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PLACE STAMP HERE EPSON America, Inc. 2780 Lomita Blvd. Torrance, CA 90505 MS 4-1 Fold Here - - _ - - _ - _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ Tape Here. Do Not Staple .
EPSON® EQUITY™IIe User’s Guide Y18699100101
IMPORTANTNOTICE 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. COPYRIGHTNOTICE 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 2 4 How to Use This Manual . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Where to Get Help . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Chapter 1 Setting Up Your System 1 Unpacking . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-1 Removing the Diskette Drive Protector Card . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-3 2 Choosing a Location. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-4 3 Connecting a Monitor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Setting the Display Adapter Card Type . . . . . . . . . Setting the Power-on Password. . . . . . . . . . Setting the Auto Speed Function. . . . . . . . Changing the Math Coprocessor Setting . . Setting the Real-time Clock. . . . . . . . . . . . Setting the Hard Disk Drive Configuration . . . . . . . . . . Setting the Diskette Drive Type(s) . . . . . . Setting the Serial and Parallel Interfaces . . Reviewing Your Settings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Leaving the Setup Menu. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. .
Chapter 4 -- Using MS-DOS with Your Equity IIe Starting and Exiting MS-DOS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Using Drive Designators . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . The Current Drive . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Types of MS-DOS Commands . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Entering an MS-DOS Command . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Setting the Date and Time . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Using an AUTOEXEC.BAT File . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Creating an AUTOEXEC.BAT File . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Using Memory Beyond 640KB . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Using EEMM286.SYS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Chapter 5 Installing Options Adding Memory Modules . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Installing Option Cards. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Removing the Cover . . . . . . .
Appendix B Power-on Diagnostics System Device Check . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Timer and CMOS RAM Check. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . RAM Check . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Keyboard Controller and Keyboard Check . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Display Adapter Card Check . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Optional RAM Check . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Color Graphics Adapter and CRT Check . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Color Graphics Adapter Check . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Attribute Check . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Character Set Check . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40-column Character Set Check . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 320x200 Graphics Mode Check. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 640x200 Graphics Mode Check. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Appendix D Physically Formatting a Hard Disk Choosing the Type of Format . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Reformatting a Used Disk . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Formatting a New Disk. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Selecting an Option . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Starting the Formatting Process . . . . . . . . . . . Option1,Format.............................................................. Modifying the Defective Track Table . . . . . . Formatting the Disk . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Introduction The Epson® Equity™ IIe is a versatile, high-performance, personal computer which supports multiple users and multitasking operations. In addition, you can easily upgrade your system by adding memory and installing options. The Equity IIe is available in these configurations: Li A single diskette drive system with either a 1.2MB (megabyte), 5 ‘/4-inch diskette drive or a 1.44MB, 3 l/l-inch diskette drive LI A hard disk drive system with one 40MB or 100MB hard disk and either a 1.2MB or a 1.
Your Equity IIe comes with version 4.01 of MS-DOS® the operating system by Microsoft.@ This version of MS-DOS includes a Shell program, which helps you manage your data and lets you run MS-DOS commands by selecting them from on-screen menus. You’ll find a set of MS-DOS manuals packed in the box with the computer. You probably also purchased other software; you can use virtually any application program designed for the IBM PC, PC XT, PC AT, or compatible computers on your Equity IIe.
Chapter 1 provides simple step-by-step instructions for setting up your system. On the back cover foldout are illustrations identifying the different parts of the Equity IIe; you may want to refer to this while setting up your system. Chapter 2 describes how to run the Setup program to define your computer’s configuration. You must do this for a new computer before you use it. You may need to do it again later, if you change the configuration.
Appendix E lists the types of hard disk drives you can use in the Equity IIe. Appendix F gives the technical specifications for the Equity IIe. At the end of the manual, you’ll find a glossary of the computer terms used in this manual and an index. Where to Get Help Customer support and service for Epson products are provided by a network of authorized Epson dealers and Customer Care Centers throughout the United States.
Chapter 1 Setting Up Your System Setting up your Epson Equity IIe personal computer is easy. Just follow the seven steps in this chapter. As you set up your computer, you may want to leave the 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: The computer and power cord The keyboard with attached cable MS-DOS 4.01 diskettes: either six 5 ‘/q-inch diskettes (Install, Operating 1, Operating 2, Operating 3, Shell, and Select) or three 3 ‘/z-inch diskettes (Install, Operating, and Shell) A Reference diskette 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.
Removing the Diskette Drive Protector Card If your computer has a 5 ‘/J-inch diskette drive, there is a protector card in the diskette slot. This card is inserted at the factory to protect the read/write heads in the drive. To remove it, turn the diskette drive latch up until it is horizontal. This causes the card to pop out slightly so you can pull it out of the slot, as shown below. (If you have a second 5 ‘/d-inch diskette drive, be sure to remove the card from that drive as well.
2 Choosing a Location Before you set up your Equity IIe, 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.
3. Connect the appropriate end of the monitor cable to the video card connector on the back 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. retaining screws 4. If there are any switches or jumpers on the video card (for example, to indicate color or monochrome), be sure they are set properly. (See the documentation that came with your monitor or video card for instructions.
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. If the monitor has the proper type of plug, you can plug it into the AC power outlet on the back of the computer.
4 Connecting a Printer or Other Device The Equity IIe 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. Epson offers a full range of printers; check with your dealer for more information. Using the Parallel Interface The Equity IIe parallel interface is Centronics®-compatible and uses a DB-25S connector. Most Epson printers have parallel interfaces.
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. 5. 1-10 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. 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. 6 5 4 3 2 1 @ serial port A i The Equity IIe 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 IIe has an auxiliary port for a mouse that uses a mini DIN (6-pin) connector. To connect a mouse to the built-in 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 CONFIG.SYS file.
