OWNER'S HANDBOOK XEN Pentium 60/66 apricot MITSUBISHI ELECTRIC
OWNER'S HANDBOOK Chapter
Microsoft, MS, and MS-DOS are registered trademarks, and Windows is a trademark, of Microsoft Corporation. IBM is a registered trademark, and VGA and PS/2 are trademarks, of International Business Machines Corporation. Intel is a registered trademark, and Pentium and OverDrive are trademarks, of Intel Corporation. Information contained in this document is subject to change without notice and does not represent a commitment on the part of Apricot Computers Limited.
Safety and Regulatory Notices Safety and Regulatory Notices The Apricot XEN uses a safety ground and must be earthed. The system unit AC power cord is its “disconnect device”. Ensure that the system unit is positioned close to the AC power outlet, and that the plug is easily accessible. It is imperative that the Apricot XEN is set to the correct voltage range before use. If not, the machine may be irreparably damaged.
Safety and Regulatory Notices Safety Power cord requirements The power cord packed with the Apricot XEN complies with the safety standards applicable in the country in which it is sold. Use only this power cord; do not substitute a power cord from any other equipment. If you wish to use the computer in another country, you must ensure that you use a power cord and plug which complies with the safety standards of that country.
Safety and Regulatory Notices UK plug wiring instructions The wire which is coloured blue must be connected to the terminal which is marked with the letter N or coloured black. The wire which is coloured brown must be connected to the terminal which is marked with the letter L or coloured red. This appliance is supplied with a mains lead that has a non-removable moulded plug.
Safety and Regulatory Notices Safety Refer to the labels on the rear of your computer to establish which of the following warnings apply. FCC Class A Warning - this equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class A computing device, pursuant to Subpart J of Part 15 of FCC rules. Only peripherals (computer input/output devices, terminals, printer, etc.) certified to comply with the Class A limits may be attached to this computer.
CONTENTS Chapter
Contents CONTENTS 1 Introducing the Apricot XEN 2 Getting Started with the Apricot XEN 3 Operating the Apricot XEN Using the front panel controls 3/2 Using the 3.5" diskette drive 3/3 Using the 5.
Contents 5 Upgrading the Apricot XEN Contents Expansion cards 5/2 Memory upgrades 5/6 Processor upgrades 5/9 Installing additional video RAM 5/12 5.25" drives 5/13 3.
Contents 7 Troubleshooting Problems when starting 7/2 Troubleshooting charts 7/4 A Inside the Apricot XEN Anti-static precautions A/2 Removing the top cover A/3 Configuring expansion cards A/4 Motherboard jumper settings A/14 B Technical Information Specifications B/2 Physical characteristics B/6 Electrical characteristics B/7 Port characteristics B/8 XEN OWNER'S HANDBOOK III Contents Advanced CMOS SETUP continued IDE LBA translation 6/7 Enhanced ISA Timing 6/8 ISA IRQ 9 6/8 ISA IRQ 10 6/8 ISA IRQ
INTRODUCING THE APRICOT XEN Chapter 1 Chapter
Introducing the Apricot XEN 1 INTRODUCING THE APRICOT XEN The Apricot XEN Pentium 60/66, is ideally suited for use as high performance, general-purpose personal computers, networked business workstations and workgroup servers. Read the separate Power Connection Guide before using the Apricot XEN for the first time.
Introducing the Apricot XEN Standard features The standard features of the Apricot XEN Pentium 60/66 range include: • Intel Pentium system processor with OverDrive upgrade capability. • Two full-length, one half length 16-bit Industry Standard Architecture (ISA) expansion card slots, and one full length PCI slot. • Standard 8 Mbytes of motherboard random access memory (RAM) upgradable to 128 Mbytes by the use of single in-line memory modules (SIMMs).
Introducing the Apricot XEN Unpacking On unpacking the computer, you should find: • Apricot XEN system unit. • Apricot/Mitsubishi monitor and accompanying User’s Guide. • Apricot extended keyboard and two-button mouse. • System unit AC power cord appropriate for the country of sale. • System documentation. • Microsoft MS-DOS pack. • Microsoft Windows pack (if the system has a hard disk).
2 1 3 Chapter 1 4 5 Introducing the Apricot XEN 1/4 XEN OWNER'S HANDBOOK
Introducing the Apricot XEN 1 POWER button: press to turn the system on or off. The green indicator on the button lights when the system unit is powered. 2 activity indicators, from left to right: lights when a diskette, floppy disk or Irwin tape drive is accessed (depending on the operating system). lights when a hard disk drive is accessed (depending on the operating system). door (shown closed): hinges down to reveal the removable-media drive bay. 4 3.
1 2 10 3 4 5 6 7 11 8 12 9 Chapter 1 10 13 Introducing the Apricot XEN 1/6 XEN OWNER'S HANDBOOK
Introducing the Apricot XEN AC power outlet: where the monitor power cord can plug in. Only Apricot-approved monitors should be powered from this outlet. 2 voltage selection switch: the Apricot XEN can be set to operate with a 100-120 volt or 220-240 volt AC power supply. 3 AC power inlet: where the system unit AC power cord plugs in. 4 keyboard port: connect the keyboard to this port. 5 mouse port: connect the (optional) Apricot mouse to this port. 6 serial port 1: (110 baud to 14.
Introducing the Apricot XEN 1 2 3 6 4 Chapter 1 5 1/8 7 1 motherboard: see the label inside the system unit lid for up-to-date information on the layout of the motherboard. 2 expansion card slots: Three expansion slots, one half length and one full length ISA, and one full length slot which can be used by either an ISA or a PCI card. An additional connector is provided on the rear of the backplane, this is an Apricot proprietary connector which may be used in future developments of the XEN range.
GETTING STARTED WITH THE APRICOT XEN Chapter Chapter 2
Getting started with the Apricot XEN 2 GETTING STARTED WITH THE APRICOT XEN You should read this chapter even if you do not read any other. It provides important information to help you site, connect, power and configure the Apricot XEN. If you are familiar with the operation of personal computers, this chapter will probably tell you all you need to know in order to start working with your XEN.
