Digital Equipment InfoServer 150 Instruction Manual

InfoServer150
InstallationandOwner’sGuide
Order Number: EK–INFSV–OM–001
This manual describes how to install, test, operate, and maintain the
InfoServer 150 system.
Digital Equipment Corporation
Maynard, Massachussets

October 1991
The information in this document is subject to change without notice and should not be
construed as a commitment by Digital Equipment Corporation. Digital Equipment Corporation
assumes no responsibility for any errors that may appear in this document.
The software described in this document is furnished under a license and may be used or copied
only in accordance with the terms of such license.
No responsibility is assumed for the use or reliability of software on equipment that is not
supplied by Digital Equipment Corporation or its affiliated companies.
© Digital Equipment Corporation 1991.
All Rights Reserved.
The following are trademarks of Digital Equipment Corporation: DEC, DECnet, DECconnect,
DIGITAL, ULTRIX, VAX, VAXserver, VAXstation, VMS, VT, and the Digital logo.
The following are third-party trademarks:
Intel is a registered trademark of Intel Corporation.
MS–DOS is a registered trademark of Microsoft Corporation.
PostScript is a registered trademark of Adobe Systems Incorporated.
Xerox is a registered trademark of Xerox Corporation.
ZK5900
This document is available on CDROM.
This document was prepared using VAX DOCUMENT, Version 2.0.

Contents
Preface ..................................................... vii
1 InfoServer 150 System Overview
1.1 System Highlights . ................................... 1–2
1.2 Storage Devices . . . ................................... 1–3
1.2.1 Internal RZ Hard Disk . . . ........................... 1–3
1.2.2 RRD42 Compact Disc Drive .......................... 1–3
1.3 Console Terminal . . ................................... 1–4
2 Installing Your System
2.1 Choosing the Right Location for the System ................ 2–1
2.2 Unpacking and Inspecting System Components .............. 2–2
2.3 Connecting System Components ......................... 2–4
2.3.1 Identify the System Unit Ports and Connectors . .......... 2–4
2.3.2 Install the SCSI Terminators ......................... 2–5
2.3.3 Install the Connector Covers ......................... 2–5
2.3.4 Attach the Ethernet Terminators . . . ................... 2–6
2.3.5 Connect the System Unit Power Cord .................. 2–9
2.3.6 Connect a Console Terminal .......................... 2–10
2.3.7 Connect External Expansion Boxes . ................... 2–11
2.4 Starting the System ................................... 2–11
2.5 Loading a Compact Disc................................ 2–12
2.6 Unoading a Compact Disc . . . ........................... 2–16
2.7 Connecting the System to a Network . . . ................... 2–17
2.8 Turning Off the System ................................ 2–18
2.9 Bootstrapping the System . . . ........................... 2–18
2.9.1 Bootstrapping the System Automatically Without a
Console ......................................... 2–18
2.9.2 Starting the System with a Console, Only If Necessary . . . . . 2–18
2.9.3 Recovering from Bootstrap Failures . ................... 2–19
iii

