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PLACE STAMP HERE EPSON America, Inc. 2780 Lomita Blvd.
EPSON® EQUITY™386SX User’s Guide Y19299100100
IMPORTANT NOTICE DISCLAIMER OF WARRANTY Epson America makes no representations or warranties, either express or implied, by or with respect to anything in this manual, and shall not be liable for any implied warranties of merchantability and fitness for a particular purpose or for any indirect, special, or consequential damages. Some states do not allow the exclusion of incidental or consequential damages, so this exclusion may not apply to you. COPYRIGHT NOTICE All rights reserved.
IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS 1. Read all of these instructions and save them for later reference. 2. Follow all warnings and instructions marked on the product. 3. Unplug this product from the wall outlet before cleaning. Do not use liquid cleaners or aerosol cleaners. Use a damp cloth for cleaning. 4. Do not use this product near water. 5. Do not place this product on an unstable cart, stand, or table. The product may fall, causing serious damage to the product. 6.
11. Never push objects of any kind into this product through cabinet slots, as they may touch dangerous voltage points or short out parts that could result in a risk of fire or electric shock. Never spill liquid of any kind on the product. 12. Except as specifically explained in the User’s Manual, do not attempt to service this product yourself. Opening or removing those covers that are marked “Do Not Remove” may expose you to dangerous voltage points or other risks.
Contents Introduction How to Use This Manual . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Where to Get Help . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Chapter 1 Setting Up Your System Unpacking . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Choosing a Location. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Connecting a Monitor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Connecting a Printer or Other Device.
Setting the Serial and Parallel Interfaces . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Reviewing Your Settings. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Leaving the Setup Menu. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Adding an Optional Memory Card . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Chapter 3 2-28 2-29 Using the Equity 386SX Installing MS-DOS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Using a Power-on Password . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Chapter 4 Using MS-DOS with Your Equity 386SX Starting MS-DOS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Using Drive Designators . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . The Current Drive . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Types of MS-DOS Commands . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Entering an MS-DOS Command . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Setting the Date and Time . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Chapter 5 Installing Options Adding Memory Modules . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Installing Option Cards. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Removing the Cover . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Installing an Option Card . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Changing Jumper Settings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Removing an Option Card. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Replacing the Cover . .
Appendix C Performing System Diagnostics Starting System Diagnostics . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Selecting an Option . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Modifying the Device List. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Selecting a Test. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Resuming From an Error. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . System Board Check . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Alternate Parallel Port Check . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Parallel Port (on Video Adapter) Check . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Serial Port (RS-232C Port) Check. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Alternate Serial Port Check . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Dot-matrix Printer Check. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Hard Disk Drive(s) and Controller Check. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Seek Check . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Appendix F Specifications CPU and Memory . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Controllers. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Interfaces . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Power Supply . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Mass Storage . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Keyboard . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Introduction The Epson® Equity™ 386SX is a high-performance personal computer which offers exceptional speed and versatility in a compact design. The computer’s 80386SX microprocessor makes all your programs run faster, even when supporting multitasking operations. The Equity 386SXS available in these configurations: c3 A single diskette drive system with a 1.44MB (megabyte) 3 ‘/z-inch diskette drive Cl A hard disk drive system with one 40MB or 100MB hard disk and a 1.44MB diskette drive.
You may also want to install an 80387SX math coprocessor in your computer to speed up mathematical calculations. Check with your authorized Epson dealer to see which options are available. The Equity 386SXoffers several features to enhance the security and versatility of your computer: D Password protection. This optional feature ensures that no one may access your computer unless they know the password. Cl Embedded hard disk drive and integrated diskette drive controllers.
MS-DOS is not the only operating system you can use with your computer. If you have a hard disk you also may want to use MS®OS/2. A mong other capabilities, MS OS/2 provides multitasking, dual-mode processing, and online help. With Epson’s version of MS OS/2, you can have both MS-DOS and MS OS/2 on your Equity 386SX; this way, you can select which operating system to load each time you turn on the computer. Ask your Epson dealer for more information.
Appendix A contains troubleshooting tips in case you encounter any problems while using your computer. Appendix B provides information about the power-on diagnostics. Appendix C outlines the system diagnostics checks you can perform on your computer. If you are having trouble with any part of the hardware, you may want to run some of these diagnostics checks. Appendix D describes how to perform a hardware-level format on a hard disk.
Epson is confident that this policy will provide you with the assistance you need. Call the Epson Consumer Information Center at 1-800-922-8911 for the following: Cl The nearest Epson dealer 0 The nearest Customer Care Center Cl Information on Epson User Groups. To locate or purchase accessories or supplies, contact your nearest Epson dealer or call 1-800-873-7766.
6 Introduction
Chapter 1 Setting Up Your System Setting up your Epson Equity 386SX personal computer is easy. Just follow the seven steps in this chapter. As you set up your computer, you may want to leave this manual’s back cover foldout open so you can refer to the two illustrations identifying the different parts of the computer. 1 Unpacking As you remove your system components from their cartons, be sure to inspect each piece. If anything is missing or looks damaged, check with your Epson dealer.
Besides this manual, you should have the following: LI The computer and power cord Ll The keyboard with attached cable Cl Three MS-DOS 4.01 diskettes: Install, Operating, and Shell Cl A Reference diskette Ll Four MS-DOS manuals: an Installation Guide, a Shell User’s Guide, a Reference Manual, and a Command Summary. In addition to these items, you need a compatible monitor and display adapter card. You may also have a printer or other peripheral device.
2 Choosing a Location Before you set up your Equity 386SX, it’s important to choose a comfortable, convenient location where it can run properly. Select a location that provides the following: A large, sturdy desk or table that can easily support the weight of your system, including all its components. A flat, hard surface. Soft surfaces like beds and carpeted floors attract static electricity, which can erase data on your disks and damage the computer’s circuitry.
3 Connecting a Monitor The procedure you use to connect your monitor to the computer depends on the type of monitor you have. See your monitor manual for detailed instructions or follow the general guidelines below. A monitor requires that a display adapter (video) card be installed inside the computer to control it. Your dealer may have already installed a video card for you; if not, you need to install it before you can connect your monitor.
Follow these steps to connect the monitor: 1. Place your monitor on top of or near the computer. It is easiest to connect the monitor cable if the backs of the monitor and the computer are facing you. 2. If necessary, connect the monitor cable to the monitor. (Some monitors come with permanently attached cables.) 3. Connect the appropriate end of the monitor cable to the video card connector on the back of the computer, as shown below.
5. Plug the monitor’s power cord into the monitor’s power inlet, as shown below. 6. Plug the other end of the power cord into an electrical outlet.
4 Connecting a Printer or Other Device The Equity 386SX has a parallel interface, a serial interface, and an auxiliary mouse connector. To connect a printer or other peripheral device to one of these interfaces, follow the instructions below. Of course, Epson offers a full range of printers; check with your dealer for more information. Using the Parallel Interface The Equity 386SX parallel interface is Centronics®-compatible and uses a DB-25S connector.
3. One end of the printer cable has a 25-pin, D-shell, male connector. Connect this end to the parallel port on the back panel of the computer, as shown below. If the plug has retaining screws, tighten them by hand or with a screwdriver, depending on the screw type.
4. Connect the other end of the cable to the printer, as shown below. To secure the cable, squeeze the clips at each side of the printer port and push them into place. 5. Plug the printer’s power cord into an electrical outlet.
Using the Serial Interface If you have a printer, a modem, or any other peripheral with a serial interface, you can connect it to the serial (RS-232C) port on the back of the computer. The Equity 386SX uses a DB-9P male connector, so be sure you have a compatible cable. To connect a serial device, follow the same steps as above for connecting a parallel device. Note You need to ensure that the serial port is set up so it functions properly.
Using the Mouse Connector The Equity 386SX has an auxiliary port for a mouse that uses a mini DIN (6-pin) connector. To connect a mouse to the builtin mouse port and set up the computer to use it, see the manual that comes with the mouse. To use a mouse with your computer, you may need to add commands to your MS-DOS CONFIGSYS file. See your MS-DOS Reference Manual for instructions.
5 1-12 Connecting the Power Cord Follow these steps to connect the power cord: 1. Make sure the power switch on the computer is turned off. 2. Plug the power cord into the AC power inlet on the back panel, as shown below. To avoid an electric shock, be sure to plug the cord into the computer before plugging it into the wall socket. 3. Plug the other end of the power cord into a three-prong, 120-volt, grounded electrical outlet.
6 Connecting the Keyboard Follow these steps to connect the keyboard: 1. Turn the computer around so the front is facing you. 2. Open the door on the lower left corner of the computer’s front panel by pressing it in slightly and then releasing it.
__ 3. Plug the keyboard cable into the socket, as shown below. Do not force the connector, but be sure to insert it all the way. Guide the keyboard cable through the notch on the left side of the panel. \c 4. 1-14 Close the panel access door.
You can change the angle of the keyboard by adjusting the legs on the bottom. Turn the keyboard over and lift each leg upward until it locks into place, as shown below. You can lock the legs to a low or high position, or leave them flat. 7 Turning On the Computer After you set up your system, you’re ready to turn on the power. But first, read the following safety rules to avoid accidentally damaging your computer or injuring yourself: Ll Do not dismantle any part of the computer.
D Never turn off or reset your computer while a disk drive light is on. This can destroy data stored on disk or make an entire disk unusable. C! Always wait at least five seconds after you turn off the power before you turn it on again. Turning the power off and on rapidly can damage the computer’s circuitry. D Do not leave a beverage on top of or next to your system or any of its components. Spilled liquid can damage the circuitry of your components.
The power indicator on the front panel lights up. After a few seconds, the computer starts to perform an internal self test. This is a series of checks the computer completes each time you turn it on to make sure everything is working correctly. If anything is wrong, an error message appears on the screen. You see a message prompting you to insert a system diskette. (Do not insert a diskette at this point.
1-18 Setting Up Your System
Chapter 2 Running the Setup Program The first time you use your Equity 386SX, you need to run the Setup program on the Reference diskette to define the computer’s configuration. This is a simple procedure you must do at least once. (You may need to do it again later, if you change the configuration.
Starting the Setup Program Follow these steps to start the Setup program: 1. Turn off your computer, monitor, and any peripheral devices, if you have not already done so. 2. Insert the Reference diskette into drive A with the label facing up and the metal shutter leading into the drive, as shown below: Slide the diskette into the drive until it clicks into place. (For more instructions on inserting and removing diskettes, see Chapter 3.
3. Turn on your system. (Remember to turn on your monitor and any peripherals before you turn on the computer.) The screen displays the Operation Menu: OPERATION MENU 1 2 3 4 - Setup Format hard disk System diagnostics Prepare hard disk for moving 0 - Exit to DOS for more utilities Note If an error message appears when you rum on the computer, see “Continuing From an Error Message,” below. 4. The Setup option is highlighted. To select it, press Enter.
Continuing From an Error Message If your computer has never been set up, you may see an error message, such as the following: 162 - System options not set (Run SETUP in REFERENCE DISK) (Resume = "F1" key) If you see an error message like this one, follow these steps to proceed: 1. Press F1. The computer beeps and the screen displays messages, such as the following: !!!!! Error(s) detected !!!!! The error message following the diamond indicates the condition causing the error.
Some errors, such as Time i s invalid, do not allow you to set a default value, so the screen does not display the Set default value prompt. If you see one of these errors, press ESC; the screen displays the main Setup menu so you can enter a new setting. Note If you see the message Real-time clock has l o s t power, contact your Epson dealer. You cannot correct this error using the Setup program. 2. Be sure Y is highlighted and press Enter.
Moving the Cursor Block Use 4 and ? to move the cursor block (the highlighted bar) through the options on the main Setup menu. After you highlight the option you want, you can press Enter to select it. Note If the arrow keys on the numeric keypad do not appear to work, Num Lock mode may be enabled. If the Num Lock indicator in the upper right corner of the keyboard is lit, press the Num Lock key once to disable Num Lock mode. and enable the arrow keys on the numeric keypad.
