Chapter 1
Introduction
1.1
About the MAXserver 1600 and 1608
The MAXserver 1600 and 1608 are stand-alone terminal servers that provide:
Serial Ports -- The MAXserver 1600 provides16 asynchronous serial communication ports with RJ-45
interfaces. The MAXserver 1608 provides eight ports. (See Figure 2-4 for connector signal assignments.)
Ethernet Interfaces -- A 15-pin standard Ethernet Attachment Unit Interface (AUI) connector and a
"ThinWire" Ethernet interface (BNC connector). (See Figure B-1 for AUI connector signal assignments.)
TCP/IP and LAT Protocol Support -- The MAXserver 1600 and 1608 provide concurrent support for
the DEC Local Area Transport (LAT
®
) and TCP/IP protocols.
Memory Card -- An optional Memory card, from which the unit can load its operating software. Two
memory card types are currently available from Xyplex:
-
“Flash” cards, which are readable/writeable and can be upgraded to a newer software version
-
“ROM” (or "OTP") cards, which are read-only and cannot be updated
The MAXserver 1600 and 1608 can also load software from the Memory card, over the network, to
MAXserver 1100/1120, 1500/1520, 1600/1608, and 1800/1820 terminal server units.
Network Software Loading -- If you order a MAXserver 1600 or 1608 without a Memory card, the
unit loads its operating software from a network host called a load server. The load server is typically
a UNIX
TM
or VAX/VMS
TM
system. Alternatively, a Xyplex MAXserver Manager card (MAXman) or
MAXserver 1800/1820 terminal server can be used. The load server downloads a software image to
the MAXserver 1600/1608, over the network, whenever the terminal server is powered on or re-
initialized. The load server can support other devices as well.
Expandable Memory -- The MAXserver 1600 and 1608 are shipped with either 1 MB or 3 MB of factory
installed memory. The memory can be expanded in 2 MB increments, up to 5 MB, using SIMM memory
modules. SIMMs should be installed by qualified personnel only. To upgrade your MAXserver 1600 or
1608, contact your Xyplex sales representative. The order code for a 2 MByte SIMM memory upgrade kit
is MX-500-5744. (If you only need installation instructions, the order code is MX-420-0608.)
Concurrent Flow Control and Modem Control Support -- The MAXserver 1600 and 1608 provide
concurrent support for RTS/CTS flow control signals and modem control signals on all 16 ports. New
adaptors are available to support cabling to MAXserver 1600/1608 ports when these signals are used.
In most cases, the MAXserver 1600/1608 can also use existing MAXserver 1000-series cabling, if
support for the new signals is not required. (Refer to Section B.3.3 for more information.)
Figure 2-3 shows a front view of the MAXserver 1600/1608. Figure 2-2 shows a rear view.
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