Xyplex MAXserver 1600 Instruction Manual

Preface
About this Guide
This guide explains how to place a MAXserver model 1600 or 1608 terminal server into operation. The
guide covers hardware installation, cabling, configuration, and a description of basic server commands.
Organization
This guide is organized as follows:
Chapter 1 (Introduction) -- Describes the functions and capabilities of the MAXserver 1600 and
1608 terminal servers. This chapter also describes software requirements, and explains how the
MAXserver 1600 or 1608 stores its configuration data (parameters).
Chapter 2 (Getting Started) -- Describes the hardware installation procedures and explains how to
initialize connected devices. By following the instructions in this chapter, you should be able to place
a MAXserver 1600 or 1608 terminal server into operation without making a service call.
Chapter 3 (Troubleshooting) -- Describes what to do if you encounter a problem during the
MAXserver 1600 or 1608 installation or while the server is in operation. This chapter explains how
the MAXserver 1600/1608 indicates errors and how to reset the unit.
Chapter 4 (Configuration Menu) -- Explains how to access the ROM configuration menu and
describes the menu options.
Appendix A (Specifications) -- Provides technical specifications for the MAXserver 1600 and 1608.
Appendix B (Cabling Considerations) -- Describes cabling considerations and options you should be
aware of when installing MAXserver 1600 and 1608 terminal servers.
Appendix C (Network Configurations) -- Describes and illustrates supported network topologies.
vii

Related Publications
The following publications are useful to persons who install and manage Xyplex terminal servers. To
obtain copies, contact your Xyplex sales representative.
Manual Description
SIMM Installation
Service Instructions Explains how to install MAXserver 1600/1608 Single Inline Memory Modules (SIMMs). (SIMMs should only be installed by
qualified personnel.)
Software Installation Guide
-UNIX
- VAX/VMS
-MAXserver Loader
These guides describe the procedures and tools you use to install
and configure Xyplex software on UNIX, VAX/VMS, and
MAXserver
loader platforms.
TCP/IP-LAT Documentation
Set; includes:
Software Management
Guide Describes the configuration, setup, and management of Xyplex software packages.
User's Guide Describes the commands you use at the terminal server to control
and monitor server operation, connect and manage server sessions,
configure ports, sessions, etc.
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Chapter 1
Introduction
1.1 About the MAXserver 1600 and 1608
The MAXserver 1600 and 1608 are stand-alone terminal servers that provide:
Serial Ports -- The MAXserver 1600 provides16 asynchronous serial communication ports with RJ-45
interfaces. The MAXserver 1608 provides eight ports. (See Figure 2-4 for connector signal assignments.)
Ethernet Interfaces -- A 15-pin standard Ethernet Attachment Unit Interface (AUI) connector and a
"ThinWire" Ethernet interface (BNC connector). (See Figure B-1 for AUI connector signal assignments.)
TCP/IP and LAT Protocol Support -- The MAXserver 1600 and 1608 provide concurrent support for
the DEC Local Area Transport (LAT®) and TCP/IP protocols.
Memory Card -- An optional Memory card, from which the unit can load its operating software. Two
memory card types are currently available from Xyplex:
-“Flash” cards, which are readable/writeable and can be upgraded to a newer software version
-“ROM” (or "OTP") cards, which are read-only and cannot be updated
The MAXserver 1600 and 1608 can also load software from the Memory card, over the network, to
MAXserver 1100/1120, 1500/1520, 1600/1608, and 1800/1820 terminal server units.
Network Software Loading -- If you order a MAXserver 1600 or 1608 without a Memory card, the
unit loads its operating software from a network host called a load server. The load server is typically
a UNIXTM or VAX/VMSTM system. Alternatively, a Xyplex MAXserver Manager card (MAXman) or
MAXserver 1800/1820 terminal server can be used. The load server downloads a software image to
the MAXserver 1600/1608, over the network, whenever the terminal server is powered on or re-
initialized. The load server can support other devices as well.