1. At the main Setup menu, highlight Display. You see the current display adapter card type, such as the following: Monochrome 80 column If the display adapter card type is correct for your system, you can skip this section. 2. To change the display adapter card setting, press Enter.
Ll If you have a composite color monitor, such as a color television with a video input, try selecting CGA 8 0 column. If the resulting resolution is poor, run Setup again and select CGA 40 column. Cl If you have a monochrome display adapter (MDA), an MGA, or a Hercules MGA attached to a monochrome monitor, choose Monochrome 80 column. (Also be sure to set the color/mono switch on the MGA card to mono.) LI If you have any other combination of monitor and display adapter card, select Special Adapter.
If you want to use your computer as a network server, you must turn on network server mode. (A network server is the master computer in a network which provides storage space for the other computers connected to it. The network server can write files to and read files from the other computers in the network.) To turn on network server mode, you must set a power-on password. If you do not want to set a power-on password or turn on network server mode, skip this section.
To enter a password, type any combination of characters (including letters, numbers, and blank spaces) up to a total of seven characters. Use the backspace key to delete mistakes. Do not use characters requiring the SHIFT key, such as $, @, or *, in your password. The Equity 386SX does not recognize the SHIFT key when you use your password to access the system. WARNING Be sure to remember the password you enter or write it down and keep it in a safe place.
Note If you forget your password, there is a way to disable the password function. See “Password Problems” in Appendix A for instructions. Setting the Fast Boot Function The Fast boot function allows you to start up your system faster by reducing the time it takes the computer to perform its poweron diagnostics. Power-on diagnostics are a series of diagnostics checks which your computer runs automatically each time you turn on the power.
Follow these steps to change the Fast boot setting: 1. At the main Setup menu, highlight Fast boot and press Enter. The current status appears: enabled Fast boot ** SAVE SETTING ** If the displayed setting is correct, press ? to return to the main Setup menu. 2. To change the setting from enabled to disabled or vice versa, press Enter. 3. Highlight * * SAVE SETTING * * and press Enter to return to the main Setup menu.
When Auto speed is enabled, the computer automatically switches to low speed whenever it needs to access a diskette drive. It runs at high speed for all other operations. There are different types of copy-protected programs. Depending on the type you have, you may or may not want to enable the Auto speed function. Follow these guidelines: Cl If you are using a copy-protected program that can run only on a diskette or that requires a key disk, try to start the program on high speed.
2. To change the setting from disabled or vice versa, press Enter. to enabled 3. Highlight * * SAVE SETTING ** and press Enter to return to the main Setup menu. Setting the Real-time Clock The real-time clock in your Equity 386SX constantly tracks the time and date-even when the computer is turned off. The first time you run the Setup program, you use the Real-time clock option to set the time and date for your computer.
If the time and date are incorrect, go to step 2 below. If the time and date have never been set, the submenu contains a template for you to fill in: Go to step 2 to enter the time and date. 2. Press Enter to move the cursor block into the submenu. 3. To set or change the time, press Enter again. You see this prompt: 4. Using a 24-hour time period, enter the time in the exact format shown in the box. Type two digits for each part; the Setup program automatically inserts the colons ( : ).
If you enter an invalid time-for example, a number greater than 23 for the hours or greater than 59 for the minutes or seconds-the computer beeps and ignores your entry. Try again. When the time is correct, press Enter. 5. To set or change the date, highlight Date and press Enter. You see this prompt: 6. Enter the date in the exact format shown in the box. Use two digits for the month and day and four digits for the year; the Setup program automatically inserts the dashes.
Note The Setup program automatically saves the time and date when you press Enter after typing-each one. If you change the time or date and then exit the Setup program without saving your changes, the new time and date still take effect. Setting the Hard Disk Drive Configuration If your computer came with a 40MB or 100MB hard disk, your computer’s hard disk configuration has already been set for you at the factory and you can skip this section.
2. To select Hard disk drive, press Enter. You see a menu such as the following: Change settings ** SAVE SETTINGS ** Drive 1: Type 17 Number of cylinders Number of heads Number of sectors Precomp. cylinder Landing zone Total capacity (MB) Drive 2: 977 5 17 300 971 40.5 None Number of cylinders Number of heads Number of sectors Precomp. cylinder Landing zone Total capacity (MB) 0 0 0 0 0 .
If you want to change the drive types, and the configuration of the hard disk you are installing does not match one of the drive types listed in Appendix E, go to step 7. If you have disconnected the drive or if the drive does not exist, highlight None and press Enter. All the drive settings become 0. Go to step 8.
You can enter the drive type in one of two ways: Cl You can type the drive type number (listed in Appendix E) and press Enter. The screen displays the new drive type number and hard disk settings. (You cannot type 00 or a drive type number that has more than three digits.
7. If the configuration of the hard disk you are installing does not match one of the drive types listed in Appendix E, highlight User defined and press Enter. You see the following: Number of cylinders 977 I The same parameter is highlighted on the submenu above. Enter the correct number of cylinders (tracks) for the disk and press Enter. Note If you use the number keys on the numeric keypad to enter parameters, press the Num Lock key to enable Num Lock mode.
8. If you want to change the hard disk settings for drive 2, press -+ and return to step 4. 9. When the hard disk drive settings are correct, press ? to move the cursor block into the top submenu. Highlight ** SAVE SETTINGS * * and press Enter to save your hard disk drive configuration. The main Setup menu appears. Setting the Diskette Drive Type(s) Your Equity 386SX comes with one factory-installed diskette drive.
2. Press Enter. The cursor block moves into the diskette drive submenu and you see the following: Not 360 720 1.2 1.44 installed KB drive KB drive (3.5") MB drive MB drive (3.5") 3. If you want to change the drive A settings, be sure Drive A : is highlighted and press Enter. If you want to change the drive B settings, highlight Drive B : and press Enter. The cursor block moves into the submenu. 4. Use 1 or ? to highlight the correct type for your diskette drive and press Enter.
Setting the Serial and Parallel Interfaces The serial and parallel interfaces in your computer are set up to act as the primary ports. If these are the only ports you are using in your computer, you can skip this section. If you install an option card with its own serial or parallel port, however, you may want to designate the built-in port as secondary and the additional port as primary.
2. Press Enter to move the cursor block into the submenu. You see: 3. If you want to change the serial port setting, be sure S e r i a l is highlighted and press Enter. If you want to change the parallel port setting, highlight Parallel and press Enter. The cursor block moves into the submenu. ig th th e appropriate setting for the port 4. Use L or t to highl’ you selected and press Enter. The screen displays the new setting.
Reviewing Your Settings When you finish using the Setup program to define your computer’s configuration, press ‘? to highlight Exit at the main Setup menu and press Enter.
If you have never set the real-time clock, the real-time clock entry at the top of the screen flashes to remind you to set the time and date. To view the last Setup summary screen, press PgDn. You see your hard disk configuration(s): Hard disk drive Drive 1: Type Drive 2: 17 Number of cylinders Number of heads Number of sectors Precomp. cylinder Landing zone Total capacity (MB) 977 5 17 300 977 40.5 None Number of cylinders Number of heads Number of sectors Precomp.
Leaving the Setup Menu If you want to save the settings you entered, highlight ** EXIT AND SAVE * * and press Enter at a Setup summary screen. The Setup program stores the new settings and resets the computer using the new configuration. If you have set a password, you need to enter it at the key prompt. (See “Using a Power-on Password” in Chapter 3 for instructions.) The Operation Menu appears. Press 0 and Enter to exit the Operation Menu.
Adding an Optional Memory Card The first Setup summary screen shows the current amount of memory installed in your system. The Equity 386SX comes with 1MB of on-board memory. (On-board memory is memory that resides on the computer’s main system board.) Setup automatically configures this memory as 640KB of base memory and 384KB of extended memory. If you install even more memory, Setup configures it as extended memory also.
The addresses of the gap or overlap are shown in hexadecimal numbers. (Hexadecimal is a base-16 numbering system used in programming.) The message tells you the starting and ending addresses of the gap or overlap and recommends two starting addresses for the memory you added on the memory card. The first recommended starting address is the starting address of the 384KB of on-board extended memory. The second recommended starting address is the ending address of that 384KB of memory.
2-32 Running the Setup Program
Chapter 3 Using the Equity 386SX This chapter describes the following procedures for using your Equity 386SX computer: 0 Installing MS-DOS CI Using a power-on password Cl Selecting the operating speed Cl Using special keys on the keyboard CI Stopping a command or program L! Resetting the computer Cl Using disks and disk drives 0 Turning off the computer. Installing MS-DOS After you connect the components of your system and run the Setup program, you must install MS-DOS.
In addition, be sure to make a backup copy of your Reference diskette; MS-DOS does not create one for you. See “Making Backup Copies” in this chapter and “Backing Up Data” in Chapter 4 for instructions on how to copy diskettes. Using a Power-on Password If you set a power-on password when you ran the Setup program, you must enter it every time you turn on or reset the computer. (See “Resetting the Computer” later in this chapter for instructions on how to reset the computer.) Follow these steps: 1.
You have three chances to enter the correct password. If you do not enter the correct password at the first or second key prompt, another key prompt appears. If you do not enter the correct password at the third key prompt, the screen displays a 0. The keyboard locks up and you cannot use the computer. You may reset the computer and try to enter the correct password again. Note If you do not know the correct password, see “Password Problems” in Appendix A.
WARNING Be sure to remember the new power-on password you enter or write it down and keep it in a safe place. If you cannot remember the password you enter now, you will not be able to access your computer the next time you turn it on. 3. Press Enter. A happy face character appears and then the computer loads MS-DOS. To access the computer the next time you turn it on or reset it, you must enter the new power-on password.
Selecting the Operating Speed The Equity 386SX can operate at two speeds: high and low. High speed is 16 MHz and low speed simulates 8 MHz. On high, the computer can access memory faster than on low. You will probably use high speed for almost everything you do. However, certain application programs have specific timing requirements for diskette access and can run only at the slower speed. See the manual for your application program to determine if this is the case.
Special Keys on the Equity 386SX Keyboard Certain keys on your keyboard serve special functions when your computer is running MS-DOS or application programs. The following illustration shows the Equity 386SX keyboard, and the table that follows describes the special keys. Key functions 3-6 Key Purpose Tab It Tab +I Moves the cursor one tab to the right in normal mode and one tab to the left in shift mode.
Key Purpose t Backspace Moves the cursor back one space, deleting the character to the left of the cursor. J Enter Ends a line of keyboard input or executes a command. Insert (Ins) Turns the Insert function on and off. Delete (Del) Deletes the character marked by the cursor. Home, End Page UP (PgUp) Page Down (PgDn) Tel+ Control cursor location. Num Lock Changes the function of the numeric/cursor keys from entering numbers to positioning the cursor; changes back when pressed again.
Stopping a Command or Program You may sometimes need to stop a command or program while it is running. Many application programs provide a command you can use to cancel or even undo an operation. If you have entered an MS-DOS command that you want to stop, try one of the following commands: 0 Hold down the Ctrl key and press C Q Hold down the Ctrl key and press Break. These methods may also work in your application program.
WARNING Do not reset the computer to exit a program unless you have to. Some application programs classify and store new data when you exit the program. If you reset the computer without properly exiting the program, you may lose data. To reset the computer, MS-DOS must be either on the hard disk or on a diskette in drive A; so if your computer does not have a hard disk, insert the Startup diskette in drive A. There are three ways to reset.
This section explains how disks work and tells you how to do the following: Cl Use different types of diskettes and diskette drives 0 Care for your diskettes and diskette drives Cl Insert and remove diskettes 0 Write-protect diskettes Make backup copies of your diskettes Li Use a single diskette drive Ll Use two diskette drives Cl Use a hard disk drive. How Disks Store Data The diskette you insert in your computer’s diskette drive is made of flexible plastic coated with magnetic material.
