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August 1990

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Document:	DECsystem 5500 Operation
Order Number:	EK-332AA-OP
Revision:	001
Pages:	106
Original Filename:

OCR Text

DECsystem 5500
Operation
Order Number EK–332AA–OP–001

Digital Equipment Corporation
Maynard, Massachusetts

First Printing, August 1990
The information in this document is subject to change without notice and should not be
construed as a commitment by Digital Equipment Corporation.
Digital Equipment Corporation assumes no responsibility for any errors that may appear in
this document.
The software, if any, described in this document is furnished under a license and may be used
or copied only in accordance with the terms of such license. No responsibility is assumed
for the use or reliability of software or equipment that is not supplied by Digital Equipment
Corporation or its affiliated companies.
Restricted Rights: Use, duplication or disclosure by the U.S. Government is subject to
restrictions as set forth in subparagraph (c)(1)(ii) of the Rights in Technical Data and Computer
Software clause at DFARS 252.227–7013.
© Digital Equipment Corporation 1990
All rights reserved. Printed in U.S.A.
The Reader’s Comments form at the end of this document requests your critical evaluation to
assist in preparing future documentation.
The following are trademarks of Digital Equipment Corporation.
CompacTape
DDCMP
DEC
DECdirect
DECnet
DECserver
DECsystem 5500
DECUS
DECwriter
DELNI
DELQA

DEQNA
DESTA
DSSI
IVIS
MicroVAX
PDP
Professional
Q-bus
ReGIS
RQDX
ThinWire

ULTRIX
UNIBUS
VAX
VAX 4000
VAXcluster
VAX DOCUMENT
VAXELN
VAXlab
VMS
VT
the DIGITAL Logo

Prestoserve is a trademark of Legato Systems, Inc.
X Window System is a trademark of Massachusetts Institute of Technology.
FCC NOTICE: The equipment described in this manual generates, uses, and may emit radio
frequency energy. The equipment has been type tested and found to comply with the limits for
a Class A computing device pursuant to Subpart J of Part 15 of FCC Rules, which are designed
to provide reasonable protection against such radio frequency interference when operated in
a commercial environment. Operation of this equipment in a residential area may cause
interference, in which case the user at his own expense may be required to take measures to
correct the interference.
S1298

This document was prepared using VAX DOCUMENT, Version 1.2.

Contents
Preface

Chapter 1 System Overview
1.1
Front View and Physical Description . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
1.1.1
The BA430 Enclosure . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
1.1.1.1
Mass Storage Shelf . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
1.1.1.2
Card Cage . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
1.1.1.3
CPU Cover Panel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
1.1.1.4
DSSI and SCSI Connectors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
1.1.1.5
Power Supply Controls and Indicators . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
1.1.1.6
Fans . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
1.2
Functional Description of Base System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
1.2.1
Base System Components . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
1.2.1.1
Central Processing Unit (CPU) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
1.2.1.2
Console Serial Line Unit (SLU) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
1.2.1.3
Main Memory . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
1.2.1.4
Network Controller . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
1.2.1.5
Embedded DSSI Adapter . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
1.2.1.6
Embedded SCSI Adapter . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
1.2.2
Optional Components . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
1.2.2.1
Mass Storage Devices and Controllers . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
1.2.2.2
Mass Storage Subsystems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
1.2.2.3
Mass Storage and Q-bus Expanders . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
1.2.2.4
Communications Controllers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
1.2.2.5
Printer Interfaces . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
1.2.2.6
Other Available Options . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

1–2
1–6
1–8
1–9
1–11
1–14
1–14
1–17
1–18
1–18
1–19
1–19
1–19
1–19
1–20
1–20
1–20
1–20
1–21
1–22
1–22
1–24
1–24

iii

Chapter 2 Operating the System
2.1
Before You Operate the System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
2.2
Switch Settings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
2.2.1
Normal Operation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
2.2.2
Special Operation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
2.3
Turning On the System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
2.4
Booting the System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
2.4.1
Booting the System from Console Mode . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
2.4.2
Autobooting the System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
2.5
Using Console Security . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
2.6
Using the System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
2.7
Halting the System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
2.8
Restarting the System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
2.9
Turning Off the System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
2.10 Recovering from an Over Temperature Condition . . . . . . . . .
2.11 Console Commands . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
2.11.1 The boot Command . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
2.11.2 The continue Command . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
2.11.3 The d (deposit) Command . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
2.11.4 The dump Command . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
2.11.5 The e (examine) Command . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
2.11.6 The exit Command . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
2.11.7 The fill Command . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
2.11.8 The go Command . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
2.11.9 The help Command . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
2.11.10 The ? Command . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
2.11.11 The init Command . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
2.11.12 The maint Command . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
2.11.13 The passwd Command . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
2.11.14 The printenv Command . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
2.11.15 The setenv Command . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
2.11.16 The show device Command . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
2.11.17 The show dssi Command . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
2.11.18 The show ethernet Command . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
2.11.19 The show scsi Command . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
2.11.20 The unpriv Command . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

2–1
2–1
2–1
2–2
2–4
2–5
2–6
2–7
2–8
2–10
2–10
2–11
2–11
2–12
2–12
2–15
2–17
2–17
2–18
2–20
2–21
2–21
2–22
2–22
2–22
2–22
2–22
2–23
2–24
2–26
2–26
2–27
2–27
2–28
2–29

2.11.21 The unsetenv Command . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2–29
2.12 Control Characters . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2–30

Chapter 3 Operating the System Options
3.1
Mass Storage Options . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
3.1.1
TK70 Tape Drive . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
3.1.1.1
Design of the Drive . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
3.1.1.2
Labeling a Tape Cartridge . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
3.1.1.3
Write-Protecting a Tape Cartridge . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
3.1.1.4
Tape Cartridge Handling and Storage Guidelines . . . . .
3.1.1.5
Inserting a Tape Cartridge . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
3.1.1.6
Removing a Tape Cartridge . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
3.1.1.7
Summary of TK70 Tape Drive Controls and Indicator
Lights . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
3.1.2
TLZ04 Tape Drive . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
3.1.2.1
Proper Handling of Cassette Tapes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
3.1.2.2
Setting the Write-Protect Tab on the Cassette Tape . . . .
3.1.2.3
Inserting a Cassette Tape into the Drive . . . . . . . . . . . .
3.1.2.4
System Software . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
3.1.2.5
Cleaning the Heads . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
3.1.3
RF/RZ-Series Integrated Storage Elements . . . . . . . . . . . .
3.1.4
RV20 Optical Disk Subsystem . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
3.1.5
RRD40 Digital Disk Subsystem . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
3.1.6
TS05 Tape Drive . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
3.1.7
TU81–Plus Tape Drive . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
3.2
Communications Controller Options . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
3.2.1
Asynchronous Serial Controllers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
3.2.1.1
Without Modem Support . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
3.2.1.2
With Modem Support . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
3.2.2
Synchronous Controllers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
3.2.3
Network Controllers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
3.3
Printer Options . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
3.4
Adding Options . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

3–1
3–2
3–3
3–4
3–5
3–7
3–7
3–10
3–12
3–13
3–15
3–15
3–16
3–17
3–18
3–19
3–24
3–24
3–24
3–24
3–24
3–24
3–25
3–26
3–27
3–27
3–28
3–29

Appendix A Related Documentation

Glossary

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

DECsystem 5500 System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Key Positions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Upper Door Opened . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Entire Door Opened . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Front View of the BA430 Enclosure . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Mass Storage Shelf . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Card Cage . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
CPU Cover Panel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Connectors for DSSI and SCSI Busses . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Power Supply Controls and Indicators . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Sample Power Bus Configuration . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
System Air Circulation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Language Selection Menu . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Sample Error Summary . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Successful Power-Up to Console Mode . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Successful Power-Up and Automatic Boot . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
TK70 Tape Drive . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Labeling a Tape Cartridge . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Tape Cartridge Write-Protect Switch . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Inserting a Tape Cartridge . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Removing a Tape Cartridge . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
TLZ04 Tape Drive . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Setting the Write-Protect Tab on the Cassette Tape . . . . . . . .
Inserting a Cassette Tape into the Drive . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Inserting the Head Cleaning Cassette . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
RF-Series ISE Controls and Indicators . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

1–2
1–3
1–4
1–5
1–7
1–8
1–10
1–12
1–14
1–15
1–17
1–18
2–3
2–5
2–6
2–7
3–3
3–4
3–6
3–9
3–11
3–14
3–16
3–17
3–19
3–20

3–11 RZ-Series ISE Front Panel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3–22
3–12 Inserting Bus Node ID Plugs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3–23

Tables
2–1
2–2
2–3
2–4
2–5
3–1
3–2
3–3
3–4
3–5

Normal Power-Up Indications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Console Commands . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Device Names . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Default Environment Variables . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Normal-Mode Control Characters . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
TK70 Tape Drive Controls . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
TK70 Tape Drive Indicator Lights . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
TLZ04 Drive Indicators (Normal Conditions) . . . . . . . . . . . . .
TLZ04 Drive Indicators (Abnormal Conditions) . . . . . . . . . . .
RF-Series Controls and Indicators . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

2–4
2–14
2–15
2–25
2–30
3–12
3–12
3–14
3–15
3–21

vii

Preface
This manual describes how to use the DECsystem 5500 system. The
system uses the RISC-based KN220 CPU module set and ULTRIX operating
system. The DECsystem 5500 system is housed in the BA430 pedestal
enclosure.
The manual is structured as follows:
•

Chapter 1 provides an overview of the system.

•

Chapter 2 describes how to use the system.

•

Chapter 3 describes how to use options installed in the system.

•

Appendix A lists related documentation.

•

A glossary explains key terms.

Conventions
The following conventions are used in this manual:
Convention

Meaning

Return

A key name is shown enclosed to indicate that you press a named
key on the keyboard.

Ctrl/x

A sequence such as Ctrl/x indicates that you must hold down the
key labeled Ctrl while you press another key.

[]

Arguments enclosed in square brackets are optional.

Italic type

Italic type indicates an argument for which you must supply a
value, environment variables, and references to other documents.

bold

This bold lowercase type indicates a command name. For
example: The setenv command is described in the next section.

bold user input

This bold upper or lowercase type indicates user input.
example:

For

Type maint at the console prompt.
or

>>> show device
NOTE

Notes provide general information about the current topic.

CAUTION

Cautions provide information to prevent damage to equipment
or software. Read these carefully.

WARNING

Warnings provide information to prevent personal injury. Read
these carefully.

Chapter 1

System Overview
DECsystem 5500 systems house all components in a BA430 enclosure. This
enclosure is a free-standing pedestal that houses the following:
•

Card cage

•

System controls

•

Central processing unit (CPU) module set

•

Memory modules

•

Communications controller modules

•

Tape drive controller module

•

Console module

•

RF-series or RZ-series Integrated Storage Elements, or both

•

TK70 tape drive or TLZ04 tape drive

•

Power supply

•

Fans

Up to four storage devices in the following combinations can be mounted
inside the BA430 enclosure:
•

Four RF-series or RZ-series Integrated Storage Elements (ISEs), or a
combination of both

•

One tape device, the TK70 or TLZ04 tape drive, and up to three RFseries or RZ-series ISEs, or a combination of both

This chapter describes the system components and their functions.
Chapters 2 and 3 describe how to use the system and options.

System Overview

1–1

1.1 Front View and Physical Description
The front of the system has a divided door that restricts access to the system
controls. Figure 1–1 shows the system with the front door closed.
Figure 1–1: DECsystem 5500 System

MLO-004032

A three-position rotary lock allows you to lock both the upper and lower
doors, or to lock just the lower door. Opening the upper door allows you to
access the controls for the storage devices and the System Control Panel
(SCP). Opening the entire door allows you to access all system controls and
cable connections.
Figure 1–2 shows the three key positions and the controls accessible in each
position.

1–2 DECsystem 5500 Operation

Figure 1–2: Key Positions

Door Handle

Rotary Key Lock
Top Key Position:
Access to SCP, ISEs, and
Tape Drive Controls and
Indicators (Upper Door)

Middle Key Position:
No Access to Controls

Bottom Key Position:
Access to Power Switch;
All Controls and Indicators
(Both Doors)

MLO-004958

Opening and Closing the Divided Door
The divided door allows you to access the mass storage devices and system
control panel (SCP), while restricting access to the power switch and the
console module. Open and close the door as follows:
1. Insert the key in the lock on the front door. Turn the key to the top
position (Figure 1–3) to open just the upper portion of the door, or to
the bottom position (Figure 1–4) to open the entire door.
With the key in the bottom position, the upper and lower doors will
open together.
2. Swing the door open.
3. To close the door, simply reverse the procedure. When pushing the
doors closed, push gently at the top right of the upper door and the
bottom right of the lower door.

System Overview

1–3

Figure 1–3: Upper Door Opened

Top Key Position

1–4 DECsystem 5500 Operation

MLO-005179

Figure 1–4: Entire Door Opened

Bottom Key Position
MLO-005180

The next section describes the BA430 enclosure, which is exposed when you
open the entire door.

