Digital PDFs

EK-366AA-OG-002

April 1990

221 pages

Original

3.8MB

Document:	DECstation 5000 Model 200 Hardware Operators Guide
Order Number:	EK-366AA-OG
Revision:	002
Pages:	221
Original Filename:

OCR Text

EK-366AA-OG-002

DECstation 5000
Model 200
Hardware Operator’s Guide

digital equipment corporation
maynard, massachusetts

First printing, April 1990
Second printing, October 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 described in this document is furnished under a license and may be
used or copied only in accordance with the terms of such license.
Digital Equipment Corporation assumes no responsibility for the use or reliability
of its software on equipment that is not supplied by Digital or its affiliated
companies.

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

The following are trademarks of Digital Equipment Corporation:

DEC
DECnet
DECstation
DECsystem
DECUS
MicroVAX
MicroVMS

PDP
ThinWire
TURBOchannel
ULTRIX
ULTRIX-32
UNIBUS
VAX

VAXBI
VAXcluster
VAXstation
VMS
VT

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

xiii

Part I Basic Workstation Hardware
1 Getting Started
Workstation Site Requirements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Temperature . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Humidity . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Cleanliness . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Interference . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Power . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Supplies . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Workstation Voltage Requirements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
The Parts of a Basic DECstation 5000 Model 200
Workstation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

1–2
1–2
1–2
1–2
1–3
1–3
1–3
1–4
1–4

2 System Unit, Monitor, Keyboard, and Mouse or Tablet
The System Unit . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Connectors, Controls, and Indicator Lights on the
System Unit . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Inside the System Unit . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
The Monitor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Connectors, Controls, and Indicator Lights on the
Monitors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Connecting the Monitor to the System Unit . . . . . . . . . . .

2–2
2–2
2–4
2–7
2–7
2–13

iii

The Keyboard . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Adjusting the Keyboard . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
The Mouse and Tablet . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Cleaning the Mouse . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Connecting the Keyboard and Mouse or Tablet to the
System Unit . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Connect the Cable Assembly to the System Unit . . . . . . .
Position the Connector Block Next to the Monitor . . . . . .
Connect the Keyboard to the Connector Block . . . . . . . . .
Connect the Mouse or Tablet to the Connector Block . . .
Supplying Power to the System Unit and Monitor . . . . . . . .
Connect the Monitor-to-System-Unit Power Cable or the
Monitor Power Cord . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Connect the System Unit Power Cord . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

2–19
2–20
2–22
2–23
2–24
2–25
2–26
2–27
2–28
2–29
2–30
2–32

3 Ethernet Hardware for the Basic Workstation
Terminating ThinWire Ethernet . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Connecting ThickWire Ethernet Loopback Connectors . . . . .

3–2
3–4

Part II Optional Hardware
4 Internal Hardware Options
Removing and Replacing the System Unit Cover . . . . . . . . . .
Installing and Removing Memory Modules . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Adding and Removing Option Modules . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Installing and Removing Option Modules . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Testing a new option module . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

4–2
4–5
4–12
4–15
4–21

5 External Storage Options: Hard Disk, Floppy Disk,
Tape, and Optical Compact Disc Drives
Installing External Storage Devices . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Set Up Your Expansion Boxes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Set the SCSI Switches for Each Device . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Connect Expansion Boxes to the System Unit . . . . . . . . .
Turn On Expansion Boxes and Check Configuration
Displays . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Installing a Device in a BA42 Storage Expansion Box . . . . .
Using External Storage Devices . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

5–4
5–4
5–6
5–9
5–15
5–17
5–17

6 Optional Network Connections: ThinWire and
ThickWire Ethernet
Finding Your Ethernet Station Address . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Connecting the Workstation to an Ethernet Network . . . . . .
Connecting to a ThinWire Network . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
For a workstation at the end of a ThinWire cable
segment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
For a workstation within a ThinWire cable
segment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Connecting to ThickWire Networks . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

6–3
6–4
6–4
6–5
6–7
6–9

7 External Communication Options: Printers, Plotters,
Modems, and Console Terminals
Installing a Device That Has a 25-Pin Connector . . . . . . . . .
Installing a Device That Has a Telephone-Jack Type of
Connector . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

7–3
7–6

Part III Testing Hardware
8 Starting and Testing Workstation Hardware
Turning On Your Workstation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Testing Your Workstation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Run the System Self-Test . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Checking Your Configuration Displays . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Turning Off Your Workstation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

8–2
8–9
8–9
8–10
8–13

9 Troubleshooting
Using Self-Tests . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
The Power-Up Self-Test . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
The System Self-Test . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Reading Self-Test Results . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Interpreting Error Messages Displayed on the
Screen . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Interpreting Diagnostic Indicator Lights on the
System Unit . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Solving Basic Hardware Problems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Contacting Your Digital Service Representative . . . . . . . . . . .

9–2
9–3
9–3
9–4
9–4
9–15
9–17
9–25

10 Using the Console Program
Console and Operating Modes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Using Console Mode . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Console prompts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Using Operating Mode . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Operating system prompts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Entering Console and Operating Modes . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Console mode . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Operating mode . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Rules for Typing Console Commands . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Conventions Used in This Chapter . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Console Command Formats and Functions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Console Command Description . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
? Command . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
boot Command . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
cat Command . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
cnfg Command . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
d Command . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
e Command . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
erl Command . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
go Command . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
init Command . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
ls Command . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
passwd Command . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
printenv Command . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
restart Command . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
script Command . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
setenv Command . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
sh Command . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
t Command . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
unsetenv Command . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Environment Variables . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Console Autoconfiguration . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

10–2
10–2
10–2
10–3
10–3
10–3
10–3
10–3
10–4
10–5
10–6
10–8
10–8
10–8
10–9
10–10
10–11
10–12
10–13
10–13
10–13
10–14
10–14
10–15
10–15
10–15
10–15
10–16
10–17
10–17
10–18
10–20

11 Moving the DECstation 5000 Model 200 Workstation
Dismantling Your Workstation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Packing Your Equipment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Reinstalling Your DECstation 5000 Model 200 . . . . . . . . . . . .

11–2
11–3
11–3

Part IV Appendixes
A Equipment Specifications
B Part Numbers
C Connector Pin Assignments
Index
Figures
1-1
1-2
2-1
2-2
2-3
2-4
2-5
2-6
2-7
2-8
2-9
2-10
2-11
2-12
2-13
2-14
2-15
2-16
2-17
2-18
2-19
2-20

Voltage labels . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
The parts of the basic DECstation 5000 Model 200
workstation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
The back of the system unit . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Icons on the system unit . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Removing the cover from the system unit . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
The inside of the system unit . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Icons on the monitors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
The 19-inch VR262 gray-scale monitor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
The 16-inch VR297 color monitor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
The 19-inch VR299 color monitor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
The 19-inch VRT19 color monitor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Video cable assemblies . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
On/off switches on the monitors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Connecting a video cable to the system unit . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Connecting a video cable assembly to a color monitor . . . . . . .
Connecting a video cable assembly to a VR262 19-inch
gray-scale monitor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
The keyboard . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Routing the keyboard cable . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Adjusting keyboard tilt . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
A mouse and a tablet with its puck and stylus . . . . . . . . . . . .
Removing the tracking ball from the mouse . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Connecting the keyboard-mouse cable . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

1–4
1–5
2–2
2–4
2–5
2–6
2–7
2–8
2–9
2–10
2–11
2–13
2–14
2–15
2–17
2–18
2–19
2–20
2–21
2–22
2–23
2–25
vii

2-21
2-22
2-23
2-24
2-25
2-26
2-27
3-1
3-2
3-3
4-1
4-2
4-3
4-4
4-5
4-6
4-7
4-8
4-9
4-10
4-11
4-12
4-13
5-1
5-2
5-3
5-4
5-5
5-6
5-7
5-8
5-9
5-10
6-1

viii

Positioning the connector block . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Connecting the keyboard to the connector block . . . . . . . . . . .
Connecting the mouse or tablet to the connector block . . . . . .
A monitor-to-system-unit power cable and a monitor or
system unit power cord . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Connecting the monitor-to-system-unit power cable to the
system unit . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Connecting a power cord to a monitor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Connecting the power cord to the system unit . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Attaching terminators to a T-connector . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Terminating ThinWire Ethernet . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Attaching a ThickWire loopback connector . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Removing the cover from the system unit . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Using an antistatic wrist strap . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
A memory module . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Memory inside the system unit . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Releasing the memory module bracket . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Installing a memory module . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Releasing the memory module bracket . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Removing a memory module . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
An option module . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Option slots inside the system unit . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Installing an option module in option slot 2 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Installing a low 3D graphics accelerator option module . . . . .
Installing a high 3D graphics accelerator option module . . . .
Some expansion boxes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
A SCSI connector and option slots . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Expansion box cables and an expansion box, power cord and
terminator . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Removing the SCSI-switch cover from the BA42 storage
expansion box . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Expansion box SCSI switches . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Attaching a system-unit-to-expansion-box cable to a SCSI
connector on the system unit . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Attaching a system-unit-to-expansion-box cable to a SCSI
connector on an expansion box . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Connecting expansion boxes to other expansion boxes . . . . . .
Terminating the final expansion box . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Connecting power cords . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
ThinWire and ThickWire connectors on the system unit . . . .

2–26
2–27
2–28
2–29
2–30
2–31
2–32
3–2
3–3
3–5
4–3
4–4
4–5
4–6
4–7
4–8
4–10
4–11
4–13
4–14
4–18
4–19
4–20
5–2
5–3
5–5
5–6
5–8
5–9
5–11
5–12
5–13
5–14
6–2

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

Sample Ethernet station addresses . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Removing a terminator from the T-connector . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Connecting a ThinWire cable to the T-connector . . . . . . . . . . .
Removing the terminators from the T-connector . . . . . . . . . . .
Connecting ThinWire cables to a T-connector . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
A ThickWire Ethernet cable . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Removing a loopback connector from a ThickWire
connector . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Connecting a ThickWire Ethernet cable to the system unit . .
Communication device connectors and an adapter . . . . . . . . . .
Connecting a communication device directly to the system
unit . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
A communications connector adapter . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Using an adapter to connect a communication device to the
system unit . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Expansion box on/off switches . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Brightness and contrast icons . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Turning on the system unit . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Sample workstation configuration display . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Sample slot configuration display . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
The reset button on the system unit . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Diagnostic indicator lights . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

6–3
6–5
6–6
6–7
6–8
6–9
6–10
6–11
7–2
7–4
7–6
7–7
8–2
8–3
8–6
8–10
8–12
9–2
9–15

Tables
1
2-1
2-2
5-1
5-2
9-1
9-2
9-3
9-4
9-5
9-6
9-7

Conventions Used in This Guide . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Connectors, Controls, and Indicator Lights on the System
Unit . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Controls, Connectors, and Indicator Lights on the
Monitors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
SCSI Cable Lengths . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
SCSI ID Switch Settings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Error Messages on the Monitor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Test Error Codes for Color Frame Buffer Modules . . . . . . . . . .
Test Error Codes for the 2D Graphics Accelerator Module . . .
Test Error Codes for 3D Graphics Accelerator Modules . . . . .
Test Error Codes for SCSI Modules . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Test Error Codes for Ethernet Controller Modules . . . . . . . . .
Test Error Codes for Base System Modules . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

xiv
2–3
2–12
5–5
5–7
9–5
9–10
9–10
9–11
9–11
9–12
9–12

9-8
9-9
10-1
10-2
10-3
A-1
A-2
A-3
A-4
A-5
A-6
A-7
A-8
A-9
A-10
A-11
A-12
A-13
A-14
A-15
A-16
A-17
A-18
A-19
A-20
A-21
A-22
A-23
A-24
A-25
A-26
A-27
A-28
A-29
A-30
A-31
A-32
A-33

Interpreting Diagnostic Indicator Lights on the System
Unit . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Solutions to Basic Hardware Problems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Console Command Functions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Console Commands for Environment Variables . . . . . . . . . . . .
Environment Variables Set by the User . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
System Unit Description . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
System Unit Specifications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
System Unit Operating Conditions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
System Unit Nonoperating Conditions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
VR262 Monitor Description . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
VR262 Monitor Specifications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
VR262 Monitor Operating Conditions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
VR262 Monitor Nonoperating Conditions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
VR297 Monitor Description . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
VR297 Monitor Specifications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
VR297 Monitor Operating Conditions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
VR297 Monitor Nonoperating Conditions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
VR299 Monitor Description . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
VR299 Monitor Specifications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
VR299 Monitor Operating Conditions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
VR299 Monitor Nonoperating Conditions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
VRT19 Monitor Description . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
VRT19 Monitor Specifications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
VRT19 Monitor Operating Conditions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
VRT19 Monitor Nonoperating Conditions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
LK201 Keyboard Description . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
LK201 Keyboard Specifications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
LK201 Keyboard Operating Conditions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
LK201 Keyboard Nonoperating Conditions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
VSXXX-AA Mouse Description . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
VSXXX-AA Mouse Specifications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
VSXXX-AA Mouse Operating Conditions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
VSXXX-AA Mouse Nonoperating Conditions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
VSXXX-AB Tablet Description . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
VSXXX-AB Tablet Specifications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
VSXXX-AB Tablet Operating Conditions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
VSXXX-AB Tablet Nonoperating Conditions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
RZ55 SCSI Hard Disk Drive Description . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

9–16
9–17
10–7
10–18
10–19
A–2
A–2
A–2
A–2
A–3
A–3
A–4
A–4
A–5
A–5
A–6
A–6
A–7
A–7
A–8
A–9
A–10
A–10
A–11
A–11
A–12
A–12
A–12
A–13
A–14
A–14
A–14
A–15
A–16
A–16
A–17
A–17
A–18

A-34
A-35
A-36
A-37
A-38
A-39
A-40
A-41
A-42
A-43
A-44
A-45
A-46
A-47
A-48
A-49
A-50
A-51
A-52
A-53
A-54
A-55
A-56
B-1
B-2
B-3
B-4
C-1
C-2
C-3
C-4
C-5
C-6
C-7
C-8

RZ55 SCSI Hard Disk Drive Specifications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
RZ55 SCSI Hard Disk Drive Operating Conditions . . . . . . . . .
RZ55 SCSI Hard Disk Drive Nonoperating Conditions . . . . . .
RZ56 SCSI Hard Disk Drive Description . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
RZ56 SCSI Hard Disk Drive Specifications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
RZ56 SCSI Hard Disk Drive Operating Conditions . . . . . . . . .
RZ56 SCSI Hard Disk Drive Nonoperating Conditions . . . . . .
RZ57 SCSI Hard Disk Drive Description . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
RZ57 SCSI Hard Disk Drive Specifications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
RZ57 SCSI Hard Disk Drive Operating Conditions . . . . . . . . .
RZ57 SCSI Hard Disk Drive Nonoperating Conditions . . . . . .
TK50Z Tape Drive Description . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
TK50Z Tape Drive Specifications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
TK50Z Tape Drive Operating Conditions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
TK50Z Tape Drive Nonoperating Conditions . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
TLZ04 Tape Drive Description . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
TLZ04 Tape Drive Specifications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
TLZ04 Tape Drive Operating Conditions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
TLZ04 Tape Drive Nonoperating Conditions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
RRD40 Compact Disc Drive Description (Tabletop) . . . . . . . . .
RRD40 Compact Disc Drive Specifications (Tabletop) . . . . . . .
RRD40 Compact Disc Drive Operating Conditions
(Tabletop) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
RRD40 Compact Disc Drive Nonoperating Conditions
(Tabletop) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Basic Components . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Cords, Cables, and Connectors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Software Documentation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Hardware Documentation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
SCSI Cable Connector Pin Assignments . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Keyboard and Mouse or Tablet Connector Pin
Assignments . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Communications Connectors Pin Assignments . . . . . . . . . . . . .
ThickWire Ethernet Connector Pin Assignments . . . . . . . . . . .
Summary of Loopback Connectors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Power Supply Pin Assignments . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Modem Loopback Connector Pin Assignments . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Ethernet Loopback Connector Pin Assignments . . . . . . . . . . . .

A–18
A–19
A–19
A–20
A–20
A–21
A–21
A–22
A–22
A–23
A–23
A–24
A–24
A–24
A–25
A–26
A–26
A–26
A–26
A–27
A–27
A–27
A–27
B–2
B–3
B–4
B–5
C–2
C–3
C–4
C–5
C–5
C–6
C–6
C–6

Using This Guide
Use this guide to learn to operate and troubleshoot your
DECstation 5000 Model 200 hardware.
This guide tells you
How to use the connectors and controls and interpret the
indicator lights on your workstation hardware
How to adjust your workstation hardware for your comfort
What options you can add to improve workstation
performance
How to use console commands
How to interpret the results of the power-up self-test and
the system self-test
How to read the configuration displays
How to diagnose and solve basic hardware problems
How to dismantle your workstation in preparation for
moving
What the specifications are for your workstation
components
What the part numbers are for the components of your
workstation
What the pin assignments are for your workstation cables
and connectors

xiii

Table 1. Conventions Used in This Guide

xiv

Convention

Use

Monospace type

Anything that appears on your monitor is
set in monospace in the text and looks like
this.

Boldface type

Anything you are asked to type is set in boldface
in the text and looks like this.
Important: Type console commands exactly as they
appear in the text. The workstation does not recognize
uppercase and lowercase letters as the same input.

Part I
Basic Workstation Hardware

1
Getting Started
This chapter tells you
What site requirements must be met so your hardware can
operate efficiently and safely
How to check the voltage requirements of the devices that
make up your workstation
What parts make up the basic DECstation 5000 Model 200
workstation

Getting Started 1–1

Workstation Site Requirements
For your DECstation 5000 Model 200 workstation to function
efficiently, your work environment must meet the requirements
listed here.
Caution: Failure to meet these requirements can damage equipment.

Temperature
Keep the temperature around the workstation between 50
and 104 degrees Fahrenheit (10 and 40 degrees Celsius).
– Set up your workstation away from heaters,
photocopiers, and other sources of heat.
– Protect your workstation from sunlight.
Allow air to flow freely around your workstation to keep
heat from building up and damaging your equipment.
– Leave 4 inches (10 cm) of space between system unit
vents and other objects.
– Leave 3 inches (8 cm) of space between monitor vents
and other objects.
Humidity
Keep relative humidity within the range of 10 to 80 percent.
Cleanliness
Keep your work area as dust-free as possible.

1–2 Getting Started

Interference
Set up your workstation at least 30 inches (90 cm) away
from other terminals or monitors and from other sources
of electrical interference, such as printers or electric pencil
sharpeners.
Limit exposure to static electricity and magnetized objects
by setting up your workstation away from busy corridors
and other high-traffic areas and away from filing cabinets
and steel beams in walls.
Power
Provide a 15-ampere branch circuit for the exclusive use of
your workstation.
Be sure your electrical circuit is properly grounded and free
from electrical noise.
Be sure the voltage for workstation devices matches that of
your power source.
Supplies
Store supplies, such as tape cartridges, within the same
temperature and humidity limits as those for your
workstation.

Getting Started 1–3

Workstation Voltage Requirements
The voltage for many devices, including most monitors, must
match that of your power source. Your power source is either
110/120 or 220/240 volts. Where necessary, a yellow voltage
label that covers the power connector on your device tells you
the voltage requirements for that device.
Caution: Connecting a device to a power source that does not meet

the voltage requirements of that device can damage the device.

V 100-120

V 220-240

36-17905-19

V 100-120

V 220-240

36-17905-19

WSE2I021

Figure 1-1. Voltage labels

The Parts of a Basic DECstation 5000 Model 200 Workstation
In addition to the documentation you are reading, you should
have all the items that appear in Figure 1-2, plus your software
and any options you have ordered. Options are discussed in
Part II of this guide.
For a detailed list of items available for your workstation, see
Appendix B of this guide.

1–4 Getting Started

Color video cable assembly

System unit, power cord, and
monitor-to-system-unit power cable

Gray scale video cable assembly

Keyboard-mouse cable assembly

Monitor and monitor power cord

Antistatic wrist strap
Keyboard with cable

Serial cable for console terminal

Communications connector adapter

or other communication device

Mouse with cable

One ThinWire T-connector

Screwdrivers

and two ThinWire terminators
WSE2I001

Figure 1-2. The parts of the basic DECstation 5000 Model 200
workstation

Getting Started 1–5

2
System Unit, Monitor, Keyboard, and
Mouse or Tablet
This chapter tells you
What connectors, controls, and indicator lights are present
on the system unit and monitor and what their functions
are
How to remove and replace the system unit cover
What you see when you look inside the system unit
How to connect the monitor, keyboard, and mouse or tablet
to the system unit
When to use the monitor power cord instead of the monitorto-system-unit power cable
How to connect the system unit power cord and the
monitor-to-system-unit power cable or the monitor power
cord

System Unit, Monitor, Keyboard, and Mouse or Tablet 2–1

The System Unit
The system unit is designed to sit flat on a level surface with
the monitor placed on top of or next to it.
Caution: Standing the system unit on its side blocks vents and can

damage the unit.

Connectors, Controls, and Indicator Lights on the System Unit
The back of the system unit contains the connectors, controls,
and indicator lights pictured in Figure 2-1 and described in
Table 2-1. Icons that appear on the system unit are pictured in
Figure 2-2.
4

1
0

PMAG

-C

V~100-120
A 3.0
V~220-240
A 1.7

1
2

V~100-120
A 7.9/4

.2
Hz 50-60
W 359

/220-240

14
13
12
11

10
9
7

1. Option slot 0 with a

8. Keyboard-mouse connector

video connector in place

9. Communications connector (baud 2)

2. Option slot 1

10. Communications connector (baud 3)

3. Option slot 2

11. Reset button

4. Cover-release screw

12. Diagnostic indicator lights

5. Monitor-to-system-unit power connector

13. ThinWire Ethernet connector

6. On/off switch

14. Small computer system interface

7. System unit power connector

(SCSI) connector
WSE2O002

Figure 2-1. The back of the system unit

2–2 System Unit, Monitor, Keyboard, and Mouse or Tablet

Table 2-1. Connectors, Controls, and Indicator Lights on the System Unit
Item

Function

Option slots 0, 1, and 2

Points at which video, SCSI, and network
options can connect to option modules in
the system unit. In Figure 2-1, option slot
0 contains a video connector, the point at
which a video cable connects the monitor to
the system unit.
A captive screw that allows the cover to be
removed from the system unit.
The point at which power can pass from the
system unit to the monitor.
Turns the system unit on and off. Pressing
the 1 turns the system unit on. Pressing
the 0 turns it off.
The point at which power from the power
source reaches the system unit.
The point at which the keyboard-mouse
cable connects the keyboard and mouse or
tablet to the system unit.
The points at which communication devices,
such as modems and printers, can connect
to the system unit.
Resets the system hardware.
When there is no display on the monitor,
these lights indicate where system failures
have occurred.
The point at which ThinWire Ethernet
connects to the system unit.
The point at which up to seven external
SCSI storage devices can connect to the
system unit.

