FCC COMPLIANCE STATEMENT FOR AMERICAN USERS This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a class B digital device, pursuant to Part 15 of the FCC Rules. These limits are designed to provide reasonable protection against harmful interference in a residential installation. This equipment generates, uses, and can radiate radio frequency energy and, if not installed and used in accordance with the instructions, may cause harmful interference to radio and television reception.
EPSON EISA User’s Guide
IMPORTANT NOTICE Epson America, Inc., 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 computer. 3. Unplug the computer from the wall outlet before cleaning. Use a damp cloth for cleaning; do not use liquid or aerosol cleaners. 4. Do not spill liquid of any kind on the computer. 5. Do not place the computer on an unstable cart, stand, or table. 6.
10. Do not allow the computer’s cord to become damaged or frayed. 11. If you use an extension cord with the computer, make sure the total of the ampere ratings of the devices plugged into the extension cord does not exceed the ampere rating for the extension cord. Also, make sure the total of all products plugged into the wall outlet does not exceed 15 amperes. 12. Do not insert objects of any kind into this product through the cabinet slots. 13.
Instructions Importantes de Sécurité 1. Lire complètement les instructions qui suivant et les conserver pour references futures. 2. Bien suivre tous les avertissements et les instructions indiqués sur l’ordinateur. 3. Debrancher l’ordinateur de toute sortie murale avant le nettoyage. Utiliser un chiffon humide; ne jamais utiliser un nettoyeur liquide ou une bonbonne aérosol. 4. Ne jamais renverser un liquide d’aucune sorte sur l’ordinateur. 5.
10. S’assurer que le cordon d’alimentation de l’ordinateur n’est pas effrité. 11. Dans le cas où on utilise un cordon de rallonge avec l’ordinateur, on doit s’assurer que la valeur totale d'ampères branches dans le cordon n’excède en aucun temps les amperes du cordon de rallonge. La quantité totale des appareils branches dans la prise murale ne doit jamais excéder 15 amperes. 12. Ne jamais insérer un objet de quelque sorte que ce soit dans les cavités de cet appareil. 13.
Contents Introduction Optional Equipment . . Software . . . . . . . . . How to Use This Manual Where to Get Help . . . Chapter 1 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Setting Up Your System Preparing to Set Up the System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Installation Overview . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Configuring Your System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Starting the Program . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Setting the Date and Time . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Performing the Configuration Steps . . . . . . . . . . . . . Adding or Removing a Board . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Defining the Configuration Settings . . . . . . . . . . . . . Using Advanced Configuration Options . . . . . . . . . . . Using Alternate Configuration Files . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Chapter 5 Installing and Removing Options Main System Board Map . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Processor Board Maps . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Option Cards . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Installing Option Cards . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Removing Option Cards . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Processor Boards . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Removing the Processor Board . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Running Tests . . . . . . . . . Resuming From an Error System Diagnostic Tests . . . Error Messages . . . . . . . . Appendix B . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . A-5 A-6 A-7 A-8 Formatting a Hard Disk Starting the Program . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Formatting a New Disk . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Reformatting a Used Disk . . . . . . . .
Appendix D Specifications Main System Board . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Interfaces . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Controllers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Processor Board . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Mass Storage Bays . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Power Supply. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Keyboard . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Environmental Requirements . . . . . . . . . . Physical Characteristics . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Tables Key commands . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . System board options . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Default non-cache address blocks . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Hard disk drive types . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Advanced configuration options . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . SD command parameters . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . CF command parameters . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Keyboard speed setting commands . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Introduction The Epson® EISA Series computer is a powerful, versatile system ideally suited for use as either a network server or a high-performance personal workstation. It incorporates the latest EISA (Extended Industry Standard Architecture) technology into a convenient desktop design. Its exceptional features and flexibility enable you to use the most advanced peripheral devices and software while maintaining full compatibility with ISA technology.
The built-in interfaces let you connect basic peripheral devices (such as a printer and mouse) directly to the computer, leaving the expansion slots for optional devices such as a SCSI adapter or a networking card. Your computer’s EISA technology allows the 32-bit processor to access EISA-compatible I/O expansion boards 32 bits at a time optimizing system throughput. In addition, the EISA burst mode capability enables data transfers of up to 33MB of data per second through the EISA bus.
Optional Equipment By adding SIMMs to the main system board, you can expand the computer’s memory up to 64MB. On the upgradeable processor board, you can install a math coprocessor or another processor, depending on the board you have. You can also install a variety of other options, such as diskette drives, hard disk drives, a tape drive, or a SCSI subsystem. Check with your authorized Epson dealer to see which options are available.
How to Use This Manual This manual explains how to set up, configure, and operate your computer, as well as how to install options and run diagnostic tests. It does not cover your operating system; see your operating system manual for instructions on installing and using it. Although you should be sure to follow the steps in Chapter 1 and Chapter 2 to set up and configure your system, you may not need to read everything in this book. See the following chapter summaries to find the sections you need.
Where to Get Help If you purchased your computer outside of the United States, please contact your dealer or the marketing location nearest you for customer support and service. International marketing locations are listed on the inside of this manual’s back cover. If you purchased your Epson product in the United States, Epson America provides local customer support and service through a nationwide network of authorized Epson dealers and Service Centers.
Chapter 1 Setting Up Your System This chapter describes the steps you perform to set up your system for the first time. It defines the system requirements and gives a general outline of the steps you need to follow to start using your computer. It also describes how to set the appropriate country code for the system’s keyboard and configuration information.
It is important to choose a safe, convenient location for your system. Make sure your location provides the following: A flat, hard surface. Surfaces like carpeted floors and beds attract static electricity, which can erase data on your disks, damage the computer’s circuitry, and prevent proper ventilation. Good air circulation. Leave several inches of space around the computer so air can move freely. Moderate environmental conditions.
Installation Oveview This section lists the general steps you follow to install options, connect peripheral devices, and configure your system. For detailed instructions on performing these steps, see the appropriate sections specified below. 1. Install any optional equipment you want to add to your computer, such as disk drives, a math coprocessor, memory modules, or EISA option cards. Do not install any ISA option cards yet (unless you will be using an ISA card to control your monitor).
9. Connect all of your peripheral devices. 10. Install your operating system and any other application programs. See the manuals that came with your software for installation instructions. Installing Optional Equipment The first time you set up your computer, you should install any disk drives, math coprocessor, memory modules, or EISA option cards you plan to use. Do not install any ISA option cards yet, unless you will be installing an ISA video adapter card to control your monitor.
Connecting Peripheral Devices You may not want to connect all your peripheral devices before you run the System Configuration program for the first time. If you’ll be installing ISA cards after running the program, you may want to connect only those devices necessary to perform the program’s functions. If you connect other devices, you will need to disconnect them to install the ISA cards. You must connect a monitor and a keyboard to run the System Configuration program.
Then connect the devices in the following order: 1. Connect your peripheral device cables to the computer. 2. Connect the power cords to the computer and other devices, if necessary. 3. Plug the power cords into their electrical outlets. Be sure to read the next section before you turn on your computer. Turning On the Computer After you set up your system, you’re ready to turn on the power.
