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Alpha Microsystems AM-6000 Owner's Manual

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Computer Owner's
AM-6000
Manual
DSM-00213-02

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  • Page 1                                          AM-6000   Computer Owner's         Manual                                             ...
  • Page 2 © 1998 ALPHA MICROSYSTEMS FIRST EDITION: August 1998 To re-order this document, request part number DSO-00213-00 FCC Notice This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class A digital device, pursuant to Part 15 of the FCC Rules.

  • Page 3: Table Of Contents

    Table of Contents CHAPTER 1 - INTRODUCING THE AM-6000 COMPUTER............. 1-1 ABOUT THIS BOOK........................1-3 Graphics Conventions ......................1-3 HARDWARE FEATURES ......................1-4 AM-319-20 System Board......................1-4 AM-176 Board ........................1-5 Processor ..........................1-5 Memory ..........................1-5 Cache Memory ........................1-5 CMOS Menu Setup........................
  • Page 4 EXPANDING YOUR COMPUTER ....................2-15 GETTING ASSISTANCE ......................2-15 CHAPTER 3 - GETTING STARTED................... 3-1 BOOTING THE COMPUTER ..................... 3-1 AM-6000 CMOS SETUP PROCEDURE ..................3-1 AM-6000 Initialization Routine....................3-2 CMOS Menu Options ......................3-2 Saving the CMOS Settings......................3-4 Important Note......................... 3-4 DEVICE NAMES........................
  • Page 5 Passwords ..........................5-2 Organizing the Disk........................5-2 Adding New Accounts ......................5-2 MODIFYING THE SYSTEM INITIALIZATION FILE ..............5-4 Defining the AM-6000 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 TERMINATOR POWER ......................D-2 APPENDIX E - READ-AHEAD AND WRITE BUFFERING............E-1 INTRODUCTION........................E-1 READ-AHEAD........................... E-1 Controlling Read-Ahead ......................E-2 WRITE BUFFERING ........................E-2 Potential Pitfalls ........................E-3 Setting Up Write Buffering ....................... E-3 FINAL NOTES ........................... E-4 AM-6000 Computer Owner's Manual, Rev. 00...
  • Page 7 Figure 2-2: Front Panel Controls and Indicators (AM-990)..............2-5 Figure 2-3: AM-6000 Rear Panel Configuration (Deskside Chassis)..........2-6 Figure 2-4: AM-6000 Rear Panel Configuration (AM-990 Chassis) ........... 2-7 Figure 2-5: AM-6000 Boot Port Location ..................2-12 Figure 3-1: 5.25" Diskette ......................3-10 Figure 3-2: 3.5"...

  • Page 8: Chapter 1 - Introducing The Am-6000 Computer

    The AM-6000 is offered in three models. The first, shown in Figure 1-1 below, is housed in a compact enclosure that fits neatly next to a desk.

  • Page 9: Figure 1-2: Am-6000 In Am-990 Chassis

    Chapter One For configurations requiring more peripheral devices or more serial input/output connections, the AM-6000 is available in the AM-990 chassis and the AM-990 Jumbo chassis, shown in Figure 1-2 and Figure 1-3, respectively. Figure 1-2: AM-6000 in AM-990 Chassis Figure 1-3: AM-6000 in AM-990 Jumbo Chassis AM-6000 Computer Owner's Manual, Rev.

  • Page 10: About This Book

    • Chapter 8 lists the computer status codes you may see on the front panel display. • Several appendices contain technical information, including instructions for cable construction and installation. The AM-6000 Service Manual contains additional information on opening and configuring your computer. The service manual is intended for authorized technical personnel only. Graphics Conventions Like other documents in the Alpha Micro documentation library, this book contains a number of standard symbols to make our text easier to read and understand.

  • Page 11: Hardware Features

    Table 1-1: Graphics Conventions HARDWARE FEATURES The AM-6000 uses a two-board combination, the AM-176 and the AM-319-20 boards, to provide new levels of performance and added versatility. There are a number of physical components that go into the construction of your AM-6000 computer which provide the ability to process, input, display, and store data.

