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Alpha AM-7000 Owner's Manual

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DSM-00220-00

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  • Page 1 $/3+$ $/3+$ $/3+$ $/3+$ $/3+$ $/3+$ $/3+$ $/3+$ $/3+$ $/3+$ $/3+$ $/3+$ AM-7000 Computer Owner's $/3+$ $/3+$ Manual $/3+$ $/3+$ $/3+$ $/3+$ $/3+$ $/3+$ $/3+$ $/3+$ $/3+$ $/3+$ $/3+$ $/3+$ DSM-00220-00...
  • Page 2 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, AM-3500-7000, 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.

  • Page 3: Table Of Contents

    Table of Contents CHAPTER 1 -INTRODUCING THE AM-7000 COMPUTER ............1-1 ABOUT THIS BOOK ........................1-2 Graphics Conventions ........................1-2 SYSTEM FEATURES ........................1-3 AM-319-20 System Board ......................1-3 AM-176-10 Board ........................1-4 Processor ............................1-4 Memory ............................1-4 Cache Memory..........................1-4 CMOS Menu Setup........................
  • Page 4 EXPANDING YOUR COMPUTER ....................2-13 GETTING ASSISTANCE......................2-13 CHAPTER 3 -GETTING STARTED....................3-1 BOOTING THE COMPUTER ......................3-1 AM-7000 FLASH MEMORY BOOTING OPTION................3-2 AM-7000 CMOS SETUP PROCEDURE ..................3-2 AM-7000 Initialization Routine..................... 3-2 CMOS Menu Options ........................3-2 Saving the CMOS Settings ......................3-5 Important Note..........................
  • Page 5 Passwords............................. 5-2 Organizing the Disk ........................5-2 Adding New Accounts........................5-3 MODIFYING THE SYSTEM INITIALIZATION FILE..............5-4 Defining the AM-7000 Parallel Ports..................... 5-5 Adding Jobs ..........................5-6 Changing User Memory ........................ 5-7 ANALYZING THE DISK ........................ 5-8 The REDALL Command....................... 5-9 The DSKANA Command......................
  • Page 6 Workstation Connection Cables....................A-6 RS-232 RJ-45 TO DB-25 CABLES FOR TERMINALS AND PRINTERS ........A-7 PARALLEL PRINTER PORTS ...................... A-8 AM-7000 UPS STATUS PORT ...................... A-9 ETHERNET RJ-45 10 AND 10 / 100 BASET CONNECTOR ............A-9 10/100BaseT Topology and Cabling..................... A-9 APPENDIX B -THE CONTROL CHARACTERS................
  • Page 7 Page APPENDIX G -FLASH MEMORY BOOTING OPTION DETAILS ..........G-1 FLASH MEMORY ORGANIZATION.................... G-1 FLASH MEMORY OPERATION....................G-1 BOOTING FROM THE AM-7000 FLASH MEMORY..............G-2 STANDARD AM7000.INI CONTENTS..................G-2 ENHANCING FLASH MEMORY CONTENTS................G-3 File NETWRK..........................G-3 File RESOLV..........................G-3 File CONFIG.
  • Page 8 Table A-5: RS-232 RJ-45 to DB-25 Connector Signals ............... A-7 Table A-6: Centronics Interface Cabling Signal Pinouts ..............A-8 Table A-7: AM-7000 UPS Status Port Signal Pinouts ................ A-9 Table A-8: 10/100BaseT (RJ-45) Connector Signals................A-10 AM-7000 Computer Owner's Manual, Rev. 00...

  • Page 9: Chapter 1 -Introducing The Am-7000 Computer

    The AM-7000, shown in Figure 1-1 below, is housed in a compact enclosure that fits neatly next to a desk. Figure 1-1: AM-7000 in Deskside Chassis...

  • Page 10: About This Book

    Chapter 3 discusses turning on and resetting the computer, using the terminal keyboard, diskettes, streamer tape, DAT tape, 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.

  • Page 11: System Features

    There are a number of physical components that go into the construction of your AM-7000 computer which provide 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.

  • Page 12: Am-176-10 Board

    AM-7000 computers have an MC68060 processor running at 75MHz. Memory The AM-176-10 board in the AM-7000 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- 7000 supports a minimum of 32MB and a maximum of 512MB.

  • Page 13: Scsi Configuration

    * SCSI ID 7 is reserved for the host. SCSI Configuration The AM-7000 contains a Wide SCSI-2 bus. The Wide SCSI bus offers higher performance when used with wide SCSI-2 or Ultra SCSI drives. Using the proper adapters, you can attach both wide and narrow devices—disk drives, tape drives, and SCSI diskette drives—to the Wide bus.
  • Page 14 The AM-441 Wide SCSI Bus Repeater attaches to the end of the AM-7000’s internal SCSI cable. In effect, it starts a new physical bus: from the repeater, you can have up to ten additional feet of bus cable.

  • Page 15: Scsi Dispatcher Software

    The AM-7000 includes new SCSI dispatcher software, which controls all SCSI devices in the system. The SCSI dispatcher is set up in the system initialization command file. The following AM-7000 specific commands are added to the INI file after the JOBALC statements, but before the first DEVTBL statement: PCI7K.LIT...

