Introduction
Prev |  | Next

## Introduction

This guide explains how to install and configure the OCTANE™ Channel Option (OCO) board.

The OCTANE Channel Option board enables a single OCTANE workstation to provide different data to multiple displays simultaneously. The OCO formats include support for up to four simultaneous displays for both field parallel and field sequential formats.

The field parallel format allows your OCTANE workstation to support lower resolution formats than are available on the main monitor, including VGA, SVGA, and RS170 timing. The field sequential formats are suitable for use with many head mounted displays. OCO provides two channels of output for head mounted displays: one for the left eye, and one for the right eye.

- Chapter 1, “Installing the OCTANE Channel Option Board,” provides instructions for installing the OCTANE Channel Option board in an OCTANE workstation.

- Chapter 2, “Connecting to the Breakout Box,” provides information about the breakout box cable, which provides the interface between the OCTANE Channel Option board and the monitors or projection devices.

- Chapter 3, “Configuring the OCTANE Channel Option Board,” provides information about configuring the OCTANE Channel Option board.

- Chapter 4, “Removing the OCTANE Channel Option Board,” provides instructions for removing the OCTANE Channel Option board.

- Chapter 5, “Troubleshooting,” provides troubleshooting information.

- Appendix A provides illustrations of the OCTANE Channel Option Board and the OCTANE/SI, OCTANE/SI with texture memory option board, OCTANE/SSI, and OCTANE/MXI graphics board sets. An illustration of the back of the workstation showing module and ports is also included.

See Chapters 2 and 3 for information on monitors and monitor formats.

Read this guide once all the way through before you start to work. You will become familiar with the OCTANE system and the parts with which you will be working. If you find an unfamiliar term, check the glossary on page 97.

It's always a good idea to back up your system before installing a new board. If you have not backed up your system recently, do so now. For instructions on backing up your system, see the online Personal System Administration Guide.

## Additional Hardware Information

OCTANE Hardware Central is an online resource that provides access to hardware movies and other information previously found only in your printed owner's guide, such as port pinout information, user tips, environmental information, and so on.

1. Choose Toolchest > Selected > File QuickFind.

2. When the window appears, type `insight` and press Enter.

3. When the IRIS InSight™ bookshelf appears, choose OCTANE Hardware Central from the SGI EndUser bookshelf.

Or, access it through your Web browser. In the location window, type `file:/usr/share/Insight/library/SGI_bookshelves/SGI_EndUser/books/Octane_HWCntl/index.html` and press Enter.

OCTANE Hardware Movies show OCTANE option boards being installed and removed. The hardware movies are found in OCTANE Hardware Central.

### Hardware Configurations

A listing of configurations (upgrades and options) is available on the Web. In the locations window, type:

    http://www.sgi.com/Products/hardware/desktop/products/configurator/
    configurator.html

### Technical Publications Library

A copy of this manual, as well as other Silicon Graphics technical publications, is found in the Technical Publications Library. To access this library, open your Web browser and type:`` http://techpubs.sgi.com/library/

## Software and System Administration Information

For complete information on installing software, see the online Personal System Administration Guide. It is located on your desktop in the Toolchest > Help > Online Books. For more advanced information, see the online IRIX Admin: Software Installation & Licensing Guide. For system administration information, see the SGI_Admin section of the online bookshelf.

## Product Support

The OCTANE workstation is designed so that you can maintain and repair the workstation without the help of a trained technician. Contact your Silicon Graphics® subsidiary or authorized distributor for information about product support.

Silicon Graphics, Inc., provides a comprehensive range of product support for its products. If you are in North America and would like support for your Silicon Graphics supported products, contact the Technical Assistance Center at 1-800-800-4SGI or your authorized service provider. If you are outside North America, contact the Silicon Graphics subsidiary or authorized distributor in your country.

Prev | Table of Contents | Next
OCTANE™ Channel Option Installation Guide |  | Chapter 1. Installing the OCTANE Channel Option Board