  • Page 12: Am-176 Board

    AM-6000 computers have an MC68060 processor running at 66MHz. Memory The AM-176 board in the AM-6000 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- 6000 supports a minimum of 8MB and a maximum of 512MB (AM-176 boards earlier than Rev.

  • Page 13: Scsi And Wide Scsi Disk Drives

    SCSI and Wide SCSI Disk Drives The SCSI controller in the AM-6000 provides two bus interfaces, each originating at a connector on the AM-176 board. One is a 50-pin SCSI bus interface, the second is a 68-pin Wide SCSI bus interface. Both interfaces support Alpha Microsystems SCSI disks, streamer tapes, DAT tapes, CD-ROMs and the AM- 642 SCSI to Pertec Converter for ½"...

  • Page 14: Scsi Tape Drives

    AM318.IDV interface driver, and are assigned port numbers 0-3. Refer to Appendix A for Serial I/O cabling information. The AM-6000 also provides asynchronous serial I/O expansion via the standard Alpha Micro paddle card bus. We recommend the AM-359 eight-port serial I/O paddle card for I/O expansion. AM-359 cards provide high port density for eight users on a single card.

  • Page 15: Ups Monitoring

    The Real Time Clock is more efficient than on previous systems, and its battery-backup provides a high level of time, date, and CMOS protection against corruption by a malfunctioning program. AM-6000 Computer Owner's Manual, Rev. 00...

  • Page 16: Rear I/O Panel

    Page 1-9 Rear I/O Panel The AM-6000 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. The rear panels of the AM-990 and AM-990 Jumbo chassis provide space for additional peripheral devices or serial I/O connections.

  • Page 17: Service Information

    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 Service Operations (AMSO), our nationwide field service organization. AMSO provides direct repair services to Alpha Micro computer owners.

  • Page 18: Chapter 2 - Installation

    The drive may be damaged if you move the computer and it does not contain the protective insert. Unpack the terminal which will serve as the operator terminal and set it aside for now. What You Will Need When you unpack your computer you should find the following items: AM-6000 Computer Owner's Manual, Rev. 00...

  • Page 19: Reporting Shipping Damage

    If you performed any troubleshooting procedures, let the person receiving the computer know exactly what procedures you have done and what the results were. AM-6000 Computer Owner's Manual, Rev. 00...

  • Page 20: Recording The Ssd Identification Number

    The Software Security Device (SSD) is a customized integrated circuit located on the main electronics board inside your AM-6000 computer. The SSD uniquely identifies your computer to customized software that has been configured to run only on your computer. If you purchase customized software from your VAR or other software vendors, you need to give them your SSD identification number (printed on the SSD chip itself) before they can "key"...

  • Page 21: Figure 2-1: Front Panel Controls And Indicators (Deskside Chassis)

    • The control panel has a Keylock switch. Locking the switch disables the Reset button. This feature prevents someone from inadvertently pressing the Reset button while the computer is active. To enable the Reset button so it functions normally, turn the switch to the unlocked position. AM-6000 Computer Owner's Manual, Rev. 00...

  • Page 22: Am-6000 Rear I/O Panel Configurations

    AM-6000 Rear I/O Panel Configurations The types and number of connectors on the rear panel of your AM-6000 computer will vary depending on the chassis and the equipment included with your order. The illustrations on the next few pages show the AM-6000 rear panel configurations on a deskside chassis and the AM-990 chassis: AM-6000 Computer Owner's Manual, Rev.

  • Page 23: Figure 2-3: Am-6000 Rear Panel Configuration (Deskside Chassis)

    SCSI PRINT PORT 3 PRINT PORT 2 PRINT PORT 1 AM-176 Rear Panel Parallel PRINT PORT 0 Printer Ports AM-319-20 Rear Panel I/O Board Expansion Slots Figure 2-3: AM-6000 Rear Panel Configuration (Deskside Chassis) AM-6000 Computer Owner's Manual, Rev. 00...

  • Page 24: Preparing The Site

    AM-319-20 BOARD REAR PANEL AM-176 BOARD I/O PANEL Figure 2-4: AM-6000 Rear Panel Configuration (AM-990 Chassis) PREPARING THE SITE For your computer to do its best job for you, you must place it in an environment it is comfortable in.

