Alpha Microsystems AM-6060 User manual

DSM-00214-00
AM-6060
Computer Owner's
Manual
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© 1998 ALPHA MICROSYSTEMS
FIRST EDITION: April 1998
To re-order this document, request part number DSO-00214-00
FCC Notice
This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class A digital device, pursuant to Part 15 of the FCC
Rules. These limits are designed to provide reasonable protection against harmful interference when the equipment is operated in a
commercial environment. This equipment generates, uses and can radiate radio frequency energy and, if not installed and used in
accordance with the instruction manual, may cause harmful interference to radio communications. Operation of this equipment in a
residential area is likely to cause harmful interference in which case the user will be required to correct the interference at his own
expense.
Canadian Department of Communications Compliance Statement
This equipment does not exceed Class A limits per radio noise emissions for digital apparatus set out in the Radio Interference
Regulations of the Canadian Department of Communications. Operation in a residential area may cause unacceptable interference
to radio and TV reception requiring the owner or operator to take whatever steps are necessary to correct the interference.
Avis de Conformité aux Normes du Ministère des Communications du Canada
Cet équipment ne deapsse pas les limits de Classe A d'émission de bruits radioélectriques pour les appareils numeriques tels que
prescrites par le Règlement sur le brouillage radioélectrique établi par le ministère des Communications du Canada. L'exploitation
faite en milleu résidential peut entrainer le brouillage des réceptions radio et tele, ce qui obligerait le propriétaire ou l'opératour à
pendre les dispositions nécessaires pour en éliminer les causes.
Battery Warning
CAUTION: Danger of explosion if battery is incorrectly replaced. Replace only with the same or equivalent type recommended by
the manufacturer. Discard used batteries according to the manufacturer's instructions.
ATTENTION: Il y a danger d'explosion s'il y a replacement incorrect de la batterie. Remplacer uniquement avec une batterie du
même type ou d'un type recommandé par le constructeur. Mettre au rébut les batteries usagées conformément aux instructions du
fabricant.
For AM-3500-E100, -E200, -E300, -E400, -E500 and AM-990-01 systems replace battery with Panasonic or Ray-O-Vac BR2325
only. For AM-3500-E550, AM-3500-6000, and AM-990-04 systems, replace batteries with Panasonic or Ray-O-Vac BR1225 only.
Use of other batteries may present a risk of fire or explosion. Replacement batteries may be ordered from your authorized Alpha
Micro reseller.
Safety Warning
This computer contains no user-configurable components that require opening the computer case. Because the power supply in
this computer is capable of outputting high current levels hazardous to your safety, the computer case should only be opened by an
authorized service technician.
Cet ordinateur ne contient aucune pièce configurable par l’utilisateur qui nécessite l’ouverture du boitier. L’alimentation de cet
ordinateur peut preduire des nivaeux de tensions dangereux, le boitier ne devrait donc être ouvert que par un technician autoriaé.
SOFTWARE SECURITY DEVICE IDENTIFICATION NUMBER: _________________
The Alpha Micro Software Security Device (SSD) is a customized integrated circuit that personalizes the computer, providing
identity verification for it. Certain Alpha Micro and non-Alpha Micro software may require that your computer contain an SSD in
order to run software that has been customized to run only on your computer.
Please enter the identification of your SSD above. The SSD identification number should be on your computer ID label under "SSD
Serial No." (Another way of finding the number is to look at the SSD itself. The SSD is located in an integrated circuit location on
the CPU board; its identification number is printed on the SSD itself.) Software vendors may ask you for the SSD number if they are
customizing software to run only on your computer.
This document may contain references to products covered under the following U.S. Patent Number(s): 4,530,048
ALPHA MICROSYSTEMS
2722 Fairview Street
P. O. Box 25059
Santa Ana, CA 92704

