Abstract
This chapter provides an overview of the console subsystem. On an Alpha AXP system, underlying control of the system platform hardware is provided by a console subsystem. The console subsystem initializes, tests, and prepares the system platform hardware for Alpha AXP system software; bootstraps system software; controls and monitors the state and state transitions of each processor in a multiprocessor system; provides services to system software that simplify system software control of and access to platform hardware; and provides a means for a console operator to monitor and control the system. The console subsystem interacts with system platform hardware to accomplish the first three tasks. The actual mechanisms of these interactions are specific to the platform hardware; however, the net effects are common to all systems. The console subsystem interacts with system software once control of the system platform hardware has been transferred to that software. The console subsystem interacts with the console operator through a virtual display device or console terminal.
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a call