  • Page 16: Serial I/O Capability

    Serial I/O cabling information. Four High-Speed Parallel Printer Ports AM-7000 computers have four on-board, high-speed, parallel printer ports that use the SEP.DVR interface driver. The ports are Centronics compatible and use 25-pin shielded connectors. See Appendix A for the 25-pin parallel connector signal pinouts.

  • Page 17: Network Hardware

    The following SYSTEM statements are incorporated into the system initialization command file to configure your Ethernet hardware described above: If you are using the 10/100 Base T Ethernet port on the AM-7000 CPU board, as recommended above, use this statement: SYSTEM DVR:PCILSI.LDV/N/H/T:100/R:100...

  • Page 18: Front Panel Status Display

    CMOS protection against corruption by a malfunctioning program. Rear I/O Panel The AM-7000 rear panel supports a minimum of four DB-25 parallel printer ports and seven paddle board SIO expansion slots. The main system board provides four on-board RJ-45 serial ports, a 9-pin UPS port, and Ethernet connectors.

  • Page 19: Service Information

    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. Should you wish to arrange for factory warranty service for your equipment, you should obtain a Return Authorization Number from the Alpha Micro Technical Assistance Center.

  • Page 20: For Further Assistance

    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.

  • Page 21: Chapter 2 -Installation

    Turning off the computer Expanding your computer Your Alpha Micro VAR can assist you with setting up, expanding, or servicing your computer. UNPACKING GUIDELINES Unpack the computer and save all packing material and cartons in case you ever need to transport the computer.

  • Page 22: Reporting Shipping Damage

    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.

  • Page 23: Overview Of Installation Procedures

    The next two sections describe the front and rear panel connectors, controls, and indicators. Front Panel Controls and Indicators .Figure 2-1, on the next page, shows the front panel on the AM-7000 deskside chassis. The panel has the following controls and indicators: The Power Indicator light is always lit when power is supplied to the computer.

  • Page 24: Am-7000 Rear I/O Panel Configurations

    Chapter 8, "Status Display Codes." AM-7000 Rear I/O Panel Configurations The types and number of connectors on the rear panel of your AM-7000 computer will vary depending on the equipment included with your order. The illustration below shows the standard AM-7000 rear panel configuration: AM-7000 Computer Owner's Manual, Rev.

  • Page 25: Figure 2-3: Am-7000 Rear Panel Configuration (Deskside Chassis)

    Installation Page 2-5 SCSI PRINT PORT 3 PRINT PORT 2 PRINT PORT 1 PRINT PORT 0 Figure 2-3: AM-7000 Rear Panel Configuration (Deskside Chassis) AM-7000 Computer Owner's Manual, Rev. 00...

  • Page 26: Preparing The Site

    The mounting feet give it adequate ventilation space below. Do not place the computer on a carpet which can block the air intakes on the bottom of the system. AM-7000 Computer Owner's Manual, Rev. 00...

  • Page 27: Environmental Specifications

    We recommend a low impedance power conditioner be used to filter out these power problems. Alpha Microsystems can provide the approved power conditioner type. Ask your VAR for further details.

  • Page 28: Power Supply Ac Voltage And Receptacle

    115 Volt AC at 5 Amps, or 230 Volt AC at 3 Amps Additional outlets are required for each I/O chassis and/or peripheral connected to the computer. Alpha Micro computers come with a standard six-foot power cord. If this is not long enough, be sure any extension cords used are rated for the full 15 Amps—otherwise, the full voltage will not reach your...

  • Page 29: Turning The Computer On

    Although you can set the operator terminal at any port, we strongly recommend that you use Port #0, as you can edit the CMOS settings only at this terminal. AM-7000 Computer Owner's Manual, Rev. 00...

  • Page 30: Setting The Terminal's Baud Rate And Parameters

    Plug one end of the finished cable into the proper connector on the back of the terminal and the other end into the appropriate connector on the back of the CPU chassis. Alpha Micro cables are labeled at each end to indicate which end plugs into the CPU and which end goes to the terminal.

  • Page 31: Initial Testing

    If nothing appears on the status display or the terminal screen after a minute's wait, contact your Alpha Micro VAR. You may need to follow the instructions below to install the operating system onto your System Disk.

  • Page 32: The Warm Boot Monitor

    1. Make sure all users have exited all programs and are logged off the computer. 2. Remove any backup media (such as diskettes) from the computer. 3. Turn off all external devices such as printers and terminals. 4. Press the AC power button on the front panel. AM-7000 Computer Owner's Manual, Rev. 00...

  • Page 33: Expanding Your Computer

    Page 2-13 EXPANDING YOUR COMPUTER Your Alpha Micro VAR can assist you with setting up, expanding, or servicing your computer. Once your computer is configured with the basic components, you may want to install any additional subsystems purchased with your basic computer. Or, you may want to change your basic configuration to add more users, change memory allocations, etc.