AM-6060 Computer Owner's Manual, Rev. 00
Table of Contents
CHAPTER 1 - INTRODUCING THE AM-6060 COMPUTER......................................................... 1-1
ABOUT THIS BOOK............................................................................................................................1-2
Graphics Conventions........................................................................................................................1-2
HARDWARE FEATURES....................................................................................................................1-3
AM-301-10 System Board .................................................................................................................1-3
AM-176 Board ...................................................................................................................................1-4
Processor............................................................................................................................................1-4
Memory..............................................................................................................................................1-4
Cache Memory...................................................................................................................................1-4
CMOS Menu Setup............................................................................................................................1-4
SCSI and Wide SCSI Disk Drives .....................................................................................................1-5
External SCSI Port.............................................................................................................................1-5
SCSI Tape Drives...............................................................................................................................1-6
Serial I/O Capability ..........................................................................................................................1-6
Network Options................................................................................................................................1-6
Front Panel Status Display.................................................................................................................1-6
Real Time Clock.................................................................................................................................1-7
Rear I/O Panel....................................................................................................................................1-7
Add-On Equipment ............................................................................................................................1-7
SOFTWARE FEATURES.....................................................................................................................1-7
SERVICE INFORMATION ..................................................................................................................1-8
For Further Assistance .......................................................................................................................1-8
CHAPTER 2 - INSTALLATION .......................................................................................................... 2-1
UNPACKING GUIDELINES................................................................................................................2-1
What You Will Need..........................................................................................................................2-1
Reporting Shipping Damage..............................................................................................................2-2
Instructions for Reshipping the Computer.........................................................................................2-2
RECORDING THE SSD IDENTIFICATION NUMBER.....................................................................2-3
OVERVIEW OF INSTALLATION PROCEDURES............................................................................2-3
Front Panel Controls and Indicators...................................................................................................2-4
AM-6060 Rear I/O Panel Configurations ..........................................................................................2-5
PREPARING THE SITE........................................................................................................................2-6
Physical Requirements.......................................................................................................................2-6
Environmental Requirements.............................................................................................................2-6
Environmental Specifications ............................................................................................................2-6
Static Electricity and Grounding........................................................................................................2-7
POWER AND CABLE CONNECTIONS.............................................................................................2-7
Verifying Voltage Compatibility .......................................................................................................2-8
Turning the Computer On..................................................................................................................2-9

Page ii Table of Contents
AM-6060 Computer Owner's Manual, Rev. 00
INSTALLING THE OPERATOR TERMINAL....................................................................................2-9
Setting the Terminal's Baud Rate and Parameters .............................................................................2-9
Connecting the Cable.......................................................................................................................2-10
INITIAL TESTING..............................................................................................................................2-10
CONNECTING TO THE NETWORK................................................................................................2-10
BOOTING UP UNDER AMOS...........................................................................................................2-10
Testing Your Network Connection..................................................................................................2-11
THE WARM BOOT MONITOR.........................................................................................................2-12
TURNING THE COMPUTER OFF....................................................................................................2-12
EXPANDING YOUR COMPUTER....................................................................................................2-12
GETTING ASSISTANCE ...................................................................................................................2-13
CHAPTER 3 - GETTING STARTED................................................................................................... 3-1
BOOTING THE COMPUTER ..............................................................................................................3-1
AM-6060 CMOS SETUP PROCEDURE..............................................................................................3-1
AM-6060 Initialization Routine.........................................................................................................3-2
CMOS Menu Options ........................................................................................................................3-2
Primary Boot Device Type.............................................................................................................3-3
Primary Boot Device Unit #...........................................................................................................3-3
Alternate Boot Device Type...........................................................................................................3-3
Alternate Boot Device Unit #.........................................................................................................3-3
Boot Monitor File Name................................................................................................................3-3
Boot Initialization File Name.........................................................................................................3-3
Saving the CMOS Settings.................................................................................................................3-4
Important Note ...................................................................................................................................3-4
DEVICE NAMES..................................................................................................................................3-4
The System Disk ................................................................................................................................3-5
DISK ACCOUNTS................................................................................................................................3-5
LOGGING ON.......................................................................................................................................3-6
THE TERMINAL KEYBOARD ...........................................................................................................3-7
Correcting Typing Mistakes...............................................................................................................3-8
ABOUT STREAMING TAPE...............................................................................................................3-9
Tape Capacity.....................................................................................................................................3-9
¼" Tape Drive Read/Write Compatibility .........................................................................................3-9
Loading and Unloading Tape Cartridges.........................................................................................3-10
USING A DAT DRIVE .......................................................................................................................3-10
CHAPTER 4 - WHERE DO I GO FROM HERE?............................................................................. 4-1
INTRODUCTION TO AMOS SOFTWARE ........................................................................................4-1
The Operating System, AMOS ..........................................................................................................4-1
Networking.........................................................................................................................................4-1
Programming Languages....................................................................................................................4-2
Text Preparation.................................................................................................................................4-2
Utility Programs.................................................................................................................................4-2
Application Programs.........................................................................................................................4-2
Office Information Products ..............................................................................................................4-3