System Overview

1–5

1.1.1 The BA430 Enclosure
Opening the front door enables you to access the components housed in the
BA430 enclosure. Figure 1–5 shows a typical configuration.
The BA430 enclosure can contain the following:
•

Mass storage —
•

TK70 or TLZ04 tape drive and up to three RF-series or RZ-series
ISEs, or a combination of both

•

No tape drive and up to four RF-series or RZ-series ISEs, or a
combination of both

All DECsystem 5500 systems contain the following:
•

System Control Panel (SCP)

•

Card cage containing modules — CPU, memory, communications
controllers, mass storage controllers

•

CPU cover panel

•

Power supply

•

Fans

1–6 DECsystem 5500 Operation

Figure 1–5: Front View of the BA430 Enclosure
Integrated Storage Elements (ISEs)
Tape Drive

System Control
Panel (SCP)

Power Supply
CPU Cover Panel

Fans
Card Cage
MLO-005181

System Overview

1–7

1.1.1.1 Mass Storage Shelf
The mass storage shelf extends across the top of the enclosure. The shelf
contains a system control panel (SCP), tape device, and up to three RFseries or RZ-series ISEs (tapeless systems can have up to four ISEs). Each
ISE has its own panel with controls and indicators. Instructions for using
mass storage devices are in Chapter 3. The SCP is to the right of the
storage devices. Figure 1–6 shows the mass storage shelf.
NOTE: RZ-series hard disk drives do not have controls or indicators on
their front panel.
Figure 1–6: Mass Storage Shelf
ISE 2

ISE 1

ISE 0

Tape Drive

Over Temperature
Warning Indicator
DC OK Indicator
Halt Button
Restart Button
System Control Panel (SCP)
MLO-005386

The SCP has two indicators: the DC OK indicator and the Over
Temperature Warning indicator. The green DC OK light indicates that the
power supply voltages are within the correct operating range. If the DC OK
indicator is not lit when the system power is on, refer to the DECsystem
5500 Troubleshooting and Diagnostics manual included in the Customer
Hardware Information Kit.
The red Over Temperature Warning indicator flashes to indicate that the
system’s internal temperature is approaching a level that may cause system
components to overheat. In addition to the flashing Over Temperature
Warning light, an audible alarm also provides warning of a possible over
temperature condition. If the components continue to heat, the system
will automatically shut down to prevent components from being damaged.
Chapter 2 provides instruction for turning on the system after a preventive
shutdown due to overheat conditions.

1–8 DECsystem 5500 Operation

Below the indicators are the Halt and Restart buttons. The Halt button
is a two-position button. When you press the button, the system halts.
A red indicator on the Halt button lights when the button is set to the
in position. Before you can enter console commands, you must press the
Halt button again to return it to the out position. When the Halt button
is returned to the out position, the console mode prompt (>>) is displayed
on the console terminal screen. Now you can enter console commands. If
you inadvertently press the Halt button, enter continue Return to continue.
Chapter 2 describes halting the system in more detail.
CAUTION: Pressing the Halt button halts the system regardless of the
setting of the Function switch on the console module.
Below the Halt button is the Restart button. The Restart button has a
green indicator. When you press the Restart button, the system returns to
a power-up condition and self-tests are run. If the bootmode variable is set
to a and you have assigned a value to the bootpath environment variable,
the system will reboot system software. Chapter 2 contains additional
instructions on restarting your system.
NOTE: The Halt and Restart buttons can be disabled to prevent accidental
activation. Contact your Digital service representative if you want to disable
the controls on the SCP.
1.1.1.2 Card Cage
The modules in your system are mounted in a 12-slot card cage under the
mass storage shelf, as shown in Figure 1–7.

System Overview

1–9

Figure 1–7: Card Cage

Slots 12 - 1

MLO-005182

The central processing unit (CPU) module set is installed in slots 1 and 2
with its associated memory module in slot 3. Additional memory modules
may be installed in slots 4 through 6. Remaining slots are available for
Q-bus option modules.
The number and type of modules installed in your system depend on your
configuration. Each Q-bus slot, even an empty one, is protected by a module
cover. Together the covers form a shield. The purpose of the shield is as
follows:
•

To protect external devices from electrical interference generated by the
system

•

To protect the system from electrical interference generated by external
devices

•

To maintain air flow integrity

CAUTION: Do not operate the system without Digital-supplied module
covers. The covers are required to protect the equipment and to meet

1–10 DECsystem 5500 Operation

international regulatory standards. Do not substitute other module covers
as they may not meet the required specifications.
Operating the system without the module covers has the following
consequences:
•

The system may overheat due to improper air circulation.

•

The system will not comply with FCC and VDE requirements for
electrostatic shielding and may produce electrical interference that
affects other equipment.

•

The system is susceptible to electrical interference or damage from
external sources.

The design of the module covers varies, depending on the type of module
installed in the slot. Modules requiring external cable connections, such as
communications controllers, have recessed covers that are riveted directly
to the module. The recessed module covers allow space for connecting
cables. Modules requiring no external cable connections, such as mass
storage controllers, are covered by flush covers. Empty slots are also
covered by flush covers which may be single or double width. All covers,
except those covering empty slots, have a label identifying the module
installed in the slot.
Cables connecting your system to peripheral devices (such as terminals,
modems, and printers) are attached to communications controllers. Each
cable can contain multiple lines. The cables run under the BA430 enclosure
and out the back or side of the enclosure, where the cables are split into
individual lines. Chapter 3 describes these connections in more detail.
1.1.1.3 CPU Cover Panel
The CPU module set is behind a double-width cover panel that has internal
cable connections to the memory module(s). Figure 1–8 shows the CPU
cover panel.

System Overview

1–11

Figure 1–8: CPU Cover Panel

CPU Cover Panel

LED Display
Function
Switch

Operation Switch
Modified
Modular Jack

Standard
Ethernet
Connector

Ethernet
Connector Switch
ThinWire Ethernet
Connector
MLO-005183

The CPU cover panel has the following components:
Function switch — When the switch is down (dot outside the
circle), breaks are disabled. When the switch is up (dot inside the
circle), breaks are enabled. When breaks are enabled, pressing
Break on the console terminal halts the processor and transfers
control to the console program.
The setting of the Function switch is also used in conjunction
with the three-position Operation switch to control what occurs
during a power-up sequence.

1–12 DECsystem 5500 Operation

Operation switch — This three-position rotary switch determines
how the system responds at power-up. The Operation switch and
its uses relative to the Function switch setting are described below:
Action Mode — If the Function switch is set to down (dot
outside the circle), the system displays a Language Selection
Menu at power-up. If your console terminal does not
support multiple languages, it defaults to English. After
you select a language, the power-up tests are run, and the
console prompt (>>) is displayed.
If the Function switch is set to up (dot inside the circle),
the console serial line external loopback test is executed.
This function requires special loopback connectors and is
for Digital Field Service use only.
Normal Mode — Power-up self-tests run, and the system
either enters Normal console mode, indicated by the >>
prompt, or the system autoboots from a device previously
defined by the user. The system autoboots only if you
have set the bootmode environment variable to a, and have
assigned a value to the bootpath environment variable.
If the Function switch is set to up (dot inside the circle),
breaks are enabled. If the Function switch is set to down
(dot outside the circle), breaks are disabled.
Maintenance Mode — Power-up self-tests run. Then the
system enters Maintenance mode, indicated by the >>>
prompt.
The light-emitting diode (LED) display shows the testing sequence
during power-up.

Modified modular jack (MMJ) — This console terminal connector
provides the connection for the console terminal.

Ethernet connectors — The CPU cover panel has two Ethernet
connectors: a BNC-type connector for ThinWire Ethernet, and a
15-pin connector for a standard Ethernet transceiver cable. The
Ethernet connector switch allows you to set the type of connection.

System Overview

1–13

To use the standard transceiver cable connection, set the switch
to the up position. To use the ThinWire cable connection, set the
switch to the down position. A green indicator light (LED) for each
connector indicates which connection is active.
1.1.1.4 DSSI and SCSI Connectors
Two panels provide connectors for DSSI and SCSI busses. The connectors
allow you to expand your system by connecting additional mass storage
devices to the busses. Figure 1–9 shows the locations of the DSSI and
SCSI connectors available for mass storage expansion.
Figure 1–9: Connectors for DSSI and SCSI Busses

Internal
SCSI
Bus

DSSI
BUS

SCSI
In/Out

MLO-005184

1.1.1.5 Power Supply Controls and Indicators
To the right of the card cage is the power supply. The power supply provides
power to the mass storage devices, the modules installed in the card cage,
and the fans.
To prevent damage due to overheating, the power supply monitors the
internal temperature and the speed of the fans. If the power supply detects
overheating or a fan failure, the power supply will shut down the system.

1–14 DECsystem 5500 Operation

Figure 1–10 shows the controls and indicators on the power supply.
Figure 1–10: Power Supply Controls and Indicators

Power Supply
Power Switch
AC Present Indicator
DC OK Indicator
Fan Failure
Indicator
Over Temperature
Condition Indicator

Power Bus
Connectors

Power Cable
Connector

MLO-004969

The controls and indicator lights function as follows.
Power switch — The power switch is used to turn system power
on and off. The off position is indicated by a 0; the on position is
indicated by a 1.
The power switch also functions as the system circuit breaker.
In the event of a power surge, the breaker will trip, causing the
power switch to return to the off position (0). Turning on the
system resets the circuit breaker. If the circuit breaker trips,
wait one minute before turning on the system again.

System Overview

1–15

AC Present Indicator — The orange AC Present indicator lights
when the power switch is set to on and voltage is present at the
input of the power supply. If the AC Present indicator does not
light when the power switch is set to on, refer to your DECsystem
5500 Troubleshooting and Diagnostics manual.
DC OK — When the green DC OK indicator is lit, the power
supply voltages are within the correct operating range. If the DC
OK indicator does not light when the power switch is set to on,
refer to your DECsystem 5500 Troubleshooting and Diagnostics
manual.
Fan Failure indicator — The amber Fan Failure indicator lights
if either of the two cooling fans stop working. The power supply
will automatically shut down the system as a precautionary
measure when a fan failure is detected. Call your Digital service
representative if a fan failure occurs.
Over Temperature Condition indicator — The amber Over
Temperature Condition indicator lights if the enclosure has shut
down due to an over temperature condition. Section 2.10 provides
instructions on recovering from an over temperature condition.
Power bus connectors — Three power bus connectors allow you
to configure a power bus for systems expanded with a B400X
or R400X expander. The power bus allows you to turn power
on and off for one or more expanders through the power supply
designated as the main power supply; this way, one power switch
can control power for an entire expanded system. Figure 1–11
illustrates a possible power bus configuration for an expanded
system.
The main out (MO) connector sends the power control
bus signal to the expander. One end of a power bus
cable is connected here, the other end is connected to the
secondary in (SI) connector of an expander power supply.
The secondary in (SI) connector receives the power bus
control signal from the main (system) power supply. In
a power bus with more than one expander, the power
control bus signal is passed along, using the secondary
in and out connectors as shown in Figure 1–11.

1–16 DECsystem 5500 Operation

The secondary out (SO) connector sends the signal down
the power bus for configurations of more than one
expander.
Figure 1–11: Sample Power Bus Configuration
System

Expander 1

Expander 2

MLO-004041

1.1.1.6 Fans
Two fans located under the card cage draw air in through the top of the
enclosure, down through the card cage, and out the bottom. The speed of
the fans varies, depending on the surrounding room temperature. To reduce
the load on the fans, keep the system away from heat sources. Figure 1–12
shows the air flow through the system enclosure.
NOTE: The power supply monitors the fans. If either fan stops working,
the Fan Failure indicator on the power supply lights, and the system
automatically shuts down as a precautionary measure. Call your Digital
service representative if a fan fails.
NOTE: The fan speed control can be set so that the fans will run at their
maximum speed. This setting is recommended if you want potentially higher
system module reliability, and do not object to the increased fan noise.
Contact your Digital service representative to override the fan speed control.

System Overview

1–17

Figure 1–12: System Air Circulation

MLO-004042

1.2 Functional Description of Base System
Each DECsystem 5500 includes base system components common to all
systems. Your system may have optional components as well. Your system
was configured at the factory, based on your order.
The following sections describe base system components and options, in
turn.

1.2.1 Base System Components
Base system components include the following:
•

Central processing unit (CPU)

•

Console serial line unit (SLU)

•

Main memory

•

Network controller

•

Embedded DSSI adapter

•

Embedded SCSI adapter

1–18 DECsystem 5500 Operation

1.2.1.1 Central Processing Unit (CPU)
The central processing unit (CPU) controls the execution of all instructions
and processes. The CPU circuits contain the logic, arithmetic, and control
functions used by the system. DECsystem 5500 systems use the RISCbased KN220 CPU module set.
1.2.1.2 Console Serial Line Unit (SLU)
Each system has a serial line unit connecting the console terminal to the
system. The SLU connector (a modified modular jack) is located on the CPU
cover panel. The console serial line provides a means of communicating
with the CPU.
1.2.1.3 Main Memory
Main memory provides the electrical storage area for data and instructions
used by the CPU. When you start your system, the operating system is
loaded into main memory. Application programs must also be loaded into
memory.
When the system cannot load everything into memory at once, it reads
in units of data called pages (512 bytes of data) from disk. A large main
memory increases the efficiency of processing, since fewer pages must be
copied to and from the disk. Each configuration comes with a standard
memory option and capacity for up to four memory modules. By adding
more main memory, you can increase efficiency.
The contents of memory are volatile. This means they are lost when
you turn off power to the system. Use mass storage devices, such as
integrated storage elements and tape cartridges, to store software and data
permanently.
1.2.1.4 Network Controller
Network communications controllers allow you to connect to an Ethernet
network. With a network connection and appropriate network software, you
can use network services, such as mail; access data stored on other systems;
perform operations, such as editing and printing on remote systems; and
share resources, such as laser printers. Your system comes with an
on-board Ethernet controller that is part of the CPU module set. The
system can be connected to either a standard Ethernet cable or a ThinWire
Ethernet cable. Connectors for both types of cables are on the CPU cover
panel.

