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EK-4MMAX-OP-A01

March 1993

215 pages

Original

1.9MB

Document:	DECstation 5000 Model 260 Operator's Guide
Order Number:	EK-4MMAX-OP
Revision:	A01
Pages:	215
Original Filename:

OCR Text

Order Number: EK-4MMAX–OP. A01

DECstation 5000 Model 260
Operator’s Guide

March 1993
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
DESTA
MicroVAX

MicroVMS
PDP
ThinWire
TURBOchannel
ULTRIX
ULTRIX-32
UNIBUS

VAX
VAXBI
VAXcluster
VAXstation
VMS
VT

All other trademarks and registered trademarks are the property of their respective holders.

ML–S2087

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

xiii

Part I Introducing Your Workstation
1 The Main Components and How to Install Them
1.1
The System Unit . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
1.1.1
Front of the System Unit . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
1.1.2
Back of the System Unit . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
1.1.3
Icons on the System Unit . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
1.1.4
Setting Up the System Unit . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
1.2
The Monitor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
1.2.1
Turning Your Monitor On and Off . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
1.2.2
Positioning the Monitor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
1.2.3
Connecting the Monitor Video Cable . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
1.2.3.1
To Connect a Color Video Cable . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
1.2.3.2
To Connect a Gray-scale Video Cable . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
1.2.3.3
To Connect a Monochrome Video Cable . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
1.2.4
Connecting More Than One Monitor to a Workstation . . . . . .
1.2.5
Supplying Power to the Monitor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
1.2.5.1
To Connect the Monitor to the System Unit Power
Outlet . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
1.2.5.2
To Connect the Monitor to an Independent Power
Outlet . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
1.3
Input Devices . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
1.3.1
The Keyboard . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
1.3.1.1
The LK401 Keyboard . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
1.3.1.2
Connecting the Keyboard to the System Unit . . . . . . . . .
1.3.1.3
Adjusting the Keyboard Feet . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
1.3.2
Pointing Devices . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
1.3.2.1
The Mouse and Tablet . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
1.3.2.2
Dial and Button Boxes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

1–2
1–3
1–4
1–6
1–6
1–9
1–9
1–10
1–11
1–12
1–14
1–16
1–17
1–18
1–19
1–21
1–23
1–23
1–23
1–25
1–29
1–30
1–30
1–33

iii

1.4

Adjusting and Positioning Your Workstation for Comfort . . . . . . .

1–34

2 The Environment
2.1
2.1.1
2.1.2
2.1.3
2.2
2.2.1

Site Requirements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Temperature and Humidity . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Cleanliness . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Interference . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Electrical Requirements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Voltage . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

2–1
2–1
2–2
2–2
2–2
2–3

3 Starting and Testing
3.1
3.2
3.3
3.3.1
3.3.2
3.3.3
3.4
3.5
3.6
3.7

Turning On Your Workstation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Setting the Keyboard Language . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Testing Your Workstation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Using the Quick or Full Self-Test . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
To Run the Full Self-Test . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
If a Self-Test Fails . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Checking the Configuration Display . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Stopping the Workstation Without Turning It Off . . . . . . . . . . . .
Turning Off the Workstation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Installing Workstation Software . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

3–2
3–5
3–6
3–6
3–7
3–7
3–7
3–8
3–9
3–10

4 Moving Your Workstation
4.1
4.2

Dismantling Your Workstation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Packing Your Equipment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

4–1
4–2

Part II External Additions to Your Workstation
5 External Storage Devices
5.1
5.2
5.3
5.4
5.5
5.6
5.6.1
5.6.2
5.7

Available External Options . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Storage Devices You Can Add to Your Workstation . . . . . . . . . . .
Rules for Connecting Storage Devices . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Installing External Storage Devices . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
SCSI Cable Length . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Checking and Setting SCSI ID Numbers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
To Check the SCSI ID . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
To Set the SCSI ID . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Testing External Storage Devices . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

5–2
5–2
5–4
5–5
5–16
5–17
5–17
5–17
5–19

5.8
5.9

Removing an External Storage Device . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Installing a Drive in an Expansion Box . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

5–21
5–21

6 Optional Network Connections
6.1
6.2
6.3
6.4
6.5
6.5.1
6.5.2
6.5.3

Locating Your Workstation Ethernet Connector . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Installing and Removing an Ethernet Loopback Connector . . . . .
Operating the Ethernet Connector Sliding Lock . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Finding Your Ethernet Station Address . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Connecting the Workstation to an Ethernet Network . . . . . . . . .
To Connect a ThickWire Ethernet Cable . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
To Connect a ThinWire Ethernet Adapter . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
To Connect a Twisted-Pair Ethernet Adapter . . . . . . . . . . . . .

6–2
6–2
6–3
6–7
6–8
6–9
6–12
6–16

7 External Communications Options
7.1
7.2
7.3
7.4

External Communications Options . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Types of Connectors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Installing a Device with a 25-Pin Connector . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Installing a Device with a Modular Connector . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

7–2
7–3
7–4
7–7

Part III Internal Parts and Additions to Your Workstation
8 Inside the System Unit
8.1
8.2
8.2.1
8.2.2
8.2.3
8.2.4
8.2.5
8.2.6
8.3
8.3.1
8.3.2
8.4

Available Internal Options . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Main Parts of the System Unit . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
The Base System Module . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Memory Modules . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Nonvolatile Random-Access Memory (NVRAM) Module . . . . .
The CPU Module . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
TURBOchannel Option Modules . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
The Power Supply . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Removing and Replacing the System Unit Cover . . . . . . . . . . . . .
To Remove the Cover from the System Unit . . . . . . . . . . . . .
To Replace the Cover on the System Unit . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Using the Antistatic Wrist Strap . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

8–2
8–2
8–3
8–3
8–4
8–4
8–4
8–5
8–6
8–6
8–7
8–8

9 Installing Internal Option Modules
9.1
9.1.1
9.1.2
9.1.3
9.2
9.3
9.3.1
9.3.2
9.3.3
9.4

Installing and Removing Memory . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
To Install Memory Modules . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
To Test Memory Modules . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
To Remove Memory Modules . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Installing and Removing a PrestoServe/NVRAM Module . . . . . . .
Replacing CPU Modules . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
To Remove a CPU Module . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
To Install a New CPU Module . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
To Test the CPU Module . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Installing and Removing TURBOchannel Option Modules . . . . . .

9–2
9–3
9–7
9–8
9–11
9–13
9–13
9–19
9–23
9–24

Part IV Managing Your Workstation
10 Using the Console Commands
10.1
Console and Operating Modes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
10.2
Using Console Mode . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
10.2.1
To Enter Console Mode . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
10.2.2
Console Prompts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
10.3
Installing a Terminal as an Alternate System Console . . . . . . . .
10.3.1
To Install a Terminal as a System Console . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
10.3.2
To Activate the Terminal as the System Console . . . . . . . . . .
10.3.3
To Make Your Workstation Monitor the System Console . . . .
10.4
Rules for Console Commands . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
10.5
Conventions Used . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
10.6
Console Commands . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
10.6.1
?...............................................
10.6.2
boot . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
10.6.3
cat . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
10.6.4
cnfg . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
10.6.5
d. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
10.6.6
e...............................................
10.6.7
erl . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
10.6.8
go . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
10.6.9
init . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
10.6.10
ls . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
10.6.11
passwd . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
10.6.12
printenv . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
10.6.13
restart . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
10.6.14
script . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
10.6.15
setenv . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
vi

10–2
10–2
10–3
10–3
10–4
10–4
10–6
10–7
10–8
10–9
10–10
10–11
10–11
10–12
10–13
10–17
10–18
10–18
10–19
10–19
10–19
10–19
10–20
10–21
10–21
10–21

10.6.16
sh . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
10.6.17
t...............................................
10.6.18
unsetenv . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
10.7
Environmental Variables . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

10–21
10–22
10–22
10–23

11 Troubleshooting
11.1
11.2
11.3
11.4
11.5
11.6

Where to Look in This Manual for Help . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Checking the LED Display . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Is It Connected Properly? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Using a Full System Self-Test . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Interpreting Self-Test Messages . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Contacting Your Customer Support Center . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

11–2
11–2
11–6
11–15
11–16
11–20

Part V Appendixes
A Equipment Specifications
A.1

DECstation 5000 Model 260 System Unit Equipment
Specifications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

A–1

B Connector Pin Assignments
C Regulatory Information for the United Kingdom
C.1
C.2
C.3
C.4
C.5

Service Requirements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Approvals for Digital Circuits . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Host Independent Approvals . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Host Power Rating . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Apparatus Between the Approved Apparatus and a Digital
Circuit (PTT) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

C–2
C–2
C–5
C–6
C–6

Index

vii

Figures
1–1
1–2
1–3
1–4
1–5
1–6
1–7
1–8
1–9
1–10
1–11
1–12
1–13
1–14
1–15
1–16
1–17
1–18
1–19
1–20
1–21
1–22
1–23
1–24
1–25
1–26
1–27
2–1
3–1
3–2
5–1

viii

Front of the system unit . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Back of the system unit . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Icons on the system unit . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Attaching a ThickWire Ethernet loopback connector . . . . . . .
Connecting the power cord to the system unit . . . . . . . . . . . .
Turning off your monitor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Turning on your monitor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Video cable assemblies . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Connecting a video cable assembly to a color monitor . . . . . .
Connecting a color video cable to the system unit . . . . . . . . .
Connecting a video cable assembly to a gray-scale
monitor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Connecting a grey-scale video cable assembly to the system
unit . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Connecting a video cable assembly to a monochrome
monitor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Connecting a monochrome video cable assembly to the
system unit . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Monitor-to-system-unit power cable . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Connecting the monitor-to-system-unit power cable . . . . . . . .
Monitor power cord . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Connecting a separate monitor power cord . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
LK401 keyboard . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Keyboard-mouse cable assembly . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Connecting the keyboard-mouse cable assembly to the
system unit . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Connecting the keyboard cable to the connector block . . . . . .
Positioning the connector block . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Raising and lowering the hinged feet on the keyboard . . . . . .
Pointing devices . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Connecting the mouse or tablet . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Dial and button boxes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Voltage Labels . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Turning on the system unit . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Halt button and system unit on/off switch . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Some typical expansion boxes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

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

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

Power switch in the off position . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
System-unit-to-expansion-box cable . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Connecting the system-unit-to-expansion-box cable to the
system unit . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Connecting the system-unit-to-expansion-box cable to
expansion box . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
SCSI box-to-box cable . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Connecting an additional non-TCE expansion box to the first
box . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
TCE-to-expansion-box cable . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Connecting the TCE to the expansion box . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Connecting a SCSI drive terminator . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Connecting the power cord . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Installing and removing an Ethernet loopback connector . . .
Unlocking the Ethernet sliding lock . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Locking the Ethernet sliding lock . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
ThickWire Ethernet cable . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Connecting a ThickWire Ethernet cable to the system
unit . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Parts used to connect a workstation to a ThinWire
network . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Connecting a ThickWire cable to the ThinWire adapter . . . . .
Attaching a T-connector . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Attaching a T-connector terminator . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Parts used to connect a workstation to a twisted-pair
Ethernet network . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Connecting the ThickWire-to-twisted-pair-adapter . . . . . . . . .
Connecting the twisted-pair cable to the twisted-pair
adapter . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Communications connectors on the system unit . . . . . . . . . . .
Communications device connectors and an adapter . . . . . . . .
Connecting a communications device with a 25-pin
connector . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Using an adapter to connect a communications device with a
modular connector . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Inside of the system unit enclosure . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Removing and replacing the system unit cover . . . . . . . . . . .
Using an antistatic wrist strap . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

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

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

Releasing the memory module bracket . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Memory module . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Memory slots inside the system unit . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Releasing the memory module bracket . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Removing a memory module . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Removing the Cover . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Attaching the Wrist Strap . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Attaching the Rivets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Removing the Old CPU . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Inserting the Grounding Clips . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Adding the New CPU . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Replace the Medallion . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Add the Labels . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Replace the Cover . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Return the Old CPU . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Connecting a VT320 terminal to the system unit . . . . . . . . . .
Indicator light and LED display . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
System Module J-Connector Locations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

9–4
9–5
9–6
9–9
9–10
9–14
9–15
9–16
9–17
9–18
9–19
9–20
9–21
9–22
9–23
10–5
11–3
C–4

Conventions Used in This Guide . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Connectors, Controls, LED Display, and Lights on the
System Unit . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
SCSI Cable Lengths . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Usual SCSI ID Assignments for External Drives . . . . . . . . . .
SCSI ID Switch Settings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Device Codes for Different Types of SCSI Drives . . . . . . . . . .
Console Commands . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Module Codes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
SCSI Device Codes and Descriptors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Console Commands for Environmental Variables . . . . . . . . . .
Environmental Variables Set by User . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Interpreting the LED Codes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Solutions to Common Problems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Self-Test Error Messages for the Base System Slot . . . . . . . .
System Unit Description . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

xiv

Tables
1
1–1
5–1
5–2
5–3
5–4
10–1
10–2
10–3
10–4
10–5
11–1
11–2
11–3
A–1

1–5
5–16
5–17
5–18
5–20
10–10
10–14
10–17
10–23
10–24
11–4
11–6
11–16
A–1

A–2
A–3
A–4
B–1
B–2
B–3
B–4
B–5
B–6
B–7
B–8
C–1
C–2
C–3

System Unit Operating Conditions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
System Unit Nonoperating Conditions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Acoustics—Preliminary Declared Values per ISO 9296 and
ISO 7779 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
SCSI Cable Connector Pin Assignments . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Keyboard and Mouse or Tablet Connector Pin
Assignments . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Communications Connectors Pin Assignments . . . . . . . . . . . .
ThickWire Ethernet Connector Pin Assignments . . . . . . . . . .
Power Supply Pin Assignments . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Modem Loopback Connector Pin Assignments . . . . . . . . . . . .
Ethernet Loopback Connector Pin Assignments . . . . . . . . . . .
Summary of Loopback Connectors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
PMBA-AA Service Requirements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Clearance and Creepage Specs for PMBA-AA . . . . . . . . . . . .
Module Power Rating for PMBA-AA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

A–2
A–2
A–2
B–2
B–3
B–4
B–5
B–6
B–6
B–6
B–7
C–2
C–5
C–6

Preface
This guide explains how to operate the hardware components of your
DECstation 5000 Model 260 Series workstation. It discusses the following
topics:
In Part I, ‘‘Introducing Your Workstation,’’
•

The parts that make up the basic DECstation 5000 Model 260 Series
workstation

•

The function of each workstation component

•

How to set up each part of your workstation

•

How to adjust your workstation hardware for your comfort

•

The site and voltage requirements for your workstation

•

How to power up, test, and shut down your workstation

•

How to read the configuration displays and interpret the power-up and
system self-test results

•

How to dismantle your workstation in preparation for moving

In Part II, ‘‘External Additions to Your Workstation,’’
•

How to connect external storage devices to your workstation

•

How to connect your workstation to the Ethernet network

•

How to connect external communications options to your workstation

In Part III, ‘‘Internal Parts and Additions to Your Workstation,’’
•

What each internal component of the system unit does

•

The internal components you can add to improve workstation performance

•

How to open and close the system unit

•

How to use an antistatic wrist strap

xiii

•

How to install and remove internal options

In Part IV, ‘‘Managing Your Workstation,’’
•

How to use console and operating modes

•

How to install and use a terminal as a separate system console

•

How to use console commands

•

How to diagnose and solve basic hardware problems

In Part V, ‘‘Appendixes,’’
•

Specifications for your workstation components

•

Pin assignments for your workstation cables and connectors

•

Regulatory information for the UK

Table 1 Conventions Used in This Guide

xiv

Convention

Use

Monospace type

Anything that appears on your monitor is set in
monospace type like this.

Boldface type

Anything that you are asked to type is set in boldface
type like this.

Caution note

Information that protects the workstation from being damaged
is set off in a caution note.

Warning note

Information that protects you from being harmed is set off in a
warning note.

Part I
Introducing Your Workstation

1
The Main Components and
How to Install Them
This chapter tells you about the main parts of your workstation and how to
install the following:
•

System unit

•

Monitor

•

Keyboard and input devices

•

Mouse and other pointing devices

It also explains how to:
•

Position your workstation

The Main Components and How to Install Them 1–1

The Main Components and How to Install Them
1.1 The System Unit

1.1 The System Unit
The system unit is the central component of your workstation. It contains
the memory, central processing unit (CPU), power supply, and connectors by
which you attach the monitor, keyboard and mouse, and all other parts of your
workstation.
The system unit has a built-in small computer systems interface (SCSI)
connector to which you can attach multiple external storage devices (tape, disk,
and compact disc drives). It also has a built-in ThickWire Ethernet connector
to connect your workstation to an Ethernet network. You can connect
terminals, printers, plotters, or modems to its two synchronous/asynchronous
RS232 serial communications connectors.
There are three TURBOchannel option slots on the system unit in which you
can install TURBOchannel option modules. TURBOchannel option modules
provide the hardware needed to connect and operate various workstation
additions and options. The basic workstation comes with a graphics option
module to which you attach the workstation monitor. The graphics option
module can be installed in one of the TURBOchannel option slots on the
system unit or in a TURBOchannel extender unit connected to the system unit.
The following sections describe the front and back of the system unit and how
to install it.
For information about replaceable modules inside the system unit, refer to
Chapter 8.

1–2 The Main Components and How to Install Them

The Main Components and How to Install Them
1.1 The System Unit

1.1.1 Front of the System Unit
The front of the system unit has a green power indicator light. The light glows
steadily when the system is operating correctly.
Figure 1–1 Front of the system unit

d i g
i t a
l

DEC stat
ion

5000

Power
indicator
light

WS3PO014

The Main Components and How to Install Them 1–3

The Main Components and How to Install Them
1.1 The System Unit

1.1.2 Back of the System Unit
The back of the system will appear as shown in Figure 1–2. Table 1–1 explains
each item.
Figure 1–2 Back of the system unit

3
2

1
PMAG-C

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

1
2

V~100-12
0/220-24
0
A 7.9/4.2
Hz 50-60
W 359

14
13
12

11
10
9
8

1. TURBOchannel option slot 0
with graphics module installed
2. TURBOchannel option slot 1
3. TURBOchannel option slot 2
4. Cover-release screw
5. Monitor-to-system-unit power connector
6. On/off switch
7. System unit power connector

Keyboard-mouse connector
Communications connector 2
Communications connector 3
Halt button
Diagnostic LED display
Base system ThickWire Ethernet
connector
14. Base system SCSI connector
8.
9.
10.
11.
12.
13.

WS3PO013

1–4 The Main Components and How to Install Them

The Main Components and How to Install Them
1.1 The System Unit
Table 1–1 Connectors, Controls, LED Display, and Lights on the System Unit
Item

Function

TURBOchannel option slots 0, 1,
and 2

The points at which optional TURBOchannel
hardware can connect to the system unit.

Cover-release screw

A captive screw that allows the cover to be removed
from the system unit.

Monitor-to-system-unit power
connector

The point at which power can pass from the system
unit to the monitor.

On/off switch

The switch that turns the system unit on and off.
Pressing the | turns the system unit on. Pressing
the O turns it off.

System-unit power connector

The point at which power from the power source
reaches the system unit.

Keyboard-mouse connector

The point at which the keyboard-mouse cable
connects the keyboard and mouse or tablet to the
system unit.

Communications connectors

The points at which communications devices, such
as modems and printers, connect to the system unit.

Halt button

The switch that stops the worksystem software and
puts the workstation in console mode.

Diagnostic LED display

Eight small red lights that indicate an error code
by means of the on-off pattern displayed when a
system failure occurs.

Base system ThickWire Ethernet
connector

The point at which Ethernet network cables connect
to the system unit.

Base system SCSI connector

The point at which external SCSI storage devices
connect to the base system.

Power indicator light

The light on the front of the system unit that
indicates whether the unit is on or off.

The Main Components and How to Install Them 1–5

The Main Components and How to Install Them
1.1 The System Unit

1.1.3 Icons on the System Unit
The connectors on the back of the system unit are labeled with icons to remind
you of their functions.
Figure 1–3 Icons on the system unit

Ethernet

Communications

Keyboard

Reset button

Mouse

SCSI
WS3PO015

1.1.4 Setting Up the System Unit
Before setting up the system unit, check the voltage requirement labels printed
on the back of the system unit (or check for a yellow voltage label covering the
system unit power connector).
Caution
Be sure you know the voltage requirements for the device. Connecting
a device to a power source that does not meet the voltage requirements
of that device can damage the device.

1. Place the system unit flat on a level surface.
Caution
Do not stand the system unit on its side. This blocks the cooling vents
and can damage the unit by causing it to overheat.

1–6 The Main Components and How to Install Them

The Main Components and How to Install Them
1.1 The System Unit
2. Install a ThickWire Ethernet loopback connector on the base system
Ethernet connector and on each Ethernet connector you may have in a
TURBOchannel option slot. Hold the loopback connector so that the widest
part of the metal rim on the connector is on top. Then firmly press the
connector onto the system unit Ethernet connector. (See Chapter 6 for
information on connecting your workstation to an Ethernet network.)
Figure 1–4 Attaching a ThickWire Ethernet loopback connector

PMAG-C

0
1
2

3
2

ThickWire Ethernet
loopback connector

Base system
ThickWire Ethernet
connector
WS3PO030

The Main Components and How to Install Them 1–7

The Main Components and How to Install Them
1.1 The System Unit
3. Connect the appropriate end of the system unit power cord to the system
unit power connector.
Do not plug the power cord into a power outlet until you have installed all
workstation components.
Caution
Installing workstation components while the system unit is connected
to a power source may damage the components if the power is on.

Figure 1–5 Connecting the power cord to the system unit

PMAG-C

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

1
2

V~100-12
0/2
A 7.9/4.2

System unit
power connector

Power cord

WS3PO084

1–8 The Main Components and How to Install Them

The Main Components and How to Install Them
1.2 The Monitor

1.2 The Monitor
Your workstation comes with a color or a monochrome monitor for use with
your worksystem software and as a system console. You can also connect
a terminal to your workstation for use as an alternate system console (see
Chapter 10 for details).
The monitors shown in the illustrations for this guide are examples of several
different monitors you can order for your workstation. The exact position of
the on/off switch, connectors, and controls will vary depending on the monitor
you order.
The video connector to which the monitor attaches can be located in any one
of the TURBOchannel option slots on the system unit, or in a TURBOchannel
extender (TCE) unit, connected to the system unit. The examples used here
assume that the video connector is in TURBOchannel option slot 0.