Getting started with the Apricot XEN General advice The Apricot XEN is designed to be used in a normal office environment. Here are a few hints for choosing a suitable site: • Place the XEN system unit flat on a sturdy, level surface. Unlike some other computers, the system unit is not designed to be stood on its side. • Site the XEN away from moisture, direct sunlight, and extremes of heat and cold. Avoid situations in which the surrounding temperature or humidity may change rapidly.
Getting started with the Apricot XEN Connecting the components See Chapter 1, “Introducing the Apricot XEN”, if you need help indentifying the various ports on the system unit. Checking the AC power supply When your Apricot XEN is delivered, it is ready for the commercial AC power supply generally available in the country in which it is sold. It has been set for the correct voltage range, and is supplied with an AC power cord and plug which comply with the relevant safety standards.
Getting started with the Apricot XEN Connecting the components Having assured yourself that the voltage settings and the AC power cords of the computer, the monitor and any other peripherals are correct: 1. If your AC power outlets have switches, set them to their Off positions. 2. Ensure that the system unit, the monitor, and any peripherals are turned off. 3.
Getting started with the Apricot XEN Power-on self-test Whenever the XEN is turned on, the power-on self-test (POST) routine tests various hardware components, including memory, and checks the computer’s configuration. During this time, BIOS sign-on and POST messages are displayed. The boot sequence Provided that POST succeeds without discovering any serious errors or configuration discrepancies, the XEN attempts to find an operating system; that is, it attempts to boot.
Getting started with the Apricot XEN Preparing a second hard disk Some Apricot XEN computers have two hard disk drives, known as master and slave. Apricot partitions and formats the master drive with Microsoft MS-DOS at the factory. The drive is given a single primary DOS partition, which is the active partition. When you turn the computer on, it will boot (load its operating system) from the master drive, which will appear as MS-DOS drive C. The slave drive is not partitioned or formatted.
Getting started with the Apricot XEN In addition to a working copy of MS-DOS, Windows and the Windows display driver, your hard disk will contain images of DOS and Windows installation diskettes, and any drivers diskettes for your computer. A Windows utility is provided to allow you to create copies of these diskettes. This utility is run whenever you start Windows. You will need a copy of the display driver diskettes should you wish to install a display driver for a non-Windows application.
Getting started with the Apricot XEN Your XEN arrives preconfigured, but may need to be reconfigured after you add or remove add-on options such as memory modules or expansion cards. Invoking SETUP The SETUP utility can be invoked during the power up sequence. It is invoked by pressing the DEL or F1 key. Once you have reconfigured your computer you can exit SETUP. The XEN will then automatically reboot, and the changes come into effect.
Getting started with the Apricot XEN If the Windows help file you want to view is not already installed, or if for any other reason you need to view a Windows help file directly from a diskette: 1. Insert the diskette into a suitable drive. 2. Use Windows File Manager to view the contents of the diskette. 3. Choose the help file, identified by its .hlp file extension, either by double-clicking on its filename or by selecting the filename with the cursor and then pressing ENTER.
Getting started with the Apricot XEN Chapter 2 All the help files provided by Apricot have a version number so you can tell whether you’re looking at the most up-to-date version. You can discover the version number of a Windows help file by viewing it with Help and choosing About Help from the Help menu.
OPERATING THE APRICOT XEN Chapter Chapter 3
Operating the Apricot XEN 3 OPERATING THE APRICOT XEN This chapter contains all you need to know for the day-to-day operation of an Apricot XEN system. Note that the monitor has its own User’s Guide. Read the separate Power Connection Guide before using the Apricot XEN for the first time.
Operating the Apricot XEN Using the front panel controls The Apricot XEN has only a few front panel controls and activity indicators, and is very simple to use. DISKETTE ACTIVITY HARD DISK INDICATOR ACTIVITY INDICATOR POWER BUTTON The POWER button is used to turn the computer on and off. The green indicator in the button lights when the system is powered. This button also controls the power supply through the AC power outlet to the monitor.
Operating the Apricot XEN Using the 3.5" diskette drive The 3.5" diskette drive can read and write double-sided diskettes with a formatted capacity of either 1.44 Mbytes (if marked “HD” or “high density”) or 720 Kbytes (if marked “DD” or “double density”). Each diskette has a rigid plastic cover with a metal shutter that guards the disk surface. The drive automatically moves the shutter aside to read the diskette. Never touch the exposed surface under the shutter.
Operating the Apricot XEN Removing a diskette Before attempting to remove a diskette, ensure that the drive is not currently in use (the diskette activity indicator must be unlit). Press the EJECT button. The drive mechanism disengages and the diskette is ejected halfway out of the drive. Writeprotecting a diskette A diskette can be write-protected by sliding the small tab toward the edge of the diskette to expose the little hole beneath it (as shown below).
Operating the Apricot XEN Inserting a floppy disk Insert the disk into the drive slot with the read/write aperture foremost. When the disk is fully inserted, turn the locking lever one-quarter turn clockwise to engage the drive mechanism. Removing a floppy disk Before attempting to remove a disk, ensure that the drive is not currently in use (the drive’s LED must be unlit). Turn the locking lever one-quarter turn counter-clockwise to disengage the drive mechanism.
Operating the Apricot XEN The drive has its own headphone jack with associated volume level control. DISC DRAWER COMPACT HEADPHONE JACK AND HEADPHONE LEVEL BUSY INDICATOR EMERGENCY EJECT HOLE EJECT BUTTON Do not attempt to move the computer while a CD is in the drive, especially if the CD is being played at the time. The laser beam inside the SLCD CD-ROM drive is harmful to the eyes. Do not attempt to disassemble the CD-ROM drive. If a fault occurs, call an authorized Apricot maintainer.
Operating the Apricot XEN To eject the drawer manually (for example, during a power failure) you must first ensure that the computer is turned off. Then insert a thin metal rod (such as an unwound paper clip) into the emergency eject hole and push (see below). COMPACT Keep CDs well away from dust and moisture, and avoid touching the surface of the CD. Also, avoid extremes of temperature and exposure to direct sunlight.
Operating the Apricot XEN Inserting a cartridge 1. Remove the cartridge from its plastic holder. 2. Hold the cartridge so that the metal plate faces downwards, as shown below. Slide the cartridge into the drive slot until you feel a slight resistance. ACTIVITY INDICATOR WRITE-PROTECT TAB EJECT BUTTON METAL PLATE Chapter 3 Removing a cartridge Writeenabling a cartridge 3. Carefully push the cartridge in a bit further until it engages with the drive mechanism. 1.