Cl Always turn off the power, disconnect the computer’s power cord, and wait 30 seconds before you remove the cover. Only remove the cover to access internal devices. Now you can run the Change Country Code utility. Running the Change Country Code Utility Before you configure your computer or perform any other operations, you need to create new AUTOEXEC.BAT and CONFIG.SYS files for your country on the Reference 1 diskette. You do this by running the Change Country Code utility.
Setting the Country Code for the first Time To run the Change Country Code utility the first time you boot your computer from the Reference 1 diskette, follow these steps: 1. Insert the Reference 1 diskette in drive A. 2. Turn on your computer or press the RESET button. 3. After a moment, you see a screen describing the Change Country Code utility. The screen includes the following message and prompt: Current country c o d e i s U n i t e d S t a t e s .
4. When you see the following message, press any key to reboot the system and run the System Configuration program: Now you should reboot the system to run the appropriate AUTOEXEC.BAT and CONFIG.SYS files and start the System Configuration program. Press any key to reboot . . . After a moment, you see the System Configuration program title screen. If you want to run the program now, see the information in Chapter 2 before you begin.
Changing the Country Code If you need to change the country code for your system’s keyboard driver and configuration information, you can run the CHGCTR utility. Follow these steps: 1. Insert the Reference 1 diskette in drive A and log onto drive A. 2. At the A> prompt, type CHGCTR and press [Enter. You see the information screen for the Change Country Code utility followed by this prompt: Change country code? (Y/N) 3. If you want to keep the current country code, press IN).
If you do not want to run System Configuration, remove the Reference 1 diskette from drive A and turn off your computer. The AUTOEXEC.BAT and CONFIG.SYS files on your Reference 1 diskette are now customized for the country you selected. The System Configuration program also sets the format of the date and time in your computer’s real-time clock to the appropriate format for the country you selected.
Chapter 2 Running System Configuration The System Configuration program, provided with your system on the Reference 1 diskette, allows you to configure your computer.
Note The first time you configure your computer, you must run the program from the Reference 1 diskette and it is best to always run it from there. How to Use This Chapter This chapter is divided into the following four sections: CI The Configuration Process describes the various aspects of configuring your computer using the System Configuration program. It also tells you how to use the keyboard or a mouse with the program and how to use on-line help.
The Configuration Process This section describes the following configuration operations: Ci Using the configuration files Ll Using the keyboard or a mouse with the program Li Using on-line help. Using Configuration Files Configuration (or CFG) files provide information to the system about a card’s functions and resource requirements so your computer can allocate its resources efficiently. They also provide instructions for setting any switches and jumpers on ISA cards.
Using the Keyboard If you use a keyboard when you run the System Configuration program, refer to the table below for a description of the keys you can use to move the cursor and select items. If you’ll be using a mouse with the program, see “Using a Mouse” below. Most of the screens show which keys you can press to perform various operations. Follow the instructions on each screen. Whenever the icon is highlighted, press w to select .
To select most options, place the cursor on the option and click the left button once to highlight it and again to select it. When you see m or m on the screen, you can scroll the text. Place the cursor on the arrow indicating the scroll direction and hold down the left button. Release it to stop. Keep in mind that this chapter gives keyboard instructions when describing how to use the System Configuration program. You should substitute the appropriate mouse equivalents when performing the same operations.
Configuring Your System Follow the instructions in this section and on your screen to configure your computer using the System Configuration program.
3. Press IEnter You see the Main Menu: Main Menu Learn about configuring your computer Configure computer Set date Set time Access to other utilities Maintain system configuration diskette Exit from this utility Note If you installed any EISA option cards in your system, the program first asks you to insert a diskette containing a CFG file for the EISA card.
Setting the Date and Time The real-time clock in your computer continuously tracks the date and time-even when the computer is turned off. The first time you run the configuration program, set the date and time for your computer. You can set them again later to adjust your clock for seasonal time adjustments, such as daylight savings time. The computer automatically changes the date for leap years. Follow these steps to set the date and time: 1. At the Main Menu, select Set date.
Performing the Configuration Steps Follow these steps to configure your computer: 1. At the Main Menu, select Configure computer. You see this menu: Steps in configuring your computer Step 1: Step Step Step Step 2: 3: 4: 5: Important EPSON EISA configuration information Add or remove boards View or edit details Examine required switches Save and exit 2. Select Step 1 and read the information displayed on your screen about configuring your system.
Adding or Removing a Board Select Step 2: Add or remove boards when you need to add or remove an option card. The program displays a list of the computer’s slots with a description of any boards or cards that it detects. The computer automatically detects EISA cards, but you must add the necessary ISA card information. Follow the instructions on the screen to add, move, or remove an option card. When you add an option card, you need the configuration diskette that came with the card.
The table below describes the settings available for each of the system board options.
System board options (continued) 2-12 Running System Configuration
System board options (continued) Running System Configuration 2-13
System board options (continued) Non-cache areas Your computer automatically caches all of your memory except for the six non-cache memory blocks listed in the table below. You can define up to three additional, 16KB, non-cache memory blocks by selecting the User defined non-cache area(s) option and entering the block addresses.
Hard disk drive types The following table lists the types of hard disk drives you can use in your computer. Check this table and the manual that came with your hard disk to find the correct type for the hard disk drive(s) installed in your computer. Then select that type at the hard disk drive Type prompt. If you do not find your drive type in the table, select User defined and enter your drive’s parameters.
2-16 Running System Configuration
Hard disk drive types (continued) (1) Miniscribe 8425F. Seagate ST125 (2) For Seagate (formerly CDC Imprimis) default setting (34 sectors per track) (3) Micropolis 1325, Atasi 3085, Lanstor Lan64, Maxtor XT1085, Newbury NDR1085 (4) Micropolis 1323A. Miniscribe 3035, Microscience HH1050. Seagate ST4053 (5) Epson IDE drives: 40MB (type 59). 1 OOMB (type 60).
The table below describes the operations you can select from the Advanced menu and its submenus.
Using Alternate Configuration Files When you save your configuration in your computer’s CMOS, the computer also creates or updates the System Configuration file called SYSTEM.SCI. You can also create an alternate SCI file with a different name for your own computer or for another Epson EISA computer. You may want to create an alternate configuration for your own computer that includes a different set of option cards.
The program asks you to name the alternate SCI file you create. Do not name the file SYSTEM.SCI; this is the name of your current configuration file. Use the third method only when you are running the configuration program on a non-target computer. This method protects you from accidentally saving the configuration you create in that computer’s CMOS. See “Using Special Modes” for instructions on using non-target modeling mode.
Using Special Modes You can run the System Configuration program in various special modes, including non-target modeling mode, by starting the program with one of the two commands described in this section. You can also use these commands to run the program from a hard disk that runs MS-DOS if you copy the necessary files to the disk first. The SD command starts the System Configuration program and allows you to run that program or any of the other utilities available on the Access to other utilities menu.
The table below describes the parameters you can use to modify the way the program runs on your computer. Note To run the System Configuration program in non-target modeling mode, add the /N parameter to the command line. Modeling mode only affects the way the configuration program operates; it does not affect any of the other utilities you can run using the SD command.
Then follow these steps to use the CF command: 1. To run the program from a diskette, insert the Reference 1 diskette in drive A and log onto drive A. To run the program from a hard disk, log onto the drive and directory where you copied the configuration files. 2. Then type the following and press B to start the program: CF [parameters] The table below describes the parameters you can use to modify the way the program runs on your computer.