Cover-release screw
Monitor-to-system-unit power
connector
On/off switch
System unit power connector
Keyboard-mouse connector
Communications connectors
Reset button
Diagnostic indicator lights
ThinWire Ethernet connector
SCSI connector

System Unit, Monitor, Keyboard, and Mouse or Tablet 2–3

Ethernet

Communications

Keyboard

Reset button

Mouse

SCSI
WSE2O003

Figure 2-2. Icons on the system unit

Inside the System Unit
You can remove the cover from the system unit to gain access to
the memory and option module slots inside the unit.
Caution: Whenever you touch anything inside the system unit, be sure
to use the antistatic wrist strap provided by Digital. See Chapter 4 of
this guide for instructions on its use.

To remove the cover from the system unit
1.
2.

Turn off the system unit by pressing the 0 on the on/off
switch on the back of the unit.
Facing the front of the system unit, turn the cover-release
screw on the back of the unit to your right until you feel
it release. (Note that you can only loosen this screw; you
cannot remove it from the back of the system unit.)
Grasp each side of the cover with your hands and pull the
cover straight toward you until it is free from the unit.

2–4 System Unit, Monitor, Keyboard, and Mouse or Tablet

d i g

i t a
l

PMAG

-C

PMAZ

-A

V~100-120
A 3.0
V~220-240
A 1.7

1
2

PMAD

-A
V~100-120
A 7.9/4

.2
Hz 50-60
W 359

/220-240

Cover-release screw

WSE2O027

Figure 2-3. Removing the cover from the system unit

System Unit, Monitor, Keyboard, and Mouse or Tablet 2–5

When the cover is off the system unit, you can see the power
supply and any memory and option modules inside the unit.
An option module
Power supply

Memory modules

WSE2O028

Figure 2-4. The inside of the system unit

To replace the cover on the system unit
1.

2.
3.

Facing the front of the system unit, grasp each side of the
cover with your hands and position it so it rests on top of
the unit about 3 inches short of the back panel of the unit.
Move the cover straight toward the back panel of the
system unit until it slips into place on the unit.
Press the cover-release screw on the back of the unit toward
you and turn it to your left until it locks in place.

2–6 System Unit, Monitor, Keyboard, and Mouse or Tablet

The Monitor
Your DECstation 5000 Model 200 workstation came with one of
the following monitors:
19-inch VR262 gray-scale monitor
16-inch VR297 color monitor
19-inch VR299 color monitor
19-inch VRT19 color monitor
You can tell which monitor you have by looking at the name on
the identification plate on the back of the monitor.
Connectors, Controls, and Indicator Lights on the Monitors
Connectors, controls, and indicator lights are located in
different places on different monitors. Look at the illustration
of your monitor to see where to find them.
Figure 2-5 shows the icons that appear on the monitors.
Figures 2-6 through 2-9 show the monitors. Table 2-2 describes
the connectors, controls, and indicator lights on the monitors.

Contrast

Brightness

Degauss

WSE2O004

Figure 2-5. Icons on the monitors

System Unit, Monitor, Keyboard, and Mouse or Tablet 2–7

Brightness control

Power indicator light
Contrast control

Video cable
connector

Video cable

On/off switch
Fuse panel

Power connector
DEPG006

Figure 2-6. The 19-inch VR262 gray-scale monitor

2–8 System Unit, Monitor, Keyboard, and Mouse or Tablet

Vertical static
convergence
(V-STAT) control

Horizontal static
convergence
(H-STAT) control

Vertical centering
(V-CENT) control
Contrast control

On/off switch

Power indicator light

RGB signal
cable connectors

Fuse
R

Power connector

WSE2O006

Figure 2-7. The 16-inch VR297 color monitor

System Unit, Monitor, Keyboard, and Mouse or Tablet 2–9

Degauss button

Contrast control

Brightness control

Power indicator light

On/off switch

Voltage
switch
R

G
B

Fuse

RGB signal cable
connectors

Power connector

WSE2O007

Figure 2-8. The 19-inch VR299 color monitor

2–10 System Unit, Monitor, Keyboard, and Mouse or Tablet

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

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

Power indicator light
Contrast control

Power connector

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

High-scan/low-scan switch

WSE2O045

Figure 2-9. The 19-inch VRT19 color monitor

System Unit, Monitor, Keyboard, and Mouse or Tablet 2–11

Table 2-2. Controls, Connectors, and Indicator Lights on the Monitors
Item1

Function

Power indicator light

Glows green when the monitor receives
power from a wall outlet or the system unit.
Allows you to adjust the intensity of the
display on the screen.
Allows you to adjust the brightness of the
background on the screen.
Adjusts the red and blue horizontal lines
in a color display so they converge with the
green horizontal line in the display.
Adjusts the red and blue vertical lines in
a color display so they converge with the
green vertical line in the display.
Adjusts the picture position upward or
downward on the screen.
Allow video signals to flow between the
monitor and the system unit.
Protects the monitor from electrical damage.
Lets you match the monitor’s voltage to the
voltage at your power source.
Allows power to flow from the system unit
or from a wall outlet or a power strip to the
monitor.
Turns the monitor on and off.
Lets you clear color distortion caused by
outside magnetic interference.
Not used with the DECstation 5000 Model
200 workstation.

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

1 Not every item appears on every monitor.

2–12 System Unit, Monitor, Keyboard, and Mouse or Tablet

Connecting the Monitor to the System Unit
Caution: Connecting or disconnecting your monitor while power is
turned on can damage the monitor.
1.

Locate the video cable assembly for your workstation.
If you have a color monitor, the video cable assembly
that came with your shipment has a set of red, green,
and blue (RGB) signal cables at one end and a 3-pin
connector at the other.
If you have a gray-scale monitor, a gray-scale video
cable assembly came with your monitor. It has a round
signal cable connector at one end and a 3-pin connector
at the other end.
Use this assembly instead of the one that came with
the basic workstation shipment.
3-pin connector

3-pin connector

Signal cable
connector

RGB connectors

For a color monitor

For a gray scale monitor
WSE2I004

Figure 2-10. Video cable assemblies

System Unit, Monitor, Keyboard, and Mouse or Tablet 2–13

Place the monitor on top of, or next to, the system unit.
Caution: Placing the monitor near an electromagnetic device,

such as a printer or an electric pencil sharpener, or near
magnetized objects, such as filing cabinets or steel beams in
walls, can interfere with monitor performance.
3.

Be sure the on/off switch on the front of the monitor is set
to the off position.
For a 19-inch VR262 gray-scale monitor, a 19-inch
VRT19 color monitor, or a 16-inch VR297 color monitor,
press the 0 on the on/off switch.
For a 19-inch VR299 color monitor, press and release
the on/off switch on the front of the monitor.

Press the 0 on

Press and release this

this type of switch.

type of switch.

WSE2I101

Figure 2-11. On/off switches on the monitors

2–14 System Unit, Monitor, Keyboard, and Mouse or Tablet

Connect the video cable assembly to the system unit.
a. Position the 3-pin connector so the Digital logo is on
top.
b. Firmly push the cable connector all the way into the
video option connector on the system unit.
c. Turn the screws on the connector to your right to lock
the connector securely in place.
Video option connector

Video cable
3-pin connector

PMAG

-C

Screws

PMAG

-C

V~100-120
A 3.0
V~220-240
A 1.7

1
2

V~100-120
A 7.9/4

.2
Hz 50-60
W 359

/220-240

WSE2I005

Figure 2-12. Connecting a video cable to the system unit

System Unit, Monitor, Keyboard, and Mouse or Tablet 2–15

Connect the video cable assembly to the monitor.
If you have a color monitor
The RGB signal cables on the free end of the video cable
assembly connect with the three round connectors on the
back of the monitor in the following order, from left to right:
red, green, blue.
a. Firmly push the cable connector on the red signal cable
onto the connector labeled R on the back of the monitor.

You may have to wiggle the cable connector back and
forth a little to get it to slip onto the monitor connector.
Twist the cable connector to your right until it slides
forward and locks into place.

Repeat this procedure for the green signal cable and then
for the blue.

2–16 System Unit, Monitor, Keyboard, and Mouse or Tablet

Monitor
video connectors
Signal cable
connectors

R
G
B

16-inch VR297 color monitor

R
G

19-inch VR299 color monitor
R

19-inch VRT19 color monitor
WSE2I007

Figure 2-13. Connecting a video cable assembly to a color monitor

System Unit, Monitor, Keyboard, and Mouse or Tablet 2–17

If you have a gray-scale monitor
The signal cable on the free end of the video cable assembly
connects with the round connector on the back of the
monitor.
a. Firmly push the connector on the signal cable onto the
round connector on the back of the monitor.

b.
c.

You may have to wiggle the cable connector back and
forth a little to get it to slip onto the monitor connector.
Twist the cable connector to your right until it slides
forward and locks into place.
Use the plastic screw that came with the gray-scale
video cable assembly to hold the connector block in
place on the monitor as shown in Figure 2-14.
Cable mounting detail

Connector block

Video cable connector

WSE2I084

Figure 2-14. Connecting a video cable assembly to a VR262 19-inch
gray-scale monitor

2–18 System Unit, Monitor, Keyboard, and Mouse or Tablet

The Keyboard
The main part of the keyboard resembles a typewriter
keyboard. In addition to the main keys, the keyboard has
some special function keys, a special editing keypad, and a
numeric/application keypad. The documentation that came
with your software explains how to use keys other than the
main keys.
Keyboard cable

Function keys
Indicator lights

Main keys

Special editing keypad
Numeric/application keypad

WSEG001

Figure 2-15. The keyboard

System Unit, Monitor, Keyboard, and Mouse or Tablet 2–19

Adjusting the Keyboard
You can adjust the keyboard so the cable comes out of the left
or right side and so the keyboard tilts or lies flat on its work
surface.
To reroute the keyboard cable
1.
2.
3.

Turn the keyboard upside down.
Remove the cable from the groove in which it rests.
Press the cable into the groove that runs out of the other
side of the keyboard.

WSE2O014

Figure 2-16. Routing the keyboard cable

2–20 System Unit, Monitor, Keyboard, and Mouse or Tablet

To adjust the tilt of the keyboard
1.
2.
3.

Turn the keyboard upside down.
Find the two plastic feet that came in your keyboard carton.
Press the plastic feet firmly into the holes in the corners of
the back of the keyboard.
Plastic foot

WSE2O015

Figure 2-17. Adjusting keyboard tilt

System Unit, Monitor, Keyboard, and Mouse or Tablet 2–21

The Mouse and Tablet
The mouse and the puck or stylus that accompanies the tablet
are hand-held pointing devices that let you easily position the
cursor on your screen.
The way you use the mouse or tablet depends on your software.
The documentation that came with your software explains how
to use your pointing device.

Mouse

Tablet

Stylus

Puck

Tablet with puck and stylus
WSE2I083

Figure 2-18. A mouse and a tablet with its puck and stylus

2–22 System Unit, Monitor, Keyboard, and Mouse or Tablet

Cleaning the Mouse
Clean the mouse when it fails to move the cursor smoothly on
the screen.
1.
2.

Turn the mouse upside down.
Release the round plate from the bottom of the mouse by
placing your fingers in the grooves on the plate and turning
the plate to your left.
Lift off the plate and remove the tracking ball from inside
the mouse.
Plate

Groove

Tracking ball

Mouse
(bottom view)

WSEG003

Figure 2-19. Removing the tracking ball from the mouse

System Unit, Monitor, Keyboard, and Mouse or Tablet 2–23

Wash the ball with lukewarm water and, if necessary, mild
soap.
Caution: Organic solvents, such as toluene or trichlorethane,

damage the rubber coating.
5.
6.
7.

Dry the ball with a soft, lint-free cloth.
Replace the ball and then the plate.
Turn the plate to your right to lock it into place.

Connecting the Keyboard and Mouse or Tablet to the
System Unit
The keyboard and mouse or tablet are connected to a keyboardmouse cable assembly that connects to the system unit.
The keyboard-mouse cable assembly that came with your
workstation has a 15-pin connector at one end and a connector
block that contains connectors for the keyboard and mouse or
tablet at the other end.
The 15-pin connector attaches to the back of the system unit.
The plastic flap on the connector block slides under one of the
feet on the back of the base of the monitor, where it holds the
block in place next to the monitor.

2–24 System Unit, Monitor, Keyboard, and Mouse or Tablet

Connect the Cable Assembly to the System Unit
1.
2.
3.

Position the cable connector so the Digital logo is on top.
Push the cable connector all the way onto the connector on
the system unit.
Turn the screws on the cable connector to your right to
tighten them.

PMAG

-C

100-120
A 3.0
~220-240
A 1.7

1
2

PMAD

-A

V~100-120
A 7.9/4

.2
Hz 50-60
W 359

/220-240

System unit
keyboard-mouse
connector

Connector block

Keyboard-mouse cable

Screws
Keyboard-mouse
cable connector

WSE2I009

Figure 2-20. Connecting the keyboard-mouse cable

System Unit, Monitor, Keyboard, and Mouse or Tablet 2–25

Position the Connector Block Next to the Monitor
1.
2.

Position the connector block so the keyboard and mouse
icons are on top.
Slide the flap on the connector block on the free end of the
cable under the back of your monitor until the block rests
against the monitor and the flap is lodged securely under
one of the feet on the monitor.

PMAG

-C

V~100-120
A 3.0
V~220-240
A 1.7

PMAD

-A

0/220-240

3
2

Flap

Connector
WSE2I010

Figure 2-21. Positioning the connector block

2–26 System Unit, Monitor, Keyboard, and Mouse or Tablet

block

Connect the Keyboard to the Connector Block
1.
2.

Position the keyboard cable connector so the clip is on the
bottom.
Push the cable connector into the connector below the
keyboard icon on the connector block. The cable connector
snaps into place.

PMAD-

Keyboard
icon

Keyboard cable

Keyboard
connector
Clip
Connector block
WSE2I011

Figure 2-22. Connecting the keyboard to the connector block

System Unit, Monitor, Keyboard, and Mouse or Tablet 2–27

Connect the Mouse or Tablet to the Connector Block
1.
2.

Carefully align the icon on the top of the mouse or tablet
cable connector with the mouse icon on the connector block.
Push the cable connector all the way into the connector on
the connector block.

PMAG

-C

V~100-120
A 3.0
V~220-240
A 1.7

AD-A

V~100-120
A 7.9/4

.2
Hz 50-60
W 359

/220-240

Mouse icon

Connector
block

Mouse or tablet cable

Mouse icon
WSE2I012

Figure 2-23. Connecting the mouse or tablet to the connector block

2–28 System Unit, Monitor, Keyboard, and Mouse or Tablet

Supplying Power to the System Unit and Monitor
The DECstation 5000 Model 200 workstation comes with two
identical power cords (one for the system unit and one for the
monitor) and a monitor-to-system-unit power cable.
The monitor-to-system-unit power cable allows your monitor to
receive its power through the system unit. Use it when your
monitor is on top of or next to the system unit.
Use the monitor power cord when your monitor is too far from
the system unit for the monitor-to-system-unit cable to reach
between them.

Monitor-to-system-unit power cable

System unit power cord

WSE2I064

Figure 2-24. A monitor-to-system-unit power cable and a monitor or
system unit power cord

System Unit, Monitor, Keyboard, and Mouse or Tablet 2–29

Connect the Monitor-to-System-Unit Power Cable or the
Monitor Power Cord
To use the monitor-to-system-unit power cable
Plug the pronged end of the cable into the power connector on
the back of the system unit as shown in Figure 2-25.
Then plug the prongless end of the cable into the power
connector on the back of the monitor as shown in Figure 2-26.

Monitor power
connector

PMAG

-C

V~100-120
A 3.0
V~220-240
A 1.7

PMAD

-A

V~100-120

A 7.9/4

3
2

Monitor-to-system-unit
power connector

Monitor-to-system-unit
power cable

WSE2I014

Figure 2-25. Connecting the monitor-to-system-unit power cable to the
system unit

2–30 System Unit, Monitor, Keyboard, and Mouse or Tablet

To use the monitor power cord
Plug the prongless end of the power cord into the power
connector on the monitor.
Then plug the pronged end of the cord into the power source.

Monitor power connector

To power
source
WSE2I015

Figure 2-26. Connecting a power cord to a monitor

System Unit, Monitor, Keyboard, and Mouse or Tablet 2–31

Connect the System Unit Power Cord
Plug the prongless end of the power cord into the power
connector on the back of the system unit.
Then plug the pronged end of the cord into the power source.

PMAG

-C

V~100-120
A 3.0
V~220-240
A 1.7

2
V~100-120
A 7.9/4

.2
Hz 50-6
W 359

3
2

Power cord

System unit

connector

power connector

WSE2I016

Figure 2-27. Connecting the power cord to the system unit

2–32 System Unit, Monitor, Keyboard, and Mouse or Tablet

3
Ethernet Hardware for the Basic
Workstation
This chapter tells you
How to terminate ThinWire Ethernet on the system unit
How to connect a ThickWire loopback connector to a
ThickWire option module in the system unit
Where to find out how to connect to ThinWire and
ThickWire Ethernet networks

Ethernet Hardware for the Basic Workstation 3–1

Terminating ThinWire Ethernet
The basic DECstation 5000 Model 200 workstation comes with
a ThinWire Ethernet connector already in place in base slot 6 in
the system unit. A ThinWire T-connector and two T-connector
terminators came with your shipment.
Ethernet connections are optional. If you want to use your
workstation without connecting it to a ThinWire Ethernet
network, simply terminate the ThinWire connector on the
system unit.
If you want to connect your workstation to a ThinWire
network, see the discussion of ThinWire network connections in
Chapter 6 of this guide.
To terminate ThinWire Ethernet
1.
2.

Find the T-connector and the two T-connector terminators
that came with your shipment.
Attach the terminators to the T-connector.
a. Firmly push each terminator onto the T-connector.
b. Twist the terminator on your left toward you and the
terminator on your right away from you until they slide
toward the T-connector and lock into place.
Terminator

Terminator

T-connector

Figure 3-1. Attaching terminators to a T-connector

3–2 Ethernet Hardware for the Basic Workstation

WSE2I024

4.
5.

Push the ribbed portion of the terminated T-connector onto
the ThinWire Ethernet connector, which is located above
the Ethernet icon on the back of the system unit.
Twist the ribbed portion of the T-connector from side to side
until you can push it onto the system unit connector.
Twist the ribbed portion of the T-connector to your right
until it locks into place on the system unit connector.

System unit
ThinWire connector

Ethernet icon

Terminated
T-connector

PMAG

-C

V~100-120
A 3.0
V~220-240
A 1.7

PMAZ

-A

PMAD

-A

V~100-120
A 7.9/4

.2
Hz 50-60
W 359

/220-240

WSE2I025

Figure 3-2. Terminating ThinWire Ethernet

Ethernet Hardware for the Basic Workstation 3–3

Connecting ThickWire Ethernet Loopback Connectors
ThickWire Ethernet connectors can be in one or more of the
option slots on the back of the system unit. Figure 3-3 shows a
ThickWire Ethernet connector in option slot 2.
If you have a ThickWire option module installed in your system
unit and you want to use your workstation without connecting
it to a ThickWire Ethernet network, connect a ThickWire
loopback connector to the ThickWire connector on the system
unit.
If you want to connect your workstation to a ThickWire
network, see the discussion of ThickWire network connections
in Chapter 6 of this guide.
To install ThickWire Ethernet loopback connectors
1.

2.
3.

For each ThickWire connector on the system unit, find the
square ThickWire Ethernet loopback connector that came
with your shipment.
Position the loopback connector so the Digital logo is on top.
Firmly press the loopback connector onto the ThickWire
connector.

3–4 Ethernet Hardware for the Basic Workstation

System unit
ThickWire connector

ThickWire
loopback
connector

PMAG

-C

V~100-120
A 3.0
V~220-240
A 1.7

PMAZ

-A

PMAD

-A

V~100-120
A 7.9/4

.2
Hz 50-60
W 359

/220-240

WSE2I026

Figure 3-3. Attaching a ThickWire loopback connector

Ethernet Hardware for the Basic Workstation 3–5

Part II
Optional Hardware

4
Internal Hardware Options
This chapter tells you
How to remove and replace the cover of the system unit
How to use the antistatic wrist strap that came with your
workstation
How to install memory modules inside and remove them
from the system unit
How to install option modules inside and remove them from
the system unit

Internal Hardware Options 4–1

Removing and Replacing the System Unit Cover
Memory modules and video, SCSI, and ThickWire Ethernet
option modules are installed inside the system unit. Before
opening the system unit to install a module, be sure to have at
hand the antistatic wrist strap that came in the accessories kit
with your workstation.
To remove the cover from the system unit
1.
2.
3.

If necessary, follow the instructions that came with your
worksystem software to shut down the software.
Turn off the system unit by pressing the 0 on the on/off
switch on the back of the unit.
Facing the front of the system unit, turn the cover-release
screw on the back of the unit to your right until you feel
it release. (Note that you can only loosen this screw; you
cannot remove it from the back of the system unit.)
Grasp each side of the cover with your hands and move the
cover straight toward you until it pulls free from the unit
as shown in Figure 4-1.

4–2 Internal Hardware Options

d i g

i t a
l

PMAG

-C

PMAZ

-A

V~100-120
A 3.0
V~220-240
A 1.7

1
2

PMAD

-A
V~100-120
A 7.9/4

.2
Hz 50-60
W 359

/220-240

Cover-release screw

WSE2O027

Figure 4-1. Removing the cover from the system unit

Internal Hardware Options 4–3

Before you touch anything inside the system unit or remove any
static-sensitive item, such as an option or a memory module,
from an antistatic bag, place the antistatic wrist strap around
your wrist and attach the other end of the strap to the metal
frame that encloses the system unit.
Antistatic
wrist strap

Metal
frame

WSE2I082

Figure 4-2. Using an antistatic wrist strap

To replace the cover on the system unit
1.

2.
3.

Facing the front of the system unit, place your hands on
each side of the cover and position the cover so it rests on
top of the unit about 3 inches short of the back panel of the
unit.
Move the cover straight toward the back of the unit until it
slips into place on the unit.
Press the cover-release screw on the back of the unit toward
you and turn it to your left until it locks into place.

