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Document:	AlphaStation 500 Series User Information
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AlphaStation 500 Series
User Information
Part Number: EK-ALPH5-UI. B01

January 1997
This book introduces the AlphaStation 500 Series system. Use the information in this
book to configure, start, use, update, and troubleshoot your system. You will also find
general system information, such as console commands and system care, in this book.

Revision/Update Information:

Digital Equipment Corporation
Maynard, Massachusetts

This is revision.

First Printing, December 1995
Revised, January 1997
Digital Equipment Corporation makes no representations that the use of its products in the manner described in this
publication will not infringe on existing or future patent rights, nor do the descriptions contained in this publication
imply the granting of licenses to make, use, or sell equipment or software in accordance with the description.
Possession, use, or copying of the software described in this publication is authorized only pursuant to a valid
written license from Digital or an authorized sublicensor.
© Digital Equipment Corporation 1995, 1997. All rights reserved.
The following are trademarks of Digital Equipment Corporation: AlphaStation, Digital UNIX, OpenVMS,
ThinWire, and the DIGITAL logo.
The following are third-party trademarks:
Microsoft and Windows NT are registered trademarks of Microsoft Corporation.
SIMM is a trademark of Molex Corporation.
UNIX is a registered trademark in the United States and other countries, licensed exclusively through X/Open
Company Ltd.
All other trademarks and registered trademarks are the property of their respective holders.

[S3420]

FCC CLASSIFICATION
There are many variants of AlphaStation 500 Series systems. Your AlphaStation 500
Series system may be classified as either a Class A or a Class B FCC/EMC device,
depending upon its options and configuration.. To determine your system’s classification,
look at the FCC Classification Label on the bottom of the system.

FCC NOTICE -- CLASS A DEVICE
The equipment described in this manual generates, uses, and may emit radio frequency
energy. The equipment has been type tested and found to comply with the limits for a
Class A digital device pursuant to 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 their own expense will be required to take whatever measures are required to
correct the interference. If shielded cables have been supplied or specified, they must be
used on the system in order to maintain international regulatory compliance.

FCC NOTICE -- CLASS B DEVICE
This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC rules. Operation is subject to the following
conditions:
(1) this device may not cause harmful interference, and
(2) this device must accept any interference received, including interference that may
cause undesired operation.
This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class B digital
device, pursuant to Part 15 of the FCC rules. These limits are designed to provide
reasonable protection against harmful interference in a residential installation. Any
changes or modifications to this equipment may void the user's authority to operate this
equipment.

FCC NOTICE -- CLASS B DEVICE (continued)
This equipment generates, uses, and can radiate radio frequency energy and, if not
installed and used in accordance with the instructions, may cause harmful interference to
radio communications. However, there is no guarantee that interference will not occur in a
particular installation. If this equipment does cause harmful interference to radio or
television reception, which can be determined by turning the equipment off and on, the
user is encouraged to try to correct the interference by one or more of the following
measures:
•

Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna.

•

Increase the separation between the equipment and the receiver is connected.

•

Connect the equipment into an outlet on a circuit different from that to which the
receiver is connected.

Consult the dealer or an experienced radio/TV technician for help.
The keyboard and video ports should be connected only with shielded data cables with an
external ferrite bead over the cable. When either of these ports is connected with cables
without such a ferrite bead, the additional ferrite beads shall be clamped over these cables
next to the cable connector.

Table of Contents
1 System Overview
Introduction...........................................................................................................................1-1
System Unit...........................................................................................................................1-2
Enclosure Front Panel............................................................................................................1-3
Enclosure Rear Panel.............................................................................................................1-4
The Keyboard........................................................................................................................1-6

2 Getting Started
Introduction...........................................................................................................................2-1
Before Starting Your System .................................................................................................2-2
Identifying the Correct AC Power Cord ..........................................................................2-3
Installing Your System ..........................................................................................................2-4
Connecting System Components.....................................................................................2-5
Network Connection .......................................................................................................2-7
Starting Your System.............................................................................................................2-7
Preloaded Operating System Software ............................................................................2-8
Digital UNIX ...........................................................................................................2-8
OpenVMS................................................................................................................2-8
Switching Console Firmware ..........................................................................................2-9
If No Operating System Is Installed ................................................................................2-9
Turning Off Your System ......................................................................................................2-9
Computer Security...............................................................................................................2-10
Security Lock ............................................................................................................... 2-10
Passwords .....................................................................................................................2-10
Posture and Work Habits .............................................................................................. 2-10

AlphaStation 500 Series User Information v

Table of Contents

3 Installing System Options
Introduction........................................................................................................................... 3-1
Top Cover/Left Side Panel .................................................................................................... 3-2
Removing the Top Cover and Left Side Panel ................................................................ 3-2
System Unit Components ...................................................................................................... 3-4
System Board ........................................................................................................................ 3-6
System Memory .................................................................................................................... 3-8
Cache Memory ............................................................................................................... 3-8
Memory Configuration Rules ......................................................................................... 3-8
Adding or Removing Memory Modules (DIMMs) .......................................................... 3-9
Storage Devices................................................................................................................... 3-11
General Information on Installing Drives............................................................................. 3-11
SCSI Addresses (SCSI ID’s)......................................................................................... 3-11
SCSI Termination......................................................................................................... 3-12
External SCSI Connector Termination.......................................................................... 3-12
Internal SCSI Termination............................................................................................ 3-12
SCSI Bus Length .......................................................................................................... 3-12
Installing Optional Internal Storage Devices........................................................................ 3-13
Installing Hard Disk Drives in the Lower Right Side Inner Bay .................................... 3-13
Removing the CD-ROM ........................................................................................ 3-14
Removing the Drive Tray from the Lower Right Side Inner Bay .................................. 3-15
Installing Drives In the Right Side Bracket................................................................... 3-16
Installing a Hard Disk Drive in the Left Side Storage Bay ............................................ 3-24
Removing the Floppy Drive Tray Assembly ................................................................. 3-24
Removing the Floppy Drive from the Original Drive Tray..................................... 3-26
Removing the Floppy Drive from the Drive Tray (Re-Designed) ........................... 3-27
Installing an Optional Hard Drive in the Original Left-side Drive Tray.................. 3-28
Installing an Optional Hard Drive in the Re-designed Left-side Drive Tray ........... 3-29
Installing an Optional Tape Drive in the Redesigned Left-Side Drive Tray............ 3-30
Replacing the Drive Tray Assembly in the System ....................................................... 3-30
PCI Expansion Options........................................................................................................ 3-31
PCI Bus ........................................................................................................................ 3-31
Installing Expansion Modules....................................................................................... 3-32
Replacing the Left Side Panel and Top Cover ..................................................................... 3-34
Connecting External Options............................................................................................... 3-36
Connecting a Printer or Other Parallel Device .............................................................. 3-36
Connecting an External SCSI Option............................................................................ 3-36

vi AlphaStation 500 Series User Information

Table of Contents

4 Troubleshooting
Introduction...........................................................................................................................4-1
Initial Troubleshooting ..........................................................................................................4-1
General Troubleshooting .......................................................................................................4-2
SROM Status and Error Codes...............................................................................................4-8
Equipment Log.................................................................................................................... 4-10

Appendix
A Console Commands
Introduction.......................................................................................................................... A-1
ARC Console........................................................................................................................ A-1
Commands You Need to Know...................................................................................... A-2
Display Hardware Configuration............................................................................. A-2
Set Default Environment Variables ......................................................................... A-2
Set Default Configuration ....................................................................................... A-3
Setting the Date and Time....................................................................................... A-4
Selecting a Default Language ................................................................................. A-4
Manage Boot Selection Menu ................................................................................. A-5
Machine Specific Setup .......................................................................................... A-6
Setting PCI Parity ................................................................................................... A-7
Boot (Boot Selection Identifier) .............................................................................. A-7
Boot an Alternate Operating System ....................................................................... A-7
Other Commands of Interest .......................................................................................... A-7
Setup Autoboot ....................................................................................................... A-7
Install New Firmware.............................................................................................. A-8
Install Windows NT from CD-ROM ....................................................................... A-8
Switch to OpenVMS or Digital UNIX Console ....................................................... A-8
SRM Console ....................................................................................................................... A-8
SRM Console Conventions ............................................................................................ A-9
SRM Console Shortcut Keys........................................................................................ A-10
Boot Command............................................................................................................ A-11
Boot Command Examples..................................................................................... A-12
Set Command .............................................................................................................. A-13
Set Command Examples ....................................................................................... A-14
Show Command .......................................................................................................... A-14

AlphaStation 500 Series User Information vii

Table of Contents
Show Command Examples ................................................................................... A-15
Environment Variables ................................................................................................ A-16
Examine Command ..................................................................................................... A-17
Examine Command Examples .............................................................................. A-18
Deposit Command ....................................................................................................... A-19
Deposit Command Examples ................................................................................ A-20

B System Care
Introduction.......................................................................................................................... B-1
Cleaning Your System Unit.................................................................................................. B-1
Cleaning Your Monitor ........................................................................................................ B-1
Cleaning Your Mouse........................................................................................................... B-2
Cleaning Your Keyboard...................................................................................................... B-3
Moving Your System............................................................................................................ B-3
Packing Your System .................................................................................................... B-3
Installing Your System at a New Location..................................................................... B-3

C Technical Specifications
Introduction.......................................................................................................................... C-1
System Specifications........................................................................................................... C-1
External System Connectors................................................................................................. C-3
Parallel Port Connector.................................................................................................. C-4
Serial Port Connectors ................................................................................................... C-5
Keyboard and Mouse Connectors .................................................................................. C-5
SCSI Connectors ........................................................................................................... C-6
Expansion Slots ............................................................................................................. C-8
Power Supply and Input Power Requirements ...................................................................... C-9
System Board Jumper Locations......................................................................................... C-10
SROM Selection Jumpers ............................................................................................ C-12
Ethernet Interface ........................................................................................................ C-13
Software Switches ................................................................................................ C-13
Selecting the ThickWire/ThinWire or Twisted Pair Ports...................................... C-13

D Device Mapping
Introduction.......................................................................................................................... D-1
I/O Address Map .................................................................................................................. D-1
Interrupt Map ....................................................................................................................... D-2

viii AlphaStation 500 Series User Information

Table of Contents

E Updating System Firmware
Introduction.......................................................................................................................... E-1
System Firmware.................................................................................................................. E-1
Update Utility....................................................................................................................... E-1
Flash Enable Jumper...................................................................................................... E-1
Using the Flash Update Utility....................................................................................... E-1

F Starting an Operating System Installation
Introduction...........................................................................................................................F-1
Starting a Windows NT Workstation Installation...................................................................F-2
Starting a Digital UNIX Installation ......................................................................................F-5
Starting an OpenVMS Installation .........................................................................................F-6

G Sound Card Overview
Introduction.......................................................................................................................... G-1
Module Layout ..................................................................................................................... G-1
Module Connectors........................................................................................................ G-2
Module Jumpers ............................................................................................................ G-3
External Connection Jacks ............................................................................................. G-4
Software ........................................................................................................................ G-4
Microsoft Windows NT Workstation Operating System................................................. G-4
Digital UNIX Operating System .................................................................................... G-4
OpenVMS Operating System ......................................................................................... G-5

H Equipment Log
Introduction......................................................................................................................... H–1
Equipment Log.................................................................................................................... H–1

AlphaStation 500 Series User Information ix

Table of Contents

List of Figures
Figure 1-1 Front Controls, Indicators, and Drive Bay Locations ........................... 1-3
Figure 1-2 Rear Connectors (Rear View)............................................................. 1-4
Figure 1-3 Typical Keyboard Layout.................................................................... 1-6
Figure 2-1 AlphaStation 500 Series System .......................................................... 2-2
Figure 2-2 System Enclosure Airflow................................................................... 2-4
Figure 2-3 Voltage Select Switch ......................................................................... 2-5
Figure 2-4 Connecting Cables and the Power Cord............................................... 2-6
Figure 2-5 Starting Your System .......................................................................... 2-7
Figure 2-6 Recommendations and Posture and Work Habits................................ 2-11
Figure 3-1 Unlocking the Top Cover .................................................................... 3-2
Figure 3-2 Removing the Top Cover and Left Side Panel ..................................... 3-3
Figure 3-3 System Unit Components .................................................................... 3-4
Figure 3-4 System Board Components.................................................................. 3-6
Figure 3-5 DIMM Bank Configuration ................................................................. 3-9
Figure 3-6 Installing a DIMM............................................................................. 3-10
Figure 3-7 Removing the CD-ROM Bracket....................................................... 3-14
Figure 3-8 Removing the Hard Drive Tray Bracket ............................................ 3-15
Figure 3-9 Installing Drives in the Right Side Bracket........................................ 3-16
Figure 3-10 Cabling the Optional Hard Drives.................................................... 3-17
Figure 3-11 FDI/SCSI Cable Routing ................................................................. 3-18
Figure 3-12 Audio Cable Routing....................................................................... 3-20
Figure 3-13 Power Cable Configuration ............................................................. 3-21
Figure 3-14 MAU Cable Configurations............................................................. 3-22
Figure 3-15 Fan and LED Cable Connections..................................................... 3-23
Figure 3-16 Removing the Floppy Drive Tray Assembly.................................... 3-25
Figure 3-17 Removing the Floppy Drive (Original Tray).................................... 3-26
Figure 3-18 Removing the Floppy Drive (Re-designed Tray) ............................. 3-27
Figure 3-19 Installing the Hard Drive in the Original Left-side Drive Tray......... 3-28
Figure 3-20 Installing Optional Hard Drive (Re-designed Tray) ......................... 3-29
Figure 3-21 Installing a Tape Drive in the Redesigned Left-side Drive Tray ...... 3-30
Figure 3-22 PCI Option Slots.............................................................................. 3-31
Figure 3-23 Installing an Expansion Module ...................................................... 3-33
Figure 3-24 Replacing the Top Cover................................................................. 3-35
Figure B-1 Cleaning the Mouse ............................................................................ B-2
Figure C-1 System Board Jumper Locations........................................................C-11
Figure G-1 Card Connectors and Jumpers............................................................. G-1

x AlphaStation 500 Series User Information

Table of Contents

List of Tables
Table 1-1 Front Control, Indicators, and Drive Bay Locations .............................. 1-3
Table 1-2 Rear Connectors ................................................................................... 1-5
Table 1-3 Key Groups and Functions.................................................................... 1-7
Table 2-1 System Shutdown Commands............................................................. 2-10
Table 2-2 Recommendations for Posture and Work Habits ................................. 2-11
Table 3-1 System Unit Components...................................................................... 3-5
Table 3-2 System Board Components ................................................................... 3-7
Table 3-3 SCSI Address Recommendations........................................................ 3-11
Table 3-4 PCI Option Slot Locations .................................................................. 3-31
Table 4-1 System Troubleshooting (continued)...................................................... 4-3
Table 4-1 System Troubleshooting (continued)...................................................... 4-4
Table 4-1 System Troubleshooting (continued)...................................................... 4-5
Table 4-3 Monitor Troubleshooting ...................................................................... 4-7
Table 4-4 Status and Error Codes ......................................................................... 4-8
Table 4-4 Status and Error Codes (continued)........................................................ 4-9
Table A-1 SRM Console Convention................................................................... A-9
Table A-2 SRM Console Shortcut Keys.............................................................. A-10
Table A-3 Boot Command Examples................................................................. A-12
Table A-4 Set Command Examples ................................................................... A-14
Table A-5 Show Command Examples ............................................................... A-15
Table A-6 Environmental Variables................................................................... A-16
Table A-7 Examine Command Examples .......................................................... A-18
Table A-8 Deposit Command Examples ............................................................ A-20
Table C-1 System Specifications ......................................................................... C-1
Table C-2 System Dimensions............................................................................. C-2
Table C-3 System Environmental Specifications ................................................. C-2
Table C-4 Acoustics - Declared Values According to ISO 9296 and ISO 7779 .... C-3
Table C-5 Parallel Port Pinouts............................................................................ C-4
Table C-6 9-Pin Port Pinouts ............................................................................... C-5
Table C-7 Keyboard and Mouse Connector Pinouts............................................. C-5
Table C-8 Wide SCSI Pinouts.............................................................................. C-6
Table C-8 Wide SCSI Pinouts (Continued) .......................................................... C-7
Table C-9 Narrow SCSI Pinouts (Continued)....................................................... C-8
Table C-10 Output Power Requirements.............................................................. C-9
Table C-11 Input Power Requirements ................................................................ C-9
Table C-12 System Board Jumpers .................................................................... C-12
Table C-13 SROM Selection Jumpers................................................................ C-12
Table D-1 I/O Address Map................................................................................. D-1
Table D-2 Main Interrupt Logic IRQ Pin Assignments ........................................ D-3

AlphaStation 500 Series User Information xi

Table of Contents
Table D-3 EISA Interrupt Assignments ............................................................... D-4
Table D-4 Interrupt Jumpers................................................................................ D-4
Table F-1 Starting a Windows NT Workstation Installation.................................. F-3
Table F-2 Setting Up Partitions for a Windows NT Workstation Installation ........ F-4
Table F-3 Starting a Digital UNIX Installation ..................................................... F-5
Table F-4 Starting an Open VMS Installation ....................................................... F-6
Table G-1 Card Connector and Jumpers .............................................................. G-2
Table G-2 Speaker Connector Pinouts ................................................................. G-2
Table G-3 CD Connector Pinouts ........................................................................ G-3
Table G-4 TCE Jumper ........................................................................................ G-3
Table G-5 SW1 and SW2 Jumpers Audio Module Base Address ......................... G-3
Table H-1 Hardware Components........................................................................H–2
Table H-2 SCSI Addresses ..................................................................................H–2
Table H-3 Hardware Configuration .....................................................................H–3
Table H-4 Installed Software...............................................................................H–3
Table H-5 Additional Component Information ....................................................H–3

xii AlphaStation 500 Series User Information

Preface
Welcome to the Digital AlphaStation 500 Series System
This book introduces the Digital AlphaStation 500 Series system.
Use the information in this book to configure, start, use, update, and troubleshoot your
Digital AlphaStation 500 Series system. You can also find general system information
such as console commands and system care in this book.