  • Page 34: Chapter 3 -Getting Started

    The last command in any system initialization file is MEMORY 0. When you see MEMORY 0 on the operator terminal, and the front panel status display changes to blank or 0, the computer has finished booting. AM-7000 Computer Owner's Manual, Rev. 00...

  • Page 35: Am-7000 Flash Memory Booting Option

    "CC" while the boot code tests CMOS RAM to ensure that it is working. If the RAM test fails, the boot code displays "CF" on the front panel and the system halts. If this is the case, contact Alpha Micro's Technical Assistance Center.
  • Page 36 This parameter selects which alternate device number to boot from. Valid unit numbers are 0-15. The setup routine will not allow you to select an invalid unit number. You should know how many devices AM-7000 Computer Owner's Manual, Rev. 00...
  • Page 37 Display Console Boot Messages When set to Yes, this option displays status messages on the operator terminal during booting. These messages are equivalent to each of the front panel status codes normally displayed during booting, and AM-7000 Computer Owner's Manual, Rev. 00...

  • Page 38: Saving The Cmos Settings

    These device names are defined in the system initialization file. Alpha Micro device names conform to a specific format to make it easy for you and the computer to refer to the same piece of equipment. All device names contain three letters and a number, and end with a colon (:).

  • Page 39: The System Disk

    System Disk on the hard drive. In such a case, the streamer device is not called DSK0: after the warm boot. Instead, the warm boot will transfer that name to a disk device you specified when you created the special warm boot monitor on the tape. AM-7000 Computer Owner's Manual, Rev. 00...

  • Page 40: Disk Accounts

    Page 3-7 DISK ACCOUNTS Disk accounts are an organizational feature your Alpha Micro computer uses to help you keep track of your data. Instead of making you search through one enormous list of files for the specific one you're looking for, the AMOS operating system is designed to group files into "accounts."...

  • Page 41: The Terminal Keyboard

    The keyboard is very similar to a standard typewriter's, but it has a few extra keys with special functions. Take a moment to look at your keyboard so you can easily locate these keys later: AM-7000 Computer Owner's Manual, Rev. 00...

  • Page 42: Correcting Typing Mistakes

    You can: RETURN Press to erase single characters. RUBT OU U R T Type CTRL to move the cursor to the beginning of the line. Type CTRL to tell AMOS to ignore the line. AM-7000 Computer Owner's Manual, Rev. 00...

  • Page 43: A Word About Diskettes

    If you haven't used diskettes before, take a few minutes to look at one before you insert it in the drive. The figure below illustrates the type of diskettes supported by the AM-7000 system. AM-7000 Computer Owner's Manual, Rev. 00...

  • Page 44: Figure 3-1: 3.5" Diskette

    Never change diskettes if the drive is busy; doing so could damage the data on the diskettes. There is a small light on the front of the disk drive that is lit if the drive is busy. AM-7000 Computer Owner's Manual, Rev. 00...

  • Page 45: Mounting Diskettes

    There are five different ¼" streaming tape drives available for your computer: the AM-626, AM-627, AM-628, AM-629,and AM-650. For information on transferring data to and from streaming tape, see the System Commands Reference Manual. For information on cleaning tape drive heads, see Chapter 6. AM-7000 Computer Owner's Manual, Rev. 00...

  • Page 46: Tape Capacity

    Can also read QIC-120 15 track, and QIC-24 9-track formats. AM-628: Reads and writes in QIC-2GB 42 track, QIC-1000 30-track, QIC-525 26-track, and QIC-150 18-track format. Can also read QIC-120 15-track and QIC-24 9-track formats. AM-7000 Computer Owner's Manual, Rev. 00...

  • Page 47: Loading And Unloading Tape Cartridges

    2. The tape inserts as shown below. As you insert the tape through the tape door, the DAT drive takes over the load operation by mechanically pulling the tape cartridge into the load position, just like your home VCR. AM-7000 Computer Owner's Manual, Rev. 00...

  • Page 48: Figure 3-3: Dat Tape Drive

    4. To unload the tape cartridge from the DAT drive, press the tape eject button, which is shown above. The drive will automatically eject the tape. For information on maintaining the DAT drive, see Chapter 6. AM-7000 Computer Owner's Manual, Rev. 00...

  • Page 49: Chapter 4 -Where Do I Go From Here

    AMOS, the Alpha Micro Operating System, supervises all of the programs that run on your computer. Regular updates to the AMOS operating system and its accompanying system software are available from your VAR. There are different revision levels of AMOS; to use AM-7000 you need AMOS 2.3A (patch release 6/00) or later.

  • Page 50: Text Preparation

    (in the middle of the night, for example). Application Programs Your local Alpha Micro VAR has a variety of programs available for your computer, many of which are aimed at specific business needs such as: general accounting, dental office, legal office, real estate management, manufacturing inventory control, educational learning systems, restaurant management, medical office billing, laboratory analysis, and many others.

  • Page 51: Additional Documentation

    See your VAR for more information on these and other Alpha Micro office information products. ADDITIONAL DOCUMENTATION Now that your computer is up and running, you are ready to start exploring the world of Alpha Micro. Your guide to the new territory is the Alpha Micro software documentation. This section gives you an idea of which documentation to consult for directions depending on the path you want to take.