5 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 1-14 Connecting the Keyboard Follow these steps to connect the keyboard: 1. Turn the computer around so the front is facing you. 2. Open the cover on the lower left comer of the computer’s front panel by pressing it in slightly and then releasing it.
3. 4. Plug the keyboard cable into the socket, as shown below. Do not force the connector, but be sure to insert it all the way. Close the keyboard cable cover.
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: Never turn the computer on with a protector card in the diskette drive.
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. 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. 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. Follow these steps to turn on your system: 1.
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.
Chapter 2 Running the Setup Program The first time you use your Equity IIe, 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. Insert the Reference diskette into drive A. If you have a 5 ‘/+inch diskette drive, turn the latch down (clockwise) to lock the diskette into place. If you have a 3 ‘/z-inch diskette drive, slide the diskette into the drive until it clicks into place. (For more instructions on inserting and removing diskettes, see Chapter 3.
3. The Setup option is highlighted. To select it, press Enter.
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 !!!!! + Incorrect configuration Set 2. default value ? (Y/N) Be sure Y is highlighted and press Enter. The Setup program deletes the setting that caused the error and substitutes a setting that is more likely to match your system.
Moving the Cursor Block Use J 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. Follow the instructions in the rest of this chapter to use the Setup program to define your computer’s configuration. Setting the Memory Configuration The Equity IIe comes with 1MB of on-board memory. (On-board memory is memory that resides on a computer’s main system board.
Extended memory is the memory above 1MB that is accessed by the protected mode of the 80286 microprocessor. Some application programs and operating systems (like MS OS/2) use extended memory. Expanded memory is usable memory beyond the 640KB conventional memory limit of MS-DOS. With a special memory manager (a type of device driver), some MS-DOS application programs that conform to the Lotus®/Intel®/ Microsoft Expanded Memory Specification (LIM EMS) can use expanded memory.
Changing the On-board Memory Setting 1. Be sure On-board memory type is highlighted. You see a submenu, such as the one below, that shows the current on-board memory configuration setting: 0 Mb Extended 3 8 4 Kb Extended 6 4 0 Kb Conventional The value in MB in the top square of the submenu indicates the amount of memory on any SIMMs installed in the SIMM sockets in your computer. The amount you see may be 0MB, 1MB, 2MB, or 4MB-depending on how much memory (on SIMMs) is installed in your computer. 2.
3. To select another on-board memory configuration, press t or --+ as many times as necessary to move the highlighted box to the configuration you want. Follow these guidelines to select the appropriate on-board memory configuration for your computer: Cl If you want to use SIMMs installed in your computer as expanded memory, select Type 1 or Type 2. U If you want to use both SIMMs and a memory card as extended memory, select Type 3. CI 4. You cannot use both SIMMs and a memory card as expanded memory.
You can press Home to reset the value to 0 or ESC to reset the value to 0 and return to the memory submenu. 3. When you reach the extended memory value you want, press Enter to return to the memory submenu. You see the new extended memory value you entered. Note If you do not want to save your changes, press 1‘ one or more times to return to the main Setup menu. You can press ? to return to the main Setup menu without saving your changes at any Setup submenu except the real-time clock submenu.
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. The cursor block moves into the submenu and you see: 3. Press Enter to move the cursor block into this submenu and then use ? or 1 to highlight the option that matches your display adapter card.
Cl 4. If you have any other combination of monitor and display adapter card, select EGA, MCGA, VGA or other. In addition, consult the documentation supplied with your display adapter card. After you highlight the appropriate display adapter card type, press Enter. The screen displays your new display adapter card setting. 5. Highlight *** SAVE SETTINGS Enter to return to the main Setup menu. ***andpress Setting the Power-on Password Setting a power-on password lets you control who can use your system.
Follow these steps to set a power-on password (when one does not exist) and turn network server mode on or off: 1. At the main Setup menu, highlight Pas sword. This submenu appears: Power-on password Network server mode OFF 2. Press Enter. The cursor block moves to P owe r - on password. 3. Press Enter. You see this prompt: 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.
WARNING Be sure to remember the 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 the computer the next time you turn it on. If you want to return to the password submenu without saving any changes, press ESC. 4. After you enter a password, press Enter to return to the password submenu. 5. Highlight Network server mode To turn network server mode from off to on or vice versa, press Enter.
Setting the Auto Speed Function The Equity IIe can operate at 12 MHz or 8 MHz. You can use the CPU SPEED switch on the computer’s front panel to select either speed. (See “Selecting the Operating Speed” in Chapter 3.) You’ll probably use the faster speed for almost all your operations. Some copy-protected application programs, however, require the computer to run at 8 MHz while accessing the program on diskette.
If this does not work, try loading the program at 8 MHz and then switch to 12 MHz to run it, Do not enable the Auto speed function. Follow these steps to change the Auto speed setting: 1. At the main Setup menu, highlight Auto speed and press Enter. The current status appears: Auto speed disabled ** SAVE SETTING ** If the displayed setting is correct, press ‘!’ to return to the main Setup menu. 2. To change the setting from disabled to enabled or vice versa, press Enter. 3.
2. To change the current setting to Coprocessor installed press Enter. 3. Highlight ***** SAVE SETTINGS *****and press Enter to return to the main Setup menu. If you later remove the math coprocessor, follow the same procedure to change the setting again. Setting the Real-time Clock The real-time clock in your Equity IIe constantly tracks the time and date-even when the computer is turned off.
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 (:).
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. For example, to set the date for December 30, 1989, you would type the following: 12301989 You can use the backspace key to make corrections.
