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EK-TUA81-UG-CN1

1985

141 pages

Original

8.6MB

Document:	-002 TU81-TA81 Tape Subsystem Users Guide 1985
Order Number:	EK-TUA81-UG
Revision:	CN1
Pages:	141
Original Filename:	EK-TUA81-UG-002_TU81-TA81_Tape_Subsystem_Users_Guide_1985.pdf

OCR Text

EK-TUA81-UG-002

TU81/TA81 Tape

Subsystem
User's Guide

EK-TOA81-0G-CN1

TECHNICAL DOCUMENTATION
CHANGE NOTICE

T081/TA81 TAPE SUBSYSTEM
USER'S GUIDE
ADDENDUM
EK-TUASl-UG-002

digital equipment corporation • maynard, massachusetts

Refer to the following instructions for incorporating new and
revised information into the TU81/TA81 Tape Subsystem User's
Guide.
Page 5-21 M8739 Module Address Selection
Insert the following paragraphs at the end of the SYSGEN
procedure.
Installing Additional UNIBUS Adapters (M8739)
The M8739 module is factory configured to 772150(8). This
address is for a primary MSCP tape/disk used on a system.
For the first TU81 in a system, the M8739 module must be set to
address 774500(8), as shown in Figure 5-16. To install
additional M8739 modules, you must select an address for each
module from the floating device address range. This range
includes addresses from 760010(8) through 763776(8).
The module's vector is set by software.
To configure a module for installation in a VAX system, use the
SYSGEN procedure on page 5-21 to determine the module's
address.
To configure a module for installation in a PDP-11 system,
follow these guidelines to determine the module's address.
Choosing an address from the floating address range is a
process of finding a value called "nnn," and adding that value
to a base address of 760000. Since the smallest nnn value that
can be used is 010, the range of addresses begins at 760010.
To determine an nnn value, and then produce an address from the
floating address range (760010 through 763776), list all
modules to be installed in the system that need floating
addresses.
Look for these modules on the following ranking chart. The size
column lists a number of words (in decimal), and the modulus
column lists a number of bytes (in octal). Also, the modulus
column must be used as a number that the nnn value of the
address is divisible by -- that is, nnn can be divided by the
modulus value and the result is a whole number. The examples
following the table show how the modulus is used.

Rank

Device

Size

Octal
Modulus

1
2

DJll
DHll
DQll
DUll,DUVll
DUPll

4
8
4
4
4

10
20
10
10
10

9
10

LKllA
DMCll/DMRll
DZll/DZVll, DZSll, DZ32
KMCll
LPPll

4
4
4
4
4

10
10
10
10
10

11
12
13
14
15

VMV21
VMV31
DWR70
RLll, RLVll
LPAll-K

4
8
4
4
8

10
20
10
10
20

16
17
18
19
20

KWll-C
Reserved
RX11/RX211, RXV11/RXV21
DRll-W
DRll-B

4
4
4
4
4

10
10
10
10
10

21
22
23
24
25

DMPll
DPVll
ISBll
DMVll
DEUNA

4
4
4
8
4

10
10
10
20
10

26
27
28
29
30

UDA50, RQDXl, RUC25, RUX50
DMF32
KMSll
VSlOO
TU81

2
16
6
8
2

4
40
20
20
4

31
32
33
34

KMVll
DHVll, DHUll
DMZ32, CPI (asynch)
CPI32 (synch)

8
8
16
16

20
20
40
40

4
5
6
7
8

For example, the first floating CSR address is 760010 and the
first device in the chart is the DJll. If you have a DJll, its CSR
address is 760010. If you don't have a DJll, address 760010 must
be left blanK, that is, cannot be assigned to any device.
If you have a DJll, assign it the address of 760010. The size
column in the chart indicates that the module's size is 4 words (8
bytes). This requires addresses 760010 through 760016. The next
available address is then 760020.
3

If you have a second DJll, assign it address 760020. There are two
reasons for this assignment.
1.

Since the first DJll is assigned address 760010 and its
size requires 4 words, it uses addresses 760010 through
760016 (4 word locations). That makes the next available
address 760020.

The DJll, according to the chart, has a modulus of 10.
The rule states that the nnn value of the address to be
used must be divisible by the modulus. For address
760020, the nnn value is 020 -- this number is divisible
by 10 and results in a whole number (2).

If you don't have a second DJll, address 760020 can not be
assigned to any device. This address must be left vacant to let
the system know that there is not a second DJll occupying a
location in the floating address range. Since 760020 must be left
vacant, 760022 is the next available address in the floating
address range. The vacancy of 760020 indicates that there are no
more DJlls.
Note that the next available address (760022) has nothing to do
with how many addresses a second DJll require IF one is present.
Only one address needs to be left vacant to indicate that there is
no second DJll installed. As already stated, the vacant address
must be 760020.
NOTE
This is the key to assigning addresses
from the floating range. Just as a
response from an address identifies to
the system what kind of device is
present, a vacant address identifies
what kind of device is not present.
"Gaps" (unused addresses) must be left
to tell the system which devices are NOT
present.
The next device on the list is the DHll, which is listed with
a modulus of 20. The next available address (that we left off
with earlier in our example) is 760022. The nnn field of 022
cannot be used for the DHll, since 22 cannot be divided by
20. In fact, the next nnn field that can be used is 040. So,
to install a DHll into this system, its address would be set
to 760040. Since the size listed for the DHll is 8 (words),
the DHll uses addresses 760040 through 760056, making the
next available address 760060.
If you do not install a DHll into this system, address 760040
has to stay vacant. This makes 760042 the next available
address.

Another example - one that applies to the T081.
Suppose you have three options that require floating
addresses: one DZll and two TU81 subsystems.
Determine the list of addresses that would be vacant, and the
addresses these modules would use. See if your answer agrees
with the following list (vacant addresses are listed with the
corresponding "missing module" that they represent).
760010 Vacant (DJll)
760020 Vacant (DHll)*
760030 Vacant (DQll)
760040 Vacant (DUll,DUVll)
760050 Vacant (DUPll)
760060 Vacant (LKllA)
760070 Vacant (DMCll/DMRll)
760100 Setting for the DZll module
760110 Vacant (no additional DZll)
760120 Vacant (KMCll)
760130 Vacant (LPPll)
760140 Vacant (VMV21)
760160 Vacant (VMV31)*
760170 Vacant (DWR70)
760200 Vacant (RLll)
760220 Vacant (LPAll-K)*
760230 Vacant (KWll-C)
760240 Vacant (Reserved)
760250 Vacant (RXll)
760260 Vacant (DRll-W)
760270 Vacant (DRll-B)
760300 Vacant (DMPll)
760310 Vacant (DPVll)
760320 Vacant (ISBll)
760340 Vacant (DMVll)*
760350 Vacant (DEUNA)
760354 Vacant (UDA50)*
760400 Vacant (Dr-fF32T*
760420 Vacant (KMSll)*
760440 Vacant (VSlOO)*
760444 Setting for a TU81 subsystem*
760450 Setting for another TU81 subsystem*

* Indicates addresses for devices where the modulus is NOT
10. Don't forget that the nnn value of the address that you
select must be divisible by that device's modulus to produce
a whole number.
Since these addresses include all the devices to be added for
our example, all remaining addresses in the floating range
are vacant.
5

Page 5-23 M8739 Module Installation
Repla~e

step 9 with the

~ollowing.

Carefully insert the M8739 module into the SPC slot, as
shown in the SPC Module Installation figure.

WARNING
Make sure that the module is installed
in backplane connector rows C, D, E, and
F. Installing the module in any other
connector rows will damage the module.

/
FRONT

SPC Module Installation

Page 5-32

PDP-11-Based Diagnostics

Delete the note under PDP-11-Based Diagnostics and insert the
following paragraphs.
PDP-11 XXDP+ Diagnostics -- CZTU2, CZTUl
CZTU2 is the TU81 Front End Functional Diagnostic. This diagnostic
is the first host level diagnostic run, since it tests the basic
functionality of the TU81 subsystem.
CZTU2 tests up to four TU81 subsystems. To run a full pass of the
program, a scratch tape must be mounted on the transport and an
operator must be present to perform manual intervention.
The first pass of the program is a quick verify. For a single unit
under test, the first pass takes about 20 minutes. All following
passes run multiple iterations of each test listed. These passes
each take about 24 minutes for a single unit under test.
CZTU2
Test 001:
Test 002:
Test 003:
Test 004:
Test 005:
Test 006:
Test 007:
Test 008:
Test 009:
Test 010:
Test 011:
Test 012:
Test 013:

Existence Verification
Initialization
Initialization
SA Register Wrap
Vector and BR Level
Purge and Poll
Small Ring
Maximum Ring Buffer
Get DUST Status
Functional Fault Detection (Internal Drive Test 1)
Tension Fault Isolation (Internal Drive Test 2)
Velocity Fault Isolation (Internal Drive Test 3)
Select A Drive Resident (Internal Drive Tests 1
99)

CZTUl is the TU81 Data Reliability Test. This diagnostic tests the
performance quality of the TU81 subsystem.
CZTUl tests up to four TU81 subsystems. A scratch tape must be
mounted on the transport to run this test. Each pass takes about 1
hour and 10 minutes for each unit under test.

CZTUl
Test 001:
Test 002:
Test 003:
Test 004:
Test 005:
Test 006:
Test 007:

Basic Function
Quick Verify Read/Write
Complex Read/Write
Write Interchange Tape
Read Unknown Tape
Start/Stop Write/Read
Conversation

CXTUCA -- TU81 DEC/Xll Module
This module streams the drive in both read and write modes. Each
pass begins where the previous pass left off. In effect, the
entire reel of tape is written and read.
CXTUCA tests a single TU81 subsystem.

CONTENTS

INTRODUCTION
CHAPTER 1

SUBSYSTEM DESCRIPTION

General ........•.
Related Documents
Unit Variations
Tape Transport •••••
Basic Features •••••
Special Features ••••••••••••
Tape Media Requirements
Subsystem Overview and Specifications
Performance Evaluation ••.•••••••••••
Tape Formats
Speed Modes and Speed Selection
TU81 Expected Performance
Performance Hints ••
Functional Description
Transport Control System •••••
Interface System
TU81 Interface
TA81 Interface •••••
Power Supply
Physical Description
Tape Deck ••••••
Reel Motors and Hubs
Power Ampl i fi_e_r Module
Air Bearings ••••••••••
Magnetic Head Assembly •••••••
Tape Cleaner
BOT/EOT Assembly
File Protect Sensor
Power Switch •••.•••••
Cover Interlock
Electronic Logic Cages
Pneumatic Pump/Air Filter •••••
Power Supply and Cooling Fan
Control Panel •••••••••
ASCII Port Test Panel

iii

1-1
1-2
1-4
1-4
1-5
1-5
1-7
1-7
1-12
1-12
1-14
1-15
1-16
1-19
1-21
1-21
1-21
1-22
1-22
1-23
1-23
1-24
1-24
1-24
1-24
1-25
1-25
1-25
1-25
1-25
1-25
1-26
1-26
1-26
1-26

CHAPTER 2

OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS

......

General
Control Panel
Operator Controls
Diagnostic Controls
Special Controls
Port Switch Operation
ASCII Port Test Panel
Operator's Hints
Operating Procedure
Inserting the Write-Enable Ring
Threading and Loading the Tape
Unloading the Tape
Manual Mode
On-Line Mode
Pump Shutdown
Corrective Action
CHAPTER 3

CUSTOMER DIAGNOSTICS

General •••••••••••••••.•
Operator Troubleshooting
Error Reporting
Operator Diagnostic Procedure
Power-On Health Check
Diagnostic Test 01
Unit Number
CHAPTER 4

2-1
2-1
2-2
2-2
2-2
2-6
2-6
2-6
2-6
2-6
2-7
2-9
2-9
2-10
2-10
2-10

3-1
3-1
3-2
3-2
3-2
3-3
3-5

CARE AND PREVENTIVE MAINTENANCE

Magnetic Tape Basics
Magnetic Tape Care
Tape Storage
Magnetic Tape Handling
Customer Responsibilities
Customer Maintenance
Magnetic Tape Transport Cleaning Kit
Reflective Tape Markers
Cleaning the Transport
Magnetic Heads
Air 'Bearings
Top Cover, Ta~e Deck, and Head Assembly
Dust Covers
Inspection of Tapes and Equipment
Long Term Storage ••••••••
Shipping Magnetic Tapes
Accessories and Supplies
Ordering •••••••••
Digital Repair Service

4-1
4-2
4-3
4-4
4-8
4-8
4-9
4-10
4-11
4-12
4-12
4-12
4-13
4-14
4-14
4-15
4-15
4-15

CHAPTER 5

INSTALLATION

General ••••••
Site Planning
Space Requirements
Power Requirements
••••••••••••••••
Environmental Requirements and Limits
Tools Required •••••••••••
Unpacking and Inspection •••••••
Floor Loading and Routing
Unpacking ••••••••
Inspection •••••••
Operation Preparations
Mechanical Installation
Electrical Connection •••••
Grounding •••••••••••••
TU81-to-Host Interfacing
Turnkey Configuration •••••••••
TU81-to-Host External Cabling ••••••••
~dd-On Configuration
M8739 Preparation and Installation
Installing the I/O Bulkhead Frame •••••••••••
TA81-to-HSC Interfacing ••.•••••.•
TA81-to-HSC External Cabling
TUBl Acceptance Diagnostics
Resident Diagnostics
M8739 Status Checking
VAX-Based Diagnostics
VAX Front-End Standalone Diagnostic,
Tests 1 through 10
VAX Data Reliability On-Line Diagnostic,
Tests 1 through 3 ••••••••••••
Basic Operating Instructions •••••••••••••
Acceptance Test Example •••••••
PDP-11-Based Diagnostics
Basic Operating Instructions ••••
Hardware Parameters
Software Parameters
TA81 Acceptance Diagnostics
Resident Diagnostics
Subsystem Level Diagnostics
In-Line Tape Diagnostic (ILTAPE)
In-Line Exerciser (!LEXER)
Booting the HSC
Running ILTAPE Example (Test 01)
Running ILTAPE Example (Test 05)

5-1
5-1
5-1
5-2
5-2
5-2
5-2
5-2
5-3
5-5
5-6
5-6
5-13
5-15
5-15
5-17
5-17
5-18
5-18
5-25
5-25
5-27
5-28
5-28
5-28
5-28

. . .. ... ......... . .. . .. .. .. ... .. . . 5-29

5-29
5-29
5-31
5-32
5-32
5-33
5-33
5-33
5-33
5-34
5-34
5-34
5-35
5-36
5-36

APPENDIX A

TURSX ADD-ON INSTALLATION

.. .

Introduction ••••.••••••••••••
Required Tools and Supplies
Parts List (Hardware Kit)
If Parts Are Missing
If You Need Help .•••••
Before You Begin
Goa 1

A-1
A-1
A-2
A-4
A-4
A-4

A-5
A-7
A-11
A-20

•••••.••.•••

Unpacking and Set Up
Assembly
Cabling
FIGURES
1-1
1-2
1-3
1-4
1-5
1-6
1-7
1-8
2-1
2-2
2-3
2-4
2-5
4-1
4-2
4-3
4-4
4-5
4-6
4-7
4-8
4-9
5-1
5-2
5-3

TU81 and TA81 Tape Subsystems .•••....••.
TU81 and TA81 Subsystem Block Diagrams ...... .
Tape Recording Formats ••••.•••.••.••..•
GCR Representation of Data Written on Tape
Adaptive Speed Control and Buffering ••••..
TU81 and TA81 Transport Functi~nal Block Diagrams
Tape Deck Components •.•••••
Major Transport Assemblies ••••••
TU81 Control Panel •.••..
TA81 Control Panel ...••.
Control ~anel Functions
Write-Enable Ring
Tape Path
7ape Damage •..•.•
Correct Tape Handling
Tape Edge Damage
Relative Size of Tape Contaminants
Operating Environment (Positive Room Pressure)
Reflective Tape Markers •••••••..•.•
Magnetic Head/Tape Path Components •••••
Uneven (Stepped) and Even Wind
Cinching . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Space Requirements .••••••••••••
Unpacking the Transport
Removing the Transport from the Shipping Pallet
with Ramt;>s

5-4
5-5
5-6

5-7
5-8
5-9
5-10
5-11
5-12
5-13
5-14

.••••••••••••••••••.•

Rear Shipping Bracket •...•......
Removing the Front Shipping Bar
Cabinet Leveler Feet .l\ssembly and Extension
Stabilizer •.••..•.••••••
Leveler Feet Adjustments
Cabinet Assembly ••••••••
Rear Stabilizer Installation
Side Stabilizers
874 Power Controller
Interface Cabling
Cabling Connections .••••••
Tape Deck Access and Internal Cabling

1-6
1-8
1-12
1-13
1-18
1-19
1-23
1-24
2-1
2-1
2-2
2-7
2-8
4-2
4-4
4-5
4-6
4-7
4-10
4-11
4-13
4-14
5-1
5-3
5-4
5-6
5-7
5-8
5-9
5-l(J
5-11
5-12
5-14
5-16
5-16
5-17

5-15A
5-15B
5-16
5-17
5-18
5-19
5-20
5-21
5-22
A-1
A-2
A-3
A-4
A-5
A-6
A-7
A-8
A-9
A-10
A-11
A-12
A-13
A-14
A-15
A-16
A-17
A-18
A-19

M8739 Module (Style A) ••••••••••••••••••••••••••••• 5-19
M8739 Module (Style B) ••••••••••••••••••••••••••••• 5-20
Address Selection Scheme ••••••••••••••••••••••••••• 5-21
UNIBUS Grant Continuity Card ••••••••••••••••••••••• 5-22
UNIBUS NPG Jumper •••••••••••••••••••••••••.•.•••••• 5-23
Installing the I/O Cables on the CPU Bulkhead •••••• 5-24
TA81 Interface Cabling ••••••••••••••••••••••••••••• 5-26
TA81 Cabling Connections ••••••••••••••••••••••••••• 5-26
TA81 Tape Deck Access and Internal Cabling ••••••••• 5-27
Carton Contents ••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••
A-3
Tape Drive Before Merge Procedure ••••••••••••••.•.•
A-5
TURBX-merge Complete •••••••••.•••••••••••••••••••••
A-6
Removing Ground Stud from Rear Door ••••••••••••••••
A-8
Releasing Pivot Pin to Remove Rear Door ••••••••••••
A-9
Removing Front Bezel ••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••• A-10
Mounting the Chassis Slide Brackets to the
Right-Side Chassis Slide ••••••••••••••••••••••••••• A-11
Mounting the Chassis Slides to the Tape Drive's
Rails (Left Side) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . A-12
Hole Locator (Right Side) •••••••••••••••••••••••••• A-13
Mounting the Left Electrostatic Discharge
Bracket . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . A-14
Extended, Locked Chassis Slides •••••••••••.•••••••• A-15
Securing the Disk Drive to the Chassis Slides •••••• A-17
Adjusting the Filler Panel ••••••••••••••••••••••••• A-19
Plugging in the Disk Drive's Power Cord •••••••••••• A-20
Routing the Disk Drive's Power Cord •••••••••••••••• A-21
Mounting the I/O Bulkhead Module ••••••••••••••••••• A-23
Routing the SDI Cables ••••••••••••••••••••••••••••• A-25
SDI Cable Connections ••••••••••••••••••.••.•••••••• A-26
Securing the Disk Drive with the Electrostatic
Discharge Bracket .................................... A-27

A-20

Mounting the New Stability Label ••••••••••••••••••• A-28

TABLES

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

1-3
•.•••..•••••••••••••...•••.•.•...•
Translation _Record Codes ••••••••••••••••••••••••••• 1-14
Operator Controls . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
2-3
Diagnostic Controls •••••••••••••••••••••••••..•••••
2-4
2-5
Special Controls . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Corrective Actions •••••••••••••••••••••••••••••.•.• 2-11
Address Settings •••••••••••••••••••••••.•••...••••• 5-21
Maximum Error Number •••••••••••••••••••.••••••••..• 5-35
Related Documents

vii

INTRODUCTION

The TU81/TA81 Tape Subsystem user's Guide provides information on
installing, testing, maintaining, and operating the TU81 and TA81
magnetic tape subsystems.
The guide is divided into five chapters.
Chapter 1 gives a general description of the subsystems. It
provides a functional and physical description of the transport,
an overview of the system and interface, and a list of basic
specifications.
Chapter 2 describes all operator controls and indicators. It gives
instructions for routine, fault-free transport operation. It also
provides fault codes and corrective action you can take in case of
transport failure.
Chapter
3 provines
troubleshooting
information and customer
diagnostics (tests, fault codes, and corrective actions).
Chapter 4 provides complete care and preventive maintenance (PM)
information,
customer
responsibilities,
magnetic
tape
care,
customer PM procedures, and accessories and supplies. Also listed
are Digital Repair Service programs and telephone numbers.
Chapter
5
provides
information,. incl udin~
test procedures.

complete
power and

unpacking
and
installation
signal cabling and acceptance

Appendix A describes the procedure for installing an optional disk
drive into the TU81/TA81 Tape Subsystem cabinet.

