[Info-vax] RD54 in VaxStation 3200

[Richard B. Gilbert]

Steven Schweda wrote:
> GanjaTron wrote:
> 
>> I've run into some headaches while installing an RD54 drive and RQDX3
>> controller in a VAXStation 3200 (BA23 enclosure). [...]
> 
>    It might be good to know which slot contains what.  There's
> a diagram of the bus/slot order at:
> 
>       http://antinode.info/dec/qbus_serpentine.html
> 
>    I haven't run an RD-series disk in a BA23 cabinet for a
> very long time, so I know nothing, but, as I recall, Drive
> Select 3 was right for a disk in a BA123 cabinet with an RQDXE
> extender, but it may not be right in a BA23.  I'd try DS1 or
> DS2 (or even DS4), and see what happens.  (I believe that I
> knew the right stuff for this situation at one time, but all
> my knowledge is probably on a (Post-It brand) sticky note in a
> BA23 cabinet somewhere, if it's anywhere.)
> 
>> Did the drive lose its format  [...]
> 
>    Even if it did, that shouldn't cause the multiple-devices
> problem you're seeing.
> 
>> This is my first foray into DEC hardware, so bear with me. Any help
>> appreciated!
> 
>    You picked a spot quite near the old end of the spectrum
> for your entry.


You could even call it "quaint"!  The RD5x series disks are almost 
twenty-five, years old!  The systems that can be used with an RD54 are 
as old or older!  ISTR that the disks used something called "MFM 
technology.  I think the MicroVAX-I and MicroVAX-II supported them.

The drive and any supporting hardware might be welcome in a museum or a 
private collection.