  • Page 25: Environmental Requirements

    If possible, you should place your computer in an uncarpeted area. If you must place it in a carpeted area where static electricity could be a problem, you should treat the area with anti-static spray on a regular basis. AM-6000 Computer Owner's Manual, Rev. 00...

  • Page 26: Power And Cable Connections

    This can affect the efficient operation of your computer. A point to remember is that the closer you get to either end of the AC voltage power range, the less efficient the computer will be. AM-6000 Computer Owner's Manual, Rev. 00...

  • Page 27: Power Supply Ac Voltage And Receptacle

    If your computer is not set to the voltage you require, do not change the switch setting without checking with your VAR first. Your VAR will insure that you have the proper input voltage switch setting and power cord for your installation. AM-6000 Computer Owner's Manual, Rev. 00...

  • Page 28: 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-6000 Computer Owner's Manual, Rev. 00...

  • Page 29: Setting The Terminal's Baud Rate And Parameters

    TX RX LINK 10 base T SERIAL PORTS Figure 2-5: AM-6000 Boot Port Location Setting the Terminal's Baud Rate and Parameters AMOS initially assumes the operator terminal is an Alpha Micro or compatible terminal using RS-232 signals. It also assumes the terminal is working at 19200 baud. (The "baud rate" is the rate at which the terminal and computer transfer information between themselves;...

  • Page 30: Initial Testing

    To install the system software from a streaming tape to a new computer, you need to: 1. Make sure power to the computer is turned on. Check that the boot device unit number is set correctly. See "AM-6000 CMOS Setup Procedure," in Chapter 3. AM-6000 Computer Owner's Manual, Rev. 00...

  • Page 31: 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-6000 Computer Owner's Manual, Rev. 00...

  • Page 32: Expanding Your Computer

    "The Symptoms" is one you are experiencing. If the solution in that chapter does not cure your problem, or if your problem is not listed, it's time to get some outside help—call your VAR or the Alpha Micro Technical Assistance Center at 800/548-4848. AM-6000 Computer Owner's Manual, Rev. 00...

  • Page 33: Chapter 3 - Getting Started

    AM-6000 CMOS SETUP PROCEDURE When booting, the AM-6000 uses data stored in its CMOS parameters to find the primary and alternate boot devices, the system monitor and initialization files to use, and other system options. The CMOS RAM is provided on the AM-319-20 board;...

  • Page 34: Am-6000 Initialization Routine

    As indicated on the screen, you use the keys to select a parameter. To change a parameter, use keys to cycle through its possible settings. The only exceptions are file names, which you type. AM-6000 Computer Owner's Manual, Rev. 00...
  • Page 35 Any valid file name, with an .INI extension, can be used. The INI file must exist, and reside in account [1,4] of the first logical disk of the selected boot device. You can use the backspace and the arrow keys to edit this field. AM-6000 Computer Owner's Manual, Rev. 00...

  • Page 36: Saving The Cmos Settings

    DSK0:. When you change the device you boot from, it may also change the names of other devices on your AM-6000 Computer Owner's Manual, Rev. 00...

  • Page 37: The System Disk

    [1,2], [200,0], and [34,11] are examples of account numbers. Since they are actually octal numbers, the digits 8 and 9 aren't used, and the highest possible number is [377,376] and the lowest is [0,1]. AM-6000 Computer Owner's Manual, Rev. 00...

  • Page 38: Logging On

    You can also enter your user name instead of an account number in the LOG command. This logs you into the root account defined when your user name was set up. For example: RETURN LOG CARRIE SMITH This logs you into Carrie Smith's root account. AM-6000 Computer Owner's Manual, Rev. 00...

  • Page 39: 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-6000 Computer Owner's Manual, Rev. 00...

  • Page 40: Correcting Typing Mistakes

    • Press to erase single characters. RUBT O U U R T • Type to move the cursor to the beginning of the line. CTRL • Type CTRL to tell AMOS to ignore the line. AM-6000 Computer Owner's Manual, Rev. 00...