CHAPTER 1
SUBSYSTEM DESCRIPTION

GENERAL
The TU81 and TA81 are low-cost, data storage systems. These
systems are dual-speed, 9-track, magnetic tape subsystems. They
f ea tu re microprocessor-control led electronic control systems and
tape streaming techniques for high data transfer rates, data
reliability, and maintainability.
The TU81 and TA81 subsystems are similar in design, operation, and
function. Their main difference is in the data communication
interface, that is, the way the tape transport connects to and
communicates with the host computer.
Both tape subsystems have the same standalone tape transport, but
have different I/O controller modules, interface buses, and
external system interface modules. Briefly, these tape subsystems
can be described as follows.
•

The TUB 1 consists of the tape transport and the UNIBUS
interface.
The TU81 connects directly to the host
computer through the low-end storage interconnect (LESI)
bus and UNIBUS adapter. It uses tape mass storage control
protocol (TMSCP) to communicate with Digital Equipment
Corporation's various computers.

•

The TA81 consists of the tape transport and the standard
tape interface (STI) interconnect bus. The TA81 is used
with and controTled by a HSC mas·s storage I/O controller.
The HSC enables multiple processor a to access a common
pool
of
dis ks
and
tapes.
The
TABl
has
a
dual
communication
port
that
allows
at
least
two
HSC
controllers to share the transport through static dual
porting.

1-1

LEGAL NOTICE
TMSCP and STI protocols and documentation
are
the
proprietary
information of
Digital
Equipment
Corporation.
UNIBUS/Q-BUS/BI-BUS
port
drivers and
documentation for MSCP/TMSCP products are
also proprietary information of Digital
Equipment Corporation.
RELATED DOCUMENTS
The documents in Table 1-1 apply to the TU81 and TA81. They are
available through Digital's local sales and service office or the
Accessories and Supplies Group. Refer to the ordering information
in Chapter 4 for details.
Also, use the manuals and handbooks of the appropriate PDP-11 and
VAX computer systems and processors,
the HSCSO, and the RA60,
RASO, and RA81 disk drives.

1-2

Table 1-1

Related Documents

Title

Number

Description

TU81/TA81 Tape
Subsystem user
Guide

EK-TUABl-UG

Contains the functional and
system overview with installation, operation, and user
maintenance information.

TU81/TA81 Tape
Subsystem
Technical Manual

EK-TUA Bl-TM

Contains the system functional
description, interface and
communication protocol overview, theory of operation,
installation and acceptance
test procedures, test and
maintenance information,
including ASCII test terminal
and port description and use.

TU81/TA81
Pathfinder

EK-TUA81-SV

Provides test documentation
(troubleshooting procedures,
diagnostic tests, fault and
subfault codes) for use by
trained service personnel.

TU81/TA81
Illustrated
Parts Breakdown

EK-TUA81-IP

Provides a list and
illustrations of TU81/TA81
assemblies and replaceable
parts.

TU81 Magnetic
Tape Subsystem
Pocket Service
Guide

EK-0TU81-PS

Provides a quick reference to
installation, maintenance, and
repair procedures for trained
service personnel.

TA81 Magnetic
Tape Subsystem
Maintenance
Guide

AA-Z786A-TC

As a part of the HSC50 Service
Manual, gives a quick reference
to installation, maintenance,
and repair procedures for
trained service personnel.

874 Power
Controller IPB

EK-00874-IP

Provides an illustrated parts
breakdown of the 874 power
controller.

1-3

UNIT VARIATIONS
The TU81 and T~Sl subsystems are available
models.

the

following

TA81-CA (12~ V, 60 HZ)
TA81-CB (240 V, 50 Hz)

TU81-CA (120 V, 60 Hz)
TU81-CB (240 V, 50 Hz)

TAPE TRANSPORT
The tape transport for the TU81 and TA81 is horizontally mounted.
It is a fully integrated tape storage system. The transport is
packaged with its formatter, inter face controller, and 8 7 4 power
controller in the standard cabinet, a 40-inch high H9643. The
transport writes and reads data in two formats. One format uses
phase-encoded (PE), 9-track, 1600 bits/inch data recording, which
is compatible with standards of the American National Standards
Institute (ANSI) • The other uses group-coded recording (GCR) and
9-track, 62 50 bi ts/ inch data recording. GCR is a coding method
that uses nonreturn-to-zero,
inverted
(NRZI)
recording, but
provides a much higher recording density and transfer rate. The
transport operates in either the conventional start/stop or
streaming modes. The mode is automatically selected by the
transport's adaptive speed control system.
The transport has three speed modes.
Low speed, start/stop
Low speed, streaming
High speed, streaming

63.5 cm/s (25 in/s)
63.5 cm/s (25 in/s)
190.5 cm/s {75 in/s)

Instantaneous data transfer rates are from 40 Kbytes/s to 469
Kbytes/s depending on the speed mode and density.
NOTE
The TU81 or TA81 cabinet can hold an
optional disk drive
under the
tape
transport at the bottom of the cabinet.
Refer to Appendix A for disk drive
installation information.
The transport does not have a capstan, tension arms, or vacuum
col urnns
in
its tape drive mechanism.
Instead,
it
uses
a
microprocessor-controlled servo that directly controls the reel
motors to maintain constant tape speed and tension.

1-4

Basic Features
The transport has the following basic features.
•

Tape path is short.

•

Tape path has no capstan and no moving parts.

•

Tape contacts only the tape cleaner and magnetic head.

•

Transport has air
tension sensor.

•

Microprocessors control all major operating functions.

•

Built-in,
power-on
initiated at power-on.

•

Resident diagnostics can be manually initiated from
front panel.

•

Transport has resident adaptive speed control.

•

Transport has no mechanical adjustments.

•

Transport requires no scheduled preventive maintenance.

•

Transport has a long-life, magnetic head.

•

Transport· has "on-the-fly," 1-track (PE mode)
(GCR mode) error correction.

bearings

and

diagnostics

solid-state,

are

tape

automatically
the

or 2-track

Special Features
The transport features an ASCII* diagnostic port. This port allows
qualified Field Service personnel to conduct complex TU81/TA81
troubleshooting and testing with any RS232C-compatible terminal. A
special, hand-held terminal is available for this purpose.
The TA81 has two, special switches/indicators on the control
panel: PORT A and PO~B t~ne for each interface channel). They
control the TA81-to-HSC data interchange.
Figure 1-1 shows the TU81 and TA81 subsystems.

* American Standard Code for Information Interchange.

1-5

TA 81 TA PE
TRANSPOR

CO NT RO L
PA NE L

c
' 'ili>llll I> I\ I\ I\

I\' II\\• I

' \\\\\\\\\\ \\\ '1\,\ \ \
POWER
CORD
PLUG

CA BI NE T
MA •04 27&4
SMP.·Ol&S-8~

\
\\ .\\1
I I'\

'\\ ,\I I 1 '. \

.. \q ,\\ \\\ \\
POWER
CORO
PLUG

F ig u re 1 -1

TUSl a n d TA
81
1 -6

Tape Subsys

te m s

TAPE MEDIA REQUIREMENTS
All of Digital's tape transport products are designed
manufactured
for
high
performance
and
reliability.
considerations given to produce such products must include
tape media used on them.

and
The
the

The TU81 and TA81 are designed to meet the format and recording
requirements for 1/2-inch wide, 9-track, magnetic tape as set in
ANSI standard X3.54-1976. This design requires that the magnetic
tapes used on this tape transport strictly adhere to ANSI standard
X3.40-1981.
This standard defines the minimum physical and
magnetic requirements for 1/2-inch wide magnetic tape. In addition
to meeting ANSI requirements, all tapes recommended by Digital
must conform to Digital's own magnetic tape specifications. This
specification is used to evaluate and qualify magnetic tapes for
Digital's use and sale to its customers.
Digital is constantly evaluating tape media in an ongoing effort
to ensure a high-quality product. To date, no backcoated magnetic
tapes meet Digital' s specification. Backcoating can cause tape
slippage,
load
failures,
and
false
end-of-tape
(EOT)
and
beg inning-of-tape
(BOT)
sensing.
It
also
requires
frequent
transport cleaning because it leaves a residue on the transport.
As a result of these problems, backcoated magnetic tapes are not
recommended for use on the TU81 and TABl tape transport.
For the best performance and maximum reliability of the TU81 and
TA81 tape transport, use only those magnetic tapes that meet ANSI
requirements and Digital's specification.
To
get
354-3300
address.

NOTE
ANSI
standards,
call
(212)
or write to
the following

American National Standards Institute
1430 Broadway Street New York, New York
10018
SUBSYSTEM OVERVIEW AND SPECIFICATIONS
Figure 1-2 shows general block diagrams of the TU81 and TA81
subsystems. A TU81 subsystem consists of one tape transport, one
resident
interface controller module, one interface adapter
module, and an interface cabling set. A TA81 subsystem includes
the tape transport and interface cabling.
The following list gives the basic operating
the TU81 and TA81 subsystems.

1-7

specifications for

rrios:r- - - - - - ,

I
I
I
I
I

MB739 UNIBUS
LESI ADAPTER
MODULE

I
I
I

. ~SC - -

I
I

L---

CPU

UNIBUS

TO
HOST

TO
HOST
CPU

- - - --,

I
I

TDC MODULE
L0108 ·YB

L ...._,_-.----.......--.--...--...... _ - J

_ _ _ .J

TO ANY
TAXX
TAPE
TRANSPORT

---.,
I
I
I
I
I
II

TO
HSC

r,.A-;- - - -

"l
I

TM SCP
INTERFACE
CONTROLLER

I
I
I
I

I
L _______ J
TU81 CONTROL LOGIC

STI

~~;~~~n

TA81
CONTROL
LOGIC

I
J

I
I
I

L---------J

MA-1168-83

\.1A 111;3 SJ

Si-iR-0166·85

Figure 1-2

TU81 and TA81 Subsystem Block Diagrams

1-8

Functional Characteristics
Tape speed (nominal)
Low speed, start/stop mode
Low speed, streaming mode
High speed, streaming mode

25 in/s
25 in/s
75 in/s

Data format/recording

PE mode

9-track, phase-encoded
recording, 1600 bits/inch

GCR mode

9-track, group-coded
recording, 6250 bits/inch

Tape capacity (typical)

PE mode

40 Mbytes
140 Mbytes

GCR mode

Data transfer rate

PE low speed mode
PE high speed mode

40 Kbytes/s
120 Kbytes/s
156 Kbytes/s
469 Kbytes/s

GCR low speed mode
GCR high speed mode

Rewind time (nominal)
Rewind speed {nominal)
Load/unload time (maximum)

2.5 minutes
192 in/s
15 seconds

Physical Characteristics
Electronics

Solid-state

Tape width
Tape thickness
Tape tension

12.65 mm (0.5 in)
38.1 micron (1.5 mil)
2.23 N (8 oz and 5 oz)

Reel diameter
Reel capacity

2 6 • 7 cm* ( 10. 5 in)
732 m* (2400 ft)

105.7 cm (H)

Transport dimensions

7 6. 2 cm

X 54.6 cm (W) X

(D)

or
in ( H )
30 in (D)

41. 6

X 2 1. 5 in

139 kg (295 lbs)

Transport weight (in cabinet)

* Smaller tape reels are also allowed.
1-9

( W)

Operational Characteristics
Power requirements
Voltage

93 to 128 vac, 120 vac
nominal, 60 Hz, single phase
187 to 256 vac, 220 or 240 vac
nominal, 50 Hz, single phase

Current

Average input current
3.0 A rms at 75 in/s

Power consumption

300 VA, standby and loaded
550 VA, start/stop (maximu~)

Power controller

Model 874F, 50 Hz, 240 v, 12 A
Model 8 7 4 D' 6 0 Hz ' 12 0 v' 2 4 A

Power cord
(for 120 v, 60 Hz)

3-wire, number 12 AWG, 14-ft
long; plug NEMA L5-30P,
Hubbel 2611

Operating temperature+

10°C (50°F) to 40°C (104°F)T

Storage temperature

-10°C (14°F) to 50°C (122°F)

Relative humidity

20% to 80% (10% to 90% in
storage)

Altitude

Up to 3048 m (10,000 ft)
688 millibar (9.98 psi)

Heat dissipation (average)

1100 Btu/Hr

Acoustical noise

51 dB for open office
environment

t Restricted by the operating temperature of the media.
; Operating temperature is further limited by the temperature
limitations of the media (refer to Chapter 4 for media
limitations).
1-10

M8739 UNIBUS Adapter
Module type
Power

Quad-height PC card
+5 V at 4 A maximum

Data Reliability
Recoverable write error

1 in 10 8 bits (PE)
1 in 10 8 bits (GCR)

Recoverable read-forward
error

1 in 10 9 bits (PE and GCR)

Unrecoverable read error

1 in 10i~ bits (PE)
bits (GCR)
1 in 10

Unrecoverable write error

Not allowed

1-11

PERFORMANCE EVALUATION
The TU81 and TA81 tape transports use PE and GCR recording and
streaming techniques for an inexpensive way to back up high-speed
transfer, high-capacity disk storage. The GCR recording method
with 6520 bits/in data density gives fast serial access to large
amounts of data.
GCR recording has several advantages over other techniques such as
NRZI or PE.
• Faster data transfer rates
• More data storage per tape reel
• "On-the-fly" error correction per data block (record)
Tape Formats
Three major recording formats are used with 1/2-inch, 9-track,
magnetic tape. They are NRZI, PE, and GCR. Figure 1-3 shows the
relationship between these formats.
In NRZI mode, a 1 is represented by a flux change. This flux
change can be either positive or negative. The maximum number of
flux changes that can be on tape is 800 flux changes per inch. In
Figure 1-3, NRZI format shows the data string 1010101.HJ0111. The
NRZI format is normally written at either 200, 556, or 800
bits/inch, which is relatively low density for high-capacity disk
backup.
In PE mode, a 1 is written on tape by generating a negative
transition in the center of a bit cell. A 0 is written bv
generating a positive transition in the center of a bit cell. In
PE mode, the tape is written at 1600 to 3200 flux changes per
inch. Any time sequential ls are recorded (11111), there are 3200
flux changes per inch. The same is true for a record of sequential
0s (00000). If the data pattern written is alternate ls and 0s
(101010), the tape is written at 1600 bits/inch.
BIT CELL

;-"-..
Tl
NAZI

T7
0

TB
0

T9
0

T10
0

T11
1

T12
1

T13
1

+
PE

4 BIT DATA SUBGROUP
TRANSLATES TO
5 BIT STORAGE SUBGROUP

l
0

SUBGROUP

---I

~r-------GROUP-----0

GCR

Figure 1-3

Tape Recording Formats

1-12

GCR mode is a version of NRZI recording that increases the
effective transfer rate up to 6250 bits/inch. This is accomplished
by writing at 9042 flux changes per inch with special four-to-five
translation and addition of characters to a GCR record. The
transport' s hardware automatically makes this translation when
operating in GCR mode.
In GCR mode, no more than two 0s can be recorded in succession, on
a given track. This is done by translating 4-bit data groups into
5-bit storage groups. Refer to Figure 1-3 and note how data 1010
is transferred to 01010. Every time a 1 is represented, a flux
change occurs in the center of bit cell. When a 0 is written, no
flux change occurs.
Figure 1-4 shows how data is written on tape in GCR mode. Every 4
bits on all nine tracks are grouped together, forming a data
subgroup. Two data subgroups make a data group. After every 4 bits
on each nine tracks are translated into 5 bits, they can be
grouped in a storage subgroup. This new 5-bit storage subgroup is
what is actually written on tape. Two storage subgroups form a
storage group.
Table 1-2 shows the translation codes for bit combination encoding
and
decoding.
During
GCR recording,
each
4-bit
group
is
sequentially translated
(encoded)
to the corresponding 5-bit
combination. The transport records this combination by using the
NRZI technique. When the transport reads the tape, the opposite
occurs. It decodes the 5-bit combination into the original 4-bit
code.
GCR recording provides high data recording density and
rates, and is efficient for disk backup.