System Overview

1–19

1.2.1.5 Embedded DSSI Adapter
Your system has a Digital Storage System Interconnect (DSSI) adapter built
into the CPU. The DSSI adapter provides a DSSI bus through which the
CPU can communicate with the RF-series ISEs. A DSSI bus can support
seven RF-series ISEs.
1.2.1.6 Embedded SCSI Adapter
Your system has a Small Computer System Interface (SCSI) adapter built
into the CPU. The SCSI adapter provides a SCSI bus through which the
CPU can communicate with the RZ-series ISEs, TLZ04 tape drive, or
RRD40 compact disk drive. A SCSI bus can support up to seven devices.

1.2.2 Optional Components
System options can include multiples of components that are part of the
base system (for example, additional memory modules or ISEs) and the
following kinds of options:
•

Mass storage devices and controllers

•

Mass storage subsystems

•

Mass storage expanders

•

Communications controllers and adapters

•

Printer interfaces

1.2.2.1 Mass Storage Devices and Controllers
Mass storage devices record data on magnetic media. The data recorded is
not lost when you turn off the system, but can be altered or erased if you
record over the data. Use mass storage devices to store data and software
permanently. When the data or software is needed, the CPU transfers it
from the mass storage device into main memory. The two primary types of
mass storage devices are the RF-series or RZ-series ISEs, and devices with
removable media, such as tape cartridges and compact disks.
RF-Series Integrated Storage Elements (DSSI)
Up to four DSSI RF-series ISEs can be installed in your system. An ISE
is an intelligent storage device that contains its own controller. Special
mounting hardware allows the device to plug directly into the BA400-series
backplane.
RZ-Series Integrated Storage Elements (SCSI)
Up to four SCSI RZ-series ISEs can be installed in your system. RZ-series
ISEs deliver the capacity, speed, and dependability required by DECsystem

1–20 DECsystem 5500 Operation

5500 systems, while meeting SCSI standards. Each RZ-series ISE contains
its own controller. Special mounting hardware allows the device to plug
directly into the BA400-series backplane.
Devices with Removable Media
Devices with removable media, such as tape cartridges, are used as both
input and output devices. In addition, compact optical disks are used as
input devices when you install software or copy data to your system. You
use tape cartridges and tapes as output devices when you copy software or
data from your system. You can copy individual files or programs, or you
can copy (back up) the contents of an entire fixed disk. Tapes are commonly
used to archive data.
Mass Storage Controllers and Adapters
All mass storage devices require a controller, a device that controls activity
between the CPU and the mass storage devices. While RF-series ISEs,
RZ-series ISEs, and the TLZ04 tape drive have built-in controllers, other
storage options require a controller module located in your system’s card
cage. The controller for the TK70 tape drive is the TQK70; the KDA50 is
a controller for RA-series disk drives. Each KDA50 controller supports up
to four RA-series disk drives.
The CPU communicates with the RF-series ISEs through a DSSI adapter,
which is built into the CPU. The CPU communicates with the RZ-series
ISEs and the TLZ04 tape drive through a SCSI adapter, which is also built
into the CPU.
Additional DSSI busses can be added to your system by using the KFQSA
DSSI storage adapter. Each KFQSA storage adapter can support up to
seven RF-series ISEs. Additional SCSI busses can be added to your system
by using the KZQSA SCSI storage adapter. Each KZQSA storage adapter
can support up to seven SCSI devices.
1.2.2.2 Mass Storage Subsystems
Several optional mass storage subsystems are available for DECsystem
5500 systems. Such subsystems include RRD40 Digital Disk Subsystems,
the RV20 Optical Disk Subsystem, TS05 and TU81 tape drives, and the
SA600 Storage Array (with up to eight RA90 disk drives). If your system
includes an optional mass storage subsystem, refer to the user’s guide or
owner’s manual for that subsystem for instructions on how to operate the
device.

System Overview

1–21

1.2.2.3 Mass Storage and Q-bus Expanders
You can expand the mass storage capacity of your DECsystem 5500 system
by using the R400X expander. The R400X expander provides space for up
to seven additional RF-series or RZ-series ISEs, or a combination of both.
The B400X expander provides 11 additional Q-bus slots for a system total
of 22 Q-bus slots. The B400X also has room for up to four mass storage
devices. See your Digital representative for more information on these and
other expander products.
1.2.2.4 Communications Controllers
Besides the console serial line, most systems have additional communications controllers for connecting additional terminals, and for communicating with other systems over telephone or network lines. Communications
controllers provide standard interfaces between peripheral devices and the
system. Many communications controllers provide support for multiple
data lines.
The following types of communications controllers are available:
•

Asynchronous serial controllers

•

Synchronous serial controllers

•

DECservers

•

Network controllers

Serial controllers transmit data one character at a time. A device at the
transmitting end breaks bytes of data into bits. A device at the receiving
end assembles incoming bits into bytes of data.
Asynchronous Serial Controllers
Asynchronous serial controllers provide low-speed connections between
peripheral devices and the system. Asynchronous communication between
the system and the peripheral depends on recognition of a pattern of start
and stop bits, not on a time interval.
Asynchronous serial controllers may be divided into those without modem
support and those with modem support.
You use serial controllers without modem support to connect additional
terminals and printers to your system. For example, the CXA16 module
provides connections for up to 16 serial lines with no modem support.
NOTE: Printers equipped with a microprocessor (intelligent printers) may
require modem control signals to function correctly. Do not attach a printer
requiring modem control signals to a controller with no modem support.

1–22 DECsystem 5500 Operation

Check your printer documentation to determine the proper communications
interface for your printer.
Communications controllers with modem support allow you to communicate
over telephone lines. With a modem connected to your system, you can
access other computers and you can dial into your system from a remote
terminal or computer.
Computers transmit digital signals, while telephone lines (with the
exception of digital leased lines) transmit analog signals. When two
computers communicate over telephone lines, a modem is required at both
the transmitting and receiving ends of the line. At the transmitting end, the
modem converts digital signals from the computer (or terminal) to analog
signals prior to transmission. At the receiving end, another modem converts
the analog signals back into digital signals the computer can process.
The degree of modem support depends on the number of modem control
signals recognized by the device. Full modem support (according to Digital
standards) requires recognition of eleven signals. The CXY08 module
supports up to eight serial lines with full modem support.
Synchronous Serial Controllers
Synchronous serial controllers provide high-speed connections between
systems. Communication between synchronous devices depends on time
intervals that are synchronized before transmission of data begins.
Synchronous devices can also have modem support.
DECservers
DECservers are terminal servers (a combination of hardware and software)
that allow you to connect multiple terminals or printers to hosts in an
Ethernet local area network (LAN).
Terminal servers perform the functions of traditional data terminal
switches but multiplex the lines over the Ethernet. Using a DECserver
offloads communications processing from the host system.
Network Controllers
The network controller function for your system is implemented on the CPU
module, but a second network controller, the DESQA Ethernet adapter
module, can be added to your system.

System Overview

1–23

1.2.2.5 Printer Interfaces
Some printers require specific interfaces to communicate with the system.
For example, the LG01, LG02, and LP25–LP29 printers require the LPV11–
SA interface module.
1.2.2.6 Other Available Options
Your system arrives configured with the options you ordered. As your needs
change, you can add more options. Your Digital sales representative can
advise you on available options. DECsystem 5500 Technical Information
describes the options currently available for DECsystem 5500 systems.
Digital provides installation for additional options that you order.

1–24 DECsystem 5500 Operation

Chapter 2

Operating the System
This chapter describes how to operate your DECsystem 5500 once the
system software has been installed.

2.1 Before You Operate the System
This chapter assumes that your system has been properly installed.
Installation includes running the diagnostic software shipped with your
system and installing the ULTRIX operating system. To install the
operating system or layered products, see the instructions in your system
software installation manual or layered product installation manual. Some
of the instructions may require you to remove the front panel of the system
to change switch settings on the CPU cover panel.
NOTE: The use of Prestoserve™ software, included with your operating
system, requires a special CPU configuration. If the line
?79 1 0A FF 0000 0000

is displayed during power-up tests, your CPU is not configured to run
Prestoserve software. Contact your Digital service representative before
running Prestoserve software.
The remainder of this chapter assumes that system software has been
installed.

2.2 Switch Settings
Switch settings vary, depending on the operation being performed. The next
two sections describe switch settings for normal and for special operations.
Set the switches according to your needs.

2.2.1 Normal Operation
Switch settings for normal operation are the following:
•

Digital recommends you run the system with breaks disabled (Function
switch down, dot outside the circle) to prevent the user from

Operating the System

2–1

inadvertently halting the system by pressing Break on the console
terminal. Halting the system causes all activity to stop.
•

The Operation switch on the CPU cover panel is set to Normal
(indicated by an arrow).

•

The baud rate switch inside the CPU cover panel is set to 9600.

•

The Write-Protect button for each RF-series ISE is set to out (not lit).
This setting allows system software to write to the storage element.

•

The Run/Ready button for each RF-series ISE is set to in (glows green
when the storage element is not being used). This setting makes the
storage element available for use (on line).

•

The Halt button on the SCP is set to out (not lit).

•

For expanded systems using power bus cables to link an expander(s),
the power switches on all expander power supplies should remain on
(set to 1) at all times. The system power supply sends the power bus
signal needed to turn the expanders on or off.

2.2.2 Special Operation
Certain operations require that you change some of the normal operating
settings.
•

If you need the ability to halt the system from the console terminal, for
example, when installing system software or performing certain types
of backup, set the Function switch to up (dot inside the circle). This
allows you to halt the system by pressing Break on the console terminal.

•

If you want data on a particular ISE to be write-protected, during
backup procedures for example, you must set the Write-Protect switch
to in (glows).
NOTE: ISEs containing system software and user accounts must remain
write-enabled. ISEs containing applications or sensitive data may be
write-protected.

•

If you want to use the Language Selection Menu to select a new
language for the console program before you turn on your system, set
the Operation switch to the Action mode. A human profile indicates the
Action mode. Set the Function switch to down (dot outside the circle).
When you turn on your system, a Language Selection Menu appears,
as shown in Figure 2–1.

2–2 DECsystem 5500 Operation

Figure 2–1: Language Selection Menu
KN220-A Vn.n
1) Dansk
2) Deutsch (Deutschland/Österreich)
3) Deutsch (Schweiz)
4) English (United Kingdom)
5) English (United States/Canada)
6) Español
7) Français (Canada)
8) Français (France/Belgique)
9) Français (Suisse)
10) Italiano
11) Nederlands
12) Norsk
13) Português
14) Suomi
15) Svenska
(1..15):

Select a language by typing in the number listed next to the language.
Save the language you have selected by rotating the Operation switch
to Normal mode, indicated by an arrow.
NOTE: If you do not select a language within thirty seconds, the system
defaults to English (United States/Canada).
If the Operation switch is set to Normal mode (indicated by an arrow),
then the language selected is saved and is automatically used during
subsequent reboots of the system.
NOTE: If the Operation switch is set to Action mode (indicated by the
human profile) and the Function switch is set to down (dot outside the
circle), the system will prompt for the language at each power-up.
If your system has been powered off for more than 10 days, the battery
unit that saves the system clock and the language selection may have
run down. The Language Selection Menu will automatically display
when you power up your system, regardless of the Operation switch
setting. Once the system is booted, reset the system clock, as described
in your system software manual.

Operating the System

2–3

2.3 Turning On the System
Once you have set the switches correctly, you are ready to turn on the
system. Use the following procedure:
1. Turn on the console terminal and wait for it to complete its self-tests.
2. Turn on the system by setting the power switch to 1.
NOTE: For systems using the R400X or B400X expander linked by a
power bus cable, the power switch on the DECsystem 5500 provides the
power control bus signal to the expander(s). Setting the power switch to
on (1) on the DECsystem 5500 will cause the expander(s) to power up as
well. The power switch on each expander should always remain set to
on (1).
When you turn on the power, you should see the indications listed in Table
2–1.

Table 2–1: Normal Power-Up Indications
Indicator

Normal Indication

System DC OK lights (power supply and SCP)

Glow green

AC Present light (power supply)

Glows orange

RF-series ISE Run/Ready lights

Glow green steadily within 20
seconds

RF-series ISE Fault light

Lights temporarily at power-up.

TK70 tape drive indicator lights

Orange, yellow, and green lights
glow during self-tests. The green
light remains on.

TLZ04 tape drive indicators

Tape and drive indicators flash
during self-tests.
The drive
indicator glows green when selftests are successfully completed.