4–4 Internal Hardware Options

Installing and Removing Memory Modules
Each workstation comes with at least one 8-megabyte memory
module. You can add from one to fourteen 8-megabyte memory
modules to your system unit, up to a total of fifteen modules, or
120 megabytes of memory.
You can add one memory module to each vacant memory slot in
the system unit (see Figure 4-4).

Front view

Back view
WSE2O029

Figure 4-3. A memory module

Internal Hardware Options 4–5

Memory module

Vacant memory slots

WSE2O030

Figure 4-4. Memory inside the system unit

To install memory modules
1.
2.
3.
4.

4–6 Internal Hardware Options

5.
6.

Locate the metal bracket that locks the memory modules in
place.
Loosen the two screws on the bracket until the bracket can
be pulled away from the system unit.

Screws
Metal bracket

Memory module

0
1
2
3
4
5
6

Antistatic wrist strap
WSE2O040

Figure 4-5. Releasing the memory module bracket

Internal Hardware Options 4–7

8.
9.

Look at the slot numbers printed beside the memory
module slots inside the system unit. Find the empty slot
with the lowest number.
Align the connector on the module with the lowestnumbered vacant connector in the system unit.
Push the memory module connector all the way into the
memory connector on the system unit.

Memory module

Lowest-numbered
vacant connector

0
1
2
3
4
5
6
7

Antistatic wrist strap
WSE2O033

Figure 4-6. Installing a memory module

4–8 Internal Hardware Options

Replace the metal bracket and the two screws that hold it
in place.
11. Remove the antistatic wrist strap from your wrist and from
the system unit.
12. Replace the cover on the system unit.
13. First turn on the monitor, then the system unit.
10.

When the system unit completes the power-up self-test
successfully, the console prompt appears on the screen.
14. Type t 7/mem followed by a space and the number of the
memory slot into which you have just installed the memory
module.
For a memory module in slot 2, type t 7/mem 2, and so on.
A display similar to the following slowly appears on your
screen as the test progresses:
**\

When the test has completed successfully, the console
prompt (>>) appears at the end of this display.
If something other than the console prompt appears, turn
to Chapter 9 of this guide for troubleshooting instructions.
To remove memory modules
1.
2.
3.

Internal Hardware Options 4–9

5.
6.

Place the loop on the antistatic wrist strap around your
wrist and clip the other end to the metal frame that
encloses the system unit.
Locate the metal bracket that locks the memory modules in
place.
Loosen the two screws on the bracket until the bracket can
be pulled away from the system unit.

Screws
Metal bracket

Memory module

0
1
2
3
4
5
6

Antistatic wrist strap
WSE2O040

Figure 4-7. Releasing the memory module bracket

4–10 Internal Hardware Options

Locate the memory module in the highest-numbered slot
and pull that module straight up until it is free of its
connector, as shown in Figure 4-8.

To remove more than one memory module, remove the
second module from the next highest-numbered slot, the
third from the third highest, and so on.
8. Replace the metal bracket and tighten the screws.
9. Remove the antistatic wrist strap and replace the cover on
the system unit.
10. Turn on the system unit by pressing the 1 on the on/off
switch on the back of the unit.
Memory module

0
1
2
3
4
5
6
7

1
2
3
4
5
6

Antistatic wrist strap
WSE2O042

Figure 4-8. Removing a memory module

Internal Hardware Options 4–11

Adding and Removing Option Modules
Option modules available for the DECstation 5000 Model 200
workstation include the following:
Video option modules
Video option modules provide two- and three-dimensional
gray-scale and color video display on a monitor.
Connecting the monitor to the video connector on the
system unit is discussed in Chapter 2.
SCSI modules
SCSI modules link the system unit to the workstation’s
hard disk, tape, and optical compact disc drives.
Connecting SCSI devices to SCSI connectors on the system
unit is discussed in Chapter 5.
ThickWire Ethernet modules
Each ThickWire Ethernet module provides a ThickWire
Ethernet connection. Up to three ThickWire modules can
be installed in the system unit.
Connecting Ethernet networks to Ethernet connectors on
the system unit is discussed in Chapter 6.
Figure 4-9 shows an option module and its connectors.
Figure 4-10 shows the option slots inside the system unit.

4–12 Internal Hardware Options

Video cable connector

Front view

Back view
Option slot connector
WSE2M027

Figure 4-9. An option module

Internal Hardware Options 4–13

Option slot 2

Option slot 1
Option slot 0

WSE2I079

Figure 4-10. Option slots inside the system unit

4–14 Internal Hardware Options

Installing and Removing Option Modules
All option modules are installed and removed in the same
manner.
Install a color frame buffer module in option slots 0, 1, or 2.
A color frame buffer module provides two-dimensional color
and gray-scale video displays on a monitor.
It can be used with ULTRIX worksystem software version
4.0 and higher and with any monitor available for use with
the DECstation 5000 Model 200 workstation.
You can have only one color frame buffer module inside
the system unit. Never install another graphics module
in a system that already has a color frame buffer module
without first removing the color frame buffer.
Install a 2D graphics accelerator module in option slots 0 or
1.
Caution: Replacing the system unit cover when a 2D graphics
accelerator module is in option slot 2 will damage the module.

A 2D graphics accelerator module rapidly generates 256color, two-dimensional color graphics on a monitor.
To use a 2D graphics accelerator, you must have a 19-inch
VRT19 color monitor and ULTRIX worksystem software
that is version 4.1 or higher.
You can have only one 2D graphics accelerator module
inside the system unit. Do not install another graphics
module in a system that has a 2D graphics accelerator
module without first removing the 2D graphics accelerator.
Install a low or mid 3D graphics accelerator module in
option slots 0 and 1, with the option cable connector in
option slot 0.
A low 3D graphics accelerator module provides 8-plane
three-dimensional color graphics on a monitor.
A mid 3D graphics accelerator module provides 24-plane
three-dimensional color graphics on a monitor.

Internal Hardware Options 4–15

To use a low or mid 3D graphics accelerator, you must have
a 19-inch VRT19 color monitor and ULTRIX worksystem
software that is version 4.1 or higher.
You can have only one low or mid 3D graphics accelerator
inside the system unit. Do not install a second graphics
module in a system that has a 3D graphics accelerator
module without first removing the 3D graphics accelerator.
Install a high 3D graphics accelerator module in all three
option slots, with the cable connector in option slot 0.
A high 3D graphics accelerator module rapidly generates
24-plane three-dimensional color graphics on a monitor.
To use a high 3D graphics accelerator, you must have a
19-inch VRT19 color monitor and ULTRIX worksystem
software that is version 4.1 or higher.
You can have one high 3D graphics accelerator module
inside the system unit.
To install an option module
1.
2.
3.
4.

If necessary, follow the instructions that came with your
worksystem software to shut down the software.
Turn off the system unit by pressing the 0 on the on/off
switch on the back of the unit.
Remove the cover from the system unit.
Place the loop on the antistatic wrist strap around your
wrist and clip the other end to the metal frame that
encloses the system unit.
If the back of the system unit has a metal cover over the
opening for the option slot you want to use, remove the two
screws that hold the cover in place and then remove the
cover.
Save the cover. You will need to replace it if you ever
remove the option module from the system unit without
reinstalling it or replacing it immediately.

4–16 Internal Hardware Options

7.
8.
9.
10.

11.

12.
13.

Position the option module so it is parallel to the bottom of
the system unit, with its system unit slot connector facing
down and its option cable connector facing the option-slot
opening in the back of the system unit, as shown in
Figures 4-11 through 4-13.
Move the option module cable connector through the option
slot opening in the back of the system unit.
Firmly push the system unit slot connector onto the support
posts and down into the option slot connector.
Find the support post screws that came with your option
module.
Insert one screw into each support post hole on the option
module. Turn each screw to your right until the module is
firmly in place.
Use the two screws that held the metal cover over the
option slot to hold the new option cable connector in place
against the back of the system unit.
Remove the antistatic wrist strap from your wrist and from
the system unit.
Replace the cover on the system unit and turn on the
system unit and monitor.

Internal Hardware Options 4–17

Antistatic wrist strap
WSE2I134

Figure 4-11. Installing an option module in option slot 2

4–18 Internal Hardware Options

Antistatic wrist strap

WSE2I115

Figure 4-12. Installing a low 3D graphics accelerator option module

Internal Hardware Options 4–19

Antistatic wrist strap

WSE2I117

Figure 4-13. Installing a high 3D graphics accelerator option module

4–20 Internal Hardware Options

Testing a new option module

To be sure your new option module has been installed correctly
and is working properly, type cnfg at the console prompt (>>)
and press Return. A display similar to the following appears on
the screen:
>>cnfg
7: KN02-AA
6: PMAD-AA
5: PMAZ-AA
2: PMAD-AA
1: PMAG-DA
>>

DEC
DEC
DEC
DEC
DEC

T5.2a
T5.2a
T5.2a
X5.1f
T5.2a

TCF0
TCF0
TCF0
TCF0
TCF0

( 24 MB)
(enet: 08-00-2b-0f-45-72)
(SCSI = 7)
(enet: 08-00-2b-0f-45-31)
(DA:PXG -- D=8, z=24)

The number that begins each line in the configuration display
represents the number of a base slot or an option slot that
contains a module.
Look for lines that begin with 0:, 1:, and 2:. These lines
represent the option slots on the system unit. In the sample
display, all three option slots contain option modules. If an
option slot is empty, it does not appear on the configuration
display.
The information inside the parentheses at the end of each slot
display line shows what kind of module is present in that slot.
CX shows that the module is a color frame buffer.

A color frame buffer module can be installed in any of the
three option slots.
There is no color frame buffer in the sample display.
PX shows that the module is a 2D graphics accelerator
module.
A 2D graphics accelerator module can be installed in option
slot 0 or 1.
DA:PXG shows that the module is a low 3D graphics
accelerator. In the sample display, a low 3D graphics
accelerator is in option slots 0 and 1. When a low 3D
graphics accelerator module is in the system, option slot 0
does not appear in the display.

Internal Hardware Options 4–21

EA:PXG shows that the module is a mid 3D graphics
accelerator. When a mid 3D graphics accelerator module is
in the system, option slot 0 does not appear in the display.
PXG_T shows that the module is a high 3D graphics
accelerator. When a high 3D graphics accelerator module
is in the system, neither option slot 0 nor option slot 2
appears in the display.
SCSI shows that you have a SCSI option module.

A SCSI module is always present in base slot 5.
In addition, a SCSI option module can be installed in any of
the three option slots.
enet: shows that you have an Ethernet module.
ThinWire Ethernet is always present in base slot 6.
In addition, a ThickWire Ethernet module can be installed
in any of the three option slots on the system unit.
In the sample display, a ThickWire Ethernet option module
is present in option slot 0.
If the module you have just installed does not show up on the
configuration display, turn to Chapter 9 for troubleshooting
procedures.
To remove an option module
1.
2.
3.
4.

If necessary, follow the instructions that came with your
worksystem software to shut down the software.
Turn off the system unit by pressing the 0 on the on/off
switch on the back of the unit.
Remove the cover from the system unit.
Place the loop on the antistatic wrist strap around your
wrist and clip the other end to the metal frame that
encloses the system unit.
Unscrew the two screws that hold the option module in
place against the back of the system unit and the two
screws that hold the module on its support posts.

4–22 Internal Hardware Options

Gently pull the option module straight up off of the support
posts and out of its connector on the system module on the
bottom of the system unit.
Pull the module away from the back of the system unit
until the option slot connector is free of the option slot.

If the module will not be replaced inside the system unit,
reattach the metal cover over the empty slot on the back of the
system unit, and reattach the support post screws.

Internal Hardware Options 4–23

5
External Storage Options: Hard Disk,
Floppy Disk, Tape, and Optical Compact
Disc Drives
This chapter tells you what SCSI storage devices are available
for your workstation and how to install them.
External storage devices currently available for your
workstation include the following:
332-megabyte RZ55 hard disk drive
665-megabyte RZ56 hard disk drive
1-gigabyte RZ57 hard disk drive
95-megabyte TK50Z tape drive
1-gigabyte TLZ04 digital audio tape drive
635-megabyte RRD40 optical compact disc drive
95-megabyte half-height TZ30 tape drive
1.44-megabyte RX23 floppy disk drive
1.2 half-height RX33 floppy disk drive

External Storage Options: Hard Disk, Floppy Disk, Tape, and Optical Compact Disc Drives 5–1

Tape drives and floppy disk drives come preinstalled in singledevice expansion boxes or BA42 storage expansion boxes, or
they can be installed in empty slots in BA42 storage expansion
boxes you already have.
Hard disk drives come preinstalled in BA42 storage expansion
boxes or can be installed in empty slots in BA42 storage
expansion boxes you already have.
Optical compact disc drives come preinstalled in single-device
expansion boxes.
The DECstation 5000 Model 200 workstation can have up to 21
external storage devices.
RRD40 optical
compact disc drive

d i g it al

expansion box
d i g it a

TLZ04 tape drive
expansion box

TK50Z tape drive
expansion box

BA42 storage
expansion box

WSE2O017

Figure 5-1. Some expansion boxes

5–2 External Storage Options: Hard Disk, Floppy Disk, Tape, and Optical Compact Disc Drives

The basic workstation comes with one SCSI connector located
in base slot 5 on the lower-left corner of the back of the system
unit as you face the back of the unit.
Other SCSI connectors can be installed in option slots 0, 1,
and 2.
Option slot 2

Option slot 1

Option slot 0

PMAG

-C

V~100-120
A 3.0
V~220-240
A 1.7

1
2
PMAD

-A

V~100-120
A 7.9/4

.2
Hz 50-60
W 359

/220-240

SCSI connector
in base slot 5
WSE2I037

Figure 5-2. A SCSI connector and option slots

External Storage Options: Hard Disk, Floppy Disk, Tape, and Optical Compact Disc Drives 5–3

Installing External Storage Devices
The first expansion box connects directly to the SCSI connector
on the system unit. Each additional box for that connector
connects to the box connected before it.
When you count the number of devices connected to the SCSI
connector, remember that the BA42 storage expansion box can
contain two devices.
Unless you have only one SCSI connector and seven devices,
don’t fully load a connector. For example, if you have eight
devices and two connectors, attach four devices to each
connector.
Set Up Your Expansion Boxes
1.
2.

Place the expansion boxes for each SCSI connector as near
as possible to where you will use them.
For each expansion box, locate the cables and terminators
listed here. Be sure to use the cables that came with the
system unit rather than the cables that came with your
expansion boxes. The cables you should use are pictured in
Figure 5-3.
One system-unit-to-expansion-box cable that has a
different connector at each end.
One expansion box terminator.
One power cord for each expansion box you are using.
One 18-inch box-to-box expansion cable with identical
connectors at each end for every expansion box except
the last box at the SCSI connector.

5–4 External Storage Options: Hard Disk, Floppy Disk, Tape, and Optical Compact Disc Drives

Caution: Using more than 19 feet 8 inches (236 inches) of cable,

including cable inside expansion boxes, to connect storage devices
to a given SCSI connector on the system unit can make those
devices unreliable.
System unit-to-expansion-box cable

Expansion box terminator

18-inch box-to-box expansion cable

Expansion box power cord

WSE2I040

Figure 5-3. Expansion box cables and an expansion box, power cord
and terminator
Table 5-1. SCSI Cable Lengths
Cable

Length

BA42 storage expansion box internal cable
TK50Z tape drive internal cable
RRD40 optical compact disc drive internal cable
TLZ04 tape drive internal cable
50-pin to 50-pin box-to-box external cable
68-pin to 50-pin system-unit-to-expansion-box external
cable

30 inches
14 inches
6.5 inches
38 inches
18 inches
74 inches

External Storage Options: Hard Disk, Floppy Disk, Tape, and Optical Compact Disc Drives 5–5

Set the SCSI Switches for Each Device
Each expansion device connected to a SCSI connector must be
assigned a SCSI ID number for that connector. ID numbers
available for expansion devices are 0 through 6. These numbers
are assigned by setting switches provided on the expansion
boxes or, in the case of floppy disk and tape drives inside a
BA42 expansion box, on the drives themselves.
To set the switches on the BA42 storage expansion box, you
must first remove the plastic cover that protects the switches.
To do so, press up on the tab on the bottom of the cover until
you can pull the cover away from the box.

Press up on the tab
on the bottom of the
SCSI switch cover
until you can pull the
cover away from the box.

WSE2I063

Figure 5-4. Removing the SCSI-switch cover from the BA42 storage
expansion box

5–6 External Storage Options: Hard Disk, Floppy Disk, Tape, and Optical Compact Disc Drives

Use the switch settings listed in Table 5-2 to set the SCSI
switches on the backs of your expansion boxes.
When assigning numbers, assign ID 0 to the device closest to
the system unit, ID 1 to the device next to it, and so on. If you
have a BA42 storage expansion box that contains two hard disk
drives, consider the drive on the right side of the box as you
face the back of the box to be closer to the system unit than the
one on the left. If you have a BA42 expansion box that contains
a tape or an optical compact disc drive, see the BA42 Storage
Expansion Box Installation Guide for instructions on setting ID
switches on those drives.
If a BA42 storage expansion box contains only one hard disk
drive, use the set of switches on your right as you face the back
of the box.
Expansion box SCSI switches are illustrated in Figure 5-5.
Table 5-2. SCSI ID Switch Settings

ID Number

Hard Disk Drive
RRD40 Compact Disc Drive1
TZ30 Tape Drive2

TK50Z Tape Drive
TLZ04 Tape Drive3
RX23 Floppy Disk Drive
RX33 Floppy Disk Drive

7
6
5
4
3
2
1
0

Reserved
Up Up Down
Up Down Up
Up Down Down
Down Up Up
Down Up Down
Down Down Up
Down Down Down

Reserved
Down Down Up
Down Up Down
Down Up Up
Up Down Down
Up Down Up
Up Up Down
Up Up Up

1 Switch 4 on the RRD40 optical compact disc drive has no effect on the ID number.
2 Switch 1 (the left switch) on the TZ30 tape drive should always be in the up
position. ID switch settings listed here for this drive start with switch 2.
3 Switch 1 (the left switch) on the TLZ04 tape drive should always be in the up
position. ID switch settings listed here for this drive start with switch 2.

External Storage Options: Hard Disk, Floppy Disk, Tape, and Optical Compact Disc Drives 5–7

SCSI switches set for ID number 5 (Down Up Down).

TK50Z tape drive expansion box

SCSI switches 1, 2, and 3 set for ID number 4 (Up Down Down).
Note that the position of the fourth switch has no effect.

RRD40 optical compact disc drive expansion box

Hard disk drive SCSI switches set for ID numbers 1 (Down Down Up)
on the left and 0 (Down Down Down) on the right. For SCSI switch
settings for floppy disk and tape drives inside this box,
see the BA42 installation guide.

(2) RZ5
(1) RZ5

BA42 storage expansion box

SCSI switches set for ID number 5 (Down Up Down beginning
with the second switch). The first switch should always
be in the up position.

OPTIONS
P421

AC LINE

TLZ04 tape drive expansion box

WSE2I075

Figure 5-5. Expansion box SCSI switches

5–8 External Storage Options: Hard Disk, Floppy Disk, Tape, and Optical Compact Disc Drives

Connect Expansion Boxes to the System Unit
For each SCSI connector on the system unit, perform the
following steps:
1.
2.

If necessary, follow the instructions that came with your
worksystem software to shut down the software.
Turn off the system unit and any expansion boxes.
Press the 0 on the on/off switch on the BA42 storage
expansion box, TK50Z tape drive expansion box, and
RRD40 optical compact disc drive expansion box.
Press and release the on/off switch on the TLZ04 tape
drive to turn it on and off.
Position the small metal connector on the system-unit-toexpansion-box cable so the flat side of the connector is on
top, as shown in Figure 5-6.
Push the cable connector into the SCSI connector until it
clicks into place.
SCSI connector

gital

0
V~100-120
A 3.0
V~220-240
A 1.7

1
2

V~100

-120/2
20
A 7.9/4.
2
Hz 50-60
W 359

3
2

WSE2I061

Figure 5-6. Attaching a system-unit-to-expansion-box cable to a SCSI
connector on the system unit

External Storage Options: Hard Disk, Floppy Disk, Tape, and Optical Compact Disc Drives 5–9

Attach the free end of the system-unit-to-expansion-box
cable to one of the connectors on the back of the first
expansion box.
a. Press the two wire brackets on the expansion box
connector away from the connector.
b. Position the cable connector so the Digital logo is on
top.

c.
d.

If the box you are connecting is a TK50Z tape drive,
slide the cable connector up between the handle and
the back of the box.
Push the cable connector into the expansion box
connector as far as it will go.
Press the two wire brackets firmly against the sides of
the cable connector until they click into the grooves on
the connector, as shown in Figure 5-7.

5–10 External Storage Options: Hard Disk, Floppy Disk, Tape, and Optical Compact Disc Drives

RRD40 optical
compact disc drive

TK50Z tape drive

Wire brackets

Groove

P421

AC LINE

BA42 storage expansion box

TLZ04 tape drive
WSE2I046

Figure 5-7. Attaching a system-unit-to-expansion-box cable to a SCSI
connector on an expansion box

External Storage Options: Hard Disk, Floppy Disk, Tape, and Optical Compact Disc Drives 5–11

If you are attaching only one box, turn to step 9 on page 5-13.
To attach boxes after the first, follow the steps given here.
6.
7.

Plug one end of the 18-inch box-to-box expansion cable into
the free connector on the back of the first expansion box.
Plug the free end of the cable into one of the connectors on
the new box.
If the box you are connecting is a TK50Z tape drive, slide
the free end of the cable up between the box and its handle.
Repeat steps 6 and 7 for each additional box.

RRD40 optical
compact disc drive
expansion box

TLZ04 tape drive
OPTION

expansion box

PF421

AC LIN

TK50Z tape drive
expansion box

BA42 storage
expansion box

WSE2I049

Figure 5-8. Connecting expansion boxes to other expansion boxes

5–12 External Storage Options: Hard Disk, Floppy Disk, Tape, and Optical Compact Disc Drives

When you reach the final box, or if you have only one box,
attach the expansion box terminator to the empty connector
on the box.
Wire brackets

Expansion box
connector

Terminator

RRD40 optical
compact disc drive
expansion box

TLZ04 tape drive

OPTION

expansion box

PF421

AC LIN

TK50Z tape drive
expansion box

BA42 storage
expansion box

WSE2I051

Figure 5-9. Terminating the final expansion box

External Storage Options: Hard Disk, Floppy Disk, Tape, and Optical Compact Disc Drives 5–13

Plug the prongless end of a power cord into the power
connector on each expansion box.
11. Plug the pronged end of each cord into a power strip or a
wall outlet.