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. If you installed or removed a hard disk, follow these steps to set the computer’s hard disk configuration: 1. At the main Setup menu, highlight Hard disk drive. Your current settings appear: Drive 1: Drive 2: Type None 59 The Type number indicates the type of hard disk installed in your computer.
2. To select Hard disk drive, press Enter. You see a menu such as the following: Drive 1: Type 59 Number of cylinders Number of heads Number of sectors Precomp. cylinder Landing zone Total capacity (MB) Drive 2: None 980 5 17 None 979 40.
If you want to change the drive type 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. 6. Highlight Type and press Enter.
PgUp decreases the drive type number in increments of 10 (for example, from 47 to 37) Home enters drive type 1 (the first available drive type) End enters drive type 63 (the last available drive type) This is a handy way to verify new hard disk settings before you press Enter because the settings list is automatically updated as you display each new type number. After you enter the appropriate drive type number, press Enter. The screen displays the new drive type number and hard disk settings.
If you enter a parameter incorrectly, press T or 1 to highlight the parameter and then enter it again. The Setup program does not allow you to enter the total storage capacity; it calculates the storage capacity for you, based on what you enter for the number of cylinders, heads, and sectors. After you type the landing zone number and press Enter, the cursor block returns to the Drive submenu heading. 8. If you want to change the hard disk settings for drive 2, press + and return to step 4. 9.
Each diskette drive is followed by its specific type (360KB, 720KB, 1.2MB, or 1.44MB). If the diskette drive types on the screen match your diskette drive configuration, you can skip the rest of this section. 2. Press Enter. The cursor moves into the diskette drive submenu and you see the following: installed Not 360 KB drive 720 KB drive (3.5") MB drive 1.2 1.44 MB drive (3.5") 3. If you want to change the drive A settings, be sure Drive A: is highlighted 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 Serial 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. 4. Use L or ? to highlight the appropriate setting for the port you selected and press Enter. The screen displays the new setting. If you want to change the setting for the other port, return to step 3. 5.
The following Setup summary appears on the screen: Memory (On-board) Type Extended (On-board) Expanded (On-board) Conventional (On-board) Total Extended Extended Password (card) (total) Power-on password Network server mode 5 384 Kb 0 Kb 640 Kb 1Mb 0 Kb 384 Kb not installed OFF EGA, MCGA, VGA Display type or other Change settings Exit without saving ** EXIT AND SAVE ** There are two more Setup summary screens you need to check. To display the next screen, press PgDn.
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: Drive 2: Type 59 Number of cylinders Number of heads Number of sectors Precomp. cylinder Landing zone Total capacity (MB) 980 5 None 979 40.7 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 set a password, enter it at the key prompt. The Operation Menu appears. Press 0 and Enter to exit the Operation Menu. If the computer displays an error message while it is starting up, run the Setup program again and check the setting the error message indicates.
Chapter 3 Using the Equity IIe This chapter describes the following procedures for using your Equity IIe computer: Ll Installing MS-DOS CI Using a power-on password Cl Selecting the operating speed CI Using special keys on the keyboard Li Stopping a command or program Ci Resetting the computer Cl Using disks and disk drives tl 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 passward, see “Password Problems” in Appendix A.
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. Deleting a Power-on Password To delete your power-on password, follow these steps: 1. If you do not have a hard disk, insert your Startup diskette in drive A. 2. Turn on or reset the computer. At the key prompt, enter your current power-on password followed by a forward slash.
Selecting the Operating Speed The Equity IIe can operate at two speeds: 8 MHz or 12 MHz. At 12 MHz, the computer accesses memory faster than at 8 MHz. You will probably use this 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 IIe 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 IIe 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.
r Key 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) -rtl+ 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: Ll Hold down the Ctrl key and press C Ci Hold down the Ctrl key and press Break. These methods may also work in your application program.
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. Because each is more powerful than the last, try them in the order listed here: 1. If you are using MS-DOS, hold down Ctrl and Alt and press the Del key. The screen goes blank for a moment and then the computer should reload MS-DOS. If it doesn’t, try the second method. 2.
This section explains how disks work and tells you how to do the following: 0 Use different types of diskettes and diskette drives Cl Care for your diskettes and diskette drives LI Insert and remove diskettes CI Write-protect diskettes 0 Make backup copies of your diskettes D Use a single diskette drive LI Use two diskette drives LI 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.
LI 720KB drive-With this drive, use 3 ‘/z-inch, double-sided, double-density, 135 TPI, 720KB diskettes. These diskettes contain 80 tracks per side, 9 sectors per track, and hold up to 720KB of information, which is approximately 300 pages of text. D 1.44MB drive-With this drive, use 3 i/z-inch, double-sided, high-density, 135 TPI, 1.44MB diskettes. These diskettes contain 80 tracks per side, 18 sectors per track, and hold up to 1.44MB of information, which is approximately 600 pages of text.
5 ‘/&nch drive/diskette compatibility Drive type I 360KB 1.2MB Diskette types it can read from and write to I I 160KB, 180KB, 320KB, 360KB 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 not be able to read it or write to it in a 360KB drive later. 3 ‘/L-inch drive/diskette compatibility Drive type Diskette types it can read from and write to I 720KB 720KB, 1.
Caring for Diskettes and Diskette Drives Follow these basic precautions to protect your diskettes and avoid losing data: cl Do not remove a diskette from the diskette drive or turn off the computer while the drive light is on. This light indicates that the computer is copying data to or from a diskette. If you interrupt this process, you can destroy data. Remove all diskettes before you turn off the computer. Keep diskettes away from dust and dirt.
Cl Carefully label your diskettes and be sure to indicate the diskette type and density. Attach labels firmly but gently, and only along the top of a diskette (next to the manufacturer’s label). Do not stick several labels on top of one another; too many labels can make it difficult to insert and remove the diskette in the drive. Cl It is best to write on a label before you attach it to a diskette.