Audience
If you will be operating, configuring, or adding options to the Digital AlphaStation 500
Series system, the information included in this book will be helpful to you.

Organization of the Information
This information for users covers the following topics:
•

Chapter 1, System Overview, describes the hardware components, including the
peripheral component interconnect (PCI) architecture, the controller, the keyboard, the
system unit front panel, and the system unit rear panel.

•

Chapter 2, Getting Started, describes installing, starting, restarting, and turning off the
system.

•

Chapter 3, Installing System Options, describes the system unit components and gives
instructions and illustrations to help you remove and replace them.

•

Chapter 4, Troubleshooting, describes system troubleshooting as well as the error beep
codes.

•

Appendix A, Console Commands, contains a basic description of the advanced RISC
computing (ARC) console commands and the system reference manual (SRM) console
commands.

AlphaStation 500 Series User Information xiii

Preface
•

Appendix B, System Care, describes how to clean your system, monitor, mouse, and
keyboard. It also contains instructions for moving and reinstalling your system.

•

Appendix C, Technical Specifications, describes the technical characteristics of the
system.

•

Appendix D, Device Mapping, lists system device address mapping information,
including I/O addresses and interrupts.

•

Appendix E, Updating System Firmware, explains how to use the firmware update
utility.

•

Appendix F, Starting an Operating System Installation, provides the information you
need to begin an operating system installation.

•

Appendix G, Sound Card Overview, describes the Digital AlphaStation 500 Series
system sound card.

•

Appendix H, Equipment Log, contains tables that you can use to record information
about your system hardware and software components.

Refer to the Table of Contents for a detailed listing of topics.

Conventions
This guide uses the following conventions:
Convention Example
c:\windowsc:\windows>

Description
Monospaced, bold text indicates file names, path
names, directories, or screen text.

[Enter]

Square brackets surrounding text represent a key on
the keyboard.

[Ctrl]+[R]

A plus sign between keyboard keys indicates that
the keys shown should be pressed at the same time.

auto_action

Italic text indicates environment variables. Titles of
information sources are in italic, and occasionally
italic is used for emphasis in the text.

)

A pointing hand indicates a reference to additional
information.

xiv AlphaStation 500 Series User Information

Preface

Abbreviations
This guide uses the following abbreviations:
Abbreviation

Meaning

alternating current

amp

ampere

ARC

advanced RISC computing (Windows NT console)

ARCINST

ARC installation program

Celsius

compact disc

CD-ROM

compact disc read-only memory

CEE

International Commission for Conformity Certification of
Electrical Equipment

CFG

configuration file

centimeters

CPU

central processing unit

CSA

Canadian Standards Association

direct current

DIMMs

dual in-line memory modules

DMA

direct memory access

DRAM

dynamic random-access memory

ECU

EISA configuration utility

EISA

extended industry-standard architecture

FDI

Floppy Drive Interconnect

flashROM

electrically erasable, rewriteable, nonvolatile memory

feet

gigabyte

hertz

IEC

International Electrotechnical Commission

I/O

input/output

IRQ

interrupt request

ISA

industry-standard architecture

ISACFG

ISA configuration file

ISO

International Organization for Standardization

AlphaStation 500 Series User Information xv

Preface
Abbreviation

Meaning

kilobit

kilobyte

kilogram

pound

LED

light-emitting diode

meter

MAU

media adapter unit

megabit

megabyte

MHz

megahertz.

millimeter

nanoseconds

NVRAM

nonvolatile random-access memory

OSF

DEC Open Software Foundation/1 UNIX operating system

PCI

peripheral component interconnect

RISC

reduced instruction set computing

ROM

read-only memory

SCSI

small computer system interface

SIMMs

single in-line memory modules

SRM

system reference manual (the Digital UNIX and OpenVMS
consoles)

SROM

serial read-only memory

Underwriters Laboratories

VAR

value-added reseller

V AC

volts alternating current

VMS

Open VMS Operating System

watt

xvi AlphaStation 500 Series User Information

Preface

Special Notices
This guide uses three kinds of notices to emphasize specific information.
________________________WARNING __________________________
A WARNING indicates the presence of a hazard that can cause personal
injury.
____________________________________________________________
________________________ CAUTION ___________________________
A CAUTION indicates the presence of a hazard that can cause damage to
hardware or that might corrupt software.
____________________________________________________________
__________________________NOTE ____________________________
A NOTE gives general information, such as compatibility with other products or
pointers to other information.
____________________________________________________________

Additional Information Resources
You may wish to consult the following information resource for additional information
about your AlphaStation 500 Series system.
•

AlphaStation 500 Series Installation Information (order number EK-ALPH5-IN),
which presents a graphical overview of the AlphaStation 500 Series system
installation.

Contact your distributor or Digital representative for other available product-related
information or visit the Digital WorkStation web site.
•

Digital WorkStation Web Page - http://www.workstation.com/text.html

AlphaStation 500 Series User Information xvii

Preface

Reader’s Comments
Digital welcomes your comments on this or any other manual. You can send your
comments to Digital in the following ways:
•

Internet electronic mail to: readers_comments@zk3.dec.com

•

Mail:
Digital Equipment Corporation
Shared Engineering Services
129 Parker Street - PKO3-2/21J
Maynard, MA 01754-2199

Please reference order number EK-ALPH5-UI. B01 in your correspondence.

xviii AlphaStation 500 Series User Information

1
System Overview
Introduction
Congratulations on your purchase of the AlphaStation 500 Series System. The
AlphaStation 500 Engineering team is very proud of this product and you can be assured
that this machine has been designed and tested with the utmost attention to performance
and reliability. It can run OpenVMS, Digital UNIX, or Windows NT. Your machine’s
performance range can be extended by the addition of memory, PCI cards, video upgrades,
and hard disk drives.
The AlphaStation 500 Series is a high-performance system that uses the latest
microprocessor technology. The system can stand alone or function as a client in an office
network environment. This chapter describes the AlphaStation 500 Series system hardware
components, including the peripheral component interconnect (PCI) architecture, the
keyboard, the system unit front panel, and the system unit rear panel.
Following the information provided here will assure safe and proper operation of your
AlphaStation 500 Series System.

AlphaStation 500 Series User Information 1-1

System Overview

System Unit
Your AlphaStation 500 Series system uses a high-performance Alpha architecture CPU.
The system unit includes:
•

Two accessible I/O bays: one for 3.5 inch x 1 inch floppy disk or 3.5 inch tape devices
and one for 5.25 inch x 1.6 inch CD-ROM

•

Two non-accessible I/O bays: one that can accommodate a single 3.5 inch x 1.6 inch
device or two 3.5 x 1 inch devices. The bay below the floppy drive will accommodate
a single 3.5 inch x 1.6 inch hard drive (not available with tape option).

•

Diskette controller that supports one diskette drive

•

Integrated PCI-based SCSI-2 controller with Direct Memory Access and external
SCSI-2 connector that supports up to five SCSI devices. Initial offerings of the
AlphaStation 500 support Fast/Wide 10Mb/sec SCSI which will be phased into
Fast/Wide 20 Mb/sec SCSI.

•

ThinWire or twisted-pair Ethernet ports.

•

Four expansion slots - one for 64-bit PCI options; three slots for 32-bit PCI options.

•

Eight industry standard DIMM connectors for a maximum of 1 GB.

•

Keyboard and mouse

•

Two serial ports and one bi-directional parallel port

•

Built-in 16-bit audio card

)
)

Refer to Appendix C, Technical Specifications, for additional information.
See the Digital WorkStation Web Page for the latest details.
(http://www.workstation.com/text.html)

1-2 AlphaStation 500 Series User Information

System Overview

Enclosure Front Panel
Figure 1-1 shows a front view of the system enclosure with pointers to the controls and
indicators (storage bay door removed for clarity). Table 1-1 describes these items.
1

5
MA00999

Figure 1-1 Front Controls, Indicators, and Drive Bay Locations
Table 1-1 Front Control, Indicators, and Drive Bay Locations
Figure
Legend

Control or Indicator

Function

Floppy or tape drive bay

Location of external bay for 3.5-inch floppy
diskette or optional tape device.

Diskette eject button

Releases a 3.5-inch diskette from the diskette
drive.

CD drive bay

Location of 5.25-inch CD-ROM device.

CD-ROM eject button

Opens the CD loading drawer

Halt/Reset button

Jumper Selectable. When halt is pressed, the
system halts immediately (the halt button is a
momentary contact switch). When reset is
pressed, resets the system and causes the selftest to run.

LED Indicator

DC On, lights when the system is on.

LED Indicator

Lights to indicate SCSI activity.

Louvered air intake

Passageway for cooling air to enter the
system. (Do not block the air intake.)

AlphaStation 500 Series User Information 1-3

System Overview

Enclosure Rear Panel
Figure 1-2 shows the rear controls and connectors. Table 1-2 lists the rear controls and
connectors and describes their functions.
6
1

16
MA00995

Figure 1-2 Rear Connectors (Rear View)

1-4 AlphaStation 500 Series User Information

System Overview
Table 1-2 Rear Connectors
Figure
Legend

Item

Function

On/Off Switch

Power

Voltage selection
switch

Allows user to set voltage from factory set 230V
to 115 VAC power

Lock Slot

Use with optional Kensington type security lock

System (chassis)
lock

Provides security for internal components.

Sound card stereo
LINE OUT
connector

Routes audio signals to an external amplifier

Sound card stereo
headphone jack

Connects headphones, or amplified speakers

Top Cover Screw

Secures top cover

Sound card
microphone jack

Connects microphone (2.2Ohm to 2.5V)

Sound card stereo
LINE IN connector

Brings audio signals into the card (for example,
from a stereo amplifier)

Twisted Pair
connector

Connection to the embedded Ethernet controller

ThinWire connector

Connection to the embedded Ethernet controller

64-bit PCI
expansion slot

Used for PCI expansion options

13, 14, 15

32-bit PCI
expansion slots

In this example, a PCI graphics adapter is shown
in the bottom slot. It provides the interface
between the video/graphics expansion module
(option) and the supported monitor.

Enhanced bidirectional parallel
port

Connects an industry-standard parallel printer or
other parallel device

Wide SCSI
connector - 68-pin

Provides the interface between the system unit
and external SCSI devices

Keyboard connector

Connects a VMS or PS/2 style keyboard

Mouse connector

Connects a PS/2-compatible mouse

COM1 - Serial port
connector

Connects serial devices

COM2 - Serial port
connector

Connects serial devices

AC power connector

Connects the system to AC power

AlphaStation 500 Series User Information 1-5

System Overview

The Keyboard
Your system comes equipped with a 101-key enhanced keyboard (shown in) that allows
you to communicate with your system by entering data or commands. Note that some
European keyboards have 108 keys. Refer to Figure 1-3 and Table 1-3 for information on
keyboard key groups and functions.

)

Refer to your operating system or application software documentation for softwarespecific key functions.
_________________________ NOTE____________________________
You can adjust the angle of the keyboard for your comfort. The underside of the
keyboard has feet that swing down and lock into place.
___________________________________________________________

Figure 1-3 Typical Keyboard Layout

1-6 AlphaStation 500 Series User Information

System Overview

Table 1-3 Key Groups and Functions
Figure
Legend

Key, Key Group

Function

[Escape] key

This key is program-specific. Its function is
determined by the installed application
software.

Function key group

These keys are program-specific. Their
functions are determined by the installed
application software.

Edit key group

These keys are program-specific. Their
functions are determined by the installed
application software.

Indicator lights

These lights indicate whether [NumLock],
[CapsLock], or [ScrollLock] has been
activated.

Numeric keypad

These keys perform numeric functions and
software-defined functions, including cursor
control. The [NumLock] key allows you to
toggle between the numeric functions and
software-defined functions.

Cursor control key group

These keys control the movement of the
highlighted cursor on the monitor screen.

Alpha-numeric key group

These typewriter-specific keys feature
automatic-repeat capability. If you press and
hold down any of these keys, the keystroke
repeats automatically until released.

AlphaStation 500 Series User Information 1-7

2
Getting Started
Introduction
This chapter describes how to install, start, restart, and turn off your AlphaStation 500
Series system. You can also find information here about preloaded software as well as
guidelines for system security. Figure 2-1 shows a typical AlphaStation 500 Series system.

________________________WARNING __________________________
When unpacking and moving system components, be aware that some
components (such as the system unit or monitor) may be too heavy for you
to safely lift alone. If you are doubtful about whether you can lift these items
alone, please get assistance.
____________________________________________________________

AlphaStation 500 Series User Information 2-1

Getting Started

MA01000

Figure 2-1 AlphaStation 500 Series System

Before Starting Your System
Before you start your system, follow this procedure:
1.

Read and understand the information supplied with your system.

Select a well-ventilated site near a grounded power outlet and away from sources of
excessive heat. Also, use an appropriate power strip to isolate the site from electric
noise (for example, spikes, sags, and surges) produced by devices such as air
conditioners, large fans, radios, and televisions.

Save all shipping containers and packing material for repackaging or moving the
system later.

2-2 AlphaStation 500 Series User Information

Getting Started
_________________________ NOTES ____________________________
•

Do not install optional hardware or application software until you have
started your system and verified that the base system is working correctly.

•

On systems that have preloaded software, a label attached to the system unit
informs you that there is licensed software installed. Carefully review the
software license agreement shipped with your system.
____________________________________________________________

Identifying the Correct AC Power Cord
The proper AC power cord accompanies your AlphaStation 500 Series system. Because
variations exist from one country to another, and systems may be moved, inspect your
power cord to ensure that it is the correct one for your country or region. If you are not
sure that the supplied AC power cord is correct, contact your authorized Digital service
representative or distributor before you use it.
________________________WARNING __________________________
Do not attempt to modify or use an external 115V AC power cord for 230V
AC input power. Modifying the power cord can cause personal injury and
severe equipment damage.
____________________________________________________________
Power cords supplied with the Digital AlphaStation 500 Series system meet the following
criteria:
•

The cords are UL-listed and CSA-certified, rated for use at 250V AC with a current
rating that is at least 125% of the current rating of the Digital AlphaStation 500 Series
system. In Europe, the cordage carries the <HAR> mark.

•

The AC plug is terminated in a grounding-type male plug designed for use in the
region. It must also have marks showing certification by an agency acceptable in the
region.

•

The connector at the computer end must be an IEC1-type CEE2-22 female connector.

•

The cord length does not exceed 4.5 m (14.5 ft).

1 International Electrotechnical Commission.
2 International Commission for Conformity Certification of Electrical Equipment.

AlphaStation 500 Series User Information 2-3

Getting Started

Installing Your System
The AlphaStation 500 Series Installation Information you received with your system
graphically outlines the steps to follow to install your system.
1.

Make sure you received all of your system components. Use Appendix H, Equipment
Log, to list your equipment. If something is missing, please contact your distributor or
Digital representative.

Position your system so that air can flow freely to and from the vents, as shown in
Figure 2-2.

MA00975

Figure 2-2 System Enclosure Airflow
_______________________ CAUTIONS _________________________
To ensure that your system is properly cooled:
•

Make sure that air can freely flow into the front, out of the side and rear of
the system unit.
• Do not remove a filler plate until you are ready to add a new system
component.
___________________________________________________________

2-4 AlphaStation 500 Series User Information

Getting Started

Connecting System Components
To connect the components of your AlphaStation 500 Series system, refer to Figure 2-4
and follow this procedure:
__________________________NOTE ____________________________
The AlphaStation 500 Series system runs on 88V–264V AC and 47–63 Hz.
____________________________________________________________

230 V

Confirm that the voltage selector switch matches your local voltage (either 115 Volts
or 230 Volts), as Figure 2-3 shows.

115 V

MA00986

Figure 2-3 Voltage Select Switch
2.

Ensure that the On/Off switch is in the Off (0) position. See Figure 2-5 for a view of
the switch positions.

Connect the mouse, keyboard, video cable, and power cords to the system
components, as shown in Figure 2-4. There is one 68-pin (wide) SCSI external
expansion port in the lower-right rear panel.

AlphaStation 500 Series User Information 2-5

Getting Started
_________________________ NOTE____________________________
If you disconnect the mouse or keyboard during operation, data will be lost and
you will have to power-cycle the entire system.
___________________________________________________________
2

MA00991

Figure 2-4 Connecting Cables and the Power Cord

Audio connector (Headphone - top, Microphone - second from bottom)
 Keyboard/mouse connectors (Keyboard - top, Mouse - bottom)
 Monitor connector
 Network connectors (Twisted pair - top, ThinWire - bottom)
 Power connector

2-6 AlphaStation 500 Series User Information

Getting Started
4.

If you have an external small computer system interface (SCSI) interface or SCSI
storage box, connect the SCSI cable to the SCSI port on the rear of the system. See the
section on SCSI Termination in Chapter 3 for additional information.

Network Connection
The AlphaStation 500 Series MAU module has ThinWire, and twisted-pair connectors for
connecting to a network. Use the appropriate connector for your application.