3 Expanding Your System
3.1 Guidelines for Connecting Expansion Boxes ................ 3–1
3.2 Preparing Your System for an Expansion Box ............... 3–2
3.3 Unpacking an Expansion Box . . . ........................ 3–3
3.4 Connecting One Expansion Box . . ........................ 3–3
3.5 Connecting Two Expansion Boxes ........................ 3–5
3.6 RRD42 Compact Disc Expansion Box...................... 3–6
3.6.1 Verifying the SCSI ID Number on the RRD42 Expansion
Box............................................. 3–7
3.6.2 Resetting the SCSI ID on the Second RRD42 Expansion
Box............................................. 3–7
3.7 Preventive Maintenance................................ 3–8
4 Connecting to a Network
4.1 Connecting to a ThinWire Ethernet Network ................ 4–1
4.1.1 Check the Network Select Button ..................... 4–1
4.1.2 Verify Your ThinWire Ethernet Network Installation....... 4–2
4.1.3 Connect Your System to ThinWire Ethernet Cable . ....... 4–3
4.2 Creating a ThinWire Ethernet Work Group . ................ 4–4
4.2.1 Connecting Your System to a DECconnect Faceplate ....... 4–5
4.2.2 Troubleshooting the ThinWire Segment . ................ 4–6
4.3 Connecting to a Standard Ethernet Network ................ 4–9
4.3.1 Check the Network Select Button ..................... 4–9
4.3.2 Verify Your Standard Ethernet Network Installation ....... 4–9
4.3.3 Connect a Transceiver Cable to Your System ............. 4–10
4.3.4 Troubleshooting the Standard Ethernet Connection. ....... 4–10
5 Solving Problems
5.1 Checking Cable Connections ............................ 5–1
5.2 Using the Troubleshooting Table . ........................ 5–2
5.3 Interpreting Power-Up Error Messages .................... 5–5
5.4 Running Self-Tests .................................... 5–7
5.5 Displaying System Configuration Information ............... 5–8
5.6 Displaying Device Information . . . ........................ 5–9
5.7 Using the System Exerciser ............................. 5–10
5.8 Running Test Utilities for Expansion Boxes . ................ 5–12
5.9 Restarting the System after Running Tests . ................ 5–12
5.10 Reestablishing Console Parameters ....................... 5–12
5.11 Service Information . . . ................................ 5–13
5.12 Command Summary . . ................................ 5–13
iv

A SCSI ID Numbers
A.1 SCSI ID Default Settings ............................... A–1
A.2 Determining SCSI ID Numbers .......................... A–2
A.3 Setting RRD42 ID Numbers. . ........................... A–3
B System Specifications
Glossary
Index
Figures
1–1 InfoServer 150 System Enclosure. . . ................... 1–1
1–2 Front Panel of Embedded RRD42 Drive ................. 1–2
2–1 InfoServer 150 System Components . ................... 2–3
2–2 Ports and Connectors ............................... 2–4
2–3 Rear Panel with SCSI Terminators Installed . . . .......... 2–5
2–4 Connector Covers .................................. 2–6
2–5 Attaching T-connectors . . . ........................... 2–7
2–6 Connecting the Power Cord .......................... 2–9
2–7 Connecting the Console Terminal Cable ................. 2–10
2–8 Opening the Caddy ................................ 2–13
2–9 Loading the Disc .................................. 2–14
2–10 Loading the Caddy in the Drive ....................... 2–15
2–11 Ejecting the Caddy from the Drive. . ................... 2–16
2–12 Front Panel of RRD42 Drive ......................... 2–17
3–1 Removing SCSI Terminator .......................... 3–2
3–2 Connecting One RRD42 Expansion Box ................. 3–4
3–3 Connecting Two RRD42 Expansion Boxes ............... 3–6
3–4 RRD42 Real Panel ................................. 3–7
4–1 Position of Network Select Button and Ethernet Lights . . . . 4–2
4–2 Position of Halt Button . . ........................... 4–3
4–3 Attaching T-Connector with Cable Segment to BNC
Connector ........................................ 4–4
4–4 Connecting to DECconnect Faceplate................... 4–6
4–5 Disconnecting T-connector ........................... 4–8
v

4–6 Securing Standard Ethernet Connector . ................ 4–10
Tables
1Related Documents ................................ viii
3–1 SCSI Devices Self-Test Status Codes . . . ................ 3–8
5–1 Troubleshooting Basic System Problems ................ 5–3
5–2 Power-Up and Self-Test Display Identifiers .............. 5–6
5–3 Definition of Mnemonics ............................ 5–9
5–4 SET Command Summary............................ 5–13
5–5 TEST Command Summary . . ........................ 5–14
5–6 SHOW Command Summary. . ........................ 5–15
A–1 SCSI ID numbers for InfoServer 150 System ............. A–2
vi