Because a hard disk consists of two or more platters stacked on top of one another, it has four or more sides with many more tracks per side than a diskette. (The number of tracks depends on the capacity of the hard disk. You do not need to know how many sides and tracks your hard disk has.) A disk is further divided by sectors. To understand what a sector is, picture the spokes on a bicycle wheel radiating from the center of the wheel to the tire.
Your computer uses the read/write heads in a disk drive to store and retrieve data on a disk. To write to a disk, the computer spins it in the drive to position the area on the disk where the data is to be written under the read/write head. A diskette has an exposed area where the read/write head can access it. Because data is stored magnetically, you can retrieve it, record over it, and erase it-just as you play, record, and erase music on a cassette tape.
D 360KB drive-With this drive, use 5 l/4-inch, double-sided, double-density, 48 TPI (tracks per inch), 360KB diskettes. (You can also use single-sided, 160KB or 180KB diskettes.) These diskettes contain 40 tracks per side, 8 or 9 sectors per track, and hold up to 360KB of information, which is approximately 150 pages of text. (With 8 sectors per track, a diskette holds up to 320KB.) Note Before you can use them with MS-DOS, you must format new diskettes using the MS-DOS FORMAT command.
5 ‘Ivinch drive/diskette compatibility Drive type Diskette types it can read from and write to 360KB 160KB, 180KB, 320KB, 360KB 1.2MB 160KB, 180KB, 320KB, 360KB, 1.2MB WARNING If you write to a 360KB (or 160KB, 180KB, or 320KB) diskette in a 1.2MB drive, you may nut be able to read it or write to it in a 360KB drive later. Because of these incompatibilities, always indicate the diskette type and density when you label your diskettes. (Usually this information appears on the manufacturer’s label.
Keep diskettes away from dust and dirt. Small particles of dust or dirt can scratch the magnetic surface, destroy data, and ruin the read/write heads in a diskette drive. Never wipe, brush, or try to clean diskettes in any way. Keep diskettes in a moderate environment. They work best at normal room temperature and in normal humidity. Don’t leave diskettes sitting in the sun, or in extreme cold or heat. Keep diskettes away from magnetic fields. (Remember that diskettes store information magnetically.
For a 5 l/4-inch diskette, it is best to write on a label before you attach it to a diskette. If you need to write on a label that is already on a 5 ‘/q-inch diskette, use only a soft-tip pen-not a ballpoint pen or a pencil. Store diskettes in a proper location, such as a diskette container. Do not store diskettes flat or stack them on top of each other. If you use any 5 l/4-inch diskettes, store them in their protective envelopes.
If you have a 5 ‘/+inch diskette drive, hold the diskette with the label facing up and the read/write slot leading into the drive. Slide the diskette into the slot until it is in all the way. Then turn the latch down to lock it in a vertical position. This keeps the diskette in place and enables the read/write heads in the diskette drive to access the diskette. To remove the diskette, turn the latch up until it is horizontal and the edge of the diskette pops out.
Write-protecting Diskettes You can write-protect a diskette to prevent its data from being altered. When a diskette is write-protected, you can read it and copy data from it, but you cannot store new data on the diskette or delete any files it contains. If you try to change data stored on a write-protected diskette, MS-DOS displays an error message. On a 3 ‘/I-inch diskette, the write-protect device is a small switch on the back of the diskette in the lower right corner, shown below.
Note Some program diskettes, such as your MS-DOS diskettes and your Reference diskette, have no switch so they are permanently write-protected. This protects them from being accidentally erased or altered. It is a good idea to writeprotect the backup copies you make of your MS-DOS and Reference diskettes. To write-protect a 5 %-inch diskette, cover the small, rectangular notch (shown below) with an adhesive writeprotect tab. Write-protect tabs usually come with new 5 ‘/.+-inch diskettes when you buy them.
Making Backup Copies It is important to make copies of all your data and system diskettes. Make backup (or working) copies contain programs, such as the original MS-DOS and Reference diskettes that come with the Equity 386SX, and use only the copies. Store the original diskettes in a safe place away from your working diskettes. Copy your data diskettes regularly, whenever you revise them, to keep them up-to-date, and store them away from your originals.
Using a Single Diskette Drive MS-DOS expects the computer to have at least two diskette drives, and it displays prompts and messages accordingly. If your system has a single diskette drive, MS-DOS treats your one drive like two logical drives. This helps you perform operations that normally require two diskette drives. Usually, MS-DOS recognizes the first diskette drive (the top drive on the Equity 386SX) as drive A and a second diskette drive as B.
Using Two Diskette Drives If you have two diskette drives, you can use the top drive (A) for loading the operating system and application programs and the second drive (B) for creating data. If you have a hard disk, you will probably need the diskette drives just to copy files to and from the hard disk and to copy diskettes. Note You can load MS-DOS from an application program diskette if that diskette contains the MS-DOS system files.
Note The MS-DOS Shell program is a menu-driven program which makes it easy for you to move, create, delete, and rename files and directories, as well as view files and execute commands. See your MS-DOS Shell User’s Guide for instructions. If your Equity 386SX has a hard disk drive, follow these precautions to protect it from damage and to avoid losing data: 0 Never turn off the computer when the hard disk drive light is on. This light indicates that the computer is copying data to or from the hard disk.
Backing up the hard disk While the hard disk is very reliable, it is essential to back up your hard disk files to diskettes in case you lose some data accidentally. Make copies of all your system and application diskettes before copying the programs to the hard disk. After you create data files on the hard disk, be sure to copy them to diskettes whenever you revise them to keep your backup diskettes up-to-date.
You see a message on the screen that tells you the disk drive’s read/write heads will remain locked until you reset the computer or turn the power off and on again. The computer locks the heads and disables the keyboard. You can now turn off the computer and prepare to move it to the new location. Turning Off the Computer Before you turn off your computer, save your data, exit the program you are using, and remove any diskettes from the diskette drives.
-. 7.
Chapter 4 Using MS-DOS with Your Equity 386SX Your Equity 386SX comes with version 4.01 of MS-DOS. This operating system manages your computer by organizing the computer’s memory, controlling the monitor display, receiving keyboard input, and accessing data. How much you need to know about MS-DOS depends on how you will be using your computer. If you plan to use it just to run application programs, the few MS-DOS commands you’ll need are introduced in this chapter.
Ll Using the Epson MENU program Ll Using an AUTOEXEC.BAT file Ll Using memory beyond 640KB. Starting MS-DOS Before you can run an MS-DOS application program, MS-DOS must be loaded in the computer’s memory. If you have a hard disk and you installed MS-DOS according to the instructions in your MS-DOS Installation Guide, the computer loads MS-DOS automatically after you turn on the power (provided no diskette is in the diskette drive).
Note Before you turn off the computer, be sure to exit any application program you are using. The screen should display the Shell Start Programs Menu or the MS-DOS command prompt. Then remove your diskettes (if any), turn off the computer, and turn off any peripherals. Using Drive Designators MS-DOS uses letters known as drive designators to identify the disk drives in your computer. If you have one diskette drive, it is known as drive A.
The Current Drive At any given time, MS-DOS considers one disk drive to be the current (or default) drive. The current drive is the drive on which MS-DOS executes your next command, unless you tell it to do otherwise. For example, if the current drive is C, and you enter the DIR (directory) command, MS-DOS lists the files stored on drive C. If the current drive is A and you type WP and press Enter, MS-DOS looks on drive A for a file called WP and executes the instructions in that file.
Specifying the drive designator If you want to access a program or file on another drive without first changing the current drive, type the drive designator along with the filename. For example, if you are logged onto drive A and want to use a file named PROGRAM on drive B, type B : PROGRAM and press Enter. MS-DOS loads and executes the file named PROGRAM from drive B but stays logged onto drive A. Types of MS-DOS Commands Each MS-DOS command is either internal or external.
If you do not have a hard disk, external commands are stored on the set of working diskettes generated when you installed MS-DOS. To use an external MS-DOS command, you must insert the diskette containing that command into a diskette drive. To find out which external commands are on which diskettes, see the list of working diskette contents in your MS-DOS Installation Guide. For example, if you want to use the FORMAT command, you must insert the Startup diskette into a diskette drive.
Entering an MS-DOS Command To enter an MS-DOS command, you need to type the command in the correct format. The command format provides MS-DOS with the information needed to perform a task. The MS-DOS command format consists of the command name, parameters, and delimiters. The command name tells MS-DOS the task you want the computer to perform. Parameters specify information such as what data you want to process and where to locate or store a file.
See your MS-DOS Reference Manual for more information on the command format and for command descriptions that explain which parameters and delimiters are required and which parameters and switches are optional for each command. You can enter an MS-DOS command whenever you see the MS-DOS command prompt. Type the command name and any parameters and delimiters. You can type command names and parameters in either uppercase or lowercase letters. Then press Enter to execute the command.
You can also use the Setup program on your Reference diskette to set the correct time and date, See “Setting the Real-time Clock” in Chapter 2 for instructions. Creating and Managing Files All your data and programs are stored in files on disk. A data file contains information, such as words, numbers, or pictures. A program file contains coded instructions that the computer can understand and execute. The kind of file you create depends on the MS-DOS command or application program you use to create it.
The extension is optional and can be up to three characters long. You can use the extension to further identify a file or to describe what type of file it is, such as a text file or program file. When you use an extension, separate it from the filename with a period, like this: DATA.TXT Do not use uppercase and lowercase letters to distinguish between files. MS-DOS does not recognize the difference and displays all filenames in uppercase.
Copying Files You can use the COPY command to copy individual files or groups of files. COPY is an internal command; you can use it any time you see the MS-DOS command prompt. You can use the COPY command to copy files in several ways: Ll You can copy individual files from one disk to another CI You can copy a group of files using wildcard characters CI You can copy one or more files and give them new names D You can combine or merge files into one file.
To copy the file named REPORT to the same drive or directory and name the copy FACTS, type the following and press Enter: COPY REPORT FACTS Now you have two files on the current drive that have the same contents but different names. In this example, you can omit the drive designators because the original file and the copy are both on the current drive. You can use wildcard characters to copy a group of files. There are two wildcard characters: * and ?.
To copy REPORT, FACTS, and MEMO from drive A to a file named DATA on drive B, type the following and press Enter: COPY A:REPORT + A:FACTS + A:MEMO B:DATA Remember these rules when using the COPY command: Cl MS-DOS must be able to find the original file and know where to store the copy; that is, you may need to specify the drive (and directory, if necessary) for one or both. Cl You cannot create a new file with the same name and in the same directory as an existing file.
Renaming Files You can use the RENAME command to change the name of a file or group of files on the same disk and directory. For example, to rename a file named PROSPECT (in the current directory) to CLIENT, type the following and press Enter: RENAME PROSPECT CLIENT You can shorten the RENAME command to REN. For example, to change the name of a file from HAMMERS to WRENCHES, you can type the following and press Enter: REN HAMMERS WRENCHES You can use wildcards to rename groups of files.
Deleting Files You can delete files you no longer need with the DEL (delete) command. For example, to delete REPORT.AUG from drive C, type the following and press Enter: DEL C:REPORT.AUG To delete the file WRENCHES from drive C, type the following and press Enter: DEL C:WRENCHES To display a prompt asking you to confirm that you want to delete the file before MS-DOS deletes it, use the /P switch.
Printing Text Files If you have a printer attached to your computer, you can print text files with the PRINT command. In general, you will probably use application programs to print files, but if you need to print a text file from the MS-DOS command prompt, follow the steps below. To print a text file named STATS.NBA on drive C: 1. Make sure your printer is on and ready to print. 2. At the MS-DOS command prompt, type the following and press Enter: PRINT C:STATS.
Directories are essential for organizing files on a hard disk, and you might even want to create directories on a 1.44MB diskette. However, you may not need to create directories if you use lower capacity diskettes-especially if the diskette contains only a few large files. Whenever you format a disk, MS-DOS automatically creates one main directory. This directory is called the root directory.