Starting Your System
Perform the following steps to start your AlphaStation 500 Series system:
1.

Turn on the system unit, monitor power, and any external devices. Figure 2-5 shows
the location of the system unit On/Off button.

If necessary, adjust the monitor contrast and brightness to obtain a readable screen
display. Refer to the information supplied with your monitor for further instructions.

Allow your system to complete any power-on self tests and device initialization
messages. This will take approximately 1 minute. If you are using the Digital UNIX or
OpenVMS operating systems, and the auto_action environment variable is set to
Boot, the system starts as soon as the self tests have completed (less than 2 minutes).
If you are using Windows NT, the operating system starts after a countdown expires
(default is 10 seconds).

MA00996

Figure 2-5 Starting Your System

AlphaStation 500 Series User Information 2-7

Getting Started

Preloaded Operating System Software
Your AlphaStation 500 Series system comes with one of the following operating systems
preloaded:
•

Digital UNIX

•

OpenVMS
_________________________ NOTE____________________________
Windows NT is available but is not preloaded on your AlphaStation 500 Series
system.
___________________________________________________________

Depending on how the environment variables are set, your system shows one of the
operating system-specific displays described next, after the self tests complete
successfully.
Digital UNIX
If you are using the Digital UNIX operating system, either you see a >>> prompt (if
auto_action is set to Halt) or the system proceeds to boot Digital UNIX (if auto_action is
set to Boot) when you power on your system.

)

For more information, refer to your operating system documentation.

OpenVMS
If you are using the OpenVMS operating system, either you see a >>> prompt (if
auto_action is set to Halt) or the system proceeds to boot OpenVMS (if auto_action is set
to Boot) when you power on your system.

)

For more information, refer to your operating system documentation.

2-8 AlphaStation 500 Series User Information

Getting Started

Switching Console Firmware
To switch from the ARC console (used with the Microsoft Windows NT Workstation
operating system) to the SRM console (used with the Digital UNIX and OpenVMS
operating systems), follow these steps from the Boot menu:
1.

Select Supplementary menu...

Select Set up the system...

Select Switch to OpenVMS or Digital UNIX console

Select Switch to OpenVMS
-orSelect Switch to Digital UNIX

Select Setup menu...

Power-cycle the system (or press Reset button) to implement the change.

To switch from the SRM console to the ARC console,
at the SRM prompt (>>>), type: Set OS_TYPE NT
and power-cycle system.

)

If No Operating System Is Installed
If an operating system was not preloaded on your system, refer to your operating
system documentation for information on how to load it.

Turning Off Your System
Before turning off your system, make sure to save and close all open files. If you turn the
system off without saving and closing files, you could corrupt some or all of your data.
To turn off your system, follow this procedure:
1.

Close any application data files you have open as well as any applications you have
running. Most application programs prompt you to save the information before
closing.

Shut down the operating system with the appropriate command from Table 2-1 on the
following page.

AlphaStation 500 Series User Information 2-9

Getting Started
Table 2-1 System Shutdown Commands
Operating
System

Action

Windows NT

From the Program Manager File menu, choose Shutdown.
Choose the OK button to confirm.

Digital UNIX

Type the following from a superuser account:
shutdown -h now

OpenVMS

Type the following from a privileged account:
@sys$system:shutdown

Wait for the operating system to complete the shutdown process. For Digital UNIX or
OpenVMS, the SRM console prompt (>>>) is displayed. Windows NT displays a
window indicating it is safe to turn off or restart the system.

Do not turn off power to your system and peripherals until the shutdown sequence
completes.

Computer Security
Use the security lock and passwords to protect your Digital AlphaStation 500 Series
system.

Security Lock
To avoid theft of internal components, your Digital AlphaStation 500 Series system comes
with a security key lock, which is located on the back of your system unit. When this lock
is in the locked position, no one else can open the system box. Store the key in a safe
place.

Passwords
You can set your system for screen saver and pause screen passwords. See your operating
system documentation for more information on the availability and use of these options.

Posture and Work Habits
If you use poor posture while you work or if your equipment is poorly positioned, personal
injury may result (as suggested by certain recent scientific articles). Although other articles

2-10 AlphaStation 500 Series User Information

Getting Started
suggest that there is no cause and effect, we strongly recommend that you read and follow
the precautions outlined in Table 2-2. In addition, be sure to adjust your work area so that
you are comfortable.

Figure 2-6 Recommendations and Posture and Work Habits
Table 2-2 Recommendations for Posture and Work Habits
Adjust

Figure
Callout

Chair

Your feet are flat on the floor.

Your legs are vertical and form a right angle to the floor.

Your thighs are horizontal, and they are not bearing weight. To
prevent restriction of the blood flow, keep the backs of your knees
away from the seat so you do not compress the area behind them.

To allow the following conditions:

Your upper body is erect and your lower back is supported with a
backrest.

AlphaStation 500 Series User Information 2-11

Getting Started
Adjust
Keyboard and
Mouse

Figure
Callout
5

To allow the following conditions:
Your wrists are straight and do not flex more than 15 degrees.
They are supported and do not rest on sharp edges. If you use a
mouse, rest your hand on the mouse so your wrist is not on the
work surface. Operate the mouse close to your body's centerline.
Your upper arms are straight down at your sides, and your elbows
are close to your sides and support your arm weight. Forearms are
at a 70- to 90-degree angle.

Head

Avoid neck strain. Your head should incline downward, but no
more than 15 to 20 degrees.

Monitor

The monitor should be no higher than the level of your eyes and at
the correct distance for your vision.

Avoid eye fatigue, which can be caused by glare, image quality,
uncomfortable furniture, eye height, and uncorrected vision. If you
cannot focus to read at different distances, you may need special
glasses. Relax your eyes periodically by focusing on distant
objects.

Lighting

Direct lighting or sunlight on the screen causes glare and
reflections. Place lighting behind or to the side of your work area,
and distribute the lighting evenly on your work area.

Noise

Keep background noise at a minimum. Background noise above 65
dBa is tiring. Sound-absorbing materials (for example, curtains,
carpeting, and acoustic tile) can help reduce background noise.

Temperature

The temperature should be between 20° and 23°C (68° and 74° F).

Humidity

The humidity should be between 30% and 70%.

Ventilation

Provide adequate air ventilation to operate the equipment and
avoid fatigue.

Work Area

Your work area should be greater than 70 cm (28 inches) center to
center, preferably 152 cm (60 inches).

_______________________ WARNING__________________________
If you experience pain or discomfort while using your system, rest and
review the instructions for posture and work habits. If the pain or
discomfort continues after resuming work, discontinue use and report the
condition to your job supervisor or physician.
___________________________________________________________

2-12 AlphaStation 500 Series User Information

3
Installing System Options

Introduction
This chapter covers the following topics related to installing system options on the Digital
AlphaStation 500 Series system:
•

Opening and closing the system cover

•

Installing additional system memory

•

Installing expansion boards/PCI bus options

•

Installing internal drives

•

Connecting external devices

•

Cable layout for power, SCSI, FDI and audio cables
________________________ CAUTION ___________________________
When working on the internals of the system unit (for example, replacing an
option), you must wear a grounded wrist strap.
____________________________________________________________

AlphaStation 500 Series User Information 3-1

Installing System Options

Top Cover/Left Side Panel
To gain access to the inside of the AlphaStation 500 Series system unit, remove the top
cover, and the left side panel.

Removing the Top Cover and Left Side Panel
To remove the top cover and left side panel, follow this procedure:
1.

Turn off your system and all external peripheral devices.

Unplug the power cord from the wall outlet.

Wait at least 15 seconds, to allow time for the power supply capacitors to discharge
safely.

Unlock the top cover by turning the key counter clockwise, as shown in Figure 3-2.

MA00994

Figure 3-1 Unlocking the Top Cover

3-2 AlphaStation 500 Series User Information

Installing System Options
________________________ CAUTION ___________________________
To avoid system damage from static discharge, wear a grounded wrist strap
before you touch anything inside the system.
____________________________________________________________
5.

Facing the rear of the unit, locate and loosen the thumb screw that fastens the top
cover to the rear panel. Place your thumbs on the upper corners of the rear panel, pull
back on the cover sides, and lift the cover up and away from the enclosure.

If necessary to access the item you are servicing, the left side panel, nearest to PCI
options, is removed by sliding the panel toward the rear of the system unit (as shown
in Figure 3-2) and removing it.

MA00988

Figure 3-2 Removing the Top Cover and Left Side Panel

AlphaStation 500 Series User Information 3-3

Installing System Options

System Unit Components
Figure 3-3 shows the location of the AlphaStation 500 Series system unit components.
Table 3-1 lists the system unit components.

4
3
2
1

14
13

12
8
9
10
11

Figure 3-3 System Unit Components

3-4 AlphaStation 500 Series User Information

MA00989

Installing System Options
Table 3-1 System Unit Components
Figure
Legend

Component

Riser Card for PCI (peripheral component interconnect option cards)

Media adapter unit (MAU). Provides twisted pair and ThinWire Ethernet
connections.

Audio Card

Memory modules (two banks with four DIMMs in each bank)

Power supply and fan

Right upper external drive bay for 5.25-inch x 1.6 inch device (CD-ROM)

Customer Configuration Label

Right lower internal drive bay for:
one 3.5-inch x 1.6 inch device (optional) or
one 3.5-inch x 1 inch device (optional) or
two 3.5-inch x 1 inch devices (optional)

Left upper external drive bay for 3.5-inch x 1 inch device (Floppy) or tape
drive

Left lower internal drive bay for 3.5-inch x 1 inch device, not available
with tape option

System cooling fan

System board

PCI expansion slots, (three 32-bit slots)

PCI expansion slot, (one 64-bit slot)

AlphaStation 500 Series User Information 3-5

Installing System Options

System Board
Figure 3-4 shows the location of the AlphaStation 500 Series system board components.
Table 3-2 describes these components.
2

1
7

8
21
9

11
12
13

MA00997

Figure 3-4 System Board Components

3-6 AlphaStation 500 Series User Information

Installing System Options
Table 3-2 System Board Components
Figure
Legend

Components
1

System board

Parallel Port (J41)

External SCSI (J42)

3.5 inch removable media interface connector (Floppy) (J38)

Keyboard (top) /Mouse (bottom) connectors (J39)

Serial ports (Comm 1, top/ Comm 2, bottom) (J40)

Audio card (J36)

SROM port (J24)

Power connector (+5V sense, -5V sense) (J21)

Power connector (+3.43 sense) (J8)

Power connector (+12V) (J7)

LED’s Halt/Reset cable connector (J5)

Diagnostic port (MFG only) (J4)

Locating pin holes (2 places)

Cache fan connector (J3)

Connectors for DIMM memory modules (J23, J24, J25, J26, J27, J28,
J29, J30)

Cache

System fan connector (J1)

Alpha CPU

Mounting holes (9 places)

CIA Bridge

Riser card (J34)

Media Adapter Unit (MAU) Connector Header (J32)

Internal SCSI Header (J37)

AlphaStation 500 Series User Information 3-7

Installing System Options

System Memory
The AlphaStation 500 Series memory sub-system has two banks of memory, which include
(4 x 72) 8 byte Dual In-Line Memory Modules (DIMMs). The are two banks consisting
of four DIMMs. Adding more memory allows your system to run larger, more memoryintensive software. You can increase your system's RAM to 1 GB.

Cache Memory
Each AlphaStation 500 Series system has either 2 MB or 8 MB on the system board.
Cache size depends on the Model ordered.

Memory Configuration Rules
•

Random-access memory can be added only in four DIMM increments (four per bank).

•

There are two banks, A & B. Bank A includes J30, J28, J26 and J25. Bank B includes
J23, J29, J27, and J22. Refer to Figure 3-5 and Figure 3-6.

•

Always fill at least one bank completely (A or B)

•

To fill a bank, start at one end and fill every other DIMM socket. Each bank MUST be
completely filled with like DIMMs.

•

Do not mix DIMMs within a bank

•

Use same DIMM size within a bank.

•

Use same DIMM vendor within a bank (recommended).

3-8 AlphaStation 500 Series User Information

Installing System Options

DIMM Bank B
DIMM Bank A
DIMM Bank B
DIMM Bank A
DIMM Bank B
DIMM Bank A
DIMM Bank B
DIMM Bank A

MA00993

Figure 3-5 DIMM Bank Configuration

Adding or Removing Memory Modules (DIMMs)
To add or remove a set of memory modules (DIMMs) to a bank, see Figure 3-6 and follow
this procedure:
1.

Turn off your system and unplug the power cord from the wall outlet.

Unlock and remove the screw that secures the top cover and remove the cover, as
described earlier in this chapter.

To remove a DIMM, push back the latches  on the connector slot and lift the DIMM
straight up . Before installing a DIMM, inspect the connector ends of the DIMM 
and rotate DIMM to insure proper fit into DIMM connector slot. Install the DIMM
into the socket by inserting connecting end of the DIMM, straight down into the
socket until the two latches engage and lock. Refer to Figure 3-6. Repeat this
process for all four DIMMs.

AlphaStation 500 Series User Information 3-9

Installing System Options

MA00985

Figure 3-6 Installing a DIMM

Replace top cover, secure with screw and lock the key/lock, as described earlier in this
chapter.

Connect the power cord and plug it into the wall outlet.

3-10 AlphaStation 500 Series User Information

Installing System Options

Storage Devices
The AlphaStation 500 Series system supports five storage devices. The AlphaStation 500
Series system comes equipped with two accessible devices, a slimline 3.5-inch diskette or
optional tape drive, and a 5.25-inch half-high removable media device (CD-ROM). In
addition, up to three non-accessible, optional hard drives may be installed within the
internal storage bays. See Figure 3-3.

General Information on Installing Drives
This section covers general drive installation information, including internal and external
SCSI drives, external SCSI, and cable layouts.

SCSI Addresses (SCSI ID’s)
Before installing a SCSI drive, you must either set or verify the setting of the drive’s SCSI
address (SCSI ID). The SCSI controller chip is normally assigned device ID seven. Digital
recommends that you use Table 3-3 as a guide for the selection of an address for your
SCSI drive.
Table 3-3 SCSI Address Recommendations
SCSI Address (ID)

Device (Drive) Recommended

System disk (where your operating system resides)

Expansion/hard drive

Expansion

Tape drive

CD-ROM drive

Expansion

Host adapter (SCSI controller)

See Figure 1-2 for the location of the SCSI bus terminators. Refer to the section on SCSI
Connectors in Appendix C, Technical Specifications, for additional information.

AlphaStation 500 Series User Information 3-11

Installing System Options
________________________ CAUTION __________________________
Failure to properly set up the SCSI termination may result in loss of data or
damage to the file system.
___________________________________________________________

SCSI Termination
The AlphaStation 500 Series system contains an embedded SCSI bus that is used to
connect both the internal and external drives. Both ends (and only at the ends) of the SCSI
but MUST be terminated correctly.

External SCSI Connector Termination
An external terminator is required when the SCSI port is not being used.

Internal SCSI Termination
The internal SCSI cable used for the AlphaStation 500 Series is a flat ribbon cable with
integrated termination. Therefore, NO storage devices should have termination enabled.

SCSI Bus Length
The total SCSI bus length, including internal cables and etch on the motherboard as well
as the external cables between storage between the storage enclosures and the must not
exceed 3 meters (9.8 feet) for fast SCSI operation or 4 meters (13.1) feet for slow SCSI
(5MB/second). The AlphaStation 500 Series system’s internal SCSI length is 1.2 meters
(3.9 feet), leaving 1.8 meters (5.9 feet) available for fast SCSI use (2.8 meters [9.2 feet] for
external slow SCSI use).

3-12 AlphaStation 500 Series User Information

Installing System Options

Installing Optional Internal Storage Devices
This section tells you how to install optional hard drives into the two removable drive tray
brackets that are located in the internal mass storage bays (right & left). The SCSI hard
disk drives, CD-ROM, and floppy drives are all mounted on removable drive tray brackets.
To install an internal storage device, follow this procedure:
1.

Turn off your system and unplug the power cord from the wall outlet.

Unlock and remove the top cover, as described earlier in this chapter.

Installing Hard Disk Drives in the Lower Right Side Inner Bay
The lower right side drive bay (below the CD-ROM), contains a drive tray that
accommodates up to two hard drives: either one 3.5 inch x 1.0 inch hard disk, or one 3.5
inch x 1.6 inch hard disk, or two 3.5 inch x 1.0 inch hard disks. Due to thermal
considerations, you cannot install a 3.5 inch x 1.6 inch hard disk and a 3.5 inch x 1.0 inch
hard disk simultaneously in this bay. Follow these procedures:
1.

Set the SCSI drive device jumpers or switches for the desired SCSI ID (address). This
address depends on the unit numbers currently in use. (See Appendix D, Device
Mapping, for a list of typical SCSI ID assignments. Appendix H, Equipment Log,
contains space to record your systems SCSI ID assignments.) Follow the guidelines in
the manual that came with the drive.
_________________________ NOTES ____________________________
•

The CD-ROM is always installed in the top right side slot.

•

The CD-ROM and optional tape drives are narrow SCSI devices. You must
use a wide-to-narrow SCSI adapters with it. One adapter (part number 1704009-01) is supplied with the system.

