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EK-RCD31-OM-002

December 1987

74 pages

Original

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Document:	VAXmate Expansion Box Installation Guide and Owners Manual Jan1987
Order Number:	EK-RCD31-OM
Revision:	002
Pages:	74
Original Filename:	http://bitsavers.org/pdf/dec/vaxmate/EK-RCD31-OM-002_VAXmate_Expansion_Box_Installation_Guide_and_Owners_Manual_Jan1987.pdf

OCR Text

Expansion Box
Installation Guide
and Owner's Manual

mate

Expansion Box
Installation Guide
and Owner's Manual

September 1986

January 1987
© Digital Equipment Corporation 1986, 1987. All Rights Reserved.
The information in this document is subject to change without notice
and should not be construed as a commitment by Digital Equipment
Corporation. Digital Equipment Corporation assumes no responsibility
for any errors that may appear in this document.
The software described in this document is furnished under a license
and may only be used or copied in accordance with the terms of such
license.
No responsibility is assumed for the use or reliability of software on
equipment that is not supplied by DIGITAL or its affiliated companies.
MS·DOS is a trademark of Microsoft Corporation.
The following are trademarks of Digital Equipment Corporation:

IIIIDIO""
DEC
DECmate
DECsystem-lO
DECSYSTEM-20
DECUS
DECwriter
Printed in U.S.A.

DIBOL
MASSBUS
PDP
P/OS
Professional
Rainbow
RSTS

RSX
UNIBUS

VAX
VMS
VT
Work Processor

Contents
Introduction
Chapter 1

Before You Begin

Chapter 2

Installing the Expansion Box

Chapter 3

Starting the VAXmate Workstation

Chapter 4

Testing, Formatting, and Installing Software
on the Hard Disk

Chapter 5

Installing Industry-Standard Options in the
Expansion Box

Chapter 6 Running Extended Self-Test After
Reconnecting VAXmate Workstation
Chapter 7

Owner's Information

Chapter 8

Problem Solving

Appendix A ThinWire Ethernet Cable Guidelines
iii

Introduction
This guide describes how to install a VAXmate expansion box that contains a
hard disk drive, test the installation, prepare and format the hard disk, and
install options within the expansion box.
This guide is written for the following users.
• Someone installing an expansion box and VAXmate workstation that will
be connected to a network.
• Someone installing an expansion box and VAXmate workstation that will
be used as a standalone system.
• A system administrator installing an expansion box and VAXmate workstation that will be used as a VAXmate server for a network.
If you have a VAXmate workstation, expansion box, and several options,

install the expansion box first.
You can install the expansion box and most other options. Digital Field Service installs the 80287 Coprocessor option inside the monitor where high
voltages are present.

11111 Introduction

When to Use This Guide

Conventions

Use this guide to:

This guide uses the following conventions.

• Install the VAXmate workstation and expansion
box.

• Keyboard keys and commands are bold.

• Reconnect the VAXmate workstation and expansion box if the expansion box was separated from
the VAXmate workstation.

• A note contains important general information.

• Install industry-standard options in the expansion
box.
• Solve a hard disk problem.
• Install standalone software on hard disk.

• <Return> means press the Return key.

• A caution contains information to prevent damage
to equipment or software.
• A warning contains information to prevent personal injury.

Chapter 1
Before You Begin
The following illustration shows some of the expansion box parts and a
generic industry-standard option for the expansion box. Do not install such
an option until instructed to do so.
INDUSTRY-STANDARD
OPTION AND CABLE

LJ-0999

1-1

IIIII Before You Begin
Introduction

Installation Guidelines

Your VAXmate expansion box has a power supply and a
hard disk drive. The expansion box also has two option
slots for industry-standard option boards. When power is
applied to the expansion box, you can see a green light
emitting diode (LED) through the left side vents (when
you are facing the front).

Follow all instructions in sequence. The text tells you
when instructions and screens are different because of
specific requirements for networked or standalone
systems.

Handle the expansion box carefully to avoid possible
damage to the drive's read/write heads and nonremovable media.

Check your system type.
Identify your system type by the diskettes and documentation shipped with your system. You need to remember
this information for later.
If You Received ...

Then You Are
Installing ...

One diskette and the VAXmate
System Handbook

A networked system

Several diskettes and the
VAXmate User's Guide

A standalone system

Several diskettes and the
VAXmate User's Guide and a
VAXmate System Administrator's Guide

A VAXmate Server
System

CAUTION

Do not plug in the power cord or switch on
the system until instructed to do so.
If you are installing an expansion box with a networked
system, you must connect the ThinWire Ethernet cable
shipped with the VAXmate workstation. DIGITAL recommends that you read the Appendix, ThinWire Ethernet
Cable Guidelines, before you handle the ThinWire
Ethernet cable.

Installing and testing the expansion box can take up to 2
and 1/2 hours. That time includes preparing and formatting the hard disk drive by running the FDISK and FORMAT utilities, and installing software on the hard disk
drive. That time does not include installing and testing
any industry-standard options in the expansion box.
CAUTION

Do not run the FDISK or FORMAT utilities if
the hard disk has been used. These utilities
destroy any data stored on the hard disk.
NOTE·

When you install the expansion box the first
time, no data is stored on the hard disk.
1-2

Before You Begin

Allow at least four inches of air space around the expansion box for cooling. Do not place any objects against the
expansion box vents.
Install and test the expansion box to determine if it is
working correctly. Do this before you install any industry-standard options you might have in the expansion
box.
WARNING
Do not operate the VAXmate workstation
with its rear door open.

IIIII

Separate the expansion box from the VAXmate
workstation whenever you want to move the VAXmate
workstation to a new location. Never carry the VAXmate
workstation with the expansion box attached.
WARNING
The expansion box and VAXmate workstation
together weigh 44.5-50 lb (20.1-23 kg).

Whenever you reinstall the expansion box after separating it from the VAXmate workstation, you must run the
VAXmate extended self-test. Instructions for running the
extended self-test are in Chapter 6, Run extended selfTest Mer Reconnecting VAXmate Workstation.

1-3

Chapter 2
Installing the
Expansion Box
This chapter describes how to install the expansion box on your VAXmate
workstation. Installation procedures are included for VAXmate workstations
that have not been used, and for VAXmate workstations that are already in
use.

2-1

IIIII Installing the Expansion Box
Is your VAXmate workstation already in use?
If a ThinWire Ethernet cable is connected to the
VAXmate workstation, tell your system administrator that
you are going to disconnect the T -connector from the
VAXmate workstation.

1. Make sure the VAXmate workstation power switch
is set to 0 (off).
2. Disconnect all cables from the VAXmate
workstation.
NOTE
If present, remove the ThinWire Ethernet

cable T-connector from the back of the
VAXmate workstation, but do not remove the
ThinWire cable from the T-connector.
WARNING
If telephone cables are connected to the

VAXmate workstation, first disconnect the
telephone cable from the wall, then from the
VAXmate workstation.

2-2

LJ·0981

Installing the Expansion Box 11111

Connect the VAXmate workstation to the
expansion box.
1. Place the expansion box where you want the
VAXmate workstation located.

2. Lift the VAXmate workstation over the expansion
box.
3. Gently lower the VAXmate workstation onto the
two expansion box posts.

WARNING

The VAXmate workstation weighs 33.5 lb
(15.1 kg), and you must lift it to do steps 2,
3, and 4. The VAXmate workstation is
heavier toward the front (screen) of the unit.

LJ·0741

LJ-0742

2-3
--- -------- - - - - - - - - - - - - -

IIIII Installing the Expansion Box
4. Press down firmly on the VAXmate workstation.
You should hear the expansion box click into
place.
5. If you have them, install the PC50X-MA integral
modem and/or PC50X-AA 2 megabyte memory
options. Follow the instructions provided with
these VAXmate workstation options, then return
here to continue.

NOTE

If you are installing both the modem and
memory boards, install the modem board
first.
6. Connect all necessary cables as described in Chapter 1 of your VAXmate System Handbook. Then,
go to Chapter 3 in this book to continue.
NOTE
If you are installing a standalone system, do

not connect the ThinWire Ethernet cable to
the VAXmate workstation.

LJ-Q817A

LJ-0743

2-4

Chapter 3
Starting the VAXmate
Workstation
Are you installing a VAXmate workstation to be connected to a
network?
Get your key diskette and any password(s) you might need to access network
software from your system administrator.

Was your VAXmate workstation in use in a networked system
before you attached the new expansion box?
Ask your system administrator to prepare your key diskette for use with a
hard disk.

