Epson 386-25 User Manual

FCC COMPLIANCE STATEMENT FOR AMERICAN USERS
This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a class B digital device, pursuant to Part 15 of the FCC Rules. These limits are designed to provide reasonable protection against harmful interference ln a residential installation. This equipment generates, uses and can radiate radio frequency energy and, if not installed and used in accordance with the instructions, may cause harmful interference to radio or television reception. However, there is no guarantee that interference will not occur in a particular installation. If this equipment does cause interference to radio and television reception, which can be determined by turning the equipment off and on, the user is encouraged to try to correct the interference by one or more of the following measures:
.
Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna
.
Increase the separation between the equipment and receiver
.
Connect the equipment into an outlet on a circuit different from that to which the receiver is connected
.
Consult the dealer or an experienced radio/TV technician for help.
WARNING
The connection of a non-shielded equipment interface cable to this equipment will invalidate the FCC Certification of this device and may cause interference levels which exceed the limits established by the FCC for this equipment. It is the responsibility of the user to obtain and use a shielded equipment interface cable with this device. If this equipment has more than one interface connector, do not leave cables connected to unused interfaces.
Changes or modifications not expressly approved by Epson America, Inc., could void the user’s authority to operate the equipment.
FOR CANADIAN USERS
This digital apparatus does not exceed the Class B limits for radio noise emissions from digital apparatus as set out in the radio interference regulations of the Canadian Department of Communications.
Le présent appareil numérique n’émet pas de bruits radioélectriques dépassant les limites applicables aux appareils numériques de Classe B prescrites dans le règlement sur le brouillage radioélectriques édicté par le Ministère des Communications du Canada.
IMPORTANT NOTICE
DISCLAIMER OF WARRANTY
Epson America makes no representations or warranties, either express or implied, by or with respect to anything in this manual, and shall not be liable for any implied warranties of merchantability and fitness for a particular purpose or for any indirect, special, or consequential damages. Some states do not allow the exclusion of incidental or consequential damages, so this exclusion may not apply to you.
COPYRIGHT NOTICE
All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system, or transmitted, in any form or by any means, electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording, or otherwise, without the prior written permission of Epson America, Inc. No patent liability is assumed with respect to the use of information contained herein. While every precaution has been taken in the preparation of this publication, Epson America assumes no responsibility for errors or omissions. Nor is any liability assumed for damages resulting from the use of the information contained herein. Further, this publication and features described herein are subject to change without notice.
TRADEMARKS
Epson is a registered trademark of Seiko Epson Corporation. Equity is a registered trademark of Epson America, Inc. General notice: Other product names used herein are for identification purposes only
and may be trademarks of their respective companies.
Copyright © 1990 by Epson America, Inc. Torrance, California
ii
Y70799100100
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. Do not use this product near water.
4.
5.
Do not place this product on an unstable cart, stand, or table.
The product may fall, causing serious damage to the product.
6.
Slots and openings in the cabinet and the back or bottom are provided for ventilation; to ensure reliable operation of the product and to protect it from overheating, these openings must not be blocked or covered. The openings should never be blocked by placing the product on a bed, sofa, rug, or other similar surface. This product should never be placed near or over a radiator or heat register. This product should not be placed in a built-in
installation unless proper ventilation is provided.
7.
This product should be operated from the type of power source
indicated on the marking label. If you are not sure of the type of
power available, consult your dealer or local power company.
8.
This product is equipped with a 3-wire grounding-type plug, a plug having a third (grounding) pin. This plug will only fit into a grounding-type power outlet. This is a safety feature. If you are unable to insert the plug into the outlet, contact your electrician
to replace your obsolete outlet. Do not defeat the purpose of the
grounding-type plug.
9.
Do not locate this product where the cord will be walked on.
10. If an extension cord is used with this product, make sure that the total of the ampere ratings on the products plugged into the extension cord do not exceed the extension cord ampere rating. Also, make sure that the total of all products plugged into the wall outlet does not exceed 15 amperes.
. . .
111
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. Refer all servicing in those compartments to service personnel.
13. Unplug this product from the wall outlet and refer servicing to qualified service personnel under the following conditions:
A. When the power cord or plug is damaged or frayed.
If liquid has been spilled into the product.
B.
If the product has been exposed to rain or water.
C.
If the product does not operate normally when the operating
D.
instructions are followed. Adjust only those controls that are covered by the operating instructions, since improper adjustment of other controls may result in damage and will often require extensive work by a qualified technician to restore the product to normal operation.
iv
If the product has been dropped or the cabinet has been
E.
damaged. If the product exhibits a distinct change in performance,
F.
indicating a need for service.

Contents

Introduction
Optional Equipment Operating Systems and Other Software VGA Utilities How to Use This Manual Where to