User guide

• Self-test diagnostics and extended functional diagnostics.
You use UNIX command methods to combine these tools to solve complex
problems. The UNIX command methods are piping, I/O redirection, command-
level scripting, and control functions. Because the console is built around a
multitasking kernel, it can support more complex functions, such as systems
exercisers, the Maintenance Operations Protocol (MOP) listener, and remote
console operations.
All components of the firmware use the same kernel services and I/O drivers.
For example, you use the same drivers when performing diagnostics as when you
perform bootstrap or normal console operations.
12.1.2 Command Overview
The Digital Alpha VME 4 console prompt is a familiar one to OpenVMS users:
the triple angle prompt, >>>.
The set of commands consists of many UNIX like commands, several OpenVMS
like commands, and a unique set of commands specifically developed for
diagnostics and design verification environments. Chapter 13 describes each
of the commands. Table 12–1 shows the most frequently-used commands.
Table 12–1 Commonly Used Commands
OpenVMS like Commands UNIX like Commands Unique Commands
boot cat edit
examine echo exer
deposit eval memexer
help grep memtest
set hd nettest
show ls sa
man
ps
sleep
Just as OpenVMS commands use /qualifier syntax to direct a command, the
Digital Alpha VME 4 console commands use the UNIX like -option syntax. For
example, the OpenVMS console command e/b 0 is e-b0. Notice that a space
separates the option from the command. If you type e-b 0, the console issues an
error message.
12–2 Console Primer