If you do not observe the indications in Table 2–1, refer to DECsystem 5500
Troubleshooting and Diagnostics.
Every time you turn on your system, it runs a series of self-tests on the
CPU and memory. Your console terminal first displays a line of information
identifying the CPU, the version of the firmware, and the version of the
hardware. In the sample screens provided in this chapter, the CPU is
identified as a KN220–A, and the version of the firmware is indicated
as Vn.n. Your system will display actual version numbers. The console

2–4 DECsystem 5500 Operation

terminal then displays a countdown as the system tests itself. Depending
on the value of the bootmode environment variable, when the self-tests are
successful, the system either autoboots system software or goes into console
mode, as described in Sections 2.4.1 and 2.4.2.
If your system detects an error during its self-tests, it displays an error
summary consisting of several lines of hexadecimal numbers and enters
Maintenance mode (>>>). A Digital service representative can use the error
summary to diagnose the system. Depending on the type of error, one or
more error summaries may display on the console terminal. A sample error
summary is shown in Figure 2–2.
Figure 2–2: Sample Error Summary
KN220-A Vn.n
Performing normal system tests.
83..82..81..80..79..78..77..76..75..74..73..72..71..70..69..68..67..
66..65..
?79 2 06 FF 0000 0007
P1 =28000000 P2 =2807FFFC P3 =00000000 P4 =00000000 P5 =00000000
P6 =00000000 P7 =00000000 P8 =00000000 P9 =00000000 P10=00000000
P11=00000000 P12=00000000 P13=00000000 P14=00000000 P15=00000000
P16=00000000 P17=00000000 P18=00000000 P19=00000000 P20=00000000
gp =1C270008 sp =B8001B1C fp =00000000 sr =B048FF04
epc=BFC2903C badvaddr =00000000 cause =00000000
64..63..62..61..60..59..58..57..56..55..54..53..52..51..50..
49..48..47..46..45..44..43..42..41..40..39..38..37..36..35..34..33..
32..31..30..29..28..27..26..25..24..23..22..21..20..19..18..17..16..
15..14..13..12..11..10..09..08..07..06..05..04..03..
Normal operation not possible.
>>>

If possible, print out or copy down the error summary and give it to your
Digital service representative.

2.4 Booting the System
DECsystem 5500 systems boot in one of two ways. You can manually boot
the system from console mode or you can configure the system to autoboot
on power-up. The value of the bootmode environment variable determines
how the system boots.

Operating the System

2–5

2.4.1 Booting the System from Console Mode
When the bootmode environment variable is not initialized (as shipped
from the factory) the system powers up to console mode (>> prompt) after
successfully completing its self-tests.
NOTE: The memory size and Ethernet address are displayed when self-tests
complete successfully.
Figure 2–3 shows a successful power-up to console mode.
Figure 2–3: Successful Power-Up to Console Mode
KN220-A Vn.n
Performing normal system tests.
83..82..81..80..79..78..77..76..75..74..73..72..71..70..69..68..67..
66..65..64..63..62..61..60..59..58..57..56..55..54..53..52..51..50..
49..48..47..46..45..44..43..42..41..40..39..38..37..36..35..34..33..
32..31..30..29..28..27..26..25..24..23..22..21..20..19..18..17..16..
15..14..13..12..11..10..09..08..07..06..05..04..03..
Tests completed.
Memory Size: 16777216 (0x1000000)
Ethernet Address: 08-00-2b-0c-c4-7a
>>

NOTE: If the line
?79 1 0A FF 0000 0000

is displayed during power-up tests, your CPU is not configured to run
Prestoserve™ software. Contact your Digital service representative before
running Prestoserve software.
Loading System Software
To load system software from console mode, use the command
boot [-f file] [-s | -m] [-n] [arg...]
For example,
>> boot -f tm(0,0)

tells the system to boot software from a cartridge in the TK70 tape drive.
For a complete description of the boot command, refer to the section on
console commands, Section 2.11.

2–6 DECsystem 5500 Operation

Software manuals may instruct you to power up with the Function switch
set to breaks enabled, or up (dot inside the circle), and to use the boot
command.

2.4.2 Autobooting the System
By assigning values to environment variables, you can define a device from
which the system will automatically boot at power up. Use the setenv
command to assign values to the bootpath and bootmode environment
variables. The bootpath variable specifies a device from which to autoboot.
The bootmode variable must be set to a for the system to autoboot. For
example,
>> setenv bootpath rf(0,0,0)vmunix
>> setenv bootmode a

defines an RF-series ISE with controller 0, unit number 0, and logical block
number 0 as the boot device; and a value of a (autoboot) is assigned to the
bootmode variable. Now, when the system is powered up, the system runs
self-tests and, on completion, attempts to load system software from ISE 0.
For a complete description of the setenv and unsetenv commands, refer
to Section 2.11.
Figure 2–4 shows a successful power-up and automatic boot when a boot
device has been specified.
Figure 2–4: Successful Power-Up and Automatic Boot
KN220-A Vn.n
Performing normal system tests.
83..82..81..80..79..78..77..76..75..74..73..72..71..70..69..68..67..
66..65..64..63..62..61..60..59..58..57..56..55..54..53..52..51..50..
49..48..47..46..45..44..43..42..41..40..39..38..37..36..35..34..33..
32..31..30..29..28..27..26..25..24..23..22..21..20..19..18..17..16..
15..14..13..12..11..10..09..08..07..06..05..04..03..
Tests completed.
Autoboot:Waiting to load rf(0,0,0)vmunix(CTRL-C to abort)...loading

NOTE: If the line
?79 1 0A FF 0000 0000

is displayed during power-up tests, your CPU is not configured to run
Prestoserve™ software. Contact your Digital service representative before
running Prestoserve software.

Operating the System

2–7

Changing the Boot Device
Once you have set the environment variables to recognize a boot device and
to autoboot, the system autoboots from that device each time you turn on
the system. These environment variables are stored in nonvolatile memory
and will remain in effect until you change their values. You can change
the variables by using the setenv command to assign a new boot device.
To display console environment variables and their current values, use the
printenv command at the console prompt (>>). For a complete description
of each console command, refer to Section 2.11.

2.5 Using Console Security
DECsystem 5500 systems have a console security feature as part of the
console firmware. The security feature allows you to secure the system.
When the system is secure, unprivileged users (users who do not know the
security password) are limited to the boot command (with no arguments).
Privileged users, knowing the security password, have access to all console
commands.
Securing the System
To secure the system, use the passwd command as follows:
NOTE: If unprivileged users are to be allowed to boot the system, the system
manager should assign values to the bootpath and bootmode variables before
securing the system. Once the system is secure, unprivileged users cannot
issue the boot command with arguments.
1. At the console prompt (>>), enter the set password command,
passwd -s.

2. At the ‘‘New password:’’ prompt, enter a password of 8 to 32 characters.
You must retype the password for verification.
3. After the password has been accepted, enter the command
passwd -u

which causes the console module to display the unprivileged console
prompt (s>). Unprivileged users are limited to the boot command with
no arguments.
The following example shows how to secure the system.

2–8 DECsystem 5500 Operation

>> passwd -s
New password:
Retype new password:
New password accepted
>> passwd -u
Memory Size: 16777216 (0x1000000) bytes
Ethernet Address: 08-00-2b-12-81-22
s>

4. To maintain security, the Operation switch should remain set to Normal
mode (indicated by the arrow) and the lower front door should be locked.
Privileged Users
By entering the security password, privileged users have access to all the
console commands. In the example below, the passwd command is used to
access the privileged console prompt (>>).
s> passwd
Password:
Password accepted.
Memory Size: 16777216 (0x1000000) bytes
Ethernet Address: 08-00-2b-12-81-22
>>

For a complete
Section 2.11.13.

description

the

passwd

command,

refer

Unsecuring the System
Privileged users can remove the security restrictions by entering the clear
password command, passwd -c, at the console prompt (>>). For example,
>> passwd -c
>>

removes all security restrictions from the console firmware. The system is
now unsecure.
If you forget the security password, you must use the following procedure
to clear the password.
1. Set the Operation switch to the Maintenance mode setting (indicated
by a T inside a circle).
2. Press the Restart button on the System Control Panel (SCP).
3. After the system completes self-tests, enter the maintenance command
unpriv at the Maintenance mode prompt (>>>).
4. Reset the Operation switch to the Normal mode setting (indicated by
an arrow).

Operating the System

2–9

5. Press the Restart button and wait for self-test to complete. You can
now enter a new security password.
For a complete description of the passwd and unpriv commands, refer to
Section 2.11.

2.6 Using the System
Once the system software is loaded, the first screen for the system software
is displayed on the console terminal after a few seconds. That display is
described in the system software documentation.
You are now ready to use the system. Refer to the system software manuals
and application manuals for more specific instructions on using the system.
Your system software manuals cover the following:
•

Installing software on your system

•

Running software to perform tasks

•

Making and restoring backup copies of system software or data files

•

Accessing devices and utilities in your system

2.7 Halting the System
Halting the system interrupts all processes and returns control to the
console program. You may need to halt the system during software
installation. Or, you may want to boot the system from another device,
for example, a tape cartridge containing software.
CAUTION: Halting your system without following the shutdown procedure
described in your system software manuals may result in loss of data.
You can halt the system in two ways:
•

You can press the Halt button twice — in to halt the system, and out
to enter console mode.

•

If the Function switch on the CPU cover panel is set to up, or breaks
enabled (dot inside the circle), you can press the Break key on the
console terminal. If the Function switch is not set to up and you wish
to halt the system by pressing Break, change the setting of the Function
switch from down to up (dot inside the circle).
NOTE: If the power is on when you change the setting of the Function
switch, you must press the Restart button or power up your system again
for the new setting to take effect.

2–10 DECsystem 5500 Operation

CAUTION: If you shut off your console terminal while breaks are
enabled, the system will interpret the action as a break, and the system
halts.
When the console mode prompt (>>) is displayed on your screen, the system
is halted.
If you inadvertently halt the system, enter continue Return at the console
prompt. The processes interrupted by the halt will continue.

2.8 Restarting the System
NOTE: Restarting the system aborts all current and pending operations. To
prevent loss of data, warn all users to log off prior to restarting the system.
Follow the shutdown procedure described in your system software manuals
before restarting the system.
Restarting returns the system to a power-up condition. All current and
pending operations are aborted and the usual power-up tests are run.
You restart the system by pressing in the Restart button on the system
control panel.
NOTE: The Halt button must be out (not lit) to effect a restart operation.

2.9 Turning Off the System
CAUTION: Turning off your system without following the shutdown
procedure described in your system software manuals may result in loss
of data.
Once you have completed the recommended procedure, you can turn off
your system by setting the power switch to 0.
NOTE: For systems expanded with the R400X or B400X expander and
linked by a power bus cable, you need only turn off the system. The
expander(s) will power down when you set the system power switch to off
(0). The power switch for each expander should always remain set to on
(1). Note that the orange AC indicator on the expander power supply should
remain lit even though the system is powered down.

Operating the System

2–11

2.10 Recovering from an Over Temperature
Condition
If your system’s internal temperature approaches a level that may cause
components to overheat, an audible alarm will sound and the Over
Temperature Warning indicator on the SCP will flash. If the temperature
continues to increase, the system will automatically shut down.
When the system shuts down due to overheating, the Over Temperature
Condition indicator on the power supply remains lit. To recover from a
shutdown, set the power switch to off (0) and wait five minutes before
turning on the system.
To prevent an over temperature condition, use the following precautions:
•

Make sure your system is away from heat sources.

•

Check that the system’s air vents are not blocked.

•

Check that the room temperature is within acceptable operating limits:
10°C to 40°C (50°F to 104°F).

2.11 Console Commands
The console program displays the >> prompt when it is ready to accept
commands. Observe the following rules when typing console commands:
•

All commands typed at console level are case-sensitive. The console
firmware does not recognize uppercase and lowercase letters as the
same input.

•

Command execution begins when you press Return.

•

Enter numeric values as follows:
— Enter decimal values as a string of decimal digits with no leading
zeros (for example, 123).
— Enter octal values as a string of octal digits with a leading zero (for
example, 0177).
— Enter hexadecimal values as a string of hexadecimal digits preceded
by 0x (for example, 0x3ff).
— Enter binary values as a string of binary digits preceded by 0b (for
example, 0b1001).
— When reading or writing to memory, you have a choice of data
sizes: byte, halfword, or word. Because a word is four bytes,
successive addresses, when referenced by a word, are successive

2–12 DECsystem 5500 Operation

multiples of four. For example, the address following 0x80000004
is 0x80000008. An error will occur if you try to specify an address
that is not on a boundary for the data size you are using.
Conventions Used in This Section
•

Letters in bold monospace type are to be typed exactly as shown.

•

Letters in italics represent arguments for which you supply values.
(Note that help and menu screens display these arguments in all capital
letters.)

•

Arguments enclosed in square brackets ([ ]) are optional.

•

Ellipses (...) follow an argument that can be repeated.

•

A vertical bar ( | ) separates choices. You can think of it as a symbol
meaning or.

•

Parentheses are used as in algebraic expressions. For example,
-(b | h | w)
means enter -b or -h or -w.

Getting Help
You can get help with console command syntax in several ways:
•

You can enter help or a question mark (?) to display a menu of all
console commands.