• If you are using Wide SCSI drives, you do not need the adapter.
____________________________________________________________

AlphaStation 500 Series User Information 3-13

Installing System Options
Removing the CD-ROM
1. To access the lower right side drive bay, push in the button tab  on the enclosure
wall that releases the CD-ROM assembly. Slide CD-ROM back (towards the power
supply) . Lift the CD-ROM assembly up and out of the system unit as shown in
Figure 3-7 and Figure 3-8. The CD-ROM is secured within the bracket by two screws.
It is not necessary to remove the cables from the CD-ROM. Remove cables from the
drive only after the assembly has been lifted out of the system unit, if you must
remove them.
1

MA00982

Figure 3-7 Removing the CD-ROM Bracket

3-14 AlphaStation 500 Series User Information

Installing System Options

Removing the Drive Tray from the Lower Right Side Inner Bay
1.

Refer to your drive documentation to configure the drive. You must select a SCSI
address and make sure SCSI termination is disabled. Terminator power should be
enabled. Record the SCSI address you use in Appendix H.
To remove the lower right side drive tray, push in the button latch  on the right side
of enclosure that releases that drive tray. Slide it back , lift it up and out of the
enclosure, as shown in Figure 3-8.

MA00980

Figure 3-8 Removing the Hard Drive Tray Bracket

AlphaStation 500 Series User Information 3-15

Installing System Options

Installing Drives In the Right Side Bracket
_________________________ NOTE____________________________
•

The lower right side drive tray bracket will accommodate optional drives in
the following combinations only: one 1.6 inch high storage device in the
lower position only, or up to two 1.0 inch high devices (one in upper
position and one in lower position).
___________________________________________________________

MA00967

Figure 3-9 Installing Drives in the Right Side Bracket

3-16 AlphaStation 500 Series User Information

Installing System Options
1.

Orient the bracket, as shown in Figure 3-9. Position the drives so that the cable
connections face to the rear of the system. Select the bracket mounting holes that
match the threaded holes in the drives. Mount the drives in the tray bracket, securing
them with the four screws provided with each drive.

Connect the power and SCSI cables to the drives before fully inserting and securing
the devices. Refer to Figure 3-10, which depicts the rear view of both storage bays.
Figure 3-10 shows, in this example, the SCSI bus and power cabling configuration for
two optional 3.5-inch x 1.0 inch SCSI hard drives, in the bay beneath the CD-ROM.
Also shown, is the floppy drive bracket with the SCSI and power cabling for the one
optional 3.5 inch x 1 inch SCSI hard drive (in the lower position, beneath the floppy
drive).

MA00968

Figure 3-10 Cabling the Optional Hard Drives
3.

Replace the drive tray into the lower right side storage bay. Slide the bracket forward
until it locks in place. Refer to Figures 3-11 through 3-15 for cable additional cable
configurations.
Verify that the cables are connected in the correct orientation. All cables and most
connectors are keyed so that you cannot connect them incorrectly. If your drive is not
keyed, you must connect pin 1 of the cable to pin 1 of the connector.
Pin 1 of the cable is on the edge with the colored stripe or pattern. Pin 1 of the
connector should be marked with a small number "1" at one end of the connector or
with a small number “1” or “2” printed on the circuit board near one end of the
connector.

Replace the CD-ROM bracket assembly. Slide it forward until it locks in place.

Connect the power cord and plug it into the wall outlet.

AlphaStation 500 Series User Information 3-17

Installing System Options

J38
J37

7
4
5

6
2

MA00972

Figure 3-11 FDI/SCSI Cable Routing

Optional 3.5 inch x 1.6 inch SCSI disk or optional 3.5 inch x 1.0 inch SCSI disk *
 Optional 3.5 inch x 1.0 inch SCSI disk *
 CD-ROM Drive
 Optional Slimline 3.5 inch x 1 inch SCSI disk (not available with tape drive option)
 Floppy diskette drive or optional tape drive
 Adapter for SCSI Cable (Wide to Narrow)
 SCSI Cable
FDI Cable (Floppy Drive Interconnect)

*RULE: Use only one 3.5 inch x 1.0 inch device, or two 3.5 inch x 1.0 inch
devices or one 3.5 x 1.6 inch device. Do not mix a 3.5 inch x 1.0 inch
and a 3.5 inch x 1.6 inch device in this storage tray.

3-18 AlphaStation 500 Series User Information

Installing System Options

__________________________NOTE ____________________________
•

In Figure 3-11 please note that on the FDI cable , there is a drive end and
a controller end. You must check the label on the cable to insure correct
orientation. Make sure drive end is connected to drive, controller end
connected to system board connector (J38).
____________________________________________________________

AlphaStation 500 Series User Information 3-19

Installing System Options

1
4

MA00974

Figure 3-12 Audio Cable Routing

Audio Card Left and Right LINE IN from CD-ROM
 CD-ROM Left and Right LINE OUT
 CD-ROM Audio Cable
 Cable to Internal speaker
 Cable connects to internal speaker, located in front panel.

3-20 AlphaStation 500 Series User Information

Installing System Options

J21

1
2

J7
3

MA00973

Figure 3-13 Power Cable Configuration

Optional 3.5 inch x 1.6 inch SCSI disk or optional 3.5 inch x 1.0 inch SCSI disk *
 Optional 3.5 inch x 1.0 inch SCSI disk *
 CD-ROM Drive
 Optional Slimline 3.5 inch x 1 inch SCSI disk
 Floppy diskette drive
*RULE: Use only one 3.5 inch x 1 inch device, or two 3.5 inch x 1 inch
devices or one 3.5 x 1.6 inch device. Do not mix a 3.5 inch x 1 inch
and a 3.5 inch x 1.6-inch device in this storage tray.

AlphaStation 500 Series User Information 3-21

Installing System Options

J32

MA00970

Figure 3-14 MAU Cable Configurations

MAU card (cable connects to MAU card connector J2)
 MAU cable (connects to system board connector J32)

3-22 AlphaStation 500 Series User Information

Installing System Options

MA00971

Figure 3-15 Fan and LED Cable Connections

Cable connection for LEDs and Halt/Reset lights (J5)
 Cable connection for Cache Fan (J3)
 Cable connection for System Fan (J1)

AlphaStation 500 Series User Information 3-23

Installing System Options

Installing a Hard Disk Drive in the Left Side Storage Bay
An optional 3.5 inch x 1.0 inch hard disk can be installed in the left side storage bay. The
drive is installed in the lower position of drive tray that contains the floppy diskette drive.
Note that this hard drive is not available with a tape drive option.
To install a hard disk in this bay, follow these procedures:
1.

Follow the guidelines in the manual that came with the drive.

Removing the Floppy Drive Tray Assembly
To remove the floppy drive tray assembly from the system unit, see Figure 3-16 and
follow this procedure:
1.

Turn off your system and unplug the power cord from the wall outlet.

Unlock and remove the top cover panel, as described earlier in this chapter.

Push in the tabs  on either side of the rear of the floppy drive tray to release it from
the enclosure. Slide the drive assembly  toward the rear of the system unit, lift and
remove it.
Remove the data and power cables from the devices in the floppy drive assembly.
Note the position of the cables so that you can reconnect them to the correct devices
later.

3-24 AlphaStation 500 Series User Information

Installing System Options

MLO-013734

Figure 3-16 Removing the Floppy Drive Tray Assembly

AlphaStation 500 Series User Information 3-25

Installing System Options
Removing the Floppy Drive from the Original Drive Tray
To remove the floppy from the left side drive tray assembly (original design), see Figure 317 and follow this procedure:
1.

Remove the four mounting screws  on both sides of the drive. Push back on the
clamps  that hold the drive and slide the floppy drive  out of the drive tray
assembly.
Remove the EMI shield  that is under the floppy drive.

MA00977

Figure 3-17 Removing the Floppy Drive (Original Tray)

3-26 AlphaStation 500 Series User Information

Installing System Options
________________________ CAUTION ___________________________
Be sure to use the screws that came with the drive. Other screws may be too
long and could damage the internal mechanism of the drive.
____________________________________________________________
Removing the Floppy Drive from the Drive Tray (Re-Designed)
To remove the floppy from the left side drive tray assembly (re-designed), see Figure 3-18
and follow this procedure:
1.
2.

Remove the two mounting screws  on both sides of the drive. Slide the floppy drive
 out of the drive tray assembly.
Remove screws , and the EMI shields  & , that are under the floppy drive.
6

2
4
1

MLO-013731

Figure 3-18 Removing the Floppy Drive (Re-designed Tray)

AlphaStation 500 Series User Information 3-27

Installing System Options
Installing an Optional Hard Drive in the Original Left-side Drive Tray
1. Insert the optional hard drive into the lower position on the drive tray. Secure with the
four mounting screws to the drive tray as shown in Figure 3-19.

MA00976

Figure 3-19 Installing the Hard Drive in the Original Left-side Drive Tray

2. Replace the EMI shield and reinstall the floppy drive to the drive tray with the four
screws (Figure 3-17).
3.

Connect SCSI and power cables. (See Figures 3-10, 3-11, and 3-13)

Reinstall the drive tray assembly back into position in the left-side storage bay.

3-28 AlphaStation 500 Series User Information

Installing System Options
Installing an Optional Hard Drive in the Re-designed Left-side Drive Tray
1. Insert the optional hard drive into the lower position on the drive tray. Secure with the
four mounting screws to the drive tray as shown in Figure 3-20.

MLO-013732

Figure 3-20 Installing Optional Hard Drive (Re-designed Tray)

AlphaStation 500 Series User Information 3-29

Installing System Options
Installing an Optional Tape Drive in the Redesigned Left-Side Drive Tray
1. Insert the optional tape drive into position in the drive tray as shown in Figure 3-21.
2.

Secure with the four mounting screws.

Connect SCSI and power cables.

MLO-013735

Figure 3-21 Installing a Tape Drive in the Redesigned Left-side Drive Tray

Replacing the Drive Tray Assembly in the System
To replace the drive tray assembly in the system, follow this procedure:
1.

Reconnect the SCSI and power cables to the drives.

Replace the drive tray assembly in the system unit by sliding it forward until it is
properly positioned. Ensure that the two mounting tabs on the drive tray assembly
engage the mounting finger and slot in the system unit.

Push bracket forward until tabs lock tray in place.

Replace and lock the top cover, as described at the end of this chapter.

Connect the power cord and plug it into the wall outlet.

3-30 AlphaStation 500 Series User Information

Installing System Options

PCI Expansion Options
The AlphaStation 500 Series system features four expansion slots, one 64-bit PCI slot, and
three 32-bit PCI slots. Refer to Figure 3-22 and Table 3-4.

64 Bit PCI Option Slot
32 Bit PCI Option Slot
32 Bit PCI Option Slot
32 Bit PCI Option Slot

MA00992

Figure 3-22 PCI Option Slots
Table 3-4 PCI Option Slot Locations
Figure
Legend

Components

64 Bit PCI Option Slot

32 Bit PCI Option Slot

PCI Bus
The PCI bus is an industry-standard I/O bus that is the preferred bus for high-performance
I/O options. The system supports 32-bit and 64-bit PCI option modules.

)

PCI option modules require no additional configuration procedures; the system
automatically recognizes the modules and assigns the appropriate system resources.
Refer to your option module documentation for additional information.

AlphaStation 500 Series User Information 3-31

Installing System Options

Installing Expansion Modules
To install an expansion module, see Figure 3-23 and follow this procedure:
1.

Turn off your system and unplug the power cord.

Unlock and remove the top cover and left side panel, as described earlier in this
chapter.

Pick an available slot for PCI options for your board.

Unscrew and remove the metal filler plate for the slot you have chosen.

Insert the new expansion module into the socket  in the Riser board. Push the
module firmly into the socket.
__________________________ Note ____________________________
To ease future installations, it is recommended that PCI options be installed in
the bottom PCI slot first.
___________________________________________________________

Replace the screw  to secure the module at the rear panel.

3-32 AlphaStation 500 Series User Information

Installing System Options

2
1

MA00984

Figure 3-23 Installing an Expansion Module

AlphaStation 500 Series User Information 3-33

Installing System Options

Replacing the Left Side Panel and Top Cover
To replace the left side panel and top cover, see Figure 3-24 and follow this procedure:
1.

To replace the left side panel, line up the 4 locating pins on the bottom of the panel
with the slot in the enclosure, push in and slide forward to lock into place.

Slide the top cover forward to lock into place. Secure top cover with thumbscrew and
lock the top cover. (See Figure 3-24)

)

Connect the power cord and plug it into the wall outlet and turn on the system.

For more information on operating system-specific options, refer to your operating
system and option documentation.

3-34 AlphaStation 500 Series User Information

Installing System Options

MA00987

Figure 3-24 Replacing the Top Cover

AlphaStation 500 Series User Information 3-35

Installing System Options

Connecting External Options
__________________________ Note ____________________________
Be sure to read the instructions that come with the printer or SCSI device. If the
cable supplied with the printer or SCSI device has the wrong type of connector,
you will need an adapter or a different cable.
___________________________________________________________

Connecting a Printer or Other Parallel Device
Connect the cable from the printer or other parallel device to the parallel port on rear panel
of the system. (See Figure 2-4)

Connecting an External SCSI Option
To connect an external SCSI device, or a SCSI expansion box, follow these steps:
Set the drive jumpers or switches for the desired SCSI ID.
Connect the option’s SCSI cable to the port. Be sure that you use a cable with a wide SCSI
68-pin type connector.
Terminate the new end of the bus at the last external SCSI device, using the appropriate
terminator. Make sure that any other external SCSI devices have their terminators removed
or disabled.

3-36 AlphaStation 500 Series User Information

4
Troubleshooting
Introduction
This chapter describes initial and general troubleshooting as well as the error beep codes.

)

Refer to the documentation supplied with additional options if you are experiencing
problems with specific options that you have installed.

Initial Troubleshooting
To troubleshoot your AlphaStation 500 Series system initially, follow this procedure:
1.

Check that the power indicator is on.

Check the power indicator on the monitor.

Make sure that all cables and connections are secure.

Press the Halt/Reset button. If your system fails to boot, turn it off, wait 20 seconds,
and turn it back on.

Contact your Digital service representative or service provider for software- or
hardware-related problems by calling 1-800-354-9000 or 1-800-DIGITAL.
__________________________NOTE ____________________________
If you need to return a failed component, pack it in its original container and
return it to Digital Equipment Corporation or to your service provider.
____________________________________________________________

AlphaStation 500 Series User Information 4-1

Troubleshooting

General Troubleshooting
Tables 4-1 through Table 4-4 list how to identify and solve problems that could occur with
your system, disk drive, and monitor.
Table 4-1 System Troubleshooting
Problem

Possible Cause

Action

Power indicator not on.

System is not plugged in.

Turn off the system, plug it in,
and then turn it back on again.

No power at the wall outlet.

Use another wall outlet.

Power supply failure.

Contact your service
representative.

Internal power supply cables
not reconnected after
installing options.

Reconnect cables.

Removable side panel not
installed properly.

Reinstall removable side panel.

Brightness and contrast
controls are not correctly
set.

Adjust the brightness and contrast controls.

Monitor is off.

Turn on the monitor.

Monitor cable or power cord
is incorrectly installed.

Check all monitor connections.

Configuration error. SRM
console may be set directly
to “Serial.”

Set the SRM console to
“Graphics.” Use the set
console_graphics command.
See pp. A-1 and A-2. Refer to
the video module documentation
for more information.

Power is on, but there is no
screen display.

Try another monitor.
Monitor is defective.
Replace the video module.
Defective video controller
module.

4-2 AlphaStation 500 Series User Information

Troubleshooting
Table 4-1 System Troubleshooting (continued)
Problem

Possible Cause

Action

System does not boot

Operating system software is
not installed on the hard disk
drive.

Install the appropriate operating
system.

System cannot find the boot
device.

Check the system configuration
for correct device parameters.
Digital UNIX and OpenVMS:
Use the SRM show config
and show device commands.
(Refer to Appendix A, “Console
Commands.”) Use gathered
information to identify target
devices for the boot command
and verify that the system
acknowledges all installed
devices.
Windows NT: Use the ARC
console to display the available
boot devices. First, from the
Boot menu select
Supplementary menu...;
then select Display
hardware configuration.
Verify that the target boot device
is listed.

Environment variables
incorrectly set.

Check and set the environment
variables, if necessary.
Digital UNIX and OpenVMS:
Use the SRM console show
envar and set envar
commands to check and set the
values assigned to boot-related
variables such as auto_action,
bootdef_dev, and boot_osflag.
(Refer to Appendix A, “Console
Commands.”)

AlphaStation 500 Series User Information 4-3

Troubleshooting
Table 4-1 System Troubleshooting (continued)
Problem

Possible Cause

Action

System does not boot.
(continued)

Environment variables
incorrectly set.

Windows NT:
From the Boot menu, select
Supplementary menu...;
then select Setup the
system...; then select Set
default environment
variables. (Refer to
Appendix A, “Console
Commands.”)

Hard disk drive is not
correctly formatted, or the
requested partition does not
exist.

Format the hard disk drive or
correctly partition the hard disk
drive using the supplied
software.

There is no software on the
requested partition.

Install software on the requested
partition.

System does not boot or
powers up for seconds only.

Cache fan, system fan, or
internal power supply fan
has failed, causing power
supply to shut down.

Check all fans for spin. Replace
defective fan. Contact your
service representative.

Target boot device not listed
in show device, show
config (SRM), or
Display hardware
configuration (ARC)

Loose cables.

Secure all cable connections.

SCSI drive jumpers
incorrectly set.

Check all SCSI devices for
incorrect or conflicting IDs.
Refer to the hard disk drive
documentation.

SCSI bus termination
incorrectly set.

Check that the SCSI bus is
properly terminated. Refer to
Chapter 3 for more information.

