[Info-vax] MIcrovax 3100-98

[Kerry Main]

> -----Original Message-----
> From: Info-vax <info-vax-bounces at rbnsn.com> On Behalf Of Dave Froble
> via Info-vax
> Sent: October 31, 2019 6:19 PM
> To: info-vax at rbnsn.com
> Cc: Dave Froble <davef at tsoft-inc.com>
> Subject: Re: [Info-vax] MIcrovax 3100-98
> 
> On 10/31/2019 2:28 PM, Simon Clubley wrote:
> > On 2019-10-31, David Turner <dturner- at -islandco.com> wrote:
> >> I am in need of either a Microvax 3100-98 or Vax 4000-108 If anyone
> >> has one in working condition (we can fix cosmetics) please call me
> >> asap  *912-844-7642*
> >>
> >
> > Is there any reason why it has to be a real VAX instead of an emulated
one
> ?
> >
> > For example, is there some custom hardware attached ?
> >
> > At this point in the VAX lifecycle, wouldn't it be better to replace
> > failed VAX systems (assuming they don't have some custom hardware
> > attached) with an emulated VAX setup ?
> >

[snip..]

When a Customer requires *only* a specific piece of hardware, it is often
the case where the HW has gone through extensive certification by legal
and/or other regulatory bodies. They often do not have any option to upgrade
or use alternative HW unless they re-certify the solution which is usually
mega $'s in time and people testing times etc. Its usually easier to just
stock pile spare gear which has been certified.

Btw, I remember trying to convince  some IT folks in a steel plant to
replace their "aging" VAX'es that were used extensively in the plant with a
cluster of small Alpha's as a means to increase availability.

They all laughed and one of them stated he could not remember when they had
a VAX HW problem. 

Good testament to the VAX HW, but not so good for new sales.


Regards,

Kerry Main
Kerry dot main at starkgaming dot com