Operating the Apricot XEN Using the SCSI QIC tape drive Your Apricot XEN may be configured with a SCSI QIC tape drive for quarter-inch tape cartridges. The software required to control the QIC tape drive depends on your operating environment; ask your Apricot supplier for details. Apricot currently supplies 150 Mbyte and 525 Mbyte QIC tape drives. However, these capacities depend on the type of cartridge and the recording format used.
Operating the Apricot XEN Chapter 3 Inserting a cartridge Removing a cartridge 3/10 1. Check that the green indicator on the tape drive is not lit. This indicates that the drive is ready to accept a cartridge. 2. Remove the cartridge from its plastic holder. 3. Insert the cartridge as shown below. Push the cartridge gently into the drive as far as it will go. 4. Push the control lever to the right to engage the mechanism. 1.
Operating the Apricot XEN Writeprotecting a cartridge 3. Push the control lever further to the left (you will feel a slight resistance as you do so) until the cartridge springs a short way out of the drive. 4. Pull the cartridge out of the drive slot. 5. Return the cartridge to its plastic holder. This protects the cartridge and prevents dust from collecting on the surface of the tape.
Operating the Apricot XEN Using the SCSI DDS or DDS-DC tape drive Your Apricot XEN may be configured with a SCSI DDS (Digital Data Storage) or SCSI DDS-DC (Digital Data Storage with Data Compression) tape drive. The software needed to control the drive depends on your operating environment; ask your Apricot supplier for details. The DDS-DC drive differs from the DDS drive in that it uses a built-in compression algorithm which can typically double, and in some cases quadruple, tape capacity.
Operating the Apricot XEN Use only cassettes bearing the DDS symbol; you cannot play audio DAT cassettes with these drives. The DDS drive has a nominal capacity of 1.3 Gbytes on a 60metre cassette, with a sustained transfer rate of 183 Kbytes/ second. The DDS-DC drive writing uncompressed data has a nominal capacity of 1.3 Gbytes on a 60-metre cassette or 2.0 Gbytes on a 90-metre cassette, with a sustained transfer rate of 366 Kbytes/second.
Operating the Apricot XEN Media warning A media warning, when the Cassette in Place (green) LED flashes slowly, indicates that the tape may be becoming unreliable, although at this point no data has been lost. First, clean the tape head cylinder with the special cleaning cassette available from Apricot, then try the data cassette again. If the warning persists, copy the data onto a new cassette and discard the old one.
Operating the Apricot XEN Inserting a cassette Insert the cassette into the slot with the triangular arrowhead on the cassette pointing towards the drive. As the tape is inserted, the drive takes it and automatically loads it into the drive mechanism. A load sequence checks ambient humidity, the tape format and data integrity. Unless the tape is blank the tape log, which contains a history of usage of the tape, is read into the drive’s memory.
Operating the Apricot XEN Writeprotecting a cassette A cassette can be write-protected by sliding the white tab on the cassette so that the recess is revealed. In this position, data can be read from the tape but not written to it. WRITE ENABLED WRITE PROTECT The tape log, which includes a record of data integrity failures, cannot be updated while the cassette is write-protected.
Operating the Apricot XEN The drive has its own headphone jack with associated volume level control. DISC CADDY SLOT CD Caddy COMPACT HEADPHONE JACK AND HEADPHONE LEVEL BUSY INDICATOR EJECT BUTTON EMERGENCY EJECT HOLE Do not attempt to move the computer while a CD is in the drive, especially if the CD is being played at the time. The laser beam inside the SCSI CD-ROM drive is harmful to the eyes. Do not attempt to disassemble the CD-ROM drive.
Operating the Apricot XEN 2. If there is a protective film on the centre of the caddy lid, remove it before using the caddy. 3. To open the caddy, press the tabs on both edges at the end opposite the shutter. 4. Set the disc, with its label upward, in the caddy. Handle the disc only by its edge. 5. Close the lid of the caddy firmly. 6. Insert the caddy into the slot of the drive with the disc’s label facing up and the arrow on the caddy pointing towards the drive (that is, shutter end foremost).
Operating the Apricot XEN Removing a compact disc 1. Ensure that the computer is turned on (otherwise the EJECT button will not work) and that the drive is not currently in use (the drive’s activity indicator must be unlit). 2. Press the EJECT button. The drive mechanism disengages and the caddy is partially ejected from the drive. The EJECT button can be disabled by the software controlling the CD-ROM drive. In this case pressing the EJECT button will have no effect.
Operating the Apricot XEN Using the Apricot XEN abroad Your Apricot XEN arrives ready to work with the commercial AC power supply available in the country in which it is first sold. If you plan to use your XEN in another country, you should first check the following facts about your destination: 1. The voltage and frequency of the commercial AC power supply. 2. The type of plug required for the AC power outlets.
CARING FOR THE APRICOT XEN Chapter Chapter 4
Caring for the Apricot XEN 4 This chapter provides information on how to care for your computer. The Apricot XEN requires little physical maintenance other than occasional cleaning. But you must take care when transporting it to avoid damage to its delicate components, particularly the hard disks.
Caring for the Apricot XEN Chapter 4 Cleaning the Apricot XEN Turn off the Apricot XEN and unplug all power cords before cleaning the computer. If you have any problems with the Apricot XEN which can’t be resolved by cleaning it, consult the “Troubleshooting” chapter. The system unit Do not use sprays, solvents or abrasives that might damage the computer’s surface. Do not use cleaning fluids or sprays near air vents, ports, or removable-media drives.
Caring for the Apricot XEN When necessary, clean the keycaps with a slightly damp cloth and a minimum amount of a non-abrasive cleaning agent. Take care not to spill any liquid onto the keyboard. Follow these steps if you spill something on the keyboard and it stops working: 1. If the liquid is viscous, unplug the keyboard and call your Apricot supplier or an authorized Apricot maintainer. 2.