This directory tree lets you separate business word processing files from personal word processing files, and sales spreadsheets from spreadsheet files used for financial projections. Your directory structure may be as simple as this example or much more complex. Organize your disk(s) to suit your needs. As your needs change, you can modify the structure by deleting old directories and creating new ones. Here are some additional points about directories: Name subdirectories the same way you name files.
The Current Directory MS-DOS always recognizes one directory as the current (or default) directory, just as it always recognizes one drive as the current drive. The current directory is the directory you are logged onto at the time and the one in which MS-DOS performs your commands, unless you tell it to do otherwise. If you installed MS-DOS according to the instructions in your MS-DOS Installation Guide, the MS-DOS command prompt displays the current directory.
Using Pathnames You use pathnames with MS-DOS commands to tell MS-DOS how to find its way to the directory you want to access. Backslashes separate the directories in a pathname. There are two types of pathnames: absolute and relative. An absolute pathname begins with a backslash and tells MS-DOS how to find its way to the desired directory from the root directory. A relative pathname does not begin with a backslash and tells MS-DOS how to find its way to the desired directory from the current directory.
You can use either relative or absolute pathnames at any time, as long as you give MS-DOS enough information to find the directory or file at the end of the pathname. Including Filenames With Pathnames You can use a pathname when you want to access a file that is not in the current directory. You specify the name of the file you want to access at the end of the pathname, like this: TYPE \WORDPROC\PERSONAL\JEAN1204.
drive C, the root directory was the current directory. Now you are logged onto drive A and you enter the following command to delete the file JEAN1204.DOC: DEL C:JEAN1204.DOC MS-DOS tries to find the file you want in the root directory of drive C. Because the file is not there, an error message appears on the screen. You need to enter the complete pathname in such a case. If you do not know which is the current directory on another drive, it is best to include the full pathname whether or not you need it.
Creating Directories You use the MKDIR command to create directories. For example, to create a LEDGER directory under the root directory of the current drive, type the following and press Enter: MKDIR \LEDGER You can abbreviate the name of this command to MD.
A directory listing includes the following information about each file in the directory: Cl Name and extension D Size of the file in bytes tl Date and time the file was created or last modified (whichever is later). The directory listing also shows any subdirectories in the directory; they are identified by the letters
.This switch displays a wide-format directory listing, like this: Volume in drive C is MEMODRIVE Volume Serial Number is 354C-12E9 Directory of C:\WORDPROC\PERSONAL LETTERS RESUME.713 BOOKRPRT .. 15013560 bytes free 5 File(s) This type of listing does not show the size of a file or the time and date it was last modified. To list the contents of a different drive or directory, include the appropriate drive designator and/or pathname in the command.
The screen displays a tree diagram of the subdirectories of the current directory, for example: C:\LEDGER RECEIV PAYABL SALES SALE1989 t SALE1990 To see a list of all the files in the subdirectories, add the /F switch, like this: TREE /F The screen displays the directory information shown above and the names of all the files in each subdirectory: C:\LEDGER NOVRECV DECRECV NOVSALES.RPT DECSALES.
To see the list of subdirectories of another directory, include the pathname: TREE C:\WORDPROC Removing Directories You may sometimes want to remove directories you no longer need. However, before you can delete a directory, it must be empty. If it contains any files or subdirectories, MS-DOS displays an error message and does not delete the directory. (Use the DEL command to delete the files in a directory or the COPY command to move them to another directory.
You can reformat previously used diskettes. This process erases all data on the diskette, so be sure you do not want to save any of the data on a used diskette before you format it. If you plan to use a new diskette to make a backup copy of another diskette, you do not need to use the FORMAT command to format it first. The DISKCOPY command automatically formats a blank diskette if it has never been formatted. (See “Using the DISKCOPY Command,” later in this chapter.
3. If necessary, remove the Startup diskette from drive A. Insert the diskette you want to format in drive A and press Enter to start formatting. 4. When the diskette is formatted, you see this message: Format complete Volume label (11 characters, ENTER for none)? 5. At the Volume label prompt, you can enter a name to describe the information the diskette will contain. The name (the volume label) will appear whenever you view the contents of a directory on the diskette using the DIR command.
Formatting a diskette to 720KE3 If you want to format a diskette to a capacity of 720KB in your 1.44MB diskette drive, you need to use a switch with the FORMAT command. The /F:size switch tells the FORMAT command to format the diskette as the size specified in the command even if the capacity of the diskette drive is different. You can format a 1.44MB or a 720KB diskette to a capacity of 720KB using this switch. For example, to format a 720KB diskette in your 1.
Ll You can use the BACKUP command to back up hard disk files to diskettes. Because BACKUP can split large files across two or more diskettes, it makes more efficient use of diskette space than COPY or XCOPY. It also allows you to back up files that are larger than the capacity of your diskettes. To access files created with BACKUP, you use the RESTORE command. DISKCOPY, BACKUP, and RESTORE are described below. “Copying Files,” earlier in this chapter, describes the COPY command.
Using DISKCOPY with one diskette drive 1. Make sure the diskette you want to copy is write-protected. (See Chapter 3 for instructions.) 2. If you don’t have a hard disk, insert your Startup diskette into drive A. 3. If you have a hard disk, type C : and press Enter to log onto drive C. If you do not have a hard disk, type A : and press Enter to log onto drive A. 4.
7. After DISKCOPY copies the data from memory to the target diskette, the screen prompts you to insert the source diskette again to copy the remaining data to the computer’s memory (if necessary). Insert the source diskette into drive A and press any key. 8. After DISKCOPY copies the rest of the source diskette’s data to the computer’s memory, the screen prompts you to insert the target diskette again to copy the remaining data from memory to it. Insert the target diskette and press any key.
4. If necessary, remove the Startup diskette from drive A. Insert the diskette you want to copy from (the source diskette) into drive A and the diskette you want to copy to (the target diskette) into drive B. Then press any key to begin copying. If the target diskette is not formatted, DISKCOPY formats it before copying data to it. 5. When the copy is complete, you see this message: Copy another diskette (Y/N)? Press Y to copy another diskette or N to return to the MS-DOS command prompt.
Make sure you have enough diskettes to back up the data on your hard disk drive. For example, it takes about 30 1.44MB diskettes to copy a 40MB hard disk partition that is completely full. See your MS-DOS Reference Manual for complete instructions on using BACKUP and RESTORE. The MS-DOS Shell Program The MS-DOS Shell program allows you to execute many MS-DOS commands and programs by selecting options from menus. Using the MS-DOS Shell, you can run commands without having to remember their exact syntax.
0 If you want information about more than one command you can type HELP followed by the names of the commands, each separated by a space. To use the HELP program, follow these steps: 1. If you don’t have a hard disk, make sure your Working diskette is in drive A. 2. If necessary, type A : and press Enter to log onto drive A. 3. If you want to use the HELP menu, type HELP and press Enter. Use the cursor keys to highlight the command you want information about and press Enter.
If there is yet another screen of text, you see both PgUp and PgDn at the top. Press PgUp to display the next screen of text or PgDn to see the previous screen. On the last page of text you see only PgDn at the top. 5. If you used the HELP menu to chose your help information, press ESC to return to the menu. If you requested information about more than one MS-DOS command in the HELP command line, press ESC to see information about the next command. 6. Press ESC to exit the HELP program.
3. To select an option, use the arrow keys to highlight the option you want and press Enter. Most options contain submenus; keep highlighting your selection and pressing Enter until you select the desired operation. MENU works by calling external commands which it looks for on the current disk or path. If you do not have a hard disk and the diskette in the current drive does not contain a command called by MENU-for example, BACKUP.
MENU Program Options Following is a description of each MENU option. Your MS-DOS Reference Manual provides step-by-step instructions for using each option. File Utilities Lets you back up and restore files, replace files, compare files, change file attributes, and copy files and directories. This option does the work of the MS-DOS commands BACKUP, RESTORE, REPLACE, FC, ATTRIB, and XCOPY. Disk Utilities Lets you check, copy, compare, and format diskettes.
Using an AUTOEXEC.BAT File You may want to run some commands every time you turn on your computer. To run a command or a series of commands automatically upon startup, you can type the commands in a special file called AUTOEXEC.BAT. When you load MS-DOS, it always looks for this file. If MS-DOS finds an AUTOEXEC.BAT file in the root directory, it executes the commands in that file. Here are some tasks you can perform using an AUTOEXEC.
If you have a hard disk and you installed MS-DOS according to the instructions in your MS-DOS Installation Guide, MS-DOS automatically sets a path to the directory that contains the MS-DOS commands and the MS-DOS command prompt displays the current drive and directory. Creating an AUTOEXEC.BAT File Here is an example of an AUTOEXEC.
You can also use the MS-DOS COPY or EDLIN command to create an AUTOEXEC.BAT file. Follow these steps to create an AUTOEXEC.BAT file with the COPY command: 1. If you are creating an AUTOEXEC.BAT file on your hard disk, log onto the root directory of your hard disk. (Type CD C : \ and press Enter.) If you are creating an AUTOEXEC.BAT file on your Startup diskette, insert the Startup diskette into drive A and log onto that drive. 2.
Using Memory Beyond 640 KB The Equity 386SX comes with 1MB of random access memory. MS-DOS and your application programs that run under MS-DOS use the first 640KB of memory. You can use the memory between 640KB and 1MB as extended or expanded memory. If your computer has more than 1MB of random access memory on SIMMS you can also use this additional memory as extended or expanded memory.
3. Type DEVICE=EMM386.SY S and press Enter. You can add one or more of the optional switches explained in the next section to this command line. 4. Press F6 and then Enter. 5. Reset the computer. Using EMM386.SYS EMM386SYS is an expanded memory manager that lets you use extended memory to emulate expanded memory so that you can use application programs that support LIM EMS. Note Do not use EMM386.SYS if you installed an expanded memory option card. Use the device driver that came with the memory card.
The size parameter allows you to specify the amount of extended memory to be used as expanded memory. You specify the amount of memory in kilobytes. If you do not specify a size, the default value is 256KB. This example tells the computer to use 1024KB of extended memory as expanded memory: DEVICE=EMM386.SYS 1024 The X:mmmm-nnnn parameter specifies a range of memory to exclude from the EMM386.SYS command in hexadecimal notation. EMM386.
The Mx parameter specifies a particular address for the EMM386.SYS page frame. You specify the address by substituting a code for x from this table: I x I Page frame begins at segment For example, if you want EMM386.SYS to locate its page frame at the address C800, include this command in your CONFIG.SYS file: DEVICE=EMM386.SYS M2 Do not use the Mx parameter unless you need to force EMM386.SYS to use a particular address.
Chapter 5 Installing Options You can enhance the performance of your Equity 386SX by adding a variety of options, including the following: Cl An 80387SX math coprocessor Ll Memory modules Cl A memory card Cl Other option cards. A math coprocessor speeds up the numeric calculations your computer performs when using certain application software. If you want to install a math coprocessor in your computer, ask your authorized Epson dealer to do it for you.
Adding Memory Modules The standard Equity 386SX system comes with 1MB of onboard memory. You can add SIMMs (single inline memory modules) to increase the amount of memory in the computer. With added SIMMs, the total amount of memory in your computer must be one of the following: 2MB, 4MB, 6MB, 8MB, 10MB, 12MB, or 14MB. You install SIMMs on the SIMM card that comes with your computer. Any SIMMs you install must have 70ns (nanosecond) access speed or faster to operate in the Equity 386SX.
Two sockets in each bank accept only 256KB SIMMs. These sockets are labelled 7A, 8A, 12A, and 13A. The rest of the sockets accept only 1MB SIMMs. You must fill all of the 256KB SIMM sockets before using any of the 1MB sockets. SIMMs must be distributed evenly between the two banks. For example, if you want to have 4MB of memory, install two 256KB SIMMs and one 1MB SIMM in the left bank and two 256KB SIMMs and one 1MB SIMM in the right bank. You cannot install both of the 1MB SIMMs in just one of the banks.
