Hi all,

I'm a NetBSD newbie (*nix newbie, actually), and just recently managed 
to install NetBSD on an old Powermac 8500.  I had some questions 
regarding the open firmware (v 1.0.5) manipulation on old systems like 
this.

First of all, I noticed that I was able to work with the monitor and 
keyboard when first installing NetBSD, but afterwards, could only work 
with open firmware via a serial connection.  This doesn't actually 
bother me as I just want the box itself and don't want the monitor or 
keyboard.  That said, however, if this is an indication of some deeper 
trouble, I'd like to know.

Secondly, whenever I execute the halt or shutdown -h now commands, I 
notice that NetBSD shuts down by exiting to open firmware again instead 
of an actual powering down.  Also, I can't get open firmware itself to 
shut down (the shut-down command, I believe).  Instead I just lose the 
serial connection.  What I do basically is just hit the power button 
and turn the machine off.  Still, if there is a way to avoid this, I'd 
appreciate any help.

Much thanks,
Erik