•

You can enter the name of the command for which you want help as an
argument to help or ?.
For example, entering ? e at the console prompt (>>) displays the
syntax for the examine (e) command:
e [-(b|h|w)] ADDR
>>

•

If you type an incorrect command line, you get a help screen.
For example, the e command requires an addr argument. Entering e
-b at the console prompt (>>) without entering an address causes the
screen to display the correct syntax for the command:
e [-(b|h|w)] ADDR
>>

Operating the System

2–13

Console Commands
Table 2–2 lists the console commands.

Table 2–2: Console Commands
Command

Description

continue

Returns control to the processes interrupted by a halt signal

boot

Boots the operating system

Deposits data at a given address

dump

Dumps memory to the screen

Examines memory

exit1

Exits Maintenance mode and returns control to Normal console mode

fill

Deposits data in an address range

Resumes execution of the program in memory

help

Displays the syntax of console commands

init

Reinitializes memory

maint

Causes the console to enter Maintenance mode

passwd

Allows you to use the console security feature

printenv

Displays console environment variables

setenv

Sets console environment variables

show device1

Displays a list of available devices, their unit numbers, and controller
numbers

show dssi1

Displays a list of available DSSI storage devices, their unit numbers, and
controller numbers

show ethernet1

Displays the hardware address of your Ethernet controller.

show scsi1

Displays a list of available SCSI storage devices, their unit numbers, and
controller numbers

unpriv1

Sets the security password to zero

unsetenv

Unsets console environment variables

1 This command is only available in Maintenance mode.

2–14 DECsystem 5500 Operation

2.11.1 The boot Command
boot [-f file] [-s | -m] [-n] [arg...]
This command loads the file that contains the operating system.
•

The optional -f flag followed by the file parameter specifies the file you
want to use during a boot procedure. If you do not specify the -f flag and
a file, the file specified by the environment variable bootpath is loaded.
The file parameter has the format
dev([controller][,unit-number] [,logical block number])[filename]
— dev indicates the device from which you are booting the operating
system. Typical devices are rf for RF-series ISEs, rz for RZ-series
ISEs, ra for RA-series hard disk drives, tm for a TK70 tape drive,
tz for a TLZ04 tape drive, and mop for a network. Entering mop
nullifies the other arguments in the list, so that file takes the form
mop( ). Table 2–3 lists the device names for each device.

Table 2–3: Device Names
Device Type

Protocol

Number
of Units

Device Name

RF-series ISE

DSSI

RZ-series ISE

SCSI

RA-series fixed-disk

MSCP

TK70 tape drive

TMSCP

TLZ04 tape drive

SCSI

Ethernet adapter

MOP

mop

Ethernet adapter

TFTP

tftp

— controller indicates the ID number of the controller for the device
from which you are booting the operating system.
— unit-number indicates the unit number of the device from which
you are booting the operating system.
To display a list of devices, their unit numbers and controller
numbers, enter Maintenance mode and enter the command show
device at the Maintenance prompt >>>. After reviewing the
display, enter exit and press Return to return to the Normal console
prompt >>.

Operating the System

2–15

Example:
>> maint
>>>show device
DSSI Node 0 (R7QJNG)
-rf(0,0,*) (RF71)
DSSI Node 1 (TEST2)
-rf(1,1,*) (RF71)
DSSI Node 2 (BILLY)
-rf(2,2,*) (RF71)
DSSI Node 7 (*)
SCSI Node 0
-tz(0,0,*) (.....) -DIA0
SCSI Node 1
-rz(0,1,*) (RZ56 )
SCSI Node 7 (*)
Ethernet Adapter
-mop() -EZA0 (08-00-2B-12-81-22)
VME Interface Board - Not Installed
>>>exit
>>

As in the preceding example, the show device command displays
the device names followed by the controller number and unit
number in parentheses. The asterisk indicates the logical block
number variable, which is determined during installation of the
operating system software.
— logical block number specifies the absolute block number from the
beginning of the disk. Logical block numbers are only meaningful
for disk devices.
— file name indicates the name of the operating system file.
— The optional -s flag causes the operating system to boot in singleuser mode. Unless -s is specified, the system will boot in multiuser
mode -m.
— The optional -n flag causes the specified file to be loaded but not
executed.
— The optional arg parameter contains any information to be passed
to the booted image.

2–16 DECsystem 5500 Operation

Examples:
>> boot -f rf(2,2,0)vmunix

This command boots the file vmunix, located at logical block number 0 of
the second RF-series ISE (unit number 2), using controller 2.
>> boot -f rz(0,2,0)vmunix

This command boots the file vmunix, located at logical block number 0 of
the second RZ-series ISE (unit number 2), using controller 2.
>> boot -f ra(0,0,0)vmunix

This command boots the file vmunix, located at logical block number 0 of
the first hard disk (unit number 0), using controller 0.
>> boot -f tm(0,0)

This command boots from a TK70 tape drive, which is unit 5 in this
example.
>> boot -f tz(0,5)

This command boots from a TLZ04 tape drive, which is unit 0 in this
example.

2.11.2 The continue Command
continue
This command returns control to the processes interrupted by a halt signal.
Use this command if you inadvertently halt the system by pressing Break
or the Halt button.
Pressing Break or the Halt button causes the system state to be saved in
the halt state memory block. When you enter the continue command, the
system state is reloaded and execution continued.

2.11.3 The d (deposit) Command
d [[-(b | h | w)] [addr]] | [-H reg-name] val

This command deposits a single byte, halfword, or word value at the
specified address. If you repeat the command without specifying an address,
the data will be deposited in the next word location.
The first parameter, which is optional, indicates the data size. If not given,
data size defaults to word. If you do not specify a data size, a word is used.
•

Use -b to deposit 1 byte of data.

Operating the System

2–17

•

Use -h to deposit a halfword (2 bytes) of data.

•

Use -w to deposit a word (4 bytes) of data.

The addr parameter indicates the address to which you want data written.
System address space ranges from 0x80000000 to 0xbf000000.
The -H parameter specifies that the data is to be deposited to a register
in the halt state memory block. This memory location is where all the
R3000 internal registers are saved when the system is halted. The reg-name
parameter specifies the name of the particular R3000 internal register for
which you want data written.
The val parameter contains the data you want deposited at the given
address.
Example:
>> d -w 0x80000000 0xffffffff

This command deposits the value 0xffffffff, with a data size of one word, at
address 0x80000000.
Example:
>> d -H at 0x00ab

This command deposits the value 0x00ab, with a data size of one word, for
the R3000 internal register named ‘‘at’’ currently stored in the halt state
memory block.

2.11.4 The dump Command
dump [-H] | [[[-(b | h | w)] [-(o | d | u | x | c | B)]] | [-I]] rng

This command shows a formatted display of the contents of memory.
The -H parameter displays the contents of the halt state memory block. All
R3000 internal registers are stored in the halt state memory block when
the system is halted. The -H parameter option cannot be used with any
other command parameter.
The second parameter, which is optional, indicates the data size. If you do
not specify a data size, the system uses a word.
•

-b displays memory in bytes.

•

-h displays memory in halfwords.

•

-w displays memory in words.

2–18 DECsystem 5500 Operation

The next parameter, also optional, determines how data is displayed.
•

-o displays memory in octal format.

•

-d displays memory in decimal format.

•

-u displays memory in unsigned decimal format.

•

-x displays memory in hexadecimal format.

•

-c displays memory in ASCII format.

•

-B displays memory in binary format.

If no format argument is given, hexadecimal format is used.
The -I parameter displays memory in assembly language format.
The rng parameter indicates the range of memory you want to see. You can
specify the range in one of two ways:
•

addr#cnt displays the number of addresses specified by cnt, beginning
at addr.

•

addr:addr displays all values between the specified addresses.

Examples:
>> dump 0x80000000#0xf

This command uses hexadecimal format to dump the first 15 words of
memory to the screen.
>> dump -b 0x80000000#0xf

This command uses hexadecimal format to dump the first 15 bytes of
memory to the screen. The dump display shows rows of address contents.
The left-most column gives the address of the first field in each row.
>> dump -I 0x80030200:0x80030220
0x80030200:
c048228
jal
0x80030204:
2021
addu
0x80030208:
8fbf0014
lw
0x8003020c:
27bd0018
addiu
0x80030210:
3e00008
jr
0x80030214:
0
nop
0x80030218:
27bdffe8
addiu
0x8003021c:
afbf0014
sw
>>

0x801208a0
a0,zero,zero
ra,0x14(sp)
sp,0x18
ra
sp,0xffe8
ra,0x14(sp)

This command displays in assembly language format, all values between
the specified addresses. The first column lists the memory location in
hexadecimal, the second column lists the contents of the memory location,

Operating the System

2–19

the third column lists the R3000 assembly language instruction, and the
fourth column lists the corresponding operand.

2.11.5 The e (examine) Command
e [-(b | h | w)] addr
This command examines the byte, halfword, or word at the specified
address. If you repeat the command without specifying an address, the
next word location will be examined.
The first parameter, which is optional, indicates the data size. If not given,
data size defaults to word. If you do not specify the data size, a word is
used.
•

-b indicates a single byte.

•

-h indicates a halfword.

•

-w indicates a word.

The addr parameter indicates an address in the range 0x80000000 to
0xbf000000.
When you enter the examine command, a display similar to the following
appears:
0x80000005:

65 0x41

’A’

The left-most field echoes the address you entered.
The next three fields display the contents of the address in decimal,
hexadecimal, and ASCII formats, respectively. If the ASCII character is
unprintable, it is displayed as an octal value preceded by a backslash: for
example, ’\032’.
Example:
>> e 0x80000000

This command examines the word at address 0x80000000. The resulting
display might look like this:
0x80000000:

1008385985

2–20 DECsystem 5500 Operation

0x3c1abfc1

’\301’

2.11.6 The exit Command
exit
This command is used in Maintenance mode (>>>) to return control to
Normal console mode (>>).
Example:
>>>exit
>>

2.11.7 The fill Command
fill [-(b | h | w)] [-v val] rng
This command writes a specified value to a range of memory. If you do not
specify a value, the system puts zeros in the memory range.
The first parameter, which is optional, indicates the data size. If not given,
data size defaults to word.
•

-b indicates bytes.

•

-h indicates halfwords.

•

-w indicates words.

The optional parameter -v val specifies the numeric value to write to
memory. If you do not specify a value, all zeros are written. If the size
of val does not match the data size parameter, val is truncated or expanded
as necessary.
The rng parameter indicates the memory range. You can specify the range
in one of two ways:
•

addr#cnt fills addresses beginning at addr and continuing for cnt
locations.

•

addr:addr fills all locations between the two given addresses.

Example:
>> fill -v 0xffffffff 0x80000010:0x800000ff

This command sets all bits to 1 at addresses 16 to 255.

Operating the System

2–21

2.11.8 The go Command
go [pc]
This command transfers control to the indicated entry-point address.
The optional pc parameter indicates the entry-point address you want to
use.
If you do not specify an entry address, the system uses the entry point of
the program module that was most recently loaded. If no program module
was previously loaded, the system uses 0 as the entry-point address.

2.11.9 The help Command
help [cmd]
This command displays the correct syntax for the console commands.
The optional cmd parameter indicates the command for which you want
information. If you do not specify cmd, the complete console menu appears.

2.11.10 The ? Command
? [cmd]
This command functions exactly like the help command.

2.11.11 The init Command
init
This command fully initializes the system.
The effect of the init command is identical to turning on the power or
pressing the Reset button, except that the system does not execute its selftest. The memory size and Ethernet address are displayed.

2.11.12 The maint Command
maint
This command causes the console to enter Maintenance mode (>>>). This
command must be used before entering Maintenance mode commands. Its
companion command, exit, is used to return the console to Normal mode.

2–22 DECsystem 5500 Operation

Example:
>>
>> maint
>>>
>>>exit
>>

2.11.13 The passwd Command
passwd [-s | -c | -u]
The four variants of this command are used to control the console security
feature. Using the console security feature, you can secure the system and
limit unprivileged users (users who do not know the security password) to
the boot console command. Refer to Section 2.5 for more information.
The use of the passwd command with flags [-s | -c | -u] is restricted to
privileged mode (>>), while the use of passwd without flags is restricted
to unprivileged mode (s>).
passwd -s — This command is used to set a new security password.
The security password can be from 8 to 32 characters long. This variant
is available only in privileged mode (>>).
passwd -u — This command causes the console user to be unprivileged.
The unprivileged console prompt (s>) is displayed.
passwd — This command enables the console user to enter the security
password to access the privileged console prompt (>>).
passwd -c — This command removes security restrictions by clearing
the security password.

Operating the System

2–23

2.11.14 The printenv Command
printenv [evar...]
This command displays the current value for the specified environment
variable, or for all the environment variables.
The optional evar parameter indicates the variable whose value you want
to see. If you do not specify a variable, the complete environment variable
table is displayed. A typical display looks like this:
bootpath=
bootmode=*
console=0
scsiid0=7
scsiid1=7
scsiid2=7
scsiid3=7
scsiid4=7
scsiid5=7
scsiid6=7
scsiid7=7
baud=9600
systype=0x820b0a00
bitmap=0xa3ff0000
bitmaplen=0x1000
memdescriptor=0x5
osconsole=0

There are three types of variables: volatile (lost when power resumes),
nonvolatile (maintained after power resumes), and fixed (rebuilt when
power is turned on). Table 2–4 lists the default variables.