Are you installing a standalone VAXmate workstation?
Use the VAXmate SjA Install diskette. This diskette is shipped with your system software. Then, continue with instructions in this book.

Are you a system administrator preparing to install the
VAXmate server software?
Use the MS-DOS diskette to start the system. Follow the instructions in this
chapter for standalone systems. Your start-up screen is the MS-DOS start-up
screen (not shown here).

3-1

11111 Starting the VAXmate Workstation

Starting the VAXmate Workstation
1. Remove your appropriate diskette from the
envelope.

NOTE
Your diskette (s) may have a self-adhesive tab
covering the write-protect notch. If so, do
not remove the write-protect tab.

2. Make sure the notch on the diskette faces down,
then insert the diskette in the diskette drive.
3. Push the diskette in until the diskette is seated.
4. Lock the diskette drive.

DISKETTE
JACKET

See Chapter 2, steps 2 through 6, in your
VAXmate System Handbook if you want more
information about using the diskette drive, but
make sure you do the remaining steps in this
procedure.

PROTECTIVE
ENVELOPE

LJ-0900

3-2

Starting the VAXmate Workstation 11111

5. Set the VAXmate workstation power switch to 1
(on) and watch for the first screen.
The VAXmate workstation performs a short powerup test every time you switch it on. The test program draws a test bar across the screen and slowly
fills this bar during testing.

Start-Up Screen Using the Key Diskette
(Networked System)
After the power-up test, the system displays the key diskette start-up screen, which may vary with each user.
1. Set the power switch to off; wait five seconds,

then turn the system back on. (This procedure
allows the VAXmate computer to recognize the
presence of the expansion box.)
2. Boot the key diskette by holding down the Ctrl
key and pressing the Alt and Del keys at the same
time.

The system should display the DOS prompt, either
A> or I>.
3. Check to see if the hard disk has already been
prepared. At the prompt, type:

dir C: <Return>
6. Did the screen display a number or remain blank?
If so, the system might have a problem. Go
directly to page 3-5 for help.
7. Did the system complete the power-up test and
then display a blinking cursor only? If so, the diskette or the expansion box connection might have
a problem. Go directly to page 3-5 for help.

If your hard disk has been prepared for you, the
system displays a list of files on it. If not, your
system displays an error message.

4. In either event, go to Chapter 4, Testing, Formatting, and Installing Software on the Hard Disk
(page 4-1).

8. Watch for your diskette'S start-up screen. Check
this page and page 3-4 for examples and information about your start-up screen. Follow the appropriate instructions.

3-3

IIIII Starting the VAXmate Workstation
Start-Up Screen Using the VAXmate S/A
Install Diskette

Keyboard Map Loader Ver5ion 1.00
(C) Copyright 1985, 1986 by Digital
Equipment Corporation

After the power-up test, the system displays the following keyboard selection screen.

The default keyboard map "STDUS.KEY"
ha5 been 5ucce55fully loaded.

A:>
VAxmate operating Environment Version 1.1
(c) Copyright 1985, 1986 by Digital Equipment Corporation
VAXmate Standalone Installation Diskette
Select your keyboard using the arrow keys, then press Return.

2. Enter the new date and time in the format shown
on the following screen. Press Return after each
entry.

united States
Canadian
German

NOTE

Spanish

The version number(s) displayed on your
screen might be different.

French
Norwegian
Swedish
English
Danish
Finnish

Italian
Swiss (German)
Swiss (French)
Keyboard Map Loader Version 1.00

(c) Copyright 1985, 1986 by Digital Equipment Corporation
The default keyboard III:ap "STDUS.KEY" has been successfully loaded

1. Using the arrow keys, select your keyboard. Then,
press Return.
If successful, a message similar to the following
message displays on your screen. The file name in
quotation marks varies depending on the keyboard
selected.

3-4

Please enter the date and time

Current date is Fri 11-14-1986
Enter new date (mm-dd-yy):
Current time is 9:11:01.82
Ente r new time:

Starting the VAXmate Workstation

When the Power-Up Test Displays a Number

3. If your disk has not been formatted, the screen
displays the following message. If your disk has
been formatted, you will not see this message. In
either case, go to the next step.

Did the VAXmate workstation display the number
83?

rr=======================~

Please run the FDISK and FORMAT utilities

as described in the VAxmate Expansion Box
Installation guide and Owner's Manual.

IIIII

The power-up test detected the presence of an unformatted hard disk. Ignore the number and go to Chapter 4,
Testing, Formatting, and Installing Software on the Hard
Disk (page 4-1).
Did the VAXmate workstation display any other
number?

The system might have a fault. Try to clear the fault as
follows.
4. When you see the A> prompt, unlock the diskette
drive and set the power switch to 0 (oft).
5. Go to Chapter 4, Testing, Formatting, and
Installing Software on the Hard Disk (page 4-1).

1. Unlock the drive and remove the diskette.

2. Set the power switch to 0 (oft).
3. Make sure all cables are firmly connected.
4. Make sure the expansion box is firmly connected
to the VAXmate workstation.

NOTE

Chapter 4 in this guide tells you when to
turn the power switch on again. This
procedure of turning the power on, off, and
then on again prepares the VAXmate
workstation for more testing.

5. Wait 15 seconds and then insert your diskette.
Make sure the write-protect notch is facing down.
6. Lock the drive and set the power switch to 1
(on). The power-up test runs again.