Installing Option Cards The Equity 386SX has five standard option slots and one special option slot occupied by the card that controls the serial and parallel interfaces (known as the SP card). The video card that controls your monitor occupies one standard slot. You can buy additional option cards from authorized Epson dealers as well as other vendors. If you want additional memory, you can install a memory card in your computer. (You can install a memory card whether or not you have already added SIMMs.
Removing the Cover To install an option card, you need to remove the cover from your Equity 386SX. Follow these steps: 1. Turn off the computer and then any peripherals (including the monitor and printer) that are attached to it. 2. Disconnect the computer’s power cable from the electrical outlet and from the back panel. Then disconnect any peripheral cables that are connected to the computer. 3. Disconnect the keyboard. 4. If the monitor is on top of the computer, lift it off and set it to one side.
6. Facing the front panel, grasp the two sides of the cover and carefully pull it straight toward you and away from the back of the computer (as shown in the following illustration), until it is a few inches away from the back panel.
7. After the cover’s front panel clears the power button and the diskette drive, you can lift off the cover. Separate the cover’s sides from the inside of the computer by pulling them outward slightly, as shown below. Then lift off the cover and set it aside.
Installing an Option Card The illustration below shows the five standard option slots inside the Equity 386SX. (The SP card occupies a special additional slot, number 6.
Slot 5 is designed for an 8-bit option card, and slots 1 through 4 are designed for 16-bit cards. As you can see below, a 16-bit card has a second connector along the bottom. 8-bit option card 16-bit option card Usually, it does not matter which slot an option card occupies as long as the card fits in the slot. For example, you can place some 8-bit cards in a 16-bit slot.
Follow these steps to install an option card: 1. Decide which slot you want to use. Then remove the retaining screw from the top of the metal option slot cover; hold on to the screw as you remove it so it doesn’t fall into the computer. Lift out the slot cover. Keep the screw to secure the option card to the computer. Store the slot cover in a safe place in case you remove the option card later.
2. Unpack the option card and adjust any switches or jumpers on it if necessary. (Check the option card instructions to see if this is necessary.) When you handle the card, be careful not to touch any of the contacts on the circuit board, especially the gold-edged connector pins. If you need to set it down before you install it, place it gently on top of its original packing material with the component side facing up. Keep the packing materials in case you remove the card later. 3.
4. Insert the card in the slot, guiding it straight down. Once the connector pins reach the connector slot, push the card downward firmly (but carefully) to fully insert it, as shown in the following illustration. You should feel the card fit into place. If the card does not go in smoothly, do not force it-pull it all the way out and try again, keeping it straight as you insert it.
5. Secure the end of the card to the back of the computer with the retaining screw.
Changing Jumper Settings If you change your computer’s configuration, you may need to change a jumper setting in the computer. A jumper is a small electrical connector that controls one of the computer’s functions.
Main system board jumper settings Jumper Jumper Function number setting J1 1-2 Math coprocessor installed J1 2-3* No math coprocessor installed J2 1-2 Password skip enabled J2 2-3* Password skip disabled J3 1-2 Disables the built-in hard disk drive controller so you can use a hard disk drive controller on an option card in your computer J3 2-3* Enables the built-in hard disk drive controller J4 1-2* Sets the P-ROM type to 256 Kbits J4 2-3 Sets the P-ROM type to 512 Kbits J5 1-2 Dis
If you need to change or check any jumper settings, perform the following procedures in the order listed here, as necessary for your system: Follow the instructions in “Removing the Cover” earlier in this chapter to remove the computer’s cover. If you need to change any jumper settings for jumpers J1, J2, J3, or J4 on the main system board, remove any option cards that may be blocking your access to those jumpers. See “Removing an Option Card” below.
Removing the SIMM card To reach jumper J5 on the main system board, you need to remove the SIMM card. Follow these steps: 1. Remove the retaining screw that secures the SIMM card bracket to the inside of the computer, as shown below. (Do not remove the screw securing the SIMM card to the bracket.) Be careful not to drop the screw.
5-18 2. Remove the SIMM card from its slot on the main system board by pulling it straight up, as shown below. Then set it on a soft surface with the components facing up. 3. Change the setting of jumper J5 as necessary. (See “Changing the main system board jumper settings” below.) Avoid disturbing the cable connection next to the jumper. 4. To replace the SIMM card, reinstall the card in the SIMM card slot on the main system board and secure it to the inside of the computer with the retaining screw.
Changing the main system board jumper settings The illustration below shows the locations of jumpers J1 through J5 on the main system board. Check the table above to see which one(s) you need to change. J3 J5 \ I J2 J1 J4 To move a jumper from one position to the other, use your fingers or needle-nose pliers or tweezers to pull it off its current pins and gently move it to the other position. Be careful not to lose the jumper or leave it out of the computer.
The illustration below shows the location of the SIMM card in the computer. The following illustration shows the location of jumper J1 on the SlMM card. The jumper should be in position 1-2 if SIMMs have been installed. If you are not using SIMMs, the jumper should be set to position 2-3.
If the jumper setting is incorrect, move it to the correct setting. You do not have to remove the SIMM card to change the jumper setting. Replacing option cards To replace any option cards you may have removed to access the main system board, reinstall the card in the appropriate slot and secure it to the back of the computer with the retaining screw. Removing an Option Card If you later need to remove an option card, simply reverse the steps you followed to install it.
Replacing the Cover After you install (or remove) an option card, follow these steps to replace the computer’s cover: 1. Facing the front of the computer, position the cover on the computer as shown below. Pull the cover’s sides outward slightly. 2. Lower the cover and slide it toward the back of the computer until it fits into place. The diskette drive fits through the opening in the front panel and the power button fits into its cover. 3.
5. Check to be sure the power button on the computer is off. Then reconnect the power cable to the back of the computer and to an electrical outlet. Post-installation Setup for Memory Cards After you install a memory card in your computer, you need to configure your computer to use it. Follow these guidelines: Use the Setup program on your Reference diskette to automatically reset your computer’s configuration to include the memory on your installed memory card. See Chapter 2 for instructions.
2. Insert the working copy of your Reference diskette into drive A. 3. If necessary, type A: and press Enter to log onto drive A. 4. At the A> prompt, type CORFIX and press Enter. The following messages appear: This program will configure the system to work with the SMART utility when installing the RampagePlus 286. SMART can only be executed immediately after this configuration program. Continue ? (Y/N) 5. To configure your computer for use with RampagePlus 286, press Y.
Post-installation Setup After you install or remove a math coprocessor, memory modules, or a memory card, you need to run the Setup program on your Reference diskette so it can automatically update the computer’s configuration information. If you install or remove any other type of option card or device, such as a video adapter card or a diskette drive, it is important to run the Setup program to check if you need to change any configuration information.
5-26 dling Options
Appendix A Troubleshooting You should not encounter any difficulties as you set up and use your computer, but if anything out of the ordinary happens, refer to this appendix. You can correct most problems by adjusting a cable connection, repeating a software procedure, or resetting the computer. Besides trying the suggestions in this chapter, you can run diagnostics checks on the various components of your computer system. See Appendix C for instructions.
The Computer Won’t Start If your computer does not start when you turn on the power, check the following: 1. Is the power light on the computer’s front panel on? If not, remove any diskettes and turn off the power. Check that the power cord is securely connected to both the AC inlet on the back panel and an electrical outlet. WARNING If you need to turn off the computer for any reason, always wait at least five seconds before turning it back on again.
If the computer starts but you can’t see anything on the screen, see “Monitor Problems,‘” later in this appendix, The Computer Locks Up If your computer locks up and does not respond when you type on the keyboard, follow these steps: 1. Some computer operations take longer than others to complete. For example, the computer takes longer to sort a database than to accept a single typed character. If your computer is still locked after a reasonable length of time, proceed to the next step. 2.
Password Problems If you set a power-on password using the Setup program, you must enter this password after you turn on your computer before you can use the system. When you turn on the computer, the screen displays a key prompt ( t+nl ). If you do not enter the correct password, you see an x on the screen to indicate it is incorrect. The computer gives you a second and third chance to enter it correctly.
Removing a Password If you have forgotten your password and you do not want to set a new one, there are two ways to remove the current password: LI Disable the existing password Ll Disable the password function. To do either of these procedures, you must reset a jumper on the main system board. You should disable the existing password if you want to be able to set a new password later without having to reset a jumper on the main system board again.
3. When the Operation Menu appears, highlight Setup and press Enter. Then see “Setting the Power-on Password” in Chapter 2 and follow the instructions as if you are going to enter a new password. However, when you see the password prompt, press Enter immediately. This clears out the existing password. Make sure you save your password setting and that you highlight * * EXIT AND SAVE * * when you leave the Setup program. 4.
Setting a New Password If you have forgotten your current power-on password and want to set a new one, follow these steps: 1. Turn off the computer and follow the instructions under “Changing Jumper Settings” in Chapter 5 to enable the password skip function by setting jumper J2 to position 1-2. 2. Insert the Reference diskette into Drive A and turn on the computer. You do not see the key prompt ( ti ). 3. When the Operation Menu appears, highlight Setup and press Enter.
Keyboard Problems If you are having trouble with the keyboard, check the following: 1. If the screen displays a keyboard error when you turn on or reset the computer, make sure the keyboard is securely connected to the computer. See “Connecting the Keyboard” in Chapter 1 for instructions. 2. If nothing happens when you type on the keyboard, see “The Computer Locks Up,” earlier in this appendix. 3. If the cursor keys do not work properly, the Num Lock function may be on.
3. If the monitor’s power light still does not come on, check the electrical outlet for power. Turn off your monitor and unplug it from the wall outlet. Plug a lamp into the wall outlet and turn it on to see if the outlet supplies power. 4. If you still do not see anything on the screen, make sure your monitor is connected to the computer properly. See “Connecting the Monitor” in Chapter 1 for more details. Also check the monitor manual for instructions on how to connect it to the computer. 5.
Diskette Problems If you have trouble accessing data on a diskette, try the following steps: 1. Is the diskette inserted properly? You may have inserted it upside-down or it may not be inserted all the way. Remove the diskette from the drive and reinsert it with the label facing up. (See Chapter 3 for detailed instructions on inserting and removing diskettes.) 2.
Cl In a drive that has a storage capacity of 360KB, use 5 ‘/q-inch, double-sided, double-density, 48 TPI diskettes. You cannot use 1.2MB diskettes in this drive. See “Types of Diskette Drives” in Chapter 3 for more information. 4. If your diskette is the right type for your drive, check to see if the diskette is write-protected. On a 3 ‘/I-inch diskette, the write-protect switch may be set to the write-protect position or there may be no switch. On a 5 ‘/.
If the error message still occurs, you probably have a defective diskette. Use the MS-DOS COPY command to copy the files from the diskette onto another diskette. (See “Copying Files” in Chapter 4 for instructions.) If you are not able to copy all the files from the defective diskette, copy as many as you can and then use the MS-DOS program RECOVER. This program recovers all the data that it can read on the diskette. It is specifically designed to work on disks that may be defective.
Diskette Drive Problems Follow these steps if you are having difficulty with a diskette drive: 1. If the diskette is not turning or the diskette drive is making loud noises, do not attempt any further examination of it. Contact your Epson dealer. Note Diskette drives may make different sounds with different diskettes. 2.
Hard Disk Problems If you are having problems with the hard disk in your computer, try the following steps: 1. Be sure you have installed MS-DOS on the hard disk according to the instructions in the MS-DOS Installation Guide. 2. If you have installed MS-DOS on the hard disk but it does not load MS-DOS when you turn on the computer, it may be missing one of the MS-DOS system files. Turn off your computer and insert your Startup diskette into drive A. Then turn on your computer again.
To copy the hidden system files from your Startup diskette to the root directory of the hard disk, type A : to log onto drive A. Then type the following and press Enter: SYS c: 4. If you can load MS-DOS from your Startup diskette but you cannot access data stored on your hard disk, you may have accidentally repartitioned or reformatted part or all of the disk. Use the Display Partition Information option of the FDISK program to see if your hard disk has an active (bootable) DOS partition on it.