2–24 DECsystem 5500 Operation

Table 2–4: Default Environment Variables
Variable

Type

Description

bootpath

Nonvolatile

Indicates the default bootpath. The system uses this
variable when you type the auto command.
An
example of a bootpath definition is: rf(0,0,0)vmunix.

bootmode

Nonvolatile

Determines what programs run when the system is
turned on or reset. Use one of the following codes:
a

Autoboots the operating system using the bootpath
variable

Bypasses self-tests, system enters console mode
(>>).

console

Fixed

The system always selects TTY(0) as the console device.

scsiid#

Fixed

The SCSI controller number. The variable may be 0–7.
The default value is 7.

baud

Fixed

The baud rate of the console terminal line is determined
by the Baud Rate switch inside the CPU cover panel.
The factory setting is 9600.
For instructions on
changing the baud rate, refer to your DECsystem 5500
Technical Information manual. Allowed values are 300,
600, 2400, 4800, 9600, 19200, and 38400.

systype

Fixed

Identifies the processor. Bits 24–31 contain the CPU
type; bits 16–23 contain the system type (6 for KN220);
bits 08–15 contain the firmware revision level; and bits
00–07 contain the hardware version level.

bitmap

Fixed

Indicates the address of the memory bitmap. The
bitmap keeps track of good and bad memory pages.
Each bit corresponds to one page in memory; 1
indicates the page is good, and 0 indicates the page
is bad. Do not change this variable.

bitmaplen

Fixed

Indicates the length of the memory bitmap. Do not
change this variable.

memdescriptor

Volatile

Used to describe the memory configuration of the
system.
This variable is set using test 9A in
Maintenance mode.

osconsole

Fixed

The system always selects TTY(0) as the console device.

Operating the System

2–25

2.11.15 The setenv Command
setenv evar str
This command assigns new values to the specified environment variable.
Refer to the discussion of the printenv command for a description of each
variable.
•

The evar parameter indicates the variable you want to set.

•

The str parameter indicates the value you want to specify.

Example:
>> setenv bootmode a

The command in the above example assigns a value of a to the bootmode
variable. This will cause the system to autoboot at power-up.
You can also add your own environment variables. These variables are
stored in volatile memory. The environment variables table can contain up
to 16 variables, for a total of 256 characters.

2.11.16 The show device Command
show device
This Maintenance mode command displays a list of available devices, their
unit numbers, and controller numbers. The device names are followed by
the controller number and unit number in parentheses.
NOTE: This command may require a few minutes to list devices.
Example:
>> maint
>>>show device
DSSI Node 0 (R7QJNG)
-rf(0,0,*) (RF71)
DSSI Node 1 (TEST2)
-rf(1,1,*) (RF71)
DSSI Node 2 (BILLY)
-rf(2,2,*) (RF71)
DSSI Node 7 (*)
SCSI Node 0
-tz(0,0,*) (.....)

2–26 DECsystem 5500 Operation

SCSI Node 1
-rz(0,1,*) (RZ56 )
SCSI Node 7 (*)
Ethernet Adapter
-mop() -EZA0 (08-00-2B-12-81-22)
VME Interface Board - Not Installed
>>>exit
>>

2.11.17 The show dssi Command
show dssi
This Maintenance mode command displays a list of available DSSI storage
devices. The device names are followed by the controller number and unit
number in parentheses.
NOTE: This command may require a few minutes to list devices.
Example:
>> maint
>>>show dssi
DSSI Node 0 (R7QJNG)
-rf(0,0,*) (RF71)
DSSI Node 1 (TEST2)
-rf(1,1,*) (RF71)
DSSI Node 2 (BILLY)
-rf(2,2,*) (RF71)
DSSI Node 7 (*)
>>>exit
>>

2.11.18 The show ethernet Command
show ethernet
This Maintenance mode command displays the hardware address of your
on-board Ethernet controller, as well as the address for any additional
DESQA Ethernet controller in your system. As in the following example,
the DESQA module is indicated by XQA0.

Operating the System

2–27

Example:
>> maint
>>>show ethernet
Ethernet Adapter
-mop() -EZA0 (08-00-2B-12-81-22)
Ethernet Adapter 0 (774440)
-XQA0 (08-00-2B-06-16-F2)
>>>exit
>>

2.11.19 The show scsi Command
show scsi
This Maintenance mode command displays a list of available SCSI storage
devices. The device names are followed by the controller number and unit
number in parentheses.
NOTE: This command may require a few minutes to list devices.
Example:
>> maint
>>>show scsi
SCSI Node 0
-tz(0,0,*) (TLZ04)
SCSI Node 1
-rz(0,1,*) (RZ56 )
SCSI Node 2
-rz(0,2,*) (RRD40) -DIA2
SCSI Node 4
-tz(0,4,*) (.....) -DIA4
SCSI Node 7 (*)
>>>exit
>>

A second variation of this command, show scsi/full, provides the following
additional information for each SCSI device:
Device type
Storage capacity

2–28 DECsystem 5500 Operation

Product identification
Revision number
Removable or fixed storage medium (r or f)
>> maint
>>>show scsi/full
Boot Path
Dev
Cap (in Hex)
Product Id
Revs
r/f
----------------------------------------------------------------tz(0,0,*)
TAPE
4B0 MBs
TLZ04 1989(C)DEC
0304
r
-rz(0,1,*)
DISK
27A MBs
RZ56
(C) DEC
0200
f
-rz(0,2,*)
CDROM
23B MBs
RRD40
TM DEC
250E
r
-tz(0,4,*)
TAPE
5A MBs
................
....
r
SCSI Node 7
>>>exit
>>

2.11.20 The unpriv Command
unpriv
This Maintenance mode command clears the security password by setting
it to zero. This command is used to unsecure the console security feature
if you forget the security password. To enter Maintenance mode, set the
Operation switch to Maintenance mode (indicated by a T inside a circle).
Press the Restart button on the SCP. After clearing the password, you must
reset the Operation switch to Normal mode (indicated by an arrow) and
press the Restart button again.

2.11.21 The unsetenv Command
unsetenv evar
This command removes the specified variable from the environment
variables table.
The evar parameter indicates the variable you are removing. Refer to
Table 2–4 earlier in this section for a description of each variable.
The unsetenv command does not affect the environment variables stored
in nonvolatile memory. These variables are reset at the next reset or power
cycle.

Operating the System

2–29

2.12 Control Characters
Table 2–5 lists the key combinations that have an immediate effect in
console mode.

Table 2–5: Normal-Mode Control Characters
Character

Action

Return

Also <CR>. Ends a command line. Command characters are buffered until
you press Return .

DELETE

Deletes the previously typed character.
If you define the console terminal as hard copy (environment variable term
set to hardcopy), the deleted text is displayed surrounded by backslashes.
If the console terminal is a CRT (environment variable term set to crt),
each delete is displayed with the sequence <BS><SP><BS>.
Deletes received are ignored when there are no characters to be deleted.

CTRL/C

Causes the console to abort the processing of a command.

CTRL/O

Causes console output to be discarded until you enter the next CTRL/O or
until the next console prompt or error message is issued.
CTRL/O is also canceled when you enter CTRL/C .

CTRL/Q

Resumes console output that was suspended when you entered CTRL/S .

CTRL/R

Causes the current command line to be displayed without any deleted
characters.

CTRL/S

Suspends output on the console terminal until you enter CTRL/Q .

CTRL/U

Discards all characters accumulated for the current line.

CTRL/V

Suppresses any special meaning associated with the next character.

2–30 DECsystem 5500 Operation

Chapter 3

Operating the System Options
This chapter describes how to use options that may already be part of your
system, or that you can add to your system. The following types of options
are covered:
•

Mass storage devices and controllers

•

Communications controllers

•

Printers

3.1 Mass Storage Options
The following mass storage options are available with DECsystem 5500
pedestal systems:
•

TK70 tape drive

•

TLZ04 tape drive

•

RF-series Integrated Storage Elements

•

RZ-series Integrated Storage Elements

NOTE: In addition, the RV20 Optical Disk Subsystem, RRD40 Digital Disk
Subsystems, and TSV05 and TU81 tape drives can be attached to the
DECsystem 5500 system. If your system contains one of these options, refer
to the user’s guide or owner’s manual for instructions on how to operate the
device.
This chapter describes how to use TK70 and TLZ04 tape drives; it also
describes how to use the controls for RF-series and RZ-series ISEs. In
the case of the tape drive, it also describes how to insert and remove the
tape cartridge. To use any mass storage device, you must properly identify
the device to the operating system and use appropriate operating system
commands. Refer to your system software documentation for details.

Operating the System Options

3–1

3.1.1 TK70 Tape Drive
The TK70 tape drive is located behind the upper door of the system. To use
the drive, move the key to the top position and open the door.
The TK70 tape drive holds one removable magnetic tape cartridge. The
drive can read data written on either a CompacTape II or CompacTape
cartridge. You can identify the type of cartridge by the label on the
cartridge.
You can use a CompacTape II or CompacTape cartridge as an input device
to load software or data into your system. The TK70 drive can read data
on both types of cartridges, written by either a TK70 drive or a TK50 drive.
(The TK50 drive records data in a format different from that of the TK70.)
You should use a CompacTape II as an output device to make copies or
backups of software or data. The TK70 drive cannot write to a CompacTape
II or CompacTape that has been previously written by a TK50 tape drive.
TK70 Tape Drive Controls
The tape drive has two primary controls: the cartridge insert/release handle
(subsequently referred to as ‘‘the handle’’) and the Unload button. You use
the handle to insert or remove cartridges and lock them into position. Pull
the handle open to insert or remove a tape cartridge. Push the handle
closed to lock a tape cartridge into position and load the tape.
You use the Unload button to rewind and unload the tape. Unloading and
rewinding can also be controlled by software. Refer to your system software
manuals for appropriate commands.
The drive also has three indicator lights that tell you the status of the drive.
•

Orange light (Write-Protected): A steady orange light indicates that the
cartridge is write-protected.

•

Yellow light (Tape in Use): A steady yellow light indicates that the tape
is loaded. A blinking yellow light indicates that the tape is in motion.

•

Green light (Operate Handle): A steady green light indicates that you
can move the handle to insert or remove a tape. A blinking green light
indicates a cartridge load fault. You can also move the handle when
the green light is blinking.

All three lights blinking simultaneously indicates a fault condition.
Figure 3–1 shows the TK70 tape drive with the controls and indicator lights
labeled.

3–2 DECsystem 5500 Operation

To operate the drive properly, you must carefully monitor the indicator
lights. The instructions for inserting and removing cartridges, which
appear later in this section, tell you what should happen at each step. A
table at the end of the section summarizes light and control combinations.
Figure 3–1: TK70 Tape Drive

Orange Light
Yellow Light
Green Light
Unload Button

Handle

MLO-002292

3.1.1.1 Design of the Drive
The TK70 tape drive operates like a reel-to-reel tape deck. Inside the drive
is a take-up reel with a leader attached. Inside the cartridge is a single
reel containing the magnetic tape. When you insert the cartridge and push
in the handle, the leader in the drive automatically couples with the leader
in the cartridge, and the tape winds onto the take-up reel. The coupling
and winding process is called loading. When the automatic loading process
is complete, the tape is ready to use.
Once the cartridge is loaded, you cannot remove it without rewinding and
uncoupling the leaders, a process called unloading. Even if you have not
used the tape, you must unload it before you can remove the cartridge.
When you press the Unload button, the tape rewinds into the cartridge
and the leaders uncouple.

Operating the System Options

3–3

3.1.1.2 Labeling a Tape Cartridge
When recording data on a cartridge, label its contents.
For your
convenience, a slot for the label is provided on the front of the cartridge.
Write the identification on the label and insert the label in the slot on the
front of the cartridge, as shown in Figure 3–2. The label is visible when
the tape is in the drive.
Figure 3–2: Labeling a Tape Cartridge

Label Slot

MLO-000960

To indicate that the tape was recorded on a TK70 tape drive, check the box
labeled 296MB. The 95MB box is used for tapes recorded on a TK50 drive.
NOTE: Do not write on the tape cartridge or attach labels to the top, bottom,
or sides of the cartridge.

3–4 DECsystem 5500 Operation

3.1.1.3 Write-Protecting a Tape Cartridge
Write-protecting a tape cartridge prevents accidental erasure of information
stored on the tape. You can write-protect a tape cartridge in two ways:
•

Set the write-protect switch on the cartridge to the write-protect
position.

•

Write-protect the cartridge by using operating system commands
described in your system software manuals.

Your system can read information on the tape regardless of the position of
the write-protect switch or whether writing is software-disabled. However,
the system cannot write data to the tape when the write-protect switch is
set to the write-protect position, or when writing is software disabled.
When you use a cartridge to install software, make sure the cartridge is
write-protected. Two icons on the switch indicate the write-protect status,
as shown in Figure 3–3. An orange rectangle is visible when the switch is
in the write-protect position. If you do not see an orange rectangle, slide
the switch toward the label slot.
When you insert a write-protected cartridge into the drive, the orange
indicator light comes on. The system recognizes the tape as being writeprotected under any one of the following conditions:
•

The write-protect switch on the cartridge is set to the write-protect
position.