3-5
-~~

-~-

~~~~--------.--~~-~~-

-.-.---~-

-~----

11111 Starting the VAXmate Workstation

7. If the problem clears, go to page 3-3, step 8 to
continue.

2. Unlock the drive and set the power switch to 0
(off).

8. If the problem does not clear, unlock the drive
and remove the key diskette. Then, set the power
switch to 0 (off) and go to Chapter 8, Problem
Solving, for help (page 8-1).

3. Press down on the VAXmate workstation to make
sure the VAXmate workstation and expansion box
are firmly connected.

When the Screen Remains Blank
Try to correct the blank screen as follows.
1. Adjust the VAXmate workstation brightness and
contrast controls to midrange.

4. Make sure the power cable is firmly connected,
then wait 15 seconds.
5. Lock the drive and set the power switch to 1
(on). The power-up test runs again.
6. If the power-up test displays the test bar, go to
page 3-3 step 8 to continue.
7. If the screen remains blank, unlock the drive and
remove the diskette. Then, set the power switch
to 0 (off) and call your system administrator or
authorized service representative for help.

3-6

Starting the VAXmate Workstation

IIII

When the Screen Displays a Blinking Cursor
After the Power-Up Test
When the screen displays a blinking cursor following the
power-up test, the drive might not be locked, the diskette might be inserted incorrectly, or you might have
the wrong diskette. Try to correct the problem as
follows.
1. Unlock the drive and remove the diskette.

2. Set the VAXmate workstation power switch to 0
(oft) and wait 15 seconds.
3. Make sure you have the correct diskette for your
system.
4. Make sure the write-protect notch is facing down.
5 . Insert the correct diskette for your system in the
drive.
6. Make sure to lock the drive.
7. Set the VAXmate workstation power switch to 1
(on). The power-up test runs again.
8. If the screen displays your system start up screen,
go to page 3-3, step 8 to continue.
9. If the screen still displays the blinking cursor
after the power-up test, unlock the drive and
remove the diskette. Then, set the power switch
to 0 (oft) and call your system administrator or
authorized service representative for help.

3-7

Chapter 4
Testing, Formatting,
and Installing Software
on the Hard Disk
This chapter describes how to run the extended self-test, the FDISK utility
(which partitions the drive), the FORMAT utility (which formats the drive),
and how to install software on the hard disk. If you are using a key diskette,
do not type INSTALL until this guide tells you to do so.
CAUTION
If the hard disk already contains data, or you are reinstalling the

expansion box, run the extended self-test only. Do not run the
FDISK or FORMAT utilities. These utilities destroy any data on your
hard disk.
NOTE
If you are installing the expansion box for the first time, there is

no data on the hard disk.
Before you begin, make sure the VAXmate workstation and expansion box are
fully connected. Do this by pressing down firmly on the VAXmate
workstation.
When the VAXmate workstation and expansion box are not firmly connected,
you can get faulty messages when you test, partition, and format the hard
disk.

4-1

IIIII Testing, Formatting, and Installing Software on the Hard Disk
Running the Extended Self-Test
The extended self-test takes about five minutes to complete. It prepares the VAXmate workstation to recognize
the presence of all hardware and options and further
tests the circuitry, video, and VAXmate options.
You can see Chapter 7, Owners Information, for more
information about the test, but you do not need to read
that information at this time. Use the following guidelines when running the extended self-test.
• Run the extended self-test when you install the
expansion box for the first time and every time
you separate the VAXmate workstation and expansion box.

R:un the extended self-test as follows.
1. Lock the diskette drive. (Your diskette should still

be in the diskette drive).
2. Set the power switch to 1 (on).
The VAXmate workstation performs the power-up
test and then displays your start-up screen.
NOTE
If you are using a key diskette, do not type
INSTALL yet.

3. At the MS-DOS operating system prompt (A»,
press the Ctrl (control), Alt (alternate), and
Home keys at the same time. The test now runs.

• Run the extended self-test from the operating system prompt.
• Run the extended self-test with a formatted highdensity diskette in the diskette drive (your key or
standalone diskette).

-F#H

~1-3.;-'

-v~r,~¥O~rv""'''~--~1 ~

4-2

'--'

Testing, Formatting, and Installing Software on the Hard Disk

During part of the test it is normal for the
VAXmate workstation to flash patterns on the
screen.
When the extended self-test is complete, the system displays its configuration screen. Your screen
display may be different than the one shown here.

IIIII

4. If the VAXmate workstation displayed a number,
see Chapter 8, Problem Solving (page 8-1).

S. If the VAXmate workstation did not list all the
options you installed, turn your system off, then
turn it back on and run the extended self-test
again.
If the option is still not listed, call your system

administrator or authorized service representative.

NOTE

The screen should list all the options that
you installed, including the hard disk drive,
the expansion box (BASOO), and the
expansion box battery (Li).

6. Press any key.
The VAXmate workstation exits from the
extended-self test.
If you are using a key diskette, your VAXmate
workstation displays the start-up screen again. Do
not type INSTALL yet.

1024 Kb

1 .X
t RDLi
BASDD
80287
PCSOX-MA
VSXXX-AA

LK25001
27256 MO/DA/YR
08-00-2B- 02-78-78

STANDARD MEMDRY
DISKETTE DRIVE
HARD DISK DRIVE OPTION
LITHIUM BATTERY
EXPANSION BOX

If you are using the standalone or MS-DOS dis-

kette, your VAXmate workstation displays the A>
prompt.

MATH COPROCESSOR OPTION

MODEM OPTION
MOUSE
KEYBOARD VERSION NUMBER
ROM AND REVISION DATE
ETHERNET ADDRESS

4-3
---------- - - - - - - - - - - - - - --------_ .. _.-

IIIII Testing, Formatting, and Installing Software on the Hard Disk
Running the FDISK Utility
CAUTION
If the hard disk already contains data, do not

run the following FDISK or FORMAT
utilities. These utilities erase all data from
the hard disk.
1. At the A> prompt, type:

FDISK <Return>
The FDISK main menu is displayed.
During this procedure, you will be instructed
to choose menu selections 1, 2, 3, 5, and 8
from the FDISK main menu. Use the number
keys on the main keyboard to enter the
selections.
After you make the selections (some selections
can take several minutes to process) the FDISK
main menu is displayed again.
Follow these instructions carefully. After you
enter a selection and press Return, you cannot
stop the command execution. The only exception is selection 2, Initialize the drive, where
you are given a chance to change your mind.
Enter your selection by typing a number followed by <Return>_

4-4

Hard Disk Setup Program Version 1.00
(C) Copyright 1985, by Digital Equipment Corporation
Drive type is: RD
Hard Disk disk partitions:
Startup priority: floppy disk, hard disk, network.
1. Set drive type.
2. Initialize the drive. (WARNING: erases the entire drive)
3. Add a partition.
4. Delete a partition.
5. Set the startup partition.
6. Prepare drive for shipping.
7. Select network startup priority.
8. Exit from this program.
Enter your selection by typing a number followed by (Return) or by
pressing the corresponding function key:

LJ-0989

2. Choose the Set drive type option from the
FDISK main menu by typing:
1 <Return>

The FDISK utility displays another menu.
Follow directions on the screen to choose your
drive type.
• Type 1 for RD31.
• Type 2 for RD32.

Testing, Formatting, and Installing Software on tbe Hard Disk

3. Choose the Initialize the drive option from
the FDISK main menu by typing:

IIIII

6. Choose the Set the start-up partition option
from the FDISK main menu by typing:

2 <Return>

5 <Return>

NOTE
If you want to stop the initialization process,
press Return to return to the FDISK start-up
menu.

The FDISK utility displays another menu. The
start-up partition is the partition from which
the MS-DOS operating system starts.
7. Choose partition C: from this menu as the
start-up partition by typing:

Now press <FlO>.
4. Choose the Add a partition option from the
FDISK main menu by typing:

1 <Return>
The FDISK utility displays the FDISK main
menu and lists partition C: as the start-up
partition.

3 <Return>
The FDISK utility displays an instructional
screen. When you create a partition, indicate
the size as a percentage of the whole, such as
100 (100%). DIGITAL recommends that you
create one partition of 100 percent.

8. Choose the Exit from this program option
from the FDISK main menu by typing:

8 <Return>
When you exit the program, the FDISK utility
displays a message that tells you how to restart
the system.

5. Create one partition on the hard disk drive by
typing:

100 <Return>
This creates partition C:.

4-5
"-~~-"""""--

-""-"""""--~

-------"--~----""-----""

""--"-~--"""

--"---"-""--~-"-"---"""

IIIII Testing, Formatting, and Installing Software on the Hard Disk
9. Follow the instructions on the screen. Press
the Ctrl, Alt, and Del keys at the same time.
The VAXmate workstation displays the start-up
screen after a few seconds.
