zone displays a flashing red light to identify
a failure in the zone. Logic modules have Magnetic Fault Indicators (MFI)
that provide visual indication of a fault. The system’s modular system design
makes repair as easy as manually removing the Field Replaceable Unit (FRU)
and replacing it with a new unit.
All the components of each cabinet are accessible from the front. Dual doors
allow easy operator access.
To expedite repairs even further, the system can automatically notify a
destination of your choice by automatic dial-out notification.
Automatic dial-out notification is Digital Equipment Corporation’s proactive
approach to resolving system problems before they lead to failures.
Depending on your requirements, automatic dial-out notification can send a
message to an operator on site or to a remote terminal using a predefined
telephone number and a modem. To have this feature available, you must have
System Directed Diagnosis Version 1.6 and DSNlink Version 1.1–1. Additional
features can be added to automatically place a service call to a Digital Service
Center when a system is experiencing a problem or the system exceeds a
predictive maintenance threshold.

System Service and Warranty 4–1

When you combine all of these features, you can be sure that VAXft systems
provide the fastest and most accurate repair and service available for any
fault-tolerant computer system today.

4.2 System Warranty
The following warranties are available for VAXft systems:
•

Standard Warranty

•

List Warranty

4.2.1 Standard Warranty
The standard warranty available for VAXft systems includes:
•

Hardware installation

•

One-year DECservice for hardware, 24-hour, 7-day a week coverage,
including holidays, with a committed response time

•

Telephone assistance for hardware, operating system software, and Digital
layered products purchased with the Standard Warranty

•

Critical on-site software support

•

Digital Software Information Network

•

Right-to-use new versions of software

•

Product Foundation Warranty for kernel software

4.2.2 List Warranty
The List Warranty available for VAXft systems includes a 1-year return to
factory for all hardware and software conformance.

4.3 Digital Assisted Services Program
The Digital Assisted Services Program (DASP), which provides selfmaintenance customers with selected products and services under an annuity
payment schedule, is available for VAXft systems.
The DASP is a four-part program that includes:
•

Diagnostics and documentation
This includes licensing of diagnostics, media and documentation kits for
diagnostics, hardcopy manuals and print sets, maintenance documentation
service (including DEC-O-Log), and rights-to-copy.

4–2 System Service and Warranty

•

Diagnostic and documentation updates
This includes media and documentation kits, microfiche for hardcopy
documentation, and rights-to-copy.

•

DECmailer and Field Change Orders
This includes DECmailer Plus board repair for a 24-hour turnaround
time, emergency dispatch service at no extra charge, all repairable boards
accepted regardless of revision, unlimited number of boards repaired. Field
Change Orders include the same services as DECservice customer and
materials only customer installations.

•

Customer Support Centers
Customer Support Centers provide 24-hour, 7-day a week, access to remote
diagnostic and remote support groups. In addition, use of service delivery
tools, such as VAXsimPlus and SPEAR, is included.

A subscriber to DASP can also purchase spare parts and kits, internal
customer services training, and backup support on a per call basis.

System Service and Warranty 4–3

Glossary
The following is a list of terms commonly used in this guide.
automatic dial-out notification
The process of sending a message to a specific remote site using a modem and
a predefined telephone number to alert personnel of a system fault or failure.
autonotification
Automatic dial-out notification.
availability
The likelihood that the system will be operable when you require it to perform
a task.
boot or bootstrap
The process of loading system software into a processor’s main memory.
crosslink
The cable that connects two VAXft zones together to form a fault-tolerant
system.
DEC WANcontroller 620
Digital Equipment Corporation’s Wide Area Network controller for VAXft
systems.
DMA
Direct Memory Access. The hardware that transfers data between VAXft main
memory and the buffer memory on the I/O modules.
DSSI
A data bus that uses the System Communication Architecture (SCA) protocols
for direct host-to-storage communications. The DSSI cable can extend to six
meters and has a peak bandwidth of four megabytes.
Glossary–1