Preface
Document Purpose
This document describes how to install, test, operate, and maintain the
InfoServer 150 system. This system is a general-purpose disk storage server
that quickly and efficiently transfers data between disks connected to the
server and remote network client systems.
For information on session management and software commands, see the
InfoServer System Operations Guide.
Intended Audience
This document addresses persons responsible for installing, operating, or
maintaining the InfoServer 150 system.
Document Structure
This document is organized as follows:
• Chapter 1 provides an overview of the InfoServer 150 system.
• Chapter 2 provides instructions for installing new InfoServer 150 systems.
• Chapter 3 provides information on installing and using add-on storage
devices and software-loading devices such as compact disc drives.
• Chapter 4 explains how to connect your system to a ThinWire Ethernet
or standard Ethernet network. The chapter also explains how to connect
systems into a simple ThinWire work group.
• Chapter 5 provides troubleshooting information.
Appendixes provide information on the following topics:
• Setting SCSI ID numbers on drives for custom configurations
• System specifications
The glossary explains technical terms used in the document.
vii

Related Documents
Consult your Digital sales representative for information on obtaining the
documents listed in Table 1.
Table 1 Related Documents
Titles Order Number
InfoServer Documentation
InfoServer System Operations Guide AA–PJXJA–TE
InfoServer 100 Installation and Owner’s Guide EK–DIS1K–IN
Client Documentation
VMS LAD Control Program Manual AA–PD1LB–TE
SCSI Device Documentation
RRD40 Disc Drive Owner’s Manual EK–RRD40–OM
RRD42 Disc Drive Owner’s Manual EK–RRD42–OM
TK50Z User’s Guide EK–OTK50–UG
DECconnect System Documentation
DECconnect System General Description EK–DECSY–GD
DECconnect System Requirements Evaluation Workbook EK–DECSY–EG
DECconnect System Installation and Verification Guide EK–DECSY–VG
DECconnect System Standalone ThinWire Networks:
Planning and Installation Guide EK–DECSY–TG
DECconnect System Planning and Configuration Guide EK–DECSY–CG
viii

Conventions
The following conventions are used in this document:
Return A key name is shown enclosed to indicate that you press a
key on the keyboard.
lO The on/off power switch on equipment. You press | to turn
power on, or O to turn power off.
red ink Red ink indicates information that you must enter from the
keyboard or a screen object that you must choose or click on.
For online versions of the book, user input is shown in bold.
boldface text Boldface text represents the introduction of a new term
defined the glossary or a phrase that is emphasized in text.
Boldface text is also used to show user input in online
versions of the book.
italic text Italic text represents information that can vary. (for
example, device).
UPPERCASE TEXT Uppercase letters indicate that you must enter a command
(for example, enter TEST 50).
numbers Unless otherwise noted, all numbers in the text are assumed
to be decimal. Nondecimal radixes—binary, octal, or
hexadecimal—are explicitly indicated.
ix

1
InfoServer 150 System Overview
The InfoServer 150 system is a general-purpose disk storage server that
quickly and efficiently transfers data between disks connected to the server
and remote network client systems. It provides users with a low-cost data
sharing capability that is flexible and easy to manage. Figure 1–1 shows the
InfoServer 150 system enclosure.
Figure 1–1 InfoServer 150 System Enclosure
Drive Labels
Compact
Disc Drive
MKV-X3105-91
The InfoServer system can support many diverse applications. For
example, VMS and other client systems can share software distribution and
documentation on compact discs connected to the server. Some VAX systems
can use the server to load their bootstrap program and then to perform a
VMS operating system installation from a compact disc in the server.
1–1