1.2.1 Turning Your Monitor On and Off
Before connecting the monitor, make sure that the monitor and system unit
power switches are in the off position, and that neither unit is plugged into a
power source.
Caution
Do not connect or disconnect your monitor while power is turned on.
This can damage the monitor.

Figure 1–6 shows how to turn the monitor power off with three different types
of switches.

The Main Components and How to Install Them 1–9

The Main Components and How to Install Them
1.2 The Monitor
Figure 1–6 Turning off your monitor

Press the 0 on
this type of switch.

Press and release this
type of switch.

Press this type
of switch so it is out.
WS3PO017

You can turn your monitor on and off independently, or install it so that it goes
on and off when you turn the main workstation power on or off (for details, see
‘‘Section 1.2.5’’). Figure 1–7 explains how to set the monitor power switch to
the on position.
Figure 1–7 Turning on your monitor

Press the I on

Press and release this

Press this type

this type of switch.

type of switch.

of switch in.

WS3PO057

1.2.2 Positioning the Monitor
Place the monitor next to or on top of the system unit if you intend to connect
its power cord to the system unit; see Section 1.2.5 for other options.
Caution
Do not place 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, which can interfere with its
performance.

1–10 The Main Components and How to Install Them

The Main Components and How to Install Them
1.2 The Monitor

1.2.3 Connecting the Monitor Video Cable
You connect one of the following monitor video cables to your monitor and to
the system unit.
Figure 1–8 Video cable assemblies

Slotted signal
cable connector

Threaded video
cable connector

For a monochrome monitor

3-pin connector

3-pin connector
Signal cable
connector

RGB connectors

For a color monitor

For a gray-scale monitor
WS3PO016

The Main Components and How to Install Them 1–11

The Main Components and How to Install Them
1.2 The Monitor
1.2.3.1 To Connect a Color Video Cable
1. The color video cable divides into red, green, and blue (RGB) cables at
one end. Match the colors of these cables with the round RGB connectors
on the monitor (labeled R, G, and B for red, green, and blue). The small
collars on the cable connectors have two slots that fit over corresponding
pins on the monitor connectors.
If your monitor has two sets of round RGB connectors, use the ones labeled
VIDEO IN. The monitor will have no display if you use the other set of
connectors.
Figure 1–9 Connecting a video cable assembly to a color monitor

Turn the signal cable
connectors to your
right until they
slide forward and

lock into place.

Monitor video connectors

WS3PO019

1–12 The Main Components and How to Install Them

The Main Components and How to Install Them
1.2 The Monitor
2. Connect the 3-pin cable connector to the workstation video connector in the
system unit or TCE box.
Figure 1–10 Connecting a color video cable to the system unit

System unit video connector in
TURBOchannel option slot 0

1. Position the 3-pin cable
connector so the widest
part of the connector
is on top.

PMAG-C

0
1
2

2. Turn the screws
to your right to hold
the connector in place.

WS3PO073

The Main Components and How to Install Them 1–13

The Main Components and How to Install Them
1.2 The Monitor
1.2.3.2 To Connect a Gray-scale Video Cable
1. Attach the round cable connector to the monitor.
2. Attach the connector block to the back of the monitor.
Figure 1–11 Connecting a video cable assembly to a gray-scale monitor

Monitor video
connector

1. Press the round cable
connector onto the
video connector
and turn the round
cable connector to
your right until it
slides forward and
locks into place.
2.

Attach the
connector
block here.

3. Turn the large plastic
screw to your right to
hold the connector block

Connector block

in place against the monitor.
WS3PO020

1–14 The Main Components and How to Install Them

The Main Components and How to Install Them
1.2 The Monitor
3. Attach the 3-pin cable connector to the system unit video connector in the
system unit or TCE box.
Figure 1–12 Connecting a grey-scale video cable assembly to the system
unit

System unit video connector in
TURBOchannel option slot 0

1. Position the 3-pin cable
connector so the widest
part of the connector
is on top.

PMAG-C

0
1
2

2. Turn the screws
to your right to hold
the connector in place.

WS3PO073

The Main Components and How to Install Them 1–15

The Main Components and How to Install Them
1.2 The Monitor
1.2.3.3 To Connect a Monochrome Video Cable
1. Attach the slotted cable connector to the monitor video connector.
Figure 1–13 Connecting a video cable assembly to a monochrome monitor

Align the slots on the
cable connector with
the pins on the monitor
video connector.

Press the slotted cable
connector onto the
monitor connector and
turn the slotted cable
connector to your right
until it slides forward
and locks into place.
Monitor video
connector
WS3PO072

1–16 The Main Components and How to Install Them

The Main Components and How to Install Them
1.2 The Monitor
2. Attach the threaded cable connector to the video connector in the system
unit or TCE box.
Figure 1–14 Connecting a monochrome video cable assembly to the system
unit

Press the threaded
cable connector onto
the video connector
and turn the threaded
connector to your right
as far as it will go.
0
PMAG-A

1
2

System unit
video connector in
TURBOchannel
option slot 0
WS3PO071

1.2.4 Connecting More Than One Monitor to a Workstation
You can connect an additional monitor for each TURBOchannel graphics option
module you may have installed. However, all graphics option modules must be
the same type and your workstation must be running an advanced installation
of ULTRIX version 4.2 or higher. No matter how many monitors you attach to
your workstation, you can use only one keyboard and mouse or other pointing
device. The monitor that displays the console text is the monitor connected
to the lowest numbered TURBOchannel slot, regardless of the number of
monitors on the system.
To connect additional monitors to your workstation, follow the instructions
for connecting a single monitor. To install graphics option modules inside
the system unit, follow the instructions in your TURBOchannel user
documentation.

The Main Components and How to Install Them 1–17

The Main Components and How to Install Them
1.2 The Monitor

1.2.5 Supplying Power to the Monitor
The monitor can get its power from the system unit, a power strip, or a
separate wall outlet.
•

System unit
When the monitor is connected to the power outlet on the system unit, the
monitor goes on or off whenever you turn the system unit on or off, if you
set and leave the monitor power switch in the on position.

•

Power strip
When the monitor is connected to a power strip, you can turn it on and off
by turning the power strip on or off, if you set and leave the monitor power
switch in the on position.

•

Separate wall outlet
When the monitor is connected to a separate wall outlet, you have to turn
the monitor on and off independently of the system unit.

The length of the cable supplied with your workstation to connect the monitor
to the system unit power outlet may limit the location of the monitor. If you
want to install the monitor at a distance from the system unit, connect the
monitor to a power strip or wall outlet with a monitor power cord, or you can
order a longer monitor-to-system-unit power cable.
Before connecting any power cords or cables, check for a yellow voltage label
covering the power connector on the monitor or a voltage requirement printed
on the monitor near the power outlet.
Caution
Check the voltage requirements for the device. Connecting a device
to a power source that does not meet the voltage requirements of that
device can damage the device.

1–18 The Main Components and How to Install Them

The Main Components and How to Install Them
1.2 The Monitor
1.2.5.1 To Connect the Monitor to the System Unit Power Outlet
1. Find the monitor-to-system-unit power cable.
Figure 1–15 Monitor-to-system-unit power cable

WS3PO085

The Main Components and How to Install Them 1–19

The Main Components and How to Install Them
1.2 The Monitor
2. Plug the appropriate end of the monitor-to-system-unit power cable into
the power connector on the back of the monitor.
Plug the other end into the monitor-to-system-unit power connector on the
back of the system unit.
Figure 1–16 Connecting the monitor-to-system-unit power cable

Monitor-to-system-unit
power cable

Monitor-to-system-unit
power connector

Monitor power
connector

WS3PO070

3. Check to make sure that the power to the system unit is off. Then set the
monitor power switch to the on position; see Section 1.2.1.

1–20 The Main Components and How to Install Them

The Main Components and How to Install Them
1.2 The Monitor
1.2.5.2 To Connect the Monitor to an Independent Power Outlet
1. Find the monitor power cord (identical to the system unit power cord).
Figure 1–17 Monitor power cord

WS3PO086

The Main Components and How to Install Them 1–21

The Main Components and How to Install Them
1.2 The Monitor
2. Plug the appropriate end of the monitor power cord into the power
connector on the back of the monitor.
Plug the other end of the power cord into a power strip or separate wall
outlet.
Figure 1–18 Connecting a separate monitor power cord
Monitor power connector

To power
source

WS3PO035

3. If you intend to turn your monitor on and off independently, set the monitor
power switch to the off position.
If you intend to control the power to your monitor by turning the power
strip on and off, set the monitor power switch to the on position.
For instructions on operating the monitor power switch, see Section 1.2.1.

1–22 The Main Components and How to Install Them

The Main Components and How to Install Them
1.3 Input Devices

1.3 Input Devices
The following input devices can be connected to your workstation:
•

Keyboard

•

Mouse

•

Tablet and puck or stylus

•

Dial and button box

1.3.1 The Keyboard
You have a choice of a full-sized or smaller version of the keyboard.
1.3.1.1 The LK401 Keyboard
The LK401 is a full-sized keyboard. The main part of the LK401 keyboard
resembles a typewriter keyboard. In addition to the main keys, the LK401
keyboard has some special function keys, a special editing keypad, and a
numeric/application keypad. The manuals for your software explain how to use
the special keys.

The Main Components and How to Install Them 1–23

The Main Components and How to Install Them
1.3 Input Devices
Figure 1–19 LK401 keyboard
Indicator lights

Main keys

Keyboard cable

Function keys

Special editing keypad
Numeric/application keypad

WS3PO022

1–24 The Main Components and How to Install Them

The Main Components and How to Install Them
1.3 Input Devices
1.3.1.2 Connecting the Keyboard to the System Unit
You connect the keyboard to the system unit using a keyboard-mouse cable
assembly.
Figure 1–20 Keyboard-mouse cable assembly

Connector block
Connector
block flap

15-pin cable connector

WS3PO082

The Main Components and How to Install Them 1–25

The Main Components and How to Install Them
1.3 Input Devices
1. Plug the 15-pin connector on the keyboard-mouse cable assembly into the
keyboard-mouse connector on the system unit.
Figure 1–21 Connecting the keyboard-mouse cable assembly to the system
unit

PMAG-C

1
2

1. Position the keyboard-mouse
cable connector so the widest
part of the connector is on top.
2. Turn the screws to your right
to hold the connector in place.

Keyboard and
mouse icons
WS3PO081

1–26 The Main Components and How to Install Them

The Main Components and How to Install Them
1.3 Input Devices
2. Insert the keyboard cable connector into the connector block of the
keyboard-mouse cable assembly.
Figure 1–22 Connecting the keyboard cable to the connector block

Connector block flap

Position the keyboard cable
connector so the clip is on
the bottom and push the
connector into the connector
block until it clicks into place.
WS3PO083

The Main Components and How to Install Them 1–27

The Main Components and How to Install Them
1.3 Input Devices
3. Lift the back of the monitor, slide the flap on the connector block under the
base of the monitor, and lower the base onto the flap. Be sure the entire
flap is under the base.
Figure 1–23 Positioning the connector block

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

1
2

V~100-120

A 7.9/4.2

3
2

Connector block

Connector
block flap
WS3PO026

1–28 The Main Components and How to Install Them

The Main Components and How to Install Them
1.3 Input Devices
1.3.1.3 Adjusting the Keyboard Feet
You can use the keyboard in either of two positions, depending on which you
find more comfortable: you can lay the keyboard flat on your work surface, or
you can slant it toward you at a slight angle. To position the keyboard, you
raise or lower the hinged feet on the bottom of the keyboard.
Figure 1–24 Raising and lowering the hinged feet on the keyboard

Hinged feet
on keyboard

WS3PO023

The Main Components and How to Install Them 1–29

The Main Components and How to Install Them
1.3 Input Devices

1.3.2 Pointing Devices
You use a pointing device to move the pointer and cursor on the monitor screen.
1.3.2.1 The Mouse and Tablet
The main pointing device for your workstation is a mouse. As an alternative
to a mouse, you can use a tablet and stylus or puck as a pointing device. You
cannot use both a mouse and a tablet and stylus at the same time.
Your software manuals explain how to use the devices.

1–30 The Main Components and How to Install Them

The Main Components and How to Install Them
1.3 Input Devices
Figure 1–25 Pointing devices

Mouse

Tablet

Stylus

Puck

Tablet with puck and stylus
WS3PO002

The Main Components and How to Install Them 1–31

The Main Components and How to Install Them
1.3 Input Devices
You connect the mouse (or tablet and stylus) to the connector block on the
keyboard-mouse assembly that attaches to the system unit.
1. Position the mouse or tablet cable connector so that the icon on it is below
the mouse icon on the connector block.
2. Push the cable connector as far as it will go into the connector block.
Figure 1–26 Connecting the mouse or tablet
Connector block
Mouse icon
Mouse or tablet cable
Keyboard-mouse assembly
Mouse icon

Keyboard
cable

WS3PO028

1–32 The Main Components and How to Install Them

The Main Components and How to Install Them
1.3 Input Devices
1.3.2.2 Dial and Button Boxes
If you are using computer-aided design (CAD) applications with your
workstation, you may want to connect a dial box or a button box in addition
to the mouse or tablet. Dial and button boxes allows you to easily rearrange
the contents of a graphic screen display. You connect a dial or button box to
one of the communications connectors on the system unit. For installation
information, refer to the documentation supplied with the device.
Figure 1–27 Dial and button boxes
Communication
device cable

To power

WS3PO024

The Main Components and How to Install Them 1–33

The Main Components and How to Install Them
1.4 Adjusting and Positioning Your Workstation for Comfort

1.4 Adjusting and Positioning Your Workstation for Comfort
You can make several adjustments to your workstation monitor and keyboard
for your comfort. You can:
•

Position the monitor on top of or beside the system unit.

•

Anchor the keyboard-mouse cable assembly connector block under the
monitor base, or wherever is convenient.

•

Tilt and swivel the monitor on its stand.

•

Adjust the monitor brightness and contrast controls.

•

Slant the keyboard toward you or lay it flat by raising or lowering the
hinged keyboard feet.

For more specific instructions, refer to the documentation that came with the
device.

1–34 The Main Components and How to Install Them

2
The Environment
This chapter describes the following topics:
•

Site requirements

•

Voltage

2.1 Site Requirements
To operate at its best, your workstation must be set up in a place that meets
certain requirements.
Caution
Failure to meet these requirements can damage the equipment.

2.1.1 Temperature and Humidity
•

The temperature around the workstation should be between 50° F (10° C)
and 95° F (35° C).
The workstation should be set up away from heaters, photocopiers, and
other sources of heat.
Protect your workstation from direct sunlight.

The Environment 2–1

2.1 Site Requirements

•

Air should flow freely around your workstation to keep heat from building
up and damaging the equipment.
Leave 4 inches (10 centimeters) between system unit vents and other
objects.
Leave 3 inches (7.6 centimeters) between monitor vents and other objects.

•

Relative humidity should be between 10 and 90 percent.

•

Store supplies (such as tape cartridges) within these same temperature and
humidity limits.

2.1.2 Cleanliness
•

Keep your work area as dust-free as possible.

2.1.3 Interference
•

Set up your workstation at least 30 inches (76.2 centimeters) from any
sources of electrical interference, such as other terminals or monitors,
printers, or electric pencil sharpeners.

•

To limit its exposure to static electricity and magnetized objects, set up
your workstation away from busy corridors and other high-traffic areas and
away from filing cabinets and steel beams in walls.

2.2 Electrical Requirements
•

Reserve an entire circuit for your workstation power source. The fuse for
the circuit must be at least 20 amperes.

•

Be sure your electrical circuit is properly grounded and free from electrical
noise. If possible, connect a surge-protected power strip to the outlet and
plug your workstation power cord into the power strip.

2–2 The Environment

2.2 Electrical Requirements

2.2.1 Voltage
Many of the devices you connect to your workstation, including most monitors,
must have voltages that match your power source, which is either 110/120 or
220/240 volts. Devices that require matching voltages have a yellow voltage
label covering the power connector. This label tells you that device’s power
requirements.
Caution
Connecting your equipment to a power source with the wrong voltage
can damage the equipment.

Figure 2–1 Voltage Labels

V 100-120

V 220-240

36-17905-19

V 100-120

V 220-240

36-17905-19

WSE2I021

The Environment 2–3

3
Starting and Testing
This chapter explains how to:
•

Turn on your workstation

•

Set your keyboard language

•

Operate system self-tests

•

Check your workstation configuration

•

Stop your worksystem software

•

Turn off your workstation

Starting and Testing 3–1

3.1 Turning On Your Workstation

3.1 Turning On Your Workstation
Before turning on your workstation for the first time,
•

Make sure that the system unit power cord is plugged into a wall outlet or
power strip.

•

Make sure that the monitor and any external devices are plugged into a
power source.

•

If any components of your workstation are plugged into a power strip,
make sure that the power strip is plugged into a power outlet.

•

If you intend to control power to your workstation by turning the power
strip on and off, make sure that all power switches on the workstation
components are set to the on position.

If all workstation components are plugged into a power strip, first turn on the
power strip, then your workstation. If some of your workstation components
are plugged into different outlets, turn on your workstation in the following
order:
1. Turn on any external devices. Most devices have rocker switches. Some
have push switches.
2. If necessary, turn on the monitor.
•

If the monitor gets its power through the system unit, and if you have
set the monitor power switch to the on position, the monitor will go on
when you turn on the system unit.

•

If the monitor is plugged into a wall outlet, or if the monitor power
switch is in the off position, turn it on now. (For instructions, refer to
the documentation that came with the monitor or see Section 1.2.1.)

When the monitor turns on, a green indicator light glows on the front of
the monitor. The monitor must run for 10 to 15 seconds before it is warmed
up enough for the display to be visible.
3. Turn on the system unit by pressing the | on the On/Off switch on the
back of the system unit. See Figure 3–1.

3–2 Starting and Testing

3.1 Turning On Your Workstation

Figure 3–1 Turning on the system unit

PMAG-C

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

V~100-120
/22
A 7.9/4.2
Hz 50-60
W 359

On/off switch
in the on position

WS3PO058

When you turn on the system unit, the following things happen:
•

The green power indicator light glows on the front of the system unit.

•

The system unit runs the automatic power-up self-test, which takes
from 1 to 5 minutes. The system displays the names of each subtest
that it runs at the bottom of the screen. Some tests display asterisks
(*) and other symbols, and some tests cause the screen to flicker.
If you have multiple monitors, the monitor connected to the graphics
module in the lowest-numbered option slot displays all system test
information. At the end of the power-up self-test, messages explaining
any errors that occurred during any of the subtests scroll across the
screen. (You can redisplay these messages later.)
For more information on the power-up self-test, see Section 3.3.

Starting and Testing 3–3

3.1 Turning On Your Workstation

4. If you are starting your workstation for the first time, you will be prompted
to select a keyboard language (see Section 3.2).
5. The screen displays the console prompt (>>) or the restricted console
prompt (R>) when the system is ready to accept user commands.
•

At the console prompt (>>), you can execute all console commands.

•

At the restricted console prompt, you can use only the boot and passwd
console commands until you enter the correct password, because
someone has set up a password requirement to restrict access to the
system.

•

To enter your password, type passwd and press Return. Then enter
the console password at the pwd prompt and press Return again. If you
do not know the password, contact your system manager or a Digital
service representative.

If anything other than the console prompt (>>), or restricted prompt (R>)
appears, turn to Chapter 11 for troubleshooting instructions.
6. At the console prompt, type erl and press Return to display a complete list
of any error messages that scrolled across the screen during the self-test.
If you see any error messages, or if you see a message that begins with
?TFL:, turn to Chapter 11 for troubleshooting instructions. After correcting
the error, turn the system unit off and then turn it back on again.
If your system unit fails to turn on, turn it off and check to ensure that
•

Power cords are connected properly, and the power strip, if there is one, is
plugged in and turned on.

•

There is power at all power outlets.

•

All power switches are set to the on position.

If the system unit still fails to work, turn to Chapter 11 for troubleshooting
instructions.

3–4 Starting and Testing

3.2 Setting the Keyboard Language

3.2 Setting the Keyboard Language
If you are installing the workstation for the first time, the system console
displays the following language menu:
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): _
Type the number displayed to the left of the language you want to use. Then
press Return.
The console prompt (>>) appears when the language is set.
If you need to change the workstation language, type setenv console 0 at the
console prompt and press Return. The language menu will be redisplayed.
Select a language and press Return. Then type boot and press Return to
restart the workstation.

Starting and Testing 3–5

3.3 Testing Your Workstation

3.3 Testing Your Workstation
Your workstation automatically runs a power-up self-test every time you turn
on the power to the system unit. Self-tests are programs that check your
workstation hardware to ensure that it is functioning properly.
Self-tests have numerous subtests that examine specific workstation
components. When a subtest discovers a problem, it displays a coded message,
called an error message, on the screen. When all the tests are done, the
workstation displays the console prompt (>>).

3.3.1 Using the Quick or Full Self-Test
You can issue one of the following console commands at the system console
prompt (>>) to change the number of self-tests the workstation runs during
power-up:
•

To set up your system to run a quick self-test (the default setting), enter
the command setenv testaction q.

•

To set up your system to run a more thorough set of self-tests, enter the
command setenv testaction t.

Chapter 10 explains the console commands in more detail.
You can run the full set of self-tests, collectively called the system self-test, at
any time. However, you must shut down your ULTRIX worksystem software
first.

3–6 Starting and Testing

3.3 Testing Your Workstation

3.3.2 To Run the Full Self-Test
1. If your workstation is running the ULTRIX worksystem software, type
shutdown -h now at the ULTRIX prompt and press Return to halt the
software.
2. At the console prompt (>>), type test and press Return.
•

As the system performs the subtests that make up the self-test, it briefly
displays the name of each subtest on the screen. The tests can take 15
minutes or more to run.
At the end of the self-test, messages scroll across the screen explaining any
errors that occurred during any of the subtests. Then the console displays
the console prompt (>>).

•

To redisplay the error messages, type erl at the console prompt (>>) and
press Return.

3.3.3 If a Self-Test Fails
At the end of the system self-test, error messages that have been generated
scroll across the screen. Use the error log command (erl) to redisplay these
messages and to look for others.
If you see any error messages, or if you see a message that begins with ?TFL:,
turn to Chapter 11 for an explanation of the message and troubleshooting
instructions.