10.

Power cord

OPTION

AC LIN

WSE2I052

Figure 5-10. Connecting power cords

5–14 External Storage Options: Hard Disk, Floppy Disk, Tape, and Optical Compact Disc Drives

Turn On Expansion Boxes and Check Configuration Displays
1.

Turn on each expansion box and then the system unit by
pressing the 1 on the on/off switches on the system unit,
the BA42 storage expansion box, the TK50Z tape drive
expansion box, and the RRD40 optical compact disc drive
expansion box. Press and release the on/off switch on the
TLZ04 tape drive.
Type test at the console prompt and press Return.
As the system performs the power-up self-test, the subtest
IDs flicker in the lower-left corner of your screen.
When the system unit has completed the power-up self-test
successfully, a display similar to the following appears on
the screen.
KN02-AA
>>

V5.3d

Check your configuration displays to be sure your system
recognizes each device you have connected.
At the console prompt (>>), type cnfg, press the space bar,
and then type one of the numbers listed here. Then press
Return.
For the SCSI connector that comes with the basic
workstation configuration, type 5.
For a SCSI connector in option slot 0, type 0.
For a SCSI connector in option slot 1, type 1.
For a SCSI connector in option slot 2, type 2.

External Storage Options: Hard Disk, Floppy Disk, Tape, and Optical Compact Disc Drives 5–15

In the following sample display, the SCSI connector in base
slot 5 has an RZ55 hard disk drive assigned to unit 1, an
RRD40 compact disc drive assigned to unit 4, and a TK50Z
tape drive assigned to unit 6.
>>cnfg 5
5: PMAZ-AA DEC
T5.2e
TCF0 (SCSI = 7)
--------------------------------------------------DEV
PID
VID
REV
SCSI DEV
===== ================== ========== ====== ========
rz1
RZ55
(C) DEC
DEC
0700
DIR
rz4
RRD40
(C) DEC
DEC
0700
CD-ROM
tz6
SEQ
>>

If a device you installed fails to appear in the configuration
display,
Be sure that device has not been assigned an ID
number that is the same as that assigned to some
other device on the SCSI connector.
Be sure the device in question is connected to an active
power source.
Be sure all cables are securely connected and a
terminator has been installed in the empty connector
on the last box.
If the device still fails to appear in the display, contact your
system manager or your Digital service representative.

5–16 External Storage Options: Hard Disk, Floppy Disk, Tape, and Optical Compact Disc Drives

Installing a Device in a BA42 Storage Expansion Box
To install a hard disk drive, a tape drive, or a floppy disk
drive in a BA42 storage expansion box, see the BA42 Storage
Expansion Box Installation Guide that came with that box.

Using External Storage Devices
To use external storage devices, see the documentation that
came with those devices.

External Storage Options: Hard Disk, Floppy Disk, Tape, and Optical Compact Disc Drives 5–17

6
Optional Network Connections: ThinWire
and ThickWire Ethernet
This chapter tells you
How to find Ethernet station addresses for your workstation
How to prepare your workstation for connection to
ThinWire Ethernet
– At the end of the ThinWire cable segment
– Within a ThinWire cable segment
How to prepare your workstation for connection to
ThickWire Ethernet

Optional Network Connections: ThinWire and ThickWire Ethernet 6–1

The DECstation 5000 Model 200 workstation comes with
ThinWire Ethernet installed in base slot 6 of the system unit.
In addition, you can have ThickWire Ethernet option modules
in option slots 0, 1, and 2 of the system unit.

Option slot 0

Option slot 1

0
V~100-120
A 3.0
V~220-240
A 1.7

1
2

PMAD

-A

V~100-120
A 7.9/4

.2
Hz 50-60
W 359

/220-240

Terminated ThinWire

ThickWire

Ethernet T-connector

Ethernet connector

in base slot 6

in option slot 2
WSE2I022

Figure 6-1. ThinWire and ThickWire connectors on the system unit

6–2 Optional Network Connections: ThinWire and ThickWire Ethernet

Finding Your Ethernet Station Address
If you plan to use your workstation on a network or networks,
you need to learn the Ethernet station address for each
Ethernet connector on the system unit.
To learn the Ethernet station address for base slot 6 and any
option slots that contain Ethernet connectors, type cnfg at the
console prompt (>>) and press Return.
A display similar to the following appears on your screen.
>>CNFG
7: KN02-AA
6: PMAD-AA
5: PMAZ-AA
2: PMAD-AA
1: PMAZ-AA
0: PMAG-BA
>>

DEC
DEC
DEC
DEC
DEC
DEC

T5.2a
T5.2a
T5.2a
X5.1f
X5.1e
T5.2a

TCF0
TCF0
TCF0
TCF0
TCF0
TCF0

( 24 MB)
(enet: 08-00-2b-0f-45-72)
(SCSI = 7)
(enet: 08-00-2b-0f-45-31)
(SCSI = 7)
(CX -- d=8)

Figure 6-2. Sample Ethernet station addresses

In the sample display, lines that contain enet: in parenthesis
at the end of the line show Ethernet station addresses. The
number of the base or option slot containing that Ethernet
connector appears at the beginning of the line.
The display in Figure 6-2 shows two Ethernet station addresses:
The line that starts with 6: contains the first Ethernet
address: 08-00-2b-0f-45-72. The number 6 at the
beginning of this line shows that the Ethernet connector
with this address is in base slot 6, the location of the
ThinWire Ethernet connector.
The second Ethernet address appears on the line that starts
with 2:. The Ethernet connector with this address — 0800-2b-0f-45-31 — is in option slot 2. Ethernet modules in
option slots are always ThickWire modules.

Optional Network Connections: ThinWire and ThickWire Ethernet 6–3

Connecting the Workstation to an Ethernet Network
ThinWire Ethernet cable connections are discussed here. If
you want to terminate a ThinWire connector, turn to page 3-2
earlier in this guide.
If you want to connect to ThickWire Ethernet, turn to page 6-9.
If you have a ThickWire Ethernet option module inside your
system unit and don’t want to be connected to the network yet,
turn to page 3-4 earlier in this guide for instructions on using a
ThickWire loopback connector.
Connecting to a ThinWire Network
Find the ThinWire cabling in the networking kit that came with
your shipment.
For a workstation to be connected to the end of a ThinWire
cable segment, follow the instructions given here.
For a workstation to be connected within a ThinWire cable
segment, follow the instructions given on page 6-7.

6–4 Optional Network Connections: ThinWire and ThickWire Ethernet

For a workstation at the end of a ThinWire cable segment
1.
2.
3.

If necessary, follow the instructions that came with your
worksystem software to shut down the software.
Turn off the system unit by pressing the 0 on the on/off
switch on the back of the unit.
Remove one terminator from the ThinWire T-connector in
base slot 6 of the system unit.
Turn the terminator on your left away from you or the
terminator on your right toward you until you can pull the
terminator away from the T-connector.
T-connector

Terminator

Terminator
WSE2I030

Figure 6-3. Removing a terminator from the T-connector

Optional Network Connections: ThinWire and ThickWire Ethernet

6–5

Attach the connector on the ThinWire cable segment to the
free end of the T-connector.
Firmly push the cable connector onto the T-connector. Twist
the cable connector on your left away from you or the cable
connector on your right toward you until the connector
slides forward and locks into place.
Contact your system manager, who will complete network
installation for you. To complete the installation yourself,
follow the instructions in the networking guide for your
worksystem software.
T-connector

Terminator

Cable connector
WSE2I031

Figure 6-4. Connecting a ThinWire cable to the T-connector

6–6 Optional Network Connections: ThinWire and ThickWire Ethernet

For a workstation within a ThinWire cable segment
1.
2.
3.

If necessary, follow the instructions that came with your
worksystem software to shut down the software.
Turn off the system unit by pressing the 0 on the on/off
switch on the back of the unit.
Remove both terminators from the ThinWire T-connector
located in base slot 6 of the system unit.
Turn the terminator on your right toward you and the
terminator on your left away from you until you can pull
them away from the T-connector.
T-connector

Terminator

Terminator
WSE2I032

Figure 6-5. Removing the terminators from the T-connector

Optional Network Connections: ThinWire and ThickWire Ethernet

6–7

Attach the cable connectors to the T-connector.
Firmly push each cable connector into the T-connector.
Twist the cable connector on your right away from you
and the connector on your left toward you until each slides
forward and locks into place.
Contact your system manager, who will complete network
installation for you. To complete the installation yourself,
follow the instructions in the networking guide for your
worksystem software.
T-connector

Cable
connector

Cable connector
WSE2I033

Figure 6-6. Connecting ThinWire cables to a T-connector

6–8 Optional Network Connections: ThinWire and ThickWire Ethernet

Connecting to ThickWire Networks
For each ThickWire connector on your system unit, find the
ThickWire Ethernet cable in the networking kit that came with
your shipment.

WSE2I034

Figure 6-7. A ThickWire Ethernet cable
1.
2.

If necessary, follow the instructions that came with your
worksystem software to shut down the software.
Turn off the system unit by pressing the 0 on the on/off
switch on the back of the unit.

Optional Network Connections: ThinWire and ThickWire Ethernet

6–9

Pull each ThickWire loopback connector out of its connector
on the back of the system unit.

0
V~100-120
A 3.0
V~220-240
A 1.7

1
2

PMAD

-A

V~100-120
A 7.9/4

.2
Hz 50-60
W 359

/220-240

System unit
ThickWire
connector

Loopback
connector

PMAD

-A

WSE2I035

Figure 6-8. Removing a loopback connector from a ThickWire
connector

6–10 Optional Network Connections: ThinWire and ThickWire Ethernet

4.
5.
6.

Position the cable connector so the Digital logo is on top.
Push the cable connector all the way into the ThickWire
connector on the system unit as shown in Figure 6-9.
Contact your system manager, who will complete network
installation for you. To complete the installation yourself,
follow the instructions provided in the networking guide for
your worksystem software.

digit

PMAG

-C

V~100-120
A 3.0
V~220-240
A 1.7

1
2

PMAD

-A

V~100-120
A 7.9/4

/220

.2
Hz 50-60
W 359

System unit
ThickWire
connector
ThickWire
Ethernet cable

PMAD

-A

WSE2I036

Figure 6-9. Connecting a ThickWire Ethernet cable to the system unit

Optional Network Connections: ThinWire and ThickWire Ethernet 6–11

7
External Communication Options: Printers,
Plotters, Modems, and Console Terminals
This chapter tells you
How to connect a communication device directly to the
system unit
How to use a communications connector adapter
Where to find out how to use communication devices

External Communication Options: Printers, Plotters, Modems, and Console Terminals 7–1

Communication devices that can be used with your DECstation
5000 Model 200 workstation include printers, plotters, modems,
and console terminals.
Communication devices connect to the communications
connectors on the system unit by means of one of two types
of connectors:
A 25-pin connector that can be connected directly to either
of the communications connectors on the system unit
A telephone-jack type of connector that requires a
communications connector adapter before it can be
connected to the system unit

Communication device

Telephone-jack

Communications

cable connector

type of connector

connector adapter

WSE2I054

Figure 7-1. Communication device connectors and an adapter

To install a device that has a 25-pin connector, turn to page 7-3.
To install a device that has a telephone-jack type of connector
and requires a communications connector adapter, turn to
page 7-6.

7–2 External Communication Options: Printers, Plotters, Modems, and Console Terminals

Installing a Device That Has a 25-Pin Connector
1.

2.
3.

Follow the instructions that came with your device to
perform these tasks:
Be sure the device is turned off.
Set up the device and attach the cable and power cord
that came with it.
Set the proper baud rate and control settings.
If necessary, follow the instructions that came with your
worksystem software to shut down the software.
Turn off the system unit by pressing the 0 on the on/off
switch on the back of the unit or by turning off your power
strip if you are using one.
Connect the free end of the device cable to the system unit
as shown in Figure 7-2.
a. Align the widest part of the cable connector with the
widest part of one of the communications connectors on
the system unit.
b. Press the cable connector all the way into the connector
on the system unit and turn the screws to your right to
tighten them.

External Communication Options: Printers, Plotters, Modems, and Console Terminals 7–3

digit

PMAG

-C

V~100-120
A 3.0
V~220-240
A 1.7

1
2

PMAD

-A

V~100-120
A 7.9/4

/220

.2
Hz 50-60
W 359

System unit
communications
connector

Communication device
cable connector

WSE2I056

Figure 7-2. Connecting a communication device directly to the system
unit
5.
6.
7.

Plug the power cord into the power source.
Turn on the device according to the instructions that came
with it.
Turn on the system unit by pressing the 1 on the on/off
switch on the back of the unit or by turning on the power
strip.
Your system unit performs its power-up self-test and
displays the console prompt (>>) when all the subtests have
completed successfully.

7–4 External Communication Options: Printers, Plotters, Modems, and Console Terminals

At the console prompt (>>), type test and press Return.
This causes the workstation to run the system self-test.
As the system performs the subtests that make up this
test, the subtest IDs flicker in the lower-left corner of your
screen.
When all tests have been completed successfully, the
console prompt (>>) appears in the lower-left corner of your
screen.
If a subtest fails, turn to Chapter 9 of this guide for
troubleshooting instructions.

External Communication Options: Printers, Plotters, Modems, and Console Terminals 7–5

Installing a Device That Has a Telephone-Jack Type of
Connector
1.

2.
3.

Front

Back
WSE2I066

Figure 7-3. A communications connector adapter

7–6 External Communication Options: Printers, Plotters, Modems, and Console Terminals

5.
6.

7.
8.

Position the 25-pin connector on the adapter so the Digital
logo is on top as shown in Figure 7-4.
Press the adapter connector all the way into one of the
communications connectors on the system unit and turn the
screws to your right to tighten them.
Position the connector on the end of your device cable so
the clip is on your left.
Push the cable connector into the connector on the adapter
until the cable connector clicks into place.

digit

PMAG

-C

V~100-120
A 3.0
V~220-240
A 1.7

1
2

V~100-120
A 7.9/4

/220

.2
Hz 50-60
W 359

System unit
communications
connector
Communication device
cable connector

Adapter

Clip

WSE2I058

Figure 7-4. Using an adapter to connect a communication device to
the system unit

External Communication Options: Printers, Plotters, Modems, and Console Terminals 7–7

Plug the power cord into the power source.
10. Turn on the device according to the instructions that came
with it.
11. Turn on the system unit by pressing the 1 on the on/off
switch on the back of the unit or by turning on the power
strip.
9.

The system unit performs its power-up self-test and
displays the console prompt (>>) when all the subtests are
completed successfully.
12. At the console prompt (>>), type test and press Return.
This causes the workstation to run the system self-test. As
the system performs the subtests that make up the system
self-test, the subtest being performed is briefly identified in
a display in the lower-left corner of your screen.
When all tests have been completed successfully, the
console prompt (>>) appears in the lower-left corner of your
screen.
If a subtest fails, turn to Chapter 9 of this guide for
troubleshooting instructions. The console prompt (>>)
reappears in the lower-left corner of your screen.

7–8 External Communication Options: Printers, Plotters, Modems, and Console Terminals

Part III
Testing Hardware

8
Starting and Testing Workstation Hardware
This chapter tells you
How to turn your workstation on and off
How the power-up and system self-tests operate
How to set your keyboard language
How to check the configuration of your workstation

Starting and Testing Workstation Hardware 8–1

Turning On Your Workstation
If your workstation is on a power strip, be sure the power strip
is plugged into a power source and turned on.
Then turn on the parts of your workstation in the order
described here. As you turn on each piece of equipment, its
power indicator light begins to glow.
Turn on optional external devices
Turn on each expansion box by pressing the 1 on the on/off
switch on the box.
Turn on any communication device by following the instructions
that came with it.
On/off switches

d i g it a

WSE2O019

Figure 8-1. Expansion box on/off switches

8–2 Starting and Testing Workstation Hardware

Turn on the monitor
The procedure for turning on the monitor varies according to
the monitor you use and the way your monitor receives its
power. In all cases, a green indicator light glows on the front of
the monitor when it is receiving power.
If your monitor receives its power from a wall outlet or a power
strip, the indicator light glows green when you turn on the
monitor, but the display appears only after you turn on the
system unit.
1.

Find the brightness and/or contrast controls located next to
their icons on the front of the monitor.

Brightness

Contrast

WSE2I027

Figure 8-2. Brightness and contrast icons
2.
3.
4.
5.

Turn these controls on as far as they will go.
On the VR297 16-inch and VRT19 19-inch color monitors,
turn these controls all the way to your left.
On VR299 19-inch color monitors, turn these controls
toward you as you face the screen.
On VR262 gray-scale 19-inch monitors, turn these controls
away from you as you face the screen.

Starting and Testing Workstation Hardware 8–3

To turn on a 19-inch VRT19 color monitor, a 19-inch
VR262 gray-scale monitor, or a 16-inch VR297 color
monitor
Set the on/off switch on the front of the monitor to the on
position by pressing the 1 on the switch.
The indicator light on the front of the monitor glows green, and
the screen lights up.
To turn on a 19-inch VR299 color monitor
Press and release the on/off switch on the front of the monitor.
The indicator light on the front of the monitor glows green, and
the screen lights up.
If your monitor fails to turn on
If you are using a monitor power cord instead of a monitor-tosystem-unit power cord, the indicator light turns on but the
screen remains dark until the system unit is turned on also.
If you are using a monitor-to-system-unit power cord, and
the green indicator light turns on but the screen stays dark,
be sure that
– The contrast and brightness controls located by their
icons on the monitor are turned all the way on.
– The system unit is turned on.
If the screen remains dark, turn to Chapter 9 of this guide
for troubleshooting instructions.

8–4 Starting and Testing Workstation Hardware

If nothing happens when you turn on the monitor, be sure
that
– The monitor power cord or the monitor-to-system-unit
power cable is connected properly.
– There is power at the power outlet.
– The monitor power switch and, if you are using a
monitor-to-system-unit power cord, the system unit
power switch are set to the on position.
If this doesn’t help, turn to Chapter 9 of this guide for
troubleshooting instructions.
If you are using a power strip, be sure the power strip is
plugged in and turned on.

Starting and Testing Workstation Hardware 8–5

Turn on the system unit
Set the on/off switch on the back of the system unit to the on
position by pressing the 1 on the switch.

PMAG

-C

V~100-120
A 3.0
V~220-240
A 1.7

PMAD

-A

V~100-120

A 7.9/4

Hz 50W3

3
2

On/off switch
in the on position
WSE2I018

Figure 8-3. Turning on the system unit

8–6 Starting and Testing Workstation Hardware

When the system unit turns on, the following things happen:
A green indicator light glows on the front of the system
unit.
The system unit runs the power-up self-test.
If necessary, the workstation prompts you to set your
keyboard language.
As the system performs the subtests that make up the power-up
self-test, the subtest IDs flicker in the lower-left corner of the
screen.
If your workstation language has already been set, a display
similar to the following appears on your screen when the
system unit has completed the power-up self-test successfully:
KN02-AA
>>

V5.3d

If the workstation language needs to be set, the following
language menu appears on the screen:
1) Dansk
9) Français (Suisse Romande)
2) Deutsch
10) Italiano
3) Deutsch (Schweiz)
11) Nederlands
4) English
12) Norsk
5) English (British/Irish) 13) Portûgues
6) Español
14) Suomi
7) Français
15) Svenska
8) Français (Canadien)
16) Vlaams
(1..16): _

At the language prompt [(1..16): _], type the number
displayed to the left of the language you want to use. Then
press Return.
The console prompt (>>) appears when your language is set.
If the display that appears on your screen after the power-up
self-test has been completed is neither a language menu nor
similar to the preceding successful self-test display, turn to
Chapter 9 of this guide for an explanation of error messages
and troubleshooting instructions.

Starting and Testing Workstation Hardware 8–7

If your system unit fails to turn on
If nothing happens when you turn on the system unit, turn it
off and check to be sure that
Both power cords are connected properly and the power
strip, if there is one, is plugged in and turned on.
There is power at power outlets.
Monitor and system unit power switches are set to the on
position.
If the system unit still fails to work, turn to Chapter 9 of this
guide for troubleshooting instructions.
If nothing happens when you use the keyboard
Disconnect the keyboard cable from its connector on the
connector block. Then reconnect the cable and try the keyboard
again.
If the keyboard still fails to work, press the reset button on the
back of the system unit.
If the keyboard continues to fail, turn to Chapter 9 of this guide
for troubleshooting instructions.

8–8 Starting and Testing Workstation Hardware

Testing Your Workstation
Run the System Self-Test
When the system unit completes the power-up self-test and the
console prompt (>>) appears on the screen, type test and press
Return.
This causes the workstation to run its system self-test. As the
system performs the subtests that make up the system self-test,
the subtest being performed is briefly identified in a display in
the lower-left corner of your monitor screen.
When all tests have been completed successfully, the console
prompt (>>) appears on the lower-left corner of your screen.
If a self-test fails or if there is no display on the monitor
When the system self-test is completed, any error messages
that have been generated appear in the lower-left corner of the
screen above the console prompt (>>).
If any messages appear along with the console prompt (>>),
or if no display appears on the monitor, turn to Chapter 9 for
a discussion of error messages both on the screen and on the
diagnostic indicator lights on the system unit.

Starting and Testing Workstation Hardware 8–9

Checking Your Configuration Displays
The configuration test tells you which option modules are
present in your system unit and where they are.
The display that appears when you run the configuration test
identifies each module in your system unit in the following
ways:
By a special ID (or part) number
By the number of the system unit slot that contains the
module
When you run the configuration test, check to be sure all the
modules ordered for your workstation are listed in the display
that appears on your screen. The modules you ordered are
listed on the packing list for your shipment.
Type cnfg at the console prompt (>>) and press Return. A
display similar to that in Figure 8-4 appears on the screen:
>>cnfg
7: KN02-AA
6: PMAD-AA
5: PMAZ-AA
2: PMAD-AA
1: PMAZ-AA
0: PMAG-BA
>>

DEC
DEC
DEC
DEC
DEC
DEC

T5.2a
T5.2a
T5.2a
X5.1f
X5.1e
T5.2a

TCF0
TCF0
TCF0
TCF0
TCF0
TCF0

( 24 MB)
(enet: 08-00-2b-0f-45-72)
(SCSI = 7)
(enet: 08-00-2b-0f-45-31)
(SCSI = 7)
(CX -- d=8)

Figure 8-4. Sample workstation configuration display

In Figure 8-4, the number that begins each line in the
configuration display is the number of a base slot or an option
slot that contains a module.
Look for lines that begin with 0:, 1:, and 2:. These lines
represent option slots that contain option modules. Any
slot that does not contain a module does not show up in the
configuration display.