Copying the Configuration Files to a Hard Disk To run the System Configuration program from your hard disk, you must be running the MS-DOS operating system from that disk. To copy all the configuration files from the Reference 1 diskette to the hard disk, insert the diskette in drive A, type the following command, and press I: COPY A:*.* [d:] [path] where d: and path are the drive and directory to which you want to copy the files.
Chapter 3 Using Your Computer This chapter briefly describes the following operations: II Locking the computer’s cover Ll Using a power-on password Ll Changing the processor speed Cl Parking the hard disk drive heads. Locking the Computer’s Cover You can lock the cover onto the computer to prevent unauthorized users from accessing its internal components. To lock the cover, insert the key as shown on the left and turn it clockwise.
Using a Power-on Password If you set a power-on password when you ran the System Configuration program, you must enter it every time you turn on the computer. Follow these steps to enter your password: 1. When you turn on the computer, you see the following prompt: Enter password: 2. Type your password. The screen does not display the characters you type. Then press [Enter. After you enter the correct password, you see Password Then the computer loads your operating system. OK.
Changing or Deleting a Password You can change or delete a password when you see the Enter password prompt. Follow these steps: 1. Turn on the computer. You see the prompt to enter a password. 2. To change the password, type the current password followed by a forward slash (/). After the slash, enter the new password you want to use.
If you set a password but do not turn on network server mode, you must enter the password before the computer loads the operating system or the network software. Once you load it, anyone can access your system by typing commands on the keyboard. However, if you set a password and turn on network server mode, you can load the operating system and network software before you enter the password.
Note If you boot from a diskette, you see the Enter password prompt. Enter your password as described under “Using a Power-on Password” above. You cannot change or delete a password when you boot from the hard disk in network server mode. First insert a bootable diskette in drive A and turn on the computer. Then change or delete the password, as described in the previous section. If you delete the password, the computer automatically turns off network server mode.
If you often use a copy-protected program diskette, you may want to set your processor speed to change automatically to low speed when accessing the diskette and return to high speed when it is finished. There are three ways to change the processor speed: LI Run the System Configuration program (power-on simulation speed setting) U Enter a keyboard command (temporary speed setting) Q Run the ESPEED program (temporary speed setting).
Note You can use the commands listed above while you are running a program. However, if that program uses one of these commands for another function, you cannot use it to change the processor speed. For example, if the program uses the (F] [AltIlT] command to move the cursor, you cannot enter [xl IAltll~] to change the processor speed to low. Another alternative is to use the ESPEED program, described below.
You can use one of these parameters: ESPEED program parameters If you do not include the parameter when you type the ESPEED command, the program displays the command syntax and parameter options. The processor speed you set remains in effect until you press RESET or turn off the computer, or until you change it to a different setting. Parking the Hard Disk Drive Heads If you need to move your computer to a new location, you may want to park the hard disk drive heads to protect the disk during the move.
Follow these steps to run HDDPARK: 1. Insert the Reference 2 diskette in drive A and log onto that drive. 2. Type HDDPARK and press IEnter The computer locks the heads and disables the keyboard. 3. Remove any diskettes and turn off the computer. Note You can also run HDDPARK by selecting Access t o o t h e r utilities from the Main Menu of the System Configuration program. Then select Park hard disk. You can also copy the files HDDPARK.COM and HDDPARK.
Chapter 4 Accessing lnternal Components To access your computer’s internal components, you need to remove the cover. You may also need to remove the front panel and the subassembly (the metal case that holds the drive bays). The instructions in this chapter explain how to do these tasks: tl Remove and replace the cover Ll Remove and replace the front panel 0 Remove and replace the subassembly 0 Perform post-installation setup procedures. Read the following safety precautions before you begin.
0 Every time you remove the cover, be sure to ground yourself by touching the inside of the computer’s back panel before you touch any components inside. If you are not properly grounded, you could conduct static electricity and damage your components. Also, do not touch any components except those that this manual instructs you to touch.
Follow these steps to remove the cover: 1. Turn off the computer and any peripheral devices connected to it. Then disconnect the computer’s power cord from the electrical outlet and from the back panel. Also disconnect any peripheral device cables that are connected to the computer, including the keyboard cable. 2. Turn the computer around so you are facing the back panel. 3. If necessary, unlock the computer’s cover. (See Chapter 3 for instructions.) 4.
5. Grasp the sides of the cover (toward the front of the computer) and pull it firmly back toward you, as shown below. Then lift it up and off the computer. Removing the Front Panel You must remove the computer’s front panel to install or remove a disk drive from the external drive bay or to remove the subassembly from the computer. Follow these steps: 1. 4-4 Turn the computer so you are facing the front panel.
2. Release the six tabs securing the front panel to the computer case, as shown below. You may want to use a flat-blade screwdriver to release the tabs. 3. Once these tabs are free, grasp the sides of the front panel and pull it straight toward you, as shown below. Be careful not to pull the panel off at an angle; this may bend or pop off the power and RESET buttons. If a button pops off, carefully place it back onto its post.
Removing the Subassembly You need to remove the subassembly if you are installing your first hard disk drive, removing your only hard disk drive, or installing or removing a hard disk drive that is mounted next to the power supply. Follow these steps: 1. Turn the computer so you are facing its front side. 4-6 2. Disconnect the power supply and drive cables from the backs of all the drives installed in your computer. Note which cables are connected to which drives so you can easily reconnect them later.
4. Grasp the back of the subassembly by the edge on its upper left side, as shown below, and lift up the back end. 5. Pull the subassembly forward slightly to release it from the two pins beneath the front panel opening.
6. Holding the subassembly up, disconnect the diskette and hard disk drive cable connectors from their sockets on the main system board. 7. Now lift the subassembly out of the computer and place it on your work surface. Replacing the Subassembly Follow these steps to replace the subassembly: 1. Turn the computer so you are facing its front side. 4-8 2.
5. Lower the back end of the subassembly into the computer. If necessary, align the post beneath the back right edge of the subassembly with the hole on the top of the power supply. Then lower the subassembly all the way down. 6. Gather the power supply and drive cables and place them in the clasps on the side of the subassembly, as shown below. Snap the clasps shut.
7. Connect the necessary power supply and drive cables to the backs of all your drives, as described in Chapter 6. Replacing the Front Panel Follow these steps to replace the computer’s front panel: 4-10 1. Turn the computer so you are facing its front side. 2. Align the openings in the front panel with the power button, RESET button, and drives that extend out from the front of your computer case. Also align the front panel tabs with their corresponding notches in the case.
Replacing the Cover Follow these steps to replace the computer’s cover: 1. Turn the computer so you are facing the back panel. 2. Hold the cover at a slight angle, as shown below, and lower the front part onto the computer. Then lower the back of the cover. 3. Slide the cover forward until the front edge overlaps the top edge of the front panel. 4. Tighten the three thumbscrews on the back panel to secure the cover to the computer. 5. Lock the cover onto the computer, if desired. 6.
Post-installation Setup Procedures After you install or remove options, you need to run the System Configuration program on your Reference 1 diskette so you can update your system’s configuration information. The program will automatically update the information about some optional equipment, such as additional memory or a math coprocessor. See Chapter 2 for instructions. If you installed a hard disk drive that has never received a low-level format, you need to format the disk.