Expandable Memory -- The MAXserver 1600 and 1608 are shipped with either 1 MB or 3 MB of factory
installed memory. The memory can be expanded in 2 MB increments, up to 5 MB, using SIMM memory
modules. SIMMs should be installed by qualified personnel only. To upgrade your MAXserver 1600 or
1608, contact your Xyplex sales representative. The order code for a 2 MByte SIMM memory upgrade kit
is MX-500-5744. (If you only need installation instructions, the order code is MX-420-0608.)
Concurrent Flow Control and Modem Control Support -- The MAXserver 1600 and 1608 provide
concurrent support for RTS/CTS flow control signals and modem control signals on all 16 ports. New
adaptors are available to support cabling to MAXserver 1600/1608 ports when these signals are used.
In most cases, the MAXserver 1600/1608 can also use existing MAXserver 1000-series cabling, if
support for the new signals is not required. (Refer to Section B.3.3 for more information.)
Figure 2-3 shows a front view of the MAXserver 1600/1608. Figure 2-2 shows a rear view.
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Introduction
1.1.1 Supported Communication Speeds
The MAXserver 1600 and 1608 support communication speeds of 110 bps to 38.4 Kbps.
1.2 Software Requirements
The MAXserver 1600 and 1608 require Xyplex TCP/IP-LAT software, Release 4.1 or greater. The units
are configured at the factory to load software from a Memory card, if one is inserted in the card slot. If a
card is not present, the unit requests software from a network load server, which can be:
•A MAXserver 1600 or 1608 that is equipped with a Memory card
•A MAXserver Manager (MAXMAN) card or MAXserver 1800/1820 terminal server
•A VAX/VMS host system, from which the unit can load via DEC Maintenance Operations
Protocol (MOP)
• A UNIX system running:
- Bootstrap protocol (BOOTP) and Trivial File Transfer Protocol (TFTP), or:
- Reverse Address Resolution Protocol (RARP) and TFTP
The load server downloads a software image to the MAXserver 1600 or 1608, over the network, whenever
the unit is powered on or re-initialized. By default, the MAXserver 1600/1608 requests software from each
type of load server, until a server responds with a software load offer. (Section 3.2 provides a detailed
description of the software loading process.)
If you need to install software on a network load server, refer to the Software Installation Guide for the type
of load server you plan to use.
1.2.1 Changing the Software Loading Method
You can change the method the MAXserver 1600 or 1608 uses to load its software. For example, you can
configure the unit to load exclusively from a specific type of load server; or, you can configure the unit to load
from the Memory card only. You use the ROM Configuration menu to change the software loading method.
(Refer to Chapter 4 for more information.) Alternatively, you can use DEFINE SERVER commands to change
the software loading method. (Refer to the TCP/IP-LAT software documentation for more information.)
1.3 Parameter Storage
The MAXserver 1600 and 1608 are configured at the factory to store configuration data (parameters)
locally, in Non-volatile storage (NVS). As an option, you can configure the unit to load parameters from a
network host, called a parameter server, using the ROM Configuration Menu. (Refer to Chapter 4 for
more information.) Alternatively, you can use DEFINE SERVER commands to change the parameter
loading method. (Refer to the TCP/IP-LAT software documentation for more information.)
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Chapter 2
Getting Started
2.1 Overview
This chapter explains how to install a MAXserver 1600 and place it into operation. (The procedures for
the MAXserver 1608 are identical.) The basic installation consists of these procedures:
1. Unpack the MAXserver 1600, check the contents against the packing list, and inspect for possible
damage during shipping.
2. Mount the MAXserver 1600 in a standard 19" rack or place it on a suitable flat surface (19" x 15").
3. If the MAXserver 1600 is equipped with a Memory card, insert the Memory card into the card
slot on the front of the unit.
Xyplex recommends that you wear a grounded wrist strap when you insert the card. If none is
available, ground yourself by placing one hand on the MAXserver 1600 (or another grounded
object), before you insert the Memory card, to prevent static from being discharged into the
MAXserver.
If the unit is not equipped with a Memory card, verify that Release 4.1 or greater of Xyplex
TCP/IP-LAT software is installed in the network. (Refer to Section 1.2, Software
Requirements.)
If you are installing a MAXserver 1600 that is equipped with a Memory card, as well as units
that are not, install the unit with the Memory card first. That unit can then serve as a load
server for the other units.