  • Page 52: I Want To Do Text Processing

    User's Manual for information on the enhanced AlphaBASIC PLUS programming language. If you are an experienced assembly language programmer who wants to write machine language programs for your Alpha Micro computer, we recommend you read these books: Alpha Micro Instruction Set, which contains information on the assembly language instruction set used by the Alpha Micro computers.

  • Page 53: Chapter 5 -System Administration

    And, what if you could not reconstruct the information no matter how much time you had? All Alpha Micro computers come with some type of data backup device. Whether your backup device is a streaming tape or DAT drive, learn to use it! Develop regular backup procedures and follow them! If disaster strikes, you'll be glad you had a little foresight.

  • Page 54: Disk Accounts

    OPR: for DSK0:[1,2]. So, whenever you need to log in the account DSK0:[1,2], you can type LOG OPR: RETURN instead. The AMOS User's Guide contains more information on ersatz names and how you can use them. AM-7000 Computer Owner's Manual, Rev. 00...

  • Page 55: Adding New Accounts

    SYSACT returns you to AMOS command level and the AMOS prompt symbol appears on your screen. For complete information on using the SYSACT command, see the SYSACT reference sheet in the System Commands Reference Manual. AM-7000 Computer Owner's Manual, Rev. 00...

  • Page 56: Modifying The System Initialization File

    Follow this procedure any time you modify the system initialization file. Do not change any lines in the system initialization file other than those discussed here until you're familiar with the documentation on the file in the System Operator's Guide. AM-7000 Computer Owner's Manual, Rev. 00...

  • Page 57: Defining The Am-7000 Parallel Ports

    Simple Initialization File Defining the AM-7000 Parallel Ports AM-7000 computers contain four high speed parallel ports, which are not automatically defined for you. If you want to use the parallel ports: 1. Type the following statement following the last DEVTBL statement in your TEST.INI file: DEVTBL /SEP0,SEP1,SEP2,SEP3 2.

  • Page 58: Adding Jobs

    Using the sample, here's the information you must tell AMOS about a terminal: TERM2 is the terminal name. You may use any name containing six or fewer letters and/or numbers. Each terminal must have a different name. AM-7000 Computer Owner's Manual, Rev. 00...

  • Page 59: Changing User Memory

    19200 is the baud rate of the terminal. ALPHA is the name of the terminal driver. ALPHA can be used for most Alpha Micro terminals, but you may want to see if a more specific driver is available for your terminal.

  • Page 60: Analyzing The Disk

    If you don't use SET DSKERR, the diagnostic tells you only that an error occurred, not where on the disk it happened. You must run the diagnostic program from the same job where you used SET DSKERR. AM-7000 Computer Owner's Manual, Rev. 00...

  • Page 61: The Redall Command

    Use DSKANA frequently on all of your disks. It is a good practice to use DSKANA on every disk just before you back up the files on that disk. AM-7000 Computer Owner's Manual, Rev. 00...

  • Page 62: Dskana Options

    For the complete procedure to follow if DSKANA finds any file errors, see "Recovering From Disk Errors" in the System Operator's Guide. DSKANA Options Following are the most common DSKANA options. Please see the DSKANA reference sheet in the System Commands Reference Manual for a complete listing of options. AM-7000 Computer Owner's Manual, Rev. 00...

  • Page 63: The Check Option And Automatic Backups

    System Commands Reference Manual for instructions on formatting a hard drive. Be extremely careful when using the FMTS2 command. Formatting a hard drive will delete all data and system files! It is important that only a certified technician perform these tasks. AM-7000 Computer Owner's Manual, Rev. 00...

  • Page 64: Formatting And Initializing A Diskette

    Initializing the disk clears all files - enter Y to confirm: Initializing the diskette erases any data on it, so be sure the correct diskette is in the drive and you entered the correct device name before you answer. AM-7000 Computer Owner's Manual, Rev. 00...

  • Page 65: Network Statistics

    Manual. For more information on disk accounts, see the AMOS User's Guide. NETWORK STATISTICS Along with the LDVSTS.LIT program, you can use the ESLSI.LIT program to get additional network statistics. Entering ESLSI will display the usage of the program and what switches are available. AM-7000 Computer Owner's Manual, Rev. 00...

  • Page 66: Chapter 6 -Preventive Maintenance

    CARE OF STREAMING TAPE AND DAT CARTRIDGES A cartridge tape can store data from an entire disk, so it is worth taking care of properly. In addition to the tips for diskettes, above, remember the following: AM-7000 Computer Owner's Manual, Rev. 00...

  • Page 67: Diskette Drive

    If excessive magnetic dust and debris collects on one or more of the heads, magnetic media may become unreadable and unwriteable. This situation may occur infrequently, or not at all, depending on the media used. AM-7000 Computer Owner's Manual, Rev. 00...

  • Page 68: Main Enclosure

    Remember, however, that if any liquid makes its way inside the enclosure, severe damage to the computer could result. So, a light dusting is the safest cleaning procedure, and probably all the main enclosure will require. AM-7000 Computer Owner's Manual, Rev. 00...

