[Info-vax] VAX RDMs (Remote Diagnostic Modules)

[Rich Alderson]

Paul <useddec at gmail.com> writes:

> On Nov 15, 1:32=A0am, vaxorcist <vaxorc... at googlemail.com> wrote:
>> A question for former DEC technicians, System Managers & whoever
>> worked with RDMs:

>> Several of the bigger VAXen had an RDM (Remote Diagnostic Module) as
>> an option. In case of problems these RDM were connected via serial
>> line and modem to one of the DDCs (DEC Diagnostic Centers).

>> What kind of hardware was used on the other side (at the DEC
>> Diagnostic Centers)?

>> Surely a modem, but what else? Another RDM or a special module or
>> computer for remote diagnosis?

>> My VAX-11/750 has got an RDM and I would like to use it one day.

> The 11/70 had a RDC as an option. I think I still have one around
> here. I think tdey dialed into Colorado Springs.

I was a systems programmer on two DEC-20s at a site that paid for that
service (called KLINIK on the 36-bit product line).  The system to be
looked at did not dial out to Colorado Springs; rather, a systems programmer
would enable the KLINIK line, and place a call to DDC to let them know that
it was possible to dial into the console.  After they had their way with
the system, the line would be disabled until needed again.

I don't imagine that the procedure was different for 16- or 32-bit systems...

-- 
Rich Alderson                                   news at alderson.users.panix.com
    the russet leaves of an autumn oak/inspire once again the failed poet/
    to take up his pen/and essay to place his meagre words upon the page...