3.4 Checking the Configuration Display
The configuration test tells you which option modules are in your system unit.
It identifies each module in your system unit by slot number and a special
option module code.
Use the cnfg command to check the workstation configuration (see Chapter 10).
Check to be sure that all the modules ordered for your workstation are listed in
the display on your screen. The modules you ordered are listed on the packing
list for your shipment.

Starting and Testing 3–7

3.5 Stopping the Workstation Without Turning It Off

3.5 Stopping the Workstation Without Turning It Off
You can shut down the ULTRIX worksystem software by typing shutdown -h
now at the ULTRIX prompt and pressing Return.
If you are unable to return to console mode using this shutdown command,
you can stop your workstation and all worksystem software by pressing the
halt button on the back of the system unit. The workstation and software stop
whatever they were doing, and the monitor displays the console prompt (>>).
Save all open work files, if you can, before pressing the halt button.
Note
It may take several seconds after pressing the halt button for your
system to respond.

Caution
Do not press the halt button while you are running any worksystem
software. This could cause the loss or corruption of data.

You can change the specific result of pressing the halt button by issuing a
console command to change the setting of the halt/action environment variable.
See Figure 3–2. Chapter 10 explains how to change this variable.

3–8 Starting and Testing

3.5 Stopping the Workstation Without Turning It Off

Figure 3–2 Halt button and system unit on/off switch

PMAG-C

0
1
2

3
2

Halt button

WS3PO059

3.6 Turning Off the Workstation
1. If your worksystem software has been installed, follow the instructions that
came with that software to shut it down.
2. Turn off the power.
•

If your workstation and all the devices connected to it take power from
a power strip, turn off the power strip.

•

If your workstation is not on a power strip,
Turn off any communications device by following the instructions
that came with the device.
Turn off each expansion box.
If the monitor receives its power from a separate wall outlet, turn
off the monitor. (If the monitor receives its power from the system
unit, leave the monitor on.)
Turn off the system unit.

Starting and Testing 3–9

3.7 Installing Workstation Software

3.7 Installing Workstation Software
The software for your system can be installed by you, or it may be installed at
the factory.
If you are installing the software, follow the instructions in the Guide to
Installing ULTRIX.
If you have factory-installed software, follow these instructions to start the
software:
1. At the console prompt (>>), type setenv boot "3/rz2/vmunix -a" and press
Return.
2. Then type boot and press Return.
See the ULTRIX Guide to Starting the Factory-Installed Software System for
further instructions.
Once you have installed the software, you can start it up in subsequent
sessions just by typing boot at the console prompt and pressing Return.
You will see some ULTRIX start-up messages, and then the log-in screen
appears. This is where you type your user name and your password, if you
have one. You receive both your user name and password from the system
manager when you first begin using your workstation.
Note
You must be running ULTRIX and UWS V4.3A or later. Earlier
versions of ULTRIX did not support the DECstation 5000 Model 260.

3–10 Starting and Testing

4
Moving Your Workstation
This chapter tells you how to disassemble your workstation and pack it for
moving.

4.1 Dismantling Your Workstation
1. If the workstation software is running, type shutdown -h now and press
Return.
2. Turn off any devices connected to your workstation, such as printers,
modems, or external hard disks.
3. Turn off the system unit by pressing the O on the On/Off switch on the
back of the system unit.
4. If necessary, turn off the monitor.
•

If the monitor gets its power through the system unit, it will go off
when you turn off the system unit.

•

If the monitor is plugged into a wall outlet, press the O on the On/Off
switch.

5. Unplug all power cords from their power sources.
6. Disconnect all external devices, including the monitor and the keyboard,
from the system unit. If two or more disk drives or other devices are
chained together, disconnect them from each other.
7. If the SCSI connector on the back of the system unit contains a terminator,
remove the terminator.
8. Disconnect the mouse from the keyboard.
9. If you are on a network, disconnect the Ethernet cable from the system
unit. Otherwise, remove the loopback connector.

Moving Your Workstation

4–1

4.2 Packing Your Equipment

4.2 Packing Your Equipment
Pack each piece of equipment in the original carton. Use any padding that
came in the carton to hold the equipment 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 that came with the device

4–2 Moving Your Workstation

Part II
External Additions to Your Workstation

5
External Storage Devices
This chapter describes:
•

Available external options

•

Types of storage devices you can connect

•

General rules for connecting storage devices

•

Installation of external storage devices

•

Meeting cable length limits

•

Checking and setting the SCSI ID of a storage device

•

Testing storage devices after installation

External Storage Devices 5–1

5.1 Available External Options

5.1 Available External Options
Listed below are the external options for the DECstation 5000 Model 260.
External options are contained in expansion boxes that are attached by a cable
to the system unit.
•

RZ23L, RZ24L, RZ25, RZ26, RZ58 fixed disk drives

•

RX23, RX33 diskette drive

•

TZK10, TZ30, TLZ06, TKZ08, TKZ09, TZ85, TSZ07 tape drives

•

TK50 cartridge tape drive

•

RRD42 compact disk drive

5.2 Storage Devices You Can Add to Your Workstation
External storage devices for the DECstation 5000 Model 260 workstation
are small computer systems interface (SCSI) drives (such as tape, disk, and
compact disc drives) that are contained in external boxes you connect to the
system unit. A SCSI drive can also be self-contained in its own box or installed
in a multiple-drive expansion box such as a BA42 expansion box or a TCE. You
can connect the external devices to the built-in SCSI connector on the system
unit or to any SCSI connector in a TURBOchannel option slot.
You can connect any of the following storage devices, shown in Figure 5–1, to
your workstation:
•

Any drive installed in a BA42 expansion box (for a list of specific drives,
see the BA42 Installation Guide)

•

Any drive installed in a TURBOchannel extender (TCE) unit (for a list of
specific drives, see the TURBOchannel Extender Operator’s Guide)

•

Any self-contained tape, disk, or compact disc drive that conforms to SCSI
specifications such as
•

TK50Z tape drive

•

RZ58 disc drive

•

RRD42 optical compact disc drive

5–2 External Storage Devices

5.2 Storage Devices You Can Add to Your Workstation

Figure 5–1 Some typical expansion boxes

RRD42 optical
compact disc drive
expansion box
TK50Z tape drive
expansion box
BA42 storage
expansion box

WS3PO005

External Storage Devices 5–3

5.3 Rules for Connecting Storage Devices

5.3 Rules for Connecting Storage Devices
For the system to work properly, external storage devices must be connected to
your workstation according to the following rules:
•

•

Up to seven SCSI drives (either self-contained or installed in multiple-drive
expansion boxes) can be attached to each SCSI connector.
•

A self-contained drive is one drive in its own box

•

A BA42 expansion box can hold one or two drives

•

A TCE can hold up to three drives

External storage devices that use the same SCSI connector must be linked
together by SCSI cables, forming a single chain of devices. Each expansion
box or self-contained storage device has two SCSI connectors:
•

One connects the device or box to the base system or to the previous
device or box in the chain.

•

The other connects the device or box to the next device or box in the
chain.

•

A SCSI terminator must be connected to the unused SCSI connector on the
last device or box in a chain.

•

Each drive in a chain of devices connected to one SCSI connector must
have a unique SCSI ID number. (See Section 5.6 for information about
determining and setting SCSI ID numbers.)

•

Up to three expansion boxes can be connected to each SCSI connector.

•

The SCSI bus cannot exceed 19.8 feet (6 meters).

5–4 External Storage Devices

5.4 Installing External Storage Devices

5.4 Installing External Storage Devices
1. Determine what external storage devices you have:
•

BA42 expansion box

•

TCE, if it has internal drives

•

Self-contained tape, disk, or compact disc drive

2. Check to make sure that the number of SCSI drives and storage expansion
boxes to be connected are within the allowable limits. You can connect up
to seven SCSI drives, contained in up to three expansion boxes, to the base
system SCSI connector.
3. Make sure that each SCSI drive on the same bus has a unique SCSI ID
number. If two or more of the drives to be connected to a SCSI connector
have the same SCSI ID number, you must change the duplicate SCSI IDs
(see Section 5.6).
4. Position the storage expansion boxes next to or on top of the system unit.
If one of the boxes is a TCE, place it directly on top of the system unit,
because one of its interconnecting cables is very short. You may stack the
boxes one on top of the other.
5. Set the power switches on the storage expansion boxes to the off position.
(Figure 5–2).
Figure 5–2 Power switch in the off position

Press the 0 on
this type of switch.
WS3PO101

External Storage Devices 5–5

5.4 Installing External Storage Devices

6. If the only device you are connecting is a TURBOchannel extender (TCE),
skip the rest of this procedure, mark your place in this guide, and refer
to the TURBOchannel Extender Operator’s Guide for instructions on
installing the TCE.
Otherwise, continue with these instructions.
7. Find the system-unit-to-expansion-box cable, shown in Figure 5–3, that
came with your workstation.
Figure 5–3 System-unit-to-expansion-box cable

To a SCSI connector
on the system unit

To a SCSI connector
on the expansion box

WS3PO102

5–6 External Storage Devices

5.4 Installing External Storage Devices

8. Attach the smaller connector on the system-unit-to-expansion-box cable to
the SCSI connector on the system unit, as Figure 5–4 shows.
Figure 5–4 Connecting the system-unit-to-expansion-box cable to the
system unit
Base system
SCSI connector
Position the smaller
cable connector
so the widest part
is on top.

d i g i

t a l

0
1
2

3
2

SCSI icon
WS3PO100

External Storage Devices 5–7

5.4 Installing External Storage Devices

9. Attach the larger connector on the system-unit-to-expansion-box cable to
one of the SCSI connectors on an expansion box.
Do not connect this cable to a TCE, if you have one. Skip the TCE and
connect the system-unit-to-expansion-box cable to the next box. (The TCE
requires a different type of cable and must be connected last.)
Figure 5–5 Connecting the system-unit-to-expansion-box cable to expansion
box

1. Gently press the two wire brackets on
the SCSI connector away from

Expansion box

the connector.

2. Hold the cable connector
so the widest part is on
the top and push the
cable connector into the
SCSI connector as far
as it will go.

Groove

Wire bracket

3. Press the two wire brackets
firmly against the sides of
the cable connector until
they lock into the grooves
on the connector.

WS3PO099

5–8 External Storage Devices

5.4 Installing External Storage Devices

10. Connect additional non-TCE expansion boxes to the first box, using
box-to-box SCSI cables.
Figure 5–6 SCSI box-to-box cable

WS3PO103

External Storage Devices 5–9

5.4 Installing External Storage Devices

Attach one end of a SCSI box-to-box cable to the unused SCSI connector on
the previously-installed box. Connect the other end of the cable to a SCSI
connector on the next expansion box.
Figure 5–7 Connecting an additional non-TCE expansion box to the first box
1.

Gently press the two wire brackets on the
SCSI connector away from the connector.

Press the two wire brackets
firmly against the side of
the cable connector until

Hold the connector so the

they lock into the groves on

widest part of the connector

the sides of the connector.

is on top and push it into
the SCSI connector on the
expansion box.

Wire
bracket

Connector

WS3PO098

5–10 External Storage Devices

5.4 Installing External Storage Devices

11. If one of the storage devices is a TCE with internal drives, connect the TCE
to the previous expansion box or self-contained drive.
a. Find the TCE-to-expansion box cable that came with the TCE (identical
to the system-unit-to-expansion-box cable).
Figure 5–8 TCE-to-expansion-box cable

To a SCSI connector
on the system unit

To a SCSI connector
on the expansion box

WS3PO104

External Storage Devices 5–11

5.4 Installing External Storage Devices

b. Connect the small end of the TCE-to-expansion box cable to the SCSI
connector on the TCE and connect the large end to the unused SCSI
connector on the previous expansion box. (The TCE must be the last
box in the chain of storage devices.)
Figure 5–9 Connecting the TCE to the expansion box

TCE-to-expansion-box
cable

TK50Z tape drive
expansion box

BA42 storage
expansion box

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

1
2

V~100-120/2
A 7.9/4.2 20-240
Hz 50-60
W 359

TURBOchannel
extender
WS2PO092

5–12 External Storage Devices

5.4 Installing External Storage Devices

12. Put a SCSI drive terminator on the unused SCSI connector on the last box
you connected. If the last device you connected was a TCE, skip this step,
because the TCE has its own internal SCSI terminator.
Figure 5–10 Connecting a SCSI drive terminator

Hold the terminator so
the widest part of its
connector is on top
Terminator

and push the terminator
onto the unused SCSI
connector.
Wire brackets

WS3PO097

External Storage Devices 5–13

5.4 Installing External Storage Devices

13. For each expansion box, connect one end of the power cord that came
with the device to the expansion box and connect the other end to a power
outlet.
Caution
Check the voltage requirements for the device. Connecting a device
to a power source that does not meet the voltage requirements of that
device can damage the device.

Figure 5–11 Connecting the power cord

Power cord connector

To power outlet
WS3PO096

5–14 External Storage Devices

5.4 Installing External Storage Devices

14. If you have additional SCSI connectors in the TURBOchannel option slots,
repeat this procedure to connect any additional storage devices to these
SCSI connectors.
Try to distribute the drives as evenly as possible among the SCSI
connectors on the base system unit and in the TURBOchannel option slots.

External Storage Devices 5–15

5.5 SCSI Cable Length

5.5 SCSI Cable Length
If the total length of internal and external cable used in a chain of storage
devices exceeds 236 inches (599 centimeters), the drives may not operate
correctly and transmitted data may be lost. To make sure that the drives in a
chain operate properly, put no more than three expansion boxes in one chain;
or make sure that the total length of SCSI cables in the chain does not exceed
the 236-inch limit. Table 5–1 lists the length of the SCSI cables linking the
drives inside each type of expansion box, as well as the lengths of SCSI cables
that you use to connect the external storage devices to the system unit and to
each other. The table is as accurate as possible, but actual lengths may vary
by an inch or two.
Table 5–1 SCSI Cable Lengths
Cable

Length

Internal cable for BA42 expansion box

31 inches
(79 centimeters)

Internal cable for TCE unit

52 inches
(132 centimeters)

Internal cable for self-contained storage devices (for
devices not listed here, refer to the documentation that
came with the device:
–For TK50Z tape drive

14 inches
(36 centimeters)

–For TLZ04 tape drive

37 inches
(94 centimeters)

–For RRD42 optical compact disc drive

6.5 inches
(17 centimeters)

System-unit-to-expansion-box cable (68-pin to 50-pin)

38 inches
(97 centimeters)

System-unit-to-TCE cable (68-pin to 68-pin)

26 inches
(66 centimeters)

SCSI box-to-box cable (50-pin to 50-pin)

26 inches
(66 centimeters)

Expansion-box-to-TCE cable (50-pin to 68-pin)

38 inches
(97 centimeters)

5–16 External Storage Devices

5.6 Checking and Setting SCSI ID Numbers

5.6 Checking and Setting SCSI ID Numbers
Each storage device in a group must have a SCSI ID, which the workstation
uses to identify the device. The SCSI ID for each drive must:
•

Be a number from 0 to 6. The numbers do not have to be consecutive.

•

Be used only once for each group of drives connected to a single SCSI
connector on the system unit.

5.6.1 To Check the SCSI ID
The SCSI ID for a single drive in its own box is usually displayed in a small
window on the back of the box. Table 5–2 lists the usual SCSI ID numbers
assigned to drives preinstalled at Digital in BA42 or TCE expansion boxes.
Table 5–2 Usual SCSI ID Assignments for External Drives
Type of External Drive

Usual SCSI ID Number

Hard disk drive

Hard disk drives in a multi-drive expansion box

0 and 1

Diskette drive

Optical compact disc drive

Tape drive

You can use the cnfg command to check the SCSI ID of a specific drive.
Connect the device to a SCSI connector on the system unit to which no other
devices are connected. Then follow the instructions Section 5.7.

5.6.2 To Set the SCSI ID
The SCSI IDs on most storage devices are preset to numbers that make it
easy to connect different types of drives to the same SCSI connector without
repeating SCSI IDs. However, the drives that you want to connect might have
the same SCSI ID. If this happens, you must change the SCSI ID on those
drives that repeat a SCSI ID number.
On some drives, such as the RRD42 optical compact disc, you set the SCSI
ID by pushing a button to increment or decrement the number displayed in
the SCSI ID window. On other drives, you set the SCSI ID by setting toggle
switches on the back of the drive. For more information about how to set the
SCSI ID on a specific drive, see the user’s guide that came with that device.

External Storage Devices 5–17

5.6 Checking and Setting SCSI ID Numbers

Table 5–3 lists the SCSI ID switch positions you should use to set the SCSI ID
to any number from 0 to 6 on drives installed in expansion boxes.
Table 5–3 SCSI ID Switch Settings
SCSI
ID

Hard Disk Drives or
Compact Disc Drives

Tape Drives1

Up Up Down

Down Down Up

Up Down Up

Down Up Down

Up Down Down

Down Up Up

Up Down Down

Down Up Down

Up Down Up

Down Down Up

Up Up Down

Down Down Down

Up Up Up

1 Switch 1 (the left switch) on the TLZ04 tape drive should always be in the down position.

5–18 External Storage Devices

5.7 Testing External Storage Devices

5.7 Testing External Storage Devices
1. Turn on the system unit.
When the system unit has completed the power-up self-test successfully,
type cnfg 3 and press Return.
A display that describes the SCSI connector and the drives attached to it
then appears on the monitor. This is a portion of a sample display for the
base system SCSI controller (slot 3).
>>cnfg 3
3: KN05

DEC

V1.0a

a. Look in the column labeled SCSI DEV for a coded description of the type
of drive (in this example, DIR, CD--ROM, and SEQ).
b. Look in the column labeled PID for a coded description of the part ID
number (in this example, RZ55, RZ24, and RRD42).
c.

Look in the column labeled DEV for the device code and SCSI ID for
each of the drives connected to the base system SCSI connector (in this
example, rz0, rz1, rz4, and tz5). The last character of the code is the
SCSI ID. The drives in this example have the SCSI IDs 0, 1, 4, and 5.

d. Note that the TKZ and TZ drives do not display PID, VID and REV
information.
e.

Check the slot configuration display to see if the system recognizes all
of the drives in the external storage devices that you connected to the
SCSI connector in that slot.
Table 5–4 lists the device codes, device descriptions, and types of drives
you may see in your slot configuration display.

External Storage Devices 5–19

5.7 Testing External Storage Devices

Table 5–4 Device Codes for Different Types of SCSI Drives
Device Code (DEV)

Device Description
(SCSI DEV)

Type of Drive

DIR

Diskette

CD–ROM

Optical compact disc

DIR

Hard disk

SEQ

Tape

2. If you have any external storage devices attached to a SCSI connector in a
TURBOchannel option slot, type cnfg slot-number, replacing slot-number
with the number of the option slot (0, 1, or 2) that you want to check.
Then check for the presence of all drives connected to that slot, as described
in the previous step.
If an expansion box that you installed fails to appear in the configuration
display, be sure that:
•

All cables are securely connected and a terminator has been installed on
the unused connector on the last box.

•

Each drive in the chain has a different SCSI ID number.

•

The expansion box is connected to an active power source and switched on.

•

The maximum SCSI bus length is not exceeded.

5–20 External Storage Devices

5.8 Removing an External Storage Device

5.8 Removing an External Storage Device
To remove a self-contained storage device or a drive expansion box:
1. Shut down the software.
2. Turn off all system hardware. First turn off the expansion boxes and other
external devices. Then turn off the monitor. Then turn off the system unit.
3. Disconnect the expansion box that you are removing.
If the box is in the middle of a chain of devices, be sure to reconnect all
of the remaining devices. Be sure that a terminator is on the unused
connector of the last device on the chain.
4. Turn on the system hardware again. First turn on the drive expansion
boxes and other external devices. Next, turn on the monitor. Then turn on
the system unit.
5. Use the cnfg command to test the slot from which you removed the
expansion box.

5.9 Installing a Drive in an Expansion Box
To install a drive in a BA42 storage expansion box, see the BA42 Storage
Expansion Box Installation Guide for directions.
To install a drive in a TCE unit, see the TURBOchannel Extender Operator’s
Guide for directions.

External Storage Devices 5–21

6
Optional Network Connections
This chapter explains:
•

Where your workstation’s Ethernet connector is located

•

When to use, how to install, and how to remove an Ethernet loopback
connector

•

How to operate the sliding lock on the Ethernet connectors

•

How to find the Ethernet station address for your workstation

•

How to connect your workstation to ThickWire, ThinWire, and twisted-pair
Ethernet networks

Optional Network Connections 6–1

6.1 Locating Your Workstation Ethernet Connector

6.1 Locating Your Workstation Ethernet Connector
The basic workstation comes with one ThickWire Ethernet connector built
into the base system unit for attaching to a single Ethernet network. You
can connect the workstation to more than one Ethernet network if you have
additional ThickWire Ethernet connectors in any of the TURBOchannel option
slots. (For instructions on how to install TURBOchannel ThickWire Ethernet
modules, refer to your TURBOchannel user documentation.) The illustrations
in this guide show the Ethernet connector on the base system unit.

6.2 Installing and Removing an Ethernet Loopback
Connector
Every Ethernet connector must be either connected to an Ethernet cable or
terminated with an Ethernet loopback connector in order for your workstation
to function correctly.

Front

Back

ThickWire Ethernet loopback connector
WS3PO079

If your workstation is not connected to an Ethernet network, you need to put
an Ethernet loopback connector on the base system Ethernet connector and on
any Ethernet connectors you may have in the TURBOchannel option slots.
When you connect the workstation to a network, you must remove the loopback
connector.
Figure 6–1 shows how to attach and remove an Ethernet loopback connector.
When attaching it, hold the connector so that the widest part of the metal rim
is uppermost and matches the connector on the system unit.

6–2 Optional Network Connections

6.2 Installing and Removing an Ethernet Loopback Connector

Figure 6–1 Installing and removing an Ethernet loopback connector

PMAG-C

0
1
2

3
2

ThickWire Ethernet
loopback connector

Base system
ThickWire Ethernet
connector with
Sliding lock
WS3PO044

6.3 Operating the Ethernet Connector Sliding Lock
There is a sliding lock on the ThickWire Ethernet connector on the base
system and on each Ethernet option module that may be installed in the
TURBOchannel option slots. There is also a sliding lock on one end of the
ThickWire Ethernet cable that connects your workstation to the Ethernet
network.

