DEC Multia
The Multia, later re-branded the Universal Desktop Box, was a line of desktop computers introduced by
The Multia had a compact case that left little room for expansion cards and restricted air flow, which can cause premature hardware failure due to overheating if not properly cared for. Enthusiasts remedy this by placing the Multia vertically instead of horizontally, allowing the heated air to escape via vents at the top, although this still requires preventing the Multia from overheating due to other factors, e.g. environmental.
Hardware specifications
The Alpha Multias included either an
Standard peripherals on both Alpha and Intel models included a
Models
Multia models comprised:
- Alpha Multia (codenamed QuickSilver):
- VX40: 166 MHz 21066, optional floppy disk drive and external SCSI
- VX41: 166 MHz 21066 upgradable to 233 MHz 21066A
- VX42: 233 MHz 21066A
- Intel Multia (codenamed Minerva):
- VX51: 100 MHz Pentium (P54)
In 1996, Digital began offering the Alpha Multia without Windows NT and renamed the line the "Universal Desktop Box" (nicknamed "UDB"). Prices were quite low, such that for the first time many enthusiasts and hobbyists could afford an Alpha AXP-based computer. The Multia or UDB can run
The Alpha-based Multia came configured with the
See also
References
- Multia MultiClient Desktop Service Information, Third edition, part no. EK-MULTS-IN. C01, Digital Equipment Corporation, Maynard, MA, October 1995.