Caring for the Apricot XEN Chapter 4 The Irwin FTD tape drive You should clean the read/write head and the capstan of the Irwin FTD frequently to prevent the accumulation of dust and metallic particles. If you notice read or write errors, or many bad blocks when using the drive, be sure to clean the head and capstan thoroughly before concluding that the drive or your tapes are defective. The read/write head and the capstan are accessible through the flip-up drive door, as shown below.
Caring for the Apricot XEN Rub an alcohol-dampened swab against the surface of the capstan using an up and down motion. Gently rotate the capstan and continue rubbing until the entire surface is clean. 3. Wait for at least one minute before using the tape drive. This allows any residual alcohol to evaporate. If you clean the read/write head first, and the swab is not too discoloured, you may use the same swab to clean the capstan.
Caring for the Apricot XEN Chapter 4 Transporting the Apricot XEN Turn off the Apricot XEN and unplug all power cords before moving the computer. Use common sense when handling the Apricot XEN; hard disks in particular can be damaged if the computer is dropped or handled roughly. As a precaution, back up (copy) the contents of your hard disks to tape or diskettes before moving the computer.
UPGRADING THE APRICOT XEN Chapter Chapter 5
Upgrading the Apricot XEN 5 UPGRADING THE APRICOT XEN This chapter contains instructions on installing add-ons and upgrades in the XEN. The areas covered include: expansion cards additional memory Chapter 5 • • • • • processor upgrades video RAM additional drives Read this chapter before purchasing an add-on or upgrade. If, having read the relevant instructions, you are not confident about installing the upgrade, you may wish to have your supplier or service organisation install it for you.
Upgrading the Apricot XEN Inside the system unit The illustration below identifies the major components inside the XEN system unit that are affected by the installation instructions later in this section. BLANKING PLATES POWER SUPPLY Chapter 5 EXPANSION CARD CONNECTORS SIMM SOCKETS TM DX2-66 486 3.5" DRIVE BAY intel i PROCESSOR SOCKET CARD GUIDES 5.
Upgrading the Apricot XEN Expansion cards are a relatively cheap way of upgrading your system. Moreover, they are usually quite easy to install, requiring no more than a cross-head screwdriver and a steady hand. Installation Installation of an expansion card in the XEN is a simple process requiring the removal of only the system unit cover and a blanking plate. The following instructions and illustrations describe how to install a card in a simple step-by-step sequence. Power the system down. 2.
Upgrading the Apricot XEN 4. The blanking plates described above are each secured by a screw. Using the following guidelines decide in which of the available slots you wish to install the card, then remove the appropriate blanking plate. Chapter 5 In general it is easiest to start with the lowest slot and work towards the top, but there a couple of exceptions. If you are installing a card that uses the video feature connector on the motherboard, it is best to install the card in the lowest slot.
Upgrading the Apricot XEN 6. Position the expansion card alongside the slot in which you wish to install it. Align the rear of the card with the slot in the rear of the system unit, and, if the card is full length, the front of the card with the card guide. 7. Slide the card into the slot ensuring that the card edge connector engages correctly with the backplane. 8. Carefully push the card fully home. Do not apply excessive pressure. 9.
Upgrading the Apricot XEN Memory upgrades The XEN motherboard is fitted with sockets for four SIMMs (Single In-line Memory Modules) these allow system RAM to be expanded to up to 128Mbytes using standard 72 pin, 70 nS SIMMs. Chapter 5 The SIMM sockets are located at the front of the motherboard, beneath the 5.25" drive bay. SIMMs must be installed in pairs.
Upgrading the Apricot XEN 5. Lift the bay out of the system unit and put it down on a safe flat surface. Removing SIMMs If you wish to install an upgrade in a bank which is already occupied you must first remove the existing SIMMs. For the first SIMM, lever the metal clips on each side of the socket gently away from the SIMM using your forefingers. 2. Place your thumbs on the top edge of the SIMM and move it gently towards the vertical. 3.
Chapter 5 Upgrading the Apricot XEN 2. Position the SIMM above the socket with the SIMM tilted slightly towards the front of the system unit. 3. Lower the SIMM into the socket, and ensure that the SIMM is properly located in the connector. 4. Pushing gently on the top corners rotate the SIMM towards horizontal until it clips into place. Do not use excessive force. If the SIMM will not rotate easily remove it and start again. 5.
Upgrading the Apricot XEN Slide the bay forward until the two holes in the bay line up with those in the hard drive assembly and the 5.25" bay securing bracket. 3. Replace the two screws that secure the 5.25" drive bay. 4. If there is a drive in the bay reconnect its power and signal cables. 5. Replace the system unit cover.
Upgrading the Apricot XEN Identify the processor socket. TM DX2-66 486 intel i Chapter 5 3. TM DX2-66 486 intel i The processor is installed in a ZIF socket. A lever attached to the socket clamps the processor securely in the socket when it is parallel to the motherboard. 4. Carefully rotate the lever from the secure position until it is perpendicular to the motherboard. FREE LOCKED The first and last 15° of movement may require considerable effort.
Upgrading the Apricot XEN Installation Once the processor is free of its socket lift it out of the system unit and place it on the anti-static foam provided with the upgrade processor. 1. The upgrade processor and socket are keyed to ensure that the processor can only be installed in one orientation. The inside of one corner of the socket has a key hole. The processor has a positioning guide in the form of a small dot of paint. 2.
Upgrading the Apricot XEN 4. Once you are certain that all the pins on the processor are in the holes in the socket carefully move the securing lever to the locked position. Chapter 5 The lever may require a considerable amount of force in order to lock the processor in place. Take care to exert no more force than is necessary. 5. Check that the clock speed and processor voltage jumpers are set correctly for the new processor.
Upgrading the Apricot XEN Identify the video RAM sockets from the following illustration. 7. One by one, carefully align the video RAM chips over the sockets. Make sure that they are in the correct orientation. Pin 1 6. Chapter 5 TM DX2-66 486 intel i 5.25" drives The 5.25" drive tray in the XEN system unit can contain any half height 5.25" device. Apricot supplies a range of tape and CDROM drives, and a 5.25" floppy drive, for this bay.
Upgrading the Apricot XEN If you are unfamiliar with Apricot’s recommended antistatic precautions and/or the process of removing the system unit cover refer to Appendix A. TM Chapter 5 DX2-66 486 intel i SECURING SCREWS 3. Loosen the two screws that secure the drive bay and slide the bay backwards. 4. Lift the bay out of the system unit. 5. The 5.25" drive aperture in the chassis at the front of the drive bay is obscured by a blanking plate.