6. A-16 If you have been using your hard disk for a long time and begin to see numerous read/write errors, the magnetic signals on the disk may be getting weak. If this is the case, you may need to reformat the hard disk. If you decide to do this, follow these steps: Ll Back up all the data on the disk using the BACKUP command (described in the MS-DOS Reference Manual). Li Follow the instructions in Appendix D to perform a low-level (physical) format.
Software Problems If you are having trouble with an application program, try the following solutions: 1. If the application program does not start, check that you are following the correct procedure for starting the program, and that it is installed correctly. If you have a hard disk and the program is stored in a directory on that drive, make sure you are logged onto or specifying the correct directory.
Printer Problems Below are some general steps to follow if you are having difficulty with your printer. If the problem persists and you need more detailed information, check your printer manual. 1. If your printer does not work correctly immediately after you install it, check that the printer has power and is properly connected to the computer. See Chapter 1 or your printer manual for instructions on how to connect your printer to the computer.
5. Many application programs (such as word processors) must be set up properly before they can use a printer. Check your program manual to see what customization is required. 6. Try running the Parallel Port (Printer Interface) Check if you have a parallel printer, or the Serial Port (RS-232C) Check if you have a serial printer. Appendix C describes these diagnostics checks. If the diagnostics test indicates an error, contact the place where you bought the printer.
6. If you used the option card to add an external device to your computer, did you use the proper cable to connect the device to the option card connector on the back panel? 7. Did you perform the correct setup procedures for the software you are using with the option card? If necessary, see your software manual for instructions on running the software setup procedure.
Appendix B Power-on Diagnostics Your computer’s built-in memory (ROM) contains a series of diagnostics programs, which your computer runs automatically every time you turn on the power. These programs check internal devices such as ROM, RAM, the timer, the keyboard controller, and the hard disk drive. If the computer finds an error, it displays a specific error number and error message on the screen. If the error is serious, the computer cancels further checking and halts system initialization.
Power-on diagnostics error codes and messages Table Error code Message System Board 101 SYSTEM BOARD ERROR 102 SYSTEM BOARD ERROR 103 SYSTEM BOARD ERROR 105 SYSTEM BOARD ERROR 106 SYSTEM BOARD ERROR 108 SYSTEM BOARD ERROR Real-time Clock 161 SYSTEM OPTIONS NOT SET 162 SYSTEM OPTIONS NOT SET 163 TIME AND DATE NOT SET 164 MEMORY SIZE ERROR Memory 181 182 201 202 203 Keyboard 301 303 304 INTC (8259) Timer (8254) Timer (8254) NMI generated (Parity error or other) DMA page register failure Timer (8254) Po
Power-on diagnostics error codes and messages (continued) Error code Notes Message Hard disk drive(s) and controller 1760 DISK 0 PARAMETER FAILURE 1761 DISK 1 PARAMETER FAILURE 1770 DISK 0 PARAMETER ERROR 1771 DISK 1 PARAMETER ERROR 1780 1781 1782 1790 DISK DISK DISK DISK 1791 DISK 1 ERROR 0 FAILURE 1 FAILURE CONTROLLER FAILURE 0 ERROR Auxiliary device(s) 8601 AUXILIARY DEVICE FAILURE 8602 AUXILIARY DEVICE FAILURE 8603 AUXILIARY DEVICE FAILURE Incorrect user definable table Incorrect user defina
B-4 Power-on Diagnostics
Appendix C Performing System Diagnostics This appendix describes how to check the operation of the main unit and peripheral devices of your Equity 386SX. You check these devices using the diagnostics program on your Reference diskette. Run the diagnostics program if you are not sure whether a device is performing correctly. The table at the end of this appendix lists the error messages you may see during testing.
Starting System Diagnostics To run the System diagnostics program, you must turn on your computer with the Reference diskette in drive A. If you start this program in any other way, some tests may produce strange results. To start the System diagnostics program, follow these steps: 1. Insert the Reference diskette in drive A. 2. Turn on or reset the computer. The Operation Menu appears. 3. If the Num Lock indicator is illuminated, press Num Lock to turn off the function. 4.
If the list correctly describes your system, press Enter. If a device is missing from this list, or if you wish to change the list, press N or + and Enter. Then see “Modifying the Device List,” below. After you confirm the Device List, you can test only those items. If you decide later that you need to add a device, you must return to the Operation Menu and reselect S y s t em diagnostics.
For example, you may see this menu: 1 - Run test one time 2 - Run test multiple times 0 - Exit Suppose the first option is highlighted. If you want to select that option, just press Enter (because it is already highlighted). If you want to select option 2, you can either press 1 or 2; this causes the cursor block to move to that option. Then press Enter to select it.
You see this menu: 1 - Add device 2 - Delete device 0 - Finish modification To add a device to the list, select 1. The program displays a list of other devices that are not currently included in the Device List. You see a menu similar to this: Additional 4 7 12 21 81 - DEVICE LIST Monochrome display adapter and CRT Math coprocessor Alternate serial port Alternate parallel port Parallel port (on video adapter) 0 - Exit to DEVICE LIST I Select the item you wish to add.
Select the item you wish to delete. You can delete as many devices as necessary. When the Device List is correct, select 0. The screen displays the modified Device List for a final check and these options: If the list is correct, select 0. You are now ready to select a test. Selecting a Test From the Device List, select the device you wish to test. Before the test begins, you are asked how many times to perform the test.
To perform the test once, select 1. The program then displays a submenu of more detailed tests for the device you are checking. To perform the test multiple times, select 2. You see this prompt: Terminate checking if an error detected ? (Y/N) Select Y to terminate checking if the device produces an error, or N to repeat the tests regardless of an error. You see this prompt: Repeat times (1-9999) ? 1 To perform the test once, press Enter.
Resuming From an Error If an error occurs during a test, the test stops at that point, and an error code and error message appear. If you want to record the problem, you can print out the message on your printer. You see this prompt: Do you want a printout of the error message(s) ? (Y/N) To continue without printing the error message, select N. Before you request a printout, be sure your printer is ready and contains paper. Then select Y.
The remainder of this appendix describes the tests you can run on the system’s internal devices and on the optional devices installed on your computer. The program displays the title of each check on the screen. For a complete list of the error codes and messages these tests may display, see the table at the end of this appendix.
Memory Check Use this option to check all the memory currently installed in your computer. The program reads the CMOS RAM to find the total amount of memory. If any settings are incorrect, run the Setup program (described in Chapter 2) to automatically set the correct amount of memory in CMOS RAM. If you installed an optional memory card, you may need to adjust some DIP switch settings on the card. For this check, the program writes specific data into memory and then reads it back in blocks of 64KB.
Before checking the operation of the keys, you must identify your keyboard layout so the test is appropriate for the keys on your keyboard. A display appears, asking you to identify the shape of your Enter key. Choose the shape that matches the one on your keyboard, then press Enter. The program displays your keyboard layout on the screen. When you press a key on the keyboard, an asterisk appears at the corresponding location on the keyboard layout. If you hold a key down, the asterisk begins to blink.
Monochrome Display Adapter and CRT Check Use this option to verify the operation of a monochrome display adapter, VGA, or EGA card attached to a monochrome monitor. This test includes several checks that allow you to identify particular problems related to the monochrome display. You can select the individual checks from this menu: MONOCHROME DISPLAY ADAPTER AND CRT CHECK MENU 0 - Exit If an error occurs during any of these tests, record the error code and message, or print them out.
Attribute Check To check the display attributes of the adapter card, select 2. Several messages appear showing examples of all the possible display attributes (normal intensity, high intensity, blinking, reverse, and underlining). Check the information that appears on your screen, and then respond to the prompt: Is the display correct ? (Y/N) Select Y if the display is correct. If the display attributes are not correct, adjust the brightness and contrast on your monitor.
After checking the character fonts, respond to the prompt: Is the display correct ? (Y/N) If the characters match the illustration, select Y. If you find a problem with the characters on the screen, select N to display the error message. Video Check To check the video output of your monochrome adapter, select 4. This check displays two different screens: black and intensified white. First you see the black screen; press any key to display the intensified white screen. Then press any key to end this check.
Color Graphics Adapter and CRT Check Use this option to check the operation of a color graphics adapter (or MGA, EGA, or VGA) card and display. This test includes several checks that allow you to identify particular problems related to the color display.
Attribute Check To check the display attributes of the color graphics adapter card, select 2. Several messages appear showing examples of all the possible display attributes and colors. Check the information on your screen, and respond to the prompt: Is the display correct ? (Y/N) Select Y if the display is correct. If the colors are not correct, adjust the controls on your monitor. If they are still incorrect, select N. Contact your dealer to verify any monitor problems.
After checking the character fonts, respond to the prompt: Is the display correct ? (Y/N) If the characters match the illustration, select Y. If you find a problem with the characters on the screen, select N to display the error message. 40-column Character Set Check To check your 40-column character set, select 4. The character fonts that are included in the internal character generator are displayed on your screen. Compare the characters on your screen to the following illustration.
If the characters match the illustration, select Y. If you find a problem with the characters on the screen, select N to display the error message. 320x200 Graphics Mode Check To check your 320x200 graphics mode, select 5. The screen displays three colored squares-green, brown, and red-against a cyan background. These four colors are Color Set 0. If they are correct, select Y. The same pattern appears again; this time the squares are cyan, white, and magenta, and the background is red.
640x200 Graphics Mode Check To check your 640x200 graphics mode, select 6. The screen displays three patterned squares against a contrasting background, as shown below. 640X200 GRAPHICS MODE CHECK Is the display correct ? (Y/N) If the patterns on your screen are clear and distinct, select Y. If any pattern is not clear, first check the adjustment of your monitor, and then make sure that both ends of the cable are plugged in firmly. If a problem still exists, select N to display the error message.
Screen Paging Check To check the screen paging of your monitor, select 7. The video RAM on the color graphics adapter is divided into eight independent display pages (numbered 0 through 7). This test checks the eight pages by first filling all eight with a number corresponding to the page, and then displaying each page in turn. You see the following pattern for screen 0: SCREEN PAGING CHECK Press any key for next page Once you examine this screen, press any key to display the next page.
Light Pen Check To check the function of a light pen connected to the color graphics adapter card, select 8. This test checks that a light pen connected to the color graphics adapter is performing accurately. When you select this check, you see these prompts: Confirm light pen is connected correctly before starting the check. Start the check ? (Y/N) After you verify that the light pen is connected properly, select Y.
Color Video Check This test displays 16 different screens, each a different color, and a message indicating the color. The screens show the following colors in the order specified below: 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 - Black Blue Green Cyan Red Magenta Brown White 910 11 12 13 14 15 16 - Gray Light blue Light green Light cyan Light red Light magenta Yellow White (high intensity) To start this test, select 9. Press any key to display each screen.
Run All Above Checks To run all the tests on the menu in sequence, select 11. When you choose this option, all checks for the color adapter and CRT are performed automatically in sequential order. Although you do not start each test, you must still supply the appropriate responses to progress from one test to the next. Press ESC to return to the menu. Diskette Drives and Controller Check Use this option to test the performance of the diskette drive(s) installed in your computer.
You can select the individual tests from the following menu. DISKETTE DRIVE(S) AND CONTROLLER CHECK MENU 1 2 3 4 5 - Sequential seek check Random seek check Write, read check Disk change check Run all above checks 0 - Exit Before it performs any checks, the program determines the number of diskette drives installed in your computer. If you have more than one drive, you see this prompt each time you select a test: Enter drive number ? (1/2) Select 1 (for drive A) or 2 (for drive B).
Select option 1 from the menu to start this test. The program displays the number of each track it finds. For example, with a 1.44MB diskette, the first message you see is: Current track is 79 The track number counts down from 79 to 0 (39 to 0 for a 360KB diskette). The seek is performed by each head, so you see the count twice. If no errors occur, the menu is displayed.