Chapter 5 Installing and Removing Options This chapter provides instructions for installing and removing the following optional equipment: Q Option cards Ll Math coprocessor Q Memory modules (SIMMs). It also includes instructions for removing and installing the processor board to replace it or to add a math coprocessor. At the beginning of this chapter, you’ll find maps of your main system board and the available processor boards.
Main System Board Map Use the following illustration to locate components on your main system board.
Processor Board Maps Refer to the appropriate illustration below to locate components on your processor board.
Option Cards Your computer has five option slots, each of which accommodate one card of the following types: 0 32-bit EISA bus master option card tl 16-bit ISA compatible option card Ll 8-bit ISA compatible option card. can Before you install an option card, check all the power requirements given in the documentation that came with the card.
Installing Option Cards Follow these steps to install an option card: 1. Unpack the option card and adjust any switches or jumpers on it, if necessary. Check the option card instructions and any of the jumper and switch settings you viewed when you ran the System Configuration program. See Chapter 2 for more information. 2. Remove the retaining screw from the top of the metal option slot cover and lift out the slot cover, as shown below. Keep the screw to secure the option card to the computer.
3. Insert the card into the slot with the connector pins pointing down, as shown below. If you are installing a full-length card, insert the other end of the card into the appropriate card guide near the front of the computer. Push the card downward firmly to insert it as far as it will go. 4. Secure the end of the card to the back of the computer with the retaining screw. Removing Option Cards If you need to remove an option card, reverse the steps outlined above.
Processor Boards Your computer comes with an upgradeable processor board. To upgrade the board, you can: Ll Install a math coprocessor Ll Install a new coprocessor (486SX/25 only) Q Replace the processor board with a different board. Removing the Processor Board You need to remove the processor board to install or remove a math coprocessor on the board, or if you want to install a different processor board. Follow these steps: 1.
3. Pull the board straight up and out of the system board interface sockets; do not rock it back and forth. 4. If you are installing a math coprocessor, place the board on a static-free surface with the component side facing up and see the “Math Coprocessor” section in this chapter. If you are replacing the processor board, store it in an anti-static bag in a safe location. See the next section for instructions on installing the new processor board.
Math Coprocessor A math coprocessor speeds up the numeric calculations your computer performs when using some applications. It also increases the speed at which graphic images are displayed on your monitor when you use graphics-oriented software. You can install the following coprocessors: Coprocessors Installing a Math Coprocessor Carefully follow the steps below to install a math coprocessor. 1. Remove the processor board from the computer. See page 5-7 for instructions. 2.
3. Turn the coprocessor so that the orientation dot in one corner is in the position shown below. Align the coprocessor pins with the holes in the socket and gently push the coprocessor into the socket, pressing evenly on all sides. Caution If you insert the math coprocessor in the wrong position, you could permanently damage it. Examine the coprocessor to be sure it is inserted all the way into the socket. 4. Reinstall the processor board. See page 5-8.
Memory Modules Your computer comes with 4MB of memory provided by SIMMs (single inline memory modules) which are installed on the main system board. You can install additional SIMMs to increase your computer’s memory to 64MB. There are eight SIMM sockets on the main system board. Each socket can contain either a single-sided or double-sided SIMM. The SIMMs must all be 70ns (nanosecond), 36-bit, 72-pin, gold-leaded, fast-page mode SIMMs. The SIMM sockets are organized in two banks, as shown below.
The table below describes the type of SIMMs you can install in these sockets. SIMM description The SIMMs for your computer are usually described first by their number of logical sides (single or double) and then by the number of bits they contain multiplied by the width of the data bus (256Kbx36). Check with your dealer to make sure you install the correct type of SIMMs. You can install these SIMMs in many different ways.
The table below gives examples of valid SIMM configurations you can use in your computer. Example SIMM configurations l Factory configuration Once you have determined where to add SIMMs, follow the instructions below to install them. If you need to remove the four 1MB SIMMs that came with your system, see “Removing Memory Modules” on page 5-15. Installing Memory Modules Follow these steps to install SIMMs: 1. If necessary, see the main system board illustration 5-2 to locate the SIMM sockets. 2.
Position each SIMM so its notched edge is toward the back of the computer; then insert it in the socket at an angle as shown below. 3. 5-14 Gently press down on the SIMM and, at the same time, press the top to the left until it is vertical and clicks into place between the metal tabs and the retaining posts.
Make sure the SIMM is fully inserted into the socket and that the retaining posts pins fit into the holes at both ends. 4. Repeat steps 2 and 3 for each SIMM you want to install. Removing Memory Modules If you need to remove memory modules from your computer, follow the steps below. Check the information on page 5-11 to be sure you remove SIMMs from the correct sockets. 1. It is easiest to remove the SIMMs from the sockets closest to the processor board first.
Chapter 6 Installing and Removing Drives The instructions in this chapter describe how to install and remove optional Epson drives in your computer. You can use these instructions to install a variety of devices, including diskette drives, hard disk drives, and tape drives. Even if your drive looks a bit different from the one illustrated here, you install it the same way.
Using the Correct Drive Bay Your system can hold up to five half-height drives or a combination of third-, half-, and full-height drives. As shown below, there are two drive bays: the external drive bay and the internal drive bay. subassembly internal drive bay external drive bay The external bay can accommodate up to three drives in the following configurations: Ll One third-height drive and two half-height drives tl One third-height drive and one full-height drive.
If you are installing a hard disk, it is best to install it in the internal bay. This reserves the external bay for any accessible drives you may want to add later. If you prefer, however, you can install a hard disk in the external bay; just leave the drive slot cover installed in the front panel. You can install 3½-inch drives in the internal bay. In the external bay, you can install 5¼-inch drives or 3½-inch drives with 5¼-inch mounting frames attached.
If you install two hard disk drives, you must change the jumper settings on each drive to indicate which is the master (primary) and which is the slave (secondary). The primary drive is the one from which you boot your computer. Changing the Jumper Settings The following illustration shows the location of the jumpers on the optional Epson 200MB IDE hard disk drive.
Set the jumpers according to the table below. Hard disk drive jumper settings X = jumper installed — = no jumper installed Note If you install two 200MB hard disk drives, install one jumper from each drive in the two jumper positions on the master drive. Do not install any jumpers on the slave drive. To install or remove a drive in the internal bay, see page 6-14. To install or remove a drive in the external bay, see the next section.
Installing a Drive On each interior side of the external drive bay, there is a plastic guide with four support grooves, as shown below. You need to select the appropriate grooves for your drive depending on the size of the drive and where you want to locate it. The third-height diskette drive that came with your computer is installed in the grooves at the top of the bay. instructions that came with the drive to install the frame.
Follow the steps below to install a drive in the external bay. 1. Locate the following parts that came with your computer for each drive you will install: Ct two metal drive brackets Ct four retaining screws (with attached flat washers) Ll two nuts (with attached star washers) Q small wrench. 2. Attach one bracket to each side of the drive, as shown below. Loosely secure each bracket with two retaining screws.
3. Slide the drive into the bay as shown below, aligning the bracket screws on each side with the appropriate grooves in the drive bay guide. 4. Guide the holes in the front of the brackets over the threaded posts on the front of the subassembly. Then push the drive all the way into the drive bay. 5. Secure the drive to the drive bay with the two nuts. 6. You may need to adjust the drive’s position in the drive bay by sliding it along the drive brackets.