4. Connect the Ethernet transceiver cable or ThinWire network cable to the MAXserver 1600.
5. Connect the power cord to rear of the MAXserver 1600, then to an AC power outlet, and observe
the front panel lights.
6. Connect the serial device cables to the MAXserver 1600 and to the devices (terminals, PCs,
etc.), and initialize the devices.
The following sections provide detailed installation instructions.
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Getting Started
2.2 Unpack and Inspect the MAXserver 1600
Follow these steps:
1. Carefully unpack the MAXserver 1600 shipping carton.
2. Inspect the contents and make sure that you received all parts listed on the shipping order.
3. Place all packing materials back into the shipping carton and save the carton. (If you need to
return the unit to Xyplex or your distributor, you should return it in the original carton.)
4. If the MAXserver 1600 has been damaged in shipping or any parts are missing, notify your Xyplex
representative or distributor immediately.
2.3 Place MAXserver 1600 on Flat Surface or Mount on Rack
Select a location for the MAXserver 1600 that meets the following requirements:
Adequate Space -- A standard 19" rack or a 19" x 15" flat, stable surface such as a shelf or desktop
must be available. You can locate the MAXserver 1600 in a variety of environments, including an
office or computer room, provided the environmental requirements are met.
To reduce the possibility of dust entering the MAXserver 1600 and to allow easy inspection of the
unit's front panel lights, make sure that the MAXserver is located at an optimum distance (preferably
not less than 18 inches/45 centimeters) from the floor.
Environment -- Do not choose a location where the unit will be exposed to direct sunlight or
subjected to vibration. Also, the MAXserver 1600 must be installed in an environment with 20% to
80% humidity, noncondensing, 0° - 40° C (32°-113° F).
Place the MAXserver on the flat, stable surface you have chosen for its location or use the instructions in
Section 2.3.1 to mount it in a standard 19" rack.
Do not remove the MAXserver's "feet".
Do not place an object on top of the MAXserver 1600
that might block the air flow through the unit.
☞
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Getting Started
2.3.1 Rack Mount Installation (optional)
Rack mount installation is easier when performed by two persons -- one person holding the MAXserver
1600 while another secures the mounting bolts with a Phillips-head screwdriver. (Threaded clips and bolts
are supplied with the unit).
Complete these steps:
1. Locate a mounting position on the rack that allows at least one inch of space above and below
the MAXserver 1600.
2. Secure the MAXserver 1600 to the mounting rack using the supplied bolts, as shown in Figure 2-1.
If the rack is not threaded, use the threaded clips supplied with the server.
Rack
Threaded clips -- optional; use
if the rack is not threaded.
Figure 2-1. Mounting MAXserver 1600 in Rack
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Getting Started
2.4 Insert the Memory Card (if Supplied)
If the unit is supplied with a Memory card, insert the card into the card slot on the front panel.
Xyplex recommends that you wear a grounded wrist strap when you insert the
card. If none is available, ground yourself by placing one hand on the
MAXserver 1600 (or another grounded object), before you insert the Memory
card, to prevent static from being discharged into the MAXserver.
☞
Markings on the Memory card indicate which end you insert into the MAXserver 1600. (As another
indication, the end you insert has two rows of small square holes.)
2.5 Connect the Ethernet Interface
Connect the Ethernet transceiver cable or ThinWire network cable to the appropriate connector on the rear
of the MAXserver 1600 (see Figure 2-2). When powered up, the MAXserver 1600 selects the interface on
which it detects network activity1.
110 - 240 VAC ~
1.0 - 0,5A 50 - 60 Hz 12345678 910 11 12 13 14 15 16 ETHERNET
ThinWire Ethernet
BNC Connector Standard Ethernet (AUI) Connector
RJ-45 Serial Port Connectors.
(On a MAXserver 1608, only
Ports 1 - 8 can be used.)
Figure 2-2. MAXserver 1600/1608, Rear View
Standard (AUI) Connection -- Install the Ethernet cable by plugging the male cable connector into
the 15-pin female AUI socket on the rear of the MAXserver 1600 and fastening the slide latch. (The
standard 15-pin AUI connector signal assignments are shown in Figure B-1.)
