Alpha Microsystems Eagle TX Series Technical document

DSM-00218-01
Eagle TX Series
AMOS Based
Terminal Server
Technical/Installation
Manual
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© 1998 ALPHA MICROSYSTEMS
REVISIONS INCORPORATED
REVISION DATE
00 April 1999
01 August 1999
Eagle TX Series AMOS Based Terminal Server Technical Manual
To re-order this document, request part number DSO-00218-00.
This document applies to Eagle 100TX and 450 TX Terminal Servers.
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-TX100 systems, replace battery with Panasonic or Ray-O-Vac BR2325 only. For AM-3500-TX450 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.
ALPHA MICROSYSTEMS
2722 Fairview Street
P. O. Box 25059
Santa Ana, CA 92704

Eagle TX Series AMOS Based Terminal Server Technical Manual, Rev. 01
Table of Contents
CHAPTER 1 -INTRODUCING THE EAGLE TX SERIES TERMINAL SERVER....................1-1
ABOUT THIS BOOK ......................................................................................................................1-3
Graphics Conventions ...................................................................................................................1-4
HARDWARE FEATURES ..............................................................................................................1-5
CPU Board...................................................................................................................................1-5
Eagle 100TX (AM-137 CPU Board) .........................................................................................1-5
Eagle 450TX (AM-138 CPU Board) .........................................................................................1-5
AM-703 Flashcard........................................................................................................................1-6
Memory........................................................................................................................................1-6
Serial I/O Capability.....................................................................................................................1-6
Eagle 100TX.............................................................................................................................1-6
Eagle 450TX.............................................................................................................................1-6
Network Capability.......................................................................................................................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 -EAGLE TX SERIES SPECIFICS.............................................................................2-1
SYSTEM ORGANIZATION............................................................................................................2-1
SYSTEM OPERATION OVERVIEW..............................................................................................2-1
CHAPTER 3 -INSTALLATION.......................................................................................................3-1
QUICK EAGLE TX SERIES INSTALLATION OVERVIEW .........................................................3-1
UNPACKING GUIDELINES...........................................................................................................3-2
What You Will Need.....................................................................................................................3-2
Reporting Shipping Damage..........................................................................................................3-2
Instructions for Reshipping the Terminal Server.............................................................................3-3
FRONT PANEL CONTROLS AND INDICATORS........................................................................3-3
EAGLE 100TX REAR I/O PANEL CONFIGURATIONS ...............................................................3-5
EAGLE 450TX REAR I/O PANEL CONFIGURATIONS ...............................................................3-6
PREPARING THE SITE..................................................................................................................3-7
Environmental Requirements.........................................................................................................3-7
Environmental Specifications.........................................................................................................3-7
Static Electricity and Grounding....................................................................................................3-7
POWER AND CABLE CONNECTIONS.........................................................................................3-8
Verifying Voltage Compatibility....................................................................................................3-9

