A SPARC makes a little fire
19 days ago
- #SparcStation
- #SunOS
- #SCSI
- The author attempted to boot a SparcStation 1+ but encountered 'Illegal Instruction' errors.
- Replacing the PROM battery was suggested, but the author ignored the advice and shelved the computer.
- Later, the author discovered the hard drive was an Apple factory drive, likely from an early Mac.
- Attempts to boot without a hard drive led to the computer trying to boot off a loopback device.
- The author used various methods to revive a Quantum ProDrive, including tapping it with a screwdriver.
- The SparcStation firmware reroutes SCSI ID 0 to ID 3, causing confusion during boot attempts.
- The floppy drive was found to be non-functional due to mechanical issues and a misaligned cable.
- Years later, the author attempted to use a BlueSCSI emulator but accidentally fried it with incorrect power.
- A blown SCSI termination fuse was identified as the cause of many boot issues.
- The author successfully installed SunOS using MAME and transferred the installation to a ZuluSCSI.
- External power was required for the ZuluSCSI due to weak termination power on the SparcStation.
- The author managed to boot into SunOS and OpenWindows but encountered network security errors.
- Future tasks include finding a mouse, replacing fuses, and upgrading the ROM.