DATA TO BE
WRITTEN

transfer

1110111011101010101111111

4 BIT DATA SUBGROUP
TRANSLATES TO
5 BIT STORAGE SUBGROUP
ACTUALLY
+ , O
WRITTEN ON 0
TAPE

\.--=SUBGROUP

--1

r.-r-------GROUP-----0

r-+-0-....1

Io
I

SUBGROUP 1

SUBGROUP 2

SUBGROUP3
MA·'ll02

Figure 1-4

GCR Representation of Data Written on Tape

1-13

Table 1-2

Translation Record Codes

4-Bit Data Value
(Data Subgroup)

5-Bit Recording Value
(Storage Subgroup)

0000
0001
0010'
0CH1

11001
11011
HHH0
10011

~100

11101
10101
10110
10111

0101
0110
0111
1~00

1011

11010
01001
rn010
0HH1

1100
1101
1110
1111

11110
01101
01110
01111

1001
101~

Speed Modes and Speed Selection
The TU81 and TA81 transport operates at one of
automatically selected to optimize data throughput.

three

speeds

25 in/s start/stop
25 in/s streaming
75 in/s streaming
In the 25 in/s start/stop speed, the transport can stop and start
within an ANSI-minimum interblock gap (IBG) of 0.6 inches (PE
mode) or 0'. 3 inches ( GCR mode) when reading. However, if the
transport stops when writing at this speed, it writes a gap of 0.7
inches. A stop or a start in this mode takes 20 milliseconds
(nominal), and is similar to the stopping and starting of a
"conventional" (nonstreaming) transport.
In the 25 in/s or 75 in/s streaming speeds, the transport always
writes ANSI-minimum gaps of 0.3 inches, but is operating as a
"streaming" tape transport. When streaming, it cannot start and
stop in the IBG, as conventional transports can. When a streaming
transport does have to stop, it:
•

Slowly coasts forward to a stop,

•

Backs up over a section of tape previously processed,

1-14

•

Waits for the next command, and

•

Accelerates, taking a running start so when it finds the
original IBG, it is at full speed.

This cycle is called repositioning. ~pproximately 0.2 seconds at
25 in/s and 0. 6 seconds at 75 in/s are required to complete an
entire repositioning cycle. If the central processing unit (CPU)
cannot supply data to, or accept data from, a streaming transport
at a rate that keeps
the
transport constantly
in motion
(streaming), the transport repositions when it runs out of
commands to execute. In this instance, thrashing can occur.
Thrashing is when extremely long reposition times overwhelm the
time spent processing data. This results in poor data throughput.
The TU81 and TA81 transport has a microprocessor-based adaptive
speed control system that is designed to eliminate thrashing. This
feature automatically changes the tape speed from 75
in/s
streaming to 25 in/s streaming if excessive repositioning is
sensed. Conversely,
if the
transport has been successfully
streaming at 25 in/s for a determined time, the adaptive speed
control changes the speed to 75 in/s. A similar algorithm controls
speed changing from 25 in/s start/stop to 25 in/s streaming, and
vice versa.
If the adaptive speed control system changes tape speed from 25
in/s to 75 in/s, and vice versa, too often within a determined
time, the transport stops trying to operate at 75 in/s. The
transport tries 75 in/s again after the algorithm is reset by the
occurrence
of
the
rewind,
initialize
commands,
or
after
encountering a tape mark (read or write).
Adaptive speed control is not user programmable. It matches the
CPU data rate to the tape speed mode of the transport for the best
performance.
TU81 Expected Performance
During VMS (disk) backup, TU81 performance varies depending on the
CPO model, the load on ue-system, and the allocated buffer space.
Performance also depends on whether the cyclic redundancy check
(CRC) is turned on or off. Disk speed and insufficient internal
memory also have some effect.
For best performance, build a large data buffer in the main memory
(for example, set BUFFER=5). Also, see "Performance Hints" in this
chapter.

1-15

When running disk backup without a heavy system.load, you can
expect the following results.
VAX-11/780

In PE and/or GCR modes, the TU81 generally runs at
25 in/s with some repositioning.

VAX-11/750

In PE mode, the TU81 generally runs at 75 in/s with
some repositioning.
In GCR mode, the TU81 generally runs at 25 in/s
streaming.
It
can
run
at
75
in/s
(with
repositioning) if you turn off CRC, use high-speed
disks (RA or some MASSBUS disks), and provide 2
Mbytes or more of main memory.

VA.X-11/730

In PE mode, the TU81 generally runs at 25 in/s
streaming. Using fast disks and large main memory
(2 Mbytes or more) can increase the likelihood of
getting 75 in/s performance.
In GCR mode, the TU81 always runs at 25 in/s
start/stop. It can run at 25 in/s streaming with
system "tuning" (fast disks, large memory) as in PE
mode.
NOTE
If data throughput is not suff icien~ to
maintain the streaming capabilities of
the transport, then the TU81 always
defaults to the 25 in/s start/stop mode
in PE and GCR mode.

Performance Hints
The frequency of drive repositioning depends entirely on how fast
the CPU can process data, relative to the tape speed of the
transport while it is streaming.
One way to increase the likelihood of tape streaming under VMS
Backup is to turn off the CRC. This can substantially improve data
speed in GCR mode. In PE mode, turning off CRC is not recommended
because it creates unacceptable risks in data integrity.
Another way to increase the probability of tape streaming (at 25
and 75 in/s) is to build a large data buffer in the main memory
that can deliver or accept data at tape-streaming rates. This
makes sure that a known, large amount of data is processed (the
data in the buffer) before a potential reposition cycle. The total
percentage of time the transport is doing useful work increases,
relative to the time spent repositioning. The adaptive speed
control system is more likely to maintain a higher performance
speed selection.

1-16

A buffer allocated by the application's program should have the
capacity of at least 32 Kbytes (for example, eight 4-Kbyte
records) for better overall performance. Furthermore, use a ring
buffer type. That is, reading and writing into the buffer should
occur at the same time to prevent or delay an empty buffer
condition.
Of course, if the potential data rate to or from the host CPU is
greater than the tape streaming rate, then the tape streams and no
buffering is necessary. However, if the potential rate drops below
the
streaming
rate,
the buffer
reduces
the
frequency
of
repositioning
and
the opportunity for
high-speed
streaming
increases.
Figure
1-5
shows
how
data
buffering
enhances
performance.
In several cases, Digital's operating systems have the capability
of buffering I/O channels. Wherever possible, select operating
system features of this type to enhance opportunities for
high-speed streaming also.

1-17

TU81 PERFORMANCE WITHOUT
DATA SUFFERING

BETTER

ACHIEVED
AVERAGE
TAPE SPEED

75 inls
STREAMING

AREA OF
INEFFICIENCY

(in/sJ

o..pc.~~~~....-~~~--.~~~~-,-~~~~~~~~~~~~

POTENTIAL TAPE SPEED lin1sl

TU81 PERFORMANCE \/l.llTH
DATA BUFFERING

/
/

75 in/s
STREAMING

50
ACHIEVED
AVERAGE
TAPE SPEED

AREA OF
INEFFICIENCY

(in/sl

~
o-1'-~~~~..-~~~~~~~~..-~~~~~~~~~~~~

POTENTIAL TAPE SPEED (IN/S)

MA·0088-82A
SMR 0167-8!
0

Figure 1-5

Adaptive Speed Control and Buffering

1-18

FUNCTIONAL DESCRIPTION
The TU81 and TA81 consist of the transport control system, the
interface, power supply, and the tape transport unit (Figure 1-6).

UNIBUS

UNIBUS
ADAPTER
MODULE

M8739

CPU

-----,
LESI BUS CABLE

--..-----..
TMSCP
INTERFACE
CONTROLLER

ASCII
PORT

r - - --i------'
I
I
I

I
1---

FORMATTER
SUBSYSTEM

1
OPERATOR
CONTROL
PANEL

I
I

I
1--1

----4

READ/WRITE
SERVO
SUBSYSTEM

I
I
POWER
AMPLIFIER
MODULE

-I

t--------1

POWER
SUPPLY
MODULE

120/240- --.i
Vac

I
L-

I
I

t- "...L":.:. -

PNEUMATIC
PUMP/FILTER

----~

CONTROL
POWER
MECHANICAL

-- -• • • • • •

II"
MA-1176-83

Figure 1-6

TUBl and TABl Transport Functional Block
Diagrams (Part 1)

1-19

l'Hsc-----1
TO
HOST

TO
rlOST

Cl BUS

TDC
MODULE

---..l
- - - T O HSC
ST! BUS CABLES

hASUAPE TRANSPORT

-,
I

, . . . . . . . . - - - - - -..... INTERFACE
CONTROLLER
Ir - - ,__ST!
_ _ _ __

1---

i----------t

ASCII
PORT

FORMATTER
MODULE

1
OPERATOR
CONTROL
PANEL

I
I

!- __
I

-----l

READ/WRITE
SERVO
MODULE

I
I
POWER
AMPLIFIER
MODULE

-l

1--------1

POWER
SUPPLY
MODULE

.120·240--.,
Vac

I
I
I- ...I.- -

PNEUMATIC
PUMP 1 FILTER

LCONTROL
POWER
MECHANICAL

----~

----·
I

I I I I •

MA.1175-83

SMR·016S..85

Figure 1-6

TU81 and TA81 Transport Functional
Block Diagrams (Part 2)

1-20

Transport Control System
This part consists of two logic/control subsystems and a power
amplifier module. All logic modules are functionally partitioned
and controlled by the on-board microprocessors.
First is the formatter subsystem. It uses two logic printed
circuit (PC) cards to control the transport' s operation, and to
convert received I/O commands into the transport's motion and data
transfer operations. The formatter converts data received from the
host computer via the interface controller to GCR or PE format and
passes it to the read/write head for recording on tape. Data read
from tape is "on-the-fly" error corrected, converted into data
bits, and passed via the interface to the host computer. The
formatter also stores and monitors the built-in diagnostic
routines.
Second is the read/write/servo subsystem. It includes three logic
PC cards and controls the electromechanical functions of the
transport (reel motors, tension sensors, magnetic head).
The power amplifier module receives low voltage analog control
signals from the read/write/servo subsystem and outputs higher
voltages to the reel motors.
Interface System
This part consists of the resident (transport-mounted) interface
controller or "personality" module, the interface bus, and a
communication interface adapter module installed in an appropriate
host computer or controller. The TU81 and TA81 have different
interfaces.
TU81 Interface -- The TU81 tape transport is directly interfaced
to the host CPU. The interface consists of a transport-mounted
TMSCP interface controller module, LESI bus to the CPU, and the
UNIBUS/LESI adapter module plugged
into a small peripheral
controller (SPC) slot in the host I/O backplane.
The UNIBUS/LES I adap_ter module (M8719) is the standard quad-size
PC card that provides physical interface with the CPU's I/O. It
supervises several I/O functions and works with the resident TMSCP
I/O controller in command and data transfers. The physical LESI
interconnect between the CPU and the TUBl consists of three
serially connected 50-conductor cables.

1-21

The first cable is the external, round shielded cable, which is 20
feet long. The second one is the internal ribbon cable in the CPU
(from the M8739 to the bulkhead). The third cable is in the TU81
(from the TMSCP controller) • For I/O cabling, refer to Figures
5-11 and 5-12.
The TU81 uses the asynchronous TMSCP data communication protocol
to transmit data. This enables the T081 to communicate with
Digital's various computer systems.
The TMSCP resident interface module is a complete on-board
interface controller that establishes data interface between the
LESI bus and the PE/GCR formatter. This module mounts in the same
logic cage as the formatter. The microprocessor-based controller
fetches and translates host-originated command messages into
PE/GCR formatter commands. It monitors and encodes formatter and
drive status data into the status messages, and transmits them to
the host. It also supervises bidirectional data transfers between
the host CPU and the T081.
TA81 Interface -- The TA81 tape transport connects to the host
system only through the HSC I/O controller. The TA81 communicates
with the HSC by means of the standard tape interface (STI). The
STI consists of the transport-mounted STI controller module with
two I/O ports, one or two STI cables, and the HSC-mounted tape
data channel (TDC) module (L0108-YB). Data transfers on the STI
bus are performed according to STI protocol (see the legal notice
at the beginning of this chapter). A dual communication port
allows connection of up to two HSC controllers;
each HSC
controller allows the TA81 to be accessed by one of several host
systems. For maximum availability, connect one TA81 to two HSC
controllers.
NOTE
The
STI
controller
and
TDC module
function like the corresponding TU81
modules
(see above)
except for
the
different
communication
bus
and
protocol (STI versus TMSCP).
The transport logic and interface modules are compactly mounted in
two metal cages under the tape deck.
Power Supply
This part is vertically mounted in the rear of the tape deck. It
provides all required ac/dc voltages. The switched 120 or 240
vol ts to the power supply come from the 874 power controller at
the bottom of the transport cabinet.
The 874 power controller is connected to the CPU or HSC by the
power switching line, which enables the CPU (or HSC) to control ac
power remotely (on/off) to the on-line transport.

1-22

PHYSICAL DESCRIPTION
The TUBl and TABl are manual load,
with the following major assemblies.

reel-to-reel

tape transports

•

Tape deck with a read/write/erase magnetic head, servo
reel motors,
air bearings, and solid-state tension
sensors

•

Two electronic logic cages

•

Control panel

•

ASCII port panel

•

Pneumatic pump/air filter

•

Power supply and cooling fan

Tape Deck
The following paragraphs briefly describe the deck components and
their functions (Figures 1-7 and 1-8).

REAR (SUPPL YI
AIR BEARING,
EDGE GUIDES &
PRESSURE SENSOR

TAPE CLEANER

BOT/EQT
BLOCK

REEL LATCH
(RELEASE)

ERASE HEAD
MAGNETIC READ/
WRITE HEAD
D.ECK PAWN
FASTENER

_),EL.

FRONT (TAKE-UP)
AIR BEARING
EDGE GUIDES&
PRESSURE SENSOR
TOP COVER
INTERLOCK
SWITCH

MACHINE TAKE-UP
REEL FIXED

_;,an

=----.J~2:=======~COVER LOCK
+
FRONT

MA·0081 A·82

Figure 1-7

Tape Deck Components

1-23

Reel Motors and Hubs -- The reel servo motors are mounted under
the tape deck and are covered by an acoustic, cooling, and
electrical cover. The servo motors drive the supply and take-up
reels. The supply (rear) hub has a manual, mechanical latch •• The
latch secures the reel to the hub face by pressing the periphery
of the hub face while the reel is positioned against the bottom
flange of the hub. To release the reel, press the center button on
the hub face.
The supply reel motor works with the supply and take-up air
bearings to control tape tension across the recording surface of
the magnetic head.
The take-up (front) reel 'is permanently mounted on the take-up
motor shaft. The take-up motor/reel speed is controlled to
maintain constant tape speed across the read/write head.
Power Amplifier Module -- This module is also mounted
tape deck within the motor acoustic cover.

under

the

Air Bearings -- Two air bearing/tension sensor assemblies guide
the tape across the magnetic head on an air cushion and measure
air pressure reflection. The pressure signal is processed by the
control system that maintains constant tape speed and air pressure
with an appropriate change in reel motor speed.
Magnetic Head Assembly
head and an erase head.

This assembly consists of a

MAGNETIC~\,
HEAD
ASSEMBLY

\..' \
,1

POWER
SWITCH

TAKE-UP
REEL

LOGIC
CAGES

Figure 1-8

MA-1165-83

Major Transport Assemblies
1-24

read/write

The dual-gap read/write head unit is designed te do the read/write
functions in a 9-track format.
The dual-gap head allows a
write-to-tape operation, read-only operation, or read-after-write
operation. A full-width erase head erases the tape during a write
operation while the tape moves forward before passing over the
write head.
Tape Cleaner -- This cleaner consists of two blades and a vacuum
port to strip unwanted particles off the tape surface. One blade
cleans tape in the forward direction and the second cleans tape in
reverse. The vacuum system directs the stripped particles through
a screen and into an air filter.
BOT/EOT Assembly -- This assembly is adjacent to the magnetic head
assembly. Beginning-of-tape (BOT) and end-of-tape (EOT) markers
are detected optically. Photosensors detect light reflected from
BOT and EOT markers on tape. An absence-of-tape (AOT) condition is
detected when either one of the BOT and EOT photosensors detects a
reflective marker normally blocked by the presence of a tape.
File Protect Sensor -- This sensor consists of a reflective ring
around the supply hub and an adjacent photosensor that are used to
detect the presence or absence of the write-enable ring on the
supply reel.
Power Switch -- The main power switch (circuit breaker) is at the
rear, right corner of the tape deck. In the off position (0 side
pressed) , input ac voltage is removed from the transport power
supply. In the on position (1 side pressed), the transport is
powered on.
Cover Interlock
The interlock switch/cover latch is a safety
device that allows reel motor motion only when the top cover is
closed and latched.
Electronic Logic Cages
These two metal cages, vertically mounted under the tape deck, are
the mounting and security enclosures for the logic modules.
•

One cage holds the formatter (two PC cards) and interface
controller (one PC card) modules. The external I/O
cable(s) plug into the connectors on the cage's mounting
plate.

•

The other cage holds
(three PC cards).

the

read/write/servo

subsystem

The logic modules can move along the slots in the cages allowing
easy access for testing, removal, and replacement.

1-25

Pneumatic Pump/Air Filter
The pump and air f i 1 ter, together with the plenums, are a
pressure/vacuum system.
This
system
provides specified
air
pressure/vacuum at the air bearings and the tape cleaner. The
pneumatic system turns on and operates continuously when the tape
is loaded.
Power Supply and Cooling Fan
The power supply is mounted at the rear of the tape deck. The
power supply provides ac/dc voltages when the transport is powered
on. A fan cools the power supply and provides air circulation for
the logic modules.
Control Panel
The control oanel is in the upper-right corner of the cabinet's
front panel: The control panel has operational and diagnostic
membrane-type switches, functional indicators, connectors, and a
3-digit, light-emitting diode (I:.ED) display. (Chapter 2 details
control panel functions.)
ASCII Port Test Panel
This panel is on the control panel in the upper part of the
cabinet's front door (Figures 2-1, 2-2, and 2-3). The ASCII test
panel has an I/O (signal) connector for the RS232-compatible
terminal (including Digital's hand-held test terminal), power
outlet, and fuse. Field Service personnel can use this port and
the ASCII terminal for conducting spe€ial diagnostic routines.
For more information on the ASCII port, refer to the technical
manual and the service and maintenance guides for the TU81 and
TA81 subsystems (Table 1-1).