8. Locate one of the power supply cables (labelled Pl through P5) in the clasps on the left side of the subassembly. (You can use any one that is available.) Align the notched corners on the cable connector and the socket on the back of the drive, as shown below. Then push in the connector. 9. Locate the appropriate drive cable for the drive. If you installed a diskette or tape drive, go to step 10. If you installed a hard disk drive, go to step 12.
Align the cable connector with the drive interface so that the divider in the connector lines up with the gap in the interface, as shown below. Then push in the connector. 11. To remove the slot cover for the drive you just installed, turn the front panel so you are looking at the inside of the panel. Press outward on the slot cover tabs, as shown below, and pop out the slot cover.
12. Locate the hard disk drive cable. If you are installing your first hard disk drive, this cable came in the box with your computer. If you are installing a second drive, the cable is attached to your internal hard disk drive. Align the available cable connector with the drive socket so the row in the connector with the blocked hole lines up with the row in the socket with the missing pin, as shown below. Then push in the connector.
Removing a Drive Follow these steps to remove a drive from the external bay: 1. 2. 6-12 Disconnect the power supply and drive cables from the back of the drive you want to remove, as shown below. Use the small wrench to remove the two nuts securing the metal drive brackets to the front of the drive bay, as shown below.
3. Grasp the drive from the front and pull it out. Note If you are removing an IDE hard disk drive from the external bay and it is your only hard disk drive, you must also remove the hard disk drive cable from its connector on the main system board. First follow the instructions in Chapter 4 to remove the subassembly. After disconnecting the cable from the main system board connector, replace the subassembly in the computer as described in Chapter 4. 4.
Installing or Removing a Drive in the Internal Bay You can install only 3½-inch hard disk drives in your computer’s internal drive bay. If you are installing your first hard disk drive, install it in the position farthest from the power supply. If you are installing your first hard disk drive, removing your only hard disk drive, or installing or removing a hard disk drive in the position next to the power supply, first remove the front panel and subassembly as described in Chapter 4.
Removing a Drive Follow these steps to remove an internal drive: 1. Disconnect the power supply and drive cables from the drive (if you have not already done so), as shown below. 2. Remove the four screws securing the drive to the internal bay.
Note If you remove one IDE hard disk drive and leave another one in the computer, you must set the jumpers on the remaining drive to indicate that you now have only one drive installed. Remove the remaining drive by following steps 1 and 2 above; then see page 6-3 for instructions on setting the jumpers. 3. If you are removing your only IDE hard disk drive, you have already disconnected the cable from the main system board connector.
2. Adjust the drive’s position so that the four mounting screw holes on the drive are aligned with the corresponding holes in the drive bay. Then secure the drive with the four retaining screws that came with it.
3. If you are installing your first hard disk drive, you must locate the hard disk drive cable that came with your computer. You connect this cable to the appropriate connector on the main system board. This connector, labelled IDE, is located next to the diskette drive connector. Connect the cable to the IDE connector, aligning the tab on the cable with the notch on the connector. tab notch IDE 4. Connect the power supply and drive cables, as described below.
Align the notched corners of the cable connector with the notched comers of the drive socket, as shown below. Then push in the connector. 3. Locate the cable for each drive installed in the internal drive bay. If you removed the subassembly earlier, also reconnect the drive cable(s) to the drive(s) in the external bay. See page 6-9 for instructions on connecting a diskette drive cable.
To connect the cable, align the cable connector with the drive interface so the connector row that has a blocked hole lines up with the interface row that has a missing pin, as shown below. Then push in the connector. missing pin blocked hole Note If you are connecting a non-Epson drive, see the manual that came with it for instructions on connecting the drive cable. 6-20 4. Arrange the drive and power cables so you can close the clasps on the side of the subassembly. 5.
Appendix A Running System Diagnostics You can test the following devices using the System diagnostics program: tl System board Lt Numeric coprocessor Cl System memory 0 Diskette drive(s) LI Hard disk drive(s) c3 Serial port(s) tl Parallel port(s) Cl Dot matrix printer(s). For some devices, you can run more than one type of test. See the table on page A-7 for a list of the tests available for each device.
Starting the Program Follow these steps to start the System diagnostics program: 1. Insert the Reference 1 diskette in drive A and turn on or reset the computer. Note Always boot the computer from the Reference 1 diskette to start System diagnostics. This clears from memory any protected mode terminate-and-stay-resident (TSR) programs or other utilities and frees it for use by the diagnostics program. 2. After a moment, you see the title screen for the System Configuration program.
When the list is correct, you can run diagnostic tests on each device. If you do not want to test a device, you can remove it from the list. You can also add a device to the list. Deleting Tests To remove devices from the Items Detected list so the System diagnostics program cannot test them, follow these steps: 1. Press m to select Delete Tests.
Adding Tests If you want to add devices to the Items Detected list, follow these steps: 1. Press It) or a to select Add Tests. You see the Add menu, such as the following: Diskette Drive B Hard Disk Drive #2 Parallel Port LPT2 Parallel Port LPT3 LPT2 Printer Test The Add menu lists the testable devices that the computer has not detected in your system. You also see any devices that you deleted from the Delete menu in case you want to be able to test them. A-4 2.
Running Tests Follow these steps to run a test from the Execute menu: 1. Press It) or m to select Execute. You see the Execute menu, such as the following: System Board Numeric Coprocessor System Memory Diskette Drive A Hard Disk Drive #l Serial Port COMl Serial Port COM2 Parallel Port LPTl LPTl Printer Test 2. Press m or m to highlight the device you want to test and press m. You seethe Repeat prompt: How often to repeat test? 1 3.
Use [rl or m or type the number of the desired option to highlight a test and then press CEnter] to run it. Note If you selected to run the tests more than once, you do not see a submenu. The program immediately begins executing all the tests that do not destroy data. 5. When the test is completed, you see the Execute menu or the test submenu again. You can select another test or exit the menu. To exit System diagnostics, press (-1) to select Quit and press [Enter.
System Diagnostic Tests The table below lists all the System diagnostic tests you can run on your system. System diagnostic tests l The Write, read check destroys data on the disk. Be sure to back up data on a hard disk or insert a blank, formatted diskette before running this test.
Error Messages The following table lists all the error messages that may appear during System diagnostic testing.
System diagnostic error messages (continued) Running System Diagnostics A-9
Appendix B Formatting a Hard Disk This appendix describes how to low-level (or physically) format a hard disk. This procedure should not be confused with the logical format performed by your operating system. The physical formatting of a hard disk is a separate step that is usually done at the factory by the disk manufacturer. If your computer came with a factory-installed hard disk, or if you installed an optional Epson IDE hard disk, it has already been physically formatted.
Note Sometimes, after a hard disk has been used for a long time, its data becomes fragmented, causing the disk to perform less efficiently or produce errors. If this happens, check your operating system manual for procedures you can perform to reorganize your data on the hard disk. If those procedures (or a commercial defragmenting utility) do not solve the problem, you may want to reformat the disk by following the instructions in this chapter.
You see the Hard Disk Format Menu: 1 - Format 2 - Destructive surface analysis 3 - Non-destructive surface analysis 0 - Exit The option you choose depends on whether you are formatting a new disk or reformatting a used disk. The options work as follows: Ll Format first scans the disk for defective (bad) tracks (if it has no defective track table) and lets you decide which tracks to mark as bad. Then it formats the disk and marks the bad tracks so they are never used to store data.