Upgrading the Apricot XEN Break the blanking plate out by bending it backwards and returning it to the vertical several times. 7. Remove the drive from its packaging. With the drive there should be four screws and a signal cable. Some drives may be supplied with additional items. 8. If necessary configure the drive. Drives supplied by Apricot will be correctly configured for installation in a XEN.
Upgrading the Apricot XEN 13. Insert the four drive securing screws, and tighten them until they are finger tight. Chapter 5 SECURING SCREWS ACT COMP 14. Gently tighten the four screws. 15. Turn the drive bay over and replace it in the system unit. 16. Slide the bay forwards until the two holes in the bay line up with those in the hard drive assembly and the system unit brace.
Upgrading the Apricot XEN 17. Replace the two screws that secure the drive bay. 18. Behind the 5.25" drive bay is an unused power cable from the power supply. Connect this power cable to the power connector on the drive. 5.25" DRIVE POWER CABLE Chapter 5 TM DX2-66 486 intel i 19. The drive has now been installed and connected to a power cable. You must now connect it to a signal cable.
Upgrading the Apricot XEN Configuration The only configuration on these drives is via the drive select jumpers at the rear of the drive. The jumpers should be set to drive select 1 (DS1). SCSI drives Cabling Chapter 5 Apricot SCSI drive kits are supplied with a fitting kit. This kit includes a signal cable which is suitable for use with the drive supplied. The cable should be connected between the SCSI card and the rear of the drive. The following illustration shows the correct routing of the cable.
Upgrading the Apricot XEN 3.5" hard disk drive The XEN supports one 1.6" high or two 1" high, 3.5" hard disk drives. Preparation To install a hard disk drive you must first remove the 3.5" drive bay: Power the system down. 2. If there is a diskette in the 3.5" floppy drive, remove it. 3. Take suitable anti-static precautions and remove the system unit cover.
Upgrading the Apricot XEN The 3.5" drive bay is secured by two screws and two lugs in the system unit base. Identify the screws and lugs from the following illustration. TM DX2-66 486 intel i Chapter 5 9. SECURING SCREWS 10. Remove the two securing screws shown in the illustration above. 11. Slide the 3.5" drive bay backwards and lift it out of the system unit. Drive configuration The XEN 3.5" drive bay supports two 1" high hard disk drives.
Upgrading the Apricot XEN Installing the drive 1. Having configured the drive, turn the drive bay upsidedown and rest it on a flat surface with the front of the floppy drive towards you. 2. Slide the hard disk drive you are installing into the bay form the front, with the drive circuit board up, and its connectors away from you. Chapter 5 Warning If there is a drive in the bay already, be careful to ensure that the new drive does not touch it. 3.
Upgrading the Apricot XEN Chapter 5 Reassembling the system 1. Replace the 3.5" drive bay in the system unit. Making sure that the cutouts in the bay align with the lugs in the base of the system unit. 2. Carefully slide the 3.5" drive bay forwards. The bay is in position when the floppy drive operating button protrudes through the front bezel and the two screw holes in the bay line up with those in the base of the system unit. 3. Replace the two securing screws. 4. Connect the 3.
USING THE SETUP UTILITY Chapter Chapter 6
Using the SETUP utility 6 USING THE SETUP UTILITY Introduction The Apricot XEN motherboard is fitted with a small area of memory which is used to store information about the configuration of the computer. The computer’s configuration is modified using a SETUP utility provided in Read Only Memory (ROM) on the motherboard. A battery on the XEN motherboard maintains the configuration memory when the computer is switched off.
Using the SETUP utility Using SETUP A number of keys are used to move around the SETUP utility and change the configuration. The following list describes the use of each key. Esc Exits the current screen. Moves the highlight to the next/previous option. Chapter 6 In the opening screen the enter key invokes the selected option. 6/2 F1 Calls context sensitive help when available. F2/F3 These two keys scroll through the possible colour combinations.
Using the SETUP utility Opening menu The SETUP program initially displays a menu to select three screens of SETUP options, and various actions including setting a password, and saving or discarding changes that you’ve made. Description Standard CMOS SETUP Sets up and modifies some basic options, such as time, date, floppy drives, hard drives, keyboard.
Using the SETUP utility Chapter 6 Standard CMOS SETUP Date Specifies the system date. This is the date used by the operating system. It can also be set from the Windows Control Panel or at the DOS prompt. Time Specifies the system time. This is the time used by the operating system. It can also be set from the Windows Control Panel or at the DOS prompt. Floppy drive A: Floppy drive A: is always fitted in this implementation and is always a 1.44 MB, 3.5-inch drive.
Using the SETUP utility For drives of capacity greater than 528 Mbytes (e.g. the 1 Gbyte drive shipped in XEN) this option should be set to Auto, and the IDE LBA translation option in Advanced CMOS SETUP must be enabled. Drive C, D, E, F: timeout Specifies for the time that the BIOS will spend interrogating the drive for IDE auto-configuration before displaying an error message. The options are 0, 5, 15, or 31 seconds, default is 5 seconds.
Using the SETUP utility System Boot-up Num Lock Choices are either On or Off. The default is on. This sets the state of the “Num Lock” key on your keyboard when the system boots. If you regularly use the numeric keypad on your keyboard to enter numerical data then the default will suit you. If, on the other hand, you use the numeric keypad as cursor control keys then you may prefer to select Off.
Using the SETUP utility Select either Enabled or Disabled. The default is disabled. This selection is tied to the next selection “Disable Shadow Memory Base”. If the shadow memory base address is set to either C0000H or D0000H, you can select a shadow memory size of 16, 32, 48, or 64 KB. Disable Shadow Memory Base This selection allows you to alter the location of the shadow memory base address. The choices are in the C0000H or D0000H range, with several options in each range.
Chapter 6 Using the SETUP utility Enhanced ISA Timing This selection is either enabled or disabled. The default is disabled. When this option is enabled, the ISA bus will operate at 10 MHz. This can result in faster system performance if the ISA adapters in the system can tolerate 10 MHz (instead of the standard 8 MHz). ISA IRQ 9 Select free or used. Select used if your system contains an ISA adapter that uses this interrupt.