Optional Network Connections 6–3

6.3 Operating the Ethernet Connector Sliding Lock

To operate the sliding lock mechanism, follow these directions:
1. To unlock the sliding lock on the system unit Ethernet connector or on
a ThickWire Ethernet cable, slide the lock in the direction of the small,
u-shaped notch. (On the system unit, push the lock to the right with a
flat-blade screwdriver. On the cable, push the lock either left or right
toward the small notch, depending on the way the lock is mounted.)
Figure 6–2 Unlocking the Ethernet sliding lock

Large notch
Small notch

Sliding lock on the base system
ThickWire Ethernet connector

PMAG-C

0
1
2

3
2

WS3PO095

6–4 Optional Network Connections

6.3 Operating the Ethernet Connector Sliding Lock

2. To lock the sliding lock on the system unit Ethernet connector or on a
ThickWire Ethernet cable, push the protruding edge of the lock toward the
center of the connector until it clicks into place. Check to make sure that
the cable is locked securely in place before proceeding.

Optional Network Connections 6–5

6.3 Operating the Ethernet Connector Sliding Lock

Figure 6–3 Locking the Ethernet sliding lock

ThickWire-to-ThinWire adapter

To the ThickWire
Ethernet connector
on the system unit

Sliding lock

PMAG-C

0
1
2

WS3PO094

6–6 Optional Network Connections

6.4 Finding Your Ethernet Station Address

6.4 Finding Your Ethernet Station Address
Every Ethernet connector has a built-in controller. That controller has a
unique ID called an Ethernet station address. The system manager needs the
Ethernet address (or addresses) for your workstation in order to complete the
network connection for you. You need to find and report the Ethernet station
address for each Ethernet controller on your workstation, using the following
procedure.
1. At the workstation console prompt (>>), type cnfg and press Return. A
display similar to the following appears on the screen:
>>cnfg
3: KN05

DEC

V1.0a

TCF0

( 32 MB)

0: PMAG-BA

DEC

V5.3d

TCF0

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

1: PMAD-AA
>>

DEC

V5.3d

TCF0

(enet: 08-00-2b-0f-45-31)

The 3: at the extreme left on the first line indicates that the information
that follows is for slot 3, the base system unit. Look at the second line of
the display. The entry after enet: within the parentheses is the Ethernet
station address for the base system, slot 3.
The 0: and the 1: at the extreme left indicate that the information that
follows is for TURBOchannel option slots 0 and 1.
In this display, lines for both 3: and 1: show Ethernet station addresses.
The Ethernet address for the Ethernet controller in base slot 3 is
08-00-2b-0f-45-72.

The Ethernet address for the Ethernet controller in option slot 1 is
08-00-2b-0f-45-31.
2. Write down the Ethernet address for each Ethernet controller to be
connected to a network. Report the addresses to your system manager and
ask the manager to complete the Ethernet connections for you.

Optional Network Connections 6–7

6.5 Connecting the Workstation to an Ethernet Network

6.5 Connecting the Workstation to an Ethernet Network
Only a system manager or other authorized personnel can connect your
workstation to your in-house Ethernet network.
Caution
Attempting to connect your workstation to the network without prior
authorization and proper precautions can result in the loss of data
being transmitted to or from other workstations on the network.

You can remove the Ethernet terminator and connect one end of the ThickWire
Ethernet cable to your workstation, as well as any ThinWire or twistedpair adapters, without completing the connection to your in-house network.
However, once the Ethernet terminator is removed, your workstation will not
function properly until it is connected to the network.
To connect the workstation to a ThickWire Ethernet network, see Section 6.5.1.
To connect the workstation to a ThinWire or Twisted-pair Ethernet network,
follow the directions in Section 6.5.1; then follow the directions to connect a
ThinWire Ethernet adapter in Section 6.5.2 or a twisted-pair Ethernet adapter
in Section 6.5.3.

6–8 Optional Network Connections

6.5 Connecting the Workstation to an Ethernet Network

6.5.1 To Connect a ThickWire Ethernet Cable
1. Obtain the Ethernet station address for the workstation from the
workstation user.
2. Find the ThickWire Ethernet cable that was ordered for the workstation.
Notice that one end of the cable has a sliding lock on it and the other does
not.
3. Follow the instructions that came with the worksystem software to shut
down the software.
4. Turn off the system unit by pressing the O on the On/Off switch on the
back of the unit. Leave the power cord plugged in.
Figure 6–4 ThickWire Ethernet cable
To the ThickWire
Ethernet connector
on the system unit

Sliding lock

WS3PO047

Optional Network Connections 6–9

6.5 Connecting the Workstation to an Ethernet Network

5. Remove the loopback connector (if present) from the Ethernet connector on
the system unit (see Figure 6–1).
6. Position the cable connector that does not have the sliding lock so that the
widest part is on top. Push the connector directly onto the base system
ThickWire Ethernet connector.
Figure 6–5 Connecting a ThickWire Ethernet cable to the system unit

Base system ThickWire Ethernet
connector with sliding lock

PMAG-C

0
1
2

3
2

ThickWire Ethernet cable
WS3PO048

7. Slide the lock on the system unit Ethernet connector to the locked position
(see Figure 6–3 ).
8. If connecting the workstation to a ThinWire network, continue with the
instructions, in Section 6.5.2.
If connecting the workstation to a twisted-pair network, continue with the
instructions, in Section 6.5.3.
If connecting the workstation to a ThickWire network, continue with the
next step.

6–10 Optional Network Connections

6.5 Connecting the Workstation to an Ethernet Network

9. Put Ethernet loopback connectors on all unused Ethernet connectors you
may have in the TURBOchannel option slots (see Figure 6–1).
10. Then do one of the following:
•

If you are connecting the workstation to a ThickWire network, contact
your system manager or, if authorized to do so, follow your in-house
procedures to finish connecting the workstation to the network when
the network is not active. Your workstation will not operate properly
with an unterminated Ethernet cable until it is connected to the
network.

•

If you are connecting the workstation to a ThinWire network, continue
with the instructions in Section 6.5.2.

•

If you are connecting the workstation to a twisted-pair network,
continue with the instructions in Section 6.5.3.

Optional Network Connections 6–11

6.5 Connecting the Workstation to an Ethernet Network

6.5.2 To Connect a ThinWire Ethernet Adapter
Connect a DECstation 5000 Model 260 workstation to the ThinWire Ethernet
network cable using the ThickWire-to-ThinWire adapter.
1. Follow the instructions in Section 6.5.1.
2. Find the ThickWire-to-ThinWire adapter, the T-connector, and the Tconnector terminator that you ordered for your workstation.
Figure 6–6 Parts used to connect a workstation to a ThinWire network

ThinWire Ethernet connector

ThickWire
Ethernet
connector

ThickWire-to-ThinWire adapter

T-connector
terminator

T-connector

T- connector and terminator
WS3PO078

3. Find the connector with the sliding lock on the other end of the ThickWire
Ethernet cable you connected to your workstation.
Make sure that the sliding lock on the cable connector is in the unlocked
position (see Figure 6–2).

6–12 Optional Network Connections

6.5 Connecting the Workstation to an Ethernet Network

4. Hold the ThickWire-to-ThinWire adapter and the free end of the ThickWire
cable so that the connectors match. Push the ThickWire cable connector
with the sliding lock onto the ThickWire connector on the adapter.
5. Slide the lock on the cable attached to the adapter to the locked position
(see Figure 6–3).
Figure 6–7 Connecting a ThickWire cable to the ThinWire adapter

ThickWire-to-ThinWire
adapter

PMAG-C

0
1

Base system
ThickWire
Ethernet
connector
ThickWire Ethernet cable
WS3PO089

Optional Network Connections 6–13

6.5 Connecting the Workstation to an Ethernet Network

6. Attach the T-connector to the ThinWire Ethernet connector on the adapter.
Figure 6–8 Attaching a T-connector

ThickWire-to-ThinWire
adapter

Press the T-connector into the
adapter and turn the connector
to the right until it slides forward
and locks into place.

To the ThickWire Ethernet
connector on the system unit
WS3PO074

6–14 Optional Network Connections

6.5 Connecting the Workstation to an Ethernet Network

7. If you are connecting the workstation within a network cable segment,
leave both ends of the T-connector free to attach your in-house network
cables.
If you are connecting the workstation at the end of a network cable
segment, attach a T-connector terminator to the open end of the T-connector
on the adapter.
Figure 6–9 Attaching a T-connector terminator

ThickWire-to-ThinWire
adapter

Press the T-connector terminator into
the T-connector and turn the terminator
to the right until it slides forward and
locks into place.

T-connector
To the ThickWire Ethernet
connector on the system unit
WS3PO093

8. Put an Ethernet loopback connector on any unused Ethernet connectors in
the TURBOchannel option slots (see Figure 6–1).
9. Contact your system manager or, if authorized to do so, follow your inhouse procedures to finish connecting the workstation to the ThinWire
network when the network is not active. Your workstation will not operate
properly with an unterminated ThinWire adapter until it is connected to
the network.

Optional Network Connections 6–15

6.5 Connecting the Workstation to an Ethernet Network

6.5.3 To Connect a Twisted-Pair Ethernet Adapter
Connect a DECstation 5000 Model 260 workstation to an unshielded twistedpair Ethernet network using a ThickWire-to-twisted-pair adapter.
1. Follow the instructions in Section 6.5.1.
2. Find the ThickWire-to-twisted-pair adapter and the twisted-pair Ethernet
cable that you ordered for your workstation.
Figure 6–10 Parts used to connect a workstation to a twisted-pair Ethernet
network

Twisted-pair Ethernet cable

ThickWire Ethernet connector

Front view

Twisted pair phone-jack
type of connector

Back view

ThickWire-to-twisted-pair adapter
WS3PO077

3. Find the connector with the sliding lock on the other end of the ThickWire
Ethernet cable that you connected to your workstation.
Make sure that the sliding lock on the cable connector is in the unlocked
position (see Figure 6–2).

6–16 Optional Network Connections

6.5 Connecting the Workstation to an Ethernet Network

4. Hold the ThickWire-to-twisted-pair adapter and the free end of the
ThickWire cable so that the connectors match up. Push the ThickWire
cable connector with the sliding lock onto the ThickWire connector on the
adapter.
Figure 6–11 Connecting the ThickWire-to-twisted-pair-adapter

ThickWire-totwisted-pair
adapter

PMAG-C

0
1

Base system
ThickWire
Ethernet
connector

ThickWire Ethernet cable
WS3PO087

5. Slide the lock on the cable attached to the adapter to the locked position
(see Figure 6–3).
6. Find the twisted-pair Ethernet cable that you ordered for your workstation.
Notice that the telephone-jack type of connectors at both ends are identical.

Optional Network Connections 6–17

6.5 Connecting the Workstation to an Ethernet Network

7. Push one of the connectors on the twisted-pair Ethernet cable into the
telephone-jack type of connector on the adapter until it clicks into place.
Figure 6–12 Connecting the twisted-pair cable to the twisted-pair adapter
To the ThickWire Ethernet
connector on system unit

ThickWire-totwisted-pair adapter

Hold the telephone-jack
type of connector so the
clip is on the bottom.
WS3PO076

8. Put Ethernet loopback connectors on any unused Ethernet connectors in
the TURBOchannel option slots (see Figure 6–1).
9. Contact your system manager or, if authorized to do so, follow your inhouse procedures to finish connecting the workstation to the twisted-pair
network when the network is not active. Your workstation will not operate
properly with an unterminated twisted-pair adapter until it is connected to
the network.

6–18 Optional Network Connections

7
External Communications Options
This chapter explains how to:
•

Connect a communications device directly to the system unit

•

Use a communications connector adapter

•

Install a terminal as an alternate system console

External Communications Options 7–1

7.1 External Communications Options

7.1 External Communications Options
Communications devices that can be used with your DECstation 5000 Model
260 workstation include printers, plotters, modems, and console terminals.
Two synchronous/asynchronous RS232 serial communications ports with 25-pin
connectors are located on the back of the system unit.
Figure 7–1 Communications connectors on the system unit

PMAG-C

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

1
2

V~100-12
0/220-24
0
A 7.9/4.2
Hz 50-60
W 359

Communications
connector 3

Communications
connector 2

2
WS3PO052

When a terminal is configured as the system console, it occupies
communications port 3, leaving the other free for an optional serial peripheral
device such as a printer, plotter, or modem.
The baud rate of each serial line is independently programmable. The rate can
be set at 50 to 204,200 bits per second. The default rate is 9600 baud.

7–2 External Communications Options

7.2 Types of Connectors

7.2 Types of Connectors
Communications devices used with your workstation have two types of
connectors:
•

25-pin connector, which can be attached directly to the serial
communications ports on the system unit

•

Modular connector, which requires a communications connector adapter
before it can be connected to the system unit

Figure 7–2 Communications device connectors and an adapter

Communication

Modular

Communications

device cable

connector

adapter
WS3PO053

External Communications Options 7–3

7.3 Installing a Device with a 25-Pin Connector

7.3 Installing a Device with a 25-Pin Connector
You can connect 25-pin communication connectors directly to the system unit.
1. Follow the instructions that came with your device and be sure that:
•

The device is turned off.

•

The device is set up and the cable and power cord that came with it are
attached.

•

The proper baud rate and control settings on the device and in the
worksystem software are set, if appropriate.

2. Follow the instructions that came with your worksystem software to shut
down the software.
3. Turn off the system unit by pressing the O on the On/Off switch on the
back of the unit.
4. Connect the end of the communications device cable to the system unit as
shown in Figure 7–3. The connectors are shaped so that they go together
only one way.

7–4 External Communications Options

7.3 Installing a Device with a 25-Pin Connector

Figure 7–3 Connecting a communications device with a 25-pin connector
System unit
communications
connector

digital

PMAG-C

0
1
2

25-pin connector

WS3PO054

External Communications Options 7–5

7.3 Installing a Device with a 25-Pin Connector

5. Plug the power cord into the power outlet.
6. Turn on the communications device.
7. Turn on the system unit by pressing the | on the On/Off switch on the
back of the unit.
The workstation performs either the quick or the full automatic power-up
self-test, depending on how the testaction environment variable was set.
(For information about setting the testaction environment variable or about
the power-up self-test, see Section 3.3.)
8. If your workstation ran the quick rather than the full power-up self-test,
type test at the console prompt (>>) and press Return. The workstation
will then run the complete system self-test.
If any part of the self-test fails, the system displays an error message.
Turn to Chapter 11 for troubleshooting instructions.

7–6 External Communications Options

7.4 Installing a Device with a Modular Connector

7.4 Installing a Device with a Modular Connector
To install a device with a modular (telephone-jack type) connector, you need a
25-pin communications adapter.
1. Follow the instructions that came with your communications device and be
sure that:
•

The device is turned off.

•

The device is set up and the cable and power cord that came with it are
attached.

•

The proper baud rate and control settings on the device and in the
worksystem software are set, if appropriate.

2. Follow the instructions that came with your worksystem software to shut
down the software.
3. Turn off the system unit by pressing the O on the On/Off switch on the
back of the unit.
4. Find the communications connector adapter that came with your shipment
(see Figure 7–2).
5. Hold the adapter so that the widest part of the connector is on top. Press
the 25-pin connector on the adapter into one of the communications
connectors on the system unit and tighten the screws (see Figure 7–4).

External Communications Options 7–7

7.4 Installing a Device with a Modular Connector

6. Hold the modular connector on the communications device cable so that the
clip is on your left. Push the modular connector into the adapter until the
connector clicks into place.
Figure 7–4 Using an adapter to connect a communications device with a
modular connector

digital

PMAG-C

2
3
2

Clip

Modular
connector

Communications
connector adaptor

WS3PO055

7. Plug the power cord into the power outlet.
8. Turn on the communications device.

7–8 External Communications Options

System unit
communications
connector

7.4 Installing a Device with a Modular Connector

9. Turn on the system unit by pressing the | on the On/Off switch on the
back of the system unit.
The workstation performs either the quick or the full automatic power-up
self-test, depending on how the testaction environment variable has been
set. (For information about setting the testaction environment variable or
about the power-up self-test, see Section 3.3.)
10. If your workstation ran the quick self-test, type test at the console prompt
(>>) and press Return. The workstation will then run the complete system
self-test.
If any part of a self-test fails, the system displays an error message. Turn
to Chapter 11 for troubleshooting instructions.

External Communications Options 7–9

Part III
Internal Parts and Additions to Your
Workstation

8
Inside the System Unit
This chapter describes:
•

Available internal options

•

The main parts of the system unit

•

How to remove and replace the cover of the system unit

•

How to use the antistatic wrist strap

Inside the System Unit 8–1

8.1 Available Internal Options

8.1 Available Internal Options
Listed below are the internal options for the DECstation 5000 Model 260.
Internal options are contained inside the system box.
•

MS02L–AB or MS02–CA memory modules

•

TURBOchannel options

8.2 Main Parts of the System Unit
The system unit enclosure, shown in Figure 8–1, contains:
•

Base system module

•

Memory modules

•

Central processing unit (CPU) module

•

TURBOchannel option modules, if any

•

Power supply

Figure 8–1 Inside of the system unit enclosure

Power supply

TURBOchannel option
modules (optional)
Memory
module

CPU module
Base system module
MLO-010001

8–2 Inside the System Unit

8.2 Main Parts of the System Unit

You can improve your workstation’s performance by replacing or adding the
following internal options:
•

Memory modules

•

Nonvolatile random-access memory (NVRAM) module

•

CPU module

•

TURBOchannel option modules

8.2.1 The Base System Module
The base system module contains
•

CPU module slot

•

15 memory module slots

•

256-kilobyte power-up self-test and bootstrap read-only memory (ROM)

•

System control and status registers

•

System clock and 50-byte battery-backed-up random-access memory (RAM)

•

Two synchronous/asynchronous RS232 serial communication ports

•

Serial line interface for keyboard and mouse or other pointing device

•

Network interface for ThickWire Ethernet

•

Small computer system interface (SCSI-2) for up to seven devices

•

Three TURBOchannel option slots

•

Interrupt halt switch

8.2.2 Memory Modules
Your workstation comes with at least 32 megabytes of memory. The amount
of memory can vary, depending on what memory modules you ordered for your
workstation. The memory modules plug into the memory slots on the base
system module. You can expand your workstation’s memory to a total of 480
megabytes by installing up to fifteen 32-megabyte (MS02-CA) single in-line
memory modules. All memory modules in your system unit must be the same
type and have the same capacity. (The MS02L-AB, MS02-AA, and MS02-AB
are compatible.)(See Chapter 9 for instructions on installing memory modules.)

Inside the System Unit 8–3

8.2 Main Parts of the System Unit

8.2.3 Nonvolatile Random-Access Memory (NVRAM) Module
Your workstation optionally comes with 1 megabyte of nonvolatile randomaccess memory (NVRAM). NVRAM provides a battery-backed-up memory
disk cache that retains data during a power failure and improves workstation
performance. The NVRAM module plugs into the last memory module slot
on the base system module. See Chapter 9 for instructions on installing an
NVRAM module.

8.2.4 The CPU Module
The CPU module performs all the data processing functions of the workstation.
It plugs into the base system module.
The CPU module contains
•

R4000 central processing unit (CPU)

•

1-Mbyte instruction and data secondary cache

•

256 KD ROM that superceeds system ROM

For information on installing a CPU module, refer to Chapter 9.

8.2.5 TURBOchannel Option Modules
The system unit has space for up to three TURBOchannel option modules.
TURBOchannel option modules can expand the capabilities of your workstation
in the following ways:
•

Graphics modules allow you to connect one or more monitors to your
workstation. Your workstation comes with one graphics option module
installed. Graphics modules can be installed in:
Any TURBOchannel option slot in the system unit
A TURBOchannel extender (TCE) unit connected to the system unit

•

SCSI controller modules allow you to connect more external storage devices
(such as disk, tape, and compact disc drives) to your workstation than the
base system SCSI controller can accommodate.

•

Ethernet controller modules allow you to connect your workstation to more
than one Ethernet network.

•

Other TURBOchannel option modules allow you to connect special options,
such as DECaudio and DECvideo-in, to your workstation.

8–4 Inside the System Unit

8.2 Main Parts of the System Unit

Some TURBOchannel options, including many graphics modules, take up
the physical space and power of two or three TURBOchannel option slots,
but have only one TURBOchannel address. These TURBOchannel modules
are called wide modules. To avoid using more than one slot in your system
unit for a double- or triple-wide module, you can install the wide module in
a TURBOchannel extender (TCE) unit instead. You connect the TCE to a
single-wide TCE option module installed in one of the three TURBOchannel
option slots in the system unit. The TCE can contain one wide module (for
instance, a graphics module), as well as tape, disk, or compact disc drives.
For more information about TURBOchannel options and how to install them,
refer to the TURBOchannel Options User’s Guide.

8.2.6 The Power Supply
The DECstation 5000 Model 260 workstation has a fully self-contained,
244-watt maximum, fan-cooled power supply. Output voltages are +5.1 volts at
40 amperes, 12.1 volts at 2.7 amperes, and 12.1 volts at 0.2 amperes.

Inside the System Unit 8–5

8.3 Removing and Replacing the System Unit Cover

8.3 Removing and Replacing the System Unit Cover
8.3.1 To Remove the Cover from the System Unit
1. Follow the instructions that came with your worksystem software to shut
down the software.
2. Turn off the system unit by pressing the O on the On/Off switch on the
back of the unit.
3. Unplug the system unit power cord.
4. Loosen the cover-release screw on the back of the system unit. This is a
captive screw; it can be loosened, but not removed.
5. Stand in front of the system unit, grasp both sides of the cover with
your hands, and pull the cover straight toward you about 2 inches (5
centimeters). Then pull up (see Figure 8–2).
Caution
If your workstation was running prior to removing the system unit
cover, wait several minutes for the unit to cool down before touching
any of the parts, as they could be hot.
Always use an antistatic wrist strap when working inside of the system
unit (see Section 8.4).