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. Carefully pull out the diskette, place it in its protective envelope, and store it in a proper location, such as a diskette container.
WARNING Never remove a diskette or, turn off the computer while the diskette drive light is on. You could lose data. Also, be sure to remove ail diskettes before you turn off the computer. 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.
Note Some program diskettes, such as your MS-DOS diskettes and your Reference diskette, have no notch or no switch so they are permanently write-protected. This protects them from being accidentally erased or altered. On a 3 ‘/z-inch diskette, the write-protect device is a small switch on the back of the diskette in the lower right corner, shown below. To write-protect a 3 ‘/z-inch diskette, slide the switch toward the edge of the diskette until it clicks into position, exposing a hole in the corner.
Making Backup Copies It is important to make copies of all your data and system diskettes. Make backup (or working) copies of all diskettes that contain programs, such as the original MS-DOS and Reference diskettes that come with the Equity IIe, 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 IIe) 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 lead MS-DOS from an application program diskette if that diskette contains the MS-DOS system files.
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 IIe has a hard disk drive, follow these precautions to protect it from damage and to avoid losing data: LI 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.
Chapter 4 Using MS-DOS with Your Equity IIe Your Equity IIe 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.
LI Using the Epson MENU program LI Using an AUTOEXEC.BAT file LI Using memory beyond 640KB. Starting and Exiting 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).
Before you turn off the computer, make sure the screen displays the Shell Start Programs Menu or the MS-DOS command prompt. Then remove your diskettes, 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. If you have two diskette drives, the top drive is A and the bottom drive is B.
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.
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, 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: Ci 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 Ll 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: LI 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. Li 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 A: 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 A:STATS.
While you may not need to create directories on a 360KB diskette-especially if it contains only a few large filesdirectories are essential for organizing files on a hard disk. Whenever you format a disk, MS-DOS automatically creates one main directory. This directory is called the root directory. Any directories you later create are logically subordinate to the root directory; that is, they are subdirectories of 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\JEANl204.
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 \ LED G ER You can abbreviate the name of this command to MD.
A directory listing includes the following information about each file in the directory: Li Name and extension Ci Size of the file in bytes Ll 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 APPLICANTS 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 RECEIV NOVRECV DECRECV PAYABL ISALES SALE1989 NOVSALES DECSALES SALE1990 JANSALES FEBSALES MARSALES 4-26 Using MS-DOS with Your Equity IIe
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. 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 for none)? 5. characters, ENTER 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 Diskettes with Two Diskette Drives (No Hard Disk) 1. Insert your Working 1 (5 ‘/+-inch) or Startup (3 ‘/z-inch) diskette in drive A. 2. If necessary, type A : and press Enter to log onto that drive. 3. At the A> prompt, type FORMAT B : and press Enter. You see this message: Insert new diskette for drive B: and press ENTER when ready... 4. 5. Insert the diskette you want to format into drive B and press Enter to start formatting.
After you name the diskette, press Enter. (If you do not want to name the diskette, simply press Enter.) Then you see messages such as the following: 1213952 bytes total disk space 1213952 bytes available on disk 512 bytes in each allocation unit 2371 allocation units available on disk Volume Serial Number is 3915-16EE Format another (Y/N)? 7. To format another diskette, press Y and Enter. To return to the MS-DOS command prompt, press N and Enter.
-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. The volume label can be up to 11 characters long and can consist of any characters or numbers, except for blank spaces and the following symbols: “ \ / I ? [ ] : ; < > . , + = After you name the diskette, press Enter.
tl 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 two diskette drives 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 Working 1 (5 l/4-inch) or Startup (3 ‘/z-inch) diskette into drive A. 3. At the MS-DOS command prompt, type the following and press Enter: DISKCOPY A: B: MS-DOS prompts you to insert your diskettes: Insert SOURCE diskette in drive A: Insert TARGET diskette in drive B: Press any key to continue . . . 4.
2. If you don’t have a hard disk, insert your Working 1 (5 ‘/.+-inch) or Startup (3 ‘/z-inch) 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. At the MS-DOS command prompt, type the following and press Enter: DISKCOPY A: A: MS-DOS displays these messages: Insert SOURCE diskette in drive A: Press any key to continue . . . 5.
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. When the copy is complete, you see this message: Copy another diskette (Y/N)? 9. Press Y and Enter to copy another diskette or N and Enter to return to the MS-DOS command prompt. Using the BACKUP Command Use the BACKUP command to back up the data on your hard disk.
Make sure you have enough diskettes to back up the data on your hard disk drive. For example, it takes about 27 1.2MB diskettes to copy a 32MB 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.
To use the HELP menu, follow these steps: 1. If you don’t have a hard disk, make sure your Working 3 (5 l/4-inch) or Working (3 ‘/l-inch) diskette is in drive A. 2. If necessary, type A : and press Enter to log onto drive A. 3. At the MS-DOS command prompt, type HELP and press Enter. 4. The screen displays a menu of MS-DOS commands. Use the cursor keys to highlight the command you want information about and press Enter. 5.
You can also request help information for more than one command. Follow these steps: 1. At the MS-DOS command prompt, type HELP and the names of the commands you want information about. Separate each command name with a space. Then press Enter. For example, to see help information about the DISKCOPY, FORMAT, and COPY commands, type the following and press Enter: HELP DISKCOPY FORMAT COPY 2. The help information for the first command displays first.
2. At the MS-DOS command prompt, type MENU and press Enter. You see this main menu: EXIT File Utilities Disk Utilities Mode Settings Help Enter DOS Command 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. Because MENU works by calling external commands, you may see an error message similar to this when you select an option: 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.