Reformatting a Used Disk To reformat a disk you have been using, follow these steps: 1. Use the Non-destructive surface analysis option to check for unflagged bad tracks. 2. If errors occur during the Non-destructive surface analysis, back up your hard disk to diskettes. 3. Run the Destructive surface analysis option to update the defective track table. 4. Run the Format option to format the disk. Selecting an Option When you use this program, you often need to select an option from a menu.
Option I, Format If you select Format from the Hard Disk Format Menu, you see the following (for a disk with no defective track table): Format Hard Disk < Drive n: > Scan hard disk to get defective track information? (Y/N) (If the disk already has a defective track table, you do not see this because you do not need to scan for bad tracks.) 1. Select Y to scan the disk or N to skip the scanning process.
For an Epson hard disk drive, it is best to accept the recommended skewed sector (also called the interleave factor) of 1, since this setting allows your drive to perform more efficiently. For other hard disk drives, you may need to change this value if the documentation that came with the disk recommends a different number. To accept the default, select Y. Then go to step 3. To enter a new value, select N.
4. The program now allows you to edit the defective track table. At the bottom of the table is this prompt: Modify defective track table ? (Y/N) Select N if you want to leave the table as it is. Then skip the next section and go to “Formatting the Disk” on page B-9. To add bad tracks to the defective track table, see the next section.
If you make a mistake, move the cursor block to the incorrect track and press a to change the track data or [Dl to delete the track from the table. Change the track data in the same way as you add a track. The maximum valid cylinder number and head number (nnnn and nn) vary according to the capacity of the hard disk. If you enter an invalid cylinder or head number, a reminder of the range of values appears and the program asks you to enter the value again.
If you continue with formatting, you see: Format started. Head : n n n Cylinder : nnnnn 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 m to return to the Hard Disk Format Menu.
To start this test, select 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 decreases the cylinder numbers 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.
If the program finds an unflagged bad track, the report is followed by a table like this: Write, Read Error Tracks Cylinder Head 237 Cylinder Head Cylinder Head Cylinder Head 2 Confirm to register the tracks in the Write, Read Error Track Table as bad tracks. Do you want to register the error tracks as bad tracks? (Y/N) To flag these tracks as bad, select Y. You see a list of the tracks as they are flagged. When the process is complete, press CEnter) to return to the Hard Disk Format Menu.
As the program checks each track, it decreases the cylinder numbers to zero. When the test is complete, the program displays a report on the status of the disk, such as the following: Analysis finished. = n Count of tracks flagged bad n Count of tracks with read, verify errors = = nnnn Count of good tracks No read, verify error was detected. If the program finds errors, the screen displays a table of the tracks that produced the errors. Then you see this message: Press ENTER to return to the menu.
Appendix C 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 also run System diagnostic tests on various system components. See Appendix A for instructions. If the suggestions here or in Appendix A do not help solve the problem, see “Where to Get Help” in the Introduction for instructions on contacting your dealer or Epson customer service.
2. At the command prompt, enter the appropriate command to display the version number of your operating system. Write it down, and then obtain the version numbers of any application programs you are using. Error Messages Your computer’s built-in memory (ROM) contains a series of diagnostic programs, called power-on diagnostics. These programs check various internal devices every time you turn on the computer. The RAM test displays a count of the memory currently installed in your system.
Power-on diagnostic error tone codes Troubleshooting C-3
Power-on diagnostic error tone codes (continued) C-4 Troubleshooting
Power or Lock-up Problems If you are having trouble with the computer’s power or the system locks up, see the suggestions below. The computer does not start when you turn if on. Turn off the power and check the following: U Be sure all cables are securely connected to the computer. Ll Check that the computer and monitor power cords are plugged completely into their electrical outlets. tl Test the outlet to see if it supplies power. The computer starts but the screen is blank.
Q If you think the problem may be caused by a loose physical connection inside the computer, follow these steps: 1. Remove any diskettes and then turn off your peripheral devices and your computer. 2. Disconnect the computer’s power cord and peripheral device cables and then remove the computer’s cover, as described in Chapter 4. 3. Ground yourself by touching the inside back panel of the computer case before you perform the next step. 4.
The computer does not respond when you type. If you have just turned on the computer, check the following: Li Make sure your keyboard is securely connected to the computer. Ct If you entered the wrong password and cannot access your system, see “Password Problems” below. If you are running a software program, try these procedures: D If your computer is processing a complicated command or performing a complex task, it may take a long time to complete its work.
When these circuits detect a high temperature, they shut off all the DC outputs in the power supply and your computer stops operating. This does not damage the power supply, but you must remove the cause of the high temperature before you can use your system again, To restore normal power supply operation, follow these steps: 1. Turn off the computer and leave it off for at least 30 seconds to reset the power supply logic. 2.
Password Problems If you set a password using the System Configuration program and you have trouble using your password, check the section below that describes the problem you are having. You enter the password, but nothing happens. Type the password again and press [Enter. You have three chances to enter it correctly before the system locks up. If this happens, press RESET to reboot the computer and try again.
2. Replace the computer’s cover. (See Chapter 4 for instructions.) 3. If you do not have a hard disk, insert a bootable diskette in drive A. Turn on the computer and allow it to load the operating system. 4. Then turn off the computer, remove the cover, and enable the password function by setting jumper Jl on the main system board to position B. If you removed any option cards, follow the instructions in Chapter 5 to replace them now. 5. Replace the computer’s cover.
When the computer reboots, you see the Enter password prompt. Enter the password to access your system. Note If you turned on network server mode when you set a new password and then booted your system from the hard disk, you do not see the Enter password prompt. Follow the instructions in Chapter 3 to enter your password in network server mode. Keyboard Problems Q Make sure the keyboard is securely connected to its port. 0 If you are still having problems, see “Power or Lock-up Problems” above.
The monitor does not display images correctly. Ll Make sure your monitor and display adapter card match. Also, be sure any switches or jumpers on the card are set properly. See the documentation that came with your monitor and display adapter for instructions. 0 Be sure you chose the correct display adapter type in the System Configuration program. Also check the recommended switch and jumper settings. (See Chapter 2.
Diskette Drive Problems If you think there is something wrong with your diskette drive, check this section. You see an error message or have difficulty with a diskette drive. D If you are having problems with a new diskette drive that your dealer installed for you, consult the dealer about the problem. If you installed the drive yourself, review all the instructions in Chapter 6. Check all the cable connections and make sure you have installed the drive correctly.
Hard Disk Problems If you think there is something wrong with your hard disk, see the suggestions below. You have problems with a newly-installed drive. 0 If your dealer installed the drive, consult your dealer about the problem. LI If you installed the hard disk yourself, make sure you carefully followed all the instructions in Chapter 6. Review the instructions and check all the cable connections to make sure you have installed it correctly.
You notice a reduction in hard disk performance. Cl The data on the disk may have become fragmented. You may want to back up all your data and then use a disk compaction utility to reorganize the files on your disk. Contact your dealer for information. Cl If you cannot access data on your hard disk or you are receiving read/write errors, the disk may have a physical problem. Try running the Hard drive System diagnostic tests on the drive, as described in Appendix A.