Using the SETUP utility Onboard IDE drive First Serial Port Address Enabled or disabled. Choices include disabled, or address 2E8H, 3E8H, 2F8H, or 3F8H. If “Programming Option” has been set to auto, this address will display “disabled.” Warning Do not select the 2E8H option. This may adversely affect the operation of the on-board video. Second Serial Port Address Select Disabled or address 2E8H, 3E8H, 2F8H, or 3F8H. If “Programming Option” has been set to auto, this address will display “disabled.
Using the SETUP utility Change Password Specifying a password in this utility enables the system password function. When a password is specified it must be entered every time the system is booted. The password can be changed or deleted using this utility. To delete the password or disable the password function, specify the new password to be a carriage return. Chapter 6 Once you specify a password, you cannot enter SETUP without entering the password.
TROUBLESHOOTING Chapter Chapter 7
Troubleshooting 7 TROUBLESHOOTING This chapter offers advice if you suspect a fault with your Apricot XEN. If in doubt, turn off the computer and unplug all power cords before consulting your Apricot supplier or an authorized Apricot maintainer. This chapter is concerned only with problems caused by the Apricot XEN itself; remember that problems can also arise from other sources such as your network cabling, operating system or application software.
Troubleshooting Problems when starting Power-on self-test Whenever the Apricot XEN is turned on or reset, the power-on self-test (POST) routine tests various hardware components, including memory, and compares the actual configuration of the machine with that recorded in configuration (CMOS) memory. A configuration discrepancy could arise if you have just installed or removed a hardware option (for example, if you have added or replaced a SIMM).
Troubleshooting The rest of this section lists some of the error messages that can be displayed when the XEN fails to boot. Non-system disk or disk error Press the F1 key to continue The diskette drive contains a non-system diskette. Replace it with a system diskette and press F1. Diskette read failure Press the F1 key to continue The diskette is either not formatted or defective. Replace it with a system diskette and press F1.
Troubleshooting Troubleshooting charts The charts on the following pages should help you diagnose and remedy problems with your Apricot XEN. The charts are organized by hardware component. Problems with the system unit Problem Diagnosis The XEN will not start when the POWER button is pressed. The AC power supply is not switched on. The XEN power cord is loose. The fuse in the AC plug has blown. Chapter 7 The power cord is broken inside.
Troubleshooting Note that, within a chart, the possible diagnoses of a problem are listed in order of decreasing likelihood. Remedy Switch on the supply at the AC power outlet. Push the plugs in firmly at the AC power outlet and at the XEN power inlet. This may be caused by a AC power surge, but is more often a symptom of problems with the XEN or its peripherals. Switch the computer off and disconnect the AC power supply. Unplug all peripherals. Try to discover the cause of the fault.
Troubleshooting Problems with expansion cards Problem Diagnosis A card that was just installed does not seem to work. The card is installed incorrectly. The software that drives or uses the card is configured incorrectly. You may have inadvertently loosened other cards or cables inside the XEN. The card is faulty. A card that used to work does not work now. You may have inadvertently loosened the card or its cables inside the XEN.
Troubleshooting Remedy Read the installation guide or user’s guide that accompanies the card very carefully. Make sure that the card has been configured correctly and that there are no configuration clashes between the card and other cards or XEN components. If a diskette came with the card, look for a “readme” file which might contain up-to-date installation instructions. Sometimes the software that drives or uses an expansion card needs to know the card’s configuration settings.
Troubleshooting Problems with the diskette or floppy disk drive Problem Diagnosis A diskette refuses to load into the disk drive. You may be inserting the disk incorrectly. Something is stuck in the drive slot (for example, a disk label). The drive does not seem able to read a disk correctly. The disk may not have been formatted for your operating system. The disk may have become corrupted by strong magnetic fields, or subjected to extremes of temperature and humidity.
Troubleshooting Remedy Insert a 31/2" diskette metal-shutter end first, with the label side facing up. Insert a 51/4" disk with the write protect notch near you and to the left. Do not try to remove the object with tweezers or any similar implement: you will damage the drive. Call an authorized Apricot maintainer. Consult your operating system documentation. Try a proprietary data recovery utility. Ask your Apricot supplier or an authorized Apricot maintainer for advice.
Troubleshooting Problems with a hard disk drive Problem Diagnosis The hard disk drive LED does not light while a drive is being accessed. The LED circuitry is faulty. The drive does not seem able to read data correctly. The disk may not have been formatted for your operating system. The hard disk drive is faulty. The disk may have become corrupted by strong magnetic fields, or subjected to extremes of temperature and humidity. There may be condensation on the surface of the disk.
Troubleshooting Remedy Call an authorized Apricot maintainer. Call an authorized Apricot maintainer. Consult your operating system documentation. Try a proprietary data recovery utility. Ask your Apricot supplier or an authorized Apricot maintainer for advice. A cold system unit brought into a humid room may collect condensation on its hard disks. Wait until the system unit has adjusted to room temperature before using it. File attributes and access permissions may be set by your operating system.
Troubleshooting Problems with the keyboard Problem Diagnosis The keyboard does not seem to work. The keyboard is plugged into the mouse port. The keyboard signal cable is loose. The key functions have been “remapped” by software. Some small object has fallen between the keys. Liquid has seeped between the keys. The keyboard was plugged in while the system was powered up. Chapter 7 The keyboard is faulty or the keyboard signal cable is broken inside.
Troubleshooting Remedy This is easily done as the two ports look identical. The keyboard port is the small circular port nearest the power supply. Push the plug firmly into the keyboard port. Consult your software documentation. Unplug the keyboard, turn it upside down and shake it. If you cannot dislodge the object, call an authorized Apricot maintainer. If the liquid is viscous, unplug the keyboard and call an authorized Apricot maintainer.
Troubleshooting Problems with the mouse Problem Diagnosis The mouse does not seem to work, or cursor movement on the screen is erratic. The mouse is plugged into the keyboard port. The mouse signal cable is loose. The mouse is dirty. The mouse device driver is not loaded. The mouse was plugged in while the system was powered up. The mouse is faulty or the mouse signal cable is broken inside. Problems with the monitor Diagnosis There is no display, or the display is poor.