error
An incorrect response from a hardware module. An error can lead to a system
failure in non fault-tolerant systems. An error is a manifestation of a fault.
See fault.
failover
The reconfiguration process that a fault-tolerant system undergoes to remain
operational after it experienced a failure or partial shutdown for planned
maintenance.
Failover Set Manager (FSM)
A VAXft System Services utility that ensures fault-tolerant access to I/O, for
example, the Ethernet. It permits users to manipulate the membership of
failover sets of redundant physical Ethernet adapters by adding or removing
them, or by changing their status.
failure
Any system behavior that deviates from the system’s specifications. In regard
to the VAXft systems, failure often refers to a failed hardware component, such
as a CPU or memory module.
fault
A condition existing in hardware or software that can lead to system
failure. Typically, physical conditions such as worn-out modules, external or
environmental problems, design flaws, or manufacturing defects can cause
hardware faults. Software design flaws or implementation errors can cause
software faults.
fault tolerant system
Fault tolerance is the degree to which a computer system maintains its
reliability and availability. A computer system that tolerates any single
point of failure and continues to provide virtually uninterrupted service to an
application is a fault-tolerant system.
FRU
Field Replaceable Unit. A unit designed to be replaced in the field by
appropriate personnel.
lockstep
Simultaneous execution of the same instruction stream by the two CPU
modules in a VAXft system running in a synchronized, dual-zone configuration.

Glossary–2

parallel crosslink
The portion of the crosslink used to communicate between system zones when
the system is running in lockstep operation.
PCM
Power and Cooling Monitor.
reliability
The likelihood that a system or system component will continue to function
over a given time period.
redundancy
Duplication of elements or components to provide alternative functional
channels in case of single component failures.
shadow set
Several physical disk drives, known as shadow set members, that are
associated with a software-created virtual unit for volume shadowing.
system disk
The disk that contains the VMS operating system.
system I/O controller module
VAXft I/O module. The I/O module contains Ethernet ports, DSSI bus
communications, and system console ports.
VAXft System Services
A VMS layered product required to use a VAXft system as a fault-tolerant
system.
VAXcluster system
A loosely coupled, highly integrated, distributed computing environment.
There are four types of VAXcluster system configurations, depending
on the medium used for interprocessor communications: CI-based,
local-area (Ethernet-based), DSSI-based (VAXft Model 612 system), and
mixed-interconnect VAXcluster systems.

Glossary–3

volume shadowing
An implementation of disk shadowing in which duplication of data to more
than one volume is controlled through software that can reside on a central
server host in a local area VAXcluster system. It provides increased data
integrity and high availability to VAXft systems.
Y-connector
Hardware that joins two synchronous communication lines into a single output
line.
zone
A section of a fully-configured VAXft system that contains a minimum of a CPU
module, memory module, I/O module, and associated devices. A fault-tolerant
system consists of two such zones with synchronized processor operations. If
one zone fails, processing continues uninterrupted through automatic failover
to the other zone.

Glossary–4

Index
A
Asynchronous communications, 1–7
Automatic dial-out notification, 4–1
Autonotification, 1–12, 4–1

B
Backplane, 1–4
five-slot, 1–5 (fig)
seven-slot, 1–4 (fig)
Base system
Model 110, 2–4
Model 310/410, 2–5
Model 610, 2–10
Model 612 VAXcluster, 2–17

C
Communications, 3–1
Asynchronous, 1–7
DEC WANcontroller 620, 1–8, 3–4
Ethernet, 3–1
synchronous, 3–4
Synchronous (Ethernet), 1–7
Y-connector, 3–4 (fig.)
Communication servers
Ethernet, 3–4
Configuration
Ethernet, 3–1
Model 110 system, 2–4, 2–5 (fig.)
Model 310/410 base system, 2–5, 2–6
(fig.)

Configuration (Cont.)
Model 310/410 expanded system, 2–7,
2–7 (fig.)
Model 610 base system, 2–10, 2–10 (fig.)
Model 610 expanded systems, 2–12
Model 610 with dual expander, 2–14 (fig.)
Model 610 with single expander, 2–12
(fig.)
Model 612 VAXcluster base system, 2–17,
2–17 (fig.)
Model 612 VAXcluster expanded system,
2–17, 2–20 (fig.)
Console terminals, 1–7
CPU module, 1–5
Crosslink, 1–4, 1–6

D
DASP (Digital Assisted Services Program),
4–2
DEC Commserver 100/150, 1–7, 3–4
DECnet-VAX end-node license, 1–9
DECnet-VAX full function license, 1–9
DECserver terminal servers, 3–3
DEC WANcontroller 620, 1–8, 3–4
options, 2–1
Digital Customer Services, 4–1
Disks
fixed, 2–2
removable, 2–2
DSNlink, 4–1
DSSI, 1–7
options, 2–1
DSSI-based VAXcluster system, 1–7
Dual Ethernet connections, 3–2 (fig.)