Table of Contents Page iii
AM-6060 Computer Owner's Manual, Rev. 00
ADDITIONAL DOCUMENTATION ...................................................................................................4-3
"I Want to Start at the Beginning" .....................................................................................................4-3
"I Want to Learn How to Maintain My Computer"...........................................................................4-4
"I Want to Do Text Processing".........................................................................................................4-4
"I Want to Write Computer Programs"..............................................................................................4-4
CHAPTER 5 - SYSTEM ADMINISTRATION................................................................................... 5-1
BACKING UP YOUR DATA...............................................................................................................5-1
DISK ACCOUNTS................................................................................................................................5-2
Passwords...........................................................................................................................................5-2
Organizing the Disk ...........................................................................................................................5-2
Adding New Accounts.......................................................................................................................5-3
ADDING USER NAMES......................................................................................................................5-4
MODIFYING THE SYSTEM INITIALIZATION FILE.......................................................................5-4
Adding Users......................................................................................................................................5-6
Network Users................................................................................................................................5-7
Serial Users ....................................................................................................................................5-7
Changing User Memory.....................................................................................................................5-8
Multiple Initialization Files................................................................................................................5-9
ANALYZING THE DISK ...................................................................................................................5-10
The REDALL Command .................................................................................................................5-10
The DSKANA Command ................................................................................................................5-11
DSKANA Options............................................................................................................................5-12
The CHECK Option and Automatic Backups..................................................................................5-13
FORMATTING AND INITIALIZING THE HARD DRIVE..............................................................5-13
CHAPTER 6 - PREVENTIVE MAINTENANCE............................................................................... 6-1
CARE OF STREAMING TAPE AND DAT CARTRIDGES...............................................................6-1
¼" STREAMING TAPE DRIVE CLEANING......................................................................................6-1
DAT DRIVE CLEANING.....................................................................................................................6-2
MAIN ENCLOSURE.............................................................................................................................6-2
CHAPTER 7 - TROUBLESHOOTING PROCEDURES................................................................... 7-1
THE SYMPTOMS.................................................................................................................................7-1
Symptom #1: No Display on the Operator Terminal Screen.........................................................7-1
Symptom #2: Scrambled Characters on the Terminal Screen........................................................7-2
Symptom #3: Computer Does Not Finish Booting........................................................................7-2
Symptom #4: Job on Computer Locks Up After Bootup...............................................................7-2
THE TROUBLESHOOTING PROCEDURES .....................................................................................7-2
Procedure #1: Check Power and Activity Lights...............................................................................7-3
Procedure #2: Check the Computer Status Codes..............................................................................7-4
Procedure #3: Power-up/Reset...........................................................................................................7-5
Procedure #4: Check Terminal/Printer ..............................................................................................7-6
Procedure #5: Self Test......................................................................................................................7-8
Procedure #6: Alternate Boot...........................................................................................................7-10
USING LEVEL7..................................................................................................................................7-10

Page iv Table of Contents
AM-6060 Computer Owner's Manual, Rev. 00
CHAPTER 8 - STATUS DISPLAY CODES........................................................................................ 8-1
FRONT PANEL STATUS DISPLAY CODES.....................................................................................8-1
SELF TEST FEATURE.........................................................................................................................8-6
APPENDIX A - CONNECTOR CONFIGURATIONS.......................................................................A-1
ETHERNET RJ-45 10BASET CONNECTOR.....................................................................................A-1
10BaseT Topology and Cabling........................................................................................................A-1
SERIAL I/O CONNECTORS...............................................................................................................A-2
What Is RS-232? ...............................................................................................................................A-2
Important Note ..................................................................................................................................A-2
CABLE CONSTRUCTION GUIDELINES .........................................................................................A-3
Cable Length.....................................................................................................................................A-3
Cable Type ........................................................................................................................................A-3
RS-232 RJ-45 CONNECTOR SIGNALS.............................................................................................A-3
CABLES AVAILABLE FROM ALPHA MICRO...............................................................................A-3
APPENDIX B - THE CONTROL CHARACTERS.............................................................................B-1
APPENDIX C - SUPER I/O...................................................................................................................C-1
DISABLING SUPER I/O......................................................................................................................C-1
APPENDIX D - SCSI TERMINATION................................................................................................D-1
ATTACHING EXTERNAL DEVICES................................................................................................D-2
TERMINATOR POWER......................................................................................................................D-2
APPENDIX E - READ-AHEAD AND WRITE BUFFERING...........................................................E-1
INTRODUCTION.................................................................................................................................E-1
READ-AHEAD.....................................................................................................................................E-1
Controlling Read-Ahead ...................................................................................................................E-2
WRITE BUFFERING...........................................................................................................................E-2
Potential Pitfalls................................................................................................................................E-3
Setting Up Write Buffering...............................................................................................................E-3
FINAL NOTES.....................................................................................................................................E-4
INDEX