If you are using the standalone or MS-DOS diskette, enter the time and date again. You are
now ready to format partition C:.

Running the Format Utility
CAUTION
If your hard disk contains data, do not run

the following FORMAT utility.
Formatting places a part of the MS-DOS operating system
on the partition. If you later choose to create more than
one partition, you must format each partition.
NOTE
When you type the FORMAT command,
enter all the spaces exactly as shown.
1. At A> prompt type:
FORMAT C: /S <Return>

The FORMAT utility displays the following
warning.
The VAXmate workstation displays the start-up
screen after a few seconds.

WARNING, ALL DATA ON NON-REMOVABLE DISK
DRIVE C: WILL BE LOST!
Proceed with Format (YIN)?

If you are using the standalone or MS-DOS

diskette, enter the time and date again. You are
now ready to format partition C:.

4-6

The FORMAT command with the /S switch
formats the partition and copies the IO.SYS,
MSDOS.SYS, COMMAND.COM and the boot loader
files to the partition. This lets you start the system
from drive C:.

Testing, Formatting, and Installing Software on the Hard Disk

2. Type Y <Return>.

IIIII

5. If you are using a key diskette - the screen
displays the A> prompt. Go to Installing Software
on the Hard Disk.

The FORMAT utility displays a message telling you
how to continue or abort. If you do not want to
continue you can stop the FORMAT utility by
pressing the Ctrl key and C at the same time.

If you are using the S/A Install diskette -

press the Ctrl, Alt, and Del keys at the same time.
The start-up screen is displayed. Enter the time
and date again. Then, go to Installing Software On
the Hard Disk.

3. Press Return.
The FORMAT utility counts the cylinders as each
cylinder is formatted and verified.

If you are using the MS-DOS diskette - go to

When formatting is complete, the system prompts
you for a label (name) for the partition.

Installing Software On The Hard Disk.

Installing Software on the Hard Disk

4. Follow the directions on the screen. Mer the
question mark, type a name (up to 11 characters)
and press Return.

See the following instructions for the type of system you
are installing.

If you do not want to label your drive, do not

Are You Using the MS-DOS Diskette and Preparing
to Install the VAXmate Server Software?

type a name, just press Return.
The VAXmate workstation displays a message
telling you how many bytes are available on the
hard disk. The numbers your VAXmate
workstation displays can be different. Follow
whichever instructions in step 5 that are
appropriate for your system.

1. Unlock the diskette drive and remove the MS-DOS
diskette.
2. Turn off the VAXmate workstation and go to the
Introduction in your System Administrator's documentation. Follow all the instructions carefully.

21277720 bytes total disk space
65536 bytes used by system
6291 bytes used by bad sectors
21205893 bytes available on disk

NOTE

If you have industry-standard options to

install in the expansion box, do so after you
install the server software. Go to Chapter 5,
Install Industry-Standard Options (page 5-1)
in this guide for instructions.
4-7

---------- - - - -

---------~--~---

IIIII Testing, Formatting, and Installing Software on the Hard Disk
Are you using the key diskette?

Install your key diskette software on the hard disk drive
as follows.
1. At operating system A> prompt type:

Install <Return>

The screen displays the name of each file as it is
copied onto the hard disk from the key diskette.
2. Type your password if the screen prompts you for
one. Then, press Return.

Find

GuBack

t:n!~'~' ... RI~f~,

Main Menu
Welcome to the Infot"lIlation Systelll. Hew users should read the UJ1,t'ltlate
Sj.ts~elfl HJntlIJook and then select the fi,"st topic froN the ",enu below.
F or He. Users:

. . . Getting Stal'ted With Your UAXJI1ate Workstation
G... erilll Topics:
r.> Desktop Applications

MS-Windows

[:>

ttotes Frorr! You,. System AdllIinistrator

C> Standard Applications
C> UT220 Terllinal Ellmlator
[> UT24B Ter.inal ElIWlator
•• uanced To"ic5:
C> Disks and Diskettes

C> MS-DOS Operating Systelfl
C> MS-DOS Operating System COflllllands

UAXlllate Hetwol"k

Trou.le Shoatiag:

When all the files and connections are complete,
the system displays a screen similar to the following screen. Do not do anything with this screen
until you are instructed to do so by your
VAXmate System Handbook.

This screen is the first screen of the Information
System, a software program that runs with
MS-Windows.

3. The expansion box and your software is now
installed. Go to What To Do Next on page 4-10.

4-8

mmmldM'''''
CODY Help

Booklllark

•

Systelll Messages

Testing, Formatting, and Installing Software on the Hard Disk

IIIII

Are you using the VAXmate S/A Install Diskette to
install a standalone system?

3. Remove the SjA Install diskette and store it with
the other diskettes in a safe place.

Instructions on the screens describe when to change
diskettes and which diskettes to use.

4. Reset the system by pressing the Ctrl, Alt, and
Del keys at the same time.

1. Follow the instructions carefully. It will take
about 25 minutes to install your software on the
hard disk.

The VAXmate workstation starts from the hard
disk drive and displays a screen similar to the one
shown here.

You will be prompted to insert the diskettes you
received with your standalone kit.

This is the first screen of the Information System,
a software program that runs under MS-Windows.
Do not do anything with this screen until you are
instructed to do so by your VAXmate System

NOTE

Make sure the diskette drive LED is off
before you remove a diskette. Also, make
sure the diskette write-protect notch faces
down, and that you lock the diskette drive.

Handbook.

5. The expansion box and your software is now
installed. Go to What to do Next.

2. Press any key when you are ready to continue.
The system automatically starts the diskette and
copies the files to the hard disk drive. When all
the files are copied onto the hard disk, the screen
prompts you for the next diskette. Wait for this
message before you change any diskette.
If you insert the wrong diskette, the screen

prompts you to insert the correct diskette.

Find

CoDack

GI~o~·.~;··'h~f:.;,

memlfMNllh"

Bookmark

Copy

Help

Main Nenu
Welcorrle to the Information System. New users should read the (JI1,1'PJJte
Sj.'sleRl HJndboOH and then select the first topic froPl the menu belo\.,.

For He. Users:

lID Getting Stat"ted With Your UAXnate Workstation
General Topics:
C> Desktop Applications

MS-Windows

[>
[>
[>

Hates Fro", Your System Administrator
Standard Applications
UT220 TerPlinal ElIlulator
UT240 Tet'Plinal ElllUlato,.

f.>
.dua.ced Topics:
C> Disks and Diskettes

L> MS-DOS Operating System

filS-DOS Operating Systelll COllJPlands

UAXlllate Het",o,.k

Traullie Shooting:

Systeln Messages

4-9

IIIII Testing, Formatting, and Installing Software on the Hard Disk
What to do Next
Are you installing the expansion box for the rust
time with no industry-standard options?
Go to Chapter 3, Working With MS-Windows, in your
VAXmate System Handbook. Follow the procedures in
order. Save this book for future reference.

Are you familiar with the VAXmate MS-Windows
software, and have no industry-standard options
to install?
1. Unlock the diskette drive and remove any diskette
from the diskette drive. Store your diskette in a
safe place.
2. Turn off the VAXmate workstation.

NOTE

The next time you turn on the VAXmate
workstation you do not need to use your key
diskette or standalone diskette. The VAXmate
workstation automatically starts from the
hard disk.

Are you installing the expansion box for the first
time and have industry-standard options to
install?
1. Unlock the diskette drive and remove any diskette
from the diskette drive.
2. Turn off the VAXmate workstation and go to
Chapter 5, Installing Industry-Standard Options
(page 5-1).

4-10

NOTE

The next time you turn on the VAXmate
workstation you do not need to use your key
diskette or standalone diskette. The VAXmate
workstation automatically starts from the
hard disk.

Chapter 5
Installing IndustryStandard Options in the
Expansion Box
This chapter describes how to install industry-standard options in the expansion box.
'~

CAUTION

Static electricity can damage the option boards. Avoid touching the
board components whenever possible.
Never install an option board, or combination of option boards, that use
more than 19 watts total. See your option documentation or sales representative for your option's wattage requirements.
Make sure the expansion box has been tested by running the extended selftest before you install any industry-standard options.
Run the extended self-test after you complete installing your option(s) (see
Chapter 6, Run Extended Self-Test after Reconnecting Expansion BOx).

5-1

IIIII Installing Industry-Standard Options in the Expansion Box
Is a modem installed in the VAXmate

workstation?
Run the system power-up test to test the modem, then
disable the modem power-up test as instructed in this
chapter. Chapter 7, Owner's Information, has an explanation, but you do not need to read that now.

Prepare the expansion box and VAXmate
workstation.
If a ThinWire Ethernet cable is connected to the
VAXmate workstation, tell your system administrator that