8–6 Inside the System Unit

8.3 Removing and Replacing the System Unit Cover

8.3.2 To Replace the Cover on the System Unit
1. Standing at the front of the system unit, position the cover as shown in
Figure 8–2.
2. Place the cover on the system unit about 2 inches (5 centimeters) from the
back of the unit. Then slide the cover all the way to the back of the system
unit.
3. Press and tighten the cover-release screw on the back of the unit.
4. Turn on the system unit by pressing | on the On/Off switch on the back of
the unit.
Figure 8–2 Removing and replacing the system unit cover

PMAG-C

0
1

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

2
V~100-120/2
A 7.9/4.2

20-240

Hz 50-60
W 359

Captive screw
On/off switch
WS3PO037

Inside the System Unit 8–7

8.4 Using the Antistatic Wrist Strap

8.4 Using the Antistatic Wrist Strap
Always use an antistatic wrist strap when you work inside the system unit or
with items stored in antistatic bags.
Caution
Failure to use an antistatic device while handling electrostatically
sensitive computer parts can result in reduced reliability or damage to
the part.

1. Find the antistatic wrist band that came with your workstation or with the
parts to be installed.
2. Unwrap the first two folds of the wrist band and wrap the exposed adhesive
side firmly around your wrist.
3. Unroll the rest of the band and peel the liner from the copper foil at the
opposite end.
4. Attach the adhesive copper foil to the metal frame that encloses the system
unit.

8–8 Inside the System Unit

8.4 Using the Antistatic Wrist Strap

Figure 8–3 Using an antistatic wrist strap

MLO-010285

Inside the System Unit 8–9

9
Installing Internal Option Modules
This chapter explains:
•

How to install, test, and remove memory modules

•

How to install, remove, and test an NVRAM module

•

How to replace and test the CPU module

•

Where to find information on installing TURBOchannel option modules

Installing Internal Option Modules 9–1

9.1 Installing and Removing Memory

9.1 Installing and Removing Memory
DECstation 5000 Model 260 workstations come with at least 16 megabytes of
memory. You can add more memory by installing additional memory modules
in the memory module slots inside the system unit. Your workstation has 15
memory slots. The first 14 slots (slots 0 to 13) can hold either all 8-megabyte
or all 32-megabyte single in-line memory modules (SIMMs). The last slot (slot
14) can hold either another SIMM of the same type or an NVRAM module.
•

With 8-megabyte memory modules, you can install up to 120 megabytes of
memory.

•

With 32-megabyte memory modules, you can install up to 480 megabytes of
memory.

When adding memory modules, follow these rules:
•

Fill the memory slots in order, starting with slot 0.

•

Do not leave an empty slot between two filled slots.

•

Use only one type of memory module in your workstation: either the
MS02L-AB or the MS02-CA.
Each MS02L-AB module contains 8 megabytes of memory.
Each MS02-CA module contains 32 megabytes of memory.

The cnfg command shows how much memory is installed in your workstation.
Chapter 10 explains how to use the command.

9–2 Installing Internal Option Modules

9.1 Installing and Removing Memory

9.1.1 To Install Memory Modules
To install memory modules, you need a medium Phillips screwdriver.
1. Follow the instructions that came with your worksystem software to shut
down the software.
2. Turn off the system unit by pressing the O on the on/off switch on the back
of the unit. Then unplug the system unit power cord.
Caution
Allow the unit to cool down several minutes before touching any
internal parts, as the parts could be hot.

3. Remove the cover from the system unit (see Section 8.3.1).
4. Attach one end of the antistatic wrist strap to your wrist and attach
the other end to the metal frame that encloses the system unit (see
Section 8.4).
5. Locate the metal bracket that locks the memory modules in place (see
Figure 9–1). Loosen the two screws on the bracket until the bracket can be
pulled away from the system unit.

Installing Internal Option Modules 9–3

9.1 Installing and Removing Memory

Figure 9–1 Releasing the memory module bracket

Screws

Metal bracket

0
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
12
13
14

Memory module

Antistatic wrist strap
WS3PO038

9–4 Installing Internal Option Modules

9.1 Installing and Removing Memory

6. Unpack a new memory module.
Caution
Do not touch the contacts along the bottom of the memory module, as
this can damage or destroy the module.

Figure 9–2 Memory module

Front view

Back view
WS3PO039

Installing Internal Option Modules 9–5

9.1 Installing and Removing Memory

7. Look at the numbers printed beside the memory slots inside the system
unit. Align the connector on the module with the lowest-numbered vacant
connector in the system unit. Then push the memory module straight
down and all the way into the memory connector on the system unit.
Figure 9–3 Memory slots inside the system unit

0
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
11
12
13

Memory slot
numbers

WS3PO040

8. Repeat the installation for every memory module you are installing.
Be sure to install each module in the slot with the lowest number still
available.
9. Replace the metal bracket and the two screws that hold it in place.
10. Remove the antistatic wrist strap from your wrist and from the system
unit.
11. Replace the cover on the system unit (see Section 8.3.2).

9–6 Installing Internal Option Modules

9.1 Installing and Removing Memory

9.1.2 To Test Memory Modules
1. Turn on the monitor. Then turn on the system unit.
The system unit runs the power-up self-test.
2. At the console prompt (>>), type one of the following:
•

t 3/mem * to test all of the memory modules

•

t 3/mem followed by a space and the number of a memory slot to test
the memory module installed in that slot. For example, to test the
module in memory slot 2, type t 3/mem 2.

A display similar to the following appears on your screen as the memory
test progresses: Testing all memory modules can take up to 5 minutes.
**\
When the test is done, the console prompt (>>) appears. If an error
message appears, turn to Chapter 11 for troubleshooting instructions.
3. Type cnfg 3 at the console prompt and press Return to see the total
amount of memory in the workstation. A display like the following appears
on your screen:
>>cnfg 3
3: KN05

DEC

V1.0a

TCF0 ( 32 MB)
(enet: 08-00-2b-2d-84-c7)
(SCSI = 7)
--------------------------------------------------DEV PID
VID
REV
SCSI DEV
===== ================== ========== ====== ========
rz2 RZ24
(C) DEC DEC
0700 DIR
rz4 RRD42
(C) DEC DEC
0700 DIR
tz5
SEQ
cache: I( 8 KB), D(8KB), S(1024 KB); Scache line( 32 Bytes)
R4000 revision (3.0)
mem( 0): a0000000: a1ffffff
( 32 MB)
mem( 1): a2000000: a3ffffff
( 32 MB)
mem( 2): a4000000: a5ffffff
( 32 MB)
mem( 3): a6000000: a7ffffff
( 32 MB)
mem( 4): a8000000: a9ffffff
( 32 MB)
mem( 5): aa000000: abffffff
( 32 MB)
mem( 6): ac000000: adffffff
( 32 MB)
mem(14): bc000000: bc0fffff
( 1 MB)
Presto-NVR

mem(14): clean, batt OK, armed
>>

Installing Internal Option Modules 9–7

9.1 Installing and Removing Memory

The first number in the parentheses on the first line of the display shows
the total amount of memory in your workstation. The lines beginning
with mem show the amount of memory installed in each memory slot. If
the display does not list the correct amount of memory, check to make
sure that the correct memory modules are installed in the system unit in
consecutive slots. If the correct modules are installed, turn to Chapter 11
for troubleshooting instructions.

9.1.3 To Remove Memory Modules
Follow these rules when you remove memory modules:
•

Remove memory modules from one memory slot at a time, always starting
with the highest-numbered slot.

•

Do not leave an empty slot between memory modules.

•

Be sure you have at least 16 megabytes of memory to operate your
workstation.

To remove memory modules:
1. Follow the instructions that came with your worksystem software to shut
down the software.
2. Turn off the system unit by pressing the O on the On/Off switch on the
back of the unit. Then unplug the system unit power cord.
Caution
Allow the unit to cool down several minutes before touching any
internal parts, as the parts could be hot.

3. Remove the cover from the system unit (see Section 8.3.1).
4. Use the antistatic wrist strap.
5. Locate the metal bracket that locks the memory modules in place (see
Figure 9–4). Loosen the two screws on the bracket until the bracket can be
pulled away from the system unit.

9–8 Installing Internal Option Modules

9.1 Installing and Removing Memory

Figure 9–4 Releasing the memory module bracket

Screws

Metal bracket

0
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
12
13
14

Memory module

Antistatic wrist strap
WS3PO038

Installing Internal Option Modules 9–9

9.1 Installing and Removing Memory

6. Locate the memory module in the highest-numbered memory slot and pull
that module straight up until it is free of its connector. Store the module in
an antistatic bag.
Figure 9–5 Removing a memory module

Antistatic wrist strap

Memory module

0
1
2
3
4
5
6

WS3PO042

7. Continue removing memory modules until you have removed all that you
intend to. (You must have at least 16 megabytes of memory to operate your
workstation.) Always remove memory modules from the highest-numbered
memory slots first.
8. If you are replacing the existing memory modules with new ones, turn to
Section 9.1.1.
9. Replace the metal bracket and tighten the screws.
10. Remove the antistatic wrist strap from the system unit and your wrist and
replace the cover on the system unit (see Section 8.3.2).

9–10 Installing Internal Option Modules

9.2 Installing and Removing a PrestoServe/NVRAM Module

9.2 Installing and Removing a PrestoServe/NVRAM Module
The PrestoServe nonvolatile random-access memory (NVRAM) module is an
option for your workstation that provides 1 megabyte of battery-backed up
memory. The NVRAM module (MS02-NV) can be installed only in memory slot
14 on the base system module. You install and remove an NVRAM module
in basically the same way that you install and remove memory modules (see
Section 9.1.1 and Section 9.1.3).
To test an NVRAM module,
1. Turn on your workstation.
The system unit runs the power-up self-test. (For details about the
self-test, see Chapter 3.) When the test is done, the console prompt
(>>) appears. If an error message appears, turn to Chapter 11 for
troubleshooting instructions.

Installing Internal Option Modules 9–11

9.2 Installing and Removing a PrestoServe/NVRAM Module

2. Type cnfg 3 at the console prompt and press Return. A display like
the following appears on your screen (the numbers in the black circles
correspond to the descriptions that follow):
3: KN05

DEC

V1.0a

TCF0

( 32 MB)
(enet: 08-00-2b-2d-84-c7)
(SCSI = 7)

--------------------------------------------------DEV PID
VID
REV
SCSI DEV
===== ================== ========= ====== ========
rz4 RX23
(C) DEC DEC
0700 DIR
tz1
SEQ
cache: I( 8 KB), D( 8 KB), S(1024 KB); Scache line (32 bytes)
R4000 revision (3.0)
mem( 0): a0000000: a1ffffff
( 32 MB)
mem( 1): a2000000: a3ffffff
( 32 MB)
mem(14): bc000000: bc0fffff
( 1 MB)
Presto-NVR

mem(14): clean, batt OK, armed
>>
Indicates that 1 megabyte of NVRAM is present in the base system slot
(slot 3)

Indicates that the NVRAM module has been installed in memory slot 14
Indicates the status of the NVRAM module
A clean cache has no data in it, in which case the battery disconnect circuits
are armed and the battery is disconnected from the cache, which is not
currently needed. A valid cache has valid data in it, in which case the battery
disconnect circuits are unarmed and the battery is connected to the cache to
preserve the data in the event of a power failure.
Caution
Turning the workstation off when battery disconnect circuits are
unarmed (NVRAM battery is connected to the cache and the cache is
valid) will drain the batteries unnecessarily.

9–12 Installing Internal Option Modules

9.2 Installing and Removing a PrestoServe/NVRAM Module

Turn to Chapter 11 for troubleshooting instructions in any of the following
circumstances:
•

The system self-test displayed an error message referring to prcache.

•

The cnfg 3 display does not list the NVRAM module.

•

The cnfg 3 display shows the status of the NVRAM module to be anything
other than: clean, batt OK, armed

9.3 Replacing CPU Modules
You may need a flat-blade screwdriver to install a new CPU module.

9.3.1 To Remove a CPU Module
1. Follow the instructions that came with your worksystem software to shut
down the software.
2. Turn off the system unit by pressing the 0 on the On/Off switch on the back
of the unit. Then unplug the system unit power cord.
Caution
Allow the unit to cool down several minutes before touching any
internal parts, as the parts could be hot.

Installing Internal Option Modules 9–13

9.3 Replacing CPU Modules

3. Remove the cover from the system unit by following these steps: unscrew
the captive screw, then press down on the cover, slide it forward, and lift it
off. (see Section 8.3.1).
Figure 9–6 Removing the Cover

0
PMAG

-C

V~100

-120 A
3.0

V~220

-240 A

1.7

V~100

-120/2

20-240

A 7.9/4.2
Hz 50-60

W 359

Captive
Screw
MLO-010286

9–14 Installing Internal Option Modules

9.3 Replacing CPU Modules

4. Use the antistatic wrist strap.
Figure 9–7 Attaching the Wrist Strap

MLO-010285

Installing Internal Option Modules 9–15

9.3 Replacing CPU Modules

5. Push in the rivets.
Figure 9–8 Attaching the Rivets
Rivets

0
PMAG

-C

V~100

-120 A
3.0

V~220

-240 A

1.7

V~100

-120/2

20-240

A 7.9/4.2
Hz 50-60

W 359

4 in
Rivet

1.5 in

MLO-010287

9–16 Installing Internal Option Modules

9.3 Replacing CPU Modules

6. Remove the CPU module inside the system unit.
•

Push the PC board removal tool over each of the mounting posts to
unlock the post.

•

Pry up the board with your fingers. Set it aside.

Figure 9–9 Removing the Old CPU
CPU module
connectors
CPU
module

PC board
removal
tool

Mounting posts
(one of four)

Lock

MLO-010009

Caution
Do not pull on the heat sinks, as that can damage the CPU module.

Installing Internal Option Modules 9–17

9.3 Replacing CPU Modules

7. Slide each of the grounding clips in place under the power suply. Use the
wooden tool to push in the clip securely.
Figure 9–10 Inserting the Grounding Clips
EMI grounding
clips

EMI
grounding
clip

PC board
removal tool

MLO-010288

9–18 Installing Internal Option Modules

9.3 Replacing CPU Modules

9.3.2 To Install a New CPU Module
1. Align the board mounting holes over the mounting posts. Push down on
the board with your fingers over the holes and on the rear of the board.
Figure 9–11 Adding the New CPU

CPU module
connectors

Mounting posts
(one of four)
CPU module slots
MLO-010003

2. Remove the wrist strap.

Installing Internal Option Modules 9–19

9.3 Replacing CPU Modules

3. Place the system box cover upside down on a table. Squeeze together the
medallion tabs and pop out the medallion. Snap in the new medallion.
Turn the system box rightside up.
Figure 9–12 Replace the Medallion

Medallion tabs

System cover
(upside down)
MLO-010289

9–20 Installing Internal Option Modules

9.3 Replacing CPU Modules

4. Paste the power warning and product conversion labels onto the top of the
cover.
Figure 9–13 Add the Labels
Product
conversion label

digi

t al

DEC station

Power warning
label

5000

MLO-010350

Installing Internal Option Modules 9–21

9.3 Replacing CPU Modules

5. Replace the system unit cover and turn on the system unit.
Figure 9–14 Replace the Cover

0
PMAG

-C

V~100

-120 A
3.0

V~220

-240 A

1.7

V~100

-120/2

20-240

A 7.9/4.2
Hz 50-60

W 359

Captive
Screw
MLO-010351

9–22 Installing Internal Option Modules

9.3 Replacing CPU Modules

6. Put the R3000 module into the R4000 packaging. Paste on the address
label and mail to Digital.
Figure 9–15 Return the Old CPU
Return address label

Old
module

ESD
bag

Bubble
pack

Shipping
carton

MLO-010352

9.3.3 To Test the CPU Module
1. Turn on your workstation. The workstation runs the power-up self test.
(For details about the self-test, see Chapter 3.)
2. When the console prompt (>>) appears, type t 3/misc/cpu-type.
If the system recognizes the CPU module, it displays the message: 3/misc
/cpu-type’s code: NDX-111A
The type-code displayed should match that of the CPU module you
installed.
If your workstation fails to run the power-up self-test, you may have installed
the CPU incorrectly. The module connectors may not have been aligned
correctly. Try installing the CPU module again. If the test fails again, call your
Digital service representative for help.

Installing Internal Option Modules 9–23

9.4 Installing and Removing TURBOchannel Option Modules

9.4 Installing and Removing TURBOchannel Option Modules
Your DECstation 5000 Model 260 workstation comes with three
TURBOchannel option slots in which you can install various TURBOchannel
option modules. You can install a double- or triple-wide TURBOchannel
module in either the system unit or a TCE. (For a discussion of TURBOchannel
options, refer to Section 8.2.5.)
If you are installing a TURBOchannel module in a TCE, you also need to
install a TCE option module in the system unit, which connects to the module
in the TCE. Follow these instructions:
1. Remove the cover from the workstation system unit (see Section 8.3).
2. Refer to the TURBOchannel Extender Operator’s Guide for instructions
on installing the TURBOchannel module in the TCE and the TCE option
module in the system unit.
If you are installing TURBOchannel option modules in the system unit, follow
these instructions:
1. Remove the cover on the system unit (see ‘‘Section 8.3’’ on page 8-6 for
instructions).
2. Refer to the chapter in the TURBOchannel Options User’s Guide that
discusses the option you want to install.

9–24 Installing Internal Option Modules

Part IV
Managing Your Workstation

10
Using the Console Commands
This chapter describes:
•

The use of console and operating modes

•

How to use console mode

•

How to install a terminal as an alternate system console

•

Rules for console commands

•

Console conventions

•

Console commands

•

Environmental variables

Using the Console Commands 10–1

10.1 Console and Operating Modes

10.1 Console and Operating Modes
Your workstation functions in two modes: console mode and operating mode.
When your workstation is in console mode, you are using the setup and testing
software that is built into the workstation. You use console mode and the
console commands for such tasks as:
•

Running workstation self-tests

•

Displaying workstation hardware configurations

•

Setting workstation environmental variables

•

Booting (starting) the operating system

When your workstation is in operating mode, you use your worksystem
software for such activities as:
•

Running applications in DECwindows

•

Backing up files

•

Sending and receiving electronic mail

This manual explains how to use the workstation in console mode. Your
worksystem software manuals explain how to use the workstation in operating
mode.

10.2 Using Console Mode
The workstation starts in console mode and stays in that mode until you start
your worksystem software. While you are in console mode, you can use the
console commands, which are the commands of the built-in setup and testing
software.
You enter console commands at the system console. If you connected only
one monitor to your workstation, that monitor is your system console. If you
connected multiple monitors, the monitor in the TURBOchannel option slot
with the lowest number is the system console. If you have no graphics monitor
or if you have connected a terminal and typed setenv console s, the terminal
is your system console.

10–2 Using the Console Commands

10.2 Using Console Mode

10.2.1 To Enter Console Mode
To enter console mode, do one of the following:
•

If you are using ULTRIX worksystem software, type shutdown -h now at
the ULTRIX prompt and press Return.

•

Press the halt button on the back of the system unit.

•

Turn off the power to the system unit and turn it back on again.
Caution
Be sure that your workstation and any worksystem software are shut
down before you turn off the power or press the halt button. Otherwise,
data may be lost or corrupted.

10.2.2 Console Prompts
When you use console mode, the workstation displays one of these two prompts
on the screen of the system console: >> or R>.
•

The >> prompt means that the workstation is in privileged mode. You can
execute all console commands at the console prompt.

•

The R> prompt means that the workstation is in restricted mode because
someone has set up a password requirement to restrict access to the console
prompt. At the restricted console prompt, you can use only the boot and
passwd console commands until you enter the correct password.
To change the console prompt to (>>), type passwd and press Return. Then
enter the console password and press Return again. If you do not know the
password, contact your system manager or a Digital service representative.

Using the Console Commands 10–3

10.3 Installing a Terminal as an Alternate System Console

10.3 Installing a Terminal as an Alternate System Console
The system console displays error messages and other system messages from
the workstation, from networks, and from the worksystem software. You also
use the system console to enter console commands, such as the cnfg command.
You generally use your workstation monitor in console mode as the
system console. If a monitor is not available, you can use a terminal as
an alternate system console. A terminal can display text only; it cannot display
illustrations, DECwindows, or DECwindows applications; therefore, you cannot
use a terminal as a standard workstation monitor. Some users prefer to
connect both a monitor and a terminal to their workstations. In console mode,
with both a monitor and a terminal configured, the monitor screen displays
graphics tests while the terminal screen displays other tests and text input.
The following instructions describe how to install a terminal and keyboard as a
system console.
Contact your Customer Support Center if you have questions about using a
terminal.

10.3.1 To Install a Terminal as a System Console
1. Follow the instructions that came with your worksystem software to shut
down the software.
2. Turn off the system unit by pressing the O on the On/Off switch on the
back of the system unit.
3. Plug a communications connector adapter into one of the serial
communications connectors on the system unit (communications port 3
is preferred).
4. Find the terminal-to-system-unit cable that came with your terminal.
Notice that it has telephone-jack-type connectors on both ends.
Plug one end of the terminal-to-system-unit cable into the communications
connector adapter (see Figure 10–1).
5. Plug the other end of the terminal-to-system-unit cable into the modular
connector on the back of the terminal.

10–4 Using the Console Commands

10.3 Installing a Terminal as an Alternate System Console

Figure 10–1 Connecting a VT320 terminal to the system unit

Terminal

PMAG-C

0
1

Terminal-to-system-unit cable
WS3PO056

Using the Console Commands 10–5

10.3 Installing a Terminal as an Alternate System Console

6. Find the coiled keyboard cable that came with your terminal. Notice that
it has telephone-jack-type connectors at both ends, and that one end has a
keyboard icon.
Plug the end of the terminal keyboard cable with the keyboard icon into
the connector on the side of the terminal.
7. Plug the other end of the terminal keyboard cable into the modular
connector on the end of the terminal keyboard.
8. Connect a power cord to the terminal and to a power outlet.
9. Turn on the terminal and the system unit and wait for the system self-test
to finish before proceeding. The workstation monitor, rather than the
terminal, is still acting as the system console at this point.

10.3.2 To Activate the Terminal as the System Console
You must set the console environmental variable to s to make the terminal
your system console. The operating system will then be under the control
of the terminal each time you boot the system, until you change the console
environmental variable again.
If you are using a terminal and have no graphics monitor, you need not set the
variable to s because the system will default to the terminal.
1. Follow the instructions that came with your worksystem software to shut
down the software.
2. To activate the terminal as the system console, type setenv console s at
the workstation monitor console prompt and press Return.

10–6 Using the Console Commands

10.3 Installing a Terminal as an Alternate System Console

10.3.3 To Make Your Workstation Monitor the System Console
The workstation monitor is the system console by default. If you have set the
console environmental variable to s, your terminal is currently the system
console. To make your monitor the system console again,
1. Follow the instructions that came with your worksystem software to shut
down the software.
2. Type setenv console * at the console prompt on the terminal and press
Return.
3. Turn off the terminal if you are using the monitor as the system console.
(You need not turn off the terminal in console mode and turn it on again to
boot ULTRIX.)