Creating an AUTOEXEC.BAT File Here is an example of an AUTOEXEC.BAT file: PATH C:\;C:\DOS;C:\WP PROMPT $P$G The first line tells MS-DOS to look for programs or batch files in the root directory, the DOS directory, and your word processing directory. This way you can run programs in those directories without having to specify pathnames in the commands. The second line changes the MS-DOS command prompt so that it displays your current directory. To create 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 Startup diskette, insert the Startup diskette into drive A and log onto that drive. 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.) 2.
Using Memory Beyond 640KB The Equity IIe 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.
You can add one or more of the optional switches explained in the next section to this command line. Then save the file as an ASCII text file and reset the computer. If you do not have a word processing program capable of saving an ASCII text file, you can modify CONFIG.SYS using the MS-DOS COPY or EDLIN command. To modify CONFIG.SYS using the COPY command, follow these steps: 1. Log onto the root directory of the hard disk or diskette from which you boot MS-DOS. 2. Type COPY CONFIG.
The full syntax for the command line that activates EEMM286.SYS is: DEVICE=[d:][path]EEMM286.SYS [size] [/K] [/Pn] [/F] [/T] [/W] The items in brackets are optional. (You do not type any brackets when you enter this command.) The following table summarizes the EEMM286.SYS options you can use with the Equity IIe. In the table, an X indicates you can use the option in that row under the condition described in that column. EEMM286.SYS options ri3ption Description d:par/~ Specifies the pathname.
The following paragraphs describe the options in the table. The d:path parameter specifies the pathname. You specify the pathname if the file EEMM286.SYS is not in the root directory of the hard disk or diskette from which you load MS-DOS. For example, if EEMM286.SYS is in a directory called \DOS on drive C, include the pathname, like this: DEVICE=C:\DOS\EEMM286.SYS The size parameter allows you to specify in pages the amount of extended memory to be used as expanded memory. (One page equals 16KB.
The /Pn switch specifies input/output ports the Equity IIe uses. Use this switch only if you experience a conflict with an option card installed in your computer. On the Equity IIe, the input/ output ports EEMM286.SYS uses are 2n8, 12n8, 42n8, 52n8, 82n8, 92n8, C2n8, D2n8. The n represents a hexadecimal value between 0 and f. The default value of n is 0. For example, D E V I C E = E E M M 2 8 6 . S Y S /Pa specifies the following ports: 2a8,12a8,42a8,52a8,82a8,92a8, C2a8, D2a8.
For more information on using EEMM286.SYS, see your MS-DOS Reference Manual.
Chapter 5 Installing Options You can enhance the performance of your Equity IIe by adding a variety of options, including the following: Cl An 80287 math coprocessor Ll Memory modules Cl A memory card 0 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 IIe system comes with 1MB of on-board memory. You can add SIMMs (single inline memory modules) to increase the amount of on-board memory in the computer. With added SIMMs, the total amount of on-board memory in your computer must be one of the following: 2MB, 3MB, or 5MB. There are four SIMM sockets inside the Equity IIe. Each socket can contain one 256KB or one 1MB SIMM. The following table shows the possible SIMM configurations for the Equity IIe.
Installing Option Cards The Equity IIe 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 IIe. 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. 5.
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 IIe. (The video card occupies one standard slot and the SP card occupies a special additional slot, number 6.
Slot 1 is designed for an 8-bit option card, and slots 2 through 5 are designed for 16-bit cards. As you can see below, a 16-bit card has a second connector. 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. A jumper’s setting is determined by where the jumper is placed: either between pin A and the middle pin (position A) or between pin B and the middle pin (position B), as shown below. position A position B The jumpers you may need to change are on the hard disk drive interface card (the HI card) and the main system board. The following tables list the jumper settings and their functions.
Main system board jumper settings Function Jumper number Jumper setting 1 A* Enables the power-on password 1 B Disables the power-on password 2 A* Sets the P-ROM type to 256KB 2 B Sets the P-ROM type to 128KB 3 A* Sets up the built-in mouse connector for use with a mouse which uses the IRQ 12 signal 3 B Disables the built-in mouse connector so you can use a mouse or other pointing device connected to a port on an option card in your computer; the device must use the IRQ 12 signal * Factor
D Replace any option cards you removed. See “Replacing the option cards” below. D Follow the instructions in “Replacing the Cover” later in this chapter to replace the computer’s cover. Changing the HI card jumper settings The illustration below shows the location of the HI card, in the computer.
The following illustration shows the location of jumpers J4 and J5 on the HI card. Check the table above to see which one(s) you need to change. - - 1 1 /il I 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.
Removing option cards to clear the main system board To easily reach the jumpers on the main system board, you may want to remove an option card. For example, the SP card may block your access to jumper number 1. To remove the SP card, follow these steps: 1. Remove the retaining screw that secures the SP card at the back panel of the computer. Be careful not to drop the screw.
2. Remove the card from the slot by pulling it straight up, as shown below. Then set it on a soft surface with the components facing up. If there is an option card in slot 5, you may want to remove it to access jumper number 2. Remove the screw securing the card to the back of the computer and pull the card straight up and out of the slot. Set the card on a soft surface with the component side facing up.
Changing the main system board jumper settings The illustration below shows the locations of jumpers J1, J2, and J3 on the main system board. Check the table above to see which one(s) you need to change. 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.
To replace the SP card, reinstall it in slot 6, as shown below. 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. Remove the screw securing the card to the back of the computer and pull the card straight up and out of the slot. Then carefully wrap the card, preferably with the original packing materials, and place it inside its box for safe storage.
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: cl Use the Equity IIe’s Setup program to set the amount of extended memory on your installed memory card. See “Setting the Memory Configuration” in Chapter 2.