AM-6060 Computer Owner's Manual, Rev. 00
List of Illustrations
Figure 2-1: Front Panel Controls and Indicators....................................................................................... 2-4
Figure 2-2: AM-6060 Rear Panel Configuration...................................................................................... 2-5
Figure 3-1: DAT Tape Drive................................................................................................................... 3-11
Figure 5-1: Simple Initialization File........................................................................................................ 5-6
Figure D-1: Active External Terminator Installation ...............................................................................D-1
List of Tables
Table 1-1: Graphics Conventions ............................................................................................................. 1-3
Table 3-1: Special Function Keys on the Terminal Keyboard ................................................................. 3-8
Table 3-2: Supported ¼" Streamer Data Cartridges................................................................................. 3-9
Table 3-3: Supported ¼" Tape Formats.................................................................................................... 3-9
Table 7-1: Self Test Checker (1)............................................................................................................... 7-9
Table 7-2: Self Test Checker (2)............................................................................................................... 7-9
Table 8-1: Front Panel Status Codes......................................................................................................... 8-2

AM-6060 Computer Owner's Manual, Rev. 00
Chapter 1 - Introducing the
AM-6060 Computer
The Alpha Microsystems AM-6060 is a high-performance computer designed for a wide range of
applications in business headquarters, departmental facilities, and professional offices. With power to
support many users simultaneously via network connections, the AM-6060 lends itself to virtually any
business data processing environment.
The AM-6060 is constructed in modular fashion. Your organization can start with just the features and
capacity needed, then expand the system as processing demands increase. The system can be field
upgraded to provide more disk storage, memory, and tape backup capacity.
The AM-6060 is housed in a compact enclosure that fits neatly next to a desk, as shown below:
Figure 1-1: AM-6060 Chassis

Page 1-2 Chapter One
AM-6060 Computer Owner's Manual, Rev. 00
ABOUT THIS BOOK
The purpose of this book is to get you started with your computer. After you've followed the instructions
in this book, your computer will be set up and running. And, you will have a good idea of where to go
next for information on the software you want to use.
• This chapter contains a software and hardware overview of your system. It also discusses the
configurations available, as well as warranty and service information.
• Chapter 2 tells you how to unpack and set up your computer. It also contains information on
choosing an installation site.
• Chapter 3 discusses turning on and resetting the computer, using the terminal keyboard, tape
backup, and turning the computer off.
• Chapter 4 is an overview of the various software available for your computer, and lists the Alpha
Micro documentation you can order to learn more about each subject.
• Chapter 5 discusses some computer maintenance utility programs. It also shows how to allocate
system resources to set up terminals and jobs for network and multi-user operation.
• Chapter 6 contains information on the caring for your computer.
• Chapter 7 is a handbook of troubleshooting procedures you can follow to isolate a problem
should something go wrong with your computer.
• Chapter 8 lists the computer status codes you may see on the front panel display.
• Several appendices contain technical information, including instructions for cable installation.
The AM-6060 Service Manual contains additional information on opening and configuring your
computer. The service manual is intended for authorized technical personnel only.
Graphics Conventions
Like other documents in the Alpha Micro documentation library, this book contains a number of standard
symbols to make our text easier to read and understand.

Introducing the AM-6060 Computer Page 1-3
AM-6060 Computer Owner's Manual, Rev. 00
Symbol Description
This symbol means STOP!, and signals an important
warning or restriction you must know about before
continuing.
This symbol marks a hint, and identifies a shortcut or an
easier way to do something.
This symbol says "Don't forget!" and signals information to
remember.
Text Text that looks like this in our examples shows the
characters the computer displays on your terminal screen,
such as prompts and information messages.
TEXT Text that looks like this in our examples shows the
characters you type on the computer keyboard.
KEY This symbol tells you when to press the indicated key on
your terminal keyboard. For example: DIR RETURN tells
you to press the RETURN key at the end of the DIR
command.
CTRL /CThis combination of symbols tells you to hold down the
first key and press the second key. For example, to type a
CTRL /C(Control-C), press the CTRL key and, while
holding it down, press the Ckey.
Table 1-1: Graphics Conventions
HARDWARE FEATURES
The AM-6060 uses a two-board combination, the AM-176 and the AM-301-10 boards, to provide high
performance and added versatility. A number of physical components go into your AM-6060 computer
to give it the ability to process, input, display, and store data. The following sections highlight some of
these components. For technical information on these devices, refer to the specification sheet supplied
with your computer.
AM-301-10 System Board
The AM-301-10 system board provides the AM-6060 with:
• Four on-board serial I/O ports, with modem control and lightning protection
• SSD (Software Security Device) chip
• Battery-backed CMOS that enables you to change the I/O device the computer boots from
• Interface to AM-966-10 front panel display
• Real-time clock which maintains the date and time

