Upgrading The Lucent PortMaster (TM) Memory

The Lucent PortMaster (TM) has  two kinds of memory. 

    Dynamic Random Access Memory (DRAM): Simple Inline Memory Module (SIMMs) are used to provide DRAM. This is area where the PortMaster loads the operating system known as Lucent (ComOS) (TM), stores the running routing table, checks packets, builds new packets, etc. This Random Access Memory ( RAM) and upgrading of this RAM gives the PortMaster more available memory. 

    1Mb of upgradable DRAM is provided with the PortMaster.
     

  1. Nonvolatile Random Access Memory (NVRAM):  Also known as flash RAM, this is the area where the ComOS configuration information and system messages are stored within the PortMaster. Functioning much like a hard drive  in a PC. Everything that needs to be stored when the unit is powered off is stored here.

    2. 512Kb of NVRAM is provided with the PortMaster and cannot be upgraded.

Choosing Your DRAM (SIMM chips)

Lucent PortMaster Communication Servers and IRX routers come with 1MB of DRAM built in. The DRAM is 4 individual SIMM chips of 256Kb each. When upgrading the memory in the PortMaster you must upgrade all 4 SIMMs and all 4 SIMMs must be the same.

  • The PortMaster may be upgraded to 4MB of RAM with 4 individual 1Mb SIMMS. 
  • The PortMaster may be upgraded to 16MB of RAM with 4 individual 4Mb SIMMS. However, 4Mb total DRAM is sufficient for any PortMaster application.

DRAM (SIMMs) specifications for the PortMaster  IRX, PM2, PM2e, PM2er, PM25, PM2i, PM2ei 

  • The SIMMs must be 30 pin, 70ns (nano second), with Parity. 
  • All 4 SIMMs  must be the same, do not mix and match 
  • Each SIMM slot must have a SIMM plugged into it, you cannot use 1 4MB SIMM, it will not work. 

NOTE: SIMMs must have parity.

DRAM (SIMMs) Specifications for Lucent PortMaster (TM) 3 

  • 72 pin SIMMs 
  • 70ns or better 
  • Parity does not matter 
  • No EDO DRAM 
  • No Sync DRAM 

Replacing The SIMM Boards

  1. Turn off the PortMaster power and unplug the PortMaster power cord.

  2. Warning DO NOT OPEN THE PORTMASTER WITHOUT DISCONNECTING THE POWER FIRST
  3. Remove the screw located at the top and center of the back panel of the PortMaster with a phillips head screwdriver.
  4. Grasping the sides of the PortMaster case with your hands give a firm push forward and the front of the case should disengage from the PortMaster.
  5. On the main board find the SIMM sockets.

  6. These are sockets in a bank of four and are about three inches long. Each socket holds a 246Kb SIMM which is plugged into the SIMM socket and is also about three inches long.
  7. Remove the old 256Kb SIMMS.

  8. Each SIMM is held firmly in place by two metal clasps at both ends of the SIMM. Push the clasps away from the SIMM which will allow the SIMM to change its angle relative to the SIMM socket. From this position you can remove the SIMM.
  9. Insert the new SIMMs.

  10. Place your SIMMs into the SIMM sockets one at a time at an angle. Flip the SIMM up until the metal clasps snap into place. Each SIMM should be seated firmly in the socket.
  11. Put the case back on.
  12. Plug power in and boot the unit up.