4-4 AlphaStation 500 Series User Information

Troubleshooting
Table 4-1 System Troubleshooting (continued)
Problem

Possible Cause

Action

No response to keyboard
commands

Keyboard is passwordprotected.

Enter the keyboard password,
if supported by your operating
system.

Keyboard is not connected.

Connect the keyboard to the
keyboard port.3

Keyboard is connected to
the mouse port.

Connect the keyboard to the
keyboard port.1

Mouse is not connected.

Connect the mouse.4

Mouse is connected to the
keyboard port.

Connect the mouse to the mouse
port.2

Mouse driver not installed.

Install the appropriate mouse
driver. Refer to your application
software documentation.

Mouse ball sticking.

Clean the mouse. Refer to
Appendix B, System Care, for
information on cleaning the
mouse.

No response to mouse
commands

3Turn the system off before connecting the keyboard.
4Turn the system off before connecting the mouse.

AlphaStation 500 Series User Information 4-5

Troubleshooting

Table 4-2 Disk Drive Troubleshooting
Problem

Possible Cause

Action

Hard disk drive cannot read
or write information

Incorrect disk drive jumper
settings.

Refer to the disk drive
installation instructions.

Loose or incorrectly
installed cables.

Make sure all cables are
correctly installed.

SCSI hard disk drive is not
correctly formatted or
partitioned.

Format and partition as required
using the supplied operating
system.

Diskette is not formatted.

Format the diskette.

Diskette is wrong density.

Use a diskette of the proper
density for your drive.

Diskette is worn or
damaged.

Try another diskette.

Diskette is write-protected.

Slide the write-protect switch so
the hole is not visible.

Diskette drive is empty.

Insert a diskette.

Diskette drive cannot read
or write information.

4-6 AlphaStation 500 Series User Information

Troubleshooting
Table 4-3 Monitor Troubleshooting
Problem

Possible Cause

Action

Monitor power indicator is
not on

Monitor is turned off.

Turn on the monitor.

Power cord is not
connected.

Connect the power cord to the
system or a wall outlet.

No power at wall outlet.

Use another outlet.

Power indicator is defective.

Contact your service
representative or Digital
Equipment Corporation.

Monitor incorrectly
adjusted.

Adjust accordingly.

Wrong type of monitor.

Try another monitor.

Defective monitor.

Try another monitor.

Monitor signal cable
incorrectly installed.

Straighten any bent connector
pins and then reconnect the
monitor.

Distorted, rolling, or
flickering screen display, or
wrong or uneven color

AlphaStation 500 Series User Information 4-7

Troubleshooting

SROM Status and Error Codes
Table 4-4 shows status and error codes you may encounter while using the AlphaStation
500 Series system.
Table 4-4 Status and Error Codes
Status Code

Meaning

Power on, SROM program entered, beginning to initialize EV5 CPU

Initializing cpu/system interface, Sizing MemorySizing, configuring
third level cache and MMB data path

Sizing CPU speed

Sizing and initializing the scache

Initializing and testing the PCI bus, testing PCI bus data path

Sizing the bcache

Sizing memory

Configuring memory

Initializing memory test

Testing bcache bits

Testing memory bits

Testing bcache addresses

Testing memory addresses

Testing bcache cells

Testing memory cells

Initializing all memory

Loading flash ROM code

Reinitializing cpu/system interface

Code execution complete

4-8 AlphaStation 500 Series User Information

Troubleshooting
Table 4-4 Status and Error Codes (continued)
Nonfatal Error Code

Meaning

No bcache size bits detected

Failed to detect CPU speed

Failed to detect real-time clock; system defaults to 300 Mhz,
providing the most relaxed operating parameters

Memory datapath error. If there is no more memory to reconfigure
after the offending bank has been mapped out, error code FA will be
displayed (See FATAL errors).

Memory address line error; system maps out the offending bank and
reconfigures without it. If there is no more memory to reconfigure
after the offending bank has been mapped out, error code FA will be
displayed (See FATAL errors).

Bcache cell error

Memory cell error

ROM checksum error

Fatal Error Code

Meaning

No scache bits set in sc_ctl register

Floppy drive error

No MMBs, or MMB mismatch *

Reserved

NO usable memory detected, or all detected memory fails the memory
tests

Sys init failure — read/write miscompare in one of the control/status
registers

PCI data path error

pceb init failure

System finds a bad CIA memory csr

Bcache data path error

Bcache address line error

Bcache cell error

Reserved

ROM data path read error

Reserved

* AlphaStation 500 Series have no MMB’s, this is a message for AlphaStation 600 Series.

AlphaStation 500 Series User Information 4-9

Troubleshooting

Equipment Log
For your convenience, Appendix H includes a form on which you may record all model
numbers and serial numbers for your hardware components (system unit, monitor,
keyboard, and mouse) and system hardware configuration information (CPU, memory size,
drive size, ports, and so on).

4-10 AlphaStation 500 Series User Information

A
Console Commands
Introduction
The AlphaStation 500 Series system contains two console subsystems:
•

Advanced RISC computing (ARC) firmware that supports the Windows NT operating
system

•

System reference manual (SRM) firmware that supports the Digital UNIX and
OpenVMS operating systems

The console firmware resides in 1MB of flashROM on the system board. FlashROM
memory can be updated in the field.
This appendix gives a basic description of commands for each console.

ARC Console
The ARC console supports the use of the Windows NT operating system. The ARC
console uses a menu interface. When an AlphaStation 500 Series system with Windows
NT is turned on, a menu similar to the following displays after initialization:
ARC Multiboot Alpha AXP Version 4.xx
Copyright (c) 1993 - 1995 Microsoft Corporation
Copyright (c) 1993 - 1995 Digital Equipment Corporation
Boot menu:
Boot Windows NT
Boot an alternate operating system
Run a program
Supplementary menu...

AlphaStation 500 Series User Information A-1

Console Commands
Use the arrow keys to select, then press Enter.
During initialization, the firmware checks the information stored in the nonvolatile
memory. If the information is unreadable or inconsistent, a warning message displays. The
warning message identifies the areas that must be fixed prior to booting Windows NT.

Commands You Need to Know
The sections that follow describe ARC console commands that you need to know.
Display Hardware Configuration
The Display hardware configuration command is located in the
Supplementary menu. Use this command to display information about:
•

Devices detected (and supported) by the ARC console

•

Alpha AXP processor revision, speed, and physical memory size

•

Video option detected

•

PCI slots, including vendor, revision, and device type

Set Default Environment Variables
The Set default environment variables command is located in the Setup
menu. Use this command to specify the location of the default system partition. For
example, when the partition is on a SCSI hard disk, you are prompted for the SCSI bus
number, the SCSI ID of the drive, and the partition number. These values set an
environment variable. Windows NT uses the environment variable to determine the correct
drive and partition to boot from.
You must know your disk configuration before performing these steps. If you are unsure
about your disk configuration, select Display hardware configuration from the
Supplementary menu. (See the previous section.)

When the ARC boot menu appears, select Supplementary menu, and press
[Enter]. Select Set up the system . . . and press [Enter].

Select Set default environment variables and press [Enter].

For the system partition location, select SCSI Hard Disk and press [Enter].

Enter the SCSI bus number (typically, 0) and the SCSI ID of the disk where the
partition resides.

A-2 AlphaStation 500 Series User Information

Console Commands
__________________________ Note _____________________________
If you are unsure about the environment values, accept the default values of 0. If
these values are incorrect for your system, (for example, if your hard disk drives
are on a SCSI bus 1, through a secondary controller), Windows NT setup will
prompt you to run the ARCINST utility. The ARCINST utility provides valid
values that you can use to set this environment variable correctly. (Refer to
Appendix E for information on running the ARCINST utility.)
____________________________________________________________
5.

Enter the partition number on the disk, which should be 2, and press [Enter].

Set Default Configuration
The Set default configuration command is located in the Setup menu. Use this
command to select:
•

Monitor resolution

•

Diskette drive capacity

•

Keyboard language

•

SCSI controller (host) ID (typically, 7)

•

EISA bus configuration

For example, when selected, the Set default configuration command prompts
you to make the following choices:
Select monitor resolution:
1280x1024
1024x768
800x600
640x480

Select first floppy drive capacity:
5.25” 1.2MB
3.5” 1.44MB
3.5” 2.88
none

AlphaStation 500 Series User Information A-3

Console Commands
Select second floppy drive capacity:
5.25” 1.2MB
3.5” 1.44MB
3.5” 2.88
none
Select keyboard:
U.S.

101-key keyboard

Japanese

106-key keyboard

French

102-key keyboard

German

102-key keyboard

Spanish

102-key keyboard

Spanish

variation

Canadian/French

102-keyboard

Swiss

102-key keyboard

Italian

102-key keyboard

Finnish/Swedish keyboard
Norwegian keyboard
Danish

102-key keyboard

U.K.

102-key keyboard

Enter SCSI Host ID (0 - 7) for SCSI bus number 0: 7
Setting the Date and Time
The Set system time command is located in the Setup menu. Use this command
to set the system’s date and time.
Selecting a Default Language
The first time power is applied after updating the ARC console firmware, you are
prompted to select a default ARC console language.
1.

At the Set system language menu, select either English or Other
language as appropriate. If you selected English, your Alpha system displays the
Boot menu (or the Setup menu if you selected the Set system language
command from there), and you have completed this task.

A-4 AlphaStation 500 Series User Information

Console Commands
If you selected Other language, you are prompted for the location of the
message and font files. Go to step 2.
2.

Insert the diskette or CD-ROM containing the ARC console firmware message and
font files into a drive. If the files are located on your hard disk, go to step 3.

Select either Floppy disk, CD-ROM, or Hard Disk as appropriate, and press
[Enter]. The languages available are displayed on the screen.

At the Language menu, select the language of your choice and press [Enter].

The screen clears and you are asked if you would like to save the language files to
hard disk. Select Yes and press [Enter].

You are prompted to choose a location on the hard disk for the language files. (A
default location is selected.) Press [Enter] to accept the default; otherwise, select
Alternate Hard Disk location and press [Enter].

Edit the partition and the directory location to indicate where you wish to store the
language files, then press [Enter]. The language files are copied to the hard disk, and the
ARC Boot menu appears in the language you selected.
__________________________ Note _____________________________
You can also change the default language at the other time by selecting Set up
the system, then selecting Set system language, and following the
prompts.
____________________________________________________________
Manage Boot Selection Menu
You reach the Boot selection menu by selecting Manage boot selection menu
from the Setup menu. Use the Boot selection menu to add, change, check, delete, dump
(list), and rearrange boot selections.
Initially, select Add a boot selection. You are then prompted to select:
•

A system partition for this boot selection. (The partition defined by the Set
default environment variables command should be one of your choices.)
Select a system partition for this boot selection.
SCSI

Bus 0

Hard Disk 0

Partition 2

New System Partition
(The partition defined by the Set default environment variables command
must be one of the available choices.)
•

The osloader directory and name.

AlphaStation 500 Series User Information A-5

Console Commands
Enter the osloader directory and name:
\os\winnt\osloader.exe
•

Whether or not the operating system is in the same partition as the osloader.
Is the operating system in the same partition as the
osloader:
Yes
No

•

The operating system root directory.
Enter the operating system root directory: \winnt

•

A name (identifier) for this boot selection.
Enter a name for this boot selection: Windows NT

•

Whether or not the debugger should be initialized at startup time.
Do you want to initialize the debugger at boot time?:
Yes
No

After you add a boot selection, use the Check boot selections command to
perform verification testing of the selections. If the system detects an error, it prompts you
to ignore, delete, or change the boot selection.
Along with adding boot selections, the Boot selections menu allows you to:
Change a boot selection
Check boot selections
Delete a boot selection
Dump boot selections
Rearrange boot selections

Machine Specific Setup
You reach the Machine specific setup menu from the Setup menu. Use this menu to
control PCI parity checking, which is (by default) set to On, and SCSI termination of the
external portion of the SCSI bus, which is (by default) set to Internal.

A-6 AlphaStation 500 Series User Information

Console Commands
Setting PCI Parity
PCI parity is controlled for the Machine Specific Setup menu. The setting
controls PCI parity checking at the PCI bridge chip. The new value becomes effective after
an inti or power cycle.
From the Machine Specific Setup menu, select the appropriate line and press
[Enter]. The “*” shows which parity mode is selected.
(

) PCI parity checking enabled

(

) PCI parity checking disabled

When you enable parity checking, the following message is displayed:
Certain PCI adapters have been known to generate bad parity on
the PCI, resulting in system errors.
Please ensure that your specific PCI configuration will
operate correctly prior to turning on parity checking.
Are you sure you want to do this?
Yes
No
Boot (Boot Selection Identifier)
The Boot command is the first selection in the Boot menu. Use this command to start up
Windows NT using the default boot selection identifier (which is specified in the Boot
selection menu). The default boot selection identifier is the one at the top of the list. You
can change the order of the list by selecting the Rearrange boot selections
command from the Boot selection menu.
Boot an Alternate Operating System
The Boot an alternate operating system command is located in the Boot
menu. Use this command to select a boot selection identifier that is different from the
default selection. For example, if you have multiple versions of Windows NT installed,
each with its own unique boot selection identifier, use this command to select the version
you want to boot.

Other Commands of Interest
The sections that follow describe ARC console commands that you may find useful.
Setup Autoboot
The Setup autoboot command is located in the Setup menu. Use this command to
enable automatic booting of the system. When you enable autoboot, you will also be

AlphaStation 500 Series User Information A-7

Console Commands
prompted to enter a countdown value (10 seconds is the default). The ARC console will
wait for the duration of the countdown value before booting the system.
Install New Firmware
The Install new firmware is located in the Supplementary menu. Use this
command to install firmware upgrades. When selected, the diskette drive and CD-ROM
will be checked for the firmware update tool. If the proper media is not present, this
command will time out. Follow the instructions packaged with the firmware update. (Also
refer to Appendix E, Updating System Firmware.)
Install Windows NT from CD-ROM
The Install Windows NT from CD-ROM command is located in the
Supplementary menu. You must put the Microsoft Windows NT CD into the CD drive
before selecting this command.
Switch to OpenVMS or Digital UNIX Console
The Switch to OpenVMS or Digital UNIX console command is located in
the Setup menu. Use this command to select the operating system console that should be
launched at the next power cycle.

SRM Console
The SRM console supports the Digital UNIX and OpenVMS operating systems. The SRM
console offers many different commands. For a complete list of SRM commands, type
help at the SRM prompt (>>>). This section describes environment variables and the
following commands:
•

boot

•

set

•

show

•

examine

•

deposit

A-8 AlphaStation 500 Series User Information

Console Commands

SRM Console Conventions
Table A-1 lists SRM console conventions.
Table A-1 SRM Console Convention
Item

Convention

Console prompt

>>>

Continuation line prompt

Maximum command length

255 characters.

Multiple contiguous spaces or tabs

Treated as a single space.

Command abbreviations

Allowed, if not ambiguous.

Command qualifiers or options

Prefix with a space and a dash (-).

Numbers

Hexadecimal, unless otherwise specified.
(Note: Registers such as R0–R31 are shown in
decimal notation.)

AlphaStation 500 Series User Information A-9

Console Commands

SRM Console Shortcut Keys
Table A-2 lists SRM console shortcut keys and their functions.
Table A-2 SRM Console Shortcut Keys
Shortcut Key

Function

Return

Å Backspace

Terminates command line input.

[Ctrl]+[A]

Toggles insert/overstrike mode. (Overstrike is the
default.)

[Ctrl]+[B],

Deletes the previously typed character.

Ç, or È

[Ctrl]+[C]
[Ctrl]+[D] or
[Ctrl]+[E]
[Ctrl]+[F] or

Recalls previous commands. (The last 16 commands
are stored.)
Terminates the foreground process.

Moves the cursor left one position.

Moves the cursor right one position.

Moves the cursor to the end of the line.

[Ctrl]+[H]

Moves the cursor to the beginning of the line.

[Ctrl]+[O]

Suppresses/resumes (toggles) console output.

[Ctrl]+[Q]

XON, resumes the flow of data to the console.

[Ctrl]+[S]

XOFF, stops the flow of data to the console.

[Ctrl]+[U]

Deletes the entire line.

[Ctrl]+[R]

Retypes the current command line.

A-10 AlphaStation 500 Series User Information

Console Commands

Boot Command
The boot command performs the following functions:
•

Initializes the processor

•

Loads a program image from the specified boot device

•

Transfers control to the loaded image

The syntax of the boot command is:
boot [-file <filename>] [-flags <longword>[,<longword>]]
[-protocols <enet_protocol>] [-halt] [<boot_device>]
where:
Command Option

Description

-file <filename>

Specifies the name of a file to load into the system. For
booting from Ethernet, this name is limited to 15
characters. Use the set_boot_file command to set
the environment variable that specifies a default boot file.

-flags
<longword>[,<longword>]

Specifies additional information for the operating system.
For systems with OpenVMS, root number and boot flags
are specified here. For Digital UNIX systems, the
following flag parameters may be used:
i = interactive boot
s = boot to single user
a = autoboot to multi-user
Use the set_boot_osflags command to set an
environment variable that specifies a default boot flag
value.

-protocols
<enet_protocol>

Specifies the Ethernet protocol(s) that will be used for a
network boot. Values may be mop or bootp.

-halt

Forces the bootstrap operation to halt and invoke the
console program after the image is loaded and the page
tables and other data structures are set up.

<boot_device>

Specifies a device path or list of devices that the
firmware will attempt to boot. Use the
set_bootdef_dev command to set an environment
variable that specifies a default boot device.