  • Page 41: A Word About Diskettes

    System Disk, they may be the only way you can boot your computer. To make a 3.5” boot diskette, you must format as double-sided, high-density. To make a 5.25” bootable diskette, you must format as double-sided, double-density. AM-6000 Computer Owner's Manual, Rev. 00...

  • Page 42: Using Diskettes

    If you are using 5.25" diskettes, look at the first figure above and notice the oval cutout in the plastic jacket. If you are using 3.5" diskettes, look at the figure above and notice the sliding metal door in the AM-6000 Computer Owner's Manual, Rev. 00...
  • Page 43 There is a small light on the front of the disk drive that is lit if the drive is busy. • When you remove a diskette from the drive, store it in its envelope and place it in a box where it is protected from dust. AM-6000 Computer Owner's Manual, Rev. 00...

  • Page 44: Mounting Diskettes

    MOUNT command. This is true even when re-inserting the same diskette you just took out. If you forget to use the MOUNT command, AMOS won't know which diskette is in the drive AM-6000 Computer Owner's Manual, Rev. 00...

  • Page 45: About Streaming Tape

    AM-625, AM-626, AM-627, and AM-628 drives. The cartridge tapes shown in the table below are the ones specified for use by the tape drive manufacturer. Using tapes other than those recommended may result in excessive head wear. AM-6000 Computer Owner's Manual, Rev. 00...

  • Page 46: ¼" Tape Drive Read/Write Compatibility

    • AM-628: Reads and writes in QIC-2GB 42 track, QIC-1000 30-track, QIC-320 26-track, and QIC-150 18-track format. Can also read QIC-120 15-track and QIC-24 9-track formats. This information is based on hardware capabilities. Some software may have further restrictions on tape format. AM-6000 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. Figure 3-5: DAT Tape Drive. AM-6000 Computer Owner's Manual, Rev. 00...
  • Page 48 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-6000 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-6000 you need AMOS 2.3A or later.

  • Page 50: Text Preparation

    • AlphaCALC, an electronic spreadsheet program that prepares "what if" financial models quickly and easily. • AlphaWRITE, a sophisticated word processing package that provides spelling checking, hyphenation, form letter preparation, automatic outlining and much more. AM-6000 Computer Owner's Manual, Rev. 00...

  • Page 51: Additional Documentation

    Alpha Micro system software. The second book will prove an invaluable reference tool—it contains short reference sheets on over 200 AMOS programs. The third book describes how to change your system configuration by editing the file AMOS reads the configuration from when it boots. AM-6000 Computer Owner's Manual, Rev. 00...

  • Page 52: I Want To Do Text Processing

    • AMOS Monitor Calls which contains information on the interfaces to the AMOS operating system available to the assembly language programmer. • AlphaFIX User's Manual which contains information on the screen oriented debugger program, AlphaFIX. AM-6000 Computer Owner's Manual, Rev. 00...

  • Page 53: Chapter 5 - System Administration

    Keep this warm boot media in a safe place in case you need it. You can use the WRMGEN program to create a warm boot tape. For more information on warm boot monitors, see the System Operator's Guide. AM-6000 Computer Owner's Manual, Rev. 00...

  • Page 54: Disk Accounts

    When your computer is brand new, the only accounts are the ones the system software is stored in. You'll want to add more accounts from time to time as your business grows. To do so, use the SYSACT command, following these steps: AM-6000 Computer Owner's Manual, Rev. 00...
  • Page 55 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-6000 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-6000 Computer Owner's Manual, Rev. 00...

  • Page 57: Defining The Am-6000 Parallel Ports

    Simple Initialization File Defining the AM-6000 Parallel Ports AM-6000 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-6000 Computer Owner's Manual, Rev. 00...

  • Page 59: Changing User Memory

    SETJOB statement (or the MEMORY command). If you decide to add jobs or alter memory allocations, you should first refer to the System Operator's Guide. To see a display of the current memory allocations on your computer, use the SYSTAT command: RETURN SYSTAT/N AM-6000 Computer Owner's Manual, Rev. 00...

  • 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-6000 Computer Owner's Manual, Rev. 00...

  • Page 61: The Redall Command

    For example, if DSKANA finds a disk block that is part of a file, but the bitmap shows the block not in use, DSKANA reports an error. When DSKANA finishes analyzing the disk, it rewrites the bitmap unless you tell it not to. AM-6000 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-6000 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-6000 Computer Owner's Manual, Rev. 00...