Page ii Table of Contents
Eagle TX Series AMOS Based Terminal Server Technical Owner's Manual, Rev. 01
Turning the Eagle TX Series On....................................................................................................3-9
INSTALLING THE INITIAL (OPERATOR) TERMINAL............................................................3-10
Setting the Terminal's Baud Rate and Parameters.........................................................................3-10
Connecting the Cable ..................................................................................................................3-10
BOOTING UP UNDER AMOS......................................................................................................3-10
CONNECTING TO THE NETWORK...........................................................................................3-11
SPECIAL SOFTWARE CONSIDERATIONS ...............................................................................3-11
System Initialization Files............................................................................................................3-11
Network Customization...............................................................................................................3-12
Automatic configuration..........................................................................................................3-12
Manual configuration..............................................................................................................3-13
Updating the Flashcard................................................................................................................3-14
FLASHCARD RECOVERY PLANNING......................................................................................3-15
ALPHANET CONSIDERATIONS ................................................................................................3-15
CUSTOMIZING NOTES...............................................................................................................3-15
TURNING THE TERMINAL SERVER OFF.................................................................................3-16
EXPANDING YOUR EAGLE TX SERIES TERMINAL SERVER...............................................3-16
GETTING ASSISTANCE..............................................................................................................3-16
CHAPTER 4 -SYSTEM ADMINISTRATION.................................................................................4-1
EAGLE TX SERIES CMOS SETUP INFORMATION....................................................................4-1
MODIFYING THE SYSTEM INITIALIZATION FILE...................................................................4-3
FLUTIL SOFTWARE UTILITY......................................................................................................4-4
Flashcard Update..........................................................................................................................4-5
Flashcard Recovery.......................................................................................................................4-6
Option #1 - XMODEM Cold BOOT .........................................................................................4-6
Option #2 - Download Complete Image File Backup..................................................................4-8
Option #3 - Replace the flashcard..............................................................................................4-8
Defining The Terminal Server’s Parallel Port.................................................................................4-8
APPENDIX A -CONNECTOR CONFIGURATIONS ....................................................................A-1
ETHERNET RJ-45 10BASET CONNECTOR ................................................................................ A-1
10BaseT Topology and Cabling ...................................................................................................A-1
ETHERNET FEMALE DB-15 A.U.I. CONNECTOR..................................................................... A-2
SERIAL I/O CONNECTORS..........................................................................................................A-2
What Is RS-232? ......................................................................................................................... A-2
Important Note.............................................................................................................................A-3
CABLE CONSTRUCTION GUIDELINES.....................................................................................A-3
Cable Length................................................................................................................................A-3
Cable Type..................................................................................................................................A-3
RS-232 RJ-45 CONNECTOR SIGNALS........................................................................................ A-3
RS-232 DB-9 CONNECTOR SIGNALS.........................................................................................A-4
CABLES AVAILABLE FROM ALPHA MICRO............................................................................A-4
Sample Cable for Connecting the Terminal Server to a PC............................................................A-5
Sample Cable for Connecting the Terminal Server to an Alpha Micro Host Computer...................A-5

Table of Contents Page iii
Eagle TX Series AMOS Based Terminal Server Technical Manual, Rev. 01
APPENDIX B -THE CONTROL CHARACTERS.......................................................................... B-1
APPENDIX C -EAGLE 100TX INI & CONFIGURATION FILES...............................................C-1
AMOS32.INI................................................................................................................................... C-1
ALPNET.INI................................................................................................................................... C-3
VDKINI.INI.................................................................................................................................... C-4
CONFIG. ........................................................................................................................................ C-6
HOSTS. .......................................................................................................................................... C-6
ITCD............................................................................................................................................... C-6
NETWRK. ...................................................................................................................................... C-7
APPENDIX D -EAGLE 450TX INI & CONFIGURATION FILES...............................................D-1
AMOS32.INI...................................................................................................................................D-1
TRMS32.INI...................................................................................................................................D-3
ALPNET.INI...................................................................................................................................D-6
CONFIG. ........................................................................................................................................D-7
HOSTS. ..........................................................................................................................................D-8
ITCD...............................................................................................................................................D-8
NETWRK. ......................................................................................................................................D-8

Eagle TX Series AMOS Based Terminal Server Technical Manual, Rev. 01
List of Illustrations
Figure 1-1: Eagle-TX Series Terminal Server.......................................................................................1-1
Figure 1-2: Eagle TX Series Terminal Server with Remote Terminals and Printer................................1-2
Figure 1-3: Eagle TX Series Configured to Hot-Key Switch Between AMOS Hosts.............................1-2
Figure 1-4: System Concepts: Eagle TX Series Terminal Server Interaction with the AMOS Host .......1-3
Figure 2-1: Eagle TX Series Memory Map...........................................................................................2-1
Figure 3-1: Front Panel Controls and Indicators....................................................................................3-4
Figure 3-2: Eagle 100TX Rear Panel Configuration..............................................................................3-5
Figure 3-3: Eagle 450TX Rear Panel Configuration..............................................................................3-6
List ofTables
Table 1-1: Graphics Conventions..........................................................................................................1-4

Eagle TX Series AMOS Based Terminal Server Technical Manual, Rev. 01
Chapter 1 - Introducing the
Eagle TX Series Terminal Server
The Alpha Microsystems Eagle TX Series is a high-performance network adapter for adding serial
peripherals - primarily ASCII terminals, printers, and modems - and one parallel interface compatible
peripheral. The Eagle 100TX is based upon the popular Eagle 100 multi-user business computer which
contains circuitry for adding up to eight (8) serial peripherals. The Eagle 450TX also contains circuitry to
support up to eight (8) serial peripherals, but can be expanded to support up to thirty-two (32) serial
peripherals. Both products include a 4 MB Flash memory (Flashcard) instead of the standard SCSI
interface subsystem included on the standard Eagle series of multi-user business computers. A
customized version of the latest AMOS operating system software is preloaded into the Flashcard during
the manufacturing process. Also preloaded into the Flashcard is a version of MULTI, Alpha Micro’s
window based environment manager. Detailed documentation for MULTI is available at the Alpha Micro
web site (www.amos-online.com) or can be ordered through your Alpha Micro authorized dealer.
The Eagle TX Series terminal server is constructed in modular fashion, and is housed in the standard
Eagle deskside enclosure, shown in Figure 1-1. It comes standard with 32 MB of main memory.
Figure 1-1: Eagle-TX Series Terminal Server