AlphaStation 500 Series User Information A-11

Console Commands
Boot Command Examples
Table A-3 shows boot command examples and their descriptions.
Table A-3 Boot Command Examples
Command

Description

>>>boot

Boots the system from the
default boot device.

>>>boot ewa0

Boots the system from
Ethernet port ewa0.

>>>boot -file dec2.sys mke0

Boots the file named
dec2.sys from Ethernet port
mke0.

>>>boot -protocol bootp eza0

Boots using TCP/IP BOOTP
protocol from Ethernet port
eza0.

>>>boot -flags 0,1

Boots the system from the
default boot device using flag
settings 0,1.

>>>boot -halt dka0

Loads the image from disk
dka0, but remains in console
mode.

A-12 AlphaStation 500 Series User Information

Console Commands

Set Command
The set command is used to set or modify the value of an environment variable.
Environment variables are used to pass configuration information between the console and
the operating system.
The syntax of the set command is:
set <envar> <value> [-default] [-integer] [-string]
where:
Command Option

Description

<envar>

The environment variable to be assigned a new value.

<value>

The value that is assigned to the environment variable.
It can be either a numeric value or an ASCII string.

-default

Restores an environment variable to its default value.

-integer

Creates an environment variable as an integer.

-string

Creates an environment variable as a string.

AlphaStation 500 Series User Information A-13

Console Commands
Set Command Examples
Table A-4 shows set command examples and their descriptions.
Table A-4 Set Command Examples
Command

Description

>>>set bootdef_dev ewa0

The default boot device is set to ewa0.

>>>set auto_action boot

The console will attempt to boot following
an error, halt, or power cycle.

>>>set boot_osflags 0,1

The default boot flags are set to 0,1.

>>>set foobar 5

An environment variable called foobar is
created and given a value of 5.

>>>set os_type NT

Sets up the system to start the ARC console
after the next power cycle.

Show Command
The show command displays the current value of a specified environment variable. The
show command also displays information about the system, according to the arguments
entered.
The syntax of the show command is:
show [{config, device, hwrpb, memory, pal, version,
<envar>...}]
where:
Command Option

Description

config

Displays the current memory configuration, PCI
logical slots, and ISA logical slots (based on
ISACFG utility input to the configuration
database).

device [device name]

Displays the devices and controllers in the system.
Specifying a device name returns information on
that device only.

<envar>

Displays the value of the environment variable
specified.

error

Displays error log information.

memory

Displays the memory module configuration.

pal

Displays the version of OpenVMS and Digital
UNIX PALcode.

version

Displays the version of the console firmware.

A-14 AlphaStation 500 Series User Information

Console Commands
Show Command Examples
Table A-5 lists show command examples and their descriptions.
Table A-5 Show Command Examples
Command

Description

>>>show device

Lists device information,
such as system designation,
drive model, or Ethernet
address.

dka0.0.0.6.0
dka400.4.0.6.0
dva0.0.0.0.1
ewa0.0.0.12.0
pka0.7.0.6.0

DKA0 RZ26L 441A
DKA400 RRD43 3213
DVA0
EWA0 08-00-2B-E2-1C-25
PKA0 SCSI Bus ID 7

Lists system RAM, bank
sizes, starting addresses,
and versions of SROM.

>>>show memory
Memory Size = 288Mb
Bank
02

Size/Sides
032Mb/1

Base Addr
010000000

Speed
Slow SIMM set

256Mb/2

000000000

Fast

mismatch

BCache Size = 4Mb
Tested Memory = 288Mbytes
>>>show *
(Refer to the next section.)

Lists all variables and their
settings.

>>>show boot*
(Refer to the next section.)

Lists all variables beginning
with boot.

AlphaStation 500 Series User Information A-15

Console Commands

Environment Variables
Table A-6 shows selected environment variables and their descriptions. For a complete
list, type show * at the SRM prompt.
Table A-6 Environmental Variables
Variable

Description

auto_action

Sets/shows the console action following an error, halt, or powercycle. The action can be halt, boot, or restart. Halt is the default.

boot_file

Sets/shows the file name to be used when a bootstrap requires a
file name. The default setting is null.

boot_osflags

Sets/shows additional parameters to be passed to system
software. When using OpenVMS software, these parameters are
the system root number and boot flags. The default setting is 0,0.

bootdef_dev

Sets/shows the default device or device list from which the
system will attempt to boot. If the system software is preloaded,
the variable is preset to point to the device containing the
preloaded software. Otherwise, the default value is null.

console

Sets the console output to either serial port or the graphics
controller.

os_type

Sets/shows the specified operating system (NT, OpenVMS, or
Digital UNIX) that nonvolatile random-access memory
(NVRAM) will boot.

pci_parity

Controls PCI parity checking at the PCI bridge chip. Parity
checking is performed if on, disabled if off, and dependent on
the SCSI controller revision.

A-16 AlphaStation 500 Series User Information

Console Commands

Examine Command
The examine command displays the contents of an address you specify. The address can
be a memory location, register, device, or file.
The syntax of the examine command is:
examine [-{b,w,l,q,o,h,d}] [-{physical, virtual, gpr, fpr, ipr}]

[-n <count>] [-s <step>] [<device>:]<address>
where:
Command Option

Description

-b

Byte of data.

-w

Word of data.

-l

Longword of data.

-q

Quadword of data.

-o

Octaword of data.

-h

Hexword of data.

-d

Displays data as a decoded macro instruction.

-physical

References physical address space.

-virtual

References virtual address space.

-gpr

References general-purpose register address space.

-fpr

References floating-point register address space.

-ipr

References internal-processor register address space.

-n <count>

Specifies the number of consecutive locations to examine.

-s <step>

Specifies the address increment as a hexadecimal value. This option
allows you to override the increment that is normally derived from the
data size.

[<device>:]

Selects the device to access.

Specifies the address of the first location to examine within the current
device.

AlphaStation 500 Series User Information A-17

Console Commands
Examine Command Examples
Table A-7 shows examine command examples and their descriptions.
Table A-7 Examine Command Examples
Command

Description

>>>e r0

Examines R0 using a symbolic
address.

gpr: 0 (R0) 0000000000000002
>>>e -g 0

Examines R0 using address space.

gpr: 0 (R0) 0000000000000002
>>>e gpr:0

Examines R0 using device name.

gpr: 0 (R0) 0000000000000002
>>>e pc

Examines the program counter.

PC psr: 0(PC) FFFFFFFF80072954
>>>examine -n 5 r7

Examines R7 and the next five
registers.

gpr: 38 (R7) 0000000000000000
gpr: 40 (R8) 0000000000000000
gpr: 48 (R9) 0000000000000000
gpr: 50 (R10) 000000007FFBF800
gpr: 58 (R11) 000000007FF781A2
gpr: 60 (R12) 0000000000000000
>>>examine ipr:11
ipr: 11 (KSP) FFFFFFFF8228DFD0

A-18 AlphaStation 500 Series User Information

Examine internal processor register
11.

Console Commands

Deposit Command
The deposit command writes data to an address that you specify. The address can be a
memory location, register, device, or file.
The syntax of the deposit command is:
deposit [-{b,w,l,q,o,h}] [-{physical,virtual,gpr,fpr,ipr}]
[-n <count>] [-s <step>] [<device>:]<address> <data>
where:
Command Option

Description

-b

Byte of data.

-w

Word of data.

-l

Longword of data.

-q

Quadword of data.

-o

Octaword of data.

-h

Hexword of data.

-physical

Reference physical address space.

-virtual

Reference virtual address space.

-gpr

Reference general-purpose register address space.

-fpr

Reference floating-point register address space.

-ipr

Reference internal-processor register address space.

-n <count>

Specifies the number of consecutive locations to deposit.

-s <step>

Specifies the address increment as a hexadecimal value. This
option allows you to override the increment that is normally
derived from the data size.

[<device>:]

Selects the device to access. The following devices are
supported:

•
•

pmem: Physical memory
vmem: Virtual memory. All access and protection checking
will occur.

AlphaStation 500 Series User Information A-19

Console Commands
Command Option

Description

An address that specifies the offset within a device into which
data is deposited. The address may also be any legal symbolic
address. Valid symbolic addresses are:
•
•
•
•
•
•
•

<data>

gpr-name. Symbol representing general-purpose register
ipr-name. Symbol representing internal-processor register
PC. Program counter
+. The location immediately following the last location
referenced by an examine or deposit command.
- . The location immediately preceding the last location
referenced by an examine or deposit command.
*. The location last referenced by an examine or
deposit command.
@. The location addressed by the last location referenced
by an examine or deposit command.

The data to be deposited.

Deposit Command Examples
Table A-8 shows deposit command examples and their descriptions.
Table A-8 Deposit Command Examples
Command

Description

>>>d -n 1FF pmem:0 0

Clears the first 512 bytes of physical memory.

>>>d -l -n 3 pmem:1234 5

Deposits 5 into four longwords starting at
physical memory address 1234.

>>>d -n 8 R0 FFFFFFFF

Loads GPRs R0 through R8 with -1.

>>>d -l -n 10 -s 200 pmem:0 8

Deposits 8 in the first longword of the first 17
pages in physical memory.

A-20 AlphaStation 500 Series User Information

B
System Care

Introduction
This appendix describes how to:
•

Clean your system, including the outside enclosure, monitor, mouse, and keyboard

•

Move your system
________________________WARNING __________________________
Make sure you turn off the system and disconnect any external devices
before cleaning any part of your system. When using a moistened cloth for
cleaning, do not allow any excess fluid to leak into the system, keyboard, or
monitor. Wait until the system is completely dry before applying power.
____________________________________________________________

Cleaning Your System Unit
Clean the outside of the system periodically with a soft cloth lightly moistened with a mild
detergent solution. Do not use solvents or abrasive cleaners.

Cleaning Your Monitor
If the monitor screen gets dirty, clean it with a sponge or chamois lightly dampened with a
mild detergent solution. Do not use solvents or abrasive cleaners.

AlphaStation 500 Series User Information B-1

System Care
_______________________ WARNING__________________________
If you use a prepackaged screen cleaner, make sure that it is nonflammable.
Never spray the cleaner directly on the screen. Instead, apply the cleaner to
a clean cloth, and then clean the screen.
___________________________________________________________

Cleaning Your Mouse
If your mouse does not move smoothly or if the pointer jumps across the screen when you
are using the mouse, the ball inside the mouse may need cleaning. To clean the ball,
perform the following steps, as shown in Figure B-1.

c and remove the plate on the bottom.

Turn the mouse over

Remove the rubber ball.

Clean the ball and rollers
mild detergent.

Replace the ball and plate

d with a cotton swab that has been lightly dampened with a
e.

MLO-011122

Figure B-1 Cleaning the Mouse

B-2 AlphaStation 500 Series User Information

System Care

Cleaning Your Keyboard
Your keyboard keys may get dirty with use. Clean them with a clean cloth that has been
lightly dampened with a mild detergent solution.

Moving Your System
Perform the following steps before shipping or moving the system:
1.

Back up all files stored on the hard disk drive.

Turn off the external peripherals, the system, and the monitor.

Disconnect the power cord from the wall outlet and from the back of the system unit.

Disconnect the monitor, keyboard, mouse, and any other cables from the back of the
system unit.

Package the system as described in the section on Packing Your System later in this
appendix.
________________________WARNING __________________________
When packing and moving system components, be aware that some
components (such as the system unit or monitor) may be too heavy for you
to safely lift alone. If you are doubtful about whether you can lift these items
alone, please get assistance.
____________________________________________________________

Packing Your System
If you are moving the system a short distance (for example, from one room to another in
the same building), you do not have to pack it. However, if you are shipping the system or
moving it by vehicle, pack it in the original packing material and containers. If you did not
save the boxes and packing material, use a sturdy carton and cushion the computer well to
avoid damage.

Installing Your System at a New Location
After moving the system to a new location, unpack and install it following the installation
instructions on the installation information.

AlphaStation 500 Series User Information B-3

C
Technical Specifications
Introduction
This appendix describes the following technical characteristics of the AlphaStation 500
Series system:
•

System specifications

•

External system connectors

•

Expansion slot current limitations

•

System current requirements

•

System board jumpers

System Specifications
Tables C-1 through C-4 list the AlphaStation 500 Series system processor features,
dimensions, environmental specifications, and acoustics specifications.
Table C-1 System Specifications
Attributes

Specification

PCI clock

33 MHz

Data I/O

32/64-bit PCI

System board RAM

Expandable up to 1 GB

AlphaStation 500 Series User Information C-1

Technical Specifications
Table C-2 System Dimensions
Dimension

Specification

Width

43 cm (17 inches)

Length

46 cm (18 inches)

Height

13 cm (5 inches)

Weight

14.5 kg (32 lb)

Table C-3 System Environmental Specifications
Attributes

Specification

Operating temperature

10°C to 40°C (50°F to 104°F)
(without removable media)

Storage temperature

−40°C to 66°C (−40F to 151°F)

Operating humidity
(noncondensing)

10% to 90% relative humidity,
(without removable media)
20% to 80% relative humidity
(with removable media)
maximum wet bulb 2°C (36°F)

Storage humidity
(noncondensing)

10% to 90% relative humidity,
maximum wet bulb 65°C (149°F)

Altitude
Operating
Nonoperating

2,438 m (8,000 ft) maximum
4,876 m (16,000 ft) maximum

Shipping vibration

IAW Federal Standard 101, method 5019

Nonoperating shock

30 G, 25 ms halfsine

C-2 AlphaStation 500 Series User Information

Technical Specifications
Table C-4 Acoustics - Declared Values According to ISO 9296 and ISO 7779
Product

PB540-A9

Sound Power Level
LWAd, B

Sound Pressure Level
LpAm, dBA

Idle

Operate

(Operator Position)
Idle
Operate

5.3

5.4

(no disks)
AlphaStation
500
(w/ 2 GB
SCSI disk)

__________________________NOTE ____________________________
Current values for specific configurations are available from Digital
representatives. 1B=10 dBa.
____________________________________________________________

External System Connectors
This section lists the pin assignments for your system's external connectors.
•

Parallel connector: 25-pin D-submini female

•

Serial connectors: 9-pin D-submini male (2)

•

Keyboard and mouse connectors: 6-pin mini-DIN

•

SCSI port, high-density, shielded

AlphaStation 500 Series User Information C-3

Technical Specifications

Parallel Port Connector
The parallel port connector provides an interface to a printer or other parallel devices.
Table C-5 lists pin assignments. An asterisk (*) after a signal name indicates an active low
signal.
Table C-5 Parallel Port Pinouts
DB25 Pin

Signal

Function

STB-R*

Strobe

PRTD0

Printer data bit 0

PRTD1

Printer data bit 1

PRTD2

Printer data bit 2

PRTD3

Printer data bit 3

PRTD4

Printer data bit 4

PRTD5

Printer data bit 5

PRTD6

Printer data bit 6

PRTD7

Printer data bit 7

ACK*

Acknowledge

BUSY

Busy

Paper end

SLCT

Select

AUTOFDXT*

Autofeed

ERR*

Error

INIT*

Initialize printer

SLCTIN*

Select input

GND

Ground

18 to 25

C-4 AlphaStation 500 Series User Information

Technical Specifications

Serial Port Connectors
The serial port connectors consist of two 9-pin D-submini connectors. Table C-6 lists their
pin assignments.
The baud rates supported by the system's serial ports are 300, 1200, 2400, 4800, 9600,
19200, and 38400.
Table C-6 9-Pin Port Pinouts
DB9 Pin

Signal

Function

DCD

Data carrier detect

RXD

Receive data

TXD

Transmit data

DTR

Data terminal ready

GND

Ground

DSR

Data set ready

RTS

Request to send

CTS

Clear to send

Ring indicator

Keyboard and Mouse Connectors
The keyboard and mouse connectors consist of two 6-pin mini-DIN connectors. Table C-7
lists their pin assignments.
Table C-7 Keyboard and Mouse Connector Pinouts
Pin

Signal

Data

Reserved

Ground

+5V DC (fused)

Clock

Reserved

AlphaStation 500 Series User Information C-5

Technical Specifications

SCSI Connectors
There is one SCSI port that exits the AlphaStation 500 Series system unit:
•

A 68-pin high-density, wide port that is terminated at the I/O subsystem module A 68pin high-density, wide port that is terminated at the I/O subsystem module. See Table
C-8 for the SCSI pin assignments.

•

A narrow adapter (68 to 50 pin) is available for use with a CD-ROM .(Part number is
17-04009-01) See Table C-8 for the SCSI pin assignments.