you are going to disconnect the T-connector from the
VAXmate workstation.

1. Remove any diskette from the drive.
LJ-0817

2. Make sure the VAXmate workstation power switch
is set to 0 (off).
3. Disconnect all cables from the VAXmate workstation and expansion box.

4. If present, remove the ThinWire Ethernet cable Tconnector from the back of the VAXmate workstation, but do not remove the ThinWire cable from
the T-connector.
WARNING

In the U.S. and Canada, if telephone cables
are connected to the VAXmate workstation,
first disconnect the telephone cable from the
wall, then, from the VAXmate workstation.

5-2

•

Installing Industry-Standard Options in the Expansion Box

IIIII

Separate the VAXmate workstation from the
expansion box .
1. Press down on the rear expansion box lock.
2. Gently pry up both rear corners of the VAXmate
workstation.
3. Press down on the two side expansion box locks.
4. Lift the VAXmate workstation straight up and set it
aside.
5. If you do not have a modem installed in the
VAXmate workstation, go to page 5-7 to continue.

5-3

11111 Installing Industry-Standard Options in the Expansion Box

Disable the modem power-up test.

2. Open the rear door.

1. Unlock the VAXmate workstation rear door.

•

.
'

5-4

Installing Industry-Standard Options in the Expansion Box

3. Remove the modem as follows.
a. If a memory option is also installed in the
VAXmate workstation, remove it before trying
to remove the modem.
b. Release the modem standoff and gently pull
the modem straight out.

IIIII

4. Move the modem jumper clip to pins 1 and 2 as
follows.
a. Use your finger or needle-nose pliers to
remove the jumper clip from pins 2 and 3.
Then, pull the jumper clip straight up.
b. Place the jumper over pins 1 and 2 and press
firmly into place.

LJ-0920

LJ·0921

5-5

IIIII Installing Industry-Standard Options in the Expansion Box
5. Install the modem in the VAXmate workstation as
follows.
a. If you have a memory option, install it after
you install the modem.

6. Close and lock the rear door.
WARNING

Do not operate this unit with the rear door
open.

b. Tip the upper edge of the modem into the
VAXmate workstation. Then, line up the connector and press firmly into place.

LJ-0996

LJ-0719

5-6

Installing Industry-Standard Options in the Expansion Box

Install options in the expansion box.

IIIII

3. Disconnect the hard disk drive cables from the
controller board.

1. Release the expansion box cover lock.
2. Lift the front edge of the cover, then lift off the
cover.

LJ-0820A

LJ-0819

5-7
--

_- - - - - - - - - - -..

IIIII Installing Industry-Standard Options in the Expansion Box
4. Tip the card cage on its back.

5. Install your industry-standard option in either
option slot.
6. Make sure the option connectors are firmly
installed.
7. Secure the option with the screw as shown.

l
I

LJ-0820

LJ·0821

5-8

Installing Industry-Standard Options in the Expansion Box

8. Tip the card cage back into place.
9. Connect the hard disk drive cables to the controller board.

IIIII

11. Connect the cable for your option (if present).
Follow the instructions provided with your option
to install the cable and any device shipped with
your option module.

10. Make sure the cable connectors are seated correctly on the pins .

.
-

LJ-0820AI

5-9
--- ---

----------

---------------

IIIII Installing Industry-Standard Options in the Expansion Box
12. If you installed an option cable, remove the cable
access plate from the top cover.

13. Replace the expansion box cover as follows.
a. Lower the back corners of the cover into the
groove on the back of the base.
b. Make sure the corners are seated correctly.
c. Make sure all the wires are inside the expansion box base so they do not interfere with the
cover and the tabs that stick up around the
perimeter of the base.
d. Lower the cover into place.
e. Make sure the cover lock latches.

L.J·Q824

LJ·OB19A

5-10

Installing Industry·Standard Options in the Expansion Box 11111

14. Hold the VAXmate workstation over the expansion
box and lower it onto the expansion box.

16. In the U.S. and Canada, connect any telephone
cables that you removed.

15. Press the VAXmate workstation firmly into place.
You should hear the expansion box click into
place.

First connect the telephone cable to the
VAXmate workstation, and then to the wall.

WARNING

17. Connect all cables except the ThinWire Ethernet
cable. You will be instructed to connect this
cable after you run the extended self-test.

LJ-OS178

18. Go to the next chapter to run the extended selftest.

5-11

Chapter 6
Running Extended SelfTest After Reconnecting
VAXmate Workstation
You must run the extended self-test every time you reconnect the expansion
box to the VAXmate workstation. You must toggle the power switch first, as
described in this chapter. This toggling sets a bit in the VAXmate workstation. You must also insert a formatted high-density diskette (your key or
MS-DOS diskette) in the diskette drive. If no diskette is present, the extended
self-test reports a problem with the diskette drive.
NOTE

The extended self-test does not test industry-standard options
installed in the expansion box.
CAUTION

Whenever you have industry-standard options installed in the
expansion box, make sure that the ThinWire Ethernet cable is NOT
connected to the VAXmate workstation when you run the extended
self-test.
Chapter 7, Owner's Information, has more information about the necessary
conditions for running the extended self-test, but you do not need to read
that information now.

6-1

11111 Running Extended Self-Test After Reconnecting VAXmate Workstation

Toggle the power switch.
1024 Kb

1. Set the VAXmate workstation power switch to 1
(on). The power·up test starts.
2. Set the power switch to 0 (oft) after about 15
seconds or when the test bar disappears and lines
flash on and off in the upper portion of the
screen. Chapter 7, Owner's Information has more
information about this procedure, but you do not
need to read that information now.
3. Insert a formatted high-density diskette in the diskette drive and lock the diskette drive.
4. Leave the power off for about 15 seconds and
then set the power switch to 1 (on).

Run the extended self-test.
You are ready to run the extended self-test when the
power-up test is complete and the red LED on the diskette drive goes off, or the screen displays the operating
system prompt (A».
1. Press the Ctrl, Alt, and Home keys at the same
time.
The extended self-test takes about five minutes to
run. When the extended self-test is complete, the
screen displays a list similar to the follOWing
screen.

6-2

1 OX
1 OD
L1

BA500
80287
PCSOX-MA
VSXXX-AA

LK250 01
27256 MQ/DA/VR

08-00-28-02-78-78

STANDARD MEMORY
DISKETTE DRIVE
HARD DISK DRIVE OPTION
LITHIUM BATTERY
EXPANSION BOX
MATH COPROCESSOR OPTION
MODEM OPTION
MOUSE
KEYBOARD VERSION NUMBER
ROM AND REVISION DATE
ETHERNET ADDRESS

2. To end the test, press any key. Do not follow any
instructions that might be displayed on the
screen.
If a VAXmate workstation option, the expansion
box, the hard disk drive, or the battery are not on
the list, turn your system off and back on, then
run the extended self-test again. If an option is
still missing, call your system administrator or
authorized service representative.
If the VAXmate workstation displayed a number,

see Chapter 8, Problem Solving (page 8-1).
3. Unlock the diskette drive and remove the diskette.
4. The option boards are now installed and the
extended self-test is complete. Go to What to do
Next (page 6-3).

IIIII

Running Extended Self-Test After Reconnecting VAXmate Workstation

What to do Next
Are diagnostics or checkout procedures provided
with your industry-standard option?
See the documentation provided with your option for
instructions. Then, return here.
Did you remove the ThinWire Ethernet cable
from the VAXmate workstation?
1. Reconnect the ThinWire Ethernet cable T-connector to the back of the VAXmate workstation. Do
not remove the ThinWire cable from the Tconnector.
2. Tell your system administrator that you reconnected the ThinWire Ethernet cable.
Is this the first time you are using the VAXmate
workstation and VAXmate MS-Windows software?
1. Press the Ctrl, Alt, and Del keys at the same time.
This restarts the VAXmate workstation from the
hard disk drive.

2. The DIGITAL logo is displayed followed by the
first Information System screen. Do not do anything at this screen until instructed to do so by
your VAXmate System Handbook.
3. Go to Chapter 3, Working With MS-Windows, in
your VAXmate System Handbook. Follow the
procedures in order. Save this book for reference.
Are you already familiar with the VAXmate
MS-Windows software?
1. If you want to use the VAXmate workstation now

a. Remove the diskette from the drive.
b. Stan the system from the hard disk by pressing
Ctrl, Alt, and Del at the same time.
2. If you want to continue at a later time, remove
the diskette from the drive and set the power
swi tch to 0 (off).
NOTE

The next time you turn on the VAXmate
workstation, it starts automatically from the
hard disk drive.

If you have a networked system, type a password

if the screen prompts you for it, then press
Return.

6-3

Chapter 7
Owner's Information
This chapter has information about the expansion box that you might need,
including the following topics.