If you have only one diskette drive, you see a prompt to remove the the Reference diskette and insert a blank diskette before running the test. You see these messages: If using drive 1, remove your Reference Disk. Insert a formatted blank disk in the drive before starting the check. Any data present may be erased. Start the check ? (Y/N) Make sure the blank diskette you prepared is in drive A (l), then select Y. The program displays the current track number as each cylinder is tested. For example, with a 1.
When you run the test for 1.44MB, 1.2MB, or 720KB drive, you see this prompt: Remove the disk from drive 1. Remove the diskette. The program displays the following prompt: Re-insert the disk into drive 1. Reinsert the diskette. If no errors occur, the menu reappears. An error occurs if you do not remove or replace the diskette in time or if the drive is malfunctioning. Run All Above Checks To run all the tests on the menu in sequence, select 5.
Parallel Port (Printer Interface) Check Use this option to test the operation of the primary parallel printer port. To perform the test, you must insert a special loopback connector into the parallel port so that the computer can check individual pins of the port. Contact your dealer if you need a loop-back connector. Note that a different connector is required to test the serial port.
Parallel Port (on Video Adapter) Check Use this option to test the operation of an additional parallel port on a video adapter. To perform the test, you must insert the special loop-back connector into the parallel port on the video adapter so that the computer can check individual pins of the port. This test is similar to the Parallel Port Check. For more details, see the description of the Parallel Port (Printer Interface) Check.
First, the program checks the serial port control lines to see that they are able to change from high to low and vice versa. No messages are displayed during this part of the test unless an error occurs. The second test is an echo back check during which the port sends data to itself in a fixed data format, at all the possible baud rates.
Alternate Serial Port Check Use this option to test the functions of an additional serial communications (RS-232C) port. To perform the test you must insert a special loop-back connector into the alternate serial port so that the computer can check individual pins of the port. This test is identical to the check for the primary serial port. For more details, see the description of the Serial Port (RS-232C Port) Check.
When you continue the test, the program checks that the printer is responding correctly. This test detects whether the printer is offline or whether an interface error exists. If no errors occur, the computer sends a repeating sequence of ASCII characters and bit-image data to the printer until you press any key. The pattern looks like this: The text data includes all the characters commonly used by programs that require foreign languages or graphic characters.
Hard Disk Drive(s) and Controller Check Use this option to test the performance of the hard disk drive(s) installed in your computer. If any errors occur, have your dealer or service center check and service the drive.
Select option 1 from the menu to start this test. The program displays the number of each cylinder it finds. For example, with a hard disk, the first message you see is: Current cylinder is nnn where nnn is the largest cylinder number used on the drive. The cylinder number counts down to 0. The seek is performed by the read/write heads simultaneously, so you see the cylinder numbers only once. If no errors occur, the menu reappears.
If an error occurs, make a note of the code and message. Then use the Non-destructive surface analysis (option 3 on the Hard Disk Format Menu) to check the condition of the hard disk. If this analysis shows no other problems with the disk, follow these steps: 1. Back up all the files on your hard disk. 2. Reformat the disk using option 2, Format hard disk, on the Operation Menu. 3. Install MS-DOS on the hard disk according to the instructions in the MS-DOS Installation Guide. 4. Restore your files.
Press Enter when you have viewed the table. If the results show any read error tracks, run the write/read test (described above), and follow the instructions there. Run All Above Checks To run all the tests on the menu in sequence, select 4. When you choose this option, all checks for the hard disk drive(s) and controller are performed automatically in sequential order. Although you do not start each test, you must still supply the appropriate responses to progress from one test to the next.
Error Codes and Messages The following table lists all the error codes and messages that may appear during system diagnostics testing.
System diagnostics error codes and messages (continued) Error code Color graphics 501 503 504 505 506 507 508 509 510 Message adapter and CRT V-RAM ERROR ATTRIBUTE ERROR CHARACTER SET ERROR 40-COLUMN CHARACTER SET ERROR COLOR GRAPHICS ERROR 640 x 200 GRAPHICS MODE ERROR SCREEN PAGING ERROR LIGHT PEN ERROR COLOR VIDEO ERROR Diskette drive(s) and controller DISKETTE DRIVE CONTROLLER ERROR 601 SEQUENTIAL SEEK ERROR 602 RANDOM SEEK ERROR 603 WRITE ERROR 604 READ ERROR 605 DISK CHANGE CHECK REMOVE ERROR 606 DI
System diagnostics error codes and messages (continued) Error code Message Alternate serial port 1201 control signal ALWAYS LOW 1201 control signal ALWAYS HIGH 1202 TIMEOUT ERROR 1203 VERIFY ERROR Dot-matrix printer 1401 status Hard disk drive(s) and controller 1701 SEEK ERROR 1702 WRITE ERROR 1703 READ ERROR 1704 HEAD ERROR 1705 ERROR DETECTION ERROR 1706 ERROR CORRECTION ERROR Alternate parallel port 2101 ERROR PIN p Parallel port (on video adapter) 81nn ERROR PIN p Performing System Diagnostics C-39
C-40 Performing System Diagnostics
Appendix D Physically Formatting a Hard Disk This appendix describes how to physically format a hard disk. Sometimes called a low-level format, this procedure should not be confused with the logical format performed by the MS-DOS FORMAT command. The physical formatting of a hard disk is a separate step that is usually done at the factory by the disk manufacturer. If your Equity 386SX came with a hard disk, that disk has d already been physically formatted.
In addition to destroying all the data on the hard disk, formatting removes any partitions defined on the disk by SELECT or FDISK and the logical formatting performed by SELECT or FORMAT. After you physically format a new or used hard disk (using option 1 or 2 of the Hard Disk Format Menu), you need to install MS-DOS. Follow the instructions in your MS-DOS Installation Guide. The installation process automatically partitions and formats the hard disk to prepare it for use.
The formatting options work as follows: Format first scans the disk (if it has no defective track table) for defective (bad) tracks and lets you decide which tracks to mark as bad. Then the program formats the disk and marks those bad tracks so they are never used to store data. Destructive surface analysis tests the entire disk for read/write errors or unflagged bad tracks and updates the defective track table.
Formatting a New Disk Many hard disk drives come with a printed list of bad tracks but without the bad tracks flagged on the disk. Other hard disks (such as those supplied by Epson) come with the bad tracks already flagged. If you are formatting a new hard disk that has never been formatted, select the 1 -Format option to format the disk. Selecting an Option When using this program, you often need to select an option from a menu.
Option 1, Format If you select 1 -Format from the Hard Disk Format Menu, you see the following (for a disk that does not have a defective track table): Format Hard Disk < Drive 1: > Scan hard disk to get defective track information ? (Y/N) (If the disk already has a defective track table, you do not see the message because the disk does not need to be scanned for bad tracks.) Select Y to scan the disk or N to skip the scanning process.
For the hard disk in the Equity 386SX, it is best to accept the recommended skewed sector (also called the interleave factor) of 1. For other hard disk drives, you may need to change this value if the documentation that came with the hard disk recommends a different number. To accept the default, select Y. To enter a new value, select N. You see the following prompt: Enter new skewed sectors in (1-16): format Enter a number from 1 through 16 which equals the maximum sector number for the drive minus 1.
The program now allows you to edit the table of defective tracks: At the bottom of the table is this prompt: Modify defective track table ? (Y/N) Select N to leave the table as it is. Then skip the following section and go on to “Formatting the Disk,” below. To modify the defective track entries, select Y.
2. Type the number of the cylinder containing the bad track and press Enter. You see this prompt: Enter head number (0 -nn): 3. Type the head number for the bad track and press Enter. To cancel the operation, press Enter without typing a value. When you complete a valid entry, it appears in the table and you can add the next bad track, if necessary. If you make a mistake, move the cursor block to the incorrect track and press C to alter the track data or press D to remove the track from the table.
Formatting the Disk When you are ready to start formatting the disk, you see the following warning: WARNING? ALL DATA WILL BE DESTROYED IN ALL PARTITIONS OF HARD DISK, NOT JUST IN MS-DOS PARTITION! Do you want to start formatting ? (Y/N) If you are not sure you want to format the hard disk, select N. If you are sure, select Y; the program gives you one more chance to cancel: DOUBLE CHECK THAT YOU HAVE BACKUP DISKETTE COPIES OF ALL YOUR FILES.
You see the head and cylinder numbers decrease as the program progresses. When formatting is complete, the program flags any bad tracks and you see a series of messages like these: Format finished. Flagging bad tracks... Cylinder is nnnn, head is nn Format completed. Press ENTER to return to the menu. Press Enter to return to the Hard Disk Format Menu.
To start this test, select 2-Destructive surface analysis from the Hard Disk Format Menu. You see these messages: Analyze Hard Disk Read/Save/Write/Read/Restore/Read check for all tracks... Current cylinder is nnnn As the program checks each track, it counts the cylinder numbers (nnnn) down to zero. When the test is complete, the program displays a report on the status of the disk, including a table of unflagged tracks that produced write, read errors-such as the following: Analysis finished.
To flag the error tracks as bad, select Y. You see a list of the tracks as they are flagged and these messages: Flagging bad tracks... Cylinder is 237, head is 2 Press ENTER to return to the menu. Press Enter to return to the Hard Disk Format Menu. Option 3, Non-destructive Surface Analysis The Non-destructive surface analysis does not destroy any data, and you can use it to safely check the condition of your hard disk drive. However, this test does not flag any bad tracks it detects.
If the program finds errors, the screen displays a table of the tracks that gave errors, similar to the one the Destructive surface analysis displays. After the status reports, you see this message: Press ENTER to return to the menu. Check the information displayed. Then press Enter to return to the Hard Disk Format Menu. Exiting the Hard Disk Format Menu To leave the Hard Disk Format Menu, select 0 -Exit. The screen displays the Operation Menu.
- - - - D-14 Physically Formatting a Hard Disk
Appendix E Hard Disk Drive Types This appendix lists the types of hard disk drives you can use in your Equity 386SX. Check this table and the documentation supplied with your hard disk to find the correct number for the type of hard disk drive installed in your computer. You need to enter this number when you set the hard disk drive parameters in the Setup program. See Chapter 2 for instructions.
- T- Landing MB - Type no Cylinders Heads Sectors Precomp 27 698 976 7 17 300 732 40.6 28 5 17 488 977 40.5 29 306 4 17 0 340 10.2 30 611 4 17 306 663 20.4 31 732 7 17 300 732 42.6 32 1023 5 17 1023 42.5 33 none 34 none 35 none 36 none 37 none 38 none 39 none none 40 - 1022 84.8 CDC 94216-106(3) 36 - 1022 89.8 CDC94216-106 17 1023 68.0 34 512 - 828 37.5 (4) Toshiba MK-156F 5 17 512 1023 42.5 8 17 128 618 40.
Notes: 1. Miniscribe 8425F, Seagate ST125 2. Conner CP-344 or Miniscribe 8051A can be used as type 17 3. For Western Digital ESDI HDC or Drive Maker default setting 4. Micropolis 1325, Ataal 3085, Lanstor Lan64, Maxtor XT1O85, Newbury NDR1085 5. Micropolis 1323A, Miniscribe 3035, Microscience HH1050, Seagate ST4053 6. The landing zone value is 964 Types 1 through 47 are allocated at 0FE401 h, IBM new AT-compatible area. Types 48 through 63 are allocated at 0FD2F1h to 0FDFFOh.