ThinWire Connection -- Install the Ethernet cable by plugging it into the ThinWire connector on the
rear of the MAXserver 1600.
1The MAXserver 1600 can be configured to work exclusively with an AUI or ThinWire interface. Refer
to Section 4.3.2 for more information.
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Getting Started
2.6 Connect the Power Cable
You do not need to set the MAXserver 1600 for 115V or 230V operation. The power supply automatically
adapts to the input voltage.
A grounded AC power outlet should be located within six feet of the back of the MAXserver 1600. You
can use a UL-approved, 3-prong extension cord if necessary, provided it has sufficient current and voltage
capacity. (The cord must have sufficient capacity for the input power, as specified in Appendix A). AC
power must meet the criteria listed in Appendix A.
Complete these steps:
1. Plug the AC line cord (supplied) into the AC power receptacle on the rear of the MAXserver
1600. (See Figure 2-2 for the location of the power receptacle.)
2. Plug the other end of the cord into a grounded 3-prong AC power outlet (or a UL-approved
extension cord with sufficient capacity that is plugged into a suitable outlet).
3. When you apply power, the MAXserver 1600 performs a self test of its circuitry and then proceeds
to load its software. When the unit has finished loading its software, the RUN light flashes slowly
and the LAN light flashes as Ethernet packets are received. (Figure 2-3 shows the locations of
the lights on the front panel.)
If, after several minutes, the front panel lights do not behave as indicated, refer to Chapter 3,
Troubleshooting.
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Getting Started
XYPLEX MAXSERVER 1600
TERMINAL SERVER
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16
RUN LAN CONSOLECARD
X
Ports 1 - 16 -- These lights indicate port activity.
Flashing = activity associated with port.
ON = port connection established.
OFF = no port connection established.
Reset switch -- Press once to put the unit in reset state.
Press again to re-initialize the unit.
CONSOLE light -- ON when someone is logged on to the
unit's console port via the network. Flashes if permanent
parameter changes have not yet been stored. (Do not power
off the MAXserver 1600 while this light is flashing.)
LAN light -- Flashes when the unit receives Ethernet
packets. (OFF when not connected to network, or network
is faulty.)
RUN light -- ON when unit is reset; flashes rapidly when
unit executes firmware code; flashes slowly when software
is loaded (RUN state).
CARD light -- ON when Memory card is being accessed. Do
not remove the card or power off the unit while this light
is ON.
Memory Card slot
Eject Button
Figure 2-3. MAXserver 1600/1608 Front Panel
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Getting Started
2.7 Connect Serial Device Cables
Connect the serial device cables to the 8-pin RJ-45 jacks on the rear of the MAXserver. For a MAXserver
1608, connect cables to Ports 1 - 8 only. For a MAXserver 1600, you can connect cables to Ports 1 - 16.
The signal assignments of the 8-pin jacks are shown in Figure 2-4:
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 Pin
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
Signal
RNG/CTS (input)
DTR (output)
XMT (output)
XMTGND
RCVGND
RCV (input)
DSR/DCD (input) (discussed in Section B.3.3)
RTS (output)
Figure 2-4. Serial Device Connector (RJ-45) Signal Assignments
Note
MAXserver 1600 serial ports provide concurrent support for RTS/CTS flow
control and modem control. Refer to Section 5.6 of the Software Management
Guide for information about setting up flow control; refer to Section 5.5 for
information about setting up modem control.
Xyplex recommends that you label all cables with the name of the device to which it connects and the
number of the port you have assigned to it. This way, if the cable is removed for any reason, you can
reconnect it easily. If the device cables have not yet been prepared with the correct RJ-45 connectors,
refer to Appendix B, "Cabling Considerations".
2.8 Additional Considerations for an Internet Environment
If you plan to use the MAXserver 1600 in an Internet environment, you must define addressing and
identification characteristics to enable Internet hosts to recognize the MAXserver 1600 as a member of the
network. Refer to Chapter 3 of the Software Management Guide for information about configuring the
MAXserver 1600 for an Internet environment.