  • Page 64: Formatting And Initializing A Diskette

    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. Type Y . Now SYSACT asks you: RETURN You’ll now see this prompt: AM-6000 Computer Owner's Manual, Rev. 00...
  • Page 65 You have now left SYSACT and are at AMOS command level. For more information on FMT219, LOG, and SYSACT, refer to the System Commands Reference Manual. For more information on disk accounts, see the AMOS User's Guide. AM-6000 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-6000 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-6000 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-6000 Computer Owner's Manual, Rev. 00...

  • Page 69: Chapter 7 - Troubleshooting Procedures

    (Procedure #1) [ ] Check the System Status Codes (Procedure #2) [ ] Powerup/Reset (Procedure #3) [ ] Check Terminal/Printer (Procedure #4) [ ] Self Test (Procedure #5) [ ] Alternate Boot (Procedure #6) AM-6000 Computer Owner's Manual, Rev. 00...

  • 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-6000 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-6000 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-6000 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-6000 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-6000 Computer Owner's Manual, Rev. 00...
  • Page 75 If the terminal has a self test mode, use it to determine the problem with the terminal. Use the manual provided by the terminal manufacturer for instructions on interpreting the terminal self test. AM-6000 Computer Owner's Manual, Rev. 00...

  • 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-6000 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-6000 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-6000 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-6000 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-6000 Computer Owner's Manual, Rev. 00...

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

    2E error code. 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-6000 Computer Owner's Manual, Rev. 01...
  • Page 82 While booting: reading the Master File Directory (MFD) from the primary boot device. An error at this point indicates disk problems. During normal operation: unimplemented Integer instruction encountered. Front Panel Status Codes (continued) AM-6000 Computer Owner's Manual, Rev. 00...
  • Page 83 UPS inverter is running and a low battery condition exists. Only 2 minutes of power remaining! System shutdown is imminent. Not valid, system dead. An internal fault has been detected in the UPS. Front Panel Status Codes (continued) AM-6000 Computer Owner's Manual, Rev. 00...
  • Page 84 System has detected an attempt to write outside of the supervisor stack area. On boot-up, memory is being cleared and sized. Bus error was encountered. Address error was encountered. Illegal instruction was encountered. CHK instruction. Front Panel Status Codes (continued) AM-6000 Computer Owner's Manual, Rev. 00...

  • Page 85: Self Test Feature

    Because the operation of the self test and the codes displayed by the self test differ depending on the version of the boot PROMs contained in your computer, the appropriate self test information for your computer can be found in the System Self Test User's Guide that was shipped with your computer. AM-6000 Computer Owner's Manual, Rev. 00...

  • Page 86: Appendix A - Connector Configurations

    Appendix A - Connector Configurations The types and number of connectors found on the rear panel of your AM-6000 will vary, depending on the hardware configuration you order. SERIAL I/O CONNECTORS The AM-6000'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 AM318.IDV interface driver for octal port...

  • Page 87: What Is

    50 feet between devices. WHAT IS RS-422? RS-422 is supported by the AM-355 and AM-358 boards only. The AM-359 serial I/O board, as well as the AM-6000's four on-board serial ports do NOT support RS-422. 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).

  • Page 88: Cable Type

    Surrounding these wires is a metal foil covering. On the outside of the foil covering are small, uncoated, "drain wires." Completely surrounding all of the above elements is the plastic coating that forms the outside of the cable. Figure A-1: Shielding a Cable AM-6000 Computer Owner's Manual, Rev. 00...

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

    N/C—No Connection Input RXD—Received Data Output TXD—Transmitted Data Input CTS—Clear to Send Output RTS—Request to Send N/C—No Connection GND—Signal Ground Input DCD—Data Carrier Detect Output DTR—Data Terminal Ready Table A-1: Rear Panel DB-9 Connector Signals AM-6000 Computer Owner's Manual, Rev. 00...