8–10 Starting and Testing Workstation Hardware

The information inside the parentheses at the end of each
display line shows what kind of option module is present in
that slot.
CX shows that you have a color frame buffer.

A color frame buffer module can be installed in any of the
three option slots.
In the display in Figure 8-4, a color frame buffer module is
present in option slot 0.
PX shows that you have a 2D graphics accelerator module.
A 2D graphics accelerator module can be installed in option
slot 0 or 1.
DA: PXG shows that you have a low 3D graphics accelerator
module.
A low 3D graphics accelerator module can be installed in
option slots 0 and 1 and is displayed in option slot 1. In
this case, option slot 0 would not be represented in the
display.
EA: PXG shows that you have a mid 3D graphics accelerator
module.
A mid 3D graphics accelerator module can be installed in
option slots 0 and 1 and is displayed in option slot 1. In
this case, option slot 0 would not be represented in the
display.
FA: PXG_T shows that you have a high 3D graphics
accelerator module.
A high 3D graphics accelerator module is installed in all
three option slots and is displayed as option slot 1. In this
case, neither option slot 0 nor option slot 2 would appear in
the display.
SCSI shows that you have a SCSI module.
A SCSI module is always present in base slot 5. In
addition, a SCSI option module can be installed in any
of the three option slots.
In the display in Figure 8-4, a SCSI option module is
present in option slot 1.

Starting and Testing Workstation Hardware 8–11

enet: shows that you have an Ethernet option module.

A ThinWire Ethernet module is always present in base
slot 6. In addition, a ThickWire Ethernet module can be
installed in any of the three option slots on the system unit.
To display the configuration for a particular slot, type cnfg and
the slot number at the console prompt (>>). Then press Return.
A configuration display similar to that in Figure 8-5 appears on
the screen.
In the display in Figure 8-4, a ThickWire Ethernet option
module is present in option slot 2.
>>cnfg 5
5: PMAZ-AA DEC
T5.2a
TCF0 (SCSI = 7)
--------------------------------------------------DEV
PID
VID
REV
SCSI DEV
===== ================== ========== ====== ========
rz1
RZ55
(C) DEC
DEC
0700
DIR
rz4
RRD40
(C) DEC
DEC
0700
CD-ROM
tz6
SEQ
>>
Figure 8-5. Sample slot configuration display

In Figure 8-5, the line that begins with a number followed
by a colon tells you the number of the slot for which the
configuration is being displayed. In the example in Figure 8-5,
the display is the configuration for the SCSI module in base
slot 5.
The entries in the first column of the display tell you what
drives are present and what their ID numbers are. Entries that
begin with rz are for hard disk and optical compact disc drives.
Entries that begin with tz are for tape drives.
The entries in the last column tell you what type the drive
is. DIR indicates that the drive is a hard disk drive. CD-ROM
indicates that the drive is an optical compact disc drive. SEQ
indicates that the drive is a tape drive.
The in the sample display that contain 5: and tz6 show that
a TK50 drive with SCSI ID number 5 is connected to a SCSI
module located in base slot 5 on the system unit.

8–12 Starting and Testing Workstation Hardware

Turning Off Your Workstation
If your worksystem software has been installed, follow the
instructions that came with that software to shut it down.
If your workstation is on a power strip
Turn off the power strip by pressing the raised portion of its
on/off switch.
If your workstation is not on a power strip
1.
2.
3.
4.

Turn off any communication device by following the
instructions that came with it.
Turn off each expansion box you have by pressing the 0 on
the on/off switch on the box.
Turn off the system unit by pressing the 0 on the on/off
switch on the back of the unit.
Turn off the monitor.
If your monitor receives its power through the system
unit, the monitor turns off when you turn off the
system unit.
If your monitor receives its power from a wall outlet,
press the 0 on the on/off switch on the front of the 19inch VRT19 color monitor, the 19-inch VR262 gray-scale
monitor, or the 16-inch VR297 color monitor; press and
release the on/off switch on the front of the 19-inch
VR299 monitor.

Starting and Testing Workstation Hardware 8–13

9
Troubleshooting
This chapter tells you
How to use the system self-test
How to read error messages on the screen and on the
diagnostic indicator lights on the system unit
What you can do to correct hardware problems
When you need to ask for help
How to contact your Digital service representative
What kind of information your Digital service representative needs from you

Troubleshooting 9–1

Using Self-Tests
Self-tests consist of a number of subtests that check the parts
of your workstation and tell you whether they are working
correctly.
You can run a self-test in one of the following ways:
By turning on your workstation
By typing test at the console prompt (>>) and pressing
Return
By pressing the reset button on the back of the system unit

PMAG

-C

V~100-120
A 3.0
V~220-240
A 1.7

1
2

PMAD

-A

V~100-120
A 7.9/4

.2
Hz 50-60
W 359

/220-240

On/off switch
Reset button

WSE2O010

Figure 9-1. The reset button on the system unit

9–2 Troubleshooting

The Power-Up Self-Test
When you turn on your workstation, the system unit runs the
power-up self-test.
As the system performs the subtests that make up this test, the
subtest IDs flicker in the lower-left corner of the screen.
When the system unit has completed the power-up self-test
successfully, and if your workstation language has been set, a
display similar to the following appears on the screen:
KN02-AA
>>

V5.3d

If your workstation language needs to be set, a list of available
languages appears on the screen. Turn to page 8-7 for
information about setting the language.
If an error message appears on your screen, or if the self-test
does not complete and no display appears on the screen, turn to
‘‘Reading Self-Test Results’’ on page 9-4.
The System Self-Test
When the system unit has completed the power-up self-test, the
workstation language has been set if necessary, and the console
prompt (>>) has appeared on the screen, type test and press
Return.
This causes the workstation to run the system self-test. As the
system performs the subtests that make up the system self-test,
the subtest being performed is briefly identified in a display in
the lower-left corner of your screen.
When all subtests have been completed successfully, the console
prompt (>>) appears in the lower-left corner of the screen.

Troubleshooting 9–3

Reading Self-Test Results
You can read system self-test results in the following ways:
By interpreting the display on the monitor.
By interpreting the diagnostic indicator lights on the back
of the system unit. Use these lights when there is no
display on the monitor.
Interpreting Error Messages Displayed on the Screen

For every error the system detects when the monitor is working,
an error message appears on the screen.
The first line of the message tells you where the error occurred.
This line looks something like the following:
?TFL 7/dz/alrm (bad interrupt) [KN02-AA]

The question mark and the three letters that follow the
question mark show that this is an error message.
If any letters other than TFL appear in this location, call
your system manager or your Digital service representative.
The first number that follows ?TFL is the slot number of the
module that reported the error. In the sample message, the
failure is in slot 7, the system module.
The characters that follow the first backslash are the error
code for the individual test that failed.
The characters after the second backslash are the error
code that indicates which part of the test failed.
The characters in parentheses give additional information
about the error.
The last section of the error message shows the module
identification number.
Tables 9-1 through 9-8 list error messages you might see and
tell you what they mean and how to use them to find out where
the problem is. Follow the troubleshooting instructions in
Table 9-1 before you turn to any of the others.

9–4 Troubleshooting

Chapter 4 of this guide contains instructions for removing
and replacing the cover of the system unit and for use of the
antistatic wrist strap and handling of memory and other option
modules.
Warnings: Always shut down the worksystem software and turn the
workstation off before connecting or disconnecting a piece of hardware
and before removing the cover from the system unit or reattaching it.

Always use the antistatic wrist strap when handling memory or other
option modules.
Table 9-1. Error Messages on the Monitor
Message

Action

?TFL 0

Check the option module in option slot 0 on the system unit.
Be sure the module is inserted tightly in its slot and that anything
that is connected to it is connected correctly.
If you have another option module that you know is good, try it in
that option slot. If the test no longer fails, the problem is in the option
module. If the test continues to fail, the problem is probably in the
system module.
If you don’t have another option module that you know is good, move
that module to another option slot and run the test again. Remember
that 2D graphics accelerator modules can go only in slots 0 or 1 and
that a 3D module cannot be moved to another slot.
If the test no longer fails, the problem is in the system module. If the
test continues to fail, the problem is in either the option module or the
system module.
(continued on next page)

Troubleshooting 9–5

Table 9-1 (Cont.). Error Messages on the Monitor
Message

Action

See the following tables for descriptions of test error messages that
relate to specific types of modules.
Color frame buffer video modules–Table 9-2
Graphics accelerator modules–Table 9-3
3D graphics accelerator modules–Table 9-4
Ethernet modules–Table 9-6
SCSI modules–Table 9-5
The system module and memory modules–Table 9-7
?TFL 1

Check the option module in option slot 1 in the system unit.
Be sure the module is inserted tightly in its slot and that anything
that is connected to it is connected correctly.
If you have another option module that you know is good, try it in
that option slot. If the test no longer fails, the problem is in the option
module. If the test continues to fail, the problem is probably in the
system module.
If you don’t have another option module that you know is good, move
the module to another option slot and run the test again. Remember
that 2D graphics accelerator modules can go in only slots 0 and 1 and
that a 3D module cannot be moved to another slot.
(continued on next page)

9–6 Troubleshooting

Table 9-1 (Cont.). Error Messages on the Monitor
Message

Action

If the test no longer fails, the problem is in the system module. If the
test continues to fail, the problem is in either the option module or the
system module.
See the following tables for descriptions of test error messages that
relate to specific types of modules.
Color frame buffer video modules–Table 9-2
Graphics accelerator modules–Table 9-3
3D graphics accelerator modules–Table 9-4
Ethernet modules–Table 9-6
SCSI modules–Table 9-5
The system module and memory modules–Table 9-7
(continued on next page)

Troubleshooting 9–7

Table 9-1 (Cont.). Error Messages on the Monitor
Message

Action

?TFL 2

Check the option module in option slot 2 in the system unit.
Be sure the module is inserted tightly in its slot and that anything
that is connected to it is connected correctly.
If you have another option module that you know is good, try it in
that option slot. If the test no longer fails, the problem is in the option
module. If the test continues to fail, the problem is probably in the
system module.
If you don’t have another option module that you know is good, move
the module to another option slot and run the test again. Remember
that 2D graphics accelerator modules can go in only slots 0 and 1 and
that a 3D module cannot be moved to another slot.
If the test no longer fails, the problem is in the system module. If the
test continues to fail, the problem is in either the option module or the
system module.
See the following tables for descriptions of test error messages that
relate to specific types of modules.
Color frame buffer video modules–Table 9-2
Graphics accelerator modules–Table 9-3
3D graphics accelerator modules–Table 9-4
Ethernet modules–Table 9-6
SCSI modules–Table 9-5
The system module–Table 9-7

?TFL 5

Check the SCSI module in base slot 5 in the system unit.
Be sure the system module is inserted tightly in its slot and that
anything that is connected to it is connected correctly.
See Table 9-6 for more information about troubleshooting SCSI
modules.
(continued on next page)

9–8 Troubleshooting

Table 9-1 (Cont.). Error Messages on the Monitor
Message

Action

?TFL 6

Check the ThinWire Ethernet module in base slot 6 in the system unit.
If your Ethernet module is connected to a ThinWire network, be sure
the ThinWire cables are connected correctly. Then disconnect the
ThinWire cables and terminate the T-connector. If the test still fails,
the problem is in the system module. If the test no longer fails, the
problem is in the network.
If your Ethernet module is not connected to a ThinWire network, be
sure a terminated T-connector is connected to the ThinWire connector
on the system unit.

?TFL 7

See Table 9-6 for more information about troubleshooting Ethernet
modules.
Check the system module in base slot 7 in the system unit.
Be sure that anything connected to the system module is inserted
tightly into its slot.
See Table 9-7 for more information about troubleshooting the system
module, memory modules, the keyboard and mouse, and the power
supply.

Troubleshooting 9–9

Table 9-2. Test Error Codes for Color Frame Buffer Modules
Error Code

Action

curs
int
vdac
ptrn

Replace the color frame buffer module.
The problem is in the monitor or video cable. Try a new monitor. Try
a new video cable.

Table 9-3. Test Error Codes for the 2D Graphics Accelerator Module
Error Code

Action

stic

The problem is in the 2D graphics accelerator module or the system
module.

damaddrs
intr-dma
shade
stamp
vdac
vdacsig
ff
fbfill

Move the 2D graphics accelerator module to another option slot,
remembering that a 2D module cannot go in option slot 2. If the test
no longer fails, replace the system module and chassis. If the test
still returns error code stic in the new slot, replace the 2D graphics
module.
Replace the 2D graphics accelerator module.

Contact your Digital service representative.

9–10 Troubleshooting

Table 9-4. Test Error Codes for 3D Graphics Accelerator Modules
Error Code

Action

fb
fbfill
vdacsig

The problem may be in the 3D graphics module.

intrdma
i860
patrns
sdmaddrs
shade
stamp
stic-reg
vdacreg

If the error message ends with the phrase vsimm=number, contact
your Digital service representative. If the error message does not end
with the phrase vsimm=number, replace the 3D graphics module.
The problem is in the 3D graphics module or the system module.
If you have another 3D module that you know is good, try it in the
option slots. If the test no longer fails, replace the option module. If
the test continues to fail, replace the system module and chassis.
If you have no other 3D module, contact your Digital service
representative.

Table 9-5. Test Error Codes for SCSI Modules
Error Code

Action

cntl
sram

Replace the SCSI controller. The slot number in the error message is
the number of the slot in which the problem SCSI controller is located.

sdiag

If the faulty SCSI controller is on the system module, replace the
system module and chassis. If the faulty SCSI controller is an option
module, replace the option module.
The problem is in the SCSI controller or a drive connected to the SCSI
controller. Contact your Digital service representative.

Troubleshooting 9–11

Table 9-6. Test Error Codes for Ethernet Controller Modules
Error Code

Action

cllsn
crc
esar
init
int-lb
m-cst
promisc
ram
regs
ext

Replace the Ethernet controller. The slot number in the error message
is the number of the slot in which the problem Ethernet controller.
If the faulty Ethernet controller is in base slot 6, replace the system
module and chassis. If the faulty Ethernet controller is in one of the
option slots, replace the Ethernet option module.

Check the Ethernet connection. If the test no longer fails, the problem
is in the Ethernet controller.
If the faulty Ethernet controller is in base slot 6, replace the system
module and chassis. If the faulty Ethernet controller is in one of the
option slots, replace the Ethernet option module.

Table 9-7. Test Error Codes for Base System Modules
Error Code

Action

dz/cache
ecc

Replace the system module and chassis.
The problem is in the memory module or the system module.
Make sure the memory modules are firmly seated on the system
module.
If the test still fails, run the system memory test for all memory
modules. Type t 7/mem * and press Return. This test, which checks
the operation of each memory module, takes several minutes for each
module tested.
The number in the parentheses in the error message that appears
on the screen is the number of the slot that contains a bad memory
module. Replace any modules the memory test indicates are bad.

fpu

9–12 Troubleshooting

Table 9-7 (Cont.). Test Error Codes for Base System Modules
Error Code

Action

mem

The problem is in the memory module or the system module.
Make sure the memory modules are firmly seated on the system
module.
If the test still fails, run the system memory test for all memory
modules. Type t 7/mem * and press Return. This test, which checks
the operation of each memory module, takes several minutes for each
module tested.
The number in the parentheses in the error message that appears
on the screen is the number of the slot that contains a bad memory
module. Replace any modules the memory test indicates are bad.

misc/kbd
misc/mouse

If the system reports that all memory modules are bad, remove them
all and insert a memory module that you know is good. Run the
memory test again. If the memory test still fails replace the system
module and chassis.
The problem is in the keyboard, mouse, keyboard-mouse cable, or the
system module.
Be sure that the keyboard and mouse are attached correctly to the
keyboard-mouse cable and the keyboard-mouse cable is attached
correctly to the system unit.
If the test still fails and the error message is misc/kbd, replace the
keyboard. If the test still fails and the error message is misc/mouse,
replace the mouse.
If the test still fails after the problem item is replaced, try a new
keyboard-mouse cable.
If the test still fails, replace the system module and chassis.
(continued on next page)

Troubleshooting 9–13

Table 9-7 (Cont.). Test Error Codes for Base System Modules
Error Code

Action

misc/pstemp

The problem is in the power supply. Contact your Digital service
representative.
Replace the system module and chassis.
Replace the system module and chassis.

misc/wbpart
tlb

9–14 Troubleshooting

Interpreting Diagnostic Indicator Lights on the System Unit

When no display appears on your monitor, you can read self-test
results by looking at the diagnostic indicator lights on the back
of the system unit. They are located between the ThinWire
Ethernet connector and the reset button.
Table 9-8 lists the error messages you might see on the
diagnostic indicator lights and tells you what they mean and
how to use them to find out what the problem is. The four
lights on the left display a pattern that tells you where the
problem is. The four lights on the right provide additional
information about the problem.
Warnings: Always shut down the worksystem software and turn the
workstation off before connecting or disconnecting a piece of hardware
and before removing the cover from the system unit or reattaching it.

Always use the antistatic wrist strap when handling memory or other
option modules, whether they are in or out of the system unit.

Chapter 4 of this guide contains instructions for removing
and replacing the cover of the system unit and for use of the
antistatic wrist strap and handling of memory and other option
modules.

d i g

i t a
l

PMAG

-C

V~100-120
A 3.0
V~220-240
A 1.7

PMAZ

-A

PMAD

-A

V~100-120
A 7.9/4

.2
Hz 50-60
W 359

/220-240

Diagnostic
indicator lights

WSE2I081

Figure 9-2. Diagnostic indicator lights

Troubleshooting 9–15

Table 9-8. Interpreting Diagnostic Indicator Lights on the System Unit
Four Left Lights

Action

No display; test
does not start

Check for loose or damaged connectors. Reseat any loose modules.
If the system still does not start, there is a basic problem in the
system. Contact your Digital service representative.
A hardware problem is preventing the test from running. Contact
your Digital service representative.
If, in addition, the right indicator lights display On On On On,
replace the memory module in memory slot 1. If the right indicator
lights do not display On On On On, the problem is in the system
module. Replace the system module and chassis.
The problem is in the system module. Replace the system module
and chassis.
The problem is in the system module. Replace the system module
and chassis.
Replace the module in option slot 2.
Replace the module in option slot 1.
If any of the indicator lights on the right are on, replace the option
module in option slot 0.

On On On On
Off On On On

Off On On Off
Off On Off On
Off Off On Off
Off Off Off On
Off Off Off Off

If the indicator lights blinked as the system ran its tests and
the four right indicator lights are off, the self-test completed
successfully. Check your monitor.

9–16 Troubleshooting

Solving Basic Hardware Problems
Table 9-9 offers solutions to a number of hardware problems.
If you follow the suggestions given here and your problem
remains unresolved, contact your system manager or your
Digital service representative.
Warnings: Always turn the workstation off before connecting or
disconnecting a piece of hardware and before removing the cover from
the system unit or reattaching it.

Always use the antistatic wrist strap when handling memory or other
option modules, whether they are in or out of the system unit.
Table 9-9. Solutions to Basic Hardware Problems
Problem

Solution

The screen is blank.

Follow these steps:
1.

Press any key on your keyboard. If your screen saver was
active, the display will reappear.

Be sure the system unit and monitor are turned on.

Adjust your brightness and contrast controls to increase
the brightness and contrast.

Turn off the system unit and monitor.

Be sure the system unit power cord and the monitor-tosystem-unit power cable or the monitor power cord are
connected correctly.

Be sure the video cable is securely connected to the
monitor and system unit.

Turn on the system unit and monitor.
(continued on next page)

Troubleshooting 9–17

Table 9-9 (Cont.). Solutions to Basic Hardware Problems
Problem

Solution

The screen display is
distorted or unstable.

Follow these steps:

Color is distorted or
unclear.

Red or blue color
is missing from
the display on your
screen.

Shut down your worksystem software, if necessary, and
turn off the system unit and monitor.

Make sure the video cable connectors are correctly
attached to the monitor and system unit.

Turn on the system unit and monitor.

Follow these steps:
1.

Move such items as magnetic paper clip holders and
electric pencil sharpeners or other electromechanical
devices away from the monitor.

If your monitor has a degauss button, press it for 5
seconds. If the monitor has no degauss button, turn the
monitor off and then on again.

See the documentation that came with your monitor for
further troubleshooting instructions.

Follow these steps:
1.

Shut down your worksystem software, if necessary, and
turn off the system unit and monitor.

Be sure the video cable connectors are attached to the
monitor in the following order, from left to right: red,
green, blue.

Turn on the system unit and monitor.
(continued on next page)

9–18 Troubleshooting

Table 9-9 (Cont.). Solutions to Basic Hardware Problems
Problem

Solution

The Digital logo
appears in red instead
of blue on the login
screen on a color
monitor.

Follow these steps:

When you type,
nothing happens
on the screen.

Shut down you worksystem software, if necessary, and
turn off the system unit and monitor.

Remove the video cable connector from the video connector
on the system unit.

Position the cable connector so the Digital logo is on top
and reattach the cable connector to the connector on the
system unit.

Turn on the system unit and monitor.

Follow these steps:
1.

Check the indicator light under the Hold Screen label on
the function key strip on the keyboard. If the indicator
light glows green, press the Hold Screen key.

Shut down your worksystem software, if necessary, and
turn off the system unit.

Disconnect the keyboard cable from its connector on the
keyboard-mouse connector block and then reconnect it.

Make sure the keyboard-mouse cable is firmly attached to
the system unit and turn on the system unit.

Turn off the system unit and monitor, connect another
keyboard, and turn on the system unit and monitor again.
(continued on next page)

Troubleshooting 9–19

Table 9-9 (Cont.). Solutions to Basic Hardware Problems
Problem

Solution

You cannot log on
to the network, and
you have already
ruled out software
problems.

If you are using ThickWire Ethernet, follow these steps:
1.

Shut down your worksystem software, if necessary, and
turn off the system unit.

Be sure your ThickWire connector is firmly attached to
the ThickWire connector on the system unit.

Turn on the system unit.

If you are using ThinWire Ethernet, follow these steps:
1.

Shut down your worksystem software, if necessary, and
turn off the system unit.

Be sure your ThinWire cable connector(s) and/or
terminator are firmly attached to the ThinWire
T-connector.

Be sure the ThinWire T-connector is correctly attached to
the ThinWire connector on the system unit.

Turn on the system unit.
(continued on next page)

9–20 Troubleshooting

Table 9-9 (Cont.). Solutions to Basic Hardware Problems
Problem

Solution

No cursor appears on
the screen.