Table C-8 Wide SCSI Pinouts
Connector
Contact
Number

Signal
Name

-DB(12)

-DB(13)

-DB(14)

-DB(15)

-DB(P1)

-DB(0)

-DB(1)

-DB(2)

GROUND

-DB(3)

GROUND

-DB(4)

GROUND

-DB(5)

GROUND

-DB(6)

GROUND

-DB(7)

GROUND

-DB(P)

GROUND

Cable
Conductor
Number

Signal Name

Connector
Contact
Number

GROUND

GROUND
GROUND

GROUND

TERMPWR

RESERVED

GROUND

-ATN

C-6 AlphaStation 500 Series User Information

Technical Specifications
Table C-8 Wide SCSI Pinouts (Continued)
Connector
Contact
Number

Signal Name

GROUND

-BSY

-ACK

-RST

-MSG

-SEL

Cable
Conductor
Number

Signal Name

Connect
or
Contact
Number

GROUND

GROUND
GROUND
GROUND
GROUND

-C/D

GROUND

-REQ

GROUND

-I/O

GROUND

-DB(8)

GROUND

-DB(9)

GROUND

-DB(10)

GROUND

-DB(11)

__________________________ Note _____________________________
In Table C-9, please note that narrow is seen @ CD-ROM only.
____________________________________________________________
Table C-9 Narrow SCSI Pinouts
Connector
Contact
Number

Signal Name

-DB(0)

-DB(1)

-DB(2)

-DB(3)

Cable
Conductor
Number

Signal Name

Connect
or
Contact
Number

GROUND

-DB(4)

GROUND

-DB(5)

GROUND

-DB(6)

AlphaStation 500 Series User Information C-7

Technical Specifications
Table C-9 Narrow SCSI Pinouts (Continued)
Cable
Conductor
Number

Connector
Contact
Number

Signal Name

Connect
or
Contact
Number

GROUND

-DB(7)

GROUND

-DB(P)

GROUND

OPEN

TERMPWR

RESERVED

GROUND

-ATN

GROUND

-BSY

GROUND

-ACK

GROUND

-RST

GROUND

-MSG

GROUND

-SEL

GROUND

-C/D

GROUND

-REQ

GROUND

-I/O

Expansion Slots
The system board contains one 64-bit PCI (full length), three 32-bit PCI (one full length,
two half length). The maximum available +5V DC allowable to any expansion slot
depends on the following parameters:
•

Power supply capacity

•

The +5V DC requirements of the system board

•

The +5V DC requirements of the peripherals

•

The power demands of all other slots in use and of the system board

C-8 AlphaStation 500 Series User Information

Technical Specifications

Power Supply and Input Power Requirements
The 320-watt power supply provides four DC voltages: +12V, -12V, +5V, and +3.43V DC.
These voltages are used by the various components within the system and are listed in
Table C-10
Table C-10 Output Power Requirements
DC Outputs

Maximum Load

Maximum Power

+3.4V

35 amps

119 W

+5.0V

45 amps

225 W

+12.0V

14 amps

168 W

-12.0V

0.5 amps

Maximum Watts

260 W

__________________________ HINT _____________________________
The maximum power from any combination of +3.43V and +5.0V does not
exceed 260 W.
____________________________________________________________

The AlphaStation 500 Series system has the rated voltage range described in Table C-11
Table C-11 Input Power Requirements
Rated Voltage Range

Rated
Input Current

Operating Frequency
Range

88V AC–264V AC

8–4 amps

47 Hz–63 Hz

AlphaStation 500 Series User Information C-9

Technical Specifications

System Board Jumper Locations
Jumper pins allow you to set specific system parameters. Set them by changing the pin
location of jumper blocks. A jumper block is a small plastic-encased conductor (shorting
plug) that slips over the pins. To change a jumper setting, remove the jumper from its
current location with your fingers or small needlenose pliers. Place the jumper over the
two pins designated for the desired setting. Press the jumper evenly onto the pins. Be
careful not to bend the pins.
Figure C-1 shows the locations of the system board jumper pins. Table C-12 lists the
system board jumpers and factory-default settings.
________________________ CAUTION __________________________
Do not touch any electronic component unless you are safely grounded. Wear a
grounded wrist strap or touch an exposed metal part of the system unit chassis.
A static discharge from your fingers can result in permanent damage to
electronic components
___________________________________________________________

C-10 AlphaStation 500 Series User Information

Technical Specifications

J35
J33

J20
J19
J17
J16
J15
J14
J13
J12
J11

J18
J9
J10

MA00983

Figure C-1 System Board Jumper Locations

AlphaStation 500 Series User Information C-11

Technical Specifications
Table C-12 System Board Jumpers
Jumper

Pins 1 to 2

Pins 2 to 3

Function

Reset*

Halt

Changes front
push button
function

Secure Console Enabled

Secure Console
Disabled*

Secure console

J10

Alternate Console
Enabled

Primary
Console
Enabled*

Alternate console

J18

FROM Write Protect

Write Enabled*

Controls 12 volts
for the FROM

J2, J20, J33, J35

Ground reference
jumpers for
debug

(*) = Default position.

SROM Selection Jumpers
SROM jumpers are used for debug purposes by manufacturing and field service. There are
eight loadable images in the SROM device. The SROM selection jumpers select which
output from the SROM drives the EV5 CPU. Figure C-1 show the SROM selection jumper
locations. Table C-13 lists the encoding for the SROM selection jumpers. Only one jumper
may be installed at any given moment.
Table C-13 SROM Selection Jumpers
Jumper

SROM Bit

Function

J11

Power Up (default)

J12

Mini-Console

J13

Floppy loader

J14

MFG Memtest

J15

RESERVED

J16

RESERVED

J17

MCHK Mini-Console

J19

Noinit Mini-Console

C-12 AlphaStation 500 Series User Information

Technical Specifications

Ethernet Interface
The AlphaStation 500 Series system uses a Media adapter unit (MAU) card to support
Ethernet connections. This module provides for ThinWire, or twisted-pair Ethernet
operation. Refer to Figure 3-3.
Software Switches
Software switches which must be set properly from the console mode. To determine the
system setup, type:
show ewa0
at the >>> prompt. To set the proper mode, type:
set ewa0 x
where x is equal to either twisted-pair operation (which looks like phone connector) or
BNC which is the ThinWire (round coaxial connector).
Selecting the ThickWire/ThinWire or Twisted Pair Ports
Open VMS or Digital UNIX AlphaStation 500 series systems must be told to use the
appropriate Ethernet port.
Change the port types by using the following SRM console commands:
>>> set ewa0_mode AUI

(for the ThickWire and ThinWire port)

>>> set ewa0_mode twisted

(for the ThickWire and ThinWire port)

After changeing the port, type >>> init or power cycle the machine. The Windows NT
operating system auto-senses which network port is connected.

AlphaStation 500 Series User Information C-13

D
Device Mapping
Introduction
This appendix lists system device mapping information, including:
•

I/O address map

•

Interrupt map

I/O Address Map
Table D-1 presents information on the I/O address map.
Table D-1 I/O Address Map
ISA I/O
Addresses

Devices

0000-02F7

Reserved

02F8-02FF

Serial port 2

03BC-03BE

Parallel port

03BF-03EF

Reserved

03F0-03F7

Diskette drive

03F8-03FF

Serial port 1

0400-07FF

Reserved

AlphaStation 500 Series User Information D-1

Device Mapping

Interrupt Map
The (Interrupt Request register) IRQ assignments for the AlphaStation 500 Series are
shown in Table D-2; the EISA interrupt assignments are shown in Table D-2. This
information is useful when adding or reconfiguring options on your system. Avoid
conflicts when assigning IRQs by associating one IRQ to one source. PCI interrupt levels
are set either by the operating system (as in Windows NT) or by the SRM console (as in
Digital UNIX and OpenVMS).

D-2 AlphaStation 500 Series User Information

Device Mapping

Table D-2 Main Interrupt Logic IRQ Pin Assignments
Output

IRQ5

Interrupt

Usage
(Reference Designator)

EV5
IRQ<1>

0
1
2
3

Int A
Int B
Int C
Int D

I/O Riser Slot 2 – 32-bit
J-4

4
5
6
7

Int A
Int B
Int C
Int D

I/O Riser Slot 1 – 32-bit
J3

8
9
10
11

Int A
Int B
Int C
Int D

I/O Riser Slot 0 – 64-bit
J-1

PCI Slot 11

PCI Slot 12

PCI Slot 7

SCSI Controller, PCI Slot 9

Ethernet Controller, PCI Slot 6

15–14

Reserved

16
17
18

Int A
Int B
Int C
Int D

I/O Riser Slot 3 – 32-bit
J-5
PCI Slot 8

19
23–20

Interrupt Jumpers, See Table D-4.

27-24

•

30-28

Reserved

EISA_INT

Module REV

8259 INT output

Note: All unmasked IRQ inputs have equal priority.

5 All unmasked IRQ inputs have equal priority.

AlphaStation 500 Series User Information D-3

Device Mapping
Table D-3 EISA Interrupt Assignments
Priority

Label

Controller

Int/External

Interrupt Source

IRQ 0

Internal

Internal timer 1 counter 0 out

IRQ 1

External

Keyboard

3-10

IRQ 2

External

Interrupt from controller 2

Table D-4 Interrupt Jumpers
IRQ

JUMPERS

Alternate Console

Secure Console

Reserved

D-4 AlphaStation 500 Series User Information

E
Updating System Firmware
Introduction
This appendix explains how to use the firmware update utility. It is the user’s
responsibility to update the system firmware.

System Firmware
The AlphaStation 500 Series system contains four flashROMs, two with ARC console
firmware (for the Windows NT operating system) and two with SRM console firmware
(for the Digital UNIX and OpenVMS operating systems). Refer to the Alpha Systems
Firmware Update documentation that is contained on the Firmware Update CD for
compatible firmware and operating system versions.

Update Utility
Use the update utility to update your ARC and SRM firmware. See the section on Using
the Flash Update Utility later in this appendix for additional information. The update
utility contains three images: the update utility itself, the SRM image, and the ARC image.

Flash Enable Jumper
Before you can update your system firmware, the flashROM enable jumper (J18) must be
in the write-enabled position. Refer to the section on System Board Jumpers in Appendix
C and to Figure C-1 for additional information.

Using the Flash Update Utility
To update the firmware:
1.

Insert the CD-ROM with the updated firmware.

Reboot the system.

AlphaStation 500 Series User Information E-1

Updating System Firmware
You should see a display similar to the following while the update utility is loading and
executing:
>>>b -fi M2_0_upd.mop ewa0
(boot ewa0.0.0.6.0 -file M2_0_upd.mop -flags 0)

Trying MOP boot........................

Network load complete.
Host name: ALCOR3
Host address: aa-00-04-00-36-77

bootstrap code read in
base = 136000, image_start = 0, image_bytes = 11ce00
initializing HWRPB at 2000
initializing page table at 128000
initializing machine state
setting affinity to the primary CPU
jumping to bootstrap code
ff.fe.fd.fc.fb.fa.f9.f8.f7.f6.f5.
ef.ee.ed.ec.eb.ea.e9.f4.e8.e7.e5.e4.
Digital AlphaStation 500 5/266 Console V1.0-1
built on Nov 8 1995 at 16:45:12
Maverick startup
>>>Execute Update Sequence
Update Script Complete
(boot pmem:180000 -flags 0)
bootstrap code read in
base = 180000, image_start = 0, image_bytes = 800000
initializing HWRPB at 2000
initializing page table at 728000
initializing machine state
setting affinity to the primary CPU

E-2 AlphaStation 500 Series User Information

Updating System Firmware
jumping to bootstrap code
*** Firmware Update

***

*** System Type: Maverick ***
Update
Verify
List
Show
Dump
?
Apu->

To update the firmware, type update. The following information will be displayed
as the firmware updates. The actual information may change between versions.

Apu-> update
image_hdr = 15740
try to find ROM images
image_desc = 15748
Header Image at 0x15c00
Version = 4.43
Vendor

= DEC

Product

= MAVERICK

Firmware

= MAVERICK_ARC

Length

= 0x3bc1d

strncmp 0
Rom Set

= 1 (Roms 2,3)

APU-I VERIFY LOADED ROM IMAGE
0x3bc5d
Loaded Image Exp Check 0xa Calc Check 0xa
APU-I VERIFY LOADED ROM IMAGE DONE
Rom 2 Manufacturer = Intel (0x89)

28F020

(0xbd) 256K x 8

Rom 3 Manufacturer = Intel (0x89)

28F020

(0xbd) 256K x 8

image_hdr = 15740

AlphaStation 500 Series User Information E-3

Updating System Firmware
try to find ROM images
image_desc = 15748
image_desc = 15758
Header Image at 0x51a00
Version

= v1_0-1

Vendor

= DEC

Product

= MAVERICK

Firmware

= MAVERICK_SRM

Length

= 0x6e200

strncmp 0
Rom Set

= 0 (Roms 0,1)

APU-I VERIFY LOADED ROM IMAGE
0x6e240
Loaded Image Exp Check 0x7d Calc Check 0x7d
APU-I VERIFY LOADED ROM IMAGE DONE
Rom 0 Manufacturer = Intel (0x89)

28F020

(0xbd) 256K x 8

Rom 1 Manufacturer = Intel (0x89)

28F020

(0xbd) 256K x 8

image_hdr = 15740
try to find ROM images
image_desc = 15748
image_desc = 15758
Header Image at 0x51a00
Version

= v1_0-1

Vendor

= DEC

Product

= MAVERICK

Firmware

= MAVERICK_SRM

Length

= 0x6e200

strncmp 0
Rom Set

= 0 (Roms 0,1)

APU-I VERIFY LOADED ROM IMAGE
0x6e240
Loaded Image Exp Check 0x7d Calc Check 0x7d

E-4 AlphaStation 500 Series User Information

Updating System Firmware
APU-I VERIFY LOADED ROM IMAGE DONE
APU-I *** ROMS 0,1 CONTENTS WILL BE DESTROYED ***
APU-I ARE YOU READY TO PROGRAM DEVICE ? (Y/N ) y
Rom 0 Manufacturer = Intel (0x89)

28F020

(0xbd) 256K x 8

Rom 1 Manufacturer = Intel (0x89)

28F020

(0xbd) 256K x 8

APU-I ROM SET NOT ERASED
APU-I PRECHARGING DEVICE
0x80000
APU-I ERASING ROM DEVICE
0x80000
APU-I PROGRAMMING DEVICE
0x6e240
APU-I ROM 0 VERIFYING ROM IMAGE
0x6e240
APU-I PROGRAMMING COMPLETED
0x6e240
0x6e240
SRM Rom Update Successful
image_hdr = 15740
try to find ROM images
image_desc = 15748
Header Image at 0x15c00
Version

= 4.43

Vendor

= DEC

Product

= MAVERICK

Firmware

= MAVERICK_ARC

Length

= 0x3bc1d

strncmp 0
Rom Set

= 1 (Roms 2,3)

APU-I VERIFY LOADED ROM IMAGE
0x3bc5d
Loaded Image Exp Check 0x1a Calc Check 0x1a

AlphaStation 500 Series User Information E-5

Updating System Firmware
APU-I VERIFY LOADED ROM IMAGE DONE
Rom 2 Manufacturer = Intel (0x89)

28F020

(0xbd) 256K x 8

Rom 3 Manufacturer = Intel (0x89)

28F020

(0xbd) 256K x 8

APU-I ROM SET NOT ERASED
APU-I PRECHARGING DEVICE
0x80000
APU-I ERASING ROM DEVICE
0x80000
APU-I PROGRAMMING DEVICE
0x3bc5d
APU-I ROM 1 VERIFYING ROM IMAGE
0x3bc5d
APU-I PROGRAMMING COMPLETED
0x3bc5d
0x3bc5d
ARC Rom Update Successfull
Apu->

Use the verify SRM command to verify the integrity of the SRM firmware.

Apu-> verify
ARC Rom Verify Successful
SRM Rom Verify Successful

To exit the update utility, type quit.

Apu->quit

E-6 AlphaStation 500 Series User Information

F
Starting an Operating System
Installation
Introduction
This appendix provides the information you need to begin an operating system installation.
After you have started an installation, you can complete it by following on-screen
instructions and referring to the appropriate operating system documentation.
Using the table below, first locate the operating system you want to install and refer to the
appropriate table number.
If you want to install:

Go to Table:

Install Window NT Workstation on a
properly partitioned and formatted disk.

Table F-1

Set up partitions for a Windows NT
Workstation installation

Table F-2

Digital UNIX

Table F-3

OpenVMS

Table F-4

AlphaStation 500 Series User Information F-1

Starting an Operating System Installation
________________________ CAUTION __________________________
If you boot from a Digital UNIX or Open VMS disk and also occasionally boot
Microsoft Windows NT Workstation from another disk, use caution when you
run the Windows NT Disk Administrator. When the Disk Administrator detects
additional disks, it updates the system configuration. The Disk Administrator
prompts you for permission to write a signature to the additional disks. Writing
the signature to a Digital UNIX or Open VMS disk destroys the boot block on
that disk and makes the operating system on that disk no longer bootable. Select
NO when you are asked if you want to write a signature to your Digital UNIX or
Open VMS disks.
___________________________________________________________

Starting a Windows NT Workstation Installation
Digital partitions and formats disk 0 on the first SCSI controller in non-RAID Windows
NT Workstation systems. The partitions are set up as follows:
•

Partition 1 (typically, the “C” drive) is the size of the disk less 10 MB and formatted
FAT. Normally, you select “convert to NTFS” during the Windows NT installation.

•

Partition 2 (typically the “D” drive) is 10 MB, formatted FAT, and identified as the
system partition.

Refer to Table F-1 for the steps to start installing Windows NT Workstation on a properly
partitioned and formatted disk.
_________________________ NOTE____________________________
The ARC console must be installed and running in order to perform a Windows
NT installation. If the SRM console is running, refer to Appendix E, Updating
System Firmware, for the instructions to load the ARC firmware.
___________________________________________________________

F-2 AlphaStation 500 Series User Information

Starting an Operating System Installation
Table F-1 Starting a Windows NT Workstation Installation
Step

Action

Result

Insert the Microsoft Windows
NT Workstation CD-ROM into
the CD drive.

CD-ROM drive is ready.

From the ARC console boot
menu, select

Supplementary menu
displays.

Supplementary menu...
3

Select
Install Windows NT
from CD-ROM.

Windows NT setup
procedure starts. Follow
the on-screen instructions.
For more information,
refer to the Microsoft
Windows NT Workstation
System Guide.

