mc²96 Installation & Service Guide
Version: 1.0/3
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3. The Hardware
3.9
Ethernet Server Types
Internally, each channel and central bay is fitted with an Ethernet server. In channel bays, the server type is
always the same: a Bayserver. For the central bay, there are two possibilities: either a Bayserver or Gateserver
(supported from V6.4.0 onwards). This option determines how the control surface connects to the Core and, as
a result, where it can be installed.
·
Bayserver consoles connect directly to the ETHERNET A ports on the Nova73. Since the connection
must be directly-wired, this limits the maximum distance between the surface and Core.
·
Gateserver consoles connect to the Core via the Management Network. Since this supports Layer 3
routing, this allows the surface to be installed remotely from the Core.
The internal and external wiring for each variant are described later.
Externally, there are two ways to determine the central server type: via the start-up screens on the Central GUI,
or the Ethernet connector panel at the rear of the frame.
Start-up Screen (for Central Bayserver)
Start-up Screen (for Central Gateserver)
Rear Connector Panel (if Central Bayserver)
Rear Connector Panel (if Central Gateserver)
3.10
Control Surface Wiring
Internally, the control surface uses point-to-point connections, within each bay, to provide fault tolerance and
convenient servicing. Any bay or panel can be isolated from the rest of the console, allowing panels and
displays to be replaced during operation.
Firstly, within each bay, individual panels and displays connect to the Ethernet server (mounted behind the
display). In channel bays, the connections are made using both USB and Display Port. In the centre section,
the optional user panels connect via USB only, and there is also a USB hub which connects to the console
keyboard and trackball.
Each server then connects to an Ethernet switch to form what is known as the internal network or ETHERNET
A. On the mc
2
96, the switch also connects to the Central Panel Upper to drive the touch-screen MONITORING
display.
Externally, the following connections are wired from the internal network switch (on all consoles):
·
ETH Extension
(rear panel) - to connect extender frames.
·
ETH A
(front buffer) - to connect a service computer.
The remaining connections vary, depending on whether the central bay is fitted with a Bayserver or Gateserver.