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 an option card, you need to run the Setup program on your Reference diskette to update the computer’s configuration information. For some option cards that you can install, you will not need to change any configuration information in the Setup program. However, it is important to run the Setup program after you install or remove any option card to check if you need to change any configuration information.
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.
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. If you are running an application program, see “Software Problems,” later in this appendix.
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 ( 9rn ). 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.
Follow the instructions in “Changing Jumper Settings” in Chapter 5 to enable the password function by setting jumper J1 to position A. Insert your Reference diskette in drive A and turn on the computer. When the screen displays the Operation Menu, highlight Setup and press Enter. Follow the instructions in “Setting the Power-on Password” in Chapter 2 to enter a new power-on password. Note If you know the power-cm password but you want to change or delete it, see Chapter 3 for instructions.
Monitor Problems If the monitor is causing problems, check the following: A-6 1. If there is no display on the screen, check that the monitor’s power switch is on and that the power light on the monitor is lit. If the power light is on but you still do not see anything on the screen, check the monitor’s brightness and contrast controls. 2. If the power switch is on but the power light is not, turn off the monitor’s power, wait five seconds, and turn the power back on.
Note If your application program requires a monitor that supports graphics but you have a monochrome monitor, the results will be unpredictable. 7. If you are still having difficulty with your monitor, try running either the Monochrome Display Adapter and CRT Check or the Color Graphics Display Adapter and CRT Check, as described in Appendix C. If the diagnostics program indicates an error, contact the place where you bought the monitor.
3. Have you inserted the right type of diskette? The diskette type normally appears on the manufacturer’s label. Here are the guidelines: Ci In a drive that has a storage capacity of 1.2MB, use 5 ‘/J-inch, double-sided, high-density, 96 TPI diskettes. You can also use 360KB diskettes in this drive, but if you write to a 360KB diskette in this drive, you may have trouble using the diskette in a 360KB drive later.
5. If MS-DOS displays errors when you try to access data, your diskette may be defective. MS-DOS error messages that may indicate a defective diskette include: Cl Disk Drive Error: Abort, Ignore, Retry? Ci Disk error reading drive d: Ci Disk error writing drive d: If you see one of these messages, make sure the diskette is properly inserted in the diskette drive. For a 5 ‘/d-inch diskette, make sure the diskette drive latch is closed. Try the operation again.
6. If you see no error messages but there is something wrong with the data in a file, MS-DOS or an application program may have updated the storage information on the diskette incorrectly. This is probably the case if you have one of these problems: Cl Part of a file is missing Cl A file includes parts of other files L! An expected output file is missing. To make the necessary repairs, use the MS-DOS program CHKDSK. See your MS-DOS Reference Manual for instructions.
3. If you are still having problems with your diskette drive, try running the Diskette Drives and Controller Check described in Appendix C. If the diagnostics program indicates an error, consult your Epson dealer. 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.
3. If the hard disk still does not work, the root directory of your hard disk may be missing some hidden system files. (Hidden files are not displayed when you list files using the DIR command.) 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.
5. If your hard disk is producing a lot of read/write errors or you are having other serious problems with it, try running the Hard Disk Drive and Controller diagnostics check, described in Appendix C. If the diagnostics program indicates an error, contact your Epson dealer. Never open the sealed unit that encloses the hard disk. 6. 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.
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.
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 diskette drives. When you turn on the power, the computer performs the tests described in this appendix. If it finds an error, it displays a specific error number and error message on the screen.
If the computer finds a fault in the main system board, it stops and displays an error message such as this: 10n-System board error where n is a number from 1 to 8 that represents the specific LSI circuit causing the error. If an I/OROM checksum error occurs, you see this message: nnnn0 ROM error where nnnn is the number of the segment of the bad I/O ROM on an option card. Timer and CMOS RAM Check After the computer successfully completes the system device check, it checks the timer and CMOS RAM.
You must correct the information stored in the CMOS RAM. To do this, run the Setup program on your Reference diskette. See Chapter 2 for instructions. RAM Check The computer next begins to check the RAM installed on the main system board and any option cards. During the check, you see this message: nnnnnn KB 0K where nnnnnn indicates the amount of memory in which no malfunction is found. This value increases continuously by 64KB up to the amount of RAM installed on the main system board, which is 640KB.
Keyboard Controller and Keyboard Check Next, the computer checks the keyboard controller and keyboard for problems, such as failure of one of the keys to release. If there are any errors in the connection between the keyboard and the computer, you see this error message: 301-Keyboard error When a number precedes this message, the number represents the key (in hexadecimal) that is causing the error.
Diskette Drive Seek Check The computer checks its diskette drives by searching the read/ write heads for any malfunction. If it finds any seek errors, you see this message: 601-Diskette error If this error occurs, check that you have inserted the Startup diskette in drive A (if you are loading MS-DOS from a diskette). If this number still appears after you insert the diskette, run the System diagnostics program on your Reference diskette and select option 6 from the Device List.
Appendix C Performing System Diagnostics This appendix describes how to check the operation of the main unit and peripheral devices of your Equity IIe. 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. Note If your system uses an EGA or VGA card with a color monitor, your device list should include item 5, Color graphics adapter and CRT. If your system uses an EGA or VGA card with a monochrome display, your device list should include item 4, Monochrome display adapter and CRT.
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: 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 DEVICE LIST 4 7 12 21 81 - Monochrome display adapter and CRT Math coprocessor Alternate serial port Alternate parallel port Parallel port (on video adapter) 0 - Exit to DEVICE LIST 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: 1 - Add device 2 - Delete device 0 - Finish modification 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.
Before you request a printout, be sure your printer is ready and contains paper. Then select Y. If the printer is not ready, the following message and prompt appear: Printer is not installed correctly. Install correctly before entering. Continue ? (Y/N) Correct the problem and select Y to continue printing, or select N to cancel printing. After printing the error message, the program displays this prompt: Printout is finished. Press ENTER to return to the menu.