•

An operating system command has write-protected the tape.

•

A tape recorded on a TK50 tape drive is inserted into the drive.

Removing write-protection depends on how the tape was recorded and
how it is write-protected. You cannot write-enable a tape recorded on a
TK50 tape drive either by moving the write-protect switch on the cartridge
or by using software commands. The TK70 drive always recognizes a
tape recorded on a TK50 drive as write-protected. You can remove writeprotection on tapes recorded on a TK70 drive as follows:
•

If the cartridge is write-protected only by the write-protect switch on
the cartridge and not the operating system, moving the switch to the
write-enabled position causes the orange light to go out at the end of
the executing command.

Operating the System Options

3–5

Figure 3–3: Tape Cartridge Write-Protect Switch

WriteProtected

Not WriteProtected

MLO-000961

•

If the cartridge is write-protected only by a software command and
not the write-protect switch, removing the operating system restriction
causes the orange light to go out.

•

If the cartridge is write-protected by both the switch on the cartridge
and a software command, you must change the switch setting and
remove the operating system restriction.

3–6 DECsystem 5500 Operation

When you use a CompacTape II cartridge to make a backup copy of files,
make sure the orange write-protect light on the TK70 drive is off. If the
light is not off, check for any of the write-protect conditions described above.
Change the switch setting and/or operating system restriction as necessary.
Do not begin your operation until the orange light goes off.
3.1.1.4 Tape Cartridge Handling and Storage Guidelines
•

Do not touch the exposed surface of the tape.

•

Do not drop the tape cartridge. The impact from a fall can damage the
tape cartridge.

•

Allow new tapes to stabilize at room temperature for 24 hours before
using them.

•

Place an identification label only in the label slot on the front of the
tape cartridge.

•

Store tape cartridges in a dust-free environment.

•

Keep tape cartridges away from direct sunlight, heaters, and other
sources of heat. Store tape cartridges in a stable temperature between
10° and 40° Celsius (50° and 104° Fahrenheit).

•

Store tape cartridges where the relative humidity is between 20 and 80
percent.

•

Keep tape cartridges away from magnets and equipment that generate
magnetic fields, such as motors, transformers, terminals, and audio
equipment.

•

Keep tape cartridges away from x-ray equipment.

3.1.1.5 Inserting a Tape Cartridge
Before you use the tape drive, make sure the system is turned on (the
power switch glows). During power-up, the TK70 drive runs self-tests that
last a few seconds. All three lights (orange, yellow, and green) come on
momentarily, then the yellow light blinks during the self-tests. At the
end of the tests, the yellow light goes off and the green light comes on,
accompanied by a short beep. The green light and the beep indicate that
you can move the cartridge release handle.
CAUTION: Move the handle only when the green indicator light is on.
Moving the handle while the yellow light is on could damage the drive.
If all three lights blink rapidly at any time, a fault condition exists. Press
the Unload button once. If the fault is cleared, the tape unloads. The yellow
light blinks during unloading, then the green light comes on. If the fault

Operating the System Options

3–7

is not cleared, the three lights continue to flash. Do not attempt to use
the tape drive or to remove the tape cartridge. Call your Digital service
representative.
Use the following procedure to insert a tape cartridge (see Figure 3–4):
1. Pull the handle open.
2. Position the cartridge so the arrow on the cartridge faces left and points
toward the drive. Insert the cartridge into the TK70 tape drive until
you feel the cartridge lock into place.
3. Push the handle closed.
The green light goes off and the yellow light blinks as the tape loads.
When the yellow light glows steadily, the tape is ready to use.
NOTE: If the green light blinks rapidly when you push the handle
closed, the drive has detected a cartridge fault. Pull the handle open
and remove the cartridge. Use another cartridge.
Refer to Appendix C of this manual for instructions on how to create backup
files on a tape cartridge.
NOTE: If a cartridge is new, the drive performs a calibration sequence that
takes approximately 30 seconds when the drive receives the first command
from the operating system. The yellow light blinks rapidly and irregularly
during calibration.

3–8 DECsystem 5500 Operation

Figure 3–4: Inserting a Tape Cartridge

1
Green Light is on

Handle

Cartridge Arrow
is Facing Left

3
Yellow Light Blinks

MLO-002459

Operating the System Options

3–9

3.1.1.6 Removing a Tape Cartridge
You must unload a tape before you can remove the cartridge from the tape
drive. Use the following procedure (see Figure 3–5):
1. Press the Unload button. You can also issue a software command to
unload the cartridge. Refer to your system software manuals for the
appropriate command.
The yellow light blinks slowly, as the tape rewinds and unloads into the
cartridge. This may take up to 90 seconds.
2. When the yellow light goes off and the green light comes on (you also
hear a beep), pull the handle open.
CAUTION: Move the handle only when the yellow indicator light is off
and the green indicator light is on. Moving the handle while the yellow
light is blinking could damage the drive.
3. Remove the tape cartridge and store it in its container.
4. Push the handle closed.
The green light remains on, indicating that there is power to the drive and
that you can safely move the handle.
CAUTION: Remove the tape cartridge from the tape drive when the cartridge
is not in use or before you turn off the system. Failure to remove the cartridge
may damage the tape cartridge.

3–10 DECsystem 5500 Operation

Figure 3–5: Removing a Tape Cartridge

1
Unload Button
Yellow Light Blinks

2
Green Light is on

Handle

Cartridge Arrow is Facing Left

Green Light is on

MLO-002460

Operating the System Options

3–11

3.1.1.7 Summary of TK70 Tape Drive Controls and Indicator Lights
Table 3–1 summarizes the TK70 tape drive controls. Table 3–2 describes
the meaning of the indicator lights.

Table 3–1: TK70 Tape Drive Controls
Control

Position

Function

Handle

Open

Lets you insert or remove a tape after rewind and
unload operations are completed.

Closed

Locks tape in operating position and begins load
sequence.

Momentary
contact switch

Rewinds and unloads the tape.

Unload button

Table 3–2: TK70 Tape Drive Indicator Lights
Orange

Yellow

Green

Condition

Off

No power to the tape drive.

Off

On steadily

Safe to move cartridge release
handle. Power is present.

Off

Blinking

Load fault. The cartridge leader
may be defective. Pull out the
handle and remove the cartridge.
Do not use the cartridge.

On/Off

On steadily

Off

Tape is loaded but not in motion.

On/Off

Blinking

Off

Tape is in motion.

On steadily/
blinking

Cartridge is write-protected.

Blinking

A fault is occurring. Press the
Unload button to unload the tape
cartridge. If the fault is cleared,
the yellow light blinks while the
tape rewinds. When the green light
comes on, you can move the handle
to remove the cartridge. If the
fault is not cleared, all three lights
continue to blink. Do not attempt
to remove the tape cartridge. Call
your Digital service representative.

3–12 DECsystem 5500 Operation

3.1.2 TLZ04 Tape Drive
The TLZ04 tape drive is located behind the upper door of the system. To
use the drive, move the key to the top position and open the door.
The TLZ04 tape drive is a backup device that uses digital data storage
(DDS) and digital audio tape (DAT) recording technologies. Digital audio
tape, such as TLZ04 cassettes, takes advantage of the TLZ04 tape drive’s
helical scan technology. This technology allows more data to be stored
on tape by recording data diagonally. DAT recording also minimizes
‘‘crosstalk,’’ providing you with higher data integrity.
Digital data storage uses a recording format that supports the use of digital
audio tape for computer applications. The DDS/DAT format allows you to
back up 1.2 gigabytes of data in approximately 2 hours with no operator
intervention. In addition, this format has three levels of error correction,
which ensures high data integrity.
TLZ04 Tape Drive Controls and Indicators
Figure 3–6 shows the TLZ04 tape drive.
The unload button is used to eject the cassette tape. The Tape and Drive
indicators show the status of the TLZ04 and can indicate possible error
conditions.
CAUTION: Pressing the unload button during normal tape operations may
halt the tape operation in progress.
Table 3–3 describes the TLZ04 drive indicators as they apply to normal
operating conditions. Table 3–4 describes the TLZ04 drive indicators as
they apply to abnormal operating conditions.

Operating the System Options

3–13

Figure 3–6: TLZ04 Tape Drive

Unload
Button

Drive Indicator

Tape Indicator

MLO-005328

Table 3–3: TLZ04 Drive Indicators (Normal Conditions)
Indicator

Color(s)

Tape

Meaning
Indicates status of cassette tape as follows.

Solid green

Tape loaded.

Solid yellow

Tape loaded and write protected.

Drive

Indicates status of TLZ04 drive as follows.
Solid green

Drive ready/power on.

Flashing green

Drive active.

Flashing yellow

Power-on self-test in progress.

3–14 DECsystem 5500 Operation

Table 3–4: TLZ04 Drive Indicators (Abnormal Conditions)
Indicator

Color(s)

Meaning

Tape

Slow flashing
green or yellow

Excessive tape errors. Use the head cleaning cassette.
If failure repeats itself, use another cassette tape.

Tape and Drive

Solid yellow

High humidity. Adjust operating environment.

Tape

Flashing yellow
1-3 times

Power-on self-test failed.

Drive

Solid yellow

Power-on self-test failed.

3.1.2.1 Proper Handling of Cassette Tapes
Digital Equipment Corporation recommends that you use TLZ04 cassette
tapes. To ensure optimal performance from your cassette tapes, observe
the following guidelines when handling them.
•

Avoid placing the cassette tapes near sources of electromagnetic
interference, such as terminals, and video or X-ray equipment.
Emissions from such equipment can erase data on the tape.

•

Keep cassette tapes out of direct sunlight and away from heaters and
other sources of heat.

•

Store cassette tapes (and cleaning cassette) where the room
temperatures are between 5°C and 32°C (40°F and 90°F).

•

Store cassette tapes in a dust-free environment where the relative
humidity is 20% to 60%.

3.1.2.2 Setting the Write-Protect Tab on the Cassette Tape
If you wish to read or copy from a tape, set the write-protect tab on the
cassette to write protect. This disables writing to tape, and ensures data
integrity. Use a pen (not pencil) to set the write-protect tab (Figure 3–7) to
the desired position.
Observe the following guidelines when setting the write-protect tab.
•

If you are reading data (copying from tape), set the write-protect tab to
write protected.

•

If you are writing data, set the write-protect tab to write enabled.

•

Write-protect tab position displays in front panel tape indicator.

Operating the System Options

3–15

Figure 3–7: Setting the Write-Protect Tab on the Cassette Tape

WriteProtected

D
D ig
S at ita
to a l
ra
g
e

Not WriteProtected

MLO-005329

3.1.2.3 Inserting a Cassette Tape into the Drive
Insert the TLZ04 cassette tape into the drive with the cassette’s writeprotect tab at the top, as shown in Figure 3–8.

3–16 DECsystem 5500 Operation

Digital
Data
Storage

Figure 3–8: Inserting a Cassette Tape into the Drive

This fig. was rotated with QA trilb

MLO-005331

3.1.2.4 System Software
System software allows you to execute commands to read and write data to
the cassette tape. Your operating system documentation describes specific
commands that allow you to do the following:
•

Back up data from disk drives to a tape drive

•

Copy data from disk to tape, or tape to disk

Operating the System Options

3–17

3.1.2.5 Cleaning the Heads
Statistics show that over ninety percent of drive-related problems are
associated with the media. Therefore, Digital Equipment Corporation
strongly recommends that you follow the instructions for handling cassette
tapes and cleaning the heads of the drive.
This section shows you how to perform TLZ04 head cleaning. The heads
are the components in a drive that magnetically read and write data to and
from the media (in this case, a cassette tape).
NOTE: Digital Equipment Corporation recommends that you perform the
head cleaning procedure about every 2 weeks, or after every 25 hours of
drive usage.
Under normal conditions, it should not be necessary to exceed this cleaning
schedule. If a particular cassette causes problems, try changing to another
cassette.
CAUTION: Never attempt to clean the heads in a manner other than
described herein. Doing so will void the product warranty.
To clean the heads, use the head cleaning cassette as follows:
1. Observe that the drive indicator is lit solid green.
2. Insert the head cleaning cassette (part number TLZ04–HA) into the
drive as shown in Figure 3–9.
3. With the head cleaning cassette inserted, the drive automatically
cleans the head. The drive ejects the head cleaning cassette after
approximately 30 seconds.
4. In the space provided on the card enclosed with the head cleaning
cassette, place a check mark every time you use the head cleaning
cassette.
Under normal conditions, the head cleaning cassette performs for
approximately 25 cleanings. Additional cassettes are available from
your Digital sales representative or DECdirect.
If the head cleaning cassette has been used more times than it was
designed to be used, the drive will eject the cartridge in approximately
8 to 10 seconds. No cleaning action will occur.
CAUTION: Do not exceed the recommended 25 uses of the cleaning
cassette. After 25 uses, the cleaning cassette no longer cleans the heads.
You must use a new cassette.