Troubleshooting Remedy This is easily done as the two ports look identical. The keyboard port is the small circular port nearest the power supply. Push the plug firmly into the mouse port. Clean the mouse as described in Chapter 4, "Caring for the Apricot XEN". A mouse device driver is software which mediates between the mouse and your operating system. This driver must be loaded into the computer’s memory. Check your operating system documentation to ensure that it is being used correctly.
INSIDE THE APRICOT XEN Chapter Appendix A
Inside the Apricot XEN A INSIDE THE APRICOT XEN This appendix provides step-by-step instructions on obtaining access to the inside of the Apricot XEN system unit. Note that instructions for installing upgrade options are provided in Chapter 5 "Upgrading the Apricot XEN". Turn off the Apricot XEN and unplug all power cords before removing the top cover. Also included here is information on configuring expansion cards, and on motherboard jumper settings.
Inside the Apricot XEN Anti-static precautions Static electricity can cause permanent damage to electronic components. You should be aware of this risk, and take precautions against the discharge of static electricity into your computer. Anyone can generate static electricity by moving on a chair, brushing against desks or walls, or simply walking across an ordinary carpet. Items handed from one person to another, or being wrapped or unwrapped, can acquire a static charge.
Inside the Apricot XEN Handle static-sensitive items with extreme care. Hold expansion cards and add-on components only by their edges, avoiding their electrical contacts. Never touch the components or electrical contacts on the motherboard or on expansion cards. In general, do not handle static-sensitive items unnecessarily. Keep all conductive material, and food and drink, away from your work area and the open computer. Removing the top cover 1.
Inside the Apricot XEN Configuring expansion cards Many expansion cards have a number of configurable options. These options can include items such as: the interrupt used, the DMA channel used, where any ROM on the card will appear in the processor’s memory map and which I/O ports are used to control the card. Most ISA cards use jumpers and/or switches to select their configuration options. If this is the case then the card should be configured before you install it.
Inside the Apricot XEN Interrupts (IRQ) The XEN (like every other ISA compatible PC) supports 15 hardware interrupts. These interrupts are used to alert the processor that a peripheral (e.g. the keyboard controller, or an expansion card) requires a particular piece of software to be executed. This piece of software is known as an interrupt service routine. Each peripheral has a unique interrupt service routine that is executed in response to the interrupt assigned to that peripheral.
Inside the Apricot XEN Selecting IRQs for cards The table below lists the interrupts available on the motherboard and their default functions. The notes explain whether the default function can be disabled, if so how, and under what circumstances it is safe to do so. Interrupts Default Function Notes IRQ5, IRQ9 IRQ10, IRQ11 Not used These interrupts are not used by the motherboard and are available for expansion cards.
Inside the Apricot XEN DMA channels ISA compatible PCs are equipped with a seven channel DMA (Direct Memory Access) controller. This DMA subsystem allows peripherals to access motherboard memory directly. Without the DMA subsystem every memory access would have to involve the processor. Using DMA, peripherals can access memory without stopping the processor executing its current task. On the XEN motherboard only DMA channel 2 is used, the other six channels are all available for use by expansion cards.
Inside the Apricot XEN If you think of the decimal system using columns: 1000 (10x10x10) 100 (10x10) 10 (10) 1 (1) 100 0 10 1 1 9 The number 1019 is: 1000 1 Each time you add 1 to a column that contains 9, that column goes back to 0 and you add 1 to the column to the left. The columns represent powers of 10: 10x10, 10x10x10 and so on, and the decimal system is said to be base 10. The hex numbering system uses a base of 16.
Inside the Apricot XEN We can demonstrate that 3FB is exactly the same as 1019 by: (4096x0)+(256x3)+(16xF)+(1xB)=768+240+11=1019 Note A lower case h is often used at the end of a number to ensure that you realise it is in hex format e.g. 3FBh. A larger hex number and one that you will come across in the Memory map description below is A0000h. To see this as a decimal number: 16x16x16x16 A 16x16x16 0 16x16 0 16 1 0 0 16x16x16x16=65536 So A0000h is 65536x10=655360. If you have Microsoft Windows 3.
Inside the Apricot XEN Every address contains 8-bits of data, a byte. Each bit can be thought of as a switch which can be either on or off. A byte is like a bank of 8-switches, where each switch can be on or off. ON OFF ON 1 OFF 1 2 3 BIT 4 5 6 7 8 BYTE So 1Mbyte of memory consists of 1048576 (see Numbers and computers) locations each containing one byte of data. When installing expansion cards it is the first (bottom) Mbyte of address space that is of most interest.
Inside the Apricot XEN Note The top location of this first Mbyte is 1M-1 or FFFFFh. This is because in the first Mbyte there are 1M locations, starting at 0. Location 1M is the start of the second Mbyte of address space. The memory map above shows the uses of the first Mbyte of address space. The memory map is arranged in this way in order to be compatible with the ISA standard. The region from 0 to 640k-1 (00000h to 9FFFFh) is used by DOS.
Inside the Apricot XEN On the XEN motherboard video BIOS is accessed from C0000h to C7FFFh. If you are installing a video card it should be configured with its BIOS occupying this region. Note If your video card does not allow you to configure the address range of its BIOS it will be set to the C0000h range. The region from C8000h to DFFFFh is available for expansion card ROM other than video BIOS.
Inside the Apricot XEN I/O ports (Hex) 000 - 00F 020 - 021 040 - 043 048 060 - 064 070 - 078 080 - 08F 0A0 - 0BF 0C0 - 0DF 0F0 1F0 - 1F7 278 - 27F 2F8 - 2FF 378 - 37F 3B8 - 3BF 3E8 - 3EF 3F0 - 3F7 3F8 - 3FF 0CF8 0CF9 C000 - C3FF Used by DMA controller Interrupt controller 1 System timer System timer Keyboard controller Real time clock, NMI mask DMA page register Interrupt controller 2 DMA controller 2 Math coprocessor Hard disk drive controller Parallel port 3 Serial port 2 Parallel port 2 Parallel port 1
Inside the Apricot XEN Motherboard jumper settings The XEN motherboard is fitted with a number of jumpers that are used to configure the operation of the system. The following illustration shows the position of the jumpers. J12 G3 J12 G5 (1) (2) (1) (2) J13 H1 (1) (2) (3) J12 G1 (1) (2) J7 A1 (1) (2) Appendix A The illustration above shows the location of the jumpers on the motherboard.