Page 1-4 Chapter One
AM-6060 Computer Owner's Manual, Rev. 00
AM-176 Board
The AM-176 board provides the AM-6060 with:
• 4GB of direct memory addressability
• 64KB external cache memory SIMM
• 8KB on-chip processor instruction cache memory and 8KB of data cache
• On-board serial interface (not used in the AM-6060)
• On-board Ethernet controller with 32-bit DMA transfer capability
• Four on-board single inline memory module (SIMM) expansion slots, which support 60ns
DRAMs for up to 512MB of memory
• SCSI controller with standard and Wide SCSI interfaces
• 20-pin cable connector to AM-368-10 10BaseT Ethernet adapter
Processor
The heart of your computer is its powerful CPU (Central Processing Unit), a high-speed 32-bit
microprocessor. AM-6060 computers have an MC68060 processor running at 66MHz.
Memory
The AM-176 board in the AM-6060 has four sockets in which main memory SIMMs (Single Inline
Memory Modules) are installed. You must always install SIMMs in pairs of equal capacity. The AM-
6060 supports a minimum of 8MB of memory and a maximum of 512MB. Always use PFB-00712-xx
60ns SIMMs.
See the specification sheet included with your computer for more detailed information on memory
capacity, and the AM-6060 Computer Service Manual for instructions on installing it.
Cache Memory
To streamline the use of repetitive instructions within a program and to decrease retrieval time, the AM-
176 board contains an external 64KB combined instruction/data cache. This cache improves the overall
system performance by reducing the number of clock cycles required by the processor to fetch
information from memory. In addition, the CPU has an 8KB instruction cache and an 8KB data cache.
CMOS Menu Setup
The CMOS setup procedure gives you many boot options. Among the CMOS menu options are:
• Select any SCSI disk, at any SCSI address, as the primary boot disk, and any SCSI disk or tape,
at any SCSI address, as an alternate boot device.

Introducing the AM-6060 Computer Page 1-5
AM-6060 Computer Owner's Manual, Rev. 00
• Enter any valid system monitor and/or initialization file to use when booting. The files must be
located in [1,4] of the first logical disk of the selected boot device
SCSI and Wide SCSI Disk Drives
The SCSI controller in the AM-6060 provides two bus interfaces, each originating at a connector on the
AM-176 board. One is a 50-pin SCSI bus interface, the second is a 68-pin Wide SCSI bus interface. Both
interfaces support Alpha Microsystems SCSI disks, streamer tapes, DAT tapes, CD-ROMs and the AM-
642 SCSI to Pertec Converter for ½" tape drives.
For peripheral compatibility and system performance, the significance of the two busses is as follows:
• The "narrow" SCSI bus is one byte wide (8 bits plus parity) and supports a maximum transfer
rate of 10MB per second.
• The Wide SCSI bus is twice as wide: two bytes, or 16 bits plus 2 parity bits. Doubling the width
of the data path doubles the maximum transfer rate to 20MB per second.
The Wide SCSI bus has the following advantages:
• Disk-intensive applications are potentially faster with Wide SCSI disk drives.
• It supports up to 15 devices, where standard SCSI supports only seven, so you can potentially
work with bigger configurations.
These busses are mutually exclusive. That is, all devices must connect to one of the two busses; the other
connector cannot be used. Although not recommended, using the appropriate adapters, you can connect a
mix of SCSI-2 drives and Wide SCSI-2 disk drives to either SCSI bus.
For optimum performance, use Wide SCSI-2 drives attached to the Wide (68-pin) SCSI
connector. Mixing SCSI-1, SCSI-2, and Wide SCSI-2 disks on the same bus tends to degrade
performance and is not recommended.
For most reliable Wide SCSI-2 performance, it is critical to follow the bus length limitations of
the SCSI specifications. For configurations requiring many SCSI devices, especially external
devices as described in the next section, this may require a SCSI repeater housed inside the AM-
6060 chassis. For more information, please see the AM-441 Wide SCSI Repeater Installation
Instructions, PDI-00441-00.
External SCSI Port
Your computer includes an external SCSI (Small Computer Standard Interface) port to which you can
attach additional SCSI compatible storage devices: a disk drive, a CD-ROM drive, or tape drive.
Whether or not you are using an external SCSI device, make sure the SCSI cable is terminated properly.
This normally means plugging an external active terminator into the external SCSI port or the last
external SCSI device.