Page 1-2 Chapter One
Eagle TX Series AMOS Based Terminal Server Technical Manual, Rev. 01
The prerequisite for using the Eagle TX Series terminal server is that you already have an AMOS based
network installation using AlphaTCP 1.4A (or later) or AlphaNET 2.4. With the terminal server, you can
install terminals wherever the network reaches. Distance limitations of RS-232 cabling are no longer a
factor. A typical system configuration is shown in Figure 1-2.
Figure 1-2: Eagle TX Series Terminal Server with Remote Terminals and Printer
The Eagle TX Series is more than just a terminal server, however. It is a powerful AMOS-based
computer in its own right. That means you can run applications there, offloaded from the host CPU. In
fact, MULTI, Alpha Micro’s window based environment manager, is also included in the Eagle TX’s
Flashcard, allowing you to run MULTI remotely and free up the host CPU for other processing needs.
Figure 1-3 shows an Eagle TX Series terminal server configured on a network with two AMOS host
systems, utilizing the built-in MULTI software to switch between the two hosts with a single keystroke,
and Figure 1-4 illustrates various system concepts regarding the Eagle TX interaction with an AMOS
based host computer.
Figure 1-3: Eagle TX Series Configured to Hot-Key Switch Between AMOS Hosts
Twisted-pair Ethernet cable
RS-232 terminal cables
AMOS Host
System
Up to 32 terminals …. and a printer
(8 on Eagle 100TX)
Local terminals
10BaseT Hub
Eagle TX Series Terminal Server
AMOS Host
System A Eagle TX Series Terminal Server AMOS Host
System B
Å Pressing FUNCT S is all it takes to switch the
terminal from Host System A to Host System B

Introducing The Eagle TX Series Terminal Server Page 1-3
Eagle TX Series AMOS Based Terminal Server Technical Manual, Rev. 01
Figure 1-4: System Concepts: Eagle TX Series Terminal Server Interaction with the AMOS Host
ABOUT THIS BOOK
The purpose of this book is to get you started with your terminal server. After you've followed the
instructions in this book, your terminal server will be set up and running, attached to your system
network.
•This chapter contains a software and hardware overview of your system. It also discusses
warranty and service information.
Multiple
tasks can
run on
the same
terminal,
under
MULTI
Stock
Status
Eagle TX Series
Terminal Server
with
Embedded MULTI
T PT
Å Up to 32 Æ
Ethernet Backbone
AMOS
Host
System
(MULTI is
not
required
in the
AMOS
host)
Order
Entry
Billing
Phone
List
etc.
Windowing happens
here, in the
Terminal Server
…which offloads
processes from
the AMOS host.
Bottom Line — Better performance throughout the system
You can configure the
system to open
multiple TELNET
sessions into the host,
automatically TP
Legend
Terminal Printer
Eagle TX Series
supports Line
Printer (LPD)
protocol

Page 1-4 Chapter One
Eagle TX Series AMOS Based Terminal Server Technical Manual, Rev. 01
•Chapter 2 gives you an introduction to the specific structure of the Eagle TX Series, describing
the configuration as it differs from the standard Eagle computer system.
•Chapter 3 tells you how to unpack and set up your terminal server. It also contains information
on choosing an installation site, as well as customizing the configuration for your particular
network configuration.
•Chapter 4 discusses various system administration issues regarding the initialization of your
Eagle TX Series.
•Several appendices contain technical information, including instructions for cable installation.
The Eagle Computer Service Manual contains additional information on opening and configuring your
terminal server. 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.
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