Follow these steps:

The cursor on the
screen fails to follow
the movement of the
mouse on the desktop
or the puck or stylus
on the tablet.

Check the indicator light under the Hold Screen label on
the function key strip on the keyboard. If the indicator
light glows green, press the Hold Screen key.

Move the mouse around on your desktop or the puck
or stylus around on your tablet to be sure you haven’t
accidentally moved the cursor off your screen.

Shut down your worksystem software, if necessary, and
turn off the system unit.

Make sure the mouse cable is correctly connected to the
keyboard-mouse connector block and the keyboard-mouse
cable is correctly connected to the system unit.

Turn on the system unit.

Turn off the system unit, connect another mouse or tablet,
and turn on the system unit again.

Follow these steps:
1.

Shut down your worksystem software, if necessary, and
turn off the system unit.

Be sure the mouse cable is correctly connected to the
keyboard-mouse connector block and the keyboard-mouse
cable is correctly connected to the system unit.

Turn on the system unit.

Turn off the system unit, connect another mouse or tablet
and turn on the system unit again.
If a new mouse works, clean the old mouse by following
the directions given in Chapter 2 of this guide.

(continued on next page)

Troubleshooting 9–21

Table 9-9 (Cont.). Solutions to Basic Hardware Problems
Problem

Solution

You cannot install
worksystem software
from a tape or optical
compact disc drive.

If you have only one external storage device, follow these steps:
1.

Be sure the device is turned on.

Turn off the device and the system unit.

Be sure the system unit expansion cable is correctly
connected to the device and the system unit.

Be sure a terminator is correctly attached to the second
connector on the device. Turn on the device and the
system unit.

For further troubleshooting instructions, see the documentation
that came with the device and the installation guide that came
with your worksystem software.
If you have more than one external storage device, follow these
steps:
1.

Be sure all devices and the system unit are receiving
power from an active power source.

Be sure all devices are turned on.

Type cnfg and the number of the base slot or option slot
to which the device is connected.
If the drive you are using does not appear in the
configuration display on the screen, turn off all devices
connected to the system unit and then turn off the system
unit.
For a discussion of configuration displays, see Chapter 8
of this guide.

Check the SCSI ID numbers assigned to the devices
connected to that slot to be sure none is duplicated.
For a discussion of SCSI ID numbers, and how to set
them, see Chapter 5 of this guide.
(continued on next page)

9–22 Troubleshooting

Table 9-9 (Cont.). Solutions to Basic Hardware Problems
Problem

A red light blinks
rapidly on the front
of your TK50Z tape
drive.

Solution

Be sure the system unit expansion cable is correctly
connected to the first device and the system unit.

Be sure a terminator is firmly attached to the second
connector on the final device.

Be sure the connector cables between devices are the
18-inch cables supplied by Digital and that they are
connected correctly.

Be sure that the cabling used to connect SCSI devices to a
given connector on the system unit does not exceed 19 feet
8 inches in length. This includes cable within expansion
boxes as well as external cable.

Turn on the system unit and each device.

For further troubleshooting instructions, see the documentation
that came with your devices.
Follow these steps:
1.

Push the load/unload button four times.

Turn the tape drive off and then on again. Do this only
one time.
(continued on next page)

Troubleshooting 9–23

Table 9-9 (Cont.). Solutions to Basic Hardware Problems
Problem

Solution

Nothing happens
when you try to use
your printer.

Follow these steps:

Nothing happens
when you try to use
a communication
device.

Be sure the printer is turned on.

Shut down your worksystem software, if necessary, and
turn off the printer and the system unit.

Be sure the printer power cord is connected to an active
power source.

Be sure the printer cable connector is correctly attached to
one of the communications connectors on the system unit.

Turn on the system unit and the printer.

For further troubleshooting instructions, see the documentation
that came with your printer.
Follow these steps:
1.

Be sure the device is turned on.

Shut down your worksystem software, if necessary, and
turn off the device and the system unit.

Be sure the device power cord is connected to an active
power source.

Be sure the connector on the communication device cable
is correctly attached to the communications connector or
the communications connector adapter on the system unit.

Turn on the system unit and the device.

For further troubleshooting instructions, see the documentation
that came with the communication device.

9–24 Troubleshooting

Contacting Your Digital Service Representative
If you have followed the suggestions offered in this chapter and
your problem persists, your Digital service representative can
help you. You can get your service representative’s name and
telephone number from your Digital sales representative.
Before you place your call,
Write down the nature of the problem. Include any error
messages you have received and the number of any self-test
subtest that failed.
List the steps you have taken to correct the problem and
the results of those steps.
Write down the serial and model numbers of the equipment
with which you are having a problem.
Be prepared to type commands on the keyboard and read
information from the screen or the system unit diagnostic
indicator lights as you talk to your service representative.

Troubleshooting 9–25

10
Using the Console Program
This chapter tells you how to
Select console and operating modes
Follow console command conventions
Use the console commands
Set environment variables
Work within the system environment

Using the Console Program 10–1

Console and Operating Modes
The workstation operates in one of two modes: console mode
and operating mode.
When you use console mode, the console program allows you
to communicate directly with your workstation hardware by
means of console commands.
When you use operating mode, the worksystem software allows
you to use applications to perform daily workstation activities.
Using Console Mode
Use console commands for such tasks as
Running workstation self-tests
Displaying workstation hardware configurations
Setting workstation environment variables
Booting the operating system
Console prompts

When you use console mode, the system displays one of these
two prompts on the screen:
>> or R>

The >> prompt means that the workstation is in privileged
mode and anyone can use all the console commands.
The R> prompt means that the workstation is in restricted
mode and users who don’t know the password can use
only the boot and password console commands. This does
not mean, however, that they cannot use the worksystem
software. See the description of the passwd command later
in this chapter for more information.

10–2 Using the Console Program

Using Operating Mode
Use worksystem commands for such activities as
Creating and revising files
Backing up files
Sending and receiving electronic mail
Operating system prompts

When you use operating mode, the operating system prompts
you to supply your user name and password.
Entering Console and Operating Modes
Console mode

You enter console mode in any of the following ways:
By turning on the workstation
By pressing the workstation reset button
Caution: Turning off the workstation or pressing the reset button
when the operating system is running may cause loss of data.

By using the shutdown command, if you are running
ULTRIX worksystem software
Operating mode

You enter operating mode in either of the following ways:
By booting the operating system at the console prompt
By setting your workstation to boot the worksystem
software automatically

Using the Console Program 10–3

Rules for Typing Console Commands
Use console commands when the system monitor displays the
prompt >> or R>. Follow these rules:
Type uppercase and lowercase letters exactly as they
appear in command lines. The system recognizes uppercase
and lowercase letters as different input.
Press Return after typing a command message.
Enter number 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).
When reading or writing to memory, you have a choice
of data sizes: byte, halfword, or word. Because a word
is 4 bytes, successive addresses referenced by a word
are successive multiples of 4. For example, the address
following 0x80000004 is 0x80000008. An error occurs if you
specify an address that is not on a boundary for the data
size you are using.
The following key combinations have an immediate effect in
console mode:
Ctrl-s freezes the screen display.
Ctrl-q releases a frozen screen display.
Ctrl-c aborts a command.
Ctrl-u erases a partially typed command line.
DEL deletes the last character typed.

10–4 Using the Console Program

Conventions Used in This Chapter
Letters in boldface type like this are to be typed exactly
as they appear.
Letters in italic type like this are variables that you replace
with actual values. (Note that the help and menu screens
display these variables in all capital letters.)
LETTERS IN UPPERCASE ITALIC TYPE LIKE THIS
are used for variables you can select from a specific list of
values. (The command descriptions presented later in this
chapter explain these values.)
Arguments enclosed in square brackets ( [ ] ) are optional.
Ellipses ( ... ) follow an argument that can be repeated.

Using the Console Program 10–5

Console Command Formats and Functions
The console commands are described in alphabetical order. To
locate the page that discusses a specific command, see the table
of contents.
Console commands and formats are listed here as they appear
in the help menu. To display the help menu, type a question
mark (?) and press Return.
CMD:
boot [[-z #] [-n] #/path [ARG...]]
cat SCRPT
cnfg [#]
d [-bhw] [-S #] RNG val
e [-bhwcdoux] [-S #] RNG
erl [-c]
go [ADR]
init [#] [-m] [ARG...]
ls [#]
passwd [-c] [-s]
printenv [EVN]
restart
script SCRPT
setenv EVN STR
sh [-belvS] [SCRPT] [ARG..]
t [-l] #/STR] [ARG..]
unsetenv EVN

10–6 Using the Console Program

Table 10-1 lists the function of valid console commands.
Table 10-1. Console Command Functions
Command

Function

?
boot
cat
cnfg
d
e
erl
go
init
ls
passwd
printenv
restart
script
setenv
sh
t
unsetenv

Displays list of console commands and formats
Boots the system
Displays scripts
Displays system configuration information
Writes data into memory
Examines memory contents
Displays a log of error messages
Transfers control to a specific address
Resets the system
Displays a list of objects present in a module
Sets and clears the console password
Prints environment variables
Performs a software restart
Enters a short script at the console
Sets environment variables
Invokes a script
Invokes module diagnostics
Deletes environment variables

Using the Console Program 10–7

Console Command Description
DECstation 5000 Model 200 console commands are described
here. To use a console command, type the command as shown
in its description, add the appropriate options and arguments,
and press Return.
The console prompt (>>) is shown on the command line for
clarity.
? Command
>>? [command name]

The ?, or help, command displays brief help messages for
console commands. If you specify a command name, the screen
displays the help message for that command. Otherwise, the
screen displays the help messages for all console commands.
The ? command is not listed in the help menu.
boot Command
>>boot [ [OPTIONS] #/path [argument...] ]
OPTIONS -a
-n
-z number

Perform a multiuser boot
Load but do not execute
Sleep for number seconds

The boot command loads and optionally executes the program
specified by #/path, where # is the slot number of the module
acting as the boot device and path is a device-specific file
specification. The -a option boots for a multiuser environment;
to perform a single user boot, enter the boot command without
the -a option. The -n option suppresses execution of the
program after it is loaded. The -z option causes the system
to wait for number seconds before starting the bootstrap.
If no arguments are specified, the contents of the boot
environment variable are used as the argument list. Use the
setenv command to specify the contents of the boot environment
variable.

10–8 Using the Console Program

If you specify any arguments, you must include the entire
argument string in the boot command. The system ignores the
boot environment variable when any additional arguments are
included.
For example, you can use the boot command to specify a file on
a disk drive connected to the SCSI module that has SCSI ID 0
and is located in base slot 5 by typing boot 5/rz0/vmunix. To
boot for a multiuser environment, type "boot 5/rz0/vmunix -a".
Note that if you use the setenv command to set the boot
environment variable for a multiuser environment, you must
surround the command with double quotation marks because
this command contains a blank. Thus enter "5/rz0/vmunix -a".
See ‘‘Environment Variables’’ later in this chapter for more
information.
cat Command
>>cat #/scriptname

The cat command displays the contents of the script specified
by scriptname. Replace # with the slot number of the module
that contains the script whose contents you want to display.

Using the Console Program 10–9

cnfg Command
>>cnfg [#]

The cnfg command displays system configuration information.
If you specify a module number for #, the screen displays
configuration information for that module. Otherwise, the
screen displays configuration information for each module in
the system. The following example shows a cnfg display that
might appear when no slot number is specified. This display
shows a system with optional Ethernet, SCSI, and color frame
buffer modules.
>>cnfg
7: KN02-AA
6: PMAD-AA
5: PMAZ-AA
2: PMAD-AA
1: PMAZ-AA
0: PMAG-BA

DEC
DEC
DEC
DEC
DEC
DEC

T5.2a
T5.2a
T5.2a
X5.1f
X5.1e
T5.2a

TCF0
TCF0
TCF0
TCF0
TCF0
TCF0

( 24 MB)
(enet: 08-00-2b-0c-e0-d1)
(SCSI = 7)
(enet: 08-00-2b-0f-43-31)
(SCSI = 7)
(CX -- d=8)

The following is a sample configuration display for the system
and three memory modules located in base slot 7.
>>cnfg 7
7: KN02-AA DEC
T5.2f
TCF0
mem( 0): a0000000:a07fffff
mem( 1): a0800000:a0ffffff
mem( 2): a1000000:a17fffff

( 24 MB)
( 8 MB)
( 8 MB)
( 8 MB)

The following is a sample display for the SCSI devices
connected to a SCSI module located in base slot 5.
>>cnfg 5
5: PMAZ-AA DEC
T5.2e
TCF0
(SCSI = 7)
----------------------------------------------------DEV
PID
VID
REV
SCSI DEV
===== ================= ============ ======= =========
rz0
RZ55
(C) DEC DEC
0700
DIR
rz1
RZ56
(C) DEC DEC
0200
DIR
tz3
SEQ

10–10 Using the Console Program

In the column heads for the table in this display,
DEV stands for device name.
PID stands for peripheral identifier.
VID stands for vendor identifier.
REV stands for device revision level.
SCSI DEV stands for SCSI device type.
DIR indicates a direct access device, or hard disk drive.
SEQ indicates a sequential access device, or tape drive.
CD-ROM indicates an optical compact disc drive.
d Command
>>d [OPTIONS] RANGE value
OPTIONS -w
-h
-b
-S count
RANGE

address
address:address
address#count
range,range

Word (default)
Halfword
Byte
Repeat deposit count
times
Single address
Start and end address
Start address and count
More than one range

The d, or deposit, command deposits values in memory. Values
can be stored as words, halfwords, or bytes. The default size
is word. The d command deposits the specified value through
the range of specified addresses. No intervening blanks are
allowed in an address range. You can specify the address range
as follows:
A single address (address)
A starting and an ending address (address:address)
A starting address and the number of addresses
(address#count)
Multiple address ranges separated by commas (range,range).
Note that no space follows the comma in an address range.

Using the Console Program 10–11

The -S option causes a value to be stored repeatedly in memory.
The value is stored count times at each address in the address
range.
e Command
>>e [OPTIONS] RANGE
OPTIONS -w
-h
-b
-S count
-x
-o
-u

RANGE

-d
-c
address
address:address
address#count
range,range

Word (default)
Halfword
Byte
Repeat examine count times
Display in hexadecimal format
Display in octal format
Display in unsigned decimal
format
Display in decimal format
Display as ASCII characters
Single address
Start and end address
Start address and count
More than one range

The e, or examine, command examines the contents of memory.
Memory can be examined as words, halfwords, or bytes. The
default size is word. The e command examines values in the
range of addresses specified. You can specify the address range
by using the following:
A single address (address)
A starting and an ending address (address:address)
A starting address and the number of addresses
(address#count)
Multiple address ranges separated by commas (range,range)
Note that no intervening space follows the comma in an
address range.

10–12 Using the Console Program

The format options -x, -o, -u, -d and -c specify how the data
is to be displayed. If more than one option is specified, data
is displayed in each format specified. If no format option is
specified, -x is assumed.
The -S option causes the value to be fetched repeatedly. The
contents of each address in the address range is fetched count
times. Only the final value fetched is displayed.
erl Command
>>erl [-c]

The erl command displays a log of error messages. Error
messages are displayed messages that start with a question
mark (?). The system records error messages in a special error
log buffer, and the erl command displays the contents of this
buffer. If you specify -c, the buffer is cleared. The system stops
recording error messages when the buffer is full and resumes
when the buffer is cleared.
go Command
>>go [address]

The go command transfers control to the specified address. If
no address is specified, the execution address returned by the
last boot -n command is used. If no boot -n command has been
executed and no address is specified, the command is ignored.
init Command
>>init [#] [-m] [arguments...]

The init command initializes module hardware. If you specify a
module number (#), only that module is initialized. Otherwise,
all modules are initialized.
If you specify init with -m for system module 7, all base system
memory is cleared to zero.
The interpretation of remaining arguments is module specific.

Using the Console Program 10–13

ls Command
>>ls [#]

The ls command displays a list of files present in a module
ROM. If no module is specified in the slot number option (#), a
list of files for all modules is displayed.
passwd Command
>>passwd [OPTIONS]
OPTIONS -s
-c

Set new console password
Clear console password

Use the passwd command to enter, set, or clear the console
password.
If the console prompt is R>, the use of console commands
is restricted, and you can use only the boot and passwd
commands (with no argument). Use the passwd command
with no arguments to gain unrestricted use of the console
commands. The console prompts for the password. If you enter
the proper password, the prompt changes to >>. The screen
does not display the password as it is being entered.
If the system prompt is >>, the use of console commands is
unrestricted. You can set the console password by using the -s
option. The console prompts for the new password twice. The
screen does not display the password as it is being entered.
Both password values must be the same. You can clear the
console password by using the -c option. When the console
password is cleared, console access is unrestricted.

10–14 Using the Console Program

printenv Command
>>printenv [evname]

The printenv command displays the value of environment
variables. If you specify the name of an environment variable,
the screen displays the value of that variable. Otherwise,
the screen displays the values of all environment variables.
See ‘‘Environment Variables’’ later in this chapter for more
information.
restart Command
>>restart

The restart command attempts to perform a software restart,
if a restart block has been set up in software. Refer to
the TURBOchannel firmware documentation for further
information.
script Command
>>script name

The script command accepts a short script entered at the
console. After a script has been entered, you can execute the
script by using the sh command.
To terminate a script entry, press Ctrl-d, enter a blank line, or
enter a line containing only a single period (.).
setenv Command
>>setenv evname value

The setenv command sets the value of an environment variable.
Note that you must enclose the command in double quotation
marks if value contains blanks. See ‘‘Environment Variables’’
later in this chapter for more information.

Using the Console Program 10–15

sh Command
>>sh [OPTIONS] [#/scriptname] [argument...]
OPTIONS -e
-b
-v
-S
-l

Exit on error
Branch to script
Verbose; echo to console
Suppress script-not-found errors
Loop

The sh, or shell, command activates a script. Replace # with
the slot number of the module that contains the script.
If you specify a script name for scriptname, the script is used as
the input stream. Otherwise, entries at the console are used as
the input stream, and a subshell is created. When a shell script
is activated, environment variable 0 is set to the script name,
1 is set to the first argument, 2 is set to the second argument,
and so on.
The -e option directs the shell to exit when an error occurs.
Normally, the shell ignores errors.
The -b option executes the script specified by scriptname instead
of creating a subshell.
The -v option causes the script to be echoed to the console when
it is executed. The default is no echo.
The -S option suppresses any error message if the script is
not found and causes the sh command to return a status that
indicates success.
The -1 option causes a script to be executed continuously until
a system reset occurs or Ctrl-c is pressed.

10–16 Using the Console Program

t Command
>>t [OPTIONS] #/testname [argument...]
OPTIONS -l

Loop

The t, or test, command runs module tests. Specify a test with
#/testname, where # is the slot number and testname is a
module-specific test name.
The -l option causes a test to be executed continuously until a
system reset occurs or Ctrl-c is pressed.
If executed from a script, the t command displays #/testname
on the system console as each test is run.
Tests specific to the system module are performed by Digital
service representatives.
To display the individual tests and test formats for a specific
module, type t#/ ?, where # is the slot number of the module.
You can also type test to invoke a script that performs a
thorough test of the entire system. Typing test is a shorthand
way of typing sh 7/test. If you type sh -l 7/test, the test script
will loop.
unsetenv Command
>>unsetenv evname

The unsetenv command deletes an environment variable.
See ‘‘Environment Variables’’ later in this chapter for more
information.

Using the Console Program 10–17

Environment Variables
Environment variables store system parameters, parameterize
scripts, and pass information to the operating system. Some
environment variables are retained in nonvolatile memory.
Others are lost when power is interrupted.
Console commands used for environment variables are
summarized in Table 10-2. Table 10-3 defines standard
environment variables that can be set by the user. Environment
variables are set by the system.
Table 10-2. Console Commands for Environment Variables
Command

Description

printenv
setenv variable value
unsetenv variable value

Displays the value of environment variables.
Sets the value of an environment variable.
Deletes an environment variable.

10–18 Using the Console Program

Table 10-3. Environment Variables Set by the User
boot1
console1

haltaction1

Specifies the default arguments for the boot command.
Controls the choice of the system console. If you specify any
value other than s, the system rom the console. If you specify
s, the system uses a terminal connected to the system module.
Setting console causes the system to immediately reconfigure
and initialize the system console.
Specifies system halt actions:
b causes the system to perform a boot command.
h causes the system to halt (accept command from the
console).
r causes the system to perform a restart operation or, if
that fails, to perform a boot operation.

more
osconsole

testaction1

Contains the screen size. If more is nonzero, the system
paginates all command output using the value as the page
size.
Contains the slot numbers of the console driver(s). If a tty
driver from slot x is used as the console, osconsole is set to
x. If a crt driver from slot y and a kbd driver from slot z are
used as the console, osconsole is set to y,z.
This environment variable is not a standard system
environment variable.
Controls the power-up self-test behavior:
t specifies a thorough (but slow) testing of the system.
q specifies a quicker but less thorough testing.
m specifies manufacturing-specific tests.

Contains the number of the module that contains the current
script. If no script is active, the base system module is
assumed.

1 Environment variables preserved in nonvolatile memory.

Additional environment variables can be set as implementation
specific side effects of various bootstrap and test procedures.

Using the Console Program 10–19

Console Autoconfiguration
When the console environment variable contains any value
other than s, the system autoconfigures the console terminal.
First the system searches all options for a crt driver. If a crt
driver is found, the system searches all option modules and
then the system module for a kbd driver. Because the system
module has a kbd driver, this search is always successful. When
the search for the kdb driver has completed successfully, the
crt and kbd drivers are loaded and the osconsole environment
variable is set to the slot numbers of the crt and kbd drivers,
respectively.
If a crt driver is not found, the tty driver is loaded from the
system module and the osconsole environment variable is set to
7, the slot number of the system module.

10–20 Using the Console Program

11
Moving the DECstation 5000 Model 200
Workstation
This chapter tells you how to take your workstation apart and
pack it in preparation for moving.

Moving the DECstation 5000 Model 200 Workstation 11–1

Dismantling Your Workstation
1.
2.
3.

4.
5.
6.

Follow the procedures for turning off your workstation
given in Chapter 8 of this guide.
Unplug all power cords from their power sources.
Disconnect any optional peripheral devices from the
system unit, and if you have more than one expansion box,
disconnect them from each other.
Disconnect the monitor, the mouse or tablet, and the
keyboard from the system unit.
Disconnect the keyboard and the mouse or tablet from the
connector block on the keyboard-mouse cable.
If you are on a network, disconnect your Ethernet cable
from the connector on the system unit.
Caution: Disconnecting the Ethernet cable at the network instead

of at the system unit interrupts network performance.