Index–1

Dual-session terminal, 3–3
Dual zones, 1–2

E
Environmental monitor, 1–12
Ethernet, 1–7
communications, 3–1
communication servers, 3–4
configurations, 3–1
dual, 3–2 (fig.)
options, 2–1
single, 3–1 (fig.)
Ethernet-based VAXcluster systems, 1–7
Expanded system
Model 310/410, 2–7
Model 610, 2–12
Model 612 VAXcluster, 2–17

F
Five-slot backplane, 1–5 (fig.)
Fixed disks, 2–2
replacing, 2–2, 2–3 (fig.)
FRU (Field Replaceable Unit), 4–1
FSM (Failover Set Manager) Utility
overview, 1–10
FTSS$CONTROL Utility, 1–10

L
LAN (Local Area Networks), 1–7
Licenses
software, 1–9
Local Area Network (LAN), 1–7
Lockstep, 1–3

M
Mass storage
options, 2–1, 2–2
Memory, 1–6
options, 2–1
MFI (Magnetic Fault Indicators), 4–1
Model 110 system, 2–4
options, 2–4

Index–2

Model 110 VUPs, 1–6
Model 310/410 base system, 2–5
options, 2–5
Model 310/410 expanded system, 2–7
options, 2–7
Model 310 VUPs, 1–6
Model 410 VUPs, 1–6
Model 610 base system, 2–10
options, 2–10
Model 610 expanded systems, 2–12
Model 610 VUPs, 1–6
Model 610 with dual expander
options, 2–16
Model 610 with single expander
options, 2–12
Model 612 VAXcluster base system, 2–17
options, 2–17
Model 612 VAXcluster expanded system,
2–17
options, 2–22
Model 612 VUPs, 1–6
Module slots, 1–4

N
Networks
Local Area, 1–7

O
Options
DEC Wancontroller 620, 2–1
DSSI, 2–1
Ethernet, 2–1
mass storage, 2–1, 2–2
memory, 2–1
Model 110 system, 2–4
Model 310/410 base system, 2–5
Model 310/410 expanded system, 2–7
Model 610 base system, 2–10
Model 610 with dual expander, 2–16
Model 610 with single expander, 2–12
Model 612 VAXcluster base system, 2–17
Model 612 VAXcluster expanded system,
2–22

PCM (Power and Cooling Monitor), 1–12
Power subsystem, 1–11

Terminals
console, 1–7
Terminal servers
DECserver, 3–3
redundant, 3–3

R
Redundant Ethernet connections, 1–7
Redundant terminals, 3–3
Removable disks, 2–2
Repair, 4–1
Replacing fixed disks with removable disks,
2–2, 2–3 (fig.)
Replacing fixed disks with tapes, 2–2, 2–3
(fig.)

S
Servers
communication (Ethernet), 3–4
Seven-slot backplane, 1–4 (fig.)
Single Ethernet connection, 3–1 (fig.)
Single point of failure, 1–1
Single point of repair, 1–1
Software licenses, 1–9
Synchronous communications, 1–8, 3–4
DEC WANcontroller 620, 1–8
Ethernet, 1–7
System architecture, 1–2
dual zones, 1–2
System Directed Diagnosis (SDD), 4–1
System hardware, 1–4
logical design, 1–2 (fig.)
System I/O controller, 1–6
System software, 1–8

U
UPS (Uninterruptible Power Supply), 1–1,
1–11

V
VAXcluster system
DSSI-based, 1–7
VAXft Model 612, 1–7
VAXft Model 612 VAXcluster system, 1–7
VAXft System Services, 1–10
VMS operating system, 1–9
VMS Volume Shadowing, 1–9
guidelines, 1–9
VUPs
Model 110, 1–6
Model 310, 1–6
Model 410, 1–6
Model 610, 1–6
Model 612, 1–6

W
Warranty
Digital Assisted Services Program, 4–2
list, 4–2
standard, 4–2

Y
Y-connector, 3–4

Index–3