
Installation of Solaris x86 version 2.1 on an
IBM PS/2 Model 95


Problem:

I cannot get Solaris to load/boot from my IBM PS/2 Model 95, 
or, I can not get Openwindows to display on my IBM 9515 XGA 
monitor.


Description:

During installation, the MDB boot diskette may find the 
appropriate SCSI target ID's but complains about not being 
able to load /vmunix, or A narrow horizontal band appears on 
the screen when initiating the openwin command. 


Workaround:

Before installation, make sure that the SCSI hard disk to be 
installed is at target ID 6, that the CD is set somewhere in 
the range of target ID 0 through 5, and that your XGA monitor 
is cabable of displaying both the 72 Hz and 75 Hz vertical 
refresh rates. (i.e. NEC Multi-sync 5FG)


Solution:

A more concise and detailed description follows as to how to 
properly install Solaris 2.1 x86 on an IBM PS/2 Model 95:

First of all, you will need to know the system type:

Remove the front panel and look under the display,  there 
should be a type specification there.

Also, boot the computer with the IBM reference diskette and 
have any required options disks handy.  Once in the config. 
program, write down the following information:

              BIOS Part Number and Date
              System Model and Sub-model
              Revision level (last line)


Next, write down the make and model number of your CD ROM 
drive.

Note that if you're using an IBM MCIS SCSI controller rather 
than the Adaptec 1640, the installation of the operating 
system is only supported when the hard drive for the system 
is supplied exclusively by IBM to be used specifically
with the MCIS adapter.

Now enter the configuration sub-menus and set the port 
address for the SCSI controller to 3540-3547, DMA level 3, 
fairness on, enable ROM WAIT, and insure that the target ID 
for the controller is 7.  If you require an alternate port
address setting, please call the Intellisystems automated 
supported system for updated information on this.

Your XGA video controller should reside at port address
2160-216F.

Before entering the "Set Configuration" sub-menu, insure that 
your SCSI disk is set to TID 6 and your CD ROM drive may be 
set at any target ID, preferrably 0.

Once in the "Set Configuration" sub-menu, choose "Set and 
View SCSI Device Configuration" to verify that the system 
sees all SCSI devices at their appropriate Target ID's. 

Now install Solaris normally.  The MDB boot screen should 
show the MCIS BIOS extension to reside at address 9D40.