•

Expansion box components

•

When to separate the expansion box
and VAXmate workstation

•

Expansion box LED

•

Partitioning the hard disk

•

Power requirements for
expansion box option
boards

•

Using a modem when you have an
expansion box

•

Expansion box battery

•

Using Industry-Standard Video Options

•

Toggling the power switch
and running extended selftest

•

Preventing hard disk problems

7-1

11111 Owner's Information

Expansion Box Components
The expansion box contains the following components.
• Hard disk drive
• Card cage with three option slots used as follows
Hard disk drive controller board (top slot)
Industry-standard options (bottom two slots)
• Power regulator that distributes power from the
VAXmate workstation to the expansion box card
cage and hard disk drive
• Light emitting diode (LED) on the power
regulator
• Battery for the VAXmate workstation event timer

Expansion Box LED
The expansion box has a green light emitting diode
(LED) that you can see through the left side air vents
(when facing the front) when power is applied to the
expansion box. When on, this LED indicates that the
expansion box is receiving power from the VAXmate
workstation. See Problem Solving if the LED fails to come
on.

7-2

Power Requirements for Expansion Box
Option Boards
The VAXmate workstation power supply and expansion
box power regulator provide a total of 28.5 watts of
power to the expansion box card cage, 9.5 watts per
option slot. The hard disk controller occupies the top
slot. A total of 19 watts is available for the industrystandard options you can install in the remaining two
option slots.
CAUTION

Never install option boards that exceed the
available expansion box wattage supply.
A single option or combination of industry-standard
options that needs more that 19 watts can:

• Damage the expansion box or option board connectors and circuitry.
• Blow the VAXmate workstation fuse.
• Burn out the VAXmate workstation power supply.
See your option documentation or sales representative to
determine the wattage requirements for the industrystandard options that you want to install.

Owner's In/ormation

Expansion Box Battery
The expansion box battery provides power for the
VAXmate workstation time of day clock and event timer.
For the VAXmate workstation to recognize the presence
of the battery, you must toggle the power switch to reset
a bit in the VAXmate workstation. Then, you must run the
extended self-test to register the battery and expansion
box with the VAXmate workstation.

Toggling the Switch and Running the
Extended Self-Test
1. Turn the VAXmate workstation power switch on
and wait about 15 seconds, or until the video test
begins. (The test bar disappears and lines flash on
and off on the upper portion of the screen.)

IIIII

4. Set the VAXmate workstation power switch to 1
(on).
When the power-up test is complete, run the
extended self-test by pressing Ctrl, Alt, and
Home at the same time (also see page 6-2).
A formatted, high-density diskette must be in the diskette
drive, otherwise, the system screen displays a error
number.
When an industry-standard option is installed in the
expansion box, you must disconnect the ThinWire
Ethernet T-connector from the VAXmate workstation
before you run the extended self-test. This lets the
extended self-test complete correctly. Remember to
reconnect the T-connector when you are done testing.
See Using Industry-Standard Video Options in this chapter for more information.

2. Set the VAXmate workstation power switch to off
and wait about 15 seconds. This lets the disk
drives spin down.
3. Insert a formatted high-density diskette in the diskette drive. You can use your key diskette or
MS-DOS diskette.

7-3

IIIII Owner's Information
When to Separate the VAXmate Workstation
and Expansion Box
Separate the VAXmate workstation and expansion box
whenever the following conditions occur. Always run
the extended self-test when you reinstall the expansion
box.
• You want to move the VAXmate workstation and
expansion box to a new location. The VAXmate
workstation and expansion box together weigh
44.5 lb (20.1 kg). If you have a networked system, tell your system administrator that you are
disconnecting the T-connector from the VAXmate
workstation.
• You want to install an industry-standard option in
the expansion box.
• You need to replace the VAXmate workstation
fuse.
• You want to install an integral modem and have
industry-standard options installed in the expansion box. See Using the Integral Modem When
You Have an Expansion Box.

Partitioning the Hard Disk
You can divide the hard disk into up to four partitions.
Partitions make it easier for you to organize information
stored on your hard disk.

7-4

DIGITAL requires only one partition on the hard disk for
standalone systems. DIGITAL recommends only one partition for other systems.
You can check the size and label of the partitions on your
hard disk by starting the FDISK utility. The first screen
displays the size and label of the current partitions.
Pressing the 8 key exits you from this utility.
See your Information System or VAXmate User's Guide
for more information about partitioning and formatting
your hard disk.

Using the Integral Modem When You Have an
Expansion Box
When you have an integral modem and expansion box,
some industry-standard options can cause the modem
power-up tests to malfunction or prevent you from using
both the modem and the option. These industry-standard
options use the same expansion ROM address space in
the VAXmate workstation as the modem. The address
space is OCOOOOH through OEFFFFH.
DIGITAL recommends that you disable the modem
power-up tests whenever you install any industry-standard option in the expansion box. It might be difficult to
tell if the option uses the same expansion ROM address
space.
You can disable the modem power-up tests by moving a
jumper on the modem module.

Owner's Information

Modem Jumper Location and Setting
The modem jumper on the upper left corner of the board
lets you enable and disable the modem power-up tests.
The factory configuration of the jumper (pins 2 and 3)
enables all tests.
Setting the jumper to pins 1 and 2 disables the modem
power up test. The jumper setting does not affect modem
tests that you can run by using the modem test commands described in the VAXmate Modem User's Guide.
This guide is shipped with the modem.

Using Industry-Standard Video Options
Some industry-standard video options contain on-board
firmware that substitutes its own interrupt vectors for
the normal VAXmate INT lOH interrupt vectors during
testing.
You can help avoid problems during testing by removing
the ThinWire Ethernet cable T-connector from the back
of the VAXmate workstation when you run the extended
self-test.
DIGITAL recommends that you always disconnect the
ThinWire T-connector whenever you run the extended
self-test with any industry-standard options installed in
the expansion box. It might be difficult to tell if the
option firmware interfered with the VAXmate firmware.

IIIII

If you install one of these industry-standard video
options in the expansion box, the VAXmate diagnostics
do not test it. The VAXmate workstation display of diagnostic progress and results might be difficult or impossible to interpret. This display can vary from a totally blank
screen to a frozen screen of information, depending on
the type of video option and the history of operations
performed.
The following list describes some test results you might
see when you have video options that emulate a monochrome display, a color graphics display, or a combination monochrome/color display.
Monochrome Display
• During the power-up test, the test bar appears
normal on the VAXmate workstation screen.
• During the extended self-test, the VAXmate workstation displays the test bar and configuration list.
The configuration list remains on the screen until
you turn off the VAXmate workstation.
Color Graphics Display
The power-up test and extended self-test disable the
VAXmate workstation video and try to use the option.
Because all diagnostic displays use INT lOH functions,
the test results depend on how the option responds to
commands from the VAXmate firmware.

7-5

IIIII Owner's In/ormation
Monochrome/Color Graphics Display
The power-up test and extended self-test disable the
VAXmate workstation video and try to use the option's
graphic functions. The test results depend on how the
option responds to commands from the VAX mate
firmware.

Preventing Hard Disk Problems
Use the following guidelines to help prevent problems
with your hard disk drive.
• Backup all files on the hard disk on a regular
basis by using the back-up command. Also keep a
backup copy on diskette(s) to recover information
in the case of accidental loss. See your Information System or VAXmate User's Guide for
instructions.
• Do not switch the system off while you are editing or entering text on the hard disk. You might
lose information.
• Back up all files on the hard disk if you want to
change partition size.
• Static electricity can add extra characters or garble the text on your hard disk. Help prevent static
electricity by using antistatic mats around the
VAXmate workstation.

7-6

Chapter 8
Problem Solving