AlphaStation 500 Series User Information F-3

Starting an Operating System Installation
If you are installing the operating system on a disk that has not been partitioned and
formatted, follow the procedure in Table F-2.
Table F-2 Setting Up Partitions for a Windows NT Workstation Installation
Step

Action

Result

Insert the Microsoft
Windows NT Workstation
CD-ROM into the CD
drive.

CD-ROM drive is ready.

From the ARC console,
select

You are prompted for the program name.
ARCINST, the ARC installation program,
provides a means to partition and format the
disk for NT prior to installing Windows NT.

Run a Program
3

At the prompt, type
cd:\alpha\arcinst

Choose
Configure
Partitions

Choose
Create Partition

If you encounter a “Pathname is not defined”
error, go to the ARC console Setup menu an
select Set the environment
variables. Select CD-ROM, then enter
the SCSI bus number and ID of the CD-ROM
drive. Next, select Set the default
configuration and follow the steps.
Save the changes and repeat step 4.
Partition menu displays choices that allow
you to create, delete, or make an existing
partition into a system partition.
A list of available target devices displays.
SCSI bus 0, Identifier 0, Disk
0 (scsii(0)disk(0)rdisk(0))
Identifier is the ID of the SCSI device, drive 0
in this case.

F-4 AlphaStation 500 Series User Information

Starting an Operating System Installation

Starting a Digital UNIX Installation
To start a Digital UNIX installation, refer to Table F-3.
Table F-3 Starting a Digital UNIX Installation
Action

Result

1. If the SRM console is running, go
to Step 4.
If the ARC console is running, from
the Boot menu, select the
Supplementary menu...;
then select Set up the
system.... From the Setup
menu, select Switch to
OpenVMS or Digital UNIX
console. Select Switch to
Digital UNIX.

Selecting Switch to Digital UNIX
will cause the system to run the SRM
console after the next power cycle or reset
button.

2. Cycle the system's power.

Cycling power after selecting the Digital
UNIX or OpenVMS console results in the
system restarting with the SRM console
running.

3. At the SRM prompt (>>>), type:

Clears the boot_osflags variable.

set boot_osflags
4. At the SRM prompt (>>>), type:
set auto_action halt

Halts the system at the console prompt each
time the system is turned on, crashes, or
when the reset button is pushed.

5. Insert the Digital UNIX for
AXP™ Systems CD-ROM into the
CD drive.

The CD-ROM drawer closes.

6. At the SRM prompt (>>>), type:

List of devices displays:

show dev
7. From the SRM console, boot the
Digital UNIX CD-ROM. At the
SRM
prompt (>>>), type:

dka0.0.0.6.0
dka500.4.0.6.0
dva0.0.0.0.1

DKA0
DKA500
DVA0

RZ26L
RRD43

441A
3213

Installation information is displayed and you
are prompted to select an option. For more
information, refer to the Digital UNIX
Installation Guide.

boot dka500

AlphaStation 500 Series User Information F-5

Starting an Operating System Installation

Starting an OpenVMS Installation
To start an OpenVMS installation, follow the steps in Table F-4.
Table F-4 Starting an Open VMS Installation
Action

Result

1. If the SRM console is running, go
to Step 4.

Selecting Switch to OpenVMS causes the
system to run the SRM console after the next
power-cycle.

If the ARC console is running from
the Boot menu, select the
Supplementary menu...;then
select Set up the
system....
From the Setup menu, select
Switch to OpenVMS or
Digital UNIX console.
Select Switch to OpenVMS.
2. Cycle the system's power.

Cycling power after selecting the Digital UNIX
or OpenVMS console results in the system
restarting with the SRM console running.

3. Insert the OpenVMS CD-ROM
into the CD drive.

CD-ROM drawer closes.

4. At the SRM prompt (>>>), type:
show dev

List of devices displays:

5. From the SRM console, boot the
OpenVMS CD-ROM. At the SRM
prompt (>>>), type:

Installation information is displayed and you are
prompted to select an option. For more
information, refer to the OpenVMS Installation
Guide.

boot -flags 0,0 dka500

F-6 AlphaStation 500 Series User Information

dka0.0.0.6.0
DKA0
RZ26L
dka500.4.0.6.0 DKA500 RRD43
dva0.0.0.0.1
DVA0

441A
3213

G
Sound Card Overview
Introduction
This appendix describes the Digital AlphaStation 500 Series system sound card. The card
is installed in a dedicated slot in the motherboard.

Module Layout
Figure G-1 and Table G-1 describe the connectors and jumpers for the Digital
AlphaStation 500 Series system sound card.
3
4
5
6

2
1

MLO-009865

Figure G-1 Card Connectors and Jumpers

AlphaStation 500 Series User Information G-1

Sound Card Overview
Table G-1 Card Connector and Jumpers
Figure
Legend

Component

Function

Speaker output

CD Audio

Headphone jack

LINE OUT jack

Microphone jack

LINE IN

Not used

Sound card configuration jumpers

Module Connectors
There are three connectors on the module (J8 is not used). Since none is keyed, look for a
pin 1 designation on both the cable connector and the module connector.

The speaker connector (J5 SPKR) works correctly, even if the connector is put on upside
down. Speaker connector pinouts are listed in Table G-2 below:

Table G-2 Speaker Connector Pinouts
Pin

Signal

4-32 Ohm speaker

Unconnected

Ground

Use the CD connector to route CD audio from a CD-ROM drive to the audio card. The
CD connector (J6 CD) left and right channels are reversed if you put the connector on
upside down. Pinouts for the CD connector are listed in Table G-3:

G-2 AlphaStation 500 Series User Information

Sound Card Overview
Table G-3 CD Connector Pinouts
Pin

Signal

Left channel

Ground

Right channel

Module Jumpers
The sound card uses jumpers located at J9 to select the motherboard sound routing and to
set the card’s bus address.
The TCE (timer-counter enable) jumper determines whether or not sounds generated on
the motherboard go to the speaker. The TCE jumper is factory-set to allow beeps to go to
the speaker (jumper in), as listed in Table G-4 below:

Table G-4 TCE Jumper
Pin

Signal

TCE IN J9 (1-4)

Motherboard beeps to speaker (D).

TCE OUT

Motherboard beeps are ignored.

(D) = Factory default
The SW1 and SW2 jumpers determine the base address of the audio module. These are
factory-set (both jumpers in) and should only be changed when the address conflicts with
another option’s address. See Table G-5.

Table G-5 SW1 and SW2 Jumpers Audio Module Base Address
SW1 J9(2-5)

SW2 J9(3-6)

Base Address

OUT

x604

OUT

xF40

OUT

xE80

x530

AlphaStation 500 Series User Information G-3

Sound Card Overview

External Connection Jacks
The rear-panel jacks are standard 3.5-mm stereo jacks.
Plugging a headphone into the headphone jack disables the speaker. You can plug a pair
of speakers into the headphone jack. (Amplified speakers are recommended.)
The microphone jack is for an electret microphone (2.2 Kohm to 2.5V).
You may use line-in and line-out jacks to connect receivers, amplifiers, or other audio
equipment.

Software
Before applications can use your sound card, the card must be known to your operating
system. Each operating system has a unique way of learning about the card. The
following section explain how to get this process underway for each operating system.

Microsoft Windows NT Workstation Operating System
To make the sound card available to Windows NT application, you must install and set up
the driver, as the following steps describe:
1.

From the Control Panel, select Drivers.

Click Add, and choose Windows Sound System from the list of drivers. Then
click OK. (If the driver is not present on the system disk, you may be prompted to
load Windows NT distribution media.)

The Windows Sound System Driver menu appears. Select Interrupt 7(IRQ7),
the default DMA channel, and the default I/O address.

Digital UNIX Operating System
The Digital UNIX operating system supports the sound card through Multimedia Services
for Digital UNIX, which is normally preloaded at the manufacturing site. The
manufacturing site also loads the sound card configuration information into the SRM
console configuration database. The information in the database is passed onto the
operating system.

G-4 AlphaStation 500 Series User Information

Sound Card Overview
Use the following command to verify that the sound card is loaded into the configuration
database:
>>>isacfg -all
You will know the sound card is loaded if you see a record with the handle “PCXBJ.”

Refer to the ISACFG section of Appendix A for more information.

Use the following command when you are logged in as “root” to verify that the
multimedia services are installed:
#setld -I |grep MME

installed
Look for the following response and verify that the word installed is present:
MMExxxxxx

installed

xxx xxx Audio Card Driver

Refer to the Multimedia Services for Digital UNIX AXP Installation Guide for
more information.
Digital’s multimedia application programming interface (API), which is included with the
Multimedia Services for Digital UNIX, is based on Microsoft’s Video for Windows
interface. This provides developers with a common API and supports for the same audio
and video file formats as Video for Windows does.

OpenVMS Operating System
The OpenVMS operating system contains a sound driver that supports the sound card.
Configuration information is stored in the SRM console configuration database.
Usually, the manufacturing site loads the sound configuration information into the SRM
console configuration database. The information in the database is passed onto the
operating system.
Use the following command to verify that the sound card is loaded into the configuration
database:
>>>isacfg -all
You will know the sound card is loaded if you see a record with the handle “PCXBJ.”

Refer to the ISACFG section of Appendix A for more information.

AlphaStation 500 Series User Information G-5

H
Equipment Log
Introduction
With the equipment log, you can gather information that you may need if problems occur
with your system and you need to call Digital for assistance.
Use the equipment log to record information about your system hardware and software
components. Update the equipment log when you add options.

Equipment Log
The log consists of five tables, which you can use to record the following information:
•

Your system's hardware components (Table H-1

•

Your SCSI device address settings (Table H-2)

•

Your system's system hardware configuration (Table H-3)

•

The operating system or application software installed on your AlphaStation 500
Series system (Table H-4)

•

Additional components (Table H-5)

AlphaStation 500 Series User Information H–1

Equipment Log
Table H-1 Hardware Components
Component

Vendor/
Type/Size

Model
Number

System unit

AlphaStation

500 Series

Serial
Number

Date
Installed

System unit key
number
Monitor
Keyboard
Mouse
Installed diskette
drive
Additional storage
device 1
Additional storage
device 2
Additional storage
device 3
Additional storage
device 4
Additional storage
device 5

_________________________ NOTE____________________________
See the regulatory label on the rear bulkhead for such information as the serial
number.
___________________________________________________________
Table H-2 SCSI Addresses
Device

Address

H–2 AlphaStation 500 Series User Information

Device

Address

Equipment Log
Table H-3 Hardware Configuration
Component

AlphaStation 500 Series System Specifics

CPU speed and model
Firmware version
Memory size
Video module

Table H-4 Installed Software
Operating System or
Application Software

Version
Number

License Number

Date
Installed

Table H-5 Additional Component Information
Component

Vendor

Model
Number

Serial
Number

Date
Installed

AlphaStation 500 Series User Information H–3

Index
—A—
abbreviations used in this guide, xv
AC power cord
criteria met, 2-3
identifying, 2-3
acoustics specifications, C-3
additional information resources, xvii
airflow, 2-4
AlphaStation 500 Series system
before you start the system, 2-2
connecting cables and the power cord, 2-6
connecting system components, 2-5
cooling, 2-4
description, 1-1
identifying the correct AC power cord, 2-3
installing, 2-4
preloaded operating system software (described), 2-8
preloaded operating system software (listed), 2-8
security, 2-10
starting, 2-7
switching console firmware, 2-9
turning off, 2-9
ARC console, A-1
ARC console commands
Add a boot selection, A-5
Boot, A-7
Boot an alternate operating system, A-7
Check boot selections, A-6
Display hardware configuration, A-2
Install Windows NT from CD-ROM, A-8

Set default configuration, A-2, A-3
Setup autoboot command, A-7
Switch to OpenVMS or Digital UNIX
console, A-8
audience, xiii
Audio module
overview, G-1

—C—
cables
connecting, 2-6
cleaning
keyboard, B-3
monitor, B-1
mouse, B-2
system unit, B-1
Connecting a Printer or Other Parallel Device, 3-36
Connecting an External SCSI Option, 3-36
connecting cables and the power cord, 2-6
connecting system components, 2-5
connectors
rear panel, 1-4
console firmware
switching, 2-9
console subsystems, A-1
controls and indicators, 1-3
conventions used in this guide, xiv
cooling the system, 2-4

AlphaStation 500 Series User Information

Index-1

Index

—D—
device mapping
I/O address map, D-1
interrupt map
main interrupt logic, D-2
DIMM
installing, 3-10
DIMM Bank
configuration, 3-9
DIMMs
installing, 3-9
removing, 3-9

—E—
environmental specifications (system unit), C-2
equipment log
additional components, H–3
description, H–1
hardware configuration, H–3
SCSI device address settings, H–2
software installed, H–3
error codes, 4-8, 4-9
expansion options
installing a module
illustration, 3-33
procedure, 3-32
PCI bus, 3-31
external drive bay devices
CD-ROM restrictions, 3-13
connecting the power and SCSI cables, 3-17
description, 3-11
SCSI addresses, 3-11
external system connector pin assignments
keyboard and mouse, C-5
parallel port, C-4
SCSI, C-6
serial ports, C-5

—F—
Fan and LED Cable Connections
illustration, 3-23
firmware update utility, E-1
flash enable jumper, E-1
flash update utility, E-1

Index-2 AlphaStation 500 Series User Information

—H—
Halt/Reset button, 1-3
hardware components
front panel controls, indicators, and drive bay
locations, 1-3
keyboard, 1-6
rear panel connectors, 1-4
system unit, 1-2

—I—
installing DIMMs, 3-9
installing system options
adding a DIMM, 3-9
installing DIMMs, 3-9
internal drive bay devices, 3-13
PCI expansion options, 3-31
removing the top cover and left side panel, 3-2
replacing the top cover and left side panel, 3-34
system board components, 3-6
system memory, 3-8
system unit components, 3-4
wearing a grounded wrist strap, 3-1
installing the system, 2-4
internal drive bay devices
installing, 3-13
removing a device from the drive assembly
procedure, 3-26, 3-27
removing the floppy drive tray assembly
procedure, 3-24
replacing the drive assembly in the system
unit, 3-30
Interrupt Jumpers, D-4

—J—
jumpers
system board, C-10

—K—
keyboard
adjusting the angle, 1-6
cleaning, B-3
key groups and functions, 1-7
layout, 1-6

Index
no response to commands, 4-5
keyboard connector pinouts, C-5

—L—
left side panel
removing, 3-2
replacing, 3-34

—M—
MAU Cable Configuration
illustration, 3-22
Memory Configuration Rules
DIMMs, 3-8
monitor
cleaning, B-1
distorted display, 4-7
power indicator not on, 4-7
mouse
cleaning, B-2
no response to commands, 4-5
mouse connector pinouts, C-5
moving the system, B-3

—N—
network connection, 2-7

—O—
operating system installation
DEC UNIX, F-5
OpenVMS, F-6
organization of this guide, xiii

—P—
parallel port connector pinouts, C-4
PCI option slots
rear of enclosure
illustration, 3-31
plastic filler panel
caution relative to overheating, 2-4
posture and work habits
precautions, 2-10
warning, 2-12

Power Cable Configuration
illustration, 3-21
power cord
connecting, 2-6
power requirements
input, C-9
output, C-9
preloaded operating system software
described, 2-8
listed, 2-8
processor features, C-1

—S—
SCSI adapters, 3-13
SCSI pinouts
narrow, C-6
wide, C-6
security
lock, 2-10
passwords, 2-10
serial port connector pinouts, C-5
shutdown commands, 2-10
special notices used in this guide, xvii
SRM console
conventions, A-9
description, A-8
shortcut keys, A-10
SRM console commands
boot
examples, A-12
syntax, A-11
deposit
examples, A-20
syntax, A-19
environment variables
auto_action, A-16
boot_file, A-16
boot_osflags, A-16
bootdef_dev, A-16
console, A-16
os_type, A-16
pci_parity, A-16
examine
examples, A-18
syntax, A-17
set

AlphaStation 500 Series User Information

Index-3

Index
examples, A-14
syntax, A-13
show
examples, A-15
syntax, A-14
status codes, 4-8
switching console firmware, 2-9
system
starting, 2-7
turning off, 2-9
system board jumpers
description, C-10
system care
cleaning the keyboard, B-3
cleaning the monitor, B-1
cleaning the mouse, B-2
cleaning the system unit, B-1
installing the system at a new location, B-3
moving the system, B-3
packing the system, B-3
system components
connecting, 2-5
system cooling, 2-4
system firmware
description, E-1
flash enable jumper, E-1
flash update utility, E-1
system memory
cache, 3-8
system unit
description, 1-2
dimensions, C-2

keyboard and mouse, C-5
parallel port, C-4
SCSI, C-6
serial port, C-5
system board jumpers
description, C-10
system current requirements, C-9
system specifications
acoustics specifications, C-3
dimensions, C-2
environmental specifications, C-2
processor features, C-1
troubleshooting
diskette drive cannot read or write, 4-6
equipment log, 4-10
error codes, 4-8
hard drive cannot read or write, 4-6
initial, 4-1
monitor distorted, 4-7
monitor power indicator not on, 4-7
no response to keyboard commands, 4-5
no response to mouse commands, 4-5
no screen display, 4-2
power indicator not on, 4-2
status codes, 4-8
system does not boot, 4-3
target boot device not listed, 4-4
turning off the system, 2-9

—V—
voltage
select switch, 2-5

—T—
technical specifications
expansion slot current limitations, C-8
external system connectors

Index-4 AlphaStation 500 Series User Information

—W—
wide-to-narrow SCSI adapters, 3-13