1-26

CHAPTER 2
OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS

GENERAL
This chapter explains the control panel and provides instructions
for installing the tape reel, loading tape, and placing the drive
on-line to a host computer.
CONTROL PANEL
Figures 2-1 and 2-2 show the control panels of the TU81 and TA81
tape transports. The control panels in both transports are almost
identical, except for the two additional communication switches A
and B on the TA81.

MA-1164-83A

Figure 2-1

TU81 Control Panel

MA·1164-83

Figure 2-2

TABl Control Panel
2-1

MAINTENANCE

MA-1161""83
SH~·01H·SS

Figure 2-3

Control Panel Functions

All panel switches are pushbuttons. Switch functions, and the
conditions required for enabling the functions, are given in the
following paragraphs. Figure 2-3 gives a general view of the TUBl
and TABl control panel.
The central part of the control panel
(OPERATOR)
contains
operator-oriented switches and indicators. The 3-digit display
shows the unit number during normal operation. If an error occurs,
either during on-line operation or an off-line diagnostic routine,
the di splay indicates the 3-character error code (for example,
E31). While running the off-line resident diagnostic, the display
shows the number of the test in progress.
The right part of the panel (MAINTENANCE) contains the switches
and indicators for running the resident diagnostic test routines.
The
left
part
of
the
control
panel
(SPECIAL)
provides
specia 1-purpose switches, connectors, and indicators. These are
the fault/controller switch/indicator, the ASCII test panel (used
by Field Service) ,
and
the communication channel selection
switches for port A and port B (only TABl).
Operator Controls
Table 2-1 describes the operator controls on the TUBl and TA81.
Diagnostic Controls
Table 2-2 describes the diagnostic controls on the TU81 and TABl.
Special Controls
Table 2-3 describes the special-purpose controls on the TUBl and
TA81.

2-2

Table 2-1

Operator Controls

Switch/Indicator

Function

LOGIC OFF

Indicator -- When on, LOGIC OFF indicates a
power fault, meaning a failure is in the
transport's power supply.

LOGIC ON

Indicator -- When on, LOGIC ON indicates a
normal power-on condition with all de voltages
applied to the transport's control system and
circuits.
NOTE
The LOGIC OFF and LOGIC ON buttons are
not operational.

FILE PRO

Indicator -- When on, FILE PRO indicates the
absence of a write-enable ring in the supply
reel and write operation is inhibited.
Otherwise, write operations are allowed.

BOT

Indicator -- When on, BOT indicates the tape is
loaded and positioned at the BOT marker.

LOAD/REWIND

switch -- If the transport is powered on and
tape is threaded, pressing this switch loads
the tape. If tape is already loaded, pressing
the switch rewinds the tape to BOT.

UNLOAD

Switch -- If tape is loaded at BOT, pressing
this switch causes tape to unload from the
take-up reel and tape path onto the supply
reel. If tape is loaded beyond BOT, it rewinds
to BOT. If tape is threaded, but not loaded,
pressing the switch causes the transport to
unload tape slowly onto the supply reel.

ON-LINE

Switch -- If tape is loaded, pressing this
switch causes the transport to become available
to the host system. Press the RESET switch to
take the ttansport off-line.
Indicator -- When on, ON-LINE indicates that
the transport is available for on-line
operation. All switches except RESET are
inhibited.

HIGH DENSITY

Indicator -- When on, HIGH DENSITY indicates
that the transport is selected by the host
system for GCR operation.

2-3

Table 2-1

Operator Controls (Cont)

Switch/Indicator

Function

FAULT/RESET

Indicator -- When on, FAULT indicates that the
transport is in fault or diagno~tic status. The
3-digit display may contain a fault or
diagnostic code.
Switch -- When pressed, RESET places the
transport off-line, stops tape motion and
clears error status. The switch can stop a load
or rewind operation. it also turns off the
fault indicator and clears a diagnostic test
condition.

Table 2-2

Diagnostic Controls

Switch/Indicator

Function

DIAGNOSTIC

Indicator -- When on, DIAGNOSTIC indicates that
the transport is in the diagnostic/test mode.
The indicator remains on until the RESET switch
is pressed.

TEST -

Switch -- If the transport is not on-line
and/or has tape threaded, but not loaded,
pressing this switch places the transport in
the diagnostic/test mode.

STEP

Switch -- If the transport is in the
diagnostic/test mode (and the test number is
displayed), pressing this switch allows the
diagnostic/test sequence numbers in the 3-digit
display to increment to a required digit.

EXECUTE

Switch -- If the transport is in the
diagnostic/test mode (and the test number is
displayed), pressing this switch initiates the
internal diagnostic test shown on the 3-digit
display.

Switch -- If the transport is in the
diagnostic/test mode, this switch helps to
recall and run Field Service diagnostics.

2-4

Table 2-3

Special Controls

Switch/Indicator

Function

CONTR FAULT
(TU81 Subsystem)

Indicator -- When on, it indicates the TMSCP
interface controller fault condition until
cleared by the TU81 or host computer.
Switch -- With the CONTR FAULT indicator on,
pressing this switch causes the transport to
attempt to clear the fault condition. If the
fault is corrected (through either the
transport or the host computer), the CONTR
FAULT indicator goes off and the transport is
available to the host again.

CONTR FAULT
(TA81 Subsystem)

Indicator -- When on, it indicates the ST!
controller fault condition until cleared by the
transport or HSC.
Switch -- With the CONTR FAULT indicator on,
the ST! controller remains in the same
connection state relative to HSC. Pressing this
switch for the first time stops transport
transmission to the HSC. Pressing it a second
time causes the ST! controller to attempt to
clear the fault condition.
If this attempt is successful, the CONTR FAULT
indicator goes off and the transport is
available to the HSC again.
If the ST! controller is unable to clear the
fault condition, the CONTR FAULT indicator
remains on, and the transport becomes
unavailable to the HSC for system generated
diagnostics and failure correction.

NOTE
When the
interface controller fails
(CONTR FAULT is on), the 3-digit display
shows
no error
code. The
display
continues to show the unit number.
PORT A
PORT B

TA81 Only -- Pressing either of these switches
selects the corresponding interface channel to
the I/O controller (and the host computer). The
indicator shows the active (selected) port.
CAUTION
Complete dual-port functionality is not
presently supported under VMS.
If,
however, both ports are cabled, only one
port switch should be enabled at one
2-5

Port Switch Operation
Through two I/O ports, the TA81 connects to the HSC controllers,
which control the mass storage subsystems of several computer
systems. The I/O port becomes operational when the transport is
on-line and the I/O channel is selected through the corresponding
port switch. If this switch is disabled with the transport
on-line, the transport cannot be disconnected from I/O port until
ON-LINE is also disabled.
ASCII Port Test Panel
This panel contains the connectors for an ASCII terminal that runs
a wide spectrum of general and unique diagnostic tests. For more
information on this ASCII port, refer to the technical manual and
the service and maintenance guides for the TU81 and TA81
subsystems (Table 1-1).
OPERATOR'S HINTS
The following list provides information to help you operate the
TU81 and T~81.
•

When the LOGIC ON indicator is on, all control panel
switches and indicators are functional, except the LOGIC
OFF indicator.

•

The ON-LINE switch can be pressed while tape is loading.
The transport goes on-line immediately when loaded.

•

When the FAULT/RESET indicator is on, the control panel
is not operable, except for RESET switch. To turn the
indicator off, press the RESET switch.

•

Tape unloads at low speed. If the take-up reel has a lot
of tape and you wish to unload it quicker, press LOAD
REWIND first and then press UNLOAD.

•

The HIGH DENSITY indicator comes on when GCR information
is being processed.

OPERATING PROCEDURE
The operating procedure includes preparing and loading the tape
reel, powering on the transport, placing it on-1 i ne to the host
computer, and checking its operational status. If a fault code
appears
in
the
3-digit display during
loading
or
routine
operation, refer to "Corrective Action" in this chapter.
Inserting the Write-Enable Ring
Before mounting the reel of tape onto the supply hub, determine
whether the tape will be recording (write operation). If so, place
a write-enable ring into the bot tom, recessed part of the reel
(Figure 2-4) •

2-6

WRITEENABLE
RING

WRITE- - - - i - - W / /
ENABLE
RING
GROOVE

REEL
MA-008""82

Figure 2-4

Write-Enable Ring

When the reel is prepared, proceed as follows.
Threading and Loading the Tape
Perform this procedure to thread tape and then load it.
1.

Pul 1 the cover latch toward the front and 1 i ft the top
access door. Make sure the power switch is in the on (1)
position.
NOTE
Keep the circuit breaker on the 8 7 4
power controller in the on position all
the time.
The power switch can also be in the on
position all the time to allow the CPU
to
control
the
transport
remotely,
provided the power controller is in
remote mode.

If all de voltages are present, the LOGIC ON and FILE PRO
indicators must be on.
NOTE
If the power supply fails at power-on
(or later), the LOGIC OFF indicator goes
on, and the display may show a fault
code.
Ref er to Chapter 3 for information on
the power-on health check.

Press
hub.

the

inner button on

2-7

the

face of the

supply reel

0
MA·OOIS-82

Figure 2-5

Tape Path

Mount the supply reel onto the hub so the reel is seated
on the bottom flange. Secure the reel by pressing the
periphery of the hub face to latch the reel.

Thread magnetic tape through the tape path as
Figure 2-5.

shown

Wrap the tape leader (a length of tape before
marker) onto the take-up reel for several turns.

the BOT

CAUTION
sure
the
tape
is
positioned
Make
correctly over all tape path components,
otherwise tape may be damaged.
7.

Close and latch the top cover.

2-8

Press the LOAD/REWIND switch. In 1 second, air pressure
builds at the air bearings and the tape starts moving
forward. This motion stops when the transport detects the
BOT marker on the tape. If you overthreaded the tape and
positioned the BOT marker after the sensor, the tape
moves forward for about 40 feet. Then the transport
reverses the tape until the transport detects the BOT
marker. At this moment, tape motion stops and the BOT
indicator comes on.
NOTE
If LOAD fails and the tape does not move
to BOT, check for the BOT marker on the
tape. If there is no BOT marker, attach
one by following the instructions in
Chapter 4.

Press the ON-LINE switch to make the transport available
to the host computer. You can press the switch while
loading is in progress. When the tape is completely
loaded, the transport indicates on-line status by turning
on the ON-LINE indicator. (If the transport is ready for
a write operation, the FILE PRO indicator goes off.) Now
the transport is ready for use.

10.

For the TA81 only, press either or both of the interface
channel selection buttons (PORT A or PORT B) to select
the appropriate host interface channels.

Unloading the Tape
The following procedures are
on-1 ine mode.

for

unloading

tape manually or

Manual Mode -- Perform this procedure to unload tape manually.
1.

Press the RESET switch to place the transport off-line.

2..

Press the UN-WAD--sw-itGh. Tape reverses (rewind), gently
winding onto the supply tape reel until it clears the
take-up reel and the tape path.
NOTE
If loaded beyond the BOT marker,
tape rewinds to BOT.

the

Open the top cover and press the center button of the
supply reel hub. The hub unlatches. Remove the supply
reel.

Close the top cover to prevent dust accumulation on the
tape deck components.

2-9

On-Line Mode -- When the transport is on-1 ine to the host CPU,
unloading can be done under CPU control. To remove the reel,
perform steps 3 and 4 above.
Pump Shutdown
If the transport does not receive a new command from the CPU
within 1 minute, the transport automatically shuts down its
pressure pump (compressor) and removes power from the reel motors.
Tape position continues to
be monitored by the
transport
microprocessor and if motion of the take-up reel is detected,
power is re-applied to the take-up reel to renull its position.
If the transport enters the shutdown mode, execution of the first
command received from the CPU is delayed by about 1 second.
CORRECTIVE ACTION
When you power on the transport (set the power switch to the on
position), it performs the power-on health check. This check
validates all de voltages applied and tests the control panel
indicators.
If a power failure is detected at this time (or any other time
during use), the LOGIC OFF indicator goes on and a fault code may
be indicated in the display.
Press the RESET button and turn off the power. Then turn the power
on again to repeat the power-on health check. If this action does
not help to eliminate the malfunction, report the problem and the
displayed fault code (if indicated) to service personnel.
CAUTION
Do not try to locate and correct the
malfunction yourself.
A fault can occur during a load or read/write operation. If the
host computer cannot correct the fault and the transport takes
itself off-line, the 3-digit display shows the fault code. See
Table 2-4 for a list of fault codes and corresponding corrective
actions.
You can check the transport's operating condition with the
built-in, basic diagnostic test 01 (see Chapter 3). You can use
this test to check the basic operating functions of the transport,
or to verify a malfunction when a fault code indicates transport
failure.
Refer to Chapter 3 for test information. Table 2-4 lists the fault
codes and corrective actions.

2-10

Table 2-4

Corrective Actions

Fault Code

Action

E01 to 09

Clean the magnetic head and tape path. Follow the
instructions in Chapter 4.

El~

Make sure the cover door is securely closed.

Ell

Thread the tape.

El2

Latch the supply reel hub.

El3

Thread the tape correctly as shown on the tape
threading diagram.

El4

Check for a BOT marker on the tape. Attach a BOT
marker by following the instructions in Chapter 4.

ElS

This fault code indicates that the RESET switch was
pressed inadvertently. Reinitiate the test.

El6

Install the write-enable ring in the supply tape reel
if not present.

El7

Check for a EOT marker on the tape. Attach a EOT
marker by following the instructions in Chapter 4.

El8

The tape was loaded when the test was initiated.
Thread the tape, but do not press the LOAD switch.

E20 to 29

Mount a tape of known good quality.

All others

Try to run diagnostic test 01 (see Chapter 3) and
then report a fault code to Field Service.

2-11

CHAPTER 3
CUSTOMER DIAGNOSTICS

GENERAL
Built-in
operator diagnostics allow you
to
test
transport
performance. Run the diagnostics to check the transport after a
long idle period, or to troubleshoot a fault.
OPERATOR TROUBLESHOOTING
If the transport fails, you can make a few minor checks to isolate
an easily correctable malfunction before calling Field Service.
1.

Make sure the tape has a BOT marker.

For a write operation, make sure the tape reel has
write-enable ring installed.

Make sure the tape path is clean.

Make sure the power switch is on (1).

In case of power failure, make sure the power controller
circuit breaker is on.

Make sure the top cover door is closed and latched.

If the host computer reports data
(read/write)
errors,
"first aid." Clean the tape path as described in Chapter 4.
NOTE
During
cleaning,
take
the
time
to
inspect the tape path components for
defects (damaged tape cleaner blades,
loose
air
bearings,
cracked
or
misaligned reel flanges causing contact
with
tape
edges).
Cleaning
and
inspecting
components
takes
only
minutes, but goes a long way toward
maintaining
the
reliability
of
the
transport and minimizing downtime.
If cleaning does not solve the problem,
then replace the reel of tape with a
tape of "known-good quality," used only
for testing. If the fault persists after
these procedures, then report the fault
to Field Service.
3-1

the

use

Error Reporting
When the transport is on-line, you may notice an abnormal
condition through a message on the system's monitor screen or the
printer. The host system should retain or log the message so Field
Service can determine not only the type of fault, but also all the
circumstances under which the fault occurred.
OPERATOR DIAGNOSTIC PROCEDURE
The operator diagnostics include the power-on health check and one
user-oriented, selectable test (01), which runs for about 10
minutes with a 2400-foot tape reel.
'Faults found during the tests stop the test and display a
numerical fault code on the 3-d ig it display. Log any fault code
and give it to Field Service when you report the problem.
Power-On Health Check
The transport automatically performs the power-on heal th check
when the power switch (circuit breaker) in the far, right corner
of the tape deck is set on (1).
This
built-in
diagnostic
checks
de
power
distribution
(availability of all required de voltages on the electronic
modules'
inputs)
and normal operation of the control panel
indicators.
If the check is successful, all indicators momentarily go on and
off. Then the LOGIC ON and FILE PRO indicators light, indicating
normal stand-by operating condition. The 3-digit display shows the
unit number.
NOTE
The LOGIC ON and LOGIC OFF indicators
are de power 1 ights. LOGIC ON shows
normal power status; LOGIC OFF shows
power failure.
If a power failure is detected at power-on, a fault code may
appear on the 3-digit display, the LOGIC OFF and FAULT/RESET
indicators come on, and the LOGIC ON indicator goes off.
NOTE
If the fault code is not listed in Table
2-4, call Field service.

3-2

Diagnostic Test 01
This test examines the operating characteristics of the transport
and points to the external (operator) or internal (hardware)
causes of the failure.
The following are some external causes of failure that can be
corrected by the operator.
Dirt in the tape path
Worn, damaged, or incorrectly written tape
Incorrectly threaded tape
No write-enable ring when one is required
Unlocked top cover
Tape that does not conform to Digital's specifications
Internal causes are hardware (mechanical and electronic)
that require intervention from Field Service.

problems

CAUTION
Test 01
reads and writes on tape.
Therefore, remove any mounted tape to
save the data on it. Replace it with a
tape of known-good quality reserved for
this purpose.
To eliminate the possibility of false displays due to a display
panel failure, the first portion of diagnostic test 01 is an
exercise of the display panel indicators. The numerical display
increments from 000 through 999. Concurrent with the numerical
display, the following indicators are on: FILE PRO, LOGIC ON,
ON-LINE, RESET and DIAGNOSTICS, HIGH DENSITY.
Pretest conditions are as follows.
NOTE
Make sure the 874 power controller's
circuit breaker is___on.
1.

Make sure the power switch is in the on (1) position. If
a fault occurs at power-on, do not attempt further
testing. Report the fault code to Field Service.

Thread the tape through the
take-up reel, but DO NOT LOAD.

Close and latch the top cover.

3-3

tape path

and

onto

the

Use the following procedure to perform test @1.

Disable the Port switches (TA81 only).

Press the RESET switch.

Press the TEST switch on the diagnostic portion of the
control panel.

The DIAGNOSTICS indicator goes on.

The display indicates 01.

Press the EXECUTE switch.
a.

Test 01 starts with the display panel incrementing
from 000, 111, 222 through 999. Make sure all
segments of the numerical display are functioning.

