How can I set up an alternate console on a VAXstation?
Most VAXstation series systems and a few Alpha series systems have a switch – most often labeled S3, largely for historical reasons-that enables one of the serial lines as the system console device; as OPA0:. This disables console output to the graphics display. (For a related behaviour, please see Section 11.10.) All VAXstation 3100 series systems provide a S3 slide switch, though the oldest may be missing the cut-out through the enclosure that provides access to the switch. The slide switch is located near the diagnostic LED display. (The slide switch is accessable with the cover removed.) Various members of the DEC 3000 series Alpha systems also have a similarly-labled S3 switch for selection of the alternate console. The particular port that becomes the console can vary. The printer MMJ connection is used on all VAXstation 3100 series.