System Board Check Use this option to check the operation of each major component on the system board, including: Cl The 80286 CPU chip tl The system ROM 0 The real-time clock, CMOS RAM, and battery tl The main integrated circuits. The checks made on the 80286 CPU chip are extremely comprehensive and ensure that the CPU instruction set, including protected-mode operation, is functioning correctly.
For this check, the program writes specific data into memory and then reads it back in blocks of 64KB. It also makes a parity check on each block. A memory count is displayed after each block is tested without error. After the program checks the last block, you see a message such as the following: 000640 KB 0K If an error occurs, make a copy or a printout of the error code and message, and contact your Epson dealer or service center.
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. If an asterisk does not appear at the correct location, there is a problem with your keyboard. Test each key. You see these messages on the screen: Press ESC followed by ENTER to exit. Press END followed by ENTER if screen and keyboard do not match.
You can select the individual checks from this menu: MONOCHROME DISPLAY ADAPTER AND CRT CHECK MENU 1 - Monochrome adapter check 2 - Attribute check 3 - Character set check 4 - Video check 5 - Sync check 6 - Run all above checks 0-Exit If an error occurs during any of these tests, record the error code and message, or print them out. Then contact your Epson dealer or service center. Monochrome Adapter Check To check the monochrome adapter, select 1.
Select Y if the display is correct. If the display attributes are not correct, adjust the brightness and contrast on your monitor. If they are still incorrect, select N. Character Set Check To check your character set, select 3. The character fonts that are included in the internal character generator appear on your screen.
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. You can use this test to adjust the size of the screen display. The vertical and horizontal adjustments are located on your monitor. Sync Check This test is provided for service purposes only.
You can select the individual checks from this menu: COLOR GRAPHICS ADAPTER AND CRT CHECK MENU 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 - Color graphics adapter check Attribute check Character set check 40-column character set check 320X200 graphics mode check 640X200 graphics mode check Screen paging check Light pen check Color video check Sync check Run all above checks 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 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: Once you examine this screen, press any key to display the next page. The eight pages are displayed sequentially.
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 - Black 2 - Blue 3 - Green 4 - Cyan 5--Red 6 - Magenta 7 - Brown 8 - 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 1.2MB diskette, the first message you see is: Current track is 79 The track number counts down (from 39 or 79) to 0. 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 (1), 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 1.2MB, 720KB, or 1.44MB 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.
If the coprocessor is installed, the program runs a series of checks on the precision with which the coprocessor performs calculations and handles exceptions. 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.
This test is similar to the Parallel Port Check. For more details, see the description of the Parallel Port (Printer Interface) Check. 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.
Insert the loop-back connector. Then select Y to start the 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 diagnostics checks.
Error codes and messages 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 601 DISKETTE DRIVE CONTROLLER ERROR 602 SEQUENTIAL SEEK ERROR 603 RANDOM SEEK ERROR 604 WRITE ERROR 605 READ ERROR 606 DISK CHANGE CHECK REMOVE ERROR 607 DISK CHANGE CHECK INSERT ERRO
Error codes ad messages 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 READ ERROR 1703 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 IIe came with a hard disk, that disk has 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 option 1, Format, 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 IIe, 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: Cylinder Head Cylinder Head Cylinder Head Cylinder Head Cylinder Head Defective Track Table: Modify defective track table ? (Y/N) 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 IIe. 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.
E-2 Hard Disk Drive Types
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. Micropolls 1325, Ataal 3085, Lanstor Lan64. Maxlor XT1085, Newbury NDR1085 5 Micropolls 1323A, Miniscribe 3035, Microscrence HH1050. Seagate ST4053 6. The landing zone value is 964 Types 1 through 47 are allocated at 0FE401h. IBM new AT-compatible area. Types 48 through 58 are allocated at 0FD2F1 h to 0FDFF0h.
E-4 Hard Disk Drive Types
Appendix F Specifications CPU and Memory 16-bit CPU 80286 microprocessor, 8 or 12 MHz clockrate, switch-selectable Real and protected modes 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, 3MB, or 5MB (maximum) ROM 64KB Math coprocessor 80287 (8 MHz) support; coprocessor is optional Controllers Diskette Supports up to two drives in any of four formats: double-density, 360KB; highdensity, 1.
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 5 l/4-inch diskette drive, 1.2MB (highdensity) storage capacity Optional 5 l/4-inch diskette drive, 360KB (doubledensity) storage capacity Optional 3 ‘/l-inch diskette drive, 1.
Humidity Operating range: 20% to 80%, non-condensing Storage range: 5% to 95%, non-condensing 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 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. 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.
Auto speed The Equity IIe feature that enables it to automatically switch from 12 MHz to 8 MHz 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. Batch file A type of file that lets you execute a series of MS-DOS commands by typing one command. Batch files are text files with the filename extension .BAT. In a batch file, each command is entered on a separate line.
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. Character Anything that can be printed in a single space on the page or the screen; includes numbers, letters, punctuation marks, and graphic symbols. CMOS Complementary Metal-Oxide Semiconductor.
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. For example, a typical system configuration consists of a computer with one diskette drive and one hard disk drive and a monitor, connected to a printer.
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. Current directory The directory where MS-DOS executes your next command, unless you tell it to do otherwise (by including a pathname with the command). Also known as the default or working directory.
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.
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. A directory can contain both files and subdirectories. Disk The collective term for diskettes and hard disks.