Use the tables in this Chapter to help isolate a problem when you are installing or using the hard disk drive, or when you have options installed in the
VAXmate system unit.
Table 1 lists symptoms, their probable cause, and possible solutions. Table 2
lists some power-up test messages, their probable cause, and possible
solutions.
In all cases, if you can not solve the problem, run the extended self-test to
try to isolate the problem. Then, call your system administrator or authorized
service representative for help. Note any symptoms and messages that the
VAX mate workstation displays.

8-1

IIIII Problem Solving
Problem Solving by Using Symptoms
Problems can occur that are not isolated by the VAXmate workstation powerup test. Use Table 1 to help solve problems related to the expansion box.
Table 1 Symptoms
Symptom

Probable Cause

Solution

Expansion box LED did
not come on.

Expansion box and
workstation are not
connected correctly.

Press down firmly on the back
of the VAXmate workstation.

Fuse is blown due to
excessive wattage of industry-standard option
board.

Remove industry-standard option
and replace the fuse (see your

Thermal shut down occurred.

Allow the VAXmate workstation
to cool a few minutes. Make
sure all vents are not obstructed
and that the temperature of the
room does not exceed 90 F
(ISO C).

VAXmate System Handbook).

System does not start
and system LED is off.

8-2

Power cord is unplugged or no power exists
at outlet.

Firmly connect the power cable.
Test wall outlet with a lamp if
necessary.

Fuse is blown.

Separate the VAXmate and expansion box. Replace the fuse
(see your VAXmate System
Handbook). Press the VAXmate
firmly onto the expansion box.

Problem Solving 11111
Table 1 Symptoms (cont.)
Symptom

Probable Cause

Solution

Expansion box option
board(s) exceeds the
wattage limit of the expansion box option
slots and blew the fuse.

The total wattage limit of the
expansion box option slots is 19
watts. Check your option board
manuals or consult your sales
representative. Remove the appropriate board and replace the
fuse. Do not remove the hard
disk controller.

Power is on but screen
remains blank.

Expansion box might
not be fully connected.

Press down firmly on the
VAXmate workstation to correctly connect the expansion box. If
the problem persists, call your
system administrator or service
representative.

Screen displays the
number 83.

Hard disk is newly installed and not formatted.

Run the FDISK and FORMAT
utilities from the MS-DOS operating system.

Screen displays a number begining with 4, 5,
7,8, or 9.

An option is loosely

Firmly connect the option and
any option cables. See Table 2
to identify the option.

Power is on but system
does not start from the
hard disk.

Diskette is in the diskette drive.

Unlock the drive and remove
the diskette. Then, press Ctrl,
Alt, and Del at the same time.

There is no software on
the partition.

Install software on the partition
hard disk. See your Information
System, VAXmate User's Guide,
or system administrator.

Requested partition
does not exist or is not
formatted.

Start the FDISK utility and check
the partitions. Format the partition. Repartition if necessary.

connected.

8-3

IIIII Problem Solving
Table 1 Symptoms (cont.)
Symptom

Probable Cause

Solution

Hard disk cannot read
or write information.

Problem exists with the
disk drive or drive controller.

Call your system administrator
or authorized service representative for help.

Hard disk works but
produces extra characters or garbled text.

Hard disk is affected by
static electricity

Move system away from any motors, magnetic devices, or
photocopiers.
Increase the humidity in the
room and use antistatic mats
around the system.

Software that has a time
of day clock does not
work or does not record the time.

Expansion box and
VAXmate workstation
have been separated
and the extended selftest was not run.

Toggle the power switch and
then run the extended self-test
from the MS-DOS operating system.

You can not use an option installed in expansion box and a modem
is present.

The modem diagnostic
jumper is enabled.

Move the modem jumper clip
from pins two and three to pins
one and two. See pages 5-4 5-6 for directions

Extended self-test displays the message 43.

No Diskette is in drive,
or diskette is not a
formatted high-density
diskette.

Make sure to use a formatted
high-density diskette.

Problem Solving by Using Power-up Test Numbers
Table 2 lists actions you can take if certain numbers appear on the screen
during the power-up self test. The number remains on the screen until you
request a system function, such as displaying the directory. As the directory
scrolls onto the screen, the number scrolls off the top of the screen.
8-4

Problem Solving

Table 2

11111

Power-Up Test Numbers

Number

Probable Cause

Solution

0-40

VAXmate CPU or IjO problem

Call your authorized service representative.

40 - 46

Nonformatted diskette,
drive not locked, or diskette
inserted wrong.

Use a formatted diskette, insert with
notch facing down, and lock the
drive. Then, restart the system.

50 - 52

Memory option board is
loose.

Reset the memory option board.
Then, restart the system.

Keyboard cable is loose; or
something is pressing on
the keyboard during selftest.

Turn off the system. Firmly connect
the keyboard cable. Then restart the
system.

70 - 82

Problem might be with hard
disk drive or hard disk controller.

Turn off, then turn on the system. If
the problem perSists, call your system administrator or authorized service representative.

Hard disk drive is present,
but not formatted.

Turn off, then turn on the system.
Run the extended power-up test and
then the FDISK and FORMAT utilities.

84 - 86

Problem might be with hard
disk drive or hard disk controller.

Turn off, then turn on the system. If
problem perSiSts, call your system
administrator or authorized service
representative.

Hard disk drive is present,
but not formatted.

Turn off, then turn on the system.
Run the extended power-up test and
then the FDISK and FORMAT utilities.

90 - 99 and

Modem option board or
telephone cables are loose.

Reset the modem option board.
Firmly connect telephone cables,
then restart the system.

8-5

Appendix A

Thin Wire Ethernet Cable
Guidelines
ThinWire Ethernet cable is used to connect your VAXmate workstation to a
computer network managed by your system administrator. Your system
administrator might ask you to remove your ThinWire cable from your
VAXmate workstation from time to time when network testing is necessary.
Use the guidelines in this appendix whenever you handle ThinWire Ethernet
cable. The following illustration shows the parts of the ThinWire Ethernet
cable.

TO WORKSTATION

.....

,r ~ 'IT_CONNECTOR~'' ~
I

ThinWire J I
SECTION

-........-=::

BNC CONNECTOR

\.\.......L

"'""Am

caJ) ..'la'

BNC CONNECTOR

...l-

')~.. ~

BARREL CONNECTOR
LJ-l001

A-J

IIIII ThinWire Ethernet Cable Guidelines
Handling ThinWire Ethernet Cable

2. Connect the other end of the ThinWire Ethernet
cable to a DIGITAL DECconnect wall or faceplate.

Installation

NOTE
If a DIGITAL DECconnect wall or faceplate is

1. Always connect the stem of the ThinWire cable
T-connector to the back of the VAXmate workstation as follows.
a. Match the slots of the T-connector with the
posts on the network connector on the back of
the VAXmate workstation.
b. Push the stem of the T-connector onto the network connector and turn the etched part
clockwise.

LJ·l000

A-2

not present, ask your system administrator
for instructions. Do not connect this end of
the ThinWire cable anywhere else without
more information.

BllIIIII

Thin Wire Ethernet Cable Guidelines

Removal

IIIII

General Rules

1. Turn the etched part of the T-connector stem
counterclockwise.
2. Remove the T-connector from the back of the

VAXmate workstation. Do not disassemble the Tconnector. Doing so causes the network to
malfunction.

• Never remove a ThinWire cable from a Tconnector unless your system administrator
tells you to do so.
• Never remove a terminator from aT-connector
unless your system administrator tells you to do
so.
• Never remove the T-connector from the
VAXmate workstation until you tell your system
administrator you are going to do so.
• Never remove a ThinWire cable from a barrel
connector unless your system administrator
tells you to do so.

CORRECT

INCORRECT

A-3

Index

A
Add a partition
choosing size, 4-5
selecting, 4-5
Adjustments
brightness, screen, 3-6
contrast, screen, 3-6
Air space, 1-3
B
Blank screen
corrective procedure, 3-6
getting help, 3-6
Blinking cursor
cQrrective procedure, 3-6
getting help, 3-6
Brightness control
adjusting, 3-6
location, 3-6

C
Cables
connecting, 2-4
expansion box access slot, 5-10
hard disk controller, 5-7, 5-9
industry-standard, 5-9
power cord, CAUTION, 1-2
removing, 2-2, 5-2
telephone, 2-2, 5-2
WARNING, 5-11
ThinWire Ethernet, 1-2, A-I - A-3
connecting, 2-4
removing, 2-2, 5-2
when not to connect, 5-11
Card cage
expansion box, 5-8
option installation, 5-8
option slots, 5-8, 7-2

Index-}

11111 Index
CAUTION
definition, vi
FDISK utility, 1-2,4-1,4-4
FORMAT utility, 1-2,4-1,4-6
power cord, 1-2
static electricity, 5-1
ThinWire Ethernet cable, 6-1
wattage requirements, 7-2
Commands
extended self-test, 4-2, 6-2
FDISK command format, 4-4
FORMAT command format, 4-6
reset system, 4-6
Configuration list, 4-3, 6-2