InfoServer 150 System Overview
1.1 System Highlights
1.1 System Highlights
Your InfoServer 150 system has many special features:
•Memory
The system comes with 4 MB of internal random access memory (RAM).
•ThinWire and standard Ethernet connectability
You can connect the InfoServer system to standard Ethernet or ThinWire
Ethernet work groups and networks but not to both types at the same
time.
•RRD42 compact disc drive
One RRD42 compact disc drive is mounted at the front on the server.
Figure 1–2 shows the drive’s front panel.
Figure 1–2 Front Panel of Embedded RRD42 Drive
JACK
HEADPHONE
LEVEL
CONTROL
DIMPLE FOR
ID NUMBER
BUSY
INDICATOR
EJECT
BUTTON EMERGENCY
EJECT
HOLE
CADDY INSERTION
SLOT
SHR−XR0062−90
LABEL
HEADPHONE
•Internal hard disk drive
The InfoServer 150 system includes one internal disk drive. This drive
stores server configuration information. The drive can also be served to
client nodes as writable storage. The InfoServer 150 system configuration
comes with an RZ23L drive; the InfoServer 150VXT system configuration
comes with an RZ24 drive.
•Self-sensing power supply
The system power supply accepts power inputs in the ranges of 100 Vac to
120 Vac and 200 Vac to 240 Vac, at 50 or 60 Hertz. A selection switch is
not needed.
1–2

InfoServer 150 System Overview
1.1 System Highlights
•Communication ports
A single DEC-423 asynchronous port (with MMJ connector for VT series
terminals) is provided as standard. You can use this port to connect a
terminal to the server to establish a local server management session.
(See Section 2.3.6 and the InfoServer System Operations Guide for more
information). This port is preset to run at 9600 baud, so any terminal
connected to this port must be set at 9600 baud.
•SCSI connectability
The small computer systems interconnect (SCSI) is an industry standard
for connecting mass storage devices.
•Add-on storage devices
You can purchase external expansion boxes to provide added storage
capability. These external boxes must be qualified by Digital in order to
meet the system requirements. You can connect up to 12 external drives to
the server, provided you observe SCSI bus length guidelines.
1.2 Storage Devices
The InfoServer 150 system uses the following internal storage devices:
• RZ23L hard disk (InfoServer 150 system configuration)
• RZ24 hard disk (InfoServer 150VXT system configuration)
• RRD42 compact disc drive
Figure 1–1 shows the location of the RRD42 compact disk drive in the system
enclosure.
1.2.1 Internal RZ Hard Disk
The server has one internal RZ drive. After the initial system bootstrap, the
server uses this drive as its primary bootstrap device. For the initial bootstrap,
the server uses the software compact disc supplied with the system.
The server also uses the RZ drive to save server characteristics and network
configuration information for use at subsequent server bootstraps.
1.2.2 RRD42 Compact Disc Drive
A compact disc is an optical, read-only storage media. The InfoServer 150
system comes with one RRD42 compact disc drive. The system can bootstrap
from compact disc, although the internal RZ hard disk drive is the primary
bootstrap device.
You can use the RRD42 drive for many purposes, such as software installation
and database storage.
1–3

InfoServer 150 System Overview
1.2 Storage Devices
You can increase the number of compact disc drives on your server by using
RRD42 expansion boxes. See Chapter 3 for information about these add-on
devices.
1.3 Console Terminal
The InfoServer 150 system is designed to require a minimum amount of system
management. You normally issue server commands by using a LAT terminal
session created to the InfoServer 150 system from a terminal server. In the
rare event that your server has problems communicating with client systems,
you can connect a terminal to MMJ port 1 on the back of the system unit (see
Section 2.3.6) and follow instructions in Chapter 5 to troubleshoot the problem.
The recommended console terminal is a VT300 series terminal.
1–4

2
Installing Your System
Setting up your InfoServer 150 system is easy. This chapter provides
step-by-step instructions on how to perform the following operations:
• Choose the right location for the system
• Unpack and inspect system components
• Connect system components
• Start the system
• Load and unload compact discs
• Connect the system to the network
• Turn off the system
• Bootstrap the system
• Recover from bootstrap failures
2.1 Choosing the Right Location for the System
Use the following checklist to keep your system operating at its best:
• Carefully read all installation instructions before you turn on the power.
• Keep the air well circulated to prevent excess heat and dust from
accumulating.
• Keep your equipment away from heaters, photocopiers, direct sunlight, and
abrasive particles.
• Before you set up your system, select a surface that is large enough to hold
the system unit. Your desk or work table is a good choice.
• Keep the area clean. Do not place food or liquid on or near your equipment,
and do not place your system unit directly on the floor. Dust and dirt will
damage the system components.
2–1