  • Page 90: Rs-232 Db-9 To Db-25 Terminal Cables

    DTR on pin 20. In such cases, the connection to pin 4 at the computer end should be disconnected. AM-6000 Computer Owner's Manual, Rev. 00...

  • Page 91: Workstation Connection Cables

    SIGNAL → ← ← ← ← → ←→ Note: Pins 5, 6 and 8 on the workstation connector are jumpered together. Table A-4: Pinouts for Workstation to Computer Cable - IBM PC/XT and Compatibles AM-6000 Computer Owner's Manual, Rev. 00...

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

    RS-232 RJ-45 TO DB-25 CABLES FOR TERMINALS AND PRINTERS The following table shows the signal-to-pin orientation of each of the AM-6000's four on-board serial I/O connectors. Note that this particular cable uses an RJ-45 to RJ-45 patch cord, and a DB-25 connector adapter to interface to the terminal or printer.

  • Page 93: Parallel Printer Ports

    Appendix A PARALLEL PRINTER PORTS AM-6000 computers have four high-speed parallel ports. All the parallel ports on the AM-6000 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-6000 Ups Status Port

    AM-6000 UPS STATUS PORT The UPS status port on the back panel of the AM-6000 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: 10Baset (Rj-45) Connector Signals

    Transmit Data + Transmit Data - Receive Data + Receive Data - Table A-8: 10BaseT (RJ-45) Connector Signals The 10BaseT specification allows a maximum distance of 100m (approx. 300 feet) between the computer and hub. AM-6000 Computer Owner's Manual, Rev. 01...

  • 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-6000 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-6000 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 AM318.IDV or AM359B.IDV drivers. This includes all AM-359 board serial I/O ports, as well as the AM-6000'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 AM318.IDV instead of AM359.IDV. AM-6000 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-6000, the external terminator must be an “active” terminator. An active terminator is included with your AM-6000.

  • Page 101: Attaching External Devices

    • AM-625/626/627 SCSI 1/4" Streaming Tape Drive Installation Instructions, PDI-00625-00, revision A05 or later. • AM-647 DAT Tape Drive Installation Instructions, PDI-00647-00, revision A02 or later. • The configuration document accompanying your disk drive. AM-6000 Computer Owner's Manual, Rev. 00...

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

    For example, data base searches and programs like REDALL may execute much faster because the data they require is already in memory and only has to be transferred from the cache into the user partition. AM-6000 Computer Owner's Manual, Rev. 00...

  • 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-6000 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-6000 Computer Owner's Manual, Rev. 00...

  • Page 105: Final Notes

    AM-176 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-6000 Computer Owner's Manual, Rev. 00...
  • Page 106 Document History Revision Date Description May, 1997 Initial release. May, 1998 Small corrections to Chapter 8 and Appendix A. August, 1998 Change maximum memory size to 512MB. AM-6000 Computer Owner's Manual, Rev. 02...
  • Page 107 Boot monitor file · 3-3, 3-4, 7-11 Computer Boot port booting · 3-1, 3-5 location · 2-11 maintaining · 4-3 Booting the computer · 2-13, 3-1, 3-5 moving · 2-11 alternate device · 3-3 reshipping · 2-2 AM-6000 Computer Owner's Manual, Rev. 00...
  • Page 108 · 2-10 ALT MODE key · 3-7 Ethernet · 1-4, 1-5, 1-7, A-9 CAPS LOCK key · 3-7 cabling · A-9 CONTROL key · 3-7 External terminator · 1-6, D-1, D-2 DELETE key · 3-7 AM-6000 Computer Owner's Manual, Rev. 00...
  • Page 109 Powerup/reset · 7-3, 7-5, 7-7 front panel · 1-8, 8-1 PPN command · 3-6 self test · 1-8 Primary boot device · 3-3 Super I/O · C-1 Print spoolers · 1-9 disabling · C-1, C-2 Printer AM-6000 Computer Owner's Manual, Rev. 00...
  • Page 110 Troubleshooting · 7-1 Write buffering · E-1, E-2, E-3 alternate boot · 7-10 setting up · E-3 computer locks up · 7-2 WRMGEN program · 5-1 incomplete bootup · 7-2 no display · 7-1 AM-6000 Computer Owner's Manual, Rev. 00...

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