Make sure all indicators except LOGIC OFF, BOT, and
FAULT/RESET are on.

Test en continues with various tape motion and
read/write exercises for about 10 minutes (with 2400
feet of tape) •

If the test runs to completion, the transport performs a rewind
and unload operation and the 3-digit display indicates 00, with
the FAULT/RESET indicator on. Press the RESET switch to get out of
the diagnostic mode.
Perform the following procedure if the test is not successful.
l.

The diagnostic program halts and a numerical fault code
appears on the dis play, with the FAULT/RESET indicator
on. Record this number.

Refer to Table 2-4 for corrective action.
NOTE
Run test 01 again after performing any
corrective
action.
If
the
test
is
successful,
return
the
transport
to
normal operation. If the fault is not
resolved, proceed with step 3.

If the corrective action did not correct the fault,
report the number recorded in step 1, or any other fault
code, to Field Service.
NOTE
Press the RESET switch to get out of
diagnostic mode or to clear the fault
condition and repeat the test.

3-4

UNIT NUMBER
The unit number is a unit address feature. It gives each transport
a unique code (from 0 to 255) that the host computer recognizes.
This number is especially useful in a multidrive configuration
because it allows you to re-address a peripheral device from one
transport to another in case of emergency (transport failure,
connection breakdown) •
The unit number is a 3-digit code that you enter from the
transport's control panel with procedure 04. This code is stored
in the transport's nonvolatile memory (that retains stored data in
case of any power fluctuations or failure) until you enter new
unit numbers. The transport's display indicates the unit number
when the transport is powered on and when it is in its normal
on-line, off-line, or tape-unloaded status. A fault code or test
number replaces the unit number only during a fault condition or a
diagnostic test (run from the control panel).
To enter the unit
following example.

number,

use procedure

shown

the

Example
To enter unit number '201,' proceed as follows.
Procedure

Indication

Press TEST once.

DIAGNOSTICS lights with a display of
01.

Press STEP three times.

Press EXECUTE.

000

Press STEP twice.

002

Press TEST twice.

200

Press

201

s-T~P

once.

To store that unit number in the transport's memory, proceed as
follows.
Procedure

Indication

Press EXECUTE once.

Press RESET once to
return the transport
to the operating
condition.

201

3-5

CHAPTER 4
CARE AND PREVENTIVE MAINTENANCE

MAGNETIC TAPE BASICS
Magnetic tape is a narrow ribbon of a stable polyester with a thin
coating of needle-like particles of magnetic iron oxide bound to
it. These particles are uniformly dispersed in the coating and can
be permanently magnetized in such a way that information can be
coded onto the tape. Unless accidentally or intentionally altered,
data is there to stay.
For many years people have relied on magnetic tape for processing
data and for storing current and historical information. Recent
advances
in
tape
technology
have
made
it
possible
for
manufacturers to develop a product that is strong and resilient,
more
resistent
to
solvents,
and
more
stable
in
varying
temperatures and humidities than ever before.
Magnetic tape is sold in standard lengths (for example, 600 ft,
1200 ft, and 2400 ft) around a rigid plastic hub. Plastic flanges
extend from the hub on both sides to protect the edges of the
wound tape.
Data can be written on tape in a variety of densities, usually
described in bits per inch, or BPI. Until recently the most common
density was 200 BPI. Now 1600 BPI is the industry standard and
there is a move toward packing bits even more densely. With the
introduction of 6250 BPI into the marketplace, tape sensitivity
become~E-_very important_ issue.
This sensitivity, combined with
the fact that tapes are often run at speeds approaching 250 inches
per secondt proves that an error-free tape can be rendered
worthless with only a little mishandling.
This chapter outlines good tape handling and storing procedures so
that you can optimize tape reliability. Because most problems
encountered with tape are physical rather than operational,
careful handling of magnetic tape can make a difference. Good
procedures are a matter of common sense more than technical
expertise.

4-1

MAGNETIC TAPE CARE
Al though magnetic tape is not fragile in the usual sense of the
word, adverse environmental conditions, exposure to contaminants,
and careless physical handling can cause serious damage. Figure
4-1 shows types of tape damage that can occur. Proper storage and
handling can insure a greater likelihood of top quality data
retrieval and prevent tape damage •

.::_~STRETCHED/
TAPE

:::

1c___

SNAPPE07
TAPF

----' ~~-,---·------

~
~

SHEARED/
TAPE
OXIDE
H'JLE

LONGITUDINAL/
CREASES

OXIDE
DUMP

\
\

FOREIGN PARTICLE AND
CORRESPONDING DE7

.:---------:;

~
---------

EDGE~

DAMAGE

SHR-0116-8~

Figure 4-1

Tape Damage

4-2

Tape Storage
Follow these precautions when storing magnetic tape.
1.

When storing reels of tape, use one of the following
protective covers to protect the tape from contamination
and physical abuse.
•

Canisters
These
rigid
containers
completely
enclose a tape, protecting it from dirt as well as
physical shocks. Keep empty canisters tightly closed
to guard against dust and dirt.

•

Tape collars or "seals" -- These flexible plastic
collars stabilize the tape reel's flanges at their
outside circumference, sealing the tape inside.

•

Tape cartridges -- These include a collar that never
has to be removed: it is designed to be used on tape
systems with auto-load options.

Do not store magnetic tape near electric motors or
other magnetic sources that can erase data.

Do not place magnetic tape near printers or other devices
that produce paper dust.

Do not place magnetic tape where
hot air.

Do not smoke near the transport or storage area. Tobacco
smoke and ash are especially damaging to tapes.

Store tapes in an environment where the temperature and
humidity are in the ranges listed below. A good rule of
thumb is to keep room temperature around 20oC (70oF) and
the relative humidity at about 40 percent.

it can be affected by

Storage Environment
Temperature Range: s 0 c to 32°c (40°F to 90°F)
Relative Humidity Range: 20% to 80%

4-3

any

Magnetic Tape Handling
Follow these precautions when handling magnetic tape.
1.

Always handle tape reels by the hub hole. Since the hub
is the strongest part of a reel of tape, you should grasp
the reel with your fingers through the center of the hub
and your thumb on the outside circumference of the reel.
(See Figure 4-2.)

Figure 4-2

Correct Tape Handling

4-4

Never handle a tape by the reel flanges, since it could
damage the tape edges as shown in Figure 4-3. This type
of damage ruins the tape's outer recording areas.

Do not expose magnetic tape to dust or dirt. Most tape
read errors are caused by dust or dirt on the read/write
head.

Never touch the port ion of tape between the BOT and EOT
markers. Oil from fingers attracts dust and dirt.

Figure 4-3

Tape Edge Damage

4-5

Never use a contaminated reel of tape. This spreads dirt
to the clean
tape reels and can adversely affect
transport reliability. Figure 4-4 shows the relative size
of tape, tape head, and typical contaminants.

When mounting a tape on a drive, press on the hub, not on
the flanges. Be sure that the reel is evenly and securely
seated so that the tape tracks smoothly in the tape path.

Do not expose magnetic tape to excessive heat. The
operating environment should
as nearly as possible
approach clean room conditions. Keep the environment in
the temperature and humidity ranges listed below. A good
rule of thumb is to keep room temperature around 70°F and
the relative humidity at about 40 percent.
Operating Environment
0

Temperature Range: 15 C to 32 C (60 F to 9A F)
Relative Humidity Range: 2A% to 8A%

OXIDE
0.00045 IN.
HUMAN HAIR
0.004 IN. DIA.
LINT AND
DUST

BACKING~
0.00145 IN.

....... ....._

____ __,

,.-II

,,- .....

' \
I
\

' ... _.."

HEAD
PLATE
SHllll·CU7NI

Figure 4-4

Relative Size of Tape Contaminants

4-6

If possible, increase the air pressure in the computer
room to prevent infiltration of dust from other areas, as
shown in Figure 4-5. Also, if you use a vacuum cleaner
when cleaning, be sure . to have it exhaust outside the
area.

When you bring a tape that has been in transit or in
storage into your work area, give it 24 hours to
acclimate itself to the new environment, especially if it
has been exposed to extremes in temperature and/or
humidity.

CCl

o~~IB'ILJtEJ ~ ~ ~

==_J_.L.--

Figure 4-5

Operating Environment (Positive Room Pressure)

4-7

CUSTOMER RESPONSIBILITIES
Digital's
tape
transports
are
highly
reliable,
precision
instruments that provide years of trouble-free performance when
correctly maintained.
A program of
routine
inspection
and
maintenance is essential for optimum performance and reliability.
The following information will help you care for the equipment.
You are responsible for the following ste?s in caring for the TU81
and TA81 tape subsystems.
1.

Obtain operating supplies,
cleaning supplies.

including

magnetic

tape

and

Keep the exterior of the system and the surrounding area
clean.

Make sure the ac power plugs are securely plugged in each
time the equipment is used.

Perform the specific operations
for
equipment care
described in this chapter at the suggested periods, or
more often if usage and environment warrant.

Also, Digital recommends that you take these steps.
1.

Maintain the required logs and report files consistently
and accurately.

Make the necessary documentation available in a location
convenient to the system.

CUSTOMER MAINTENANCE
To guarantee trouble-free operation, keep a preventive maintenance
(PM) schedule. Preventive maintenance consists of cleaning only a
few items, but the cleanliness of these items is essential to
correct transport operation. The frequency of maintenance varies
with the environment and the amount of use the transport receives.
Therefore, a rigid schedule for all machines is difficult to
define.
Digital recommends daily cleaning for transports in
constant operation in ordinary environments. Modify this schedule
if experience shows other periods are more suitable.
Before any cleaning,
remove the supply reel
correctly. When cleaning, be gentle, but thorough.

and

CAUTION
Do not use acetone, lacquer thinrier,
rubbing alcohol, or trichlorethylene to
clean the tape path.

4-8

store

Magnetic Tape Transport Cleaning Kit
Digital has carefully assembled a magnetic tape transport cleaning
kit (TUC01) to provide cleaning materials that do not harm tape
equipment or leave residue to interfere with data reliability.
Follow the hints in the following paragraphs to get the best
results from the kit.
The cleaning fluid in this kit is one of the best cleaners
available. Unscrew the top and punch a small hole in the metal
seal covering the pour spout.
WARNING
When using DECmagtape cleaning fluid,
avoid excessive skin contact and contact
with the eyes. Do not swallow it. use
the cleaning fluid
only in a well
ventilated area.
CAUTION
When cleaning the tape equipment, never
dip a dirty cleaning swab or wipe into
the can. Instead pour a little onto the
swab or wipe. use the smallest amount of
cleaning fluid necessary. Do not soak
the swab or wipe in the cleaning fluid.
Always keep the can of fluid tightly closed when not in use. The
fluid evaporates rapidly when exposed to air.
Use the cleaning materials from the kit to clean tape heads, tape
guides, tape cleaner, and any part of the drive where residue
could contact the tape. To clean other parts of the drive, such as
the exterior tape deck surface and doors, use any reasonably
clean, lint-free material with or without cleaning fluid.
CAUTION
To clean exterior surfaces,
soap and water.

use only

If you encounter any unusually stubborn dirt that resists the
cleaner, try a mild soap and water solution. After using soap, be
sure to wash the area thoroughly with cleaning fluid to remove
soapy residue.

4-9

Reflective Tape Markers
Every reel of magnetic tape must have a BOT and EOT reflective
marker so the transport can recognize starting and stopping areas.
Tapes are always supplied with reflective markers on them.
However, if the markers detach for any reason or if a tape leader
is shortened because of tape damage, then install a marker at the
position shown in Figure 4-6.

HUB END

7.62m
(25 ft)

EQT

-1

TAPE

0.07 cm
(0.03 in)

E~GE CLOSEST

TO OPERATOR

"
0.07 cm
(0.03 in)

SHINY
BACK SIDE

i.BOT

4.B7 :0.60 cm

MAGNETIC~

(16 :2 ft)

SIDE

HUB

~END

RIM
END......_

FRONT VIEW
OF TAPE WIND

RIM END
!BEGINNING)

Figure 4-6

BACK
SIDE

Reflective Tape Markers

4-10

Cleaning the Transport
All transport components that need regular cleaning are on the
tape deck. These components include the magnetic head assembly,
EOT/BOT sensor, tape cleaner, and air bearings. Also, you should
regularly examine and clean (as required) the top of the tape
deck, reel hubs, and top cover door.
To reach the magnetic head components (Figure 4-7), pull up the
2-part dust cover for the head assembly from the tape deck.

DUST COVERS

TAPE CLEANER

UPPER AIR
BEARING

EOT/BOT SENSOR

MAGNETIC HEAD

LOWER AIR
BEARING

Figure 4-7

Magnetic Head/Tape Path Components

MA·0087-82

4-11

Magnetic Heads
magnetic heads.
1.

Use

the

following

procedure

clean

Clean the magnetic head working surface with a
lint-free wipe moistened with the cleaning fluid.

the

soft,

NOTE
Wipe
the head surf ace
in
the same
direction that the tape travels during
data recording (forward motion) •
2.

Clean the area next to the head of any dirt that can be
transported with the tape.

Air Bearings -- use the following procedure to clean the air
bearings.
1.

Clean both air bearings with a
cleaning fluid.

Make sure the foil area, guide springs, and both tape
guides are clear of any oxide and dirt buildup. If
available, use a small mirror to inspect the inner edge
of the guides.

swab moistened with

the

Top Cover, Tape Deck, and Head Assembly oust Covers -- To prevent
the transfer of dirt to the tape components, do not allow dust or
dirt to accumulate on the inside of the dust cover. Clean the
inside cover surface with a clean, lint-free wioe and any cleaning
fluid that is safe for plastic, painted surfaces.

4-12

Inspection of Tapes and Equipment
In addition to following a regular preventive maintenance schedule
on the equipment, it is a good idea to visually inspect the
equipment frequently. For instance, check the tape transport after
running a tape to be certain that no debris has collected there.
Clean it often, since contaminants that have collected on the tape
head or guides can easily contaminate a new tape. Check empty
reels for defects such as cracks or rough spots since these can
damage the edges of the tape that is wound on them; warped uneven
reels can cause uneven winding and edge damage as shown in Figure

4-8.

STEPPED WIND

EVEN WIND
St-+F!. 0181-S!i
0

Figure 4-8

Uneven (Stepped)

4-13

and Even Wind

LONG TERM STORAGE
Data is often backed up on tape and stored to keep it safe in case
primary disks or tapes fail, are lost, or are destroyed. When
properly maintained, there is no reason that tapes cannot remain
viable for many years.

Tapes that remain in vaults for long periods of time are subject
to certain problems. For example, temporary tape errors tend to
become permanent errors with time. Compression on tape layers can
eventually distort the shape of reels of tape hanging from tape
collars, causing them to become egg shaped rather than round.
variations in warehouse conditions may cause a condition called
cinching.
Cinching
occurs
with
the
slight
expansion
and
contraction of the tape, alternately loosening and binding the
tape and ultimately adversely affecting the way the tape is wound,
as shown in Figure 4-9.

SHFll..0182-85

Figure 4-9

Cinching

To prevent these problems, exercise the tapes regularly. For
example, unwind and rewind each tape on an annual or semi-annual
schedule. This can remove errors and redistribute the stresses
that build up. Another approach is to randomly sample and read a
percentage of the tape library on a regular basis. This can detect
problem areas and alert you to the need to recopy or reconstruct
data.
SHIPPING MAGNETIC TAPES
When packing magnetic tape for shipment, take precautions to
protect it from being damaged in transit. Carefully secure the
ends of the tapes using both the hold-down sponge and a vinyl
strip for added safety. Use containers that can withstand dropping
and other rough handling. Consider using materials that provide
protection from water damage in case your shipment is exposed to
moisture.

4-14

Bulk packing material used between individual reels and between
the reels and the container serves serveral purposes. It separates
the reels from one another, evenly distributes stress from impact,
and provides some protection to the tapes in the event that the
shipment is exposed to a magnetic field. Three inch spacing is
considered adequate protection.
ACCESSORIES AND SUPPLIES
To use the TU81 and TA81 tape subsystems efficiently, you should
have the following accessories and supplies.
Magnetic tape cleaning kit (TUC01)
Magnetic tapes
BOT/EOT marker tape (PN 90-09177-00)
Ordering
Forward
purchase
orders
for
supplies,
documentation to the following address.

accessories,

Digital Equipment Corporation
Accessories and Supplies Group
PO Box CS2008
Nashua, New Hampshire 03061
Contact your local sales office or call DECdirect catalog sales
toll-free at (800) 258-1710 from 8:30 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Eastern
Standard Time (U.S. customers only). Customers from New Hampshire,
Alaska, and Hawaii should dial
( 603)
884-6660. Terms and
conditions include net 30 days and FOB Digital plant. Freight
charges will be prepaid by Digital and added to the invoice. The
minimum order is $35.00. The minimum does not apply when full
payment is submitted with an order. Checks and money orders should
be made out to Digital Equipment Corporation.
DIGITAL REPAIR SERVICE
Digital Field Service offers a range of flexible service plans.
On-Site Service offers the convenience of service at your site and
insurance against unplanned repair bills. For a small monthly fee,
you receive personal service from our Service Specialists. Within
a few hours, the specialist is dispatched to your site with
equipment and parts to give you fast and dependable maintenance.
Basic Service offers full coverage from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday
through Friday. Options are available to extend your coverage to
12-, 16-, or 24-hour days, and to Saturdays, Sundays, and
holidays.
DECservice offers a premium, on-site service that guarantees
extra-fast response and nonstop, remedial maintenance. We don't
leave until the problem is solved, which makes this service
contract ideal for those who need uninterrupted operations.
Under Basic Service and DECservice, all parts, materials, and
labor are covered in full.
4-15

Carri-In Service offers fast, personalized response, and the
ability to plan your maintenance costs for a smaller monthly fee
than on-Site Service. When you bring your unit to one of 160
Digital Servi centers worldwide, factory-trained personnel repair
your unit within two days (usually 24 hours). This service is
available on selected terminals and systems. Contact your local
Digital Field Service office to see if this service is available
for your unit.
Digital Servicenters are open during normal business hours, Monday
through Friday.
DECmailer offers expert repair at a per use charge. This service
is for users who have the technical resources to troubleshoot,
identify, and isolate the module causing the problem. Mail the
faulty module to our Customer Returns Center where the module is
repaired and mailed back to you within five days.
Per Call Service offers a maintenance program on a noncontractual,
time-and-materials-cost basis. This service is available with
either On-Site or Carry-In Service.
It
is
appropriate for
customers
who
have
the
expertise
to
perform
first-line
maintenance, but may occasionally need in-depth support from Field
Service.
Per Call Service is also offered as a supplementary program for
Basic
Service customers who
need maintenance
beyond
their
contracted coverage hours. There is no materials charge in this
case.
On-Site Per Call Service is provided on a best effort basis, with
a normal response time of two to three days. It is available 24
hours a day, seven days a week.
Carry-In Per Call Service is available during normal business
hours, with a two to three day turnaround.
For more information on these Digital service plans, prices, and
special rates for volume customers, call one of the following
numbers for the location of the Digital Field Service office
nearest you.