Printer Problems Ll Make sure the printer has power and is properly connected to the computer. (Also, be sure your printer has paper in it.) LI Check the printer manual for the printer’s correct DIP switch or control panel settings. Q If you are using more than one parallel port or more than one serial port, check the primary and secondary port settings in the System Configuration program to make sure they are correct. See Chapter 2 for instructions.
Q If necessary, make sure that you used the proper cable to connect the device to the option card connector. Memory Module Problems tl If the memory count displayed by power-on diagnostics or the System Configuration program is incorrect, you or your dealer may not have installed the SIMMs correctly. The SIMMs may be installed in the wrong sockets, they may be the wrong type of SIMM, or they may not be inserted all the way into their sockets.
Ll Be sure that you set the built-in mouse port option in the System Configuration program correctly for your mouse port. See Chapter 2 for more information. Q If you are still having trouble with your mouse, check the documentation that came with it for troubleshooting information or contact your mouse dealer. Math Coprocessor Problems Cl Run the System Configuration program and make sure that the math coprocessor is listed as Installed on the View or edit details screen for the system board.
Appendix D Specifications Main System Board System memory 4MB RAM standard on SIMMs; expandable using lMB, 2MB, 4MB, or 8MB SIMMs up to 64MB (maximum); SIMMs must be 70ns, 36-bit, 72-pin, gold-leaded, fast-page mode type BIOS Two-part system BIOS; one 64KB permanent BIOS on an EPROM; one 64KB CPU-dependent BIOS in a FLASH ROM device Shadow RAM Automatically copies the system BIOS from ROM into RAM; shadow RAM for video BIOS and external BIOS is software selectable EISA configuration 8KB SRAM; battery
Mouse Mini DIN, 6-pin connector for PS/2 compatible mouse or other device Keyboard Mini DIN, 6-pin connector for PS/2 compatible keyboard Option slots Five 32-bit EISA expansion slots (16-bit and B-bit ISA compatible); bus-mastering option cards allowable in all slots Speaker Internal; operation and volume controllable by software Controllers Diskette and tape drive Controller on the main system board supports up to two diskette drives in any of these formats: 5¼-inch, high-density, 1.
Processor Board CPU 486SX/25 board: Intel 80486SX, 25 MHz microprocessor 486DX/33 board: Intel 80486DX, 33 MHz microprocessor Both boards: simulated 8 MHz and other processor simulation speeds selectable through software Cache memory 486SX/25 board: 8KB internal cache in the 80486SX microprocessor 486DX/33 board: 8KB internal cache in the 80486DX microprocessor; 64KB Intel 82485MA-33 Turbocache module with write-through, two-way set associative cache memory and controller Math coprocessor 486SX/25 boar
Power Supply Type 235W, fan-cooled, automatic input voltage sensing, thermally protected Input ranges 98 to 132 VAC and 196 to 264 VAC, 47 to 63 Hz Maximum current At 110 Volts, 6 Amps; at 240 Volts, 3.3 Amps Power supply maximum outputs l The +12 V peak current is limited to 30 seconds maximum.
Keyboard Detachable, two position, 101 or 102 sculpted keys Layout Country-dependent main typewriter keyboard; numeric/cursor control keypad; four-key cursor control keypad; 12 function keys Environmental Requirements Physical Characteristics Width 17 inches (432 mm) Depth 16 inches (406 mm) Height 6.5 inches (165 mm) Weight Single diskette drive model (without keyboard): 26 lb (11.
Power Source Requirements 120 Volt power source requirements 240 Volt power source requirements D-6 Specifications
System Memory Map Use of the memory areas for video memory and the video BIOS depends upon the type of video adapter card installed.
Glossary 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. A standardized coding system for representing characters, such as numbers, letters, and graphic symbols. An ASCII character occupies one byte of storage.
Base memory The memory in the computer below 1MB that is available to MS-DOS and application programs-usually 640KB. Also called conventional memory or main memory. Batch file A type of file that lets you execute a series of commands by typing one command. Batch files are text files with the filename extension .BAT. When you type the filename, the operating system executes all the commands in that file sequentially. BIOS Basic Input/Output System.
CFG (configuration) file A file that provides the System Configuration program with all the information it needs about your system board or an option card. Most EISA and ISA cards come with CFG files. Some CFG files for ISA cards are included on the Reference 3 diskette. 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 fourcolor graphics at 320 x 200 resolution.
Control code A command (generated when you hold down C and press another key on the keyboard) that instructs the computer to perform a specific function. Coprocessor An optional device that enables the computer to process certain mathematical calculations faster. Copy-protected program A type of program that cannot be copied. Some copy-protected programs require you to leave the program diskette in the drive while you are using it.
Default Any value or setting that takes 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. Device driver A file containing instructions that allow your computer to recognize and control a device. Diagnostics The tests and procedures the computer performs to check its internal circuitry and set up its configuration. DIP switch Dual Inline Package switch.
DMA channel Direct Memory Access channel. The pathway through which data is transferred between main storage and I/O devices. This transfer method requires no processor intervention. DOS Disk Operating System. A commonly used operating system that controls the computer’s input and output functions. See also Operating system. Double-density A type of diskette format that allows you to store twice as much data as the standard-density format. A 5¼-inch double-density diskette can store 360KB of data.
Expanded memory Memory that specially written MS-DOS application programs can use with an Expanded Memory Specification (EMS) device driver. Extended Memory Memory above 1MB that is accessed by the protected mode of the microprocessor and is available to some application programs and operating systems. Fast-page mode A dynamic memory mode that allows successive addresses to access the same DRAM page by changing the column addresses. FLASH memory Non-volatile, rewritable, random access memory.
High-density A type of format that allows you to store more data than on single- or double-density diskettes. A 5¼-inch high-density diskette can store 1.2MB of data. A 3½-inch high-density diskette can store 1.44MB of data. Input/output (I/O) port See Port. Interface A physical or software connection used to transmit data between equipment or programs. ISA Industry Standard Architecture. The 8- or 16-bit bus standard developed for IBM compatible computers.
LIM 4.0 EMS Version 4.0 of the Lotus/Intel/Microsoft Expanded Memory Specification-a protocol that allows certain application programs to use memory that MS-DOS cannot use. Main system board The board built into your computer containing the circuitry the computer requires to operate. Mapping The method used to mark to the geographic location of a resource within the memory address space.
Megahertz(MHz) A unit used to measure oscillation frequency (of a computer’s internal timing clock). A megahertz is one million cycles per second. Memory The area where your computer stores data. Memory contents are stored permanently (in ROM) or temporarily (in RAM). Memorymodule A small circuit board that contains memory chips. You can add memory modules to the main system board inside the computer to expand the computer’s memory. A memory module is commonly called a SIMM (single inline memory module).
Monitor The piece of hardware that contains the screen and displays information. Monochrome monitor A monitor that displays in only one color, such as green or amber, as opposed to a color monitor which can display in several colors. Mouse A hand-held pointing device with one or more buttons. When you slide the mouse over a flat surface in a certain direction, the cursor moves in the same direction on the screen. MS-DOS Microsoft Disk Operating System.