Contrast control
adjusting, 3-6
location, 3-6
Cover
removal, 5-7
replacing, 5-10
D
Determine system type, 1-2
Diagnostics, See Testing
Diskette
for extended self-test, 4-2, 6-1
handling, 3-2
high density
use in extended self-test, 4-2, 6-1
when to use, 7-3
locating, 3-1
parts of, 3-2
write-protect notch, 3-2
write-protect tab, 3-2
Diskette drive
inserting diskettes, 3-2
locking, 3-2

Index-2

E
Exit from FDISK utility
restarting system, 4-5
selecting, 4-5
Expansion box
air space, 1-2
battery
discussion, 7-3
power switch use, 7-3
cable access slot, 5-10
card cage, 5-8
components, 7-2
controller cable
connecting, 5-9
removal, 5-7
cover
removal,5-7
replacing, 5-10
data present, CAUTION, 1-2, 4-1
description, 1-2
FDISK utility, 4-1, 4-4
FORMAT utility, 4-1
WARNING,4-6
handling, 1-2
how to remove, 5-3
industry-standard options, 5-1 - 5-11
installation procedure, 2-1 - 2-4
installing software, 4-1, 4-7 - 4-10
LED, 1-2, 7-2
locks, 2-4, 5-3
parts of, 1-1
preparing for testing, 3-3, 3-4
problem solving, LED, 8-2, 8-3
removing, 1-3, 5-3, 7-4
testing, 4-1

Index

Extended self-test
command format, 4-2, 6-2
configuration list, 4-3, 6-2
displays, 4-3
exit, 4-3
function, 4-2
guidelines, 4-2
high density diskette, 7-3
industry-standard option present, 6-2
ThinWire cable, 7-3
preparing expansion box, 3-3, 3-4
problem solving, 8-4
procedure, 4-2 - 4-3
ThinWire Ethernet cable, 5-11
CAUTION, 6-1
time for completion, 4-2, 6-2
toggle power switch
procedure, 6-2, 7-3
when, 6-1, 7-3
Video option present, 7-5, 7-6
F
FDISK utility
See also each menu selection
before you begin, 4-1
CAUTION, 1-2, 4-1, 4-4
command format, 4-4
main menu
selection sequence, 4-4
when displayed, 4-4, 4-5
procedure, 4-4 - 4-6
selections, 4-4 - 4-6
Floppy disk, See diskette
Floppy drive, See diskette drive

IIIII

FORMAT utility
See also volume label
before you begin, 4-1
CAUTION, 1-2,4-1,4-6
command format, 4-6
function, 4-6
procedure, 4-6 - 4-7
/S function, 4-6
start-up partition, 4-6
volume label, 4-7
warning message, 4-6
H

Hard disk drive
See also partition
cable removal, 5-7
CAUTION,

data present, 1-2,4-1,4-4
controller location, 7-2
extended self-test, 4-2
FDISK utility, 4-4 - 4-6
FORMAT utility, 4-6
initialize, 4-4
partition, 4-5, 7-4
preparing, 6-1
preventing problems, 7-6
problem solving, 8-3
set drive type, 4-4
starting from, 4-10
storage capaCity, 1-2
High density diskette
use in extended self-test, 4-2, 6-1
what to use, 4-2, 6-1
when to use, 7-3

Index-3

/1111 Index
I
Industry-standard option
See also Video options
cables, 5-9
checkout procedures, 6-3
example, 1-1
extended self-test, 6-1
modem present, 5-2, 5-4 - 5-5
address space used, 7-4
symptoms, 7-4
option slots
damage, 7-2
wattage, 7-2
preparing to install, 5-2
problem solving
modem present, 8-4
time of day clock, 8-4
run diagnostics, 6-3
test, 7-5
ThinWire Ethernet cable
CAUTION, 6-1
connecting, 6-3
video options, 7-5 - 7-6
wattage requirements, 5-1, 7-2
Information system
display, 4-8, 4-9
what to do next, 4-8, 4-10
Initialize hard disk, 4-4
Installation
connecting expansion box, 2-3 - 24,5-11
expansion box cover, 5-10

Index-4

guidelines, 1-2 - 1-3
industry-standard options, 1-1,4-10,
5-1 - 5-11
cable, 5-9
option board, 5-8
preparation for, 2-2
procedure, 2-1 - 2-4
software procedures, 4-7 - 4-10
ThinWire Ethernet cable, 2-4
time needed, 1-2
VAXmate server, 3-1
workstation options, 2-4
K
Key diskette
preparing, 3-1
software installation, 4-7
start-up screen, 3-3
using precaution, 4-1
what to do at A>, 3-3
when not to use, 4-10
where to get, 3-1
Keyboard, keys to use
extended self-test, 4-2, 6-2
restarting system, 4-6
L
Label, See volume label
LED, See Light emitting diode
Light emitting diode
function, 1-2, 7-2
location, 1-2, 7-2
problem solving, 8-2, 8-3

Index
M
Memory option, removal, 5-5
Modem option
address space used, 7-4
how to test, 7-5
installation, 5-6
jumper settings, 5-5, 7-5
power-up test
disable, 5-4 - 5-6, 7-5
enable, 7-5
precaution, 5-1
problem solving, 8-4
removal, 5-5
when to install, 7-4
when to test, 7-4
MS-DOS diskette
stan-up screen, 3-1, 3-4
used by system administrator, 3-1
what to do at lv, 3-4

N
Networked system
exit FDISK utility, 4-5
exit FORMAT utility, 4-7
extended self-test
precaution, 4-3
FDISK utility, 4-4 - 4-6
identification, 1-2
installation guidelines, 1-2 - 1-3
key diskette, 3-1
passwords, 3-1
software installation, 4-7
start-up screen
precaution, 4-1
stan-up screen, 3-3
staning, 3-1 - 3-3
from hard disk, 4-10
what to do at lv, 3-3
wrong key diskette, 3-3

IIIII

NOTE, definition, vi
Number display
corrective procedure, 3-5
getting help, 3-3
problem solving, 8-2 - 8-5

o
Option slots
number available, 7-2
wattage requirements, 7-2

p
Panition
See also add a partition
See also set start up panition
choosing size, 7-4
how to check size, 7-4
number of, 7-4
procedure, 4-5
Password
use of, 3-1
Power regulator
function, 7-2
location, 7-2
Power switch
CAUTION, 1-2
toggling, 6-2, 7-3
Power-up test
blank screen, 3-3
corrective procedure, 3-6
blinking cursor, 3-3
corrective procedure, 3-6
getting help, 3-3, 3-5 - 3-6
number display, 3-3
corrective procedure, 3-5
test bar display, 3-3
Video option present, 7-5, 7-6

Index-5

IIIII Index
Preparing a workstation, 2-2
Preparing the expansion box
FDISK utility, 4-4
FORMAT utility, 4-6
install system software, 4-7 - 4-10
Problem solving
blank screen, 3-6
blinking cursor, 3-6
by symptom, 8-2 - 8-4
general procedure, 8-1
LED, 8-2, 8-3
number display, 3-5, 8-3, 8-5
screen blank, 8-3
start industry-standard option, 8-4
starting hard disk, 8-3
starting modem, 8-4
time of day clock, 8-4
R
Reset system
after extended self-test, 6-3
after FDISK utility, 4-6
after FORMAT utility, 4-7
after software installed, 4-9

S
Screen display
configuration list, 4-3, 6-2
extended self-test, 4-3, 6-2
Extra characters, 8-4
FDISK main menu, 4-4
FORMAT utility, 4-6, 4-7
information system, 4-8, 4-9
initialize hard disk warning, 4-4
invalid password, 4-8
numbers, 8-3
power-up test, 3-3
software installation, 4-9

Index-6

start-up screen
MS-DOS diskette, 3-4
networked system, 3-3
standalone system, 3-4
video options, 7-5, 7-6
Set drive type
function, 4-4
selecting, 4-4
Set start-up partition
See also FORMAT utility
function, 4-5
main menu display, 4-4 .
selecting, 4-5
Software
after all installed, 4-10
information system display, 4-8, 4-9
installation
networked system, 4-8
standalone system, 4-9 - 4-10
VAXmate server, 4-7
Standalone diskette
start-up screen, 3-4
what to do at lv, 3-4
when not to use, 1-2
Standalone system
diskette to use, 3-1
exit FDISK utility, 4-5
exit FORMAT utility, 4-6
FDISK utility, 4-4 - 4-6
identification, 1-2
installation guidelines, 1-2 - 1-3
software installation, 4-9 - 4-10
diskettes to use, 4-9
start-up screen, 3-4
starting, 3-1 - 3-4
from hard disk, 4-10
.unable to create directory, 4-9

Index 11111
Start-up screen
key diskette, 3-3
MS-DOS, 3-4
standalone diskette, 3-4
Starting the system
See also networked system
See also power-up test
See also Standalone system
See also system administrator
from diskette, 3-1 - 3-6
from hard disk drive, 4-10
getting help, 3-3
networked system, 3-1 - 3-3
power-up test, 3-3
procedure, 3-1 - 3-6
standalone system, 3-1 - 3-4
system administrator, 3-1
Static electricity
CAUTION, 5-1
extra characters display, 8-4
System administrator
See also VAXmate server
exit FORMAT utility, 4-6
extended self-test, run, 4-2 - 4-3
FDISK utility, 4-4 - 4-8
industry-standard options, 4-7
software installation, 4-7
starting the system, 3-1 - 3-4
what to do at A>, 3-4
System weight, 1-3, 2-3
System will not start, 8-2, 8-3

T
Telephone cable, 2-2, 5-2, 5-11
Test bar display, 3-3
Testing
See also extended self-test
See also power-up test
See also problem solving
before you begin, 4-1
extended self-test, 4-2 - 4-3
Industry-standard option, 6-3
preparing expansion box, 3-3, 3-4
when to, 1-3
ThinWire Ethernet cable, A-I - A-3
and system administrator, 2-2, 5-2
connect faceplate, A-2
connect workstation, A-2
connecting, 1-2, 2-4, 6-3, A-2
guidelines, A-I - A-3
handling, A-2
industry-standard option, 7-3
parts of, A-I
precaution, 7-3
removal, 2-2, 5-2, A-3
rules, A-3
when not to connect, 5-11
Time of day clock
does not work
extended self test, 8-4
problem solving, 8-4
Troubleshooting, See problem solving

Index-7

11111 Index
U
Unable to create directory
standalone system, 4-9
what to do, 4-9
Users of this guide
conventions used, vi
definition, v
when to use, vi

v
VAXjVMS server
identification, 1-2
VAXmate options
installation, sequence, v
VAXmate server
diskette to use, 3-1
identification, 1-2
software installation, 4-7
VAXmate system unit
fuse, replacing, 7-4
moving
expansion box, 7-4
run extended self-test, 7-4
rear door
lock, 5-6
unlock,5-4
WARNING, 5-6
Video options
color graphicS display, 7-5, 7-6
extended self-test, 7-5, 7-6
interrupt vectors, 7-5
monochrome display, 7-5, 7-6
screen displays, 7-5, 7-6

Index-8

Volume label
choosing no label, 4-7
number of characters, 4-7

W
WARNING
definition, vi
system weight, 1-3
telephone cables, 2-2, 5-2
VAXmate system rear door, 5-6
workstation operation, 1-3
.
Wattage requirements
CAUTION, 7-2
option slots, 5-1, 7-2
possible damage, 7-2
What to do next
after extended self-test, 6-3
after software installed, 4-10
Winchester disk drive, See hard disk
drive
Write-protect notch
location, 3-2
position, 3-2
tab, 3-2

EK-RCD31-0M-002