Introducing The Eagle TX Series Terminal Server Page 1-5
Eagle TX Series AMOS Based Terminal Server Technical Manual, Rev. 01
HARDWARE FEATURES
The Eagle TX Series terminal servers use a modified version of the same powerful CPU (Central
Processing Unit) used in the fully configured system versions of these servers. The Eagle 100TX’s main
processor is a MC68030 CPU, and the Eagle 450TX’s main processor is a Motorola MCF5102 ColdFire
chip. The primary difference between the TX versions and the full system versions is that no disk or
SCSI interface channel exists in the Eagle TX Series. All resident software is pre-loaded into the AM-703
4 MB Flashcard.
The following sections highlight some of the main components within the Eagle TX Series:
CPU Board
Eagle 100TX (AM-137 CPU Board)
The AM-137 board provides the Eagle 100TX with:
•Eight on-board serial I/O ports, with modem control and optional lightning protection
•SSD (Software Security Device) chip 70000, specifically selected for the Eagle 100TX
configurations.
•MC68EC030 CPU chip running at 40 MHz
•32-bit bi-directional data path and 32 bit address path
•256-byte internal cache memory
•Real-time clock which maintains the date and time, battery backed up
Eagle 450TX (AM-138 CPU Board)
The AM-138 board provides the Eagle 450TX with:
•Eight on-board serial I/O ports, with modem control and lightning protection
•SSD (Software Security Device) chip 70002, specifically selected for the Eagle 450TX
configurations.
•MCF5102 ColdFire microprocessor running at 33 MHz
•32-bit bi-directional data path and 32 bit address path
•2 K byte, 4-way set associative internal instruction cache memory
•Real-time clock which maintains the date and time, battery backed up
•16-bit Ethernet controller with dual-port memory and both AUI and 10BaseT interfaces

Page 1-6 Chapter One
Eagle TX Series AMOS Based Terminal Server Technical Manual, Rev. 01
AM-703 Flashcard
The AM-703 Flashcard provides 4 MB of flash memory which is pre-loaded with a special version of the
AMOS operating system for use only on the terminal server product line.
AMOS for the Eagle 100TX supports simultaneous operation at the eight serial ports on the terminal
server plus two channels for system management and maintenance. The operating system also supports
the terminal server’s parallel port, which does not require an additional user license.
AMOS for the Eagle 450TX supports simultaneous operation for up to thirty-two serial ports on the
terminal server, plus two channels for system management and maintenance. The operating system also
supports the terminal server’s parallel port and UPS status port, neither of which requires an additional
user license.
Memory
The AM-137 board in the Eagle 100TX has one socket that accommodates a main memory SIMM
(Single Inline Memory Module). The AM-138 board in the Eagle 450TX has two sockets that can
contain main memory SIMMs. A 32 MB SIMM is furnished as standard in both systems.
Serial I/O Capability
Eagle 100TX
The AM-137 board provides eight serial ports. The ports are brought to the rear I/O panel at either DB-9
or RJ-45 connectors, depending on which Eagle 100TX model is ordered. When ordered with RJ-45
ports, the Eagle 100TX comes equipped with AM-90 Lightning boards that provide lightning and power
surge protection. Both RJ-45 and DB-9 ports provide standard RS-232 serial I/O communication.
Eagle 450TX
The AM-138 board provides eight serial ports. The ports are brought to the rear I/O panel at RJ-45
connectors, and include AM-90 Lightning boards that provide lightning and power surge protection.
These ports provide standard RS-232 serial I/O communication.
The Eagle 450TX can be expanded up to thirty-two (32) serial ports, in eight (8) port increments. This is
done via the purchase of AM-318-10 boards, which can be installed in the Eagle 450TX.
Network Capability
The basic Ethernet network capability for the Eagle 100TX is provided by an AM-366 board. This board
provides a standard Ethernet connection through a standard 15-pin connector. An optional Ethernet
interface through a 10BaseT connector is available utilizing the AM-368-10 board.