4-16

Digital's International Field Service Information Numbers
U.S.A.
Canada
United Kingdom
Belgium
West Germany
Italy
Japan
France
Denmark
Spain
Finland
Holland
Switzerland
Sweden
Norway
Austria
Ireland
Portugal ·
Australia

1-(800)-554-3333
(800)-267-5251
(734) 868711
(02) 2425095
(089) 95910
'"2) 617961
(03)-989-7161
(6) 0778292
(2) 889666
(1) 7331900
(0) 423511
(30) 640293
(01) 829911
(8) 7338000
(2) 160290
(222) 6776410
(1) 308433
(1) 725402
(02) 4125555

4-17

CHAPTER 5
INSTALLATION

GENERAL
This chapter describes how to prepare a site for the TU81 and TA81
transport. It also describes how to unpack and install the
transport. The last section in this chapter provides information
on acceptance testing.
SITE PLANNING
Before installing a TU81 and TA81 tape subsystem, prepare a site
according to the following requirements.
Space Requirements
Figure 5-1 shows the transport dimensions and the space and
service clearances required for the cabinet (model H9643). Leave
enough space to open the front, rear, and top doors.
REAR
DOOR

,..
/

I
I

r ~ J"
129.5 cm
(51 in)

5cm
(73 in)

143 cm
(57 in)

129.5 cm
(51 in)

IHI 105.8 cm

L--

~=!I

54.6 cm
/
121.5 i n ) - - . /

TOP VIEW

NOTE: WITH H9544-MJ FOOT INSTALLED, THE UNIT
WIDTH IS 91.2 cm (34.25 in).

FRONT
VIEW

Figure 5-1

I
I
/

FRONT
DOOR

' " [ 1'1r-=

L(W)

MA·OOB9·82

Space Requirements
5-1

Power Requirements
The transport can be operated within 93 to 128 Vac, 60 Hz (120 Vac
nominal) or 187 to 256 Vac, 50 Hz (220 or 240 Vac nominal).
Frequency should not vary more than ~3 Hz.
The appropriate power plugs are provided with the transport. (See
the specifications in Chapter 1 for the plug's NEMA numbers.)
In the TU81 subsystem, the M8739 adapter module is installed in
the CPU. This module typically draws 4 A at +5 Vdc. No other
voltage is required. Power for the module comes from the host CPU
through dedicated pins on the CPU backplane.
In the TA81 subsystem, the TDC
backplane of the HSC controller.

module is

installed

the

Environmental Requirements and Limits
The transport should be in an area free from excessive dust, dirt,
corrosive fumes, and vapors. The bottom of cabinet and air vents
on the doors must not be obstructed. The operating environment
requirements are listed in the specifications in Chapter 1.
Tools Required
To install the transport, you need the following tools.
5/32 inch allen wrench
3/4 inch combination box and open-end wrench
7/16 inch, open-end wrench
9/16 inch, open-end wrench
5/16 inch nut driver
Number 2 phillips screwdriver
UNPACKING AND INSPECTION
This section describes how to unpack the transport and inspect it
for damage before installation.
Floor Loading and Routing
The transport is shipped in a cardboard container and is mounted
on a wooden skid. The shipping weight is 154 kg (340 lb). Check
the route the transport will travel to the installation site to
guarantee problem-free delivery. The transport's net weight is 139
kg (295 lb).

5-2

Unpacking
Figure 5-2 shows the unpacking
instructions in Figure 5-2.

procedure. Refer to

the numbered

To unpack the transport, proceed as follows.
1.

Cut and remove the shipping straps
container (1).

around the cardboard

Lift and remove the top container cover (2).

Carefully lift and remove the two ramps from the top of
the cabinet. Set them aside for future use.

STRAPS

CARTON

POLYBAG
REAR
STAEllLIZER
PACKAGE
H9544-MJ

COVER

RAMPS

MA·009D·B2

Figure 5-2

Unpacking the Transport
5-3

Lift and remove the protective carton (3).

Remove the top pad and polybag (3).

Remove the rear stabilizer package (H9544-MJ)
rear of the transport cabinet.

from the

NOTE
This package may not be supplied with
the transport. Refer to step 10 in
"Mechanical
Installation"
for
more
details.
7.

Securely attach the two ramps to the skid deck. Use
Figure 5-3 as a guide. Engage the ramps in the groove by
matching the arrows.

MA-0091·&2

Figure 5-3

Removing the Transport from the
Shipping Pallet with Ramps
5-4

Use a 9/16 inch wrench
shipping bolts and the
5-3).

to unbolt and remove the four
red shipping brackets (Figure

NOTE
The process of deskidding, or taking the
cabinet off the pallet (skid), is next.
TAKE EXTREME CARE!
CAUTION
The cabinet can be rolled only when the
leveler feet are raise'd.
9.

Roll the transport toward the ramp-attached side of the
skid by pushing gently on the front side of the cabinet.

10.

Gently slide the cabinet backward on the ramps. Hold the
transport firmly to prevent it from tipping. Let it roll
off the skid, down the ramps, and onto the floor.

11.

Remove the wooden ramps.
carton for future use.

Store

the

skid, ramps,

and

Inspection
After removing the transport from its container, inspect it and
report any damage to the responsible shipper and the local Digital
sales office.
Inspect the transport as follows.
1.

Inspect all panels, doors, door latches, and the control
panel for any obvious damage.

Using a 5/32 inch allen wrench, open the front and rear
doors. Inspect the cabinet for any foreign material and
loose or damaged components or cables.

Pull the top cover latch and lift the top cover. Inspect
the tape deck for broken glass, damaged magnetic head
components, and damaged reels.

Check for any foreign materials that may have lodged in
the tape reels. Rotate the supply and take-up reels.

Check the tape path for any sharp edges.
cover and the front and rear doors.

s-s

Close the top

OPERATION PREPARATIONS
Place the transport not further than 7 m (20 ft) from the host
CPU. Leave adequate space (Figure 5-1) for air circulation and
servicing.
Prepare for operation as follows.
Mechanical Installation
Use the following procedure to install the hardware.
1.

Roll the transport to its correct location.

NOTE
The transport should be in front of any
disk drive installed on the UNIBUS.
2.

Open the rear door and remove the cardboard box with the
TU81 accessory kit (TU81K-AC).

Remove the two screws holding the rear shipping bracket
to the frame stabilizing bar (Figure 5-4).

Turn the rear shipping bracket around to its normal
(transport operating) position and reinstall the two
mounting screws.

FRAME
STABILIZING
BAR

(SHIPPING
POSITION)

MA·0915-83

Figure 5-4

Rear Shipping Bracket

5-6

Open the front door
bar (Figure 5-5).

and remove the

horizontal shipping

NOTE
The transport has two more shipping
brackets that keep the logic PC boards
in
the
logic
cage secure
during
shipping. These brackets can stay intact
until you need to replace any of the
logic PC boards. Then, remove these
brackets as described in the maintenance
chapter of your service manual.
Return all shipping brackets to their
original (shipping) positions before any
reshipment.
Mechanical installation varies
(with or without a disk drive).

with the

cabinet

configuration

•
•

Figure 5-5

Removing the Front Shipping Bar

5-7

If a disk drive is in
skip to step 8.

Install
5-6).

the cabinet, proceed with

the extension

stabilizer (PN

step 6. If not,
H9544-HC) (Figure

Unwrap the stabilizer and mounting hardware.

Slide the
cabinet.

Fasten the tether cable to the
supplied hex screw.

Thread on the stabilizer's leveling foot.

stabilizer in place from

REAR

stabilizer with the

'1~:.:·.I

\ .

TETHER CABLE

the rear of the

•

•&.j

FRONT

fl-®

LEVELER
FOOT
M.a-0092·62

Figure 5-6

Cabinet Leveler Feet Assembly and
Extension Stabilizer

5-8

Lower the four leveler feet as shown in Figure 5-7.
a.

Lower the leveler foot to contact the floor.

Using a 3/4 inch, open-end wrench, turn the top nut
up to the top and tighten it.

Repeat for
transport.

Continue with "Electrical Connection."

the

remaining

feet to

stabilize

TO LOWER A FOOT

TO RAISE A FOOT

MA·009'3C-B2

Figure 5-7

Leveler Feet Adjustments

5-9

the

If a disk drive is not in the cabinet, proceed with step 8.
8.

Remove the two end (side) panels
shown in Figure 5-8.

and the rear

door as

Pull up the spring pins and remove the rear door
(Figure 5-SA). Remove the ground strap using a
5/16 inch nut driver.

Remove the door hinge brackets in the rear, bottom
left and right corners of the cabinet with a
7/16 inch, open-end wrench (Figure 5-8B}.

Remove the end panels by
from the unit.

Remove the ground
straps from the
panels with a 5/16 inch nut driver.

©REAR DOOR REMOVAL

lifting them up

and away

side

(end}

ENO PANEL REMOVAL

BOTTOM PANEL REMOVAL

MA..ocMM-82

Figure 5-8

.Cabinet Assembly

5-10

10.

Remove the two rear leveler feet (Figures 5-6 and 5-7).
a.

Using a 3/4 inch, open-end wrench, loosen and lower
the top nut on a foot.

Place a 9/16 inch, open-end wrench on the bottom nut
on a foot and turn the nut upward.

Back the foot off the floor, then pull it outward to
remove.

Unpack and install the
(Figure 5-9).

rear

stabilizer (PN

H9544-MJ)

11111111111

RING
•MAY NOT BE USED
MA-009S·82A

Figure 5-9

Rear Stabilizer Installation

5-11

NOTE
If you haven't received the H9544-MJ
stabilizer with your transport, your
transport may be equipped with the side
stabilizers as shown in Figure 5-10. If
so, skip this step completely.

I
Ji

I:
1

"\s1oe

STABILIZERS

SMR-017().85

Figure 5-10

Side Stabilizers

Install two couplers in the stabilizer base.

Slide the stabilizer under the rear bottom of the
cabinet so the couplers are directly under the
mounting slots.

Install the rectangular washers, retaining washers,
and hex screws. Do not tighten the screws yet.

5-12

Level the cabinet by adjusting the couplers. Use a
screwdriver inserted into a hole in the coupler to
jack it up.
NOTE
To raise the cabinet, turn the coupler
counterclockwise. To lower the cabinet,
turn the coupler clockwise.

Slide the shim(s) in place in the mounting slots.

Tighten the hex screw(s) with a 3/4 inch box wrench
and number 2 phillips screwdriver.

11.

Adjust the leveler feet to stabilize the cabinet (Figure
5-7). Use the 3/4-inch and 9/16-inch, open-end wrenches.

12.

Replace the end panels and the rear door on the cabinet,
and re-attach the ground straps.
NOTE
If you need to move the transport to
another location within the room, raise
the leveler feet. Release the nuts on
the feet with the 3/4 inch and 9/16
inch, open-end wrenches (Figure 5-7).
Then pull each foot up to the top.

Electrical Connection
Use the following procedure to connect the transport to power.
NOTE
Check the transport's data (ID) plate
for power specifications. Make sure the
local line voltage and frequency are
compatible with the specifications.
1.

Make sure the power ON/OFF circuit breaker on the 874
power controller is in OFF position and the REMOTE/LOCAL
switch is set to the REMOTE position (Figure 5-11).

Connect the remote power switching cable from the 874
power controller (any of the four connectors) to the CPU
(or HSC) power controller. Turn the system's circuit
breaker off.
NOTE
The TA81 is connected to and remotely
controlled
by a
HSC mass
storage
controller.

5-13

POWER CABLE TO
TU81/TA81
SUPPLY

POWER~
CIRCUIT
BREAKER

MA-0096- 82 A

Figure 5-11

874 Power Controller

3•

Make sure the power cable from the transport's power
supply is plugged into the ac connector on the power
controller.

Plug the power cord into a local power outlet. Set the
circuit ~reaker on the 874 power controller to ON.
NOTE

Refer to the
Chapter 1.

power specifications

Open the
on (1).

Turn the CPU power on. The LOGIC
control panel should go on.

transport's top cover and

set the power switch
ON indicator

NOTE

When installed, the transport should be
in the remote, power-on mode controlled
by the CPU (or HSC).

5-14

on the

Turn the CPU power off.
a.

Now, for a TU81, install the M8739 UNIBUS adapter and
interface the transport with the CPU.

For a TA81,
HSCs.

connect the transport

to one

(or two)

Grounding
The transport is grounded via a grounding line in the power cord.
No other grounding is required.
TU81-TO-HOST INTERFACING
This section provides information on
check the interface for TU81.

how to install,

cable, and

The TU81 communicates with the host computer via the UNIBUS/LES!
interface, which consists of the LES! I/O cables and the M8739
LES! module. The M8739 is a standard, quad-height PC card. It
plugs into a small peripheral controller (SPC) slot on the host
computer backplane. The module contains a switch pack and jumper
for setting the desired I/O address. Interrupt vector is not
hardware settable. The vector is software selectable from the host
computer at SYSGEN time.
The M8739 connects to the TU81 by a set of I/O cables. Figures
5-12 through 5-14 show the interface cable interconnections.
NOTE
Check for the CPU kit (TU81K-CP). If it
is shipped with the transport, the M8739
has to be installed in the CPU. Call for
the
authorized
Field
Service
representative to do this installation.
Refer to
the installation procedure
under "Add-On Configuration" in this
chapter.

5-15

::x-:-::Rf-.,.,::!.L /
1 ~~7ERF~CE

C,.:\B~E

'v'A-1 ~ :'0-83""

Interface Cabling

Figure 5-12

ITAPETRANSPoRT - - - - -,

I
TM SCP
CONTROLLEF
MODULE

\~8739

' 0
PANEL

_....J
(D Flat caoie
@ External snielded cable

~~ALE

L--

MALE

I
FORMATTER
MODULE

I
..,,,,
--MA-117Z 83A

Figure 5-13

Cabling Connections

5-16

Figure 5-14

Tape Deck Access
and Internal Cabling

Turnkey Configuration
If the TU81 is purchased (and supplied) as a part of the complete
system, the M8739 module and CPU internal ribbon cable should
already be installed. If so, all you need to do is connect the
TU81 and CPU with the external I/O cable supplied with the
transport.
·
TU81-to-Host External Cabling
Use the following procedure
computer.

cable

the TU81

the

host

NOTE
External cabling
is a user-oriented
procedure that does not require special
training.
1.

On the TU81, open the rear door and unroll the external
I/O cable (PN BC17i~20). The TU81 is shipped with this
cable plugged in and secured in the socket on the logic
cage panel (Figure 5-13). The flexible ribbon cable
connects the external I/O cable to the TMSCP interface
controller module inside the logic cage.
NOTE
Check
for
loose connections,
lost
mounting screws, and dangling cables or
wires.

Insert and secure the other plug of the external I/O
cable (PN BC17Y-20) into the available slot on the CPU
I/O bulkhead as shown on Figures 5-12 and 5-19.

Now continue with the TU81 acceptance diagnostic tests.

5-17

Add-On Configuration
If the TU81 is an add-on to the host system, the M8739 module must
be installed in the CPU with the CPU TU81 kit (TU81K-CP) and the
TU81 accessory kit (TU81K-AC).
The
following
performed by a
representative.

NOTE
procedures
must
be
trained Field Service

M8739 Preparation and Installation
describes how to install the M8739.

The following

procedure

Remove the M8739 module, the ribbon cable, the CPU's
bulkhead connector panels, and the mounting hardware from
the TU81K-CP shipping container. Unwrap and examine them
for damage.

On the M8739 module, select the correct UNIBUS address
with a single, 10-position DIP switchpack (location E44)
and jumper W2 (location E68).
Figures 15A and 15B show
the two versions of the M8739 module used with the TU81.
Refer to Figures 5-15 and 5-16, and Table 5-1 for address
settings.
NOTES
If this is the first TU81 on the host
CPU, just check the DIP switchpack and
the
jumper because
the module
is
factory-set for the basic (one drive)
configuration.
The typical UNIBUS address and vector
for
a
single
TU81
subsystem
configuration are specified in Table
5-1.
When more than one (up to four) TU81 is
installed with the host system, select
the UNIBUS addresses for the second,
third,
and
fourth
TU81
with
SYSGEN>CONFIG. SYSGEN>CONFIG shows the
available CSR addresses. Refer to the
example in Table 5-1.

Use the address setting diagram (Figure 5-16) to set the
UNIBUS address. Figure 5-16 shows the diagram for the
starting address 774500 in the basic configuration.

Set the switches on the IO-position, DIP switchpack
according to the diagram. Address bits 12 through 3 are
specified via the DIP switch. Address bits 17 through 13
are hardwired to be ls. Address bit 2 is set by the W2
jumper. Address bits 1 and 0 are ignored.
5-18

Plug the ribbon I/O cable (PN 70-19923) into
connector Jl on the M8739 module (Figure 5-15).

