The OpenVMS Hobbyist FAQ

A collection of the most frequently asked questions we've recieved concerning the OpenVMS Hobbyist movement. Hopefully, we've got most of them covered, but if we've left anything out, let us know.
  • Q)When I tried to register my PAK, the checksum failed!
    A)The most common reason for this is not including both Termination and Release Dates (as shown on the PAK command procedure as /DATE= and /TERMINATION). Enter both dates when using VMSLICENSE and the PAK should register normally.

  • Q) How come VAX architecture only?
    Q) Why is only OpenVMS V6.1 allowed?
    A) This has now changed. The OpenVMS Hobbyist Program has now been opened up to include the latest VAX and Alpha version of OpenVMS and Layered Products.

  • Q) Why do the licenses expire in 1 year, and what happens after that?
    A) This is a requirement of the Terms and Conditions of the OpenVMS Hobbyist License. All licenses provided under the OpenVMS Hobbyist Program expire within a year. However, when the licenses get close to expiring, simply come back and register new ones for another year.

  • Q) Is the Hobbyist Distribution available on TK50?
    A) Not at this time. We hope to have a kit available soon.

  • Q) How do I find out the CPU Serial Number for my system?
    A) The CPU Serial Number can be found on the Digital sticker on the back of the CPU box.

  • Q) When upgrading my system using the OpenVMS Hobbyist CD, I got a "Unrecognized block type" error, and the upgrade failed. Is this a problem with the CD?
    A) No. This will occur if you upgrade from OpenVMS V6.1 using the OpenVMS Hobbyist CD. You will need to install the BACKUP ECO located at ftp://ftp.service.digital.com/public/vms/vax/v6.1/ which addresses this question. This and other supported installation path issues are addressed in the OpenVMS FAQ.