11–2 Moving the DECstation 5000 Model 200 Workstation

Packing Your Equipment
Pack each piece of equipment in the carton it came in. Use the
padding that came in the cartons to hold each item securely in
place.
Be sure to include the following in each carton:
Any cables, power cords, and terminators that came with
that device
Any documentation for that device

Reinstalling Your DECstation 5000 Model 200
To reinstall your workstation, follow the instructions in the
DECstation 5000 Model 200 Hardware Installation Guide.

Moving the DECstation 5000 Model 200 Workstation 11–3

Part IV
Appendixes

A
Equipment Specifications
This appendix lists the physical specifications, operating
conditions, and nonoperating conditions for components listed
here. For information about the BA42 storage expansion box,
the TZ30 tape drive, and the RX23 and RX33 floppy disk drives,
see Appendix A in the BA42 Storage Expansion Box Installation
Guide.
System unit
VR262 monitor
VR297 monitor
VR299 monitor
VRT19 monitor
LK201 keyboard
VSXXX-AA mouse
VSXXX-AB tablet
RZ55 hard disk drive
RZ56 hard disk drive
RZ57 hard disk drive
TK50Z tape drive
TLZ04 tape drive
RRD40 optical compact disc drive

Equipment Specifications A–1

Table A-1. System Unit Description

System unit

Weight

Height

Width

Depth

12.7 kg
(28 lb)

92 mm
(3.62 in)

509.5 mm
(20.06 in)

434.8 mm
(17.12 in)

Table A-2. System Unit Specifications
Input voltage
Input current
Power
– Frequency
– Heat dissipation

Adjust to 100 to 120 Vac to 220-240 Vac
5 amps at 100 to 120 Vac
2.4 amps at 220 to 240 Vac
50 to 60 Hz
359 watts maximum

Table A-3. System Unit Operating Conditions
Temperature range
Temperature change rate maximum
Relative humidity
Maximum wet-bulb temperature
Minimum dew-point temperature
Altitude

10° C to 40° C (50° F to 104° F)
11° C (20° F) per hour
20% to 80%, noncondensing
28° C (82° F)
2° C (36° F)
2400 m (8000 ft) at 36° C (96° F)

Table A-4. System Unit Nonoperating Conditions
Temperature range
Relative humidity
Maximum wet-bulb temperature
Minimum dew-point temperature
Altitude

A–2 Equipment Specifications

– 40° C to 66° C (– 40° F to 151° F)
10% to 95%, noncondensing
46° C (115° F), packaged
2° C (36° F)
4900 m (16,000 ft) at 36° C (96° F)

Table A-5. VR262 Monitor Description

Monitor

Weight

Height

Width

Depth

19.2 kg
(42 lb)

394 mm
(15.5 in.)

455 mm
(17.9 in.)

395 mm
(15.4 in.)

Table A-6. VR262 Monitor Specifications
External controls, switches, and
indicators
Display
– Cathode-ray Tube (CRT)

– Video input
– Display characteristics

Brightness
Contrast
Power switch
Power indicator
High resolution
Paper white phosphor
Spot size approximately 0.3 mm
High-efficiency antiglare treatment
Composite video, black negative
1.0V +/– 20% at 75 ohms
Maximum 1,024 pixels horizontal x 864 pixels
vertical, giving an approximate picture size of
334 mm x 282 mm

Horizontal rate timing nominal
– Frequency
– Front porth
– Sync pulse
– Back porch
– Blanking interval
– Active video time
– Horizontal period
– Pixels displayed

54.054 kHz
160 ns
1,850 ns
1,690 ns
3.70 s maximum
14.8 s
18.5 s
1,024

Vertical rate timing (nominal)
– Frequency
– Front porch

60 Hz
0 horizontal lines
(continued on next page)

Equipment Specifications A–3

Table A-6 (Cont.). VR262 Monitor Specifications
– Sync pulse
– Blanking interval
– Active video time
– Vertical period
– Lines displayed

3 horizontal lines
37 horizontal lines max
16.0 ms
16.67 ms
864

Power
– Power supply type
– AC input
– Power consumption

Transistor, switch type AC to DC converter
Switch-selectable
Approximately 65 watts

Fuse

100 to 120 Vac: 1 A
6.35 mm x 31.8 mm (.25 x 1.25 in.) slow blow
220 to 240 Vac: 1A
5 mm x 20 mm time lag

Table A-7. VR262 Monitor Operating Conditions
Temperature range
Temperature change rate
Relative humidity
Maximum wet-bulb temperature
Minimum dew-point temperature

10° C to 40° C (50° F to 104° F)
11° (20° F) per hour maximum
10% to 90%, noncondensing
28° C (82° F)
2° C (36° F)

Table A-8. VR262 Monitor Nonoperating Conditions
Temperature range
Relative humidity
Maximum wet-bulb temperature
Minimum dew-point temperature

A–4 Equipment Specifications

– 40° C to 66° C (– 40° F to 151° F)
10% to 95%, noncondensing
46° C (115° F), packaged
2° C (36° F)

Table A-9. VR297 Monitor Description

Monitor

Weight

Height

Width

Depth

29 kg
(64 lb)

406 mm
(16 in)

450 mm
(17.75 in)

Table A-10. VR297 Monitor Specifications
External controls, switches, and
indicators
Display
– Cathode-ray tube (CRT)

V-STAT, H-STAT, V-CENT
Contrast
Power switch and indicator

– Display characteristics

0.26 mm phosphor pitch aperture grill
16 in measured diagonally
90° deflection
Composite with sync on green
Red/blue: 0.714 Vp p at 75 Ohms
Green: 1.0 Vp p at 75 Ohms
1,024 pixels horizontal x 864 pixels vertical

Horizontal rate timing
– Frequency
– Front porch
– Sync pulse
– Back porch
– Blanking interval
– Active video

54.04 kHz
160 ns
1,850 s
1,680 s
3.70 s
14.8 s

Vertical rate timing
– Frequency
– Front porch
– Sync pulse
– Blanking interval
– Active video
– Vertical period

60 Hz
0 lines
3 lines
37 lines
16.0 ms
16.67 ms

– Video input

(continued on next page)

Equipment Specifications A–5

Table A-10 (Cont.). VR297 Monitor Specifications
Power
– Power supply type
– AC input
– Power consumption
Fuse

Transistor, switch-type AC to DC converter
Switch-selectable
Approximately 65 watts
100 to 120 V: 2.4 A/2.2A
6.35 mm x 31.8 mm (.25 x 1.25 in) slow blow
220 to 240 V:1.4 A/1.3A
5 mm x 20 mm time lag

Table A-11. VR297 Monitor Operating Conditions
Temperature range
Relative humidity
Maximum wet-bulb temperature
Minimum dew-point temperature

10° C to 40° C (50° F to 104° F)
10% to 90%, noncondensing
28° C (82° F)
2° C (36° F)

Table A-12. VR297 Monitor Nonoperating Conditions
Temperature range
Relative humidity
Maximum wet-bulb temperature
Minimum dew-point temperature

A–6 Equipment Specifications

– 40° C to 66° C (– 40° F to 151° F)
10% to 95%, noncondensing
46° C (115° F), packaged
2° C (36° F)

Table A-13. VR299 Monitor Description

Monitor

Weight

Height

Width

Depth

32 kg
(70 lb)

470 mm
(18.5 in)

506 mm
(19.9 in)

525 mm
(20.7 in)

Table A-14. VR299 Monitor Specifications
External controls, switches, and
indicators

Tilt range
Swivel range
Display
– Cathode-ray tube (CRT)

– Video input

– Display characteristics

Horizontal rate timing
– Frequency
– Front porch
– Sync pulse

Brightness
Contrast
Degauss
Power switch
Power indicator
Voltage selector switch
– 5° to +150°
+/– 200°
508 mm (20 in) diagonal
Color phosphor, medium persistence P22 RGB
phosphor
Color 0.32 mm pitch shadow mask
High-efficiency antiglare treatment; reflects less
than 1% of incident visible light
Composite video
Red: 0.7 Vpp/75 ohm
Green (with sync): 0.7 Vpp/75 ohm
Blue: 0.7 Vpp/75 ohm
1,024 pixels horizontal x 864 pixels vertical,
giving approximate picture size of 326 mm x
275 mm
Contrast 35 footlamberts (fl) maximum

54.054 kHz
159 ns
1,850 ns
(continued on next page)

Equipment Specifications A–7

Table A-14 (Cont.). VR299 Monitor Specifications
– Back porch
– Blanking interval
– Active video
– Horizontal period

1,680 ns
3.69 s maximum
14.8 s
18.5 s

Vertical rate timing
– Frequency
– Front porch
– Sync pulse
– Blanking interval
– Active video
– Vertical period

60 Hz
0 horizontal lines
3 lines
37 lines
16.0 ms
16.67 ms

Power
– AC input voltage (switch
selectable)
– Frequency
– Power consumption
Fuse

88-132/185-254 Vac
50/60 Hz
150 watts maximum
3.2 A for 120 V system
1.6 A for 240 V system

Table A-15. VR299 Monitor Operating Conditions
Temperature range
Relative humidity
Maximum wet-bulb temperature
Minimum dew-point temperature
Altitude

A–8 Equipment Specifications

10° C to 40° C (50° to 104° F)
10% to 95%, noncondensing
32° C ( 89° F)
2° C (36° F)
2,400 m (8,000 ft) at 36° C (96° F)

Table A-16. VR299 Monitor Nonoperating Conditions
Temperature range
Relative humidity
Maximum wet-bulb temperature
Minimum dew-point temperature
Altitude

– 40° C to 66° C (– 40° F to 150° F)
10% to 95%, noncondensing
46° C (115° F), packaged
2° C (36° F)
4,900 m (16,000 ft) at 36° C (96° F)

Equipment Specifications A–9

Table A-17. VRT19 Monitor Description

Monitor

Weight

Height

Width

Depth

39 kg
(75 lb)

480 mm
(18.72 in)

504 mm
(19.66 in)

474 mm
(18.49 in)

Table A-18. VRT19 Monitor Specifications
External controls, switches, and
indicators

Tilt range
Swivel range
Display
– Cathode-ray tube (CRT)

Brightness
Contrast
Degauss
Power switch
Power indicator
V-CENT, H-STAT, V-STAT
– 5° to +15°
90° total

– Display characteristics

Aperture grill Trinitron
0.31 mm triad pitch
90° deflection angle
3-color
Precision in-line gun
Composite green
1.0 Volt +/– 10% when terminated with 75 ohms
Sync amplitude on green signal between 27%
and 33% of total peak-to-peak voltage
1,280 x 1024 pixels

Horizontal rate timing
(4 pixel nibble clock timing)
– Frequency
– Front porch
– Sync pulse
– Back porch
– Blanking interval
– Active video
– Horizontal period

70.6621 kHz
267 ns
1,335.1 ns
1,869.1 ns
3.4712 s
10.6806 s
14.518 s

– Video input

(continued on next page)

A–10 Equipment Specifications

Table A-18 (Cont.). VRT19 Monitor Specifications
Vertical rate timing
(4 pixel nibble clock timing)
– Frequency
– Front porch
– Sync pulse
– Blanking interval
– Active video
– Vertical period

66.4743 Hz
3 horizontal lines
3 horizontal lines
39 horizontal lines
14.4915 ms
15.0434 ms

Power
– AC input voltage
– Frequency
– Power consumption

90-132/198-264 Vac
47 to 63 Hz
150 watts maximum

Table A-19. VRT19 Monitor Operating Conditions
Temperature range
Relative humidity
Maximum wet-bulb temperature
Minimum dew-point temperature
Altitude

10° C to 40° C (50° to 104° F)
10% to 95%
32° C ( 89° F)
2° C (36° F)
up to 10,000 ft

Table A-20. VRT19 Monitor Nonoperating Conditions
Temperature range
Relative humidity
Maximum wet-bulb temperature
Minimum dew-point temperature
Altitude

– 40° C to 66° C (– 40° F to 150° F)
10% to 95%
46° C (115° F), packaged
2° C (36° F)
12,780 m (50,000 ft)

Equipment Specifications A–11

Table A-21. LK201 Keyboard Description

Keyboard

Weight

Height

Width

Depth

2 kg
(4.5 lb)

51 mm1

533 mm
(21 in)

171 mm
(6.75 in)

(2 in)

1 Including attachable feet

Table A-22. LK201 Keyboard Specifications
Number of keys
Number of indicators
Language variations
Diagnostics
Cable
Baud rate
Power consumption
Power input
Electrical interface
Volume control
Keystroke timing

105
4 status LEDs
15
Self-testing and self-identifying with respect to
revision level but not with respect to language
variants
1.76 m (6 ft) uncoiled, detachable; 4-pin mmj
connector at both ends
4800
4.2 watts maximum
11.8 V +/– 6% @ 350 mA
EIA RS 423
8 levels, plus off; maximum 65 dba 1 ft above
keyboard
20 Msec minimum

Table A-23. LK201 Keyboard Operating Conditions
Temperature range
Relative humidity
Maximum wet-bulb temperature
Minimum dew-point temperature
Altitude

A–12 Equipment Specifications

10° C to 40° C (50° F to 104° F)
10% to 90%
28° C (82° F)
2° C (36° F)
2,400 m (8,000 ft) at 36° C (96° F)

Table A-24. LK201 Keyboard Nonoperating Conditions
Temperature range
Relative humidity
Maximum wet-bulb temperature
Minimum dew-point temperature
Altitude

– 40° C to 66° C (– 40° F to 151° F)
10% to 95%, noncondensing
46° C (115° F), packaged
2° C (36° F)
4,900 m (16,000 ft) at 36° C (96° F)

Equipment Specifications A–13

Table A-25. VSXXX-AA Mouse Description

Mouse

Weight

Height

Diameter

170 g
(0.37 lb)

40 mm
(1.57 in)

88 mm
(3.47 in)

Table A-26. VSXXX-AA Mouse Specifications
Baud rate
Cable length
Resolution
Tracking speed
Electrical interfaces
Operating modes
Tracking rate
Accuracy

Data format
Buttons
Diagnostics
Power requirements

4800
1.5 m (5 ft), shielded, 6 conductors and
terminals in a 7-pin micro-DIN-type connector
(male)
79 counts (200 counts/in)
73.5 cm (30 in/sec)
EIA RS-232-C or TTL
Incremental or polling
In incremental mode: 55 reports/sec
In polling mode: up to 95 reports/sec
+/– 3% 0 to 24.5 cm/sec (0 to 10 in/sec) any
direction
+/– 15% 24.5 to 49 cm/sec (10 to 20 in/sec) any
direction
+/– 30% 49 to 73.5 cm/sec (20 to 30 in/sec) any
direction
Delta binary
3
Self-testing and self-identifying with respect to
revision level
+5 V +/– 5% at 130 mA
– 12 V +/– 10% at 20 mA

Table A-27. VSXXX-AA Mouse Operating Conditions
Temperature range
Relative humidity
Maximum wet-bulb temperature
Minimum dew-point temperature
Altitude

A–14 Equipment Specifications

10° C to 40° C (50° F to 104° F)
10% to 90%, noncondensing
28° C (82° F)
2° C (36° F)
2,400 m (8,000 ft) at 36° C (96° F)

Table A-28. VSXXX-AA Mouse Nonoperating Conditions
Temperature range
Relative humidity
Maximum wet-bulb temperature
Minimum dew-point temperature
Altitude

– 40° C to 66° C (– 40° F to 151° F)
5% to 95%
46° C (115° F), packaged
2° (36° F)
4,900 m (16,000 ft) at 36° C (96° F)

Equipment Specifications A–15

Table A-29. VSXXX-AB Tablet Description

Tablet

Weight

Height

Width

Depth

3.2 kg
(7 lb)

20 mm
(8 in)

406 mm
(16 in)

412 mm
(16.2 in)

Table A-30. VSXXX-AB Tablet Specifications
Cable length
Active area
Resolution
Proximity (nominal)
Baud rate
Power requirements
Output connector (power and data)
Mating connector
Operating modes
Remote request
Incremental
Interfaces
Tracking rates

Puck
Stylus
Diagnostics

A–16 Equipment Specifications

1.5 m (5 ft), terminated in a 7-pin Micro-DINtype connector
275 mm x 275 mm (11 in x 11 in)
79 counts/cm (200 counts/in)
1.27 cm (5 in) cursor
.63 cm (.25 in) stylus
4800 or 9600 baud (software selectable)
+12 V dc +/– 10% at 0.3A
7–Pin Micro–DIN (male)
7–Pin Micro–DIN (female)
Incremental and polling
X–Y coordinate update and proximity report
when polled by host
Position reports are generated as long as cursor
is in motion. Reports are also generated when
the pushbuttons are pressed or released.
Serial, asynchronous, full-duplex, with EIA
RS-232-C signal levels
In incremental mode: 55, 72, 120 reports/sec
In polling mode: 50 reports/sec at 4800 baud
and 80 reports/sec at 9600 baud
4 buttons
2 buttons
Self-testing and self-identifying with respect to
revision level and with respect to the fact that
it is not a mouse. Diagnostics check electronics,
communication, tablet, and transducers

Table A-31. VSXXX-AB Tablet Operating Conditions
Temperature range
Relative humidity
Maximum wet bulb temperature
Minimum dew point temperature
Altitude

10° C to 40° C (50° F to 104° F)
20% to 80%, noncondensing
28° C (82° F)
2° C (36° F)
2400 m (8000 ft) at 36° C (96° F)

Table A-32. VSXXX-AB Tablet Nonoperating Conditions
Temperature range
Relative humidity
Maximum wet bulb temperature
Minimum dew point temperature
Altitude

–40° C to 66° C (–40° F to 151° F)
10% to 95%, noncondensing
46° C (115° F), packaged
2° C (36° F)
4900 m (16,000 ft) at 36° C (96° F)

Equipment Specifications A–17

Table A-33. RZ55 SCSI Hard Disk Drive Description

Internal drive

Weight

Height

Width

Depth

3.78 kg
(8.40 lb)

82.5 mm
(3.25 in)

146 mm
(5.75 in)

208 mm
(8.20 in)

Table A-34. RZ55 SCSI Hard Disk Drive Specifications
Capacity
– Per surface
– Per track
– Per block
Blocks
Spare blocks
Transfer rate to/from media
Bus asynchronous mode
Bus synchronous mode
Seek time
Average latency
Rotational speed
Start time
Stop time
Interleave
Bus latency
Heat dissipation
Recording density (bpi at ID)
Truck density (epi)
Tracks/surface (unformatted)
Read/write heads

A–18 Equipment Specifications

332.3 Mbytes
22.48 Mbytes
18,432
512 bytes
36 per track
649,040 per drive
8 per track
10,300 per drive
1.25 Mbytes/sec
1.5 Mbytes/sec
4 Mbytes/sec
<= 4 Msec track-to-track
<= 16 Msec average
<= 35 Msec maximum
8.3 Msec
3,600 RPM
20 sec maximum
20 sec maximum
1:1
600 sec maximum
32 watts maximum
21,231
1,075
1,224
15

Table A-35. RZ55 SCSI Hard Disk Drive Operating Conditions
Temperature range1
Relative humidity
Maximum wet-bulb temperature
Minimum dew-point temperature
Altitude

10° C to 55° C (50° F to 131° F)
20% to 80%, noncondensing
25.6° C (78° F)
2° C (36° F)
– 1,000 ft to 15,000 ft at 36° C (96° F)

1 Reduce maximum temperature by 1.8° C (3.24° F) for each 1,000-meter increase in altitude.

Table A-36. RZ55 SCSI Hard Disk Drive Nonoperating Conditions
Temperature range
Relative humidity
Maximum wet-bulb temperature
Minimum dew-point temperature
Altitude

– 40° C to 66° C (– 40° F to 151° F)
20% to 95%, packaged
46° C (115° F), packaged
2° C (36° F)
– 1,000 ft to 40,000 ft at 36° C (96° F)

Equipment Specifications A–19

Table A-37. RZ56 SCSI Hard Disk Drive Description

Internal drive

Weight

Height

Width

Depth

3.80 kg
(8.40 lb)

82.6 mm
(3.25 in)

146 mm
(5.75 in)

208 mm
(8.20 in)

Table A-38. RZ56 SCSI Hard Disk Drive Specifications
Capacity
– Per drive
– Per cylinder
– Per sector
– Per surface
– Per block
Blocks
Spare blocks
Spare cylinders
Transfer rate to/from media
Bus asynchronous mode
Bus synchronous mode
Seek time
Average latency
Interface
Recording density (bpi at ID)
Flux density (fci at ID)
Track density (tpi)
Tracks per surface (unformatted)
Tracks per surface (formatted)
Read/write heads
Disks
Time to process ECC (512 bytes)
Rotational speed

655.17 Mbytes
1,632
54
50.9 Mbytes
512 bytes
54 per track
11 per cylinder
20,316 per drive
3
1.875 Mbytes/sec
1.6 Mbytes/sec
4.0 Mbytes/sec
<=4 Msec track-to-track
<=16 Msec average
<=35 Msec maximum
8.3 Msec
SCSI
31,864
21,231
1,440
1,632
1,626
15
8
<=100 ms
3,600 RPM
(continued on next page)

A–20 Equipment Specifications

Table A-38 (Cont.). RZ56 SCSI Hard Disk Drive Specifications
Start time (maximum)
Stop time (maximum)
Interleave

20 sec maximum
20 sec maximum
1:1

Table A-39. RZ56 SCSI Hard Disk Drive Operating Conditions
Temperature range1
Relative humidity
Maximum wet-bulb temperature
Minimum dew-point temperature
Altitude

10° C to 55° C (50° F to 131° F)
8% to 80%, noncondensing
25.6° C (78° F)
2° C (36° F)
–1,000 to 15,000 ft at 36° C (96° F)

1 Reduce maximum temperature by 1.8° C (3.24° F) for each 1,000-meter increase in altitude.

Table A-40. RZ56 SCSI Hard Disk Drive Nonoperating Conditions
Temperature range
Relative humidity
Maximum wet-bulb temperature
Minimum dew-point temperature
Altitude

– 40° C to 66° C (– 40° F to 151° F)
8% to 95%, packaged
46° C (115° F), packaged
2° C (36° F)
– 1,000 to 40,000 ft at 36° C (96° F)

Equipment Specifications A–21

Table A-41. RZ57 SCSI Hard Disk Drive Description

Internal drive

Weight

Height

Width

Depth

3.8 kg
(8.4 lb)

82.6 mm
(3.25 in)

146 mm
(5.75 in)

208 mm
(8.20 in)