E-4 Hard Disk Drive Types
Appendix F Specifications CPU and Memory 16-bit CPU 80386SX microprocessor, 16 MHz or simulated 8 MHz clockrate, selectable through a switch or through software 24-bit address and 16-bit data bus On-board memory 1MB RAM on main system board; expandable using 256KB or 1MB SIMMs to 2MB, 4MB, 6MB, 8MB, 10MB, 12MB, or 14MB (maximum); SIMMs must be 70ns access speed or faster ROM 64KB Math coprocessor 80387SX ( 16 MHz) support; coprocessor is optional Controllers Diskette Supports up to two drives in a
Interfaces Serial RS-232C, programmable, asynchronous; DB-9P male connector Parallel Standard 8-bit parallel; DB-25S female connector Auxiliary Mini DIN (6-pin) connector for IRQ 12 mouse or other device Option slots Five standard input/output expansion slots (one with 8-bit bus and four with 16-bit bus); one special slot occupied by a serial/ parallel interface card Speaker Internal Clock/calendar RAM Real-time clock, calendar, and 64-byte CMOS RAM for configuration; battery backup Power Supply
Optional 3 ‘/r-inch diskette drive, 1.44MB (highdensity) storage capacity Optional 5 l/4-inch diskette drive, 1.
Physical Characteristics F-4 Width 15.7 inches (400 mm) Depth 16.4 inches (416.5 mm) Height 6.2 inches (157 mm) Weight (without keyboard) Single diskette drive model: 23.2 lb (10.5 kg) 40MB or 100MB hard disk drive model: 24.9 lb (11.
Glossary Absolute pathname A pathname that begins with the backslash character. An absolute pathname tells MS-DOS how to find its way to a given directory, starting at the root directory. See also Relative pathname. Address A number or name that identifies the location where information is stored in a computer’s memory. Application program A software program designed to perform a specific task, such as a word processing or spreadsheet program. ASCII American Standard Code for Information Interchange.
Auto speed The Equity 386SX feature that enables it to automatically switch from 16 MHz to simulated 8 MHz speed when accessing the diskette drive (for copy-protected programs). Backup An extra copy of a program, data file, or disk, kept in case your working copy is damaged or lost. Base memory The amount of memory in the computer below 1MB that is available to MS-DOS and application programs-usually 640KB. Also called conventional memory or main memory.
Bit A binary digit (0 or 1). The smallest unit of computer storage. The value of a bit represents the presence (1) or absence (0) of an electric charge. Boot To load the operating system into the computer’s memory. Byte A sequence or group of eight bits that represents one character. CGA Color Graphics Adapter. A type of display adapter card that can generate up to 25 lines of text with 80 characters on each line, monochrome graphics at 640 x 200 resolution, or four-color graphics at 320 x 200 resolution.
Command An instruction you enter (usually on a keyboard) to direct your computer to perform a specific function. Command prompt The symbol or message that tells you MS-DOS is loaded and ready to receive instructions. The default command prompt displays the current drive and directory. If you are logged onto drive A, the command prompt looks like this: A>. Configuration The particular setup of a group of components.
Copy-protected program A type of program that cannot be copied. Some copy-protected programs require you to leave the program diskette in the diskette drive while you are using it. Some also require the computer to be running at simulated 8 MHz instead of 16 MHz. See also Auto speed. CPU Central Processing Unit. The primary unit of the computer that interprets instructions, performs the tasks you indicate, keeps track of stored data, and controls all input and output operations.
Data diskette A formatted diskette on which you store data files (as opposed to program files). Data length The number of bits per character in serial transmissions. Default Values or settings that take effect when the computer is turned on or reset. A default value stays in effect unless you override it temporarily by changing a setting or you reset the default value itself. Default directory The directory you are logged onto and working in. Also known as the current directory.
Diagnostics The tests and procedures the computer performs to check its internal circuitry and set up its configuration. DIP switch A small switch on a computer, option card, or printer that controls a particular function. DIP stands for Dual In-line Package. Directory A list of files stored in a particular area on a disk; part of a structure for organizing files into groups. A directory listing shows the name, location, and size of the files in the directory.
DOS The Disk Operating System that controls the computer’s input and output functions. See Operating system. Double-density A type of diskette format that allows you to store twice as much data as the standard-density format. A 3 l/z-inch double-density diskette can store 720KB of data. A 5 ‘/+inch double-density diskette can store 360KB of data. Drive designator The letter name of a disk drive, followed by a colon-for example, C :. EGA Enhanced Graphics Adapter.
Extended Memory Memory above 1MB that is accessed by the protected mode of the 80386SX microprocessor and available to some application programs and operating systems. Extended partition An additional MS-DOS partition; you can create one primary MS-DOS partition and one extended partition. Extension A suffix of up to three characters that you can add to a filename to better identify it. External command An MS-DOS command stored in a program file.
Fixed disk See Hard disk. Format To prepare a new disk (or an old one you want to reuse) so that it can store information. Formatting divides a disk into tracks and sectors and creates addressable locations on it. Graphics Lines, angles, curves, and other nonalphanumeric data. Hard disk The enclosed unit used to store data permanently. Unlike a diskette, it is fixed in place. It can process data more rapidly and store many more files than a diskette. Also called fixed disk.
Interface A physical or software connection used to transmit data between equipment or programs. Internal command An MS-DOS command that is stored in the command processor of the operating system; it is not a separate program file. Examples include COPY, DEL, RENAME, and DIR. Jumper A small device that connects two pins on an option card, the SIMM card, or the main system board to activate a particular function.
Main system board The board built into your computer which contains 1MB of memory and the circuitry the computer requires to operate. Math coprocessor An optional device that enables the computer to process certain mathematical calculations faster. MCGA Monochrome/Color Graphics Adapter. A type of display adapter that runs either a monochrome or color graphics monitor. Megabyte (MB) A unit used to measure storage space in a computer’s memory or on a disk. One megabyte equals 1024KB.
Memory on card The additional memory on an option card installed in the computer. MGA Multi-graphics Adapter. A type of display adapter card that can display monochrome text and color graphics on the screen. Microprocessor A small version of a CPU contained on one semiconductor chip. Modem A device that allows a computer to transmit signals over telephone lines so it can send and receive data. Modem stands for MOdulator/DEModulator.
MS-DOS Microsoft Disk Operating System. The operating system that comes with your computer. See Operating system. Network server The master computer in a network which provides storage space for the other computers connected to it. The network server can write files to and read files from the other computers in the network. Network server mode The condition of a computer that is working as a network server. Numeric keypad The number keys grouped to the right of the keyboard.
Option card A circuit board you install inside the computer to provide additional capabilities, such as more memory or a modem. Parallel The type of interface that transmits data in groups of bits. See Interface and Serial. Parameter A qualifier added to a command that tells MS-DOS what particular conditions to look for and specifies information such as what data you want to process and where to locate or store a file. Parent directory The directory immediately above a given directory in the directory tree.
Peripheral A device (such as a printer or a modem) connected to a computer that depends on the computer for its operation. Port A physical input/output socket on a computer where you can connect a peripheral device. Power-on diagnostics The system tests the computer runs to check its internal circuitry and configuration each time you turn it on. Power-on password The sequence of characters you type after you turn on the computer in order to access and use your system.
RAM Random Access Memory. The portion of the computer’s memory used to run programs and store data while you work. All data stored in RAM is erased when you turn off the computer; so you must store any data you want to keep on a diskette or hard disk. Read To move data from one area to another. For example, when you open a text file stored on disk, the computer reads the data from the disk and displays it on the screen.
ROM Read Only Memory. A portion of memory that can only be read and cannot be used for temporary storage. ROM retains its contents even when you turn off the power. Root directory The top-level directory in MS-DOS, designated by a \ (backslash). All other directories are subdirectories of the root directory or of other subdirectories. RS-232C A widely-used, standard type of serial interface. You can easily connect an RS-232C-compatible device to the computer.
Source diskette The diskette that you are reading or copying data from during a copy or backup operation. SP card The circuit board inside the computer that provides the serial and parallel interfaces. Stop bit A signal sent in serial communications to mark the end of a character. Subdirectory A directory or group of files that branches down from another subdirectory or from the root directory. Switch An option added to an MS-DOS command that modifies the way the command works.
Tracks Addressable, concentric circles on a disk, resembling the grooves on a record, which help to divide the disk into separate accessible areas. There are 80 tracks on each side of a doublesided 1.44MB, 1.2MB, or 720KB diskette and 40 tracks on each side of a double-sided 360KB diskette. The number of tracks on a hard disk depends on its capacity. VGA Video Graphics Array.
Index A Absolute pathname, 4-20 -21 Alternate parallel port check, C-28 Alternate serial port check, C-31 APPEND, 4-22 Auto speed function, 2-12 -14, 3-5 AUTOEXEC.BAT, 4-5, 4-10, 4-40 -42 B Backing up data, 3-20 -22, 3-24, 4-30 -35 with BACKUP, 3-24, 4-34 -35 with DISKCOPY, 3-20, 3-24, 4-30 -34 BACKUP, 3-24, 4-34 -35 Base memory, 2-26, 2-29 -31 Batch files, 4-10 AUTOEXEC.
Cover, removing, 5-5-7 replacing, 5-22 -23 CPU, F-1 CPU speed, 2-12 -14, 3-5 CPU SPEED switch, 2-12 -14, 3-5 CTRL ALT DEL, 3-9 CTRL BREAK, 3-8 CTRL C, 3-8 Current directory, 4-19, 4-41 changing, 4-19 Current drive, 4-4 -5, changing, 4-4 -5 D DATE, 2-14, 4-8 -9 Date, setting, 2-16 -18, 4-8 -9 Default directory, see Current directory Default drive, see Current drive DEL, 4-15 Deleting files, 4-15 Delimiters, 4-7 -8 Destructive surface analysis, D-2 -3, D-10 -12 Diagnostics, power-on, B-1 -3 system, C-1 -39 D
Double-density diskettes, 3-12-13 Double-sided diskettes, 3-12-13 Drive designator, 4-3-5 Drives, see Diskette drives see Hard disks E EGA card, see Video cards EMM386.
I Interfaces, list of, F-2 setting serial and parallel, 2-24 -25 Internal command, 4-5 J Jumper settings, changing, 5-14 -21 K Keyboard, adjusting angle, 1-15 cable, 1-14 check, C-10 -11 connecting, 1-13 -15 controller and keyboard check, B-1 layout, 3-6-7, F-3 problems, A-8 special keys, 3-6 -7 L LIM EMS, 2-6, 4-43 -46 Loading MS-DOS, 4-2 -3 Location, choosing for computer, 1-3 Logical disk drive, 4-3 M Mass storage, F-2 -3 Math coprocessor, check, C-27 configuring, 2-1 installing, 5-1 jumper setting,
diskettes, 1-2, 3-1 -2 EMM386.
Precautions, computer, 1-15 -16 hard disk, 3-23 Primary partition, 4-3 PRINT, 4-16 Printer, connecting, 1-7 -10 interface check, C-28 parallel interface, 1-7 -9, 2-24 -25 problems, A-18 -19 serial interface, 1-10, 2-24-25 R RAM check, B-1 Random access memory (RAM), 2-1, 3-21, 4-43, B-1 Read only memory (ROM), B-l, C-9, F-l Read/write heads, 3-12, 3-24-25 Real-time clock, 2-14 -17, F-2 Redirecting printer output, 1-10 Registration card, 1-2 Relative pathname, 4-20-21 RENAME, 4-14 RMDIR (RD), 4-27 RESET but
T W TIME, 2-14, 4-8 Time, setting, 2-14 -17,4-8 Timer check, B-1 Toll-free number, Intro-4 Tracks, 3-10 -13 TREE, 4-25 -27 Troubleshooting, A-1 -20 Turning off computer, 3-25, 4-3 Turning on computer, 1-15 -17 Warranty card, 1-2 Wildcard characters, 4-11 -l2 Write-protect notch, 3-18 -19 Write-protect switch, 3-19 Write-protect tab, 3-18 Write-protecting diskettes, 3-18-19 U X XCOPY, 3-14, 3-24, 4-13, 4-30 -31, 4-34, 4-39 Unpacking the system, 1-1 -2 V Video cards, CGA, 1-4, 2-7-8 color graphics adap
8 Index
diskette release button switch option card slots power outlet I \ I mouse port serial port parallel port