Page 1-6 Chapter One
AM-6060 Computer Owner's Manual, Rev. 00
SCSI Tape Drives
Your computer contains one or more SCSI compatible ¼" streaming tape or DAT drives, allowing you to
copy and restore files using special tape cartridges. Although your computer does not normally boot from
these tape devices, if something does happen to your computer's hard disk, you can boot your computer
from a special tape. See Chapter 3 for information on tape capacities.
Serial I/O Capability
The AM-301-10 board provides four serial ports, implemented as RJ-45 connectors. These serial ports
provide standard RS-232 serial I/O communication. Because they use an AM-90 Lightning board for
connection to the rear panel, they offer lightning and power surge protection.
The RJ-45 ports are pin-for-pin compatible with the AM-359 serial I/O paddle card ports, so the same
type cabling can be used for both. These ports must use the AM318.IDV interface driver, and are
assigned port numbers 0-3. Refer to Appendix A for serial I/O cabling information.
The AM-6060 is designed to be used by network users connected via the high-speed Ethernet
port. The four serial ports generally connect to the boot terminal, one or more high-speed
modems, and possibly a serial printer or other device.
Network Options
The AM-176 board provides a high-performance Ethernet interface through a 10BaseT connector. Using
the standard AlphaTCP TCP/IP software, you can connect via this interface to a local network, WAN, or
the Internet. The AM-6060 is specifically designed to have its users connected via the Ethernet rather
than serial I/O ports.
The driver for the Ethernet port is only TCP compatible, but ITC tunneling is supported.
Front Panel Status Display
The two-hexadecimal-digit status display on the front panel lets you know what is going on inside the
computer even when no messages appear on your terminal. Some normal functions of the machine (e.g.,
clearing memory when the computer boots) cause codes to appear on the display, as do certain system
errors.
In addition, the self test uses the status display to let you know how it is progressing, and if any errors
have occurred. The self test checks the major hardware components in the computer for proper operation,
including memory, disk controllers and drives, the interval timer, and the serial I/O ports.
For information on all meaningful codes that can appear on the front panel display, see Chapter 8,
"Status Display Codes." For information on using the self test, see the Self Test User's Guide, DSO-
00156-00, that came with your computer.

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AM-6060 Computer Owner's Manual, Rev. 00
Real Time Clock
The system has a Real Time Clock chip which is part of the CMOS system setup. Both the CMOS boot
settings and the time and date are battery backed-up, providing a high level of time, date, and CMOS
protection against corruption by a malfunctioning program.
Rear I/O Panel
The AM-6060 rear panel provides connectors for four RJ-45 serial ports. These connectors are on an
AM-90 Lightning Board, cabled to the four ports on the AM-301-10 board. It also contains connectors
for the Ethernet and external SCSI ports. Since this back panel (see Figure 2-2) is also used for other
Alpha Micro computers, additional cutouts, not required on the AM-6060, are covered.
Add-On Equipment
The only thing you need to add is a terminal. It allows you to input and display the data processed and
stored by the components discussed above. You will probably also want to add one or more high-speed
modems on the other serial ports, and connect some number of workstations or other computers via an
Ethernet network. You can connect a serial printer to one of the four serial ports, and/or access printers
connected elsewhere on the network via the AlphaTCP remote printing features. Your Value Added
Reseller (VAR) may have provided these items as part of your computer purchase.
If you want to expand your computer in the future by adding additional storage and backup devices, see
the AM-6060 Service Manual for a diagram of where additional peripherals should be located in your
cabinet.
SOFTWARE FEATURES
Computer hardware is all potential and no action until the software programs instruct it to do something.
Some of the features of the standard system software are listed below. Your VAR can provide software
packages specifically suited to your needs, such as accounting software, programming languages,
mathematical packages, and so on. Those packages are not included in this list. See your VAR for
information on service and support for such packages.
• The operating system, AMOS, performs many functions, one of which is to manage the
computer's resources so multiple users can run on the computer at the same time. The operating
system also includes all support software for the hardware devices mentioned above.
• AlphaTCP allows your Alpha Micro computer to communicate using the TCP/IP protocol. This
allows you to use networked PCs as I/O terminals on the AM-6060, connect to the Internet, send
and receive mail, and transfer files.
• Programs called "print spoolers" let you use one or more printers at the same time without tying
up a user terminal.
• The Task Manager lets you schedule multiple background tasks to run without operator control
at preset times and dates.