Double-density A type of diskette format that allows you to store twice as much data as the standard-density format. A 5 ‘/q-inch double-density diskette can store 360KB of data. A 3 ‘/z-inch double-density diskette can store 720KB of data. Drive designator The letter name of a disk drive, followed by a colon-for example, C : . EGA Enhanced Graphics Adapter. A type of display adapter card that allows you to display high-resolution graphics on a color monitor.
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. MS-DOS must be able to find the program file to execute the command. See also Internal command. File A group of related pieces of information called records, or entries, stored together on a disk.
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. Hardware Any physical component of a computer system, such as a monitor, printer, keyboard, or CPU. Hexadecimal A base-16 numbering system frequently used by programmers.
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 or the main system board to activate a particular function. Key disk A diskette containing a copy-protected program that must remain in the diskette drive while you are using the program.
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. Megabyte (MB) A unit used to measure storage space in a computer’s memory or on a disk. One megabyte equals 1024KB. Megahertz (MHz) A unit used to measure oscillation frequency (of a computer’s internal timing clock). A megahertz is one million cycles per second.
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. Monitor The piece of hardware that contains the screen and displays information.
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.
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. In pathnames, the parent directory is represented by the symbol . . (two periods).
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. A power-on password can be up to seven characters long and can include letters, numbers, and blank spaces.
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. Read/write head The physical device inside a disk drive that reads and records data on the magnetic surface of a disk. Real-time clock A battery-powered clock inside the computer that keeps track of the time and date, even when the computer is turned off. Relative pathname A pathname that does not begin with the backslash character.
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. Sector A contiguous section of a disk track that provides an address at which the computer can access data. Self test The initial diagnostics procedures a system performs to check its hardware.
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. Switches are usually preceded by a / (forward slash).
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 40 tracks on each side of a doublesided 360KB diskette and 80 tracks on each side of a doublesided 720KB 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 -29 Alternate serial port check, C-31 APPEND, 4-22 Auto speed function, 2-14 -15,3-5 AUTOEXEC.BAT, 4-5, 4-10, 4-42-44 B Backing up data, 3-20 -22, 3-24, 4-32-37 with BACKUP, 3-24, 4-36-37 with DISKCOPY, 3-20, 3-24, 4-36-37 BACKUP, 3-24, 4-36-37 Batch files, 4-10 AUTOEXEC.
CPU, F-l CPU speed, 2-14 -15, 3-5 CPU SPEED switch, 2-14 -15, 3-5 CTRL ALT DEL, 3-9 CTRL BREAK, 3-8 CTRL C, 3-8 Current directory, 4-19, 4-43 changing, 4-19 Current drive, 4-4 -5, 4-43 changing, 4-4 -5 D DATE, 2-16, 4-8 Date, setting, 2-16 -18, 4-8 Default directory, see Current directory Default drive, see Current drive DEL, 4-15 Deleting files, 4-15 Delimiters, 4-7 Destructive surface analysis, D-2 -3, D-10 -12 Diagnostics, power-on, B-1 -6 system, C-1 -39 DIR, 4-23 -25 Directories, 4-16-27 changing, 4-1
Dot-matrix printer check, C-31 -32 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 EEMM286.
I Interfaces, list of, F-2 settingserial and parallel, 2-25 -26 Internal command, 4-5 J Jumper settings, changing, 5-12 -20 K Keyboard, adjustingangle, 1-16 cable, 1-15 check, C-10 -11 connecting, 1-14 -16 controller and keyboard check, B-4 layout, 3-6-7, F-3 problems, A-5 special keys, 3-6-7 L LIM EMS 4.
loading, 4-2-3 pathnames, 4-20-22 printing files, 4-16 renaming files, 4-14 Shell, 3-20, 3-23, 4-13, 4-18, 4-28, 4-33, 4-37 starting, 4-2 MS OS/2, Intro-2, 2-6 N Networkserver mode, 2-11 -13 Non-destructive surface analysis, D-2 -3, D-12 -13 On-board memory, 2-5 -8 Operating speed, 2-14 -15, 3-5 Operation Menu, 2-2 Optional RAM check, B-4 Option cards, 5-1, 5-3 -24 configuring, 5-24 installing, 5-3-12 memory, 5-1, 5-22 -23 problems, A-16 removing, 5-20 serial/parallel, see SP card testing, 5-24 video, see
R RAM check, B-3 Random access memory (RAM), 2-5 -9, 4-45, B-1 Read only memory (ROM), B-1, C-9, F-l Read/write heads, 3-12 Real-timeclock, 2-16-18, F-2 Redirecting printer output, 1-11 Relative pathname, 4-20-22 RENAME, 4-14 RMDIR (RD), 4-27 RESET button, 3-9 Resetting the computer, 3-8-9 ROM, see Read Only Memory Root directory, 4-17 -19 S Sector, 3-11 SELECT, D-2 Serial, see also SP card cable, 1-11 interface, 1-11 port (RS-232C port) check, C-29 - 31 setting, 2-25-26 SETMODE, 1-11 Setting up, 1-1-18 Se
U Unpacking the system, 1-1 -3 V Video cards, CGA, 1-5 color graphics adapter and CRT check, C- 14-23 compatibility, 1-5 EGA, 1-5, 2-10 -11 Hercules graphics card, 1-5, 2-10 installing, 5-7 -12, 5-21 -22, 5-24 MGA, 1-5, 2-10 monochrome display adapter and CRT check, C-11 -14 parallel port (on video adapter) check, C-29 setting display adapter card type, 2-9 -11 VGA, 1-5, 2-10 -11 Video graphics array (VGA) card, see Video cards Video monitors, see Monitor Volume label, 4-29-32 W Wildcard characters, 4-11
diskette drive light power light hard disk light power button diskette drive / I \ I I I I key board cable socket I \ I CPU SPEED switch \ RESET button hard disk or diskette drive slot power outlet parallel port mouse port
