3Com NETBuilder II DPE 80, Manual, Page: 7 / 32

1
I
NSTALLING THE
DPE M
ODULE
The Dual Processor Engine (DPE) module is the central processor for the
NETBuilder II
®
system. It includes a flash memory drive for the system software
as well as a second flash memory drive for back-up. Firmware parameters set
with the software SysconF command and with the firmware boot monitor are
stored on the flash PROM (FPROM). A console port on the front of the module
provides local management. The DPE module, in combination with the 800
Mbps backplane, delivers consistently high throughput for all interface ports.
This chapter describes how to install the DPE module into the NETBuilder II
system and includes information on the following:
■
DPE models
■
Upgrading to a DPE
■
Preparing your system for installation
■
Installing in the NETBuilder II 4- or 8-Slot chassis
■
Installing in the NETBuilder II 8-Slot Extended chassis
■
Connecting a PC, terminal, or modem
■
Installing the software
■
Attaching the flash memory drive cover
If you have a NETBuilder II EZBuilt system with a preinstalled DPE module, go to
“Connecting a PC, Terminal, or Modem”
on page 1-5 .
The software flash memory card does not ship with the stand-alone DPE
module and must be purchased separately from 3Com.
DPE Models
The DPE module is available in two models, the DPE 40 and the DPE 80.
The DPE 40 has 32 MB of instruction and data memory (upgradeable to 64 MB)
and 8 MB of shared (packet) memory.
The DPE 80 has 64 MB of instruction and data memory and 16 MB of shared
(packet) memory.
The DPE 40 cannot be upgraded to a DPE 80.
Upgrading from a
CEC to a DPE
The DPE module has two built-in flash memory drives and does not support
either the floppy disk drive or the internal flash memory drive. The CEC module
uses the internal flash memory drive to boot. Refer to
Upgrading NETBuilder
Family Software for more information about upgrading your software.
When you replace the DPE module, the firmware parameters that were
previously configured by the SysconF command in the software are not
automatically updated to the FPROM of the replacement DPE module. You must
reconfigure these parameters. Refer to the software guide
for configuration
information.