NCD X-Term Configuration

Xterminal Configuration

Types of X-Terminals

A variety of X-Terminals are in use at Jefferson Lab. The vast majority are manufactured by Network Computing Devices (NCD). Additionally, a few Hewlett-Packard (HP) models are used (mostly in Accelerator systems), and a variety of software allows PCs and Macs to behave as x-terminals by running local X Server software. The HP X-Terminals are managed by the Accelerator Software Development Group, and individual PCs and Macs are configured independently. The NCD units, however, are centrally configured and managed by the Jefferson Lab Computer Center and are the subject of this document.

NCD X-Terminal Models

Of the many NCD X-Terminals that are in use, several models are deployed, each having somewhat different features and specifications. All, however, share a number of common characteristics. They all depend upon the availability of several central services in order to operate. These services provide access to boot and configuration files, fonts and other elements necessary for operation.

Services Required

In order to function, the NCD X-Terminals all require access to a number of services. These services must be properly configured and available --

bootp -- This service allows the terminal to determine at boot time, it's network identity (name and IP address), and which server and boot files are to be used. This service is centrally configured and managed.

tftp -- This service provides access to various files necessary for operation. Tftp is used to transfer files between the file server hosta nd the x-terminal. The files involved include the x-terminal's actual x-server code, as well as access to configuration files and even standard font files.

xfs -- The X Font-Server provides access to a wide variety of fonts that are not loaded by the x-terms by default.

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