  • Page 69: Chapter 7 -Troubleshooting Procedures

    Troubleshooting Procedures We are sure you will find your Alpha Micro computer easy to install and use, and be pleased with its exceptional reliability. However, if a problem should occur, look at the list of symptoms below to find practical information on diagnosing and correcting the problem. Some of the problems below are the result of improper installation, while others can occur through user error.

  • Page 70: The Troubleshooting Procedures

    Are the power light and fan on? If yes, go to Step B. If the fan is on but the power light isn't, your power light may be burnt out. Go to Step B. AM-7000 Computer Owner's Manual, Rev. 00...
  • Page 71 If the memory light is on, perform "Procedure #3: Powerup/Reset" ONCE. If that procedure does not clear the memory light, proceed. 2. Perform "Procedure #5: Self Test." Call your VAR with the results of the self test and ask for help. Stop. AM-7000 Computer Owner's Manual, Rev. 00...

  • Page 72: Procedure #2: Check The Computer Status Codes

    System Disk. Your VAR can help you restore these files. If the computer does not boot from the alternate device either, something more serious may be wrong. Again, contact your VAR for help. Stop. AM-7000 Computer Owner's Manual, Rev. 00...

  • Page 73: Procedure #3: Powerup/Reset

    If MEMORY 0 was the last command in the system initialization command file and the SYSTAT command works, the computer booted successfully, and you can return to the procedure you are performing or to the next procedure on your checklist. AM-7000 Computer Owner's Manual, Rev. 00...

  • Page 74: Procedure #4: Check Terminal/Printer

    MAIN—not the AUX or PRINTER port. 3. For printers, make sure the correct ends of the cable are attached to the computer and the printer—cable ends are usually not interchangeable for printers. AM-7000 Computer Owner's Manual, Rev. 00...
  • Page 75 Check the terminal option settings against the terminal manufacturer's manual. Check for: 1. Correct baud rate. Your computer as shipped from Alpha Micro assumes the terminal it boots on is set for 19200 baud. 2. Set for full duplex (not half duplex) operation.

  • Page 76: Procedure #5: Self Test

    On the screen, the self test displays an inventory of your computer's configuration to let you know it will test only the components it has detected. You may want to check these off on the Self Test Checker, shown in the table below. AM-7000 Computer Owner's Manual, Rev. 00...

  • Page 77: Table 7-1: Self Test Checker (1)

    If the self test didn't find a problem, return to the current troubleshooting procedure or perform the next procedure on your checklist. Configuration Test Memory Test Interval Timer Test Steady Blinking Steady Blinking Steady Blinking 9X/1/16* 8F/1-16* Table 7-1: Self Test Checker (1) AM-7000 Computer Owner's Manual, Rev. 00...

  • Page 78: Procedure #6: Alternate Boot

    VAR quite a bit about what might be wrong with your computer. First, verify the device and unit number settings on the AM-7000 CMOS menu, for the correct alternate device. Refer to Chapter 2 for details on boot ID switch settings and the CMOS configuration menu.
  • Page 79 System Disk is intact. Although once you are familiar with the computer you can easily restore the System Disk yourself, we recommend that as a new user you contact your VAR for help at this point. Stop. AM-7000 Computer Owner's Manual, Rev. 00...

  • Page 80: Chapter 8 -Status Display Codes

    Some of these codes may also occur any time the computer is running. If you have a problem with your computer, check the front panel; if there is a code displayed, look it up in this table to help diagnose the problem. AM-7000 Computer Owner's Manual, Rev. 00...

  • Page 81: Table 8-1: Front Panel Status Codes

    The computer is transferring the instructions from the PROM into its Random Access Memory (RAM). If an error occurs here, your computer might have a bad PROM or bad memory. Contact your VAR. Table 8-1: Front Panel Status Codes AM-7000 Computer Owner's Manual, Rev. 00...
  • Page 82 When you are booting from a disk, this code may remain on the display for a short time after you've turned the power on, while the disk drive spins up to operating speed. Front Panel Status Codes (continued) AM-7000 Computer Owner's Manual, Rev. 00...
  • Page 83 This status is updated every second that the AC power is off.. Not valid, system inoperative. UPS is on, and batteries are low. Batteries are recharging, please check. UPS is bypassed and batteries are low. Front Panel Status Codes (continued) AM-7000 Computer Owner's Manual, Rev. 00...
  • Page 84 CMOS RAM failure. The system is going into a halt state. Contact your dealer or the Alpha Micro Technical Assistance Center. Do you want to enter CMOS setup? You have three seconds to press the key on the boot terminal, which must be set at 19200 baud.

  • Page 85: Self Test Feature

    If the diagnostic test reports a problem, you can contact your Alpha Micro VAR for help. Tell your VAR the information displayed by the diagnostic test; it will help the technicians give you quick service by narrowing the problem down to a specific piece of hardware within the computer.