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AM-6060 Computer Owner's Manual, Rev. 00
• A sophisticated command language allows you to invoke a stream of commands and program
input (predefined by you) by entering a single command.
• The business-oriented AlphaBASIC and AlphaBASIC PLUS programming languages are
uniquely suited to the programming of business applications software packages.
• ISAM (Indexed Sequential Access Method) Plus, a machine language file management system
callable from AlphaBASIC or assembly language programs, provides a method for quick
information organization and retrieval.
• A screen-oriented text editor provides an easy-to-use tool for creating documents.
• A simple system initialization procedure allows you to quickly change the types of peripheral
devices connected to the computer, change user memory allocations, and customize the
computer to your exact needs.
• Support for many different kinds of printers and terminals gives you the ability to define your
own type of terminal or printer to the computer.
For an introduction to AMOS software, refer to Chapter 4, "Where Do I Go from Here?"
SERVICE INFORMATION
Alpha Micro provides a comprehensive post-sales service and support program for its entire product line.
Our VAR network is structured to give you immediate access to support assistance and information.
Our customer commitment is maintained through the expertise and skills of our competent, professional
staff, whose dedication assures all Alpha Micro customers the maximum benefits of quality support.
Alpha Micro warrants its products through our VAR network. Alpha Micro will repair or replace a
defective product under warranty without cost to the purchaser. If you want to arrange for factory
warranty service for your equipment, you should obtain a Return Authorization Number from the Alpha
Micro Technical Assistance Center. To arrange for on-site warranty service at your location, contact your
Alpha Micro VAR or AMSO service organization.
In addition to the warranty service provided, support is available through Alpha Microsystems Services
Operation (AMSO), our nationwide field service organization. AMSO provides direct repair services to
Alpha Micro computer owners. Alpha Micro Field Engineers are factory trained to ensure continuity of
product servicing. Should you select hardware service from your servicing Alpha Micro VAR, you can
be assured he or she is backed by, and in close touch with, Alpha Micro for full factory support.
For Further Assistance
If you are unable to contact your VAR, Alpha Micro will be glad to refer you to one. If you relocate and
want to learn the name and address of an Alpha Micro dealer near you, please write or call Alpha Micro.
For information and the location of the Alpha Micro service location nearest you, call our toll free
service number [phone].

AM-6060 Computer Owner's Manual, Rev. 00
Chapter 2 - Installation
This chapter gives general installation information for your computer. It discusses the following topics:
• Unpacking the computer
• Instructions for re-shipping the computer
• Recording the SSD identification number
• Preparing the site for your computer
• Verifying AC power requirements
• Turning on the computer
• Installing the operator terminal
• Initially testing the computer
• Booting under AMOS
• Testing the network setup
• Turning off the computer
• Expanding your computer
• How to get help if you need it
UNPACKING GUIDELINES
Unpack the computer and save all packing material and cartons in case you ever need to transport the
computer. The shipping material was carefully designed to provide optimum cushioning and protection.
When re-shipping or otherwise transporting your computer, you must use the original packaging to
ensure safe shipment.
When moving your computer, handle it gently. The hard disk in the main unit has moving parts and
delicate read/write heads. Rough handling could damage the drive and prevent your system from
operating properly.
Unpack the terminal which will serve as the operator terminal and set it aside for now.
What You Will Need
When you unpack your computer you should find the following items:
• Documentation, including this manual, and warranty cards
• The main enclosure
• One AC power cord