ON=l
OFF=O

CSR ADDRESS DIP SWITCH PACK

FLAT 1/0 CABLE

REFERENCE EDGE

NOTE: NOTICE THE POSITION OF ARROWS ON
CABLE CONNECTOR AND Jl CONNECTOR.
W2

•••

C B A
FOR A02=0. W2= A & B
FOR A02= 1, W2=B & C
MA 1166·83A
0

SHFl·0229·85

Figure 5-lSA

M8739 Module (Style A)

5-19

edge

FLAT 1/0 CABLE
PN 70-19923

REFERENCE~.'
EDGE

ON=1
OFF=O

CSR ADDRESS DIP SWITCHPACK

•••

C 8 A
FOR A02=0. W2=A & 8
FORA02•1,W2=B&C
MA 1166-83

SHA-0171-85

Figure 5-lSB

M8739 Module (Style B)

5-20

AlB

A17

A16

A15

A14

A13

A12

All

AlO

SlO

1
S1

SWITCH POSITIONS:
ON= Sl, S2, S5, S7
OFF = S3, 54, S6, SB, S9, SlO
X = UNSELECTABLE (HARDWIRED)
W2 JUMPER= 0
MA-1162·83

Figure 5-16

Address Selection Scheme

Table 5-1

Address Settings

Transport

Unit
Number

Address

Vector

Configuration

1745008

2608

1 (unit 0)

F94016

B016

CSR range
7600008 to
7777748

Vee tor range
3008 to
7008

2 to 4

2 to 4
(units 1-t3)

Example
Use the following SYSGEN procedure to find the
available CSR addresses and vectors. Then set in the CSR address
on the UNIBUS DIP switchpack (Figures 5-15 and 5-16).
$ MCR SYSGEN
SYSGEN> CONFIG
DEVICE> RK 611
DEVICE> DZll
DEV IC-&.> TUS l ,. 3
DEVICE> -z
DEVICE: RK611
DEVICE: TU81
DEVICE: DZll
DEVICE:: TU81
DEVICE: TU81
SYSGEN> -z

NAME:
NAME:
NAME:
NAME:
NAME:

DMA
PTA
TTA
PTB
PTC

CSR:
CSR:
CSR:
CSR:
CSR:

777400
774500
760100
760444
760450

5-21

VECTOR:
VECTOR:
VECTOR:
VECTOR:
VECTOR:

210
260
300
310
314

Turn off the power to the CPU.

On the CPU backplane, remove the G727 bus grant card from
the desired
SPC slot (Figure 5-17).
A bus grant
(continuity) card must be in connector D of any unused
SPC slot. Otherwise, bus grant continuity will be lost.

G727 iSHOWNJ OR G7270,
9G CONTINUITY, CARD
INSTALLS INTO CONNECTOR D
OF ANY~ SPC SLOT.

BACKPLANE (SLOT SIDE)

01 llic====iO F=====l====~O F=====1====::::1
02

03
04 ...lic===~Oll======ll=====IO I====== l=====

05
06

:Z:::::==:::::;o11====~t=====10 1======a===~

07
OB

NOTE
IF G7272 IS INSTALLED, IT FITS
INTO SLOTS C AND D.

Figure 5-17

!\llA..8785

UNIBUS Grant Continuity Card

5-22

Also in the same SPC slot, remove the nonprocessor grant
(NPG) jumper (CAl to CBl) on the pin side of the
backplane (Figure 5-18).

Carefully insert the M8739 module into the SPC slot.
NOTE
Examine the CPU for compliance with the
FCC installation specifications. The CPO
should have the I/O bulkhead connector
frame. If this frame is not installed,
refer to •rnstalling the I/O Bulkhead
Frame.•

u
0

M
0

0
0

NPG CONTINUITY
WIRE WRAP FOR
CONNECTOR C OF
ALL 9 SLOTS•

0
0

BACKPLANE (PIN SIDE)

*NOT USED IF G7273 CONTINUITY CARD IS USED.
MA·S773A

Figure 5-18

UNIBUS NPG Jumper

5-23

10.

Install and secure the I/O panel (PN 74-26407-13) on the
CPU's bulkhead f.rame at the bottom of the CPU cabinet
(Figures 5-12 and 5-19).

11.

Route the ribbon I/O cable from the M8739 through the CPU
cabinet down to the I/O frame and insert the cable
connector (female) into the I/O panel slot. Secure this
connector in its position with the two 4/40 hex standoffs
(PN 74-26407-13) provided.
NOTE

not
against
parts.
Do

chafe
other

the ribbon I/O cable
PC cards and chassis

12.

Insert the free plug of the external I/O cable from the
TU81 into this I/O slot, connecting both I/O cables.
Secure the connection with two screws (Figure 5-19).

13.

Power on the CPU and proceed
and TU81 acceptance testing.

with system initialization

CPU REAR
MA-1171·83

Figure 5-19

Installing the I/O Cables
on the CPU Bulkhead
5-24

Installing the I/O Bulkhead Frame
The following procedure
describes how to install the I/O bulkhead frame on the CPU for FCC
compliance.
1.

Mount the I/O panel (PN 74-26407-13) on the I/O frame (PN
74-27292-01) and secure it with two screws (Figure 5-19).

Install the I/O frame (with the I/O panel) on the CPU
rack. Find the
best location on the CPU rack to
accommodate internal and external cables.
NOTE
The best recommended location for the
I/O frame is at the rear bottom of the
CPU cabinet.

Continue with the M8739
steps 9 through 13 above.

installation

TA81-TO-RSC INTERFACING
This section provides information on
check the interface for TA81.

as described

how to install,

cable, and

The TA81 communicates with a host through an HSC mass storage
server. A Tape Data Channel module in the HSC connects it through
an STI bus to the TA8l's STI module.
The cable connections required between
shown in Figures 5-20 through 5-22.

5-25

the

HSC

and TA81

are

t.OGIC
RACK

MA-1170-S3A

SHA-0172·85

Figure 5-20 · TA81 Interface Cabling

BUl.KHEAO

----,

r-i«
I
I

I
STI

FORMATTER
MODUl.E

I
I
I

I
I
L ___ _J

_ _ _ _ __J

MA-11 72·83A
SMR-0173-85

Figure 5-21

TA81 Cabling Connections

5-26

PORT A

MA.117•·83A

SHF1·01?4-85

Figure 5-22

TA81 Tape Deck Access and Internal Cabling

TA81-TO-HSC External Cabling
Use the following procedure to
storage server.
External
procedure
training.
1.

cable the TA81

to the

HSC mass

NOTE
cabling
is a
user-oriented
that does not require special

On the TA81, open the rear door. Connect the flat STI bus
cable (PN BC26V-25 or BC27V-25) from the HSC to the
proper port connector in the TA81
(Figures 5-20 and
5-21). A cable (PN 17-00474-02) connects each STI bus
cable to the STI interface controller module inside the
logic cage.
NOTE
Check
for
loose
connections,
lost
mounting screws, and dangling cables or
wires.

5-27

Make sure that the other plug of the STI bus cable (PN
BC26V-25 or BC27V-25) is securely connected to an STI
connector on the HSC bulkhead.

3•

Connect the remote switching control bus f rorn the HSC to
one of
the front jacks on
the 874-E/872-E power
controller. (When both STI ports are used, connect a bus
from both HSCs to the 874-E/872-E.)

Close the rear door of the TA81.

Make sure system power is off at the HSC(s). Connect the
ac power cable from the 874-E/872-E to the power source.

Now continue with the TA81 acceptance diagnostic tests.

TU81 ACCEPTANCE DIAGNOSTICS
This section describes all the tests necessary to check and accept
the TU81 subsystem.
TU81 acceptance
diagnostics.

testing includes the following

resident and host

Resident Diagnostics
The power-on health check automatically runs when the power switch
is turned on. See Chapter 3 for a description of this check.
M8739 Status Checking
On system power-on with an add-on TU81, the host computer
automatically configures the transport into the system.
If the
M8739 fails at that time (or anytime afterward), the host computer
cannot access the TU81.
If the M8739 fails during normal on-line operation, the host
computer cannot continue to access the TU81. An error message is
entered in the system error log.
NOTE
Use the SHOW DEVICE command to check the
status of TU81, TMSCP module, and I/O
connections.
VAX-Based Diagnostics
The following diagnostics are executed by the host VAX computer.
NOTE
Refer to the diagnostic documentation of
the
installed Digital
computer for
information on how to run and interpret
the host diagnostics.

5-28

VAX Front-End Standalone Diagnostic, Tests 1 through 10 -- This
diagn0stic (EVMBB) checks the subsystem in all basic modes of
operation, and tests the TU81 logic, interface bus, and I/O silo.
It can run with the transport off-line only.
The front-end diagnostic consists of three test sections: default,
manual, and fault. For acceptance testing purposes, use only the
default and manual sections. Each section contains several tests
that check various modules and functions of the TU81 subsystem.
The default tests do not need magnetic tape in their exercises.
The manual tests require operator intervention to mount and remove
magnetic tape when requested by the diagnostic at the console
terminal.
VAX Data Reliability On-Line Diagnostic, Tests 1 through 3 -- This
diagnostic (EVMBA) provides a complete tape subsystem checkout. It
tests the TU81 while it is on-line without bringing the system
down. This diagnostic consists of five tests.
This
diagnostic
Standalone mode.

NOTE
does

not

run

Test 1, acceptance test
Test 2, qualification test
Test 3, multidrive test
Test 4, read interchange test
Test 5, conversation mode test
Basic Operating Instructions -- Follow
running VAX-based diagnostics.
1.

these

instructions when

Load the diagnostic supervisor (ENSAA,
for the appropriate computer system.

ECSAA, or ESSAA)

NOTE
Use ENSAA
on VAX-11/730,
ECSAA
VAX-11/750, and ESSAA on VAX-11/780.
2.

Attach and select the devices
ways.

to be loaded in one of two

NOTE
DS is the prompt from the
supervisor. Do not type DS.

diagnostic

Load the diagnostic in the beginning
(before the devices are attached) only
if the supervisor revision does not
support TU81.
Operator
responses
are
throughout the procedure.

5-29

underlined

In prompt mode, type:
OS> Load EVMBA
OS> Attach (UNIBUS)
Device Type? DWXXX*
Device Link? HUB DWO 3 4
OS> Attach (LESI/TU81)
Device Type? TU81
Device Link? DWO
Device Name? MUAO
CSR? 774500
Vector? 260
BR? 5

In explicit mode, type:
OS> Load EVMBA
OS> Attach DWXXX HUB DWO 3 4 (This is UNIBUS.)
DS> Attach TU81 DWO MUAO 774500 260 5 (This
LESI/TU81.)
NOTE
For control flags, refer to
diagnostic listings.

* XXX can be 780, 750, or 730.
5-30

the

VAX

Acceptance Test Example -- This procedure is for the
VAX-11/780. You can use any other VAX CPU instead.

TU81 and

NOTE
Before starting any acceptance test,
power to the CPU and TU81 must be off.
1.

Plug the
CPU.

TU81 into the local power

outlet. Power on the

Power on the TU81 by setting the ON/OFF power switch on
the tape deck to the ON position. This step activates the
built-in, power-on health check to verify normal de power
distribution and normal operation of all control panel
indicators. (See "Power-On Health Check" in Chapter 3.)
The check is successful when the LOGIC ON and FILE PRO
indicators light and a unit number (201, for example)
appears on the 3-digit display on control panel (with all
other indicators off).
NOTE
If a fault code appears on the 3-digit
display, or if the LOGIC OFF indicator
lights, or
if you find
any other
failure,
contact
a
Field
Service
representative.

Check the devices' status and connections
DEVICE command.

with the SHOW

$ SHOW DEV PT (Checks the I/O modules.)
$ SHOW DEV MU (Checks the TU81 status.)

Run the EVMBB diagnostic. Load
media device.

EVMBB by booting

>>>B/10 DXXX*
(DXXX = BOOT DEVICE)
DIAGNOSTIC SUPERVISOR, ZZ-ESSAA
DS> LOAD EVMBB
DS> ATTACH DWXXX HUB DWO 3 4
DS> ATTACH TU81 DWO MUAO 774500 260 5
DS> SELECT MUAO
To start the default section {tests 1 to 9), type:
DS>START

* XXX can be 780, 750, or 730.
5-31

a load

Complete the section with no fatal errors.
with the manual section (test 10), type:

To continue

DS>RUN EVMBB/SEC:MANUAL
The diagnostic gives you the following instructions.
MOUNT A SCRATCH TAPE LOADED, ON-LINE, AND WRITE ENABLED
Is the tape ready? !
The test starts. Test 10, the functional fault detection
test, runs for about 10 minutes with different tape
motions and read/write operations. When the unit number
appears on the 3-d~git display, the test is successful.
6.

Continue with the EVMBA diagnostic.
$ RUN ECSAA

DIAGNOSTIC SUPERVISOR, ZZ -- ECSAA
DS>
DS>
DS>
DS>
DS>

LOAD EVMBA
ATTACH DWXXX HUB DWO 3 4
ATTACH TU81 DWO MUAO 774500 260 5
SELECT MUAO
START/SEC=DEFAULT

PDP-11-Based Diagnostics
The following diagnostics
computer.

are

executed

the

host

PDP-11

NOTE
Individual PDP-11 diagnostics to be
used to test the TU81 will be
described in the next revision of
this document.
Basic Operating Instructions
Follow
running PDP-11-based diagnostics.
1.

these

instructions when

Load XXDP+ monitor.
a. Enter date.

Answer hard core questions.
a. 50 Hz? Y or N
b. LSI? y or N

This is XXDP+. Type Hor H/L for details (Help File).
[Receive XXDP+ prompt (dot)]

5-32

Enter R (space) program name.
The program may be TUFDDO (for example)
The operator entry should look like this:
[. R TUFO??]

Receive DR> prompt.

Enter the appropriate command.
For example,
DR>STA to start the test.

Change HW(L)? "Y" or
answer must be "Y".

"N" -

Change SW(L}? "Y" or "N".

to run the

diagnostic, the

NOTE
Refer to the Diagnostic Listing for
specific
progam
problems
and
instructions.
No hard errors are allowed.
Hardware Parameters - The
vector assignments.

following are the TU81 base address and

= 774500
Unibus Vector = 260
Unibus Address

Example of commands:

STA/TES:2/FLA:IDU:LOE

Example meaning:

Start Test 2, inhibit dropping unit, and
loop on error.

Software Parameters - Refer to Diagnostic Listings.
TA81 ACCEPTANCE DIAGNOSTICS
This section describes all the tests necessary to check and accept
the TA81 subsystem.
TA81 acceptance
diagnostics.

testing includes the following

resident and host

Resident Diagnostics
The power-on health check automatically runs when the power switch
is turned on. See Chapter 3 for a description of this check.

5-33

Subsystem Level Diagnostics
Two subsystem level diagnostics, ILTAPE and ILEXER, verify proper
TA81 operation.
To run these diagnostics, mount and load a write-enabled 267 mm
(10.5 in) tape reel. Place the transport on-line and make sure the
on-line indicator lights. Depending on the STI port being driven,
set the PORT SELECT A or B button on the TA81 control panel to the
enable (in) position.
The paragraphs that follow briefly describe these two diagnostics.
In-Line Tape Diagnostic (ILTAPE) -- ILTAPE is capable of running
all the drive-resident formatter microdiagnostics from the HSC. A
canned sequence,
test 01, tests the TA81 transport functions. A
second canned sequence, test 05,
is available to verify the
streaming function.
In-Line Exerciser (!LEXER) -- This diagnostic exercises from 1 to
10 units in any combination of disk and tape drives connected to
an HSC. Logic is tested by writing and reading predetermined data
patterns and recording modes.
ILTAPE and !LEXER are run from the HSC ASCII port. Refer to the
appropriate HSC user documentation for more information.
Perform the following procedure to test the TA81.
1.

Run ILTAPE Formatter canned sequences 1 and 5 for one pass.
No errors are allowed. (When both STI ports are used, also
run ILTAPE through the second port for one pass.)

Run !LEXER. Use the GCR worst case data pattern (22) for 15
minutes. Table 5-2 lists the acceptable error criteria.
(When both STI ports are used, also run !LEXER through the
second port for 15 minutes.)

5-34

Table 5-2 Maximum Error Number
Allowed
Number
(Per pass of
2400 ft reel)

Error Type
Designation

Description

Hard
Media
Double Trkerr
Double Trkrev
Single Trkerr
Single Trkrev
Other Err A
Other Err B
Other Err c

Nonrecoverable
Tape media
Double-track correction (read)
Double-track correction (read reverse)
Single-track correction (read)
Single-track correction (read reverse)
Other (read)
Status
Other (write)

0
20

*
*

* Indicates designations not

used by TA81. Headings appear on the
error report, but these designations always report 0 errors.

NOTES:
1.

Other (read) -- Successful operation without error correction,
but with interesting occurrence (AMTIE or PHTIE flag).
Other (write)
Write retry succeeded in
location that previous write retry failed.

same

physical

If the TA81 does not meet these specifications, additional run
time is necessary to determine the validity of errors.

Booting the HSC
HSC-based diagnostics.

these

instructions

the HSC by pressing the INIT
following message is displayed:

l~--Boot

when

running

button on the

HSC. The

INIPIO-I Booting •••
The boot process takes about two minutes. When
complete, the following message appears.
HSCSO Version XXXX Date Time System n
2.

Type Control Y. The following prompt appears.
HSCSO>

5-35

Running ILTAPE Example (Test 01) -- In response to the HSC prompt
shown above, enter the command to run ILTAPE, then answer the user
dialog questions as shown.
HSCSO>R ILTAPE
ILTAPE>D>hh:mm Execution Starting
DRIVE UNIT NUMBER (U) [ ]?Tnnn (nnn=unit number assigned)
EXECUTE FORMATTER DIAGNOSTICS (YN) [N]?N
EXECUTE TEST OF TAPE TRANSPORTATION (YN) [N]?Y
IS SCRATCH MEDIA MOUNTED (YN) [N]?Y
FUNCTIONAL TEST SEQUENCE NUMBER (D) [l]?l
SELECT DENSITY (1-800, 2-1600, 3-6250) [3]?3
DATA PATTERN (D) [3]?3
ITERATIONS (D) [l]?~ One pass of ILTAPE test 01 runs.
Running ILTAPE Example (Test 05) -- Responses to the HSC prompt
and user dialog questions are the same as those to run test 01
until the following questions.
FUNCTIONAL TEST SEQUENCE NUMBER (D) [l]?S
SELECT DENSITY (1-800, 2-1600, 3-6250) [3]?3
ILTAPE>D>FIXED SPEEDS AVAILABLE:
ILTAPE>D>
(1) 025 IPS
ILTAPE>D>
(2) 075 !PS
SELECT FIXED SPEED (D) [O = AUTOMATIC]?O
DATA PATTERN NUMBER (D) [3]?3
ITERATIONS (D) [l]?l
One pass of ILTAPE test 05 runs.