  • Page 86: Appendix A -Connector Configurations

    Appendix A - Connector Configurations The types and number of connectors found on the rear panel of your AM-7000 will vary, depending on the hardware configuration you order. SERIAL I/O CONNECTORS The AM-7000's I/O interface board, the AM-319-20, includes four on-board RS-232 serial ports. All four serial ports have standard RJ-45 connectors and use the A31810.IDV interface driver for octal port...

  • Page 87: Important Note

    The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) has established rules regarding allowable emission levels of Class A computing devices (ref: Subpart J of Part 15 of FCC Rules). The Alpha Micro systems to which this manual applies have been determined to be in compliance with the FCC rules. However,...

  • Page 88: Cable Shielding

    Connector Configurations Page A-3 interference protects your system from signal noise. It also protects other devices around your Alpha Micro computer system (such as a TV or radio) from interference radiated by an improperly shielded system. The following section, titled "Cable Shielding," provides instructions on creating an adequately shielded cable that should provide satisfactory protection from interference.

  • Page 89: Rs-232 Db-9 Connector Signals

    RS-232 DB-9 to DB-25 Terminal Cables This section tells you which pins to connect to construct cables for particular terminals supported by Alpha Micro. We have grouped the signals into pairs which will also allow longer and more reliable communication to the computer system.

  • Page 90: Table A-2: Pinouts For Rs-232 Terminal-To-Computer Cables

    'overrunning' the terminal with data. This protocol is also effective for several printers used by Alpha Micro. Caution: While this cable configuration enhances the use of the Alpha Micro terminals, it may degrade system performance with other types of terminals and printers if they do not provide a compatible DTR on pin 20.

  • Page 91: Workstation Connection Cables

    For RJ-45 connectors, use the standard AM-359-50 cable set or straight RJ-45 patch cords. The RJ-45 connectors use the same pin-outs as DB-9 connectors. RS-232 pin assignments for connecting an IBM PC-compatible workstation to the Alpha Micro computer are listed in the tables below.

  • Page 92: Rs-232 Rj-45 To Db-25 Cables For Terminals And Printers

    (pin-for-pin) with no swapped ends. Alpha Micro also offers a pre-made cable featuring an RJ-45 connector on one end and a standard female DB-9 connector on the other end. For more information on RJ-45 cable adapters and types, refer to the AM-359 product installation instructions (PDI-00359-00).

  • Page 93: Parallel Printer Ports

    Appendix A PARALLEL PRINTER PORTS AM-7000 computers have four high-speed parallel ports. All the parallel ports on the AM-7000 support the industry standard Centronics interface. The signal pinouts for the parallel ports are as follows: To insure the reliability and performance of your parallel ports, avoid using parallel printer cables longer than six feet.

  • Page 94: Am-7000 Ups Status Port

    AM-7000 UPS STATUS PORT The UPS status port on the back panel of the AM-7000 is a male DB-9 connector. The UPS system also has a male DB-9 connector for its switch contact port. To connect the UPS to the computer you will need a cable with two female DB-9 connectors.

  • Page 95: Table A-8: 10/100Baset (Rj-45) Connector Signals

    Table A-8: 10/100BaseT (RJ-45) Connector Signals You should consult the 10BaseT and 100BaseT cabling specifications for details on cable lengths, impedance, wiring guidelines and other details to insure that your network configuration is properly designed and configured. AM-7000 Computer Owner's Manual, Rev. 00...

  • Page 96: Appendix B -The Control Characters

    While a Control-S is in effect, AMOS stores, but does not act upon, anything you type except for . There is, however, a limit to how much can be CTRL stored. The exact number of characters depends upon your initial system setup. AM-7000 Computer Owner's Manual, Rev. 00...
  • Page 97 This is a great convenience if you want to enter a series of similar commands; you can just keep making minor changes to one command, and reusing it. AM-7000 Computer Owner's Manual, Rev. 00...

  • Page 98: Appendix C -Super I/O

    Super I/O is designed to significantly increase character output for all serial ports using the A31810.IDV or AM359B.IDV drivers. This includes all AM-359 board serial I/O ports, as well as the AM-7000's four on-board serial ports. The more terminals you have on your system performing character output, the more you will benefit from Super I/O.

  • Page 99: Disabling Super I/O On Individual Am-359 Boards

    3. Save the file and leave AlphaVUE. The use the MONTST command to boot with the test initialization file, as described in Chapter 5. To disable Super I/O for the AM-319-20 serial ports, use this procedure for A31810.IDV instead of AM359.IDV. AM-7000 Computer Owner's Manual, Rev. 00...

  • Page 100: Appendix D -Scsi Termination

    Using an external terminator makes installing an add-on subsystem (like a portable CD-ROM drive) easier, eliminating the need to remove terminators from a SCSI device located in the host computer. In the AM-7000, the external terminator must be an “active” terminator. An active terminator is included with your AM-7000.

  • Page 101: Attaching External Devices

    Appendix D Figure A-1 shows an extended active external SCSI connector. This configuration is used on almost all of Alpha Micro's currently available product. The terminator is installed by sliding it over the connector and then screwing it into place.