Non-target modeling mode A method you can use to run the System Configuration program to create an SCI file for another computer. This mode prevents you from saving the information in the CMOS of the computer on which you are running the program. Numeric keypad The number and cursor control keys grouped on the right side of the keyboard. Operating speed The speed at which the central processing unit can execute commands.
Parameter A qualifier added to a command that tells MS-DOS what particular conditions to look for and specifies information such as what data to process and where to locate or store a file. Parity A method used to verify the accuracy of data transmissions by adding a bit that makes the total of the byte odd for odd parity or even for even parity. Password The sequence of characters you type after you turn on the computer in order to access and use your system.
Processor board A special, upgradable circuit board connected to the main system board containing the microprocessor, cache memory, and a socket for a math coprocessor. Processor speed See Operating speed. 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 or reset the computer; so you must store all your data on disk.
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. Roof directory The top-level directory in MS-DOS, designated by a \ (backslash). All other directories are subdirectories of the root directory. RS-232-C A widely used, standard type of serial interface. You can connect up to two RS-232-C compatible devices to the built-in ports on your computer.
Serial The type of interface that transmits data one bit at a time. See also Interface and Parallel. Shadow RAM The feature provided by your computer that enables it to copy ROM BIOS information into the RAM area of memory to speed up processing. SIMM See Memory module. Subdirectory A directory or group of files that branches down from another subdirectory or from the root directory. Switch An option added to a 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. UNIX An operating system that supports multitasking and is suited to multi-user environments. UNIX is compatible with a range of computers, from personal computers to mainframes. See also Operating system. VGA Video Graphics Array. A type of high-resolution display adapter. Video card See Display adapter card.
Index A C Accessing components, 4-l-12 Address blocks, 2-14 Advanced configuration, commands, 2-11, 2-19-20 options, 2-17-18 Alternate configuration files, 2-2, 2-19-20 AUTOEXEC.
Configuration (continued), modes, 2-2, 2-21 mouse, 2-4-5 network server mode, 2-13 non-cache area(s), 2-11, 2-14 num lock mode, initial, 2-13 numeric coprocessor, 2-12 options, 2-1, 2-10-14, 2-17-18 parallel port(s), 2-13 password, 2-13 printing, 2-9 process, 2-3-5 processor, simulation speed, 2-12 processor, type, 2-12 RAM, EISA, Intro-l, D-l saving, 2-6, 2-9, 2-19 serial ports, 2-13 settings, 2-10-17 SIMM, 2-11, 5-11-13 steps, 2-9 Configuration program, see System Configuration program Configuring your sy
Drive, bays, 6-2-3 see Diskette drive Or Hard disk drive Driver, mouse, 2-4-5 Drives, installing and removing, 6-l-20 E EGA (Enhanced Graphics Adapter), 2-12, 2-14 EISA (Extended Industry Standard Architecture), Intro-l-3, 2-5-7 bus, Intro-2 configuration RAM, Intro-l, D-l expansion slots, see Option slots option cards, see Option card(s) Electrical outlet(s), l-6, D-6 Enhanced graphics adapter (EGA), 2-12, 2-14 Environmental, conditions, l-2, D-5 requirements, D-5 Error messages, power-on diagnostic, C-2-
Hard disk drive (continued), removing, 6-1-16 setting types, 2-15-17 skewed sector, B-5-6 slave drive, 6-4-5 socket, 5-2 specifications, D-2 tracks, B-3-12 types, 2-15-17 utilities, 2-1, 3-8-9, B-1-13 HDDPARK, 3-8-9 Height, of computer, D-5 Help, where to get, Intro-5, High-resolution VGA graphics, 2-22-23 I Icons, l-5 IDE hard disk drives, interface, Intro-l, 6-1, 6-11, 6-18 jumpers, 6-3-5 Initial num lock mode, 2-13 Installation, optional equipment, l-4, 5-1-15 overview, l-3 Interfaces, Intro-l-2, 1-5, D-
Math coprocessor, configuring, 2-12 diagnostic test, A-l, A-7, C-17 installing, l-3, 5-7, 5-9-10 problems, C-18 removing, 5-10 socket, 5-3, 5-9-10, D-3 specification, 5-9, D-3 Memory, address blocks, 2-14, D-7 banks, 5-11-13 base, 2-11, D-7 cache, see Cache memory CMOS, see CMOS configuration, 2-11, 5-13 configuration RAM, Intro-l, D-l diagnostic test, A-l, A-7 extended, 2-11, 5-11-15, D-7 map, D-7 modules, see SIMMs non-cache areas, 2-14 problems, C-17 remap control, 2-11 shadow RAM, Intro-2, D-l, D-7 SIMM
P Parallel, icon, l-5 interface, Intro-l, D-l port(s), configuring, 2-13 port diagnostic tests, A-l, A-7 Password, changing, 3-3 deleting, 3-3 disabling, C-8-10 jumper, C-8-10 network server mode, 2-13, 3-3-5 problems, C-9-11 setting, Intro-2, 2-13 using, 3-2-5 Peripheral devices, l-3, l-5-6, 4-3 Physical characteristics, D-5 Ports, see Interfaces Post-installation setup, 4-12, 5-l Power, button(s), l-5 cord(s), l-6-7, D-6 limits, option slot, 5-4, C-7, D-4 maximum outputs, D-4 problems, C-5-8 source requir
S Safety instructions, iii, l-l-2, l-6-7, 4-1-2 SCI files, 2-1, 2-18-20 SCSI, subsystem, Intro-3 SD command, 2-21-22 Serial, icons, l-6 interfaces, Intro-l, D-l port connectors, 5-2 ports, configuring, 2-13 port diagnostic tests, A-l, A-7 Service, where to get, Intro-5 Setting up your system, l-l-11 Setup, post-installation, 4-12, 5-l Shadow RAM, Intro-2, D-l, D-7 SIMMs, installing, 5-13-15 problems, C-17 removing, 5-15 sockets, 5-2, 5-11-12 specifications, 5-11-13, D-7 types, 5-11-12, D-l Simulation speeds
T V Tape drive, Intro-3, 6-9, D-2 Technical specifications, see Specifications Temperature, l-2, C-6-7, D-5 Terminate-and-stay resident (TSR) programs, A-2 Time, format, l-11 setting, 2-8 Timer check, C-2 Tone codes, error, C-34 Tracks, hard disk, B-3-12 Transfers, data, Intro-2 Troubleshooting, C-1-18 TURBO speed light, 3-5 Turning off computer, l-6, 4-1-2 Turning on computer, l-2, 1-6-7, 4-l-2 Ventilation, l-2, C-7 Verification mode, 2-18 VGA, 2-12, 2-14, 2-23 VGA card, see Video cards Video adapter ca
EPSON’ EISA
Epson Overseas Marketing Locations Epson Deutschland GmbH Zülpicher Straße 6, 4000 Düsseldorf 11 Germany Phone: 211-56030 Telex: 41-8584786 Epson France S.A. BP. 320, 68 Bis Rue Marjolin 92305 Levallois-Perret Cedex France Phone: 33-l-4737-3333 Telex: 42-610657 Epson (U.K.) Ltd. Business Management Dept. (PC) Campus 100, Maylands Avenue Hemel Hempstead, Hertfordshire, HP2 7EZ, UK Phone: 0442 61144 Free phone: linkline 0800 289622 Fax: 0422 227227 Telex: 51-824767 Epson ltalia s.p.a. V.le F.