5-36

APPENDIX A
TUR8X ADD-ON INSTALLATION

INTRODUCTION
This appendix explains how to install an RASO
into a TUSO or TUSl/TASl Tape Drive cabinet.

or RASl Disk Drive

The term disk drive refers to the RASO or RASl. The term tape
drive or cabinet refers to the TUSO or TUS1/TA81 Tape Drive
cabinet.
REQUIRED TOOLS AND SUPPLIES
You will
need the following
installation.

items

5/32 inch allen wrench
5/16 inch nut driver
Number 2 phillips screwdriver, medium length
3/8 inch nut driver
Adjustable wrench
Flat-blade screwdriver
One pair of diagonal cutters

A-1

perform

the

TURSX

Parts List (Hardware Kit)
You will find the following hardware in the disk drive carton
(Figure A-1). The hardware listed reflects only what you need to
merge the RASO or RA81 Disk Drive with the TU80 or TU81/TA81 Tape
Drive cabinet. For a more complete parts list, refer to the RA80,
RA81, TUSO, and TU81/TA81 Illustrated Parts Breakdowns (IPBs) and
the
TURBO
D/E
Tape
Disk
Subsystem
Parts
List
(K-PL-TURS0-0-DBP).
Digital PN

Description

12-13686-00
12-13686-01
74-19261-00
74-28330-00
74-25167-01

Chassis slide set
Mounting rail set
Chassis slide bracket
Electrostatic discharge bracket
Spacer, slide mount

74-25168-01
90-09700-00
H9544-HC
36-13 3 90-00
70-19692-01

Bar, nut
10-32 X 0.31 PPH sem screws
Extension stabilizer
Warning label, Rev B
Plug assembly (RA8X)

70-18340-01
90-06022-01
90-06659-00
90-070 32-00
90-0 70 83-00

I/O bulkhead drive module
Number 6-32 X 3/8 inch PPH screw
Number 6 flat washer
Cable tie
3/8 inch cable clamp

1
1
1

90-07867-00
90-07801-00
90-09718-02
EK-ORA80-UG
EK-ORA81-UG
90-10174-01

Cable tie push mount
Split washer
Grommet
RASO User Guide
RABl User Guide
8-32 X 0.31 sem screws

1
1
1
1
1

Quantity

* Part of RA80/RA81 Mounting Hardware Kit.
A-2

l*
1

4*
2*
2*

4*
12*
1
1
1

6
1

RASX DISK DRIVE
USER GUIDE

SLIDE ASSEMBLIES
RASX DISK DRIVE CARTON

MOUNTING HARDWARE

SMR.Qtf!J-85

Figure A-1

Carton Contents

A-3

IF PARTS ARE MISSING
If you determine that parts are missing from the disk drive
carton, call your local Digital representative (phone numbers are
listed in Chapter 4 of this book) or your carrier immediately. Do
not continue.

IF YOU NEED HELP
Contact your local Digital representative if you have problems
during the installation procedure.
The Digital Field Service
office numbers are in Chapter 4 of this book.
BEFORE YOU BEGIN
Place both the TU80/81 cabinet and the RA80/81 Disk drive near
each other.
Make sure that the area you are working in is large
enough for you to perform the procedure comfortably.
~utility
table nearby for holding tools and parts may be useful.
It's a good idea to locate the TU80 or TU81 cabinet near its final
location.

A-4

GOAL
The goal of this procedure is to successfully merge an RASO or
RA81 Disk Drive into a TUSO, TU81, or TA81 Tape Drive cabinet. At
the beginning of this procedure, the tape drive will look like
Figure A~2.

[Q
111111111I\\I\\1111
111111111111111111111

MA·Mff·8•
SHFl-0184-85

Figure A-2 Tape Drive Before
Merge Procedure

A-5

ows a c
F ig u re A-3 sh

v e /t a
er g ed d is k d ri
(m
SX
R
TU
d
o m p le te

f:
.

0 :;/ /.'
.'1

1111111IIIiIi111111

Ii/'
lllJ 'I
I

--...

I·

1111111I1111 iii :1 /

:/ I

MA .04 25- 84
S1w1R.01es.as

UR8X-merge
F ig u r e A -3 T

A -6

C o m p le te

p e d ri v e ),

UNPACKING AND SET UP
Following is the set up procedure for installing
into the tape drive cabinet.
1.

the disk drive

Unpack the tape drive and remove it from its shipping
skid.
Follow the instructions in the TOSO User Guide
(EK-OTUSO-UG) or TU81/TA81 Tape Subsystem User Guide
(EK-TUA81-UG).
CAUTION
If you are performing this procedure on
a previously installed TUBO or TU81/TA81
tape drive, make· sure its power cord is
disconnected from the wall socket.

Cut the shipping bands to unpack
the top of the carton.

Remove the disk drive mounting hardware kit from the box
and put it aside. You'll need it beginning in step 1 of
the Assembly section.

Use a 5/32 inch allen wrench to open the back door of the
TU80/81 cabinet.
Use a 5/16 inch nut driver to remove
the ground wire from the door (Figure A-4). Once you've
disconnected the ground wire, screw the ground screw and
washer back into the ground stud on the door, so it won't
get lost.

A-7

the disk drive. Remove

SHR-0189-85

Figure A-4 Removing Ground Stud from Rear Door

A-8

Remove the rear door by pulling down on the spring-loaded
pivot pin and pulling the door up and out (Figure A-5).
Place the door well out of your way.
You won't need it
again until the last step in the merge procedure.

SHR-0188-85

Figure A-5 Releasing Pivot Pin to Remove Rear Door

A-9

Remove all boxed hardware from the tape drive cabinet.
Follow the instructions in the beginning of this book for
installation information regarding the packed hardware.
If the tape drive is not new, this hardware has already
been installed, so skip this step.

Open the front door of the tape drive cabinet. Remove the
10-1/2 inch front bezel (Figure A-6). Use a 3/8 inch
wrench or a small adjustable wrench to remove the four
hex nuts that hold the bezel in place. Access to the hex
nuts is from inside the cabinet.

Unpack the disk drive hardware kit, which contains the
chassis slide mechanism.
The slide mechanism is wrapped
in bubble wrapping and is in the disk drive's box. There
are also several small bags of screws, nuts, and bolts.
Make sure these bags are present.

HEX NUT

10-32
(4 PL)

FRONT
BEZEL

. ---~

.:I"

•I

I
CZ·0577
MA...()425·8•
SHR-0186·85

Figure A-6 Removing Front Bezel

A-10

ASSEMBLY

Attach the chassis slide brackets to the ends of the two
chassis slides using four 8-32 X 0.31 sem screws (Figure
A-7). Each chassis slide and chassis slide bracket is
marked with left and right designations. For example, the
left chassis slide is marked 12-13686-00 Rev J-L. The sem
screws are in one of the bags packed inside the disk
drive's box.

PHILLIPS
SEM SCREWS

8/32 x 5/16

RIGHT
CHASSIS
SLIDE

/
' , .....

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

.........

..... .....

CHASSIS
SLIDE
BRACKETS

.....

NOTE: REPEAT FOR LEFT CHASSIS SLIDE.
CZ-0578
SHR-0187-85

Figure A-7

Mounting the Chassis Slide Brackets to the
Right-Side Chassis Slide

A-11

Mount the chassis slides to the front and rear vertical
frame uprights on the tape drive cabinet as shown. Use
mounting holes 9 and 13 counting up from the bottom of
the. uprights. Use four 10-32 X 1/2 inch phillips sem
screws for each chassis slide (two screws for the front
and two for the back) (Figures A-8 and A-9).

NOTE
Take care that the chassis slide marked
L is attached to the left vertical
upright (viewed from the front), and the
slide marked R is attached to the right
vertical upright.

-NUT
BAR

)~/

~Q
HOLE.........._ IQ
NO. 9

---....

SH Fi-0~51 ·85

Figure A-8

Mounting the chassis
Rails (Left Side)

A-12

Slides to the Tape Drive's

~
HOLE/!
N0.9

SHR-0249-85

Figure A-9

Hole Locator (Right Side)

A-13

Mount the electrostatic discharge brackets on the left
and right rear vertical uprights, using holes 10 and 12,
counting up from the bottom (Figure A-10). Use two 10-32
X 1/2 inch sem screws to mount each bracket •

./ELECTROSTATIC
DISCHARGE
,,,.,
BRACKET

Figure A-10 Mounting the Left Electrostati c Discharge
Bracket

A-14

Extend the chassis slides forward until they lock (Figure
A-11).

Position the disk drive, still on the pallet, so that its
rear is facing the front of the TUS0/81 cabinet.

TAPE
DRIVE
CABINET

ARM

\_LOCK
ARM

SLIDE
ASSEMBLY

SMR-0192-85

Figure A-11 Extended, Locked Chassis Slides

A-15

Push the cabinet up as closely as possible while making
sure the extended chassis tracks are lining up with and
engaging the disk mounting rails.
The disk mounting
rails are premounted on either sid.e of the disk drive.

Push the disk drive forward slightly to make sure that
the cabinet chassis slides are properly engaged with the
rails on the side of the disk drive.
CAUTION
Make sure the disk drive is still fully
supported by the shipping pallet.

A-16

Secure the drive to the chassis slides using four number
8-32 X 0.31 phillips sem screws (Figure A-12). If the
rails on the disk drive and chassis slides you installed
are engaged correctly, the holes on the chassis slides
should line up with the holes on th~ disk drive 1 s rails.
CAUTION
Make sure the disk drive is still fully
supported by its shipping pallet.

TAPE
DRIVE
CABINET

~~~x
DRIVE

SLIDE
ASSEMBLY

PHILLIPS
SEM SCREWS
8-32 x 0.31
12 EACH SIDEI

Figure A-12 Securing the Disk Drive to the Chassis Slides

A-17

Lower the front two feet under the tape drive cabinet
(which raises the cabinet and, therefore, the disk drive)
until the disk drive is about 1/2 inch above its
rema1n1ng packing
material and shipping
skid. See
instructions in the TU80 or TU81 User Guide information
on raising and lowering the feet on the tape drive
cabinet.
CAUTION
Do not perform this step unless step 8
immediately above is complete.

foam padding

10.

Break off
disk.

11.

Remove the power cord from the back of the disk drive.

12.

Remove the shipping pallet
material from the disk drive.

the extra

from the base

and other

excess

of the

packing

CAUTION
Make sure that cables and wires are
clear of the chassis slides and rails,
and that they are not pinched, scraped,
or crushed by the rear of the disk
drive.

13.

Release lock arms Band A, in that order. The lock arms
are on the disk drive's rails (see Figure A-12). Slide
the disk drive forward into the tape drive cabinet until
it stops.
NOTE
If the disk drive doesn't slide smoothly
into the cabinet, you may have to adjust
the height of the disk drive in the
cabinet. Find the small filler panel
directly below the disk unit, on the
cabinet. Loosen its two mounting screws
(it's not necessary to remove them)
(Figure A-13). The mounting screws are
on the bottom of the filler panel.
Press the panel as far down as it will
go. Re-tighten the screws.
Now make sure that the disk drive can smoothly slide back
into the cabinet.

A-18

SHA·0199-85

Figure A-13 Adjusting the Filler Panel

A-19

CABLING
1.

Secure the disk drive power cord to the rear of the disk
drive as shown in Figures A-14 and A-15.
Use the
existing phillips screw, along with one 3/8 inch cable
clamp and one number 6 flat washer.
See the TUR80-D/E
Unit Assembly Drawing.

l
~
Figure A-14 Plugging in the Disk Drive's Power Cord

A-20

SMA·0195·85

Figure A-15 Routing the Disk Drive's Power Cord

A-21

There are three adhesive-backed tie wraps that you must
cut. The first is on the tape drive's power supply, the
second and third on the inside channel of the left rear
rail (viewed from the rear). The tie wraps hold the tape
drive's power cord.
Begin dressing the disk drive's power cord by cutting the
uppermost tie wrap on the inside channel of the rear rail
(hole number 10 counting from the top). Use the cable tie
provided to secure the tape drive's power cord with the
disk drive's power cord to this common point (hole 10).
Next, cut the adhesive-backed tie wrap on the tape
drive's power supply and let the tape drive's power coed
fall along the rail.
Third, cut the remaining adhesive-backed tie wrap on the
inside channel of the rear rail. Secure the disk drive's
power cord with the tape drive's power cord to this
common point with a new cable tie.
Run the power cords behind the previously installed
chassis slide on the left rear (seen from the rear).
NOTE
dress the tape drive's power
cord exactly as you found it. Leave a
very small amount of slack in the disk
drive's power cord.
Be sure to

A-22

Coil the RA80/81 power cord through the three cable clips
on the bottom of the frame assembly. Plug the power cord
into the connector labeled J6 on the power controller.
You'll have to look in the front of the cabinet to find
connector J6 on the power controller.

Mount the I/O bulkhead drive module
bracket (Figure A-16).

With the disk still fully extended, secure the two disk
SDI cables to the cable mounting bracket on the disk
drive using one cable tie.

to the I/O bulkhead

Figure A-16 Mounting the I/O Bulkhead Module

A-23

Run the two cables across the inside of the rail, behind
the rear door lock bracket, and down to the I/O bulkhead
mounting bracket (Figure A-17). Connect the SDI cables to
the top of the I/O bulkhead drive module.
Connect the
external SDI cables to the bottom of the I/O bulkhead
drive module. The external SDI cables connect to a host
system (Figure A-18).
NOTE

This cable must be dressed with the disk
drive fully extended on the chassis
slides. Now move the disk in and out to
make sure that there are no "hangupsn
involving the cables.
7.

When you've fully routed the disk's cables, move the disk
in and out several times, slowly, to make sure that none
of the cables on the disk drive are pinched or cut. This
step requires two people. One person should slide the
disk drive forward and back, while the other checks the
cables.
NOTE

All cables
are important,
but pay
particular attention to the disk power
cord.

A-24

I:I

$~ Fl-0250·85

Figure A-17 Routing the SDI Cables

A-25

- 1 0 MOUNTING
BLOCK

Figure A-18 SDI Cable Connections

A-26

Secure the electrostatic discharge cable bracket (Figure
A-19). Remove the bottom left (seen from the rear) power
supply screw on the disk drive, attach the bracket as
shown, then replac~ the screw with the bracket in place.
Repeat for the right side.

SHF1·0198·85

Figure A-19

Securing the Disk Drive with the
Electrostatic Discharge Bracket

A-27

Peel the existing
power supply.

stability label off

the rear

10.

Put the new stability label (supplied) on the rear of
disk drive in the center of the small rear cover (Figure
A-20).

5,..R-0197-85

Figure A-20 Mounting the New Stability Label

A-28

of the

11.

Connect the power sequence jumper plug assembly to the
"sequence in" connector next to the SI cables, where they
connect to the disk unit. The sequence in connector is
marked "IN."

12.

Re-assemble the rear door and re-attach the ground wire.

13.

Attach the horizontal
stabilizer (H9544-HC) to the
TU80/81 cabinet as shown in the TU80 or TU81 User Guide.

14.

Run the necessary cables out from their cable exit points
(host interface cables and power controller cord), then
close and lock the rear door.

This concludes the installation procedure.
Refer to the appropriate RA8X Disk Drive User Guide (EK-ORABX-UG)
for instructions on setting up the disk drive and running
acceptance diagnostics to verify that it works correctly.

A-29

INDEX

American National Standards
Institute (ANSI), 1-4, 1-7
American Standard Code for
Information Interchange
(ASCII), 1-5
ANSI, 1-4, 1-7
ASCII, 1-5
ASCII port test panel,
1-26, 2-6

GCR, 1-4, 1-12
1-14
Group-coded recording
(GCR) , 1-4, 1-12

1-14

Hierarchical storage controller
(HSC), 1-1
HSC, 1-1
HSC-based diagnostics,
5-34 -- 5-36

Beginning-of-tape (BOT), 1-7
assembly, 1-25
BOT, 1-7

!BG, 1-14
Interblock gap (!BG), 1-14

Cover interlock, 1-25
CRC, 1-15
Cyclic redundancy check
(CRC), 1-15

LES!, 1-1
Leveler feet adjustments, 5-9
Logic cages, 1-25
Logic-off indicator, 3-2
Logic-on indicator, 3-2
Low-end storage interconnect
(LESI), 1-1

End-of-tape (EOT) , 1-7
assembly, 1-25
EOT, 1-7
Error reporting, 3-2

Magnetic tape, 4-1
care, 4-1
media requirements, 1-7
recording formats, 1-12
shipping, 4-13
storage, 4-2, 4-12
threading and loading,
2-7 -- 2-9
unloading, 2-9

Fault codes and corrective
actions, 2-10, 2-11
File protect sensor, 1-25
Formatter subsystem, 1-21

I-1

2-6,

Nonreturn-to-zero (NRZI), 1-4,
1-12
NRZI, 1-4, 1-12

Take-up reel
motor, 1-24
hub, 1-24
Tape cleaner, 1-25
Tape mass storage control
protocol (TMSCP), 1-1, 1-2
resident interface module,
1-22
TA81
acceptance diagnostics,
5-33 -- 5-36
connection to HSC, 1-22,
5-25 -- 5-28
control panel, 2-1 - 2-6
electrical connection,
5-13 -- 5-15
site planning, 5-1, 5-2
tape transport, 1-1, 1-4,
1-24
unit variations, 1-4
unpacking and inspection,
5-2 -- 5-5
TMSCP, 1-1, 1-2, 1-22
TU81
acceptance diagnostics,
5-28 -- 5-33
connection to host, 1-21,
1-22, 5-15 -- 5-25
control panel, 2-1 -- 2-6
electrical connection,
5-13 -- 5-15
site planning, 5-1, 5-2
tape transport, 1-1, 1-4,
1-24
unit variations, 1-4
unpacking and inspection,
5-2 -- 5-5

Operator diagnostics, 3-2
power-on health check, 3-2
diagnostic test 01, 3-3
Operator troubleshooting,
3-1 -- 3-4
p

PDP-11 based diagnostics, 5-32,
5-33
PE, 1-4, 1-12, 1-14
Phase-encoded (PE), 1-4, 1-12,
1-14
Power amplifier module, 1-21
Power failure, 2-10
Power switch, 1-25
Pump shutdown, 2-10
R

RA80/RA81 disk drive
installation
cabling, A-20 -- A-26
required tools, A-1
unpacking and installation,
A-7 -- A-19
Read/write/servo subsystem,
1-21
Rear stabilizer installation,
5-11 -- 5-13

Unibus/LES! adapter module
1-21, 5-18 -- 5-24
Unit number, 3-5

Small peripheral controller
s 1 o t ( S PC ) , 1- 21
SPC slots, 1-21
Speed modes, 1-14, 1-15
Standard tape interface (ST!),
1-1, 1-2, 1-22
STI, 1-1, 1-2, 1-22
Supply reel
motor, 1-24
hub, 1-24

v
VAX-based diagnostics,
5-29 -- 5-32

w
Write-enable ring, 2-6

I-2