  • Page 102: Appendix E -Read-Ahead And Write Buffering

    Both of these schemes are used by the current AM-520 firmware, but cannot be used on other non-intelligent interfaces such as the Alpha Micro SASI interface because the main processor running AMOS has to control the SASI interface, stealing CPU cycles away from other resources, such as the terminal service system and user jobs.

  • Page 103: Controlling Read-Ahead

    If the program then writes the next sequential block, the system must wait the latency time of the drive (i.e., the time it takes the drive to complete one revolution) before the next block can be written. Latency, even on fast SCSI-2 drives, is around 7ms. AM-7000 Computer Owner's Manual, Rev. 00...

  • Page 104: Potential Pitfalls

    SYSTEM statement used to load the SCSI disk driver into system memory. Append "/N" followed by the buffer size and flush period enables write buffering for that device. The syntax is: SYSTEM DVR:dev/N buffer-size flush-period For example: SYSTEM DVR:DSK/N 200K 60 AM-7000 Computer Owner's Manual, Rev. 00...

  • Page 105: Final Notes

    AM-176-10 CPU and SCSI subsystem differently than your application does; therefore we highly recommend you experiment with cache and write buffer sizes, read-ahead blocks, and flush periods on an installed system to find the best possible combination for that system. AM-7000 Computer Owner's Manual, Rev. 00...

  • Page 106: Appendix F -Boot Messages

    Appendix F - BOOT Messages The following messages may appear on the terminal connected to port 0 during the boot process: Welcome to the Alpha Micro Computer System. This is just a friendly greeting so you know your computer is starting.
  • Page 107 The checksum of the boot program is incorrect so the boot process cannot safely continue. Fatal time-out error An unexpected hardware bus error occurred. Fatal error -- system halting. The boot process cannot safely continue due to an error. AM-7000 Computer Owner's Manual, Rev. 00...

  • Page 108: Flash Memory Organization

    FLASH MEMORY OPERATION When the AM-7000 is turned on or reset, the boot code sizes main memory. If FLASH is selected as the boot device, 4MB is subtracted from the total memory size and the adjusted size is made available for AMOS.

  • Page 109: Booting From The Am-7000 Flash Memory

    Appendix G BOOTING FROM THE AM-7000 FLASH MEMORY. The AM-7000 flash memory is configured during the manufacturing process to contain a minimal AMOS system. It includes an AMOS monitor, several versions of system initialization files, commonly used device drivers and programs. As configured, it should boot properly and run on most AM-7000 configurations.

  • Page 110: Enhancing Flash Memory Contents

    7KRAM MON AMSS7K MON This has the SCSI disk driver embedded as the system disk driver INIs AM7000 INI supports 4 terminal, SCSI disk, tape, Ethernet tcp/ip AMOS32 INI AM-7000 Computer Owner's Manual, Rev. 00...

  • Page 111: Device Drivers For The Following

    Occasionally, modifications must be made to the AMOS configuration or other software stored in flash memory. FLUTIL helps maintain the contents of the AM-7000 flash memory. The flash memory can be erased and reprogrammed with the contents of the current RAM disk. The current contents of the flash memory can be saved to a data file which can then be used to recover in the event that the contents of the flash memory become unusable.
  • Page 112 If the update is not successful, a warning message is displayed. Also if you try to exit the program while the flash memory contents are compromised, a warning message is displayed. After an unsuccessful update, the system will probably not re-boot properly from flash memory, but should still boot properly from disk. AM-7000 Computer Owner's Manual, Rev. 00...

  • Page 113: Appendix H -Standard Flash & Disk Inis

    Standard Flash & Disk INIs The following files are sample INI files for both hard disk and flash disk booting for your reference. Bold text indicates commands that are specific to the AM-7000 CPU. HARD DISK INI FILES AM7000.INI ; New AM176-10 -- AM7000.INI boot from Disk.

  • Page 114: Amos32.Ini

    JOBS 100 JOBALC JOB0,JOB1,JOB2,JOB3 JOBALC NETLOG,TCPEMU ;JOBALC NETSER ;JOBALC LOGJOB QUEUE 4000 load trmdef.lit TRMDEF TRM0,A31810=0:19200,AM62A,100,100,100,editor=20 xy=24 TRMDEF TRM1,A31810=1:19200,AM62A,100,100,100,editor=20 TRMDEF TRM2,A31810=2:19200,AM62A,100,100,100,editor=20 TRMDEF TRM3,A31810=3:19200,AM62A,100,100,100,editor=20 ;TRMDEF NETSER,PSEUDO,NULL,100,100,100 ;TRMDEF LOGTRM,PSEUDO,NULL,100,100,100 TRMDEF NETLOG,PSEUDO,NULL,100,100,100 TRMDEF TCPEMU,PSEUDO,NULL,100,100,100 del * TDVDEF *.TDV AM-7000 Computer Owner's Manual, Rev. 00...
  • Page 115 SETJOB JOB1,TRM1,500k,JOB.JIN SETJOB JOB2,TRM2,500k,JOB.JIN SETJOB JOB3,TRM3,500k,JOB.JIN ;SETJOB NETSER,NETSER,100K,NETSER.LIT ;SETJOB LOGJOB,LOGTRM,100K,LOGJOB.NIN SETJOB NETLOG,NETLOG,50K SETJOB TCPEMU,TCPEMU,5000K,TCP:GOTCP.CMD SLEEP 2 LOG OPR: JOBPRI TCPEMU 254 SET DYN LOG SYS: SET HEX SET DSKERR MOUNT DSK: MEMORY 0 AM-7000 Computer Owner's Manual, Rev. 00...