Installing Your System
2.1 Choosing the Right Location for the System
• Keep air vents clear on each side of the system unit for proper ventilation.
Do not place the system unit on its side. Blocking the air vents can cause
the system unit to overheat.
• Connect your system to a dedicated grounded circuit.
If you have several pieces of equipment that need to be plugged into a
power outlet, use a grounded power strip. Many power strips come with an
on/off switch and a surge protector.
Do not exceed the current capacity of the circuit.
• To avoid damaging equipment that has been moved inside from a cold
environment, let the equipment warm to room temperature before you turn
it on.
2.2 Unpacking and Inspecting System Components
The InfoServer 150 system is shipped in two boxes, one for hardware and
one for software. The larger box contains the InfoServer 150 hardware with
accessories and documentation. The smaller box, packed inside the larger box,
contains the software compact discs with licenses and instructions.
Figure 2–1 shows the components shipped for the InfoServer system. Check
the contents of the cartons against the shipping list provided. Expansion
devices are packed in separate cartons (Section 3.3), Chapter 3).
Note
Depending on how you set up your system, you might not use all the
components supplied with your system. Store any unused parts safely
for future use.
If You Move the System . . .
Always repack the system unit in its original packing material when moving
or relocating your system. This precaution will protect the hardware from
damage.
2–2

Installing Your System
2.2 Unpacking and Inspecting System Components
Figure 2–1 InfoServer 150 System Components
Documentation
Power Cord
ACCESSORIES:
Two Terminators and
One T-Connector (ThinWire Ethernet)
Connector Covers
SCSI Terminator
Loopback Connector (Standard Ethernet)
Server System Unit
MKV-X3126-91
2–3

Installing Your System
2.3 Connecting System Components
2.3 Connecting System Components
After unpacking, follow the instructions in Sections 2.3.1 through 2.3.7 to
connect system components.
2.3.1 Identify the System Unit Ports and Connectors
Figure 2–2 shows all the ports and connectors on the rear of an InfoServer
150 system. Take some time to become familiar with the ports and connectors.
Symbols (called icons) identify each port and connector you will use when
installing your system. Note that there are two SCSI ports. SCSI port A is at
the upper left and SCSI port B is next to it.
Figure 2–2 Ports and Connectors
On/Off Switch
System AC Power
SCSI Port
Standard Ethernet
Connector
Standard Ethernet Light
Network Select Button
ThinWire Ethernet Light
ThinWire Ethernet
Connector
Halt Button
MMJ Ports
Break Enable Switch
(For Field Service Use Only)
Diagnostic LEDs
1MMJ Port
(Not Used)
MKV-X3127-91
Note
Not all of the connectors shown are usable. In particular, MMJ ports 2
and 3 and the modem port (to the left of MMJ port 1) are not supported
by the server.
2–4

Installing Your System
2.3 Connecting System Components
2.3.2 Install the SCSI Terminators
If you do not intend to connect additional drives to your system, be sure that
the SCSI terminators are installed on the SCSI ports at the rear of the system
unit, as shown in Figure 2–3.
Figure 2–3 Rear Panel with SCSI Terminators Installed
SCSI Terminator
MKV-X3107-91
2.3.3 Install the Connector Covers
You system comes with two connector covers to protect the unused connectors
on the rear panel of the system unit, as shown in Figure 2–4
2–5

Installing Your System
2.3 Connecting System Components
Figure 2–4 Connector Covers
1
2
MKV-X3109-91
2.3.4 Attach the Ethernet Terminators
You must connect the T-connector, two Ethernet terminators, and the loopback
connector (Figure 2–1) to the system unit, so that you can run diagnostic tests
to verify the Ethernet circuits.
Note
The system does not boot if the power-up self-test detects an Ethernet
error.
2–6