vTape question

I am trying to run some tests of an alphastation 255. I converted a physical tape to a .vtape file, and when I try to run it, I see that I need 10 license units. I found that vtape is not supported in freeAXP. Is there a way to convert this tape to an image that is supported in freeAXP?

You could build a VAX VMS system using SimH and use its vtape capabilities to restore the AlphaStation tape. A disk container file created under SimH will be useable under FreeAXP.

< class='quote'>[b:]Bruce Claremont wrote:[/b:]
You could build a VAX VMS system using SimH and use its vtape capabilities to restore the AlphaStation tape. A disk container file created under SimH will be useable under FreeAXP.

Sorry, I'm very new to this, how do I build a VAX VMS using SimH?

SimH is a free hardware emulator like FreeAXP. However, SimH emulates many platforms, including the VAX. Assuming you are a hobbyist, pick up the VAX/VMS hobbyist licenses from the VMS Hobbyist site and build a VAX VMS system under SimH. You will need a VAX/VMS installation CD to build the VAX VMS system under SimH.

You can find more on SimH at simh.trailing-edge.com/

If you have a working Alpha system, you could also network the FreeAXP system with it and simply copy files between the two systems. You will need Alpha OpenVMS installation media to create the FreeAXP VMS system.

How was the vtape file created?

Looks like I have some reading to do. Thanks for the replies.

OK, I found a working HDD and made an image of it using selfimage. Using that image as my drive in freeAXP, I successfully booted. Now I'm wondering, is it possible to have a GUI/desktop (windows-like) environment? I am trying to emulate a Digital Unix 3.2 and/or 4.0 desktop environment.