Introducing The Eagle TX Series Terminal Server Page 1-7
Eagle TX Series AMOS Based Terminal Server Technical Manual, Rev. 01
The Ethernet network capability for the Eagle 450TX is provided on the main CPU board, and includes
both the standard 15-pin Ethernet connector and 10BaseT connector.
Real Time Clock
The system has a Real Time Clock chip which is part of the terminal server’s main CPU board. The time
and date information is battery backed-up.
Rear I/O Panel
The Eagle TX Series rear panel provides connectors for all serial ports. It also contains connectors for the
25 pin parallel port and Ethernet port, either via 15 pin Ethernet connector and / or 10BaseT connector.
Add-On Equipment
In addition to establishing the basic network connection between your network and the Eagle TX Series,
the only thing you need to add is a terminal. You can add up to a maximum of thirty-two terminals, serial
printers, or modems via the serial connectors on the rear panel. You may also want to add a parallel
printer.
SOFTWARE FEATURES
A special version of the AMOS operating system has been included in your Eagle TX Series’ Flashcard
to provide the following capabilities:
•The operating system, AMOS, performs many functions, one of which is to manage the
computer's resources so multiple users can run on the Eagle TX Series at the same time. The
operating system also includes all support software for the hardware devices mentioned above.
•AlphaTCP allows your Eagle TX Series to communicate using the TCP/IP protocol.
•Programs called "print spoolers" let you use one or more printers at the same time without tying
up a user terminal.
•A sophisticated command language allows you to invoke a stream of commands and program
input (predefined by you) by entering a single command.
•A screen-oriented text editor provides an easy-to-use tool for creating documents.
•A simple system initialization procedure allows you to quickly change various system
parameters, such as network IP address, types and number of peripheral devices connected to the
Eagle TX Series, change user memory allocations, and customize the Eagle TX Series 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 Eagle TX Series.
MULTI, Alpha Micro’s window based environment manager, has also been included in your Eagle TX
Series. This software allows you to run multiple tasks on one or more host computers, enabling you to
quickly and easily switch between them.

Page 1-8 Chapter One
Eagle TX Series AMOS Based Terminal Server Technical Manual, Rev. 01
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 Alpha Micro’s standard warranty program. 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 that your VAR 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].

Eagle TX Series AMOS Based Terminal Server Technical Manual, Rev. 01
Chapter 2 - Eagle TX Series
Specifics
The Eagle TX Series is based on the popular Eagle Series of multi-user business computer systems, but
there are some specific characteristics that need to be understood to be able to take maximum advantage
of the Eagle TX Series products. This chapter addresses both the unique hardware and software features
that are introduced in this product line.
SYSTEM ORGANIZATION
The Eagle TX Series members are basically diskless multi-user computers. In place of the disk subsystem
normally found in our multi-user business computer systems, a new 4 MB Flashcard, the AM-703, has
been developed to store a copy of a specially configured version of the AMOS operation system
(AMOS2.3A or later). This software has been configured to communicate with a host computer through a
network and manage the data flow to up to eight serial ports and one parallel port.
The memory map for the Eagle TX Series is shown below.
Top of Memory
4 MB 4 MB Flashcard
Job Memory (download at RESET into top of main memory)
Total
RAM System Memory
Memory
SIMM Jobs & TRMDEFs
AMOS Monitor
Address 0
Figure 2-1: Eagle TX Series Memory Map
SYSTEM OPERATION OVERVIEW
When the Eagle TX is turned on, the boot code sizes the DRAM memory and subtracts 4 MB from the
total memory size. This “end of memory” value is stored in a variable for use by the AMOS operating
system. This uppermost 4 MB will be referred to as a RAM disk.
Next, the boot code copies the contents of the Flashcard into the DRAM just past the end of memory
value, thereby loading the RAM disk. There is a special disk driver (RAM.DVR[1,6]) imbedded into the

Page 2-2 Chapter Two
Eagle TX Series AMOS Based Terminal Server Technical Manual, Rev. 01
AMOS monitor that emulates a disk drive. This disk driver works by adding the physical block requested
to the base of the RAM disk, and reads and writes the data to that location.
The boot code then copies the AMOS monitor from the RAM disk to the beginning of memory just as a
normal AMOS system would load the AMOS monitor from a hard disk drive. After the monitor is loaded
into memory, the boot code jumps to the monitor and the monitor execution begins.
When AMOS is “up and running”, all disk calls are made to the disk driver which uses the RAM disk
only. If new files are written to the RAM disk, or changes are made to existing files, only DRAM is
affected and any changes will be lost on reset or power fail.
In order to save changes to the RAM disk, a special software utility (FLUTIL.LIT) must be run. This
utility is described in detail in Chapter 4. When FLUTIL.LIT is run, the contents of the RAM disk are
copied back to the Flashcard. If power is lost during this operation, or reset is pressed, then all contents
will be lost. For recovery purposes, we have included a means of booting the system over a serial cable.
The serial boot requires that an image of the RAM disk be made and saved on another system (PC
recommended) for backup purposes and uploading back to the terminal server.
You can use the FLUTIL.LIT software utility to also make the backup image of the Flashcard. This
requires that a separate RAM subsystem disk (VDK) be defined so that the image file (TRM4MB.IMG)
can temporarily be stored there. The subsystem disk is required because the main RAM disk (DSK:) does
not have enough room to store an image of itself. This process requires that you be logged into OPR:. An
INI file (VDKINI.INI) has been included in the Flashcard that can be MONTSTed which will configure
the terminal server for that purpose.