  • Page 116: Flash Disk Ini Files

    ; New am176-10 - AM7000.INI boot from Flash Disk JOBS 100 JOBALC JOB0,JOB1,JOB2,JOB3 JOBALC NETLOG,TCPEMU ;JOBALC NETSER JOBALC LOGJOB QUEUE 4000 TRMDEF TRM0,A31810=0:19200,AM62A,100,100,100,editor=20 xy=24 TRMDEF TRM1,A31810=1:19200,AM62A,100,100,100,editor=20 TRMDEF TRM2,A31810=2:19200,AM62A,100,100,100,editor=20 TRMDEF TRM3,A31810=3:19200,AM62A,100,100,100,editor=20 ;TRMDEF NETSER,PSEUDO,NULL,100,100,100 TRMDEF LOGTRM,PSEUDO,NULL,100,100,100 TRMDEF NETLOG,PSEUDO,NULL,100,100,100 TRMDEF TCPEMU,PSEUDO,NULL,100,100,100 TDVDEF *.TDV AM-7000 Computer Owner's Manual, Rev. 00...

  • Page 117: Amos32.Ini

    LOG OPR: JOBPRI TCPEMU 254 SET DYN LOG SYS: SET HEX MOUNT SUB: MEMORY 0 AMOS32.INI ; AMOS32.INI boot from Flash Disk... JOBS 50 JOBALC JOB0,JOB1,JOB2,JOB3 JOBALC SPOOL,NETSER,NETLOG,TCPEMU QUEUE 4000 LOAD LOAD.LIT LOAD DEL.LIT AM-7000 Computer Owner's Manual, Rev. 00...
  • Page 118 SYSTEM TCP:IPCINI/N 100 100K SYSTEM TCP:TELNED.LIT SYSTEM TCP:TELNED.RTI SYSTEM TELNET.LIT SYSTEM TELNET.RTI SYSTEM TCP:FTPD.LIT SYSTEM TCP:FTPD.RTI SYSTEM SYS:FTP.LIT SYSTEM SYS:FTP.RTI SYSTEM TCP:LPD.LIT SYSTEM TCP:LPD.RTI SYSTEM TCP:LPR.LIT SYSTEM TCP:LPR.RTI SYSTEM SMEM 8M LOG OPR: SYSTEM SERVICE LOG SYS: AM-7000 Computer Owner's Manual, Rev. 00...
  • Page 119 DEL * SETJOB SPOOL,DUMMY,10K,LPTINI SEP0.PIN XFRSEL SEP0: RAW SETJOB NETSER,NETSER,100K,NETSER WAIT NETSER SETJOB NETLOG,NETLOG,50K SETJOB TCPEMU,TCPEMU,2000K,TCP:GOTCP.CMD SLEEP 5 LOG OPR: DEMO JOBPRI TCPEMU 254 SET DYN SETJOB JOB1,TRM1,500k,START7.JIN SETJOB JOB2,TRM2,500k,START7.JIN SETJOB JOB3,TRM3,500K,START7.JIN MEMORY 0 AM-7000 Computer Owner's Manual, Rev. 00...
  • Page 120 Document History Revision Date Description May 2000 Initial release. AM-7000 Computer Owner's Manual, Rev. 00...
  • Page 121 · 3-3 Communications options · 1-9, A-9 warm boot · 2-12 Computer warm boot tape · 2-11 booting · 3-1, 3-6 Booting with Flash Memory · 3-2, G-1 maintaining · 4-3 Buffer size · E-4 AM-7000 Computer Owner's Manual, Rev. 00...
  • Page 122 CHECK option · 5-11 options · 5-10 Jobs adding · 5-6 JOBALC statement · 5-6 JOBS command · 5-6 SETJOB statement · 5-7, 5-8 Electrical noise · 2-8 WAIT command · 5-7 requirements · 2-8 AM-7000 Computer Owner's Manual, Rev. 00...
  • Page 123 Self test checker · 7-8, 7-9 Parallel port · 1-9, 5-5, A-8 Serial I/O · 1-8 Parameters Service information · 1-11 terminal · 2-10, 7-7 SET DSKERR command · 5-8 Password · 3-8, 5-2 SETJOB command · 5-8 AM-7000 Computer Owner's Manual, Rev. 00...
  • Page 124 Word processing · 4-4 TRMDEF statement · 5-6, C-1 Write buffering · E-1, E-2, E-3 troubleshooting · 7-6 setting up · E-3 Termination WRMGEN program · 5-2 Wide SCSI · 1-7 Testing line voltages · 2-7 AM-7000 Computer Owner's Manual, Rev. 00...

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