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Getting Started
2.9 Initialize Connected Devices
The MAXserver 1600 is shipped with a default configuration (parameter) file that sets all serial ports to
operate with asynchronous ASCII terminal devices. If you are not connecting keyboard terminals or PCs
running terminal emulation software, proceed to Section 2.9.2.
2.9.1 Terminals and Other Keyboard Devices
MAXserver 1600 serial ports are configured to adjust, automatically, to the communication speed
(110 - 38.4K bps) of a connected terminal that is set up as follows:
• 8 bits, No Parity
-- or --
•7 bits, Even Parity
When your terminal is properly connected to the MAXserver 1600, turn its power ON, then press
<RETURN> (or ENTER) a few times -- until the MAXserver 1600 recognizes the terminal. When the
MAXserver 1600 responds, you see the following message on your screen:
Welcome to the Xyplex Terminal Server.
Enter username>
Type your name, your initials, or a nickname, then press RETURN again. You can type up to 16
characters (numbers or letters). This name is your identifier during this session. If you choose, you can
change it each time you make a connection to the MAXserver 1600. It will be shown whenever you or
any other person on the network requests information about who is connected to the MAXserver 1600.
After you enter your username, the MAXserver 1600 returns the local command prompt:
Xyplex>
The MAXserver 1600 is now ready to accept any of the commands described in the TCP/IP-LAT Software
User's Guide. You can obtain on-screen information about the terminal server commands by typing HELP
and pressing <RETURN>:
Xyplex>HELP
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Getting Started
2.9.2 Connecting Other Devices
If you are connecting a modem, printer, plotter, host computer, or data switch, refer to the Xyplex TCP/IP-
LAT System Documentation for instructions as follows:
Ethernet Network
Terminal Server
Printer
Serial Printers, Plotters -- Refer to the section entitled "Shared Printer Services Setup" in Chapter 4
of the Software Management Guide.
Ethernet Network
Terminal Server
Modem
Modems, Data Switches -- Refer to the section entitled “Modem Control Operation” in Chapter 5 of
the Software Management Guide.
Ethernet Network
Terminal Server
Host Computer Port
Host Ports -- Refer to the section entitled “Host Setup for Local Access Connections” in Chapter 3 of
the Software Management Guide.
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Getting Started
2.10 Formatting/Updating a Memory Card
Flash Memory cards are readable/writeable and can be updated to a newer software version. When
you order a new Flash card from Xyplex, the card contains a software image. Future TCP/IP-LAT
software versions will be available on FLASH and ROM cards; you can use either type of card to
update a Flash card.
Before you can update the software image on a Flash Memory card, you must format the card by
issuing the following command while in privileged mode. (SET SERVER is optional.)
[SET SERVER] FORMAT CARD
You should see these messages ---
xxxxx format. WARNING: all data will be lost.
Press <RETURN> to start format, any other character to abort
-- where xxxxx indicates the vendor of the utility that was last used to format the card (e.g., Xyplex).
After you press <RETURN> this message appears:
Format in progress, please wait. xx% complete
If your terminal type is HARDCOPY, you do not see the "%complete" display. Formatting requires
between 1 and 3 minutes, depending on the network traffic load. (If you need to abort the formatting
process, press <BREAK>. Afterwards, the card will be unusable until you format it.) Once the formatting
is complete, the "% complete" message is replaced with this message:
Format complete
Using MOP/XMOP to Update the Card
To update the card using MOP or XMOP, use this command while in privileged mode:
[SET SERVER] GET CARD LOAD FILE "path/mx1500.sys" ADDRESS ethernet-address
The value "path/mx1500.sys" specifies the software load image name and its path on the load host; you
can use a maximum of 63 characters. The filename on the host must be mx1500.sys; if you enter a
different value, the MAXserver 1600 will generate an error message.
The Ethernet address identifies the load host where the newer software version resides. If you enter an
Ethernet address with the Xyplex header (08-00-87), the MAXserver uses the Xyplex proprietary protocol
(XMOP). For other Ethernet addresses, the unit uses MOP.
The loader file, mcffs1.sys, is automatically copied to the card when you issue a GET CARD LOAD
FILE command.
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