Inside the Apricot XEN System Board Location Setting Illustrated Reserved J7A1(1) Not fitted 66MHz/60MHz: CPU clock speed J7A1(2) 66MHz Clear/don't clear CMOS: allows CMOS to be reset to factory-default settings. J12G1(1) Don't reset CMOS defaults Clear/don't clear password: allows the BIOS password to be overridden. J12G1(2) Don't clear password Flash normal/flash recovery: allows recovery of the default BIOS, if the BIOS is corrupted during an upgrade.
TECHNICAL INFORMATION Chapter Appendix B
Technical Information TECHNICAL INFORMATION This appendix provides some technical information about the Apricot XEN. More detailed information is available from your Apricot supplier.
Appendix B Technical Information Specifications System processor Intel Pentium 66 Intel Pentium 60 BIOS ROM 128 Kb 8-bit Memory Four 36-bit 70ns SIMMs (128 Mb maximum) Apricot Advanced Graphics Controller Video RAM Resolutions ATI 68800AX 1 Mb or 2 Mb EVGA 1280 x 1024 EVGA 1024 x 768 SVGA 800 x 600 VGA 640 x 480 I/O ports Serial dual 9-way male D-type RS-232 supporting baud rates from 110 baud to 14.
Technical Information Discs Acceptable discs Disc diameter CD-ROM mode 1 data discs CD-ROM mode 2 data discs CD audio discs Audio-combined CD-ROM Multisession Photo-CD 12 cm, 8 cm Transfer rate Sustained Burst 150 Kbyte/s, normal 300 Kbyte/s, double Access time Full stroke 0.65s, typical, normal 0.60s, typical, double 0.40, typical, normal 0.35, typical, double Average (random) Audio output Power requirement Line Headphone 0.7 V at 47 kOhm 0.
Technical Information Appendix B SCSI DDS tape drive Nominal capacity Transfer rate Unrecoverable errors Recording format These specifications apply when a cassette is inserted. Power specifications are measured at the tape drive power connector and are nominal values. 60-metre cassette 1.
Technical Information Voltage Ripple Current (max) +12 V dc + 10% +5 V dc + 7% +12 V: 100 mVp-p +5 V: 100 mVp-p 1.40 A @ +12 V dc 1.30 A @ +5 V dc SCSI CD-ROM drive (CDU561) Discs Transfer rate Access time Acceptable discs Disc diameter CD-ROM mode 1 data discs CD-ROM mode 2 data discs CD audio discs Audio-combined CD-ROM discs Photo-CD discs 12 cm, 8 cm Sustained from media Burst across SCSI bus 150 Kbyte/s (normal) 300 Kbyte/s (double) 2.1 Mbyte/s 4.
Appendix B Technical Information Physical characteristics Weight and dimensions Component Height Depth Width System unit 94 mm 430 mm 428 mm Keyboard 40 mm 205 mm 488 mm 1 depending on configuration Temperature and humidity ranges 9.5-12 kg 1 1.4 kg The Apricot XEN is designed to operate in a normal office environment, but during storage and transportation the system is more tolerant of environmental factors.
Technical Information Voltage ranges The PSU voltage range is initially set to that appropriate for the country in which the computer is first sold. Setting AC Voltage Frequency 115V 100 to 120 V 50 to 60 Hz 230V 220 to 240 V 50 to 60 Hz The voltage range setting of the monitor must always agree with that of the system unit PSU. Power cords Current ratings The power cord supplied with the Apricot XEN complies with the safety standards applicable in the country in which it is first sold.
Appendix B Technical Information Port characteristics Serial ports (COM1/COM2) 9-way male D-type 1 5 9 6 10101 B/8 Pin I/O Function 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 I I O O NA I O I I Data carrier detect Receive data Transmit data Data terminal ready Signal ground Data set ready Request to send Clear to send Ring indicate XEN OWNER'S HANDBOOK
Technical Information 25-way female D-type 13 1 25 14 Pin I/O Function 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 I/O I/O I/O I/O I/O I/O I/O I/O I/O I I I I O I O O NA NA NA NA NA NA NA NA -STROBE Data bit 0 Data bit 1 Data bit 2 Data bit 3 Data bit 4 Data bit 5 Data bit 6 Data bit 7 -ACK BUSY PE SLCT -AUTO FEED -ERROR -INIT -SLCT IN Ground Ground Ground Ground Ground Ground Ground Ground XEN OWNER'S HANDBOOK B/9 Appendix B Parallel port (LPT1)
Appendix B Technical Information Monitor port (VGA) 15-way female D-type 5 1 6 10 15 11 Pin I/O Output Monochrome Colour 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 O O O NA NA NA NA NA NA NA NA NA O O NA Red Green Blue Reserved Digital G Red Rtn Green Rtn Blue Rtn Plug Digital G Reserved Reserved Hsync Vsync Reserved No pin Mono No pin No pin Self test Key pin Mono Rtn No pin No pin Digital G No pin Digital G Hsync Vsync No pin Red Green Blue No pin Self test Red Rtn Green Rtn Blue Rtn No pin Di
Technical Information Both the keyboard and mouse ports accept 6-pin miniature DIN connectors. The voltages and signals are the same for both connectors. 5 6 6 3 4 4 1 2 5 3 2 1 Pin I/O Function 1 2 3 4 5 6 I/O NA NA NA I/O NA Data Reserved Ground +5 Vdc Clock Reserved Although the keyboard and mouse ports are physically and electrically compatible, neither the keyboard nor the mouse will operate if plugged into the other’s socket.
Appendix B Technical Information Video feature connector The XEN motherboard video adapter provides a video feature connector. The connector on the motherboard uses a standard pinout and a standard cable may be used to connect the feature connector to an expansion card. In case you have difficulty obtaining a cable the pinout of the motherboard connector is given in the following table.
apricot APRICOT COMPUTERS LIMITED 3500 PARKSIDE BIRMINGHAM BUSINESS PARK BIRMINGHAM B37 7YS.