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AM-6060 Computer Owner's Manual, Rev. 00
In addition to the equipment Alpha Micro has provided and the operator terminal, you may need the
following:
1. Cabling and any additional hardware to attach your AM-6060 to your Ethernet network.
2. Any new PCs, workstations, or other devices you’ll be adding to your network to use with the
AM-6060.
3. Properly configured cables for connecting your terminal to the computer.
4. The manufacturer's operator manuals for your terminals and printers.
5. If your computer is set for 230 Volt AC operation, you need a 230 Volt AC power cord with the
correct plug for your geographical area. Your local VAR may already have included this power
cord with your computer; if not, contact your VAR for information on where to get it.
Reporting Shipping Damage
If there is any damage to the shipping container or the main enclosure, or if you are missing any items on
the unpacking checklist, please call your VAR immediately.
Instructions for Reshipping the Computer
If shipping damage has occurred or the self test indicates a problem with the computer, your VAR may
recommend that you ship it back.
If for some reason you cannot contact the VAR you bought your computer from, please call the Alpha
Micro Sales Department; they will give you the name and address of an Alpha Micro VAR near you who
can help you. See "Service Information" in Chapter 1.
When reshipping or otherwise transporting your computer, you must use the original packaging to ensure
safe shipment.
Please include a note to the person who will receive the computer containing the following
information: your name, address, phone number, the date you shipped the computer back, and the
reason for return.
Be as specific as possible about the problem you experienced—the more information you provide the
easier it will be for the service technician to determine the reasons for any problems. If you performed
any troubleshooting procedures, let the person receiving the computer know exactly what procedures you
have done and what the results were.

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AM-6060 Computer Owner's Manual, Rev. 00
RECORDING THE SSD IDENTIFICATION NUMBER
The Software Security Device (SSD) is a customized integrated circuit located on the AM-301-10 board
inside your AM-6060 computer. The SSD uniquely identifies your computer to customized software that
has been configured to run only on your computer. If you purchase customized software from your VAR
or other software vendors, you may need to give them your SSD identification number (printed on the
SSD chip itself) before they can "key" the software to your computer.
The SSD identification number is written on the system ID label on the back of the computer in the
section titled "SSD Serial No." Please note the identification number of your SSD at this time and enter
the number on the copyright page at the front of this book.
OVERVIEW OF INSTALLATION PROCEDURES
Now that you've unpacked your computer and have everything you need to hook it up, you can begin to
physically install it. Installing your computer is a matter of:
1. Choosing and preparing a location.
2. Making sure the computer is configured correctly for your local electrical requirements.
3. Running an initial diagnostic test to make sure the computer is working correctly.
4. Connecting the operator terminal.
5. Connecting the computer to the Ethernet.
6. Booting under AMOS and checking network performance.
7. Creating a warm boot tape.
8. Modifying the networking configuration, if necessary.
9. Connecting any additional serial terminals or printers.
This chapter covers the first seven of these steps. The last two, which you can do any time after the
computer is up and running, are discussed in Chapter 5.
Some of the topics in this chapter refer to various locations on the front and back panels of the computer.
The next two sections describe the front and rear panel connectors, controls, and indicators.

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AM-6060 Computer Owner's Manual, Rev. 00
Front Panel Controls and Indicators
Figure 2-1, below, shows the chassis front panel. The panel has the following controls and indicators:
• The Power switch turns the computer on and off. This switch, at the top right of the computer, is
not shown in Figure 2-1.
• The two-character display shows various codes depending on the state of the computer. It is also
used during the computer’s self-test feature. See Chapters 7 and 8 for more on this display.
• The Power light is lit when the computer is turned on.
• The Turbo light indicates system activity.
• In some configurations, the Turbo button lets you put the system into a special diagnostic state
known as LEVEL7. This is necessary only if you are having certain hard-to-diagnose system
problems. Please see Chapter 7 for more information.
• The Reset button lets you reset the computer from the control panel. When you press the Reset
button, the hardware resets and the computer reboots. To avoid losing any data, make sure there
are no applications running and the H.D.D. light is out before you press the Reset button.
• The H.D.D. light is lit whenever there is activity on the SCSI bus: the computer is reading from
or writing to a disk or tape.
Figure 2-1: Front Panel Controls and Indicators
Two-character display
Turbo button
Reset button
Power light
SCSI activity light
System activity light

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AM-6060 Rear I/O Panel Configurations
The illustration below shows the AM-6060 rear panel configuration. It shows only part of the back of the
computer chassis.
SERIAL PORTS
ETHERNET CONNECTION
EXTERNAL SCSI PORT
BOOT PORT
OTHER BACK PANEL
CUTOUTS ARE NOT
USED BY THE AM-6060,
AND ARE COVERED.
0123
Figure 2-2: AM-6060 Rear Panel Configuration
The cutouts which are covered on your back panel are for options which do not apply to the AM-6060—
this panel is also used for other Alpha Micro computers. As shown, the back panel offers connectors for
the four on-board serial ports, the Ethernet connection, and an external SCSI connector.