Table A-42. RZ57 SCSI Hard Disk Drive Specifications
Interface
Recording density (BPI at ID)
Flux density (FCI at ID)
Track density (TPI)
Tracks per surface (unformatted)
Tracks per surface (formatted)
Read/write heads
Disks
Time to process ECC (512 bytes)
Formatted storage capacity
- Per drive
- Per cylinder
- Per sector
- Per surface
- Per block
Blocks
Spare blocks
Spare cylinders
Transfer rate to/from media
Bus asynchronous mode
Bus synchronous mode
Seek time
Average latency
Rotational speed

SCSI
42,441
31,830
1,670
1,928
1,925
15
8
<=100 ms
1.0 gigabytes
539,640 bytes
35,976 bytes
66.7 Mbytes
512 bytes
71 per track
11 per cylinder
96,009 per drive
71
2.5 Mbytes/sec
1.6 Mbytes/sec
4.0 Mbytes/sec
<=4 Msec track-to-track
<=14.5 Msec average
<=33 Msec maximum
8.3 Msec
3,600 RPM
(continued on next page)

A–22 Equipment Specifications

Table A-42 (Cont.). RZ57 SCSI Hard Disk Drive Specifications
Start time (maximum)
Stop time (maximum)
Interleave

20 sec maximum
20 sec maximum
1:1

Table A-43. RZ57 SCSI Hard Disk Drive Operating Conditions
Temperature range1
Relative humidity
Maximum wet-bulb temperature
Minimum dew-point temperature
Altitude

10° C to 55° C (50° F to 131° F)
8% to 80%, noncondensing
25.6° C (78° F)
2° C (36° F)
– 1,000 to 15,000 ft at 36° C (96° F)

1 Reduce maximum temperature by 1.8° C (3.24° F) for each 1,000-meter increase in altitude.

Table A-44. RZ57 SCSI Hard Disk Drive Nonoperating Conditions
Temperature range
Relative humidity
Maximum wet-bulb temperature
Minimum dew-point temperature
Altitude

– 40° C to 66° C (– 40° F to 151° F)
8% to 95%, packaged
46° C (115° F), packaged
2° C (36° F)
– 1,000 to 40,000 ft at 36° C (96° F)

Equipment Specifications A–23

Table A-45. TK50Z Tape Drive Description

Expansion box

Weight

Height

Width

Depth

12.7 kg
(28 lb)

139.7 mm
(5.5 in)

323.8 mm
(12.75 in)

285.7 mm
(11.25 in)

Table A-46. TK50Z Tape Drive Specifications
Mode of operation
Media
Bit density
Number of tracks
Transfer rate (at host)
Type speed
Track format
Cartridge capacity
Power requirements
Input current
Power
Frequency
Heat dissipation

Streaming
12.77 mm (0.5 in), 600 ft magnetic tape
6,667 bits/in
22
360 Kbits/sec (45 Kbytes/sec)
75 in/sec
Serpentine
131 Mbytes, unformatted
+12 Vdc +/– 5%
+ 5 Vdc +/– 5%
2.4 amps at 100 to 120 Vac
1.3 amps at 220 to 240 Vac
160 watts
50 to 60 Hz
32 watts maximum

Table A-47. TK50Z Tape Drive Operating Conditions
Temperature range1
Relative humidity
Maximum wet-bulb temperature
Minimum dew-point temperature
Altitude

10° C to 40° C (50° F to 104° F)
10% to 80%, noncondensing
28° C (82° F)
2° C (36° F)
2,400 m (8,000 ft) at 36° C (96° F)

1 Reduce maximum temperature by 1.8° C (3.24° F) for each 1,000-meter increase in altitude.

A–24 Equipment Specifications

Table A-48. TK50Z Tape Drive Nonoperating Conditions
Temperature range
Relative humidity
Maximum wet-bulb temperature
Minimum dew-point temperature
Altitude

– 30° C to 66° C (– 22° F to 151° F)
10% to 95%, noncondensing
46° C (115° F), packaged
2° C (36° F)
9,140 mm (30,000 ft) at 36° C (96° F)

Equipment Specifications A–25

Table A-49. TLZ04 Tape Drive Description

Expansion box

Weight

Height

Width

Depth

12.7 kg
(28 lb)

102 mm
(4 in)

219.2 mm
(8.63 in)

285.7 mm
(11.25 in)

Table A-50. TLZ04 Tape Drive Specifications
Mode of operation
Drive interface
Media
Bit density
Transfer rate
Track format
Cassette capacity
Power requirements
Power consumption

Streaming and start/stop
SCSI
TLZ4X cassette tape
114 Mbits per square inch
156 Kbits/sec
Digital Data Storage (DDS)
1.2 Gbytes
100 to 120V, 1.6 amps
200 to 240V, 1.0 amps
230 watts

Table A-51. TLZ04 Tape Drive Operating Conditions
Temperature range1
Relative humidity
Altitude

10° C to 40° C (50° F to 104° F)
20% to 80%, noncondensing
0 km to 4.6 km (0 to 15,000 ft)

1 Reduce maximum temperature by 1.8° C (3.24° F) for each 1,000-meter increase in altitude.

Table A-52. TLZ04 Tape Drive Nonoperating Conditions
Temperature range
Relative humidity
Altitude

A–26 Equipment Specifications

– 45° C to 45° C
5% to 80%, noncondensing
0 km to 15.2 km (0 to 50,000 ft)

Table A-53. RRD40 Compact Disc Drive Description (Tabletop)

Expansion box

Weight

Height

Width

Depth

4.0 kg
(8.8 lb)

76.2 mm
(3 in)

231.7 mm
(9.125 in)

279.4 mm
(11 in)

Table A-54. RRD40 Compact Disc Drive Specifications (Tabletop)
Capacity per disc
Access time
Average latency
Average transfer rate
Initialization startup time
Heat dissipation

635 Mbytes
Maximum 1,000 Msec, including latency
Average 500 Msec
155 Msec at outer track
60 Msec at inner track
175.2 Kbytes/sec
Less than 6 sec
14 watts (typical)

Table A-55. RRD40 Compact Disc Drive Operating Conditions (Tabletop)
Temperature range1
Relative humidity
Maximum wet-bulb temperature
Minimum dew-point temperature
Altitude

10° C to 50° C (50° F to 122° F)
10% to 80%, noncondensing
28° C (82° F)
2° C (36° F)
3400 m (11,150 ft) at 36° C (96° F)

1 Reduce maximum temperature by 1.8° C (3.24° F) for each 1,000-meter increase in altitude.

Table A-56. RRD40 Compact Disc Drive Nonoperating Conditions (Tabletop)
Temperature range
Relative humidity
Maximum wet-bulb temperature
Minimum dew-point temperature
Altitude

4° C to 70° C (40° F to 158° F)
5% to 95%, noncondensing
46° C (115° F), packaged
2° C (36° F)
13,600 m (44,600 ft) at 36° C (96° F)

Equipment Specifications A–27

B
Part Numbers
This appendix lists the part numbers for the components of the
DECstation 5000 Model 200 Workstation.

Part Numbers B–1

Table B-1. Basic Components
Item

Order Number

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

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

B–2 Part Numbers

VR297-D4
VR299-DA
VR299-D3
VR299-D4
VRT19-DA
VRT19-D3
VRT19-D4
RZ55-E
29-27347-01
RZ56-E
29-27890-01
29-27889-01
RZ57-E
29-28158-01
29-28159-01
RRD40-FA
TK50Z-GA
TK50Z-G3
TLZ04-DA
VSXXX-AA
LK201

Table B-2. Cords, Cables, and Connectors
Item

Part Number

Order Number

Monitor-to-system-unit power cord (U.S.)
System unit or expansion box power cord
Expansion-box-to-expansion-box cable
Keyboard-mouse cable
Serial line cable
System-unit to expansion-box cable
ThickWire cable
ThinWire cable (12 ft)
ThinWire LAN assembly kit
Video cable, color, for use with color frame
buffer graphics module
Video cable, color, for use with twodimensional graphics accelerator module
Video cable, monochrome

17-00442-26
17-00606-10
17-01351-04
17-02640-01
—
17-02641-02
17-01321-01
17-01241-12
22-00112-01
17-02720-01

—
BN19P-K
BC19J-1E
—
BC16E-10
BC09D-06
BNE4C-02
BC16M-12
BC16T-12
—

17-02906-01

—

17-02878-01

—

Part Numbers B–3

Table B-3. Software Documentation
Item

Order Number

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

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

B–4 Part Numbers

Table B-4. Hardware Documentation
Item

Order Number

DECstation 5000 Model 200 User Documentation EK-384AA-DK
Kit
DECstation 5000 Model 200 Hardware Installation
EK-365AA-IN
Guide
DECstation 5000 Model 200 Hardware Operator’s
EK-366AA-OG
Guide
DECstation 5000 Model 200 Workstation Reference
EK-367AA-IC
Card
DECstation 5000 Model 200 Maintenance Guide
EK-370AA-MG
DECstation 5000 Model 200 Field Service Pocket
EK-371AA-PG
Guide
Components and Add-Ons
The RZ55 Disk Drive Service Manual
EK-RZ55D-SV
The RZ56 Disk Drive Subsystem Service Manual
EK-RZ56D-SV
The RZ57 Disk Drive Subsystem Service Manual
EK-RZ57D-SV
The RRD40 Owner’s Manual
EK-RRD40-OM
The TLZ04 Cassette Tape Drive Owner’s Manual
EK-TLZ04-OM
Installing and Using the LN03
EK-0LN03-UG
LN03 PLUS User Guide
EK-LN03S-UG
ScriptPrinter Installation Guide
EK-LN03R-UG
ScriptPrinter Operator Guide
EK-LN03R-OG
LA100 Letterwriter User Documentation Kit
EK-LW100-UG
Installing and Using the LA75 Companion Printer
EK-0LA75-UG
Installing and Using the LJ250/252 Companion
EK-LJ250-DK
Color Printer
TK50Z Tape Drive Subsystem Owner’s Manual
EK-LEP05-OM
TK50Z User’s Guide
EK-OTK50-UG
TK50Z Technical Manual
EK-OTK50-TM

Part Numbers B–5

C
Connector Pin Assignments
This appendix lists pin assignments for the following
connectors:
SCSI cable connectors
Keyboard and mouse or tablet
Communications
ThickWire Ethernet
Loopback
Power Supply
Modem loopback
Ethernet loopback

Connector Pin Assignments C–1

Table C-1. SCSI Cable Connector Pin Assignments
Pin

Signal

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

I/O
REQ
C/O
SEL
MSG
RST
ACK
BSY
GND
ATN
GND
RSVD
TERMPWR
RSVD
GND
GND
PARITY
DATA<7>
DATA<6>
DATA<5>
DATA<4>
DATA<3>
DATA<2>
DATA<1>
DATA<0>

25
24
23
22
21
20
19
18
17
16
15
14
13
12
11
10
9
8
7
6
5
4
3
2
1

GND
GND
GND
GND
GND
GND
GND
GND
GND
GND
GND
GND
NC
GND
GND
GND
GND
GND
GND
GND
GND
GND
GND
GND
GND

C–2 Connector Pin Assignments

Table C-2. Keyboard and Mouse or Tablet Connector Pin Assignments
Pin

Source

Signal

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

GND
KEY.TX
Keyboard
KEY.RX
+12V
GND
Mouse/Tablet MSE.RX
MSE.TX
GND
GND
NC
NC
NC
+5V
–12V
GND

Description

Ground
Keyboard transmitted data
Keyboard received data
Keyboard/tablet power
Ground
Mouse received data
Mouse transmitted data
Ground
Ground

Mouse power
Mouse power
Ground

Connector Pin Assignments C–3

Table C-3. Communications Connectors Pin Assignments
Source

Signal

CCITT1

EIA2

Description

1
2

KNO2

GND
TX

102
103

AB
BA

Modem/printer

104

4
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
12
13
14
15
16
17
18
19
20

KNO2
Modem/printer
Modem/printer
Modem/printer

RTS
CTS
DSR
GND
CD

105
106
107
102
109

CA
CB
CC
AB
CF

KNO2

DTR

108.2

Modem/printer

125

Signal ground
Modem transmitted data
Modem received
data
Request to send
Clear to send
Data set ready
Signal Ground
Carrier detector
Unconnected
Unconnected
Unconnected
Unconnected
Unconnected
Unconnected
Unconnected
Unconnected
Unconnected
Unconnected
Unconnected
Data terminal
ready
Unconnected
Ring indicator
Unconnected
Unconnected
Unconnected

21
22
23
24
25

1 Comite Consultatif International Telegraphique et Telephonique, an international consultative
committee that sets international communications standards
2 Electronic Industries Association

C–4 Connector Pin Assignments

Table C-4. ThickWire Ethernet Connector Pin Assignments
Pin

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

Source

XCVR
KNO2
XCVR
XCVR

XCVR
KNO2
XCVR
KNO2

Signal

Description

ACOL+
ATX+
GND
ARX+
GND
CTL+
GND
ACOL–
ATX–
GND
ARX–
+12V
GND
CTL–

Shield
Collision presence
Transmission
Ground
Reception
Power return
Control output
Ground
Collision presence
Transmission
Ground
Reception
Power
Ground
Control output

Table C-5. Summary of Loopback Connectors
Function

Communications
loopback connector
ThickWire loopback
connector
ThinWire T-connector
ThinWire terminator

Standard/
Unique

Part Number

Option Number

Standard

12-15336-13

H3200

Standard

12-22196-02

N/A

Standard
Standard

12-25869-01
12-26318-01

H8223
H8225

Connector Pin Assignments C–5

Table C-6. Power Supply Pin Assignments
Pin

Signal

Wire Gauge

1
2
3
4
5
6

+12 volt
Ground
–12 volt
Ground
POK
Warning

18
18
22
22
22
22

Table C-7. Modem Loopback Connector Pin Assignments
From
Pin No.

Signal

To
Pin No.

Signal

P4-2
P4-4
P4-6
P4-12
P4-18
P4-18
P4-18

TX2
RTS2
DSR2
SPDMI2
LLPBK2
LLPBK2
LLPBK2

P4-3
P4-5
P4-20
P4-23
P4-8
P4-22
P4-25

RX2
CTS2
DTR2
DSRS2
CI2
RI2
TMI2

Table C-8. Ethernet Loopback Connector Pin Assignments
From
Pin No.

Signal

To
Pin No.

Signal

Description

P6-3
P6-10
P6-13

TRA+
TRA–
PWR

P6-5
P6-12
P6-6

REC+
REC–
RET

Through capacitor
Through capacitor
Through resistor and LED

C–6 Connector Pin Assignments

Index
A
Adapter
for communication device, 7–6 to
7–7
Antistatic wrist strap, 4–3, 9–5

B
BA42 storage expansion box, 5–2, 5–4,
5–6, 5–7
connecting, 5–9 to 5–14
installing device, 5–17
on/off switch, 5–9, 5–15
SCSI switches, 5–7, 5–8
Brightness control, 2–12
icons, 8–3

C
Cable pin assignments, C–1 to C–6
cnfg command, 6–3
Color frame buffer module, 4–12
installing, 4–19
Communications connector, 1–5, 2–2 to
2–3, 7–2 to 7–8
Configuration displays, 5–15 to 5–16,
8–10 to 8–12
Connector block
for keyboard-mouse, 2–25 to 2–28
Connector pin assignments, C–1 to C–6

Connectors
communication, 7–2 to 7–8
monitors, 2–7 to 2–18
system unit, 2–2 to 2–4
Console autoconfiguration, 10–20
Console commands, 10–4 to 10–17
Console mode, 10–2
Contrast control, 2–8 to 2–12
icons, 8–3
Controls
monitors, 2–7 to 2–12
system unit, 2–2 to 2–3

D
Degauss button, 2–12
2D graphics accelerator module, 4–12
installing, 4–16
Diagnostic indicator lights
interpreting, 9–15 to 9–16

E
Environment variables, 10–18
Equipment specifications
hard disk drive (RZ55), A–18 to
A–19
hard disk drive (RZ56), A–20 to
A–21
hard disk drive (RZ57), A–22 to
A–23

Index–1

Equipment specifications (Cont.)
keyboard (LK201), A–12 to A–13
monitor (VR262), A–3 to A–4
monitor (VR297), A–5 to A–6
monitor (VR299), A–7 to A–9
monitor (VRT19), A–10 to A–11
mouse (VSXXX-AA), A–14 to A–15
optical compact disc drive (RRD40),
A–27
system unit, A–2
tape drive (TK50Z), A–24 to A–25
tape drive (TLZ04), A–26
VSXXX-AB tablet, A–16 to A–17
Error messages
interpreting, 9–4 to 9–14
Ethernet
connecting to a network, 6–4 to 6–11
loopback connector, 6–10
station address, 6–3
terminating ThinWire, 3–2 to 3–3
ThickWire, 3–4 to 3–5
ThickWire connector, 6–2
ThickWire loopback connector, 3–4
to 3–5
ThinWire, 3–2 to 3–3
ThinWire connector, 2–2 to 2–3, 6–2
Expansion boxes, 5–2 to 5–17
connecting, 5–9 to 5–14
turning on, 8–2

F
Floppy disk drives, 5–2

G
Graphics modules
installing, 4–16, 4–19
Gray-scale monitor
See VR262 gray-scale monitor

H
Hard disk drives, 5–2
SCSI switches, 5–7

Index–2

High 3D graphics accelerator module,
4–12
installing, 4–16

I
Icons
system unit, 2–4
ID number
SCSI switches, 5–7
Indicator lights
monitors, 2–7 to 2–12
system unit, 2–2 to 2–3

K
Keyboard, 1–5, 2–19 to 2–21
connecting to the system unit, 2–24
to 2–28
troubleshooting, 8–8
Keyboard-mouse cable assembly, 1–5,
2–25 to 2–28
Keyboard-mouse connector, 2–2 to 2–3

L
Low 3D graphics accelerator module,
4–12
installing, 4–16

M
Memory modules, 2–6
adding, 4–5 to 4–9
removing, 4–11
Mid 3D graphics accelerator module,
4–12
installing, 4–16
Monitors, 1–5, 2–7 to 2–18
connecting to system unit, 2–13 to
2–18
troubleshooting, 8–5
turning on, 8–3 to 8–5
Mouse, 1–5, 2–22 to 2–24
connecting to the system unit, 2–24
to 2–28

On/off switch
monitors, 2–8 to 2–14
system unit, 2–2 to 2–3
workstation, 8–2
Operating mode, 10–3
Option modules, 2–6
adding, 4–12 to 4–17
Options
memory, 4–5 to 4–11

Reset button, system unit, 2–2 to 2–3
RGB connectors, 2–8 to 2–18
RRD40 compact disc drive
SCSI switches, 5–7
RRD40 optical compact disc drive, 5–1,
5–2
connecting, 5–9 to 5–14
on/off switch, 5–9
SCSI switches, 5–8
RRD40 optical compact disc drive
expansion box
on/off switch, 5–15
RX23 floppy disk drive
See also Floppy disk drives
SCSI switches, 5–7
RX33 floppy disk drive
See also Floppy disk drives
SCSI switches, 5–7
RZ55/56/57 hard disk drive
See Hard disk drive
RZ55 hard disk drive
See Hard disk drives
RZ56 hard disk drive
See Hard disk drives
RZ57 hard disk drive
See Hard disk drives

P
Part numbers
basic components, B–1
cords, cables, and connectors, B–2
hardware, B–1 to B–3
Pin assignments
Ethernet loopback connector, C–6
I/O cover SCSI cable, C–2
keyboard/mouse/tablet connector,
C–3
modem loopback connector, C–6
printer/communications connector,
C–4
printer/console loopback connector,
C–5
summary of loopback connections,
C–5
ThickWire Ethernet connector, C–4
Power cables
monitor-to-system-unit, 2–29 to 2–31
storage device, 5–14
system unit, 2–29, 2–32
Power connector
monitors, 2–8 to 2–12
system unit, 2–2 to 2–3
Power indicator light
monitors, 2–8 to 2–12
Power requirements, 1–3
Power supply, 2–6
Power-up self-test, 9–3 to 9–14

S
SCSI cable lengths, 5–5
SCSI connector
system unit, 2–2 to 2–3
SCSI switch cover
removing, 5–6
SCSI switch settings, 5–6 to 5–8
Self-tests, 9–2 to 9–16
Static-sensitive materials, 4–3
Storage devices, 5–1 to 5–17
SCSI switches, 5–6 to 5–8
Storage options, 5–1
System self-test, 9–3
System unit, 1–5, 2–2 to 2–4

Index–3

System unit (Cont.)
power-up self-test, 8–7
self-test, 8–9
troubleshooting, 8–8
turning on, 8–6 to 8–8
System unit cover
removing and replacing, 2–4 to 2–6,
4–2 to 4–4

T
Tablet, 2–22
connecting to the system unit, 2–24
to 2–28
Tape drives, 5–2
connecting, 5–9 to 5–14
test command, 7–4, 7–8
Tests
self-tests, 9–2 to 9–16
ThickWire Ethernet, 3–4, 4–12
ThinWire Ethernet, 3–2
TJ50Z tape drive
on/off switch, 5–10
TK50Z tape drive, 5–2
See also Tape drives
connecting, 5–10
on/off switch, 5–9
SCSI switches, 5–7, 5–8
See also Tape drives, 5–1
TK50Z tape drive expansion box
on/off switch, 5–9, 5–15
TLZ04 tape drive, 5–2, 5–7
See also Tape drives
on/off switch, 5–9, 5–15
SCSI switches, 5–7, 5–8
See also Tape drives, 5–1
Troubleshooting, 9–1 to 9–25
basic hardware, 9–17 to 9–24
calling service representative, 9–25
keyboard, 8–8
monitor, 8–5
self-test, 7–5
system unit, 8–8
TZ30 tape drive, 5–7

Index–4

TZ30 tape drive (Cont.)
SCSI switches, 5–7
See also Tape drives, 5–1

V
Video cable, 1–5, 2–8 to 2–12, 2–14 to
2–18
Video option modules, 4–12
Voltage switch
monitors, 2–12
VR262 color monitor
See also Monitors
VR262 gray-scale monitor, 2–7 to 2–18
VR297 color monitor, 2–7 to 2–18
See Monitors
VR299 color monitor, 2–7 to 2–18
See also Monitors
VRT19 color monitor, 2–7 to 2–17
See also Monitors

W
Workstation
basic parts, 1–4 to 1–5
checking voltage requirements, 1–4
self-tests, 9–2 to 9–16
setting language, 8–7
site requirements, 1–2 to 1–3
testing, 8–9 to 8–12
turning off, 8–13
turning on, 8–2