Eagle TX Series AMOS Based Terminal Server Technical Manual, Rev. 01
Chapter 3 - Installation
This chapter gives general installation information for your terminal server. It discusses the following
topics:
•Quick terminal server installation procedure summary
•Unpacking the terminal server
•Instructions for re-shipping the terminal server
•Preparing the site for your terminal server
•Verifying AC power requirements
•Turning on the terminal server
•Installing the initial terminal
•Initially testing the terminal server
•Booting under AMOS
•Testing the network setup
•Turning off the terminal server
•Expanding your terminal server
•How to get help if you need it
QUICK EAGLE TX SERIES INSTALLATION OVERVIEW
This section outlines the steps necessary to install the Eagle TX Series. Additional details about each step
are included in the corresponding sections of this chapter.
•Unpack the terminal server and plug into AC power source.
•Connect an AM-65 or compatible terminal to port 0 of the terminal server, with baud rate set to
19200 baud.
•Attach the terminal server to the network.
•Turn on the terminal server and observe boot up.
•If necessary, using the terminal attached to port 0, edit the TCP related files so that the terminal
server has network access. This includes changing the IP address of the terminal server in the
NETWRK. file, any router IP address in the CONFIG. file, and other IP addresses in the HOSTS.
file.
•Log into OPR: account and MONTST AMOS32, AMOS32
•The terminal server should now communicate between the host computer and the terminals.

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•Connect any additional serial terminals and parallel printer, and configure, if necessary, in the
system initialization file
•If any changes were made, execute FLUTIL.LIT to save all new settings to the Flashcard, and
make a backup of the Flashcard contents for emergency recovery purposes.
To make a backup of the contents of the Flashcard:
•For the Eagle 100TX, log into OPR: account and MONTST VDKINI.INI instead of AMOS32.
Skip this step for the Eagle 450TX.
•Run the FLUTIL utility to make the backup.
•Run FTP on the PC attached to the network and get the file from the terminal server, or ftp it to
the Alpha Micro host..
This resulting file can be used, if necessary, to restore the contents of the Flashcard if it is damaged due
to some future action.
UNPACKING GUIDELINES
Unpack the Eagle TX Series and save all packing material and cartons in case you ever need to
transport the product. The shipping material was carefully designed to provide optimum cushioning and
protection. When re-shipping or otherwise transporting your Eagle TX Series terminal server, you must
use the original packaging to ensure safe shipment.
What You Will Need
When you unpack your terminal server you should find the following items:
•Documentation, including this manual, and warranty cards
•The main enclosure
•One AC power cord
In addition to the equipment Alpha Micro has provided and a terminal, you will also need the following:
1. Cabling and any additional hardware to attach your Eagle TX to your Ethernet network.
2. Properly configured cables for connecting your terminal to the terminal server.
3. The manufacturer's operator manuals for your terminals and printers.
4. If your terminal server 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 terminal server; 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.

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Instructions for Reshipping the Terminal Server
If shipping damage has occurred or a functional problem exists with the terminal server, your VAR may
recommend that you ship it back.
If for some reason you cannot contact the VAR you bought your terminal server 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 terminal server, you must use the original packaging to
ensure safe shipment.
Please include a note to the person who will receive the product containing the following
information: your name, address, phone number, the date you shipped the product 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 product know exactly what procedures you
have done and what the results were.
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 terminal server on and off. This switch, at the top right of the
terminal server, is not shown in Figure 2-1.
•The Power light is lit when the product is turned on.
•The Turbo or HDD light is used as the system activity indicator..
•The Reset button lets you reset the terminal server from the control panel. When you press the
Reset button, the hardware resets and the terminal server reboots. To avoid losing any data, make
sure there are no applications running before you press the Reset button.

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Figure 3-1: Front Panel Controls and Indicators
Turbo or Stand-by
button
(
not used
)
Reset button
Power light
System activity light