3–18 DECsystem 5500 Operation

Cassette Cleaner

Digital
Head
Cleaner

Figure 3–9: Inserting the Head Cleaning Cassette

This fig. was rotated with QA trilb

MLO-005332

3.1.3 RF/RZ-Series Integrated Storage Elements
Your system may have up to four RF/RZ-series ISEs, or up to three RF/RZseries ISEs and a tape drive. When your system has multiple ISEs, Digital
recommends that you separate them according to function. For example, if
your system has two ISEs, you may want to use them as follows:
•

ISE 0 contains the operating system and applications installed on the
system.

Operating the System Options

3–19

•

ISE 1 contains work areas for each user with an account on the system.

The storage capacities and other specifications for RF-series ISEs are listed
in DECsystem 5500 Technical Information.
NOTE: If your system has less than the maximum number of ISEs: three
if you have a tape drive, or four without the tape drive, a blank ISE front
panel with no controls or indicators is used to cover the empty ISE cavities.
The front panels are required to meet international regulatory standards.
RF-Series Controls and Indicators
Each RF-series ISE has controls and indicators on its front panel. To access
the ISE controls you need only open the upper door (top key position).
Figure 3–10 shows the front panel of an RF-series ISE.
Figure 3–10: RF-Series ISE Controls and Indicators

Run/Ready Button
Write-Protect Button

Bus Node
ID Plug

Fault Indicator
MLO-004044

Each ISE has the following controls and indicators on its front panel.
•

Bus node ID plug

3–20 DECsystem 5500 Operation

•

Fault indicator

•

Write-Protect button

•

Run/Ready button

Bus node ID plugs identify the bus node number of the ISEs to the system,
as well as the unit number by default. Bus node numbers are configured
at the factory in consecutive order from right to left: the right-most ISE as
0, the center ISE as 1, and the left-most ISE as 2. (Tapeless systems can
have up to four ISEs, with the left-most ISE as 3.)
Table 3–5 lists RF-series controls and indicators.

Table 3–5: RF-Series Controls and Indicators
Control

Position

Function

Bus Node ID Plug

Installed

The bus node ID plug identifies the bus node
ID number of the ISE to the system and is,
by default, the unit number. The ISE bus
node ID is factory set to a number 0 through
6.

Not installed

The ISE bus node number is undefined. The
ISE Fault indicator lights.

Lit

Indicates an error condition in the ISE.
The light is on temporarily during powerup sequence (normal condition).

Not lit

Indicates an error-free condition in the ISE.

In (lit, green)

ISE is on line. When the ISE is available
for use, the green indicator light in the
switch is on. Under normal operation the
green indicator flashes as seek operations
are performed.

Out (not lit)

ISE is off line and cannot be accessed. The
green indicator light cannot be lit when the
Run/Ready button is out.

In (lit, amber)

ISE is write-protected. Prevents system
software from writing to the ISE.

Out (not lit)

ISE is not write-protected. Normal position
for software operation. System software is
free to read from or write to the ISE.

Fault

Run/Ready

Write-Protect

The Write-Protect button controls whether the system can write data to
the ISE. The system can read from the ISE regardless of the setting of the

Operating the System Options

3–21

Write-Protect button. When the Write-Protect button is out (not lit), the
system can write to the ISE. Your system disk (the ISE containing system
software) and ISEs containing work areas for users should be write-enabled,
the normal operating setting.
If you want to write-protect an ISE containing sensitive data that you do
not want changed or accidentally erased, set the Write-Protect button to in
(lit).
RZ-Series Front Panel
Each RZ-series ISE has a front panel that contains a bus node ID plug. To
access the front panel you need only open the upper door (top key position).
Figure 3–11 shows the front panel of an RZ-series ISE.
Figure 3–11: RZ-Series ISE Front Panel

Bus Node
ID Plug
MLO-005185

Changing the Bus Node ID Plugs
Spare bus node ID plugs are supplied with your system. The DSSI plugs
for RF-series ISEs are dark gray. The part number for these plugs is 12–
28766–19. The SCSI plugs for RZ-series ISEs are a lighter gray. The part

3–22 DECsystem 5500 Operation

number for these plugs is 12–28766–28. Use the spare plugs to renumber
your ISEs if you reconfigure your system with an expander.
The bus node ID plugs have prongs on the back that indicate the bus node
number (and by default, the unit number) of the ISE. To remove a bus node
ID plug, grasp it firmly and pull straight out. To insert a bus node ID plug,
align the two center prongs with the two center slots and press the plug
into the slots. See Figure 3–12.
Figure 3–12: Inserting Bus Node ID Plugs

Bus Node
ID Plug

MLO-004045

Use the rules below for renumbering your storage elements:
•

For each DSSI or SCSI bus, do not duplicate bus node numbers for
your storage elements. You can only have one storage element on Bus
0 identified as bus node 1, one storage element as 2, and so on; you can
only have one storage element on Bus 1 identified as bus node 1, one
storage element as 2, and so on.

•

By convention, the ISEs are numbered in increasing order from right
to left.

Operating the System Options

3–23

NOTE: If you change the bus node ID plugs while the system is operating,
you must turn off the system and then turn it back on for the new plug
positions to take effect.

3.1.4 RV20 Optical Disk Subsystem
If your system includes an RV20 Optical Disk Subsystem, refer to the RV20
Optical Disk Subsystem Owner’s Manual for instructions on how to operate
the device.

3.1.5 RRD40 Digital Disk Subsystem
If your system includes an RRD40 Digital Disk Subsystem, refer to its user
guide for instructions on how to operate the device.

3.1.6 TS05 Tape Drive
If your system includes a TS05 tape drive, refer to the TS05 Tape Transport
System User’s Guide for instructions on how to operate the device.
NOTE: The TS05 is a data interchange device and is not supported as a
backup device.

3.1.7 TU81–Plus Tape Drive
If your system includes a TU81–Plus tape drive, refer to the TU81–Plus
Tape Subsystem User’s Guide for instructions on how to operate the device.

3.2 Communications Controller Options
The following types of communications controllers are available for the
DECsystem 5500 systems:
•

Asynchronous serial controllers (with or without modem support)

•

Synchronous serial controllers (with or without modem support)

•

Network controllers

3.2.1 Asynchronous Serial Controllers
The following asynchronous controllers are available for your DECsystem
5500 system, with and without modem support:
•

CXA16 — 16-line multiplexer, Q-bus controller

•

CXB16 — 16-line multiplexer

3–24 DECsystem 5500 Operation

•

CXY08 — 8-line multiplexer with modem control, Q-bus controller

3.2.1.1 Without Modem Support
Before using any peripheral device connected to a serial communications
controller, check the following:
•

Make sure the peripheral device is properly connected to the system.

•

Make sure the peripheral device is properly installed, plugged into an
appropriate power source, and turned on.

•

Make sure the peripheral device is properly set up. Set-up involves
choosing how the device operates. Some set-up choices are matters of
personal choice, for example, the number of columns that display on
a terminal screen. Others, like baud rate (a measure of the speed at
which data is transmitted over a data line), must match the system
setting if the peripheral device and system are to communicate. Refer
to your terminal or printer manual for complete set-up instructions.
Generally, the default settings for your terminal are acceptable.
While most default settings are acceptable, you should perform the setup procedure for your terminal to ensure appropriate set-up values.
The two examples below provide set-up instructions for VT300-series
and VT200-series terminals:
For VT300-Series Terminals:
1. Press Set-Up to display the Set-Up Directory screen.
2. Use the arrow keys to select the ‘‘Communications Set-Up’’ option
and press Enter .
3. Make sure the ‘‘Transmit Speed’’ option in the ‘‘Current Setting’’
column is set to 9600. Use the left and right arrow keys to change
the setting.
4. Make sure the ‘‘Receive Speed’’ option in the ‘‘Current Setting’’
column is set to ‘‘receive=transmit.’’ Use the down arrow to move
the cursor to this option, and the left and right arrows to change
the setting.
5. Press Select to return to the Set-Up Directory screen.
6. Use the arrow keys to select the ‘‘Global Set-Up’’ option and press
Enter .
7. Select the option ‘‘Comm Port.’’
8. If the port in the ‘‘Current Setting’’ column is selected for ‘‘RS–232,’’
press Enter to select the ‘‘DEC–423’’ port.

Operating the System Options

3–25

9. Press Select to return to the Set-Up Directory screen.
10. Use the arrow keys to select the ‘‘Save Current Settings’’ option.
Press Enter to save all current settings; then press Set-Up to exit the
Set-Up Directory.
For VT200-Series Terminals:
1. Press Set-Up to display the Set-Up Directory screen.
2. Use the arrow keys to select the ‘‘Default’’ option and press Enter .
Default correctly sets all values except transmit speed.
3. Use the arrow keys to select the ‘‘Comm’’ option and press Enter to
display the Communications Set-Up menu.
4. Use the arrow keys to select the ‘‘Transmit’’ option and press Enter
to set the speed to 9600.
5. Use the arrow keys to select the ‘‘To Directory’’ option and press
Enter .
6. Use the arrow keys to select the ‘‘Save’’ option and press Enter ; this
option stores the set-up values. Then press Set-Up to exit the Set-Up
Directory.
Your operating system may have other requirements for using serial
communications devices. Refer to your system software manual.
3.2.1.2 With Modem Support
Using serial devices with modem support requires that you install two
modems: one connected to the system and one connected to the remote
terminal. Both must be connected to phone lines.
Before using modems with your system, check the following:
1. Make sure each modem is connected to the system.
2. Make sure the modem is properly installed and connected to a phone
jack.
3. Set controls on the modem according to instructions in the modem user’s
guide.
Before using the modem connected to the remote terminal, check the
following:
1. Make sure the modem is properly installed and connected to a phone
jack.

3–26 DECsystem 5500 Operation

2. Set controls on the modem according to instructions in the modem user’s
guide.
3. Check the settings on the terminal attached to the modem. Depending
on the type of modem and the type of lines used, the baud rate may
be 300, 1200, or 2400. Other settings should be the same as those
described in the previous section.
Before using a phone line with modem support, you must set certain
parameters such as line speed. See your system software manuals for
details.

3.2.2 Synchronous Controllers
The DSV11 dual-line synchronous controller is available for your
DECsystem 5500 system:
Before using a synchronous controller you must verify the following:
•

The system you want to communicate with has an appropriate
synchronous controller.
Synchronous communications require a
synchronous controller on both the transmitting and receiving system.

•

Both the transmitting and receiving systems must have supporting host
software installed. Synchronous communications operate under specific
protocols that define how data is interpreted. Two common protocols
are X.25 and PSI. Appropriate host software is required to interpret
the protocol.

3.2.3 Network Controllers
NOTE: DECsystem 5500 systems contain an Ethernet controller embedded
in the CPU module. You can have a second optional Ethernet controller, the
DESQA module, included with your system.
Before using a network controller you must do the following:
1. Make sure the Ethernet cable (either standard transceiver cable or
ThinWire cable) is connected to the console module (or optional DESQA
module). The light next to the connector should be lit, indicating an
active connection. If not lit, move the Ethernet Connector switch to the
proper position.
2. Make sure the Ethernet cable is properly connected to the network. A
transceiver cable can be connected in one of the following ways:
•

To an H4000 or H4005 transceiver located on a traditional Ethernet

Operating the System Options

3–27

•

To a local network interconnect (DELNI), which can be connected
to a larger Ethernet or can serve to connect up to eight systems in
a local area network

A ThinWire cable can be connected as follows:
•

To a ThinWire Ethernet multiport repeater (DEMPR) or ThinWire
single port repeater (DESPR), which can be connected to a larger
Ethernet or can serve to connect many systems in a local area
network

•

To an available connection on a T-connector of other ThinWire nodes

3. Have the DECnet application installed on your system.
4. Register your node with the network manager so that your node is
recognized by other systems in the network.
Some software products use the Ethernet hardware address of other
systems to operate properly.
The hardware address of your on-board Ethernet device is displayed after
the self-tests complete at each power-up. If you have an additional DESQA
Ethernet adapter, use the show ether command at the Maintenance mode
console prompt to display the hardware address. As in the following
example, the DESQA module is indicated by XQA0:
>> maint
>>>show ether
Ethernet Adapter
-mop() -EZA0 (08-00-2B-12-81-22)
Ethernet Adapter 0 (774440)
-XQA0 (08-00-2B-06-16-F2)
>>>exit
>>

Refer to your software manuals and network manuals for other
requirements and further instructions on using a network connection.

3.3 Printer Options
Before using a printer, make sure it is properly set up and passes any selftests. Verify that the printer is connected to an appropriate controller.
Some printers, such as the LG01 and LG02, require the LPV11–SA
interface. Other printers require modem control signals. Consult your
printer documentation for the interface requirements.

3–28 DECsystem 5500 Operation

DECsystem 5500 systems have several printer options available. Consult
the DECsystem 5500 Technical Information manual for a list of printers
and printer interface requirements.

3.4 Adding Options
If you have available Q-bus slots, you may be able to add modules to your
system. Possible limitations to adding modules include the following:
•

Power limitations

•

Physical space limitations

•

Bus limitations (ac/dc loading)

Your Digital sales representative can advise you about modules available for
your system and what you need to order. A Digital service representative
should perform the installation, since the system must be properly
configured to work correctly.
CAUTION: Do not attempt to remove, rearrange, or install modules. Contact
your Digital service representative for assistance.

Operating the System Options

3–29

Appendix A