Using the Console Commands 10–7

10.4 Rules for Console Commands

10.4 Rules for Console Commands
You can use all console commands when the system monitor displays the
console prompt (>>). You can use only the boot and passwd commnds at the
restricted console prompt (R>) until you enter the correct password. Then the
normal console prompt (>>) appears.
To use a console command, type the command as shown, add appropriate
options and arguments, and press Return.
Follow these rules:
•

Type uppercase and lowercase letters exactly as they appear in the manual.
The system recognizes the difference between uppercase and lowercase
letters.

•

Press Return after typing a command.

•

Use these keys:
Ctrl-s to freeze the screen display.
Ctrl-q to release a frozen screen display.
Ctrl-c to abort a command.
Ctrl-u to erase a partially typed command line.
DEL to erase the last character typed.
To use the Ctrl commands, hold down the Ctrl key while you type the
letter of the command. For example, to use Ctrl-s, hold down Ctrl
while you type s.

•

To type a hexadecimal number, precede the number with 0x (zero x). To
type an octal number, precede the number with 0 (zero). To type a decimal
number, do not precede the number with any leading 0s (zeros).

10–8 Using the Console Commands

10.5 Conventions Used

10.5 Conventions Used
•

Letters in boldface type should be typed exactly as they appear.

•

Words in italic type are options or arguments for the commands. You must
replace them with the appropriate information. For example, the script
command has a scriptname argument. When you type the command, you
replace scriptname with the name of the script you are creating.

•

Options are read by the console programs. Arguments are read by the
worksystem software.

•

When options and arguments are shown in brackets, you should use them
only if they are appropriate. When they are not in brackets, you must
always use them. For example, the printenv command is shown like this:
printenv [env]
Because [env] is enclosed in brackets, you should use it only when you
want to display the setting of one environmental variable.
The script command is shown like this:
script scriptname
Because scriptname is not shown in brackets, you must use it in every
script command.
Do not enclose options and arguments in brackets when you type them.
The brackets are just a way of showing you when to use them.

•

When an argument is followed by an ellipsis, you can use more than one
argument with the command.

Using the Console Commands 10–9

10.6 Console Commands

10.6 Console Commands
This section explains all of the console commands for workstation users, system
managers, service representatives, and other technical specialists.
Table 10–1 lists the console commands.
Table 10–1 Console Commands
Command

Function

Displays a list of console commands and formats

boot

Boots the system

cat

Displays scripts

cnfg

Displays system configuration information

Deposits (writes) data into memory

Examines memory contents

erl

Displays a log of error messages

Transfers control to a specific address

init

Resets the system

Displays a list of files present in a module ROM

passwd

Sets and clears the console password

printenv

Prints environmental variables

restart

Restarts the worksystem software

script

Enters a short script at the console

setenv

Sets environmental variables

Starts a script

Starts module diagnostic tests

unsetenv

Removes environmental variables during session

10–10 Using the Console Commands

10.6 Console Commands

To display the help menu, type a question mark (?) and press Return. The
console commands appear in the help menu on the screen as follows:
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
The following subsections describe the console commands in detail. Note that
the command descriptions do not always use the format that appears in the
help menu.

10.6.1 ?
>>? [command]
The ? command displays the help menu. If you enter the name of a specific
command after the ?, the screen displays the help message for that command
only.

10.6.2 boot
The boot command loads and executes the program specified by #/path, where
# is the slot number of the device that you are booting from, and path is the
file specification of the program.
>>boot [OPTIONS] [#/path]
[argument...]
Options are
-a

Use a multiuser bootstrap.

-n

Load but do not execute path program.

-z number

Wait for number seconds, then boot.

Using the Console Commands 10–11

10.6 Console Commands

The -a argument boots for a multiuser environment; to perform a singleuser boot, enter the boot command without the -a argument. The -n option
suppresses execution of the program after it is loaded. The -z option causes the
system to wait before booting. When you enter the command with no options,
path, or argument, the options, path, and argument in the boot environmental
variable are used (see Section 10.7).
The following example of the boot command uses the options and arguments
that you set in the boot environmental variable:

boot
The following command boots from a tape drive in base slot 3 (tz is the device
code of the drive, and 5 is its SCSI ID number):

boot 3/tz5
The following command boots from the network that is connected to your
workstation at option slot 2:

boot 2/mop
The following command performs a multiuser boot (-a) using the file vmunix on
an external drive (rz1) in base slot 3 (rz1 is the device code and SCSI ID for
the drive):

boot 3/rz1/vmunix -a

10.6.3 cat
>>cat #/scriptname
The cat command displays the contents of the script specified by scriptname.
The # option indicates the number of the slot where the script is stored.

10–12 Using the Console Commands

10.6 Console Commands

10.6.4 cnfg
>>cnfg [#]
The cnfg command displays important information about the configuration
of your workstation such as the kind of hardware in the workstation and
connected to it. If you type a slot number for #, the command displays
configuration information for that slot. Otherwise, it displays general
information for all the slots.
The following example shows the display for a cnfg command in which the
specific slot number was not specified. This information shows the kinds
of modules in the base system slot (base slot 3) and in the option slots. The
workstation has option modules in slots 0 and 1, but not in slot 2. The numbers
in black circles correspond to the descriptions that follow.
>>cnfg

3: KN05

DEC

V1.0a

TCF0

0: PMAG-AA
1: PMAD-AA

DEC
DEC

V5.3d
V5.3d

TCF0
TCF0

( 32 MB)
(enet: 08-00-2b-2d-84-c7)
(SCSI = 7)
(CX -- D=8)
(enet: 08-00-2b-0f-45-31)

Slot number.

Model code. This code indicates the model of the hardware item. For
example, KN05 is the model code of the system module.
Module code. This code shows the kind of module installed in the slot.
Slot 3 is the system module slot (often referred to as base slot 3). It
always contains the memory (MB) modules, a base system Ethernet (enet)
controller, and a base system SCSI (SCSI) controller. The MB code shows
the total amount of memory installed in the workstation. The SCSI code
(in this case, 7) is the SCSI ID of the SCSI controller for the slot. The enet
code is the Ethernet address for the Ethernet controller in that slot.
Table 10–2 lists the module codes that may appear in item 3 of the cnfg
display:

Using the Console Commands 10–13

10.6 Console Commands

Table 10–2 Module Codes
Module Code

Description

CX---d=8 or 24

True color frame buffer, where d=8 indicates color
or gray scale, and d=24 indicates ‘‘true’’ color (any
color the eye can see). This module can be installed
in any TURBOchannel option slot.

CXT 8 plane

Smart frame buffer. This module can be installed
in any TURBOchannel option slot.

DA: PXG+---D=8 or 24

Low 3D graphics accelerator, where D=8 indicates
color or gray scale, and D=24 indicates ‘‘true’’
color (any color the eye can see). This module
occupies two adjacent TURBOchannel option slots,
but is connected to the system through the lowernumbered slot.

EA: PXG+---D=8 or 24

Mid 3D graphics accelerator, where D=8 indicates
color or gray scale, and D=24 indicates ‘‘true’’
color (any color the eye can see). This module
occupies two adjacent TURBOchannel option slots,
but is connected to the system through the lowernumbered slot.

enet:

Ethernet controller. A ThickWire Ethernet
controller is built into the base system. Other
Ethernet controllers may be installed in the
TURBOchannel option slots. The 12-character
alphanumeric reference after enet: is a unique
Ethernet station address that identifies the
controller for the network software.

FA: PXGTurbo+

High 3D graphics accelerator. This module occupies
three adjacent TURBOchannel option slots, but
is connected to the system through the lowernumbered slot.

Memory module. The number indicates the
megabytes of memory installed in base slot 3.

MX---D=1

Monochrome frame buffer, where D=1 indicates
black and white. This module can be installed in
any TURBOchannel option slot.

(continued on next page)

10–14 Using the Console Commands

10.6 Console Commands

Table 10–2 (Cont.) Module Codes
Module Code

Description

NVRAM

Nonvolatile random-access memory (RAM) module.
An NVRAM module is an optional module that is
preinstalled in the base system, if purchased for
your workstation. It provides 1 megabyte of battery
backed-up memory that will retain data during a
power failure.

PX---D=8

2D graphics accelerator, where D=8 indicates color
or gray scale. This module can be installed in any
TURBOchannel option slot.

SCSI

SCSI controller. One is built into base slot 3; others
may be installed in the TURBOchannel option slots.

The next example shows a configuration display for a specified option slot. In
this case, it is for the base system slot (slot 3).
The numbers in black circles correspond to the descriptions that follow. Notice
that the first three numbered pieces of information were described in the
previous example. The rest of the display provides details regarding the three
devices and six memory modules that are installed in the base slot.

Using the Console Commands 10–15

10.6 Console Commands

3: KN05

DEC

V1.0a

TCF0

( 32 MB)
(enet: 08-00-2b-2d-84-c7)
(SCSI = 7)

mem( 0):
mem( 1):
mem( 2):
mem( 3):
mem( 4):
mem( 5):
mem( 6):
mem(14):

a0000000: a1ffffff
a2000000: a3ffffff
a4000000: a5ffffff
a6000000: a7ffffff
a8000000: a9ffffff
aa000000: abffffff
ac000000: adffffff
bc000000: bc0fffff

( 32 MB)
( 32 MB)
( 32 MB)
( 32 MB)
( 32 MB)
( 32 MB)
( 32 MB)
( 1 MB)

Presto-NVR

mem(14): clean, batt OK, armed
>>
Slot number.

Model code.
Module code.
Device code with SCSI ID number of the device. For example, in rz4, the
SCSI ID number is 4.
Product ID. Not all devices show a product ID in this column.

Device descriptor, which provides a general description of the device. DIR
indicates direct access drives (diskette and hard disk drives), SEQ indicates
sequential access drives (tape drives), and CD–ROM indicates optical
compact disc drives.

Memory slot number.

Amount of memory in the slot. The amount can be 8 or 32 megabytes for
SIMMs, and 1 megabyte for NVRAM (in memory slot 14 only). All the slots
must have the same amount of memory, except for the NVRAM module.

Status of the NVRAM module.

10–16 Using the Console Commands

10.6 Console Commands

Table 10–3 shows the device codes and device descriptors of SCSI devices, as
indicated in items 4 and 6 of the cnfg display.
Table 10–3 SCSI Device Codes and Descriptors
Device Code

Device Descriptor

Type of Drive

DIR

Diskette

CD–ROM

Optical compact disc

DIR

Hard disk

SEQ

Tape

10.6.5 d
>>d [OPTIONS]
RANGE value
The d, or deposit, command writes values to memory. Values can be stored as
words, halfwords, or bytes. The default option is word. The command writes
the specified value through the range of specified addresses. No intervening
blanks are allowed in an address range.
Options are:
-w

Word (default)

-h

Halfword

-b

Byte

-S count

Repeat deposit count times

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.
Ranges can be:
address

Single address

address:address

Starting and ending address

address#count

Starting address and the number of addresses

range,range

Multiple address ranges separated by commas. Note that no space
follows the comma in an address range.

Using the Console Commands 10–17

10.6 Console Commands

10.6.6 e
>>e [OPTIONS] RANGE
The e, or examine, command examines the contents of memory. Memory can
be examined as words, halfwords, or bytes. The default option is word. The e
command examines values in the range of addresses specified. Options are:
-w

Word (default)

-h

Halfword

-b

Byte

-S count

Repeat examine count times

-x

Display in hexadecimal format

-o

Display in octal format

-u

Display in unsigned decimal format

-d

Display in decimal format

-c

Display as ASCII characters

You can choose how to display the memory data with format options: -x, -o,
-u, -d, and -c. You can use more than one option, in which case the data is
displayed in every format that you choose. If you do not indicate a format, the
system displays the data in hexadecimal format.
The -S option fetches the contents of each address in the address range count
times. The screen displays only the final value in each range. Ranges can be:
address

Single address

address:address

Starting and ending address

address#count

Starting address and number of addresses

range,range

Multiple addresses

Note that no intervening space follows the comma in an address range.

10.6.7 erl
>>erl [-c]
The erl command displays the log of error messages (see Chapter 11). 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.

10–18 Using the Console Commands

10.6 Console Commands

10.6.8 go
>>go [address]
The go command transfers control of the workstation to the specified address.
If you do not specify an address, go uses the execution address returned by the
last boot -n command. If the boot -n command has not been executed and no
address is specified, the system ignores the go command.

10.6.9 init
>>init [#] [argument...]
The init command initializes module hardware. If you specify a slot number
(#), the command initializes the modules in that slot only.
Arguments are specific to each module.

10.6.10 ls
>>ls [#]
The ls (list) command displays a list of the files in a module ROM. If you do
not specify a slot number (#), the command lists the files for all modules.

10.6.11 passwd
>>passwd [OPTIONS]
The passwd command enters, sets, or clears your console password. Options
are:
-s

Set a new console password

-c

Clear the console password

The console password keeps unauthorized people from using the console
commands on your workstation. You do not need to use the password if
security is not an issue in your workplace.
When you first set up your workstation, you do not need a console password.
The only way that a console password can be required is if you choose to start
using one.1

The console password is not the same as the passwords required by your worksystem
software or networks. The console password protects your workstation hardware by
controlling access to the console commands.

Using the Console Commands 10–19

10.6 Console Commands

To start using a console password, type passwd -s and press Return. The
system displays a prompt (pwd:) asking you to type the password that you
want to use. Type a word with at least six characters. You can use letters
and numbers; the system recognizes the difference between uppercase and
lowercase letters.
The system displays the pwd: prompt twice. Type the same password each
time. For security reasons, the screen does not display what you type, so
choose a password that is easy to remember.
Once you choose a password, the system displays the restricted console prompt
when you first start your workstation:
R>
At this prompt, you can only boot your worksystem software or enter your
console password.
•

Boot your worksystem software. Type boot and press Return. This is
the only boot command that you can use. It has no options or arguments.
It uses the values that you set in the boot environmental variable (see
Section 10.7). If you have not set the variable, the command does not work.

•

Enter your console password. Type passwd and press Return. Then type
your console password at the pwd: prompt. The screen does not display
what you type.

After you enter your console password, the prompt changes to the standard
console prompt (>>). You can now use all the console commands that are
described in this chapter.
To stop using your console password, type passwd -c at the standard console
prompt and press Return. You will then have unrestricted access to the console
commands.

10.6.12 printenv
>>printenv [env]
The printenv command displays the values of environmental variables. If you
specify the name of an environmental variable, the command displays the
value of only that variable. See Section 10.7.

10–20 Using the Console Commands

10.6 Console Commands

10.6.13 restart
>>restart
The restart command attempts to restart the worksystem software. This
command relies on a restart facility that you must enable in the worksystem
software.

10.6.14 script
>>script scriptname
The script command allows you to write a short temporary script at the system
console. A script is a miniprogram. After you write the script, you can run it
with the sh command, or you can type the name (scriptname) of the script by
itself at the console prompt to execute the script.
To write a script, type script followed by a name for the script and press
Return. Then write the script line by line. When you are done, go to a new
line and press Return.

10.6.15 setenv
>>setenv env value
The setenv command sets the value of an environmental variable. You must
enclose the command in double quotation marks if value contains blank spaces.
See Section 10.7.

10.6.16 sh
>>sh [OPTIONS] [#/scriptname]
[argument...]
The sh, or shell, command activates, or runs, a script. Replace # with the slot
number of the module that contains the script. Options are:
-e

Exit on error.

-b

Branch to script.

-v

Verbose; echo to console.

-S

Suppress script-not-found errors.

-l

Execute in a loop. (This option is the letter ‘‘el,’’ not the number
one.)

Using the Console Commands 10–21

10.6 Console Commands

If you specify a script name for the scriptname option, the script is used as the
input. Otherwise, what you type at the console is the input, and a subshell is
created. When you run a shell script, environmental variable 0 is set to the
script name, 1 is set to the first argument in the script, 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 setting 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 you press
Ctrl-c.

10.6.17 t
>>t [OPTIONS] #/testname
[argument...]
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. Option is:
-l

Execute in a loop

The -l option makes the test run continuously until a system reset occurs or
you press Ctrl-c.
If the t command is part of a script, the system console displays #/testname as
each test runs.
To display the tests and test formats for a specific module, type t #/?, where #
is the slot number of the module.
Type test to run the script that performs a thorough test of the entire system.
Typing test is a shorthand way of typing sh 3/test. If you type sh -l 3/test,
the test runs continuously.

10.6.18 unsetenv
>>unsetenv env
The unsetenv command removes a standard environmental variable during
the current session. When the system is reset, the values of the standard
environmental variables revert to their previously set values.
When you enter the command, replace variable with the name of the
environmental variable that you want to remove (see Section 10.7).

10–22 Using the Console Commands

10.6 Console Commands

10.7 Environmental Variables
Environmental variables store system parameters and scripts and pass
information to the operating system. Some environmental variables persist;
others are lost when you turn off the power.
Table 10–4 summarizes the console commands for setting environmental
variables. Table 10–5 lists the standard environmental variables that you can
set.
Table 10–4 Console Commands for Environmental Variables
Command

Description

printenv

Displays the value of environmental variables

setenv

Sets the value of an environmental variable

unsetenv

Deletes the value of an environmental variable

Using the Console Commands 10–23

10.7 Environmental Variables

Table 10–5 Environmental Variables Set by User
boot1

Specifies arguments for the boot command.
1

console

Chooses the system console. You normally do not set this variable.
Any setting except s, including the default ‘‘blank’’ setting, selects
autoconfiguration and makes your monitor and monitor keyboard the
system console. Autoconfiguration makes the monitor in the lowestnumbered option slot the system console. If the workstation has no
monitor connected to a graphics module, communications connector 3
becomes the system console slot.
To activate a terminal as an alternate system console, set console to
s. Set console to * to make your graphics monitor the system console
again.
To display the language menu on the system console, set console to zero.
If more than one monitor is connected to the system unit, the monitor
in the lowest-numbered slot is the system console.

haltaction1

Specifies what happens when you press the halt button or turn on the
power:
b

Boots the worksystem software, as specified by the boot
environmental variable.

Halts the worksystem software and displays the console prompt.

Restarts the worksystem software. If the restart fails, boots the
software.

Specifies the greatest number of lines of text that can fit on the screen
at one time. When text scrolls on the screen, the system stops the
scrolling at the number of lines that you set. If you set the number to
zero, the text scrolls continuously.

testaction1

Controls the power-up self-test:

Specifies a thorough (but slow) testing of the system.

Specifies a quicker but less thorough test.

Specifies manufacturing tests. Do not use this setting.

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

1 These environmental variables persist in memory until you delete them.

There are other environmental variables. Some, like oconsole, should not be
changed. Others can be set as implementation-specific side effects of various
bootstrap and test procedures.

10–24 Using the Console Commands

11
Troubleshooting
This chapter describes:
•

Help within this manual

•

Checking the LED display

•

Checking hardware connections

•

Using the system self-test

•

Interpreting self-test messages

•

Contacting the Customer Support Center

Troubleshooting 11–1

11.1 Where to Look in This Manual for Help

11.1 Where to Look in This Manual for Help
•

If some part of your workstation fails to turn on, check the LED display
(see Section 11.2).

•

If the workstation turns on, but a component does not function properly,
check for correct connections (see Section 11.3).

•

If the workstation turns on and everything is connected, but the
workstation still does not function properly, use the full system self-test
(see Section 11.4).

11.2 Checking the LED Display
An indicator light on each hardware component of your workstation shows
whether the unit has power or not. In addition, eight small, red diagnostic
LED lights on the back of the system unit indicate whether or not the basic
components of the workstation are ready to use.
If the workstation is not functioning and no error messages appear on the
monitor, check the power indicator lights and the diagnostic LED display.
The on/off pattern of the LED display indicates which portion of the power-up
self-test failed.

11–2 Troubleshooting

11.2 Checking the LED Display

Figure 11–1 Indicator light and LED display

d i g
i t a
l

DECstatio

n 5000

Power indicator light

d i g
i t a
l

PMAG-C

0
PMAZ-A

1
2

PMAD-A

3
2

Eight red diagnostic
LED lights
WS3PO060

Troubleshooting 11–3

11.2 Checking the LED Display

Table 11–1 shows you how to interpret the LED display codes. The codes are
shown in the order in which the tests run, so you can determine which subtests
ran successfully and at what point the test failed.
If the LED display indicates a problem with your workstation, try the
suggestion provided for that LED code. If no specific suggestion is given, or if
the suggested procedure does not solve the problem, try reinstalling the CPU
module and the memory modules on the base system module. Then restart the
workstation. If the problem persists, call your system manager or the Digital
Customer Support Center.
Table 11–1 Interpreting the LED Codes
LED
Code

Meaning

Workstation hardware initialization could not begin.
Workstation firmware initialization could not be completed.
Firmware could not initialize the input-output subsystem on the system
module to a known state. The input-output subsystem controls the Ethernet
and SCSI interfaces, as well as the keyboard, mouse, and other serial-line
communications.
Memory slot 0 could not be initialized. Try replacing the memory module in
memory slot 0 (see Chapter 9 ).
Firmware could not calculate the cache size. Try reinstalling the CPU module
(see Chapter 9 ).
Firmware could not calibrate the millisecond delay loop. Try reinstalling the
CPU module (see Chapter 9 ).
Firmware could not configure the system. Try reinstalling the CPU module
and all memory modules (see Chapter 9 ).
If the workstation turns on, all workstation components have been initialized,
and the workstation is ready for use. If the workstation does not turn on,
a device or module is not connected properly or is broken. Make sure that
all cables are securely attached and that all external components of the
workstation have been installed properly and are plugged into a power source.

Legend:

Light is off.
Light is on.

(continued on next page)

11–4 Troubleshooting

11.2 Checking the LED Display

Table 11–1 (Cont.) Interpreting the LED Codes
LED
Code

Meaning
The system console programs could not be initialized. The lights on the left
show the slot number of the module with the problem, from slot number 0
(Off Off Off Off) to slot number 3 (Off Off On On). Try reinstalling the option
module in the slot indicated by the LED code. If the problem is in the base
slot (slot 3), try reinstalling the CPU module and all memory modules (see
Chapter 9 ).
A read-only memory (ROM) object could not be loaded. This could be a portion
of the system module, system firmware, or firmware for an option module.
The lights on the left show the slot number of the module with the problem,
from slot number 0 (Off Off Off Off) to slot number 3 (Off Off On On). Try
reinstalling the option module in the slot indicated by the LED code. If the
problem is in the base slot (slot 3), try reinstalling the CPU module and all
memory modules (see Chapter 9 ).
The workstation was initialized, but there is a problem in the system module
or one of the option modules. The lights on the left show the slot number
of the module with the problem, from slot number 0 (Off Off Off Off) to slot
number 3 (Off Off On On). Type erl at the console prompt >> to display any
error messages relating to the problem. Then and look up the error message in
Table 11–3 to interpret the message.
The worksystem software could not be loaded. The lights on the left show the
slot number of the module where the software is stored, from slot number 0
(Off Off Off Off) to slot number 3 (Off Off On On). Check to make sure that
the device on which the software is stored has power, is properly connected to
the system unit, and has a unique SCSI ID (see Chapter 5). If the problem
persists, try reinstalling the SCSI controller module in the slot indicated by
the LED code. If the problem is in the base slot (slot 3), try reinstalling the
CPU module and all memory modules (see Chapter 9).

Legend:

Light is off.
Light is on.

Troubleshooting 11–5

11.3 Is It Connected Properly?

11.3 Is It Connected Properly?
Table 11–2 lists some problems that new users may have, and some problems
that may occur after new hardware has been installed. Many of these problems
can be solved easily by following the suggestions in the table. If these solutions
do not resolve the problem, see Section 11.4.
Table 11–2 Solutions to Common Problems
Problem

Solution

Amount of memory in
the cnfg 3 display is
incorrect.

1. Note the slot location and size of each memory module listed in

the cnfg 3 display and compare it to the actual memory module
in the specified system unit memory slot. Reinstall any memory
modules that do not appear in the display (see Chapter 9).

2. If the problem persists, type t 3/mem * at the console prompt and
see Section 11.5 to interpret the test results.

The NVRAM module
you ordered does not
appear in the cnfg 3
display.

1. Turn off your workstation.
2. Check to make sure that the NVRAM module is installed in
memory slot 14.

3. Reinstall the NVRAM module (see Chapter 9).
4. Turn on your workstation and try the cnfg 3 command again.
The status of the
NVRAM module in
the cnfg 3 display is
not clean, batt OK,
armed.

See the NVRAM chapter in the TURBOchannel Options User’s Guide
for an explanation.

(continued on next page)

11–6 Troubleshooting

11.3 Is It Connected Properly?

Table 11–2 (Cont.) Solutions to Common Problems
Problem

Solution

A TURBOchannel
module for your
workstation does not
appear in the cnfg
display.

1. If the missing module is a TCE option module, check to see if the
option module in the TCE (to which it is connected) is displayed.
The cnfg display only lists the module in the TCE—not the TCE
option module in the system unit.

2. Check to make sure that you specified the correct slot number for
the missing module in the cnfg command.

3. Reinstall the missing option module (see Chapter 9).
An external drive does
not appear in the cnfg
display.

1. Check to make sure that you specified the correct slot number for
the missing drive in the cnfg command.

2. Turn off the workstation.
3. Make sure that the external device in which the missing drive is
located is turned on and connected to an active power source.

4. Make sure that the external device in which the drive is installed
is properly connected to your workstation (see Chapter 5).

5. Make sure that the missing drive has a unique SCSI ID from
0 to 6 (see Chapter 5).

6. If the missing drive is in a TCE or BA42 expansion box, reinstall
the drive inside the box (see the BA42 Installation Guide or
TURBOchannel Extender Operator’s Guide).

7. Turn on your workstation and try the cnfg command again.
8. Remove all the devices except for the one that was missing.

If that device appears, you may have a SCSI cabling or a
termination problem or one of the other devices may be faulty.
If the device is still missing, then that device is bad.
(continued on next page)

Troubleshooting 11–7

11.3 Is It Connected Properly?

Table 11–2 (Cont.) Solutions to Common Problems
Problem

Solution

The screen is blank.

1. Press any key on your keyboard. If your screen saver was active,
the display will reappear. (This applies only if the operating
system is running. There is no screen saver at the console level.)

2. Make sure that the system unit and monitor are turned on.
3. Adjust the brightness and contrast controls.
4. Turn off the system unit and monitor.
5. Make sure that the system unit power cord and the monitor-to-

system-unit power cable or the monitor power cord are connected
correctly.

6. Make sure that the video cable is securely connected to the
monitor and system unit.

7. Make sure that your monitor is compatible with your graphics

module (see the TURBOchannel Options User’s Guide discussion
of your graphics module or monitor).

8. Turn on the system unit and monitor.
The screen display is
distorted or unstable.

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

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

3. Make sure that your monitor is compatible with your graphics

module (see the TURBOchannel Options User’s Guide discussion
on your graphics module or monitor).

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

11–8 Troubleshooting

11.3 Is It Connected Properly?

Table 11–2 (Cont.) Solutions to Common Problems
Problem
Color is distorted or
unclear.

Solution

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

2. 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.

3. See the manuals for your monitor for further troubleshooting
instructions.

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

1. Shut down your worksystem software and turn off the system
unit and monitor.

2. Make sure that the video cable connectors are attached to the
monitor correctly. (See Chapter 1.)

3. Turn on the system unit and monitor.
The DIGITAL logo is
red instead of blue on
the login screen on your
color monitor.

1. Shut down your worksystem software and turn off the system
unit and monitor.

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

3. Unplug the cable connector. Holding the cable connector so that
the widest part of the connector is on top, reattach the cable
connector to the system unit.

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

Troubleshooting 11–9

11.3 Is It Connected Properly?

Table 11–2 (Cont.) Solutions to Common Problems
Problem
Nothing happens on the
screen when you type.

Solution

1. Check the Hold Screen indicator light on the keyboard. If the

light glows green and ULTRIX is running, press the Hold Screen
key. If you are at the console, press Ctrl/Q.

2. Shut down your worksystem software, if necessary, and turn off
the system unit. To run shutdown, log into the system over the
net and run shutdown remotely. Otherwise, halt the system.

3. Disconnect the keyboard cable from its connector on the keyboardmouse connector block and then reconnect it.

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

5. Turn off the system unit and monitor, connect another keyboard,
and turn on the system unit and monitor again.

You cannot connect to
your networks, and you
know the worksystem
and network software
are functioning.

1. Shut down your worksystem software and turn off the system
unit.

2. Make sure that the Ethernet connectors on the system unit are
attached correctly (see Chapter 6). If you are using adapters
to connect ThinWire or twisted-pair Ethernet cable to your
workstation, check those connectors, too.

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

11–10 Troubleshooting

11.3 Is It Connected Properly?

Table 11–2 (Cont.) Solutions to Common Problems
Problem
No cursor appears on
the screen.

Solution

1. Check the Hold Screen indicator light on the keyboard. If the

light glows green and ULTRIX is running, press the Hold Screen
key. If you are at the console, press Ctrl/Q.

2. Move the mouse around on your desktop, or move the puck or

stylus around on your tablet, to see if you accidentally moved the
cursor off the screen.

3. Shut down your worksystem software and turn off the system

unit. To run shutdown, log into the system over the net and run
shutdown remotely. Otherwise, halt the system.

4. Make sure that the mouse cable is correctly connected to the

keyboard-mouse connector blocks, and the keyboard-mouse cable
is correctly connected to the system unit.

5. Turn on the system unit.
6. If the problem persists, install another mouse or tablet.
The cursor on the
screen fails to follow
the movement of your
pointing device (mouse,
puck, or stylus).

1. Shut down your worksystem software and turn off the system
unit.

2. Make sure that the cable for the device is connected securely to
the keyboard-mouse connector block and to the device itself.

3. Turn on the system unit.
4. If the problem persists, install another pointing device.
(continued on next page)

Troubleshooting 11–11

11.3 Is It Connected Properly?

Table 11–2 (Cont.) Solutions to Common Problems
Problem

Solution

You cannot install
worksystem software
from an external storage
device.

If you have only one external storage device,

1. Make sure that the device is turned on and the power outlet it is
plugged into has power.

2. Use the cnfg command to determine whether the workstation lists
the device.

3. If the device is missing from the display, turn off the device and
the system unit and check the following:
•

Make sure that the SCSI expansion cable is correctly
connected to the device and to the system unit.

•

Make sure that a terminator is correctly attached to the
second SCSI connector on the device (unless the device is a
TCE, which has an internal SCSI terminator).

•

Check the SCSI ID switch settings or SCSI ID display
window on the device to make sure that the SCSI ID is
unique and within the range 0 to 6. If not, change the SCSI
ID accordingly. See Chapter 5.

4. Turn on the device and the system unit.
If the problem persists, refer to the manual that came with the
device and to the installation guide for your workstation software.
(continued on next page)

11–12 Troubleshooting

11.3 Is It Connected Properly?

Table 11–2 (Cont.) Solutions to Common Problems
Problem

Solution
If you have more than one external storage device,

1. Make sure that all the devices are turned on and the power
outlets they are plugged into are active.

2. Type cnfg and the number of the slot in which the device is
connected.

If the device 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. Then check the following:
•

Make sure that the SCSI cables are connected to all the
devices in the chain and to the system unit. The SCSI cables
between devices should be 18-inch Digital cables.

•

Make sure that a terminator is correctly attached to the
second SCSI connector on the last device in the chain (unless
the device is a TCE, which has an internal SCSI terminator).

•

Check the SCSI ID switch settings or SCSI ID display
window on all devices in the chain to make sure that the
SCSI ID of the missing device is unique and within the
range 0 to 6. If not, change the SCSI ID accordingly (see
Chapter 5).

3. Make sure that you attached no more than three expansion boxes

to a single SCSI connector. If you attached more than this, you
may have exceeded the total allowable cable length for a single
SCSI connector (236 inches or 6 meters) for all SCSI cabling.
(Table 5–1 provides a table with SCSI cable lengths for each
expansion box and explains how to calculate the total cable length
for a group of expansion boxes.)

4. Turn on the system unit and the devices.
If the problem persists, refer to the manual that came with the
device and to the installation guide for your workstation software.
A red light blinks
rapidly on the front
of your TK50Z tape
drive.

1. Push the load/unload button four times.
2. Turn the tape drive off and on once.
(continued on next page)

Troubleshooting 11–13

11.3 Is It Connected Properly?

Table 11–2 (Cont.) Solutions to Common Problems
Problem

Solution

Nothing happens when
you try to use your
printer.

1. Make sure that the printer is turned on.
2. Check your worksystem and communications software to be sure
that the device is installed and enabled properly.

3. Check your system software to be sure that the printer is
installed in the software.

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

5. Make sure that the printer power cord is connected to a live
power source.

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

7. Turn on the system unit and the printer.
If the problem persists, see the manuals for your printer.
Nothing happens
when you try to use a
communications device.

1. Make sure that the device is turned on.
2. Shut down your worksystem software, if necessary, and turn off
the device and the system unit.

3. Make sure that the device power cord is connected to an active
power source.

4. Make sure that the connector on the communications device cable
is correctly attached to the communications connector or the
communications connector adapter on the system unit.

5. Make sure that the right type of cable is connected to the device.
Check the guide that came with the device to determine the
proper cables.

6. Turn on the system unit and the device.
If the problem persists, see the manuals for the device.

11–14 Troubleshooting

11.4 Using a Full System Self-Test

11.4 Using a Full System Self-Test
If your workstation components have power and all components seem to be
properly connected, but the workstation still does not function properly, try
running a full system self-test. To do this, you must first shut down your
ULTRIX worksystem software by typing shutdown -h now at the ULTRIX
prompt and pressing Return. Then, at the console prompt (>>), type test and
press Return.
For more complete instructions on how to run a self-test, see Section 3.3.

Troubleshooting 11–15

11.5 Interpreting Self-Test Messages

11.5 Interpreting Self-Test Messages
Self-tests display error messages when they discover problems in the hardware.
The number after ?TFL: is the slot number of the module that has a problem.
•

If 0, 1, or 2 follows ?TFL:, the problem is in the TURBOchannel option
slot with the same number. For troubleshooting instructions, see
the TURBOchannel Options User’s Guide chapter that discusses the
TURBOchannel module installed in that slot.

•

If 3 follows ?TFL:, the problem is in the base system hardware. Copy the
messages and then see Table 11–3 for a possible remedy to the problem. If
you cannot fix it, call the Digital Customer Support Center.

The following is a typical error message. Numbers in black circles correspond
to the descriptions below.

?TFL: 3/ni/promisc (903: LANCE-start timeout.) [KN05]
Test failure message. You can fix problems when the error message begins
with TFL.

Slot number of the hardware that reported a problem. If the slot number
in the error message is 3, see Table 11–3 for an explanation of the error
message.
Subtest that found the problem.
Part of the subtest that found the problem. Some messages do not have
this information.
Explanation of the problem.

ID of the module in the slot.

Table 11–3 Self-Test Error Messages for the Base System Slot
cache/data
cache/fill
cache/isol
cache/reload
cache/seg

The random-access memory (RAM) cache in the CPU module is faulty. Copy
the entire message and call your system manager or Customer Support Center.

(continued on next page)

11–16 Troubleshooting

11.5 Interpreting Self-Test Messages

Table 11–3 (Cont.) Self-Test Error Messages for the Base System Slot
ecc

The error correction or detection logic is faulty. This indicates a bad CPU
module, memory module, or base system module. Reseat the CPU module, all
memory modules, and the base system module; if the problem persists, replace
the memory module in slot 0 (see Chapter 9 ). If the message reappears, copy
the entire message and call your system manager or the Customer Support
Center.

fpu

The math coprocessor in the CPU module is faulty. Copy the entire message
and call your system manager or Customer Support Center.

mem

Random-access memory (RAM) is faulty. Make sure that all the memory
modules are firmly seated in their connectors in the system unit and then
run the memory test. Type t 3/mem * and press Return. The memory test
checks every memory module, taking several minutes for each one. If it finds
a problem, it displays a message with one of the following formats, where
slot-number indicates where the faulty memory module is installed.

?TFL: 3/mem (1:board slot-number, MBE= number, SBE= number
?TFL: 3/mem (2:board slot-number, too many SBEs: number
Remove or replace the faulty memory module (see Chapter 9). You must retain
at least 16 megabytes of memory for your workstation to operate correctly.
After removing or replacing all faulty memory modules, run the memory test
again. If the test still reports a problem, copy the entire message and call your
system manager or Customer Support Center.
mem/float10,
mem/init,
mem/select

A memory module is faulty. Copy the entire message and call your system
manager or Customer Support Center.

misc/halt

The halt button or the built-in halt program is faulty. Copy the entire message
and call your system manager or Customer Support Center.

misc/kbd

The keyboard, keyboard cable, or connectors are faulty. Make sure that the
cable is connected properly (see Chapter 1). Then turn the system unit off and
on. If the test message appears again, try replacing first the keyboard cable
and then the keyboard. If the message still appears, copy the entire message
and call your system manager or Customer Support Center.

misc/mouse

The mouse, mouse cable, or connector is faulty. Make sure that the cable is
connected properly (see Chapter 1). Then turn the system unit off and on
again. If the test message appears again, replace the mouse. If the message
still appears, copy the entire message and call your system manager or
Customer Support Center.
(continued on next page)

Troubleshooting 11–17

11.5 Interpreting Self-Test Messages

Table 11–3 (Cont.) Self-Test Error Messages for the Base System Slot
misc/pstemp

The flow of air through the system unit is inadequate, or the temperature in
your office is more than 104°F (40°C). Make sure that there is a space of at
least 4 inches (10 centimeters) between the vents in the system unit cover
and other items on your work table. Then turn the system unit off, wait a
moment, and turn it on. If the message appears again, turn off the system
unit, copy the entire message, and call your system manager or Customer
Support Center.

misc/wbpart

The CPU module or system memory is faulty. Copy the entire message and
call your system manager or Customer Support Center.

ni/cllsn
ni/common
ni/crc
ni/ctrs
ni/dma1
ni/dma2
ni/int
ni/int-lb
ni/m-cst
ni/promisc
ni/regs
ni/setup

The Ethernet controller in the base system slot is faulty. If your workstation
is connected to a network, disconnect from the network, attach a loopback
connector, and retry the test. If the message reappears, copy the entire
message and call your system manager or Customer Support Center.

ni/esar

The base system Ethernet address chip is faulty. Copy the entire message and
call your system manager or Customer Support Center.

ni/ext-lb

The built-in Ethernet connector in the base system slot or the loopback
connector attached to the Ethernet connector is faulty. Replace the loopback
connector, if there is one, or make sure that the network cable is connected
properly (see Chapter 6). If the test message appears again, copy the entire
message and call your system manager or Customer Support Center.

prcache

The NVRAM module is faulty; reinstall it (see Chapter 9). If the message
reappears, copy the entire message and call your system manager or Customer
Support Center.

rtc/nvr
rtc/period
trc/regs
rtc/time

Interrupt handling or timekeeping in the system module is faulty. Copy the
entire message and call your system manager or Customer Support Center.

sache/data

The secondary cache on the CPU daughter card is faulty. Copy the entire
message and call your system manager or Customer Support Center.

scc/access
scc/dma

The controller for a communications connector is faulty. Copy the entire
message and call your system manager or Customer Support Center.
(continued on next page)

11–18 Troubleshooting

11.5 Interpreting Self-Test Messages

Table 11–3 (Cont.) Self-Test Error Messages for the Base System Slot
scc/int

The controller for a communications device fails to interrupt the communications signals when appropriate. Copy the entire message and call your system
manager or Customer Support Center.

scc/io

The controller for one of the communications connectors, the connector itself,
or a cable attached to the connector is faulty. Make sure that the cables to all
your communications devices are plugged in. Then turn the system unit off
and on. Copy the entire message and call your system manager or Customer
Support Center.

scc/pins

One of the communications connectors is faulty. If the message appears,
copy the entire message and call your system manager or Customer Support
Center.

scc/tx-rx

The controller for one of the communications connectors, the connector itself,
or a cable attached to the connector is faulty. Make sure that the cables to all
your communications devices are plugged in. Then turn the system unit off
and on. If the message appears again, copy the entire message and call your
system manager or Customer Support Center.

scsi/cntl

The controller for the base system SCSI connector is faulty. Turn the system
unit off and on. If the test message appears again, copy the entire message
and call your system manager or Customer Support Center. Note that you can
still use the SCSI connectors in the option slots.

scsi/sdiag

A SCSI device connected to the base system SCSI controller is faulty, or one
of the SCSI cables that is connected to a device in that slot is faulty. Make
sure that all SCSI cables are plugged in securely. If you connected a chain
of external devices to the slot, make sure that the last device has a SCSI
terminator in the unused SCSI connector. Then turn the system unit off and
on. If the test message appears again, copy the entire message and call your
system manager or Customer Support Center. Note that you can still use the
SCSI connectors in the option slots.

scsi/target

One of the devices connected to the base system SCSI controller is not reading
or writing data properly. Make sure that all SCSI cables are plugged in
securely. If you connected a chain of external devices to the slot, make sure
that the last device has a SCSI terminator in the unused SCSI connector.
Then turn the system unit off and on. If the test message appears again,
copy the entire message and call your system manager or Customer Support
Center. Note that you can still use the SCSI connectors in the option slots.

tlb/prb
tlb/reg

The CPU module is faulty. Copy the entire message and call your system
manager or Customer Support Center.

Troubleshooting 11–19

11.6 Contacting Your Customer Support Center

11.6 Contacting Your Customer Support Center
If you follow the recommendations in this chapter and you still have a problem,
call your Customer Support Center.
The service representative in the center will ask you several questions; be
prepared to answer them.
•

What kind of workstation do you have?
What is its serial number?
How much memory does it have?
What kind of monitor is connected to it?
What internal drives does it have?
What external storage devices and other options does it have?

•

What is wrong?

•

What error messages were displayed?

•

What was the on/off pattern of lights in the diagnostic LED display?

•

Did you try to fix the problem yourself? If so, what did you do?

The service representative will try to help you fix the problem while you are on
the telephone, so make your call from a telephone near the workstation.

11–20 Troubleshooting

Part V
Appendixes

A
Equipment Specifications
A.1 DECstation 5000 Model 260 System Unit Equipment
Specifications
Table A–1 System Unit Description
Weight

12.7 to 22.7 kg (28.0 to 50.0 lb)

Height

9.1 cm (3.6 in)

Width

51.1 cm (20.1 in)

Depth

43.4 cm (17.1 in)

Input voltage

Auto adjust 100–120 Vac or 220–240 Vac

Input current

5 A at 100–120 Vac
2.4 A at 220–240 Vac

Power
– Frequency

50 to 60 Hz

– Heat dissipation

359 w, maximum

Equipment Specifications A–1

A.1 DECstation 5000 Model 260 System Unit Equipment Specifications

Table A–2 System Unit Operating Conditions
Temperature range1

10°C to 35°C (50°F to 95°F)

Temperature change rate

11°C (20°F) per hour, maximum

Relative humidity

10% to 90%, noncondensing

Maximum wet-bulb temperature

28°C (82°F)

Minimum dew-point temperature

2°C (36°F)

Altitude

2400 m (8000 ft) maximum

1 Reduce maximum temperature by 1.8°C for each 1,000 meter (1.0°F for each 1,000 ft) increase in
altitude.

Table A–3 System Unit Nonoperating Conditions
Temperature range

40°C to 66°C ( 40°F to 151°F)

Relative humidity

10% to 95%, noncondensing

Maximum wet-bulb temperature

46°C (115°F), packaged

Altitude

4877 m (16,000 ft) maximum

Table A–4 Acoustics—Preliminary Declared Values per ISO 9296 and ISO
7779
LWAd

LpAm (operator position)

Idle

4.8 bels

32 dBA

Operating

4.8 bels

32 dBA

A–2 Equipment Specifications

B
Connector Pin Assignments
This appendix lists pin assignments for the following connectors:
•

SCSI cable

•

Keyboard and mouse or tablet

•

Communications

•

ThickWire Ethernet

•

Power supply

•

Modem loopback

•

Ethernet loopback

It also provides a summary of loopback connectors.

Connector Pin Assignments B–1

Table B–1 SCSI Cable Connector Pin Assignments
Pin

Signal

I/O

GND

REQ

GND

C/O

GND

SEL

GND

MSG

GND

RST

GND

ACK

GND

BSY

GND

43
42
41

GND
ATN

GND

RSVD

GND

TERMPWR

RSVD

GND

PARITY

GND

DATA<7>

GND

DATA<6>

GND

DATA<5>

GND

DATA<4>

GND

DATA<3>

GND

DATA<2>

GND

DATA<1>

GND

DATA<0>

GND

B–2 Connector Pin Assignments

Table B–2 Keyboard and Mouse or Tablet Connector Pin Assignments
Pin

Signal

Description

GND

Ground

KEY.TX

Keyboard transmitted data

KEY.RX

Keyboard received data

+12V

Keyboard/tablet power

GND

Ground

MSE.RX

Mouse received data

MSE.TX

Mouse transmitted data

GND

Ground

GND

Ground

+5V

Mouse power

–12V

Mouse power

GND

Ground

Source

Keyboard

Mouse/Tablet

Connector Pin Assignments B–3

Table B–3 Communications Connectors Pin Assignments
Pin

Source

Signal

CCITT1

EIA2

Description

GND

102

Signal ground

KNO5A-AA

103

Modem transmitted data

Modem/printer

104

Modem received data

KNO5A-AA

RTS

105

Request to send

Modem/printer

CTS

106

Clear to send

Modem/printer

DSR

107

Data set ready

GND

102

Signal ground

109

Carrier detector

7
8

Modem/printer

Unconnected

11
12

Unconnected
Modem/printer

112

SPDMI

Unconnected

Modem/printer

TxCk
(DCE)

114

16
17

Unconnected
Modem/printer

RxCk
(DEC)

115

Modem transmit clock
Unconnected

19
20

Modem transmit clock

Unconnected
KNO5A-AA

DTR

108.2

Data terminal ready
Unconnected

Modem/printer

125

Ring indicator

KNO5A-AA

111

DSRS

Unconnected

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

(continued on next page)

B–4 Connector Pin Assignments

Table B–3 (Cont.) Communications Connectors Pin Assignments
Pin

Source

Signal

CCITT1

EIA2

Description

Unconnected

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

Table B–4 ThickWire Ethernet Connector Pin Assignments
Pin

Source

Signal

Description
Shield

XCVR

ACOL+

Collision presence

KNO5A-AA

ATX+

Transmission

GND

Ground

XCVR

ARX+

Reception

XCVR

GND

Power return

CTL+

Control output

7
8

GND

Ground

XCVR

ACOL–

Collision presence

KNO5A-AA

ATX–

Transmission

GND

Ground

11
12

XCVR

ARX–

Reception

KNO5A-AA

+12V

Power

GND

Ground

CTL–

Control output

Connector Pin Assignments B–5

Table B–5 Power Supply Pin Assignments
Pin

Signal

Wire Gauge

+12 volt

Ground

–12 volt

Ground

POK

Warning

Table B–6 Modem Loopback Connector Pin Assignments
From
Pin No.

Signal

To
Pin No.

Signal

P4-2

TX2

P4-3

RX2

P4-4

RTS2

P4-5

CTS2

P4-6

DSR2

P4-20

DTR2

P4-12

SPDMI2

P4-23

DSRS2

P4-18

LLPBK2

P4-8

CI2

P4-18

LLPBK2

P4-22

RI2

P4-18

LLPBK2

P4-25

TMI2

Table B–7 Ethernet Loopback Connector Pin Assignments
From
Pin No.

Signal

To
Pin No.

Signal

Description

P6-3

TRA+

P6-5

REC+

Through capacitor

P6-10

TRA–

P6-12

REC–

Through capacitor

P6-13

PWR

P6-6

RET

Through resistor and LED

B–6 Connector Pin Assignments

Table B–8 Summary of Loopback Connectors
Standard/
Function

Unique

Option Number

Communications loopback
connector

Standard

H3200

ThickWire loopback
connector

Standard

N/A

ThinWire T-connector

Standard

H8223

ThinWire terminator

Standard

H8225

Connector Pin Assignments B–7

C
Regulatory Information for the United
Kingdom
This appendix provides information on the Personal DECstation 5000
workstation that is required by the United Kingdom.
•

Service Requirements

•

Approvals for Digital Circuits

•

Host Independent Approvals

•

Host Power Rating

•

Apparatus Between the Approved Apparatus and a Digital Circuit (PTT)

The Personal DECstation 5000 workstation is manufactured by Digital
Equipment Corporation. The model number of the communication option is
PMBA-AA.

Regulatory Information for the United Kingdom C–1

C.1 Service Requirements

C.1 Service Requirements
The following table describes the service category, interface type, data rate,
physical and electrical requirements, and PTO for the PMBA-AA.
Table C–1 PMBA-AA Service Requirements
Service
Category

Data Rate

Physical
Requirements

Electrical
Requirements

PTO
BT1 /Hull2 /
MCL3

CCITT

2400

ISO 2110

V.24/V.28

Yes/Yes/Yes

Recommend

4800

X.21bis

9600

BS.6623:

Cable:

Yes/Yes/Yes

19200

Part 1 1985

BC22F-10
BC22F-25

No/No/Yes

Interface
Type

Yes/Yes/Yes

1 BT - British Telecommunications plc
2 Hull - Kingston Communications (Hull) plc
3 MCL - Mercury Communications Limited

The maximum approved cable length is 25 feet, comprising:
Cat 1

V.24

25 feet for extension

BC22F-25

C.2 Approvals for Digital Circuits
The PMBA-AA is approved for direct connection to a particular digital
circuit. This approval includes interconnecting cable with mating connectors
conforming to BS6623 part 1 and part 4.
If the product is connected to the service with anything other than its own
approved cables, those cables must benefit from the relevant general approval
and/or conform with any other applicable requirements.

C–2 Regulatory Information for the United Kingdom

C.2 Approvals for Digital Circuits

Caution
Ports J2, J3, J4, J5, J6, J7, J16, J17, J28, J33, J54, J55, J56, J57
(shown in Figure C–1) do not provide sufficient isolation to satisfy the
requirements of the relevant parts of standard BS6301. Any product
connected to these ports must meet one of the following conditions:
•

Be covered by OFTEL’s General Approval NS/G/1234/J/100003 (All
products supplied by Digital comply with this General Approval.)

•

Have been approved to the relevant parts of standard BS6301

•

Have previously been evaluated against the British Telecom (Post
Office) Technical Guide 2 or 26 and given permission to attach

Other usage will invalidate any approval given to this apparatus.

Regulatory Information for the United Kingdom C–3

C.2 Approvals for Digital Circuits

Figure C–1 System Module J-Connector Locations

J29

J31

J2
J55
J16
J33
J3

J4
J56
J5
J17

E22

J30

E35

J32

J54

E37

J28

J57
J52
J53

WSMXP004

Interconnection directly, or by way of other apparatus, of ports marked by the
safety warning label with other ports that are marked or not so marked, may
produce hazardous conditions on the network. Seek advice from a competent
engineer before making any such connection.

C–4 Regulatory Information for the United Kingdom

C.3 Host Independent Approvals

C.3 Host Independent Approvals
The PMBA-AA is approved only for installation in an approved host with
approved attachments. For approval, the host and host attachments must be
either:
•

Type-approved (meaning the equipment is built exactly like the models
that were originally approved)

•

Marked with or supplied with a statement that the host is supplied under
General Approval Number NS/G/1234/J/100003, if the equipment was
supplied after March 1, 1989.

Except at the edge connector which plugs into the host’s expansion slot,
clearance and creepage distances of Xmm and Ymm, as listed below must be
maintained between the PMBA-AA and other parts of the host, including any
other expansion cards fitted.
Table C–2 Clearance and Creepage Specs for PMBA-AA
Clearance
Xmm

Creepage
Ymm

Voltage1

2.0

2.4 (3.8)

up to 50

2.6

3.0 (4.8)

up to 125

4.0

5.0 (8.0)

up to 250

4.0

6.4 (10.0)

up to 300

1 Used or generated by other parts of the host or expansion card (Vrms or Vdc)

Clearance is the shortest distance in air between two points. Creepage is
the shortest distance along continuous solid parts between the same two
points. The creepage distances apply when installed in a normal office
environment. The creepage distance shown in parentheses apply where
the local environment within the Host Computer is subject to conductive
pollution or dry non-conductive pollution which could become conductive due
to condensation. These distances can be checked by measuring between the
adjacent parts.
If in doubt, advice should be obtained from a competent telecom safety
engineer. Failure to install the PMBA-AA in accordance with these instructions
will invalidate the approval.

Regulatory Information for the United Kingdom C–5

C.4 Host Power Rating

C.4 Host Power Rating
The user must ensure that the power drawn by the PMBA-AA, together with
the host and other auxiliary apparatus drawing power from the host, is within
the rating of the host power supply.
Digital has designed all permutations of the host configuration to operate
within the limits of the host power rating.
Table C–3 Module Power Rating for PMBA-AA
Supply (+/– 4%)
(Volts)

Maximum Current
(Amps)

Typical Current
(Amps)

+5.1

4.0

+12.1

3.0

0.4

C.5 Apparatus Between the Approved Apparatus and a
Digital Circuit (PTT)
If any apparatus, including cable or wiring, is to be connected between the
approved apparatus and the point of connection to any particular digital
circuit, all the other apparatus must conform as follows:
1. The overall transmission characteristics of all the other apparatus shall
be such as to introduce no material effect upon the electrical conditions
presented to one another by the apparatus and the particular digital
circuit.
2. All the other apparatus shall comprise only:
•

Apparatus approved (such apparatus may be subject to limitations on
its use) for the purpose of connection between the apparatus and a
particular digital circuit

•

Cable or wiring complying with a code of practice for the installation of
apparatus covered by this standard or such other requirements as may
be applicable

C–6 Regulatory Information for the United Kingdom

Index
A
Adapters
communications, 7–3, 7–7
ThinWire Ethernet, 6–12
Twisted-pair Ethernet, 6–16
Antistatic wrist strap, 8–8

B
BA42 expansion box, 5–2 to 5–15
Base system module, 8–3
boot (console command), 10–11 to 10–12
boot (environmental variable), 10–12, 10–20,
10–24
Booting the workstation
See Turning on the workstation
Button Box, 1–33

C
Cables
See also Adapters, Connectors, Part
numbers, Pin assignments
See under Ethernet, Monitors, Power,
SCSI
cat (console command), 10–12
Clearance/Creepage specs
for United Kingdom, C–5
cnfg (console command), 10–13 to 10–17
Communications devices
adapters for, 7–3, 7–7
baud rate, 7–2
connectors, 1–2, 7–2 to 7–7

Communications devices (cont’d)
installing, 7–1 to 7–9
troubleshooting, 11–14
Configuration display, 3–7
See also cnfg (console command)
Connector pin assignments, B–1 to B–7
Ethernet loopback connector, B–6
I/O cover SCSI cable, B–2
keyboard/mouse/tablet connector, B–3
modem loopback connector, B–6
printer/communications connector, B–4
printer/console loopback connector, B–5
summary of loopback connectors, B–6
ThickWire Ethernet connector, B–5
Connectors
See also Adapters, Connector pin
assignments, Terminators
communications, 1–2, 1–5, 7–2 to 7–7
Ethernet, 1–5, 6–2
Ethernet connector sliding lock, 6–3
Ethernet ThickWire loopback connector,
1–7, 6–2 to 6–3
keyboard-mouse, 1–5
monitor-to-system-unit power, 1–5
on system unit, 1–4
SCSI, 1–5, 5–2
system-unit power, 1–5
video, 1–9
Console
See System console
console (environment variable), 3–5
console (environmental variable), 10–6 to
10–7, 10–24
Console command conventions
rules for typing, 10–8

Index–1

Console command conventions (cont’d)
syntax conventions, 10–9
? (console command), 10–11
Console commands, 10–10 to 10–22
boot, 10–11 to 10–12
cat, 10–12
cnfg, 10–13 to 10–17
d or deposit, 10–17
e or examine, 10–18
erl, 10–18
go, 10–19
? (help), 10–11
init, 10–19
ls, 10–19
passwd, 10–19 to 10–20
printenv, 10–20
restart, 10–21
script, 10–21
setenv, 10–21
sh or shell, 10–21 to 10–22
t or test, 10–22
unsetenv, 10–22
Console mode, 10–2 to 10–3
Console password, 10–19 to 10–20
Console prompts, 3–4
Conventions
console command syntax, 10–9
used in the manual, xiv
Cover-release screw, 1–5
CPU module
description of, 8–4
installing, 9–19 to 9–23
removing, 9–13 to 9–18
testing, 9–23
troubleshooting, 11–17, 11–18, 11–19
Customer Support Center, 11–20

D
d or deposit (console command), 10–17
Device code, 5–19, 10–16
Device descriptor, 10–16
Diagnostic LED display
on system unit, 1–5
troubleshooting the workstation, 11–2

Index–2

Dial Box, 1–33
Diskette drives
See Drives, Equipment specifications,
External storage devices
Drives
See also Equipment specifications,
External storage devices
connecting to workstation, 5–1 to 5–15
installing in expansion boxes, 5–21
SCSI IDs for, 5–4, 5–5, 5–17 to 5–18
self-contained, 5–2

E
e or examine (console command), 10–18
Electrical
interference, 2–2
Electrical power
See Power cables and cords, Power
indicator light, Power requirements
for the workstation, Power switches
Environment variables
console, 3–5
haltaction, 3–8
testaction, 3–6
Environmental variables, 10–23 to 10–24
boot, 10–12, 10–20, 10–24
console, 10–6 to 10–7, 10–24
console commands used with, 10–23
deleting values of, 10–22
haltaction, 10–24
more, 10–24
setting values of, 10–21
showing values of, 10–20
testaction, 10–24
Equipment specifications
system unit, A–1 to A–2
erl (console command), 10–18
Ethernet
connecting to Ethernet networks, 6–1 to
6–18
connector on system unit, 1–5
installing, 6–8 to 6–18
ThickWire Ethernet cable, 6–9 to
6–11

Ethernet
installing (cont’d)
ThinWire Ethernet adapter, 6–12 to
6–15
twisted-pair Ethernet adapter, 6–16
to 6–18
sliding lock on connectors, 6–3
station addresses, 6–7
ThickWire loopback connector, 1–7, 6–2
to 6–3
troubleshooting, 11–10
TURBOchannel option module, 8–4
Expansion boxes
See BA42 expansion box, External storage
devices, TURBOchannel extender
(TCE) unit
External communications
See Communications devices
External storage devices, 5–1 to 5–21
See also Drives, Equipment specifications
in expansion boxes, 5–2, 5–21
installing, 5–1 to 5–15
removing, 5–21
rules for connecting, 5–4
testing, 5–19 to 5–20
troubleshooting, 11–7

Host power rating, C–6

I
Icons, 1–6
init (console command), 10–19
Input devices, 1–23 to 1–34
Interference
electrical, 2–2

K
Keyboard
adjusting feet on, 1–29
cable assembly, 1–25
installing, 1–25 to 1–29
language selection for, 3–5
models available, 1–23 to 1–24
troubleshooting, 11–10

German Equipment Safety Law, A–2
go (console command), 10–19
Graphics option module, 1–2, 3–3, 8–4

Language menu, 3–5
LED display
See Diagnostic LED display
Lights
LED display on system unit, 1–5
power indicator on system unit, 1–3, 1–5
Loopback connectors
summary of, B–6
ThickWire Ethernet, 1–7, 6–2 to 6–3
ls (console command), 10–19

Halt button, 1–5, 3–8
haltaction (environment variable), 3–8
haltaction (environmental variable), 10–24
Hard disk drives
See Drives, Equipment specifications,
External storage devices
Help (?) console command, 10–11
Host approvals
for United Kingdom, C–5

Memory modules
description of, 8–3
information in cnfg displays, 10–13,
10–16
installing, 9–2 to 9–6
removing, 9–8 to 9–10
testing, 9–7 to 9–8
troubleshooting, 11–6
Model codes, 10–13

Index–3

Modes
console, 10–2 to 10–3
operating, 10–2
privileged, 10–3
restricted, 10–3
Module codes, 10–13 to 10–15
Monitors
color, 1–12 to 1–13
gray-scale, 1–14 to 1–15
installing, 1–9 to 1–22
monochrome, 1–16 to 1–17
multiple, 1–17, 3–3
on/off switches, 1–9, 1–10
positioning, 1–10
supplying power to, 1–18 to 1–22
troubleshooting, 11–8 to 11–10
video cables for, 1–11 to 1–17
more (environmental variable), 10–24
Mouse, 1–30 to 1–32

N
Nameplate
replacing, 9–23
Networks
See Ethernet
Nonvolatile random-access memory
(NVRAM) module
description of, 8–4
installing and removing, 9–11
testing, 9–11 to 9–13
troubleshooting, 11–6, 11–18

O
Optical compact disc drives
See Drives, Equipment specifications,
External storage devices
Option slots
See under Slot numbers, TURBOchannel

Index–4

P
Passwd (console command), 3–4
Password
See Console password
Pin assignments
See Connector pin assignments
Pointing devices, 1–30 to 1–34
troubleshooting, 11–11
Power cables and cords
monitor, 1–18 to 1–22
system unit, 1–8
Power indicator light, 1–3, 1–5
Power supply, 8–5
Power switch
monitor, 1–9
system unit, 1–5
Powering down
See Turning off the workstation
Powering up
See Turning on the workstation
printenv (console command), 10–20
Printers
installing, 7–2
troubleshooting, 11–14
Problems
See Troubleshooting
Product ID, 10–16
Prompts
console >>, 3–4, 10–3
restricted R>, 3–4, 10–3

R
restart (console command), 10–21

S
script (console command), 10–21
Scripts
displaying contents of, 10–12
running scripts with the sh command,
10–21 to 10–22

Scripts (cont’d)
writing, 10–21
SCSI
cables, 5–4, 5–16
connector on system unit, 1–2, 1–5
connectors in TURBOchannel slots, 5–2
device code, 10–16
drive terminator, 5–4, 5–13
drives, 5–2, 5–4
ID numbers
checking, 5–17
setting, 5–17 to 5–18
within a chain of devices, 5–4, 5–5,
5–17
information in cnfg displays, 10–16
TURBOchannel option module, 8–4
Self-tests
interpreting error messages, 11–16 to
11–19
power-up self-test, 3–6 to 3–7
system self-test, 3–7
Serial communications
See Communications
Service requirements
for United Kingdom, C–2
setenv (console command), 10–21
sh or shell (console command), 10–21 to
10–22
Site requirements, 2–1
Sliding lock
on Ethernet connectors, 6–3
Slot numbers
base system slot, 10–13
configuration tests and, 3–7, 10–13
TURBOchannel, 1–5
Software
booting factory-installed, 3–10
Static electricity, 8–8
See also Antistatic wrist strap
Stopping the workstation, 3–8
See also Turning off the workstation
Storage expansion boxes
See External storage devices, BA42
expansion box, TURBOchannel
extender (TCE) unit

System console, 10–2
See also Console mode
monitor as system console, 10–7
terminal as system console, 10–4 to 10–6
System module J-connectors
location of (fig.), C–4
System unit
antistatic precautions for working inside
of, 8–8
connectors, 1–4
cooling vents, 1–6
cover, 8–6 to 8–7
description of, 1–2 to 1–6
general view of inside, 9–4
installing, 1–6 to 1–8
main parts of, 8–2 to 8–5
power cord, 1–8

T
t or test (console command), 10–22
T-connector, 6–14
Tablet, 1–30 to 1–32
Tape drives
See Drives, Equipment specifications,
External storage devices
Terminals, 10–4 to 10–6
Terminators
Ethernet loopback connector, 6–2 to 6–3
SCSI drive, 5–4, 5–13
ThinWire Ethernet, 6–15
testaction (environment variable), 3–6
testaction (environmental variable), 10–24
Testing
See also Self-tests, Troubleshooting
CPU module, 9–23
external storage devices, 5–19 to 5–20
memory modules, 9–7 to 9–8, 10–13
NVRAM module, 9–11 to 9–13
the workstation, 3–6 to 3–7
the workstation configuration, 3–7
ThickWire Ethernet
See Ethernet
ThinWire Ethernet

Index–5

ThinWire Ethernet (cont’d)
See Ethernet, installing ThinWire
Ethernet adapter
Troubleshooting, 11–1 to 11–19
See also Testing
colors are inappropriate, 11–9
common problems, 11–6 to 11–14
communications devices, 11–14
component connections, 11–6 to 11–14
components functioning, 11–15 to 11–19
contacting your Customer Support Center,
11–20
cursor does not move properly, 11–11
diagnostic LED display, 11–2
error message log, 10–18
external drives, 11–7
initializing the workstation, 11–2
interpreting self-test messages, 11–16 to
11–19
keyboard does not seem to work, 11–10
memory size incorrect, 11–6
networks, 11–10
NVRAM module, 11–6, 11–18
pointing devices, 11–11
printers, 11–14
screen is blank or distorted, 11–8, 11–10
self-test error messages for base system
slot, 11–16 to 11–19
system unit, 3–4
TK50Z tape drive, 11–13
worksystem software, 11–12 to 11–13
TURBOchannel
option modules, 1–2, 8–4 to 8–5, 9–24
option slots, 1–2, 1–5
wide option modules, 8–5
TURBOchannel extender (TCE) unit, 5–2 to
5–15, 8–5
Turning off the workstation, 3–9
Turning on the workstation, 3–2 to 3–4
Twisted-pair Ethernet

Index–6

See Ethernet, installing twisted-pair
Ethernet adapter

U
ULTRIX worksystem software
console command arguments and, 10–9
entering console mode from, 10–3, 10–24
error messages from, 10–4
restarting, 10–10, 10–21, 10–24
starting (booting), 10–20, 10–24
troubleshooting, 11–12 to 11–13
United Kingdom
information required for, C–2
unsetenv (console command), 10–22

V
Video cables
color, 1–11, 1–12
gray-scale, 1–11, 1–14
monochrome, 1–11, 1–16
Video connector, 1–9
Voltage, 2–3
Voltage requirements
See Power requirements for the
workstation

W
Workstation
See also System unit
adjusting for comfort, 1–34
configuration display, 3–7, 10–13 to
10–17
dismantling, 4–1
main components of, 1–1 to 1–34
stopping, 3–8
testing, 3–6 to 3–7
total installed memory, 10–13
turning off, 3–9
turning on, 3–2 to 3–4
Worksystem software
See ULTRIX worksystem software

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DECstation 5000 Model 260
EK–4MMAX–OP. A01

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