Compaq OpenVMS Cluster Software

This Software Product Description (SPD 29.78.19, April 2001) details the features, requirements, and configuration guidelines for Compaq OpenVMS Cluster Software. An OpenVMS Cluster is a highly integrated computing environment that distributes resources—such as processing power, mass storage, and management domains—across multiple Alpha and VAX systems.

Key aspects of the document include:

• Cluster Functionality: The software enables shared read/write access to disk files, clusterwide batch and print queues, a coordinated lock management system, and automated data/application caching to improve performance and availability.
• Interconnects: Clusters are configured using various communications media, including CI, DSSI, SCSI, Fibre Channel, Memory Channel, Ethernet, FDDI, and ATM (emulated LAN).
• Configuration Rules: The document outlines specific rules for cluster size (up to 96 systems), satellite booting, dual-pathing for storage availability, and mixed-architecture support (VAX and Alpha).
• Management Tools: The software includes utilities for monitoring cluster health, such as the dynamic "Show Cluster" utility, DECamds, and the Availability Manager.
• Software Requirements & Licensing: It specifies supported versions of the OpenVMS operating system and outlines the licensing structure for server and client software, including specialized ordering models for different AlphaServer system classes.
• Definitions: The document provides technical definitions for key terms like "boot node," "disk server," "satellite," and the various storage controller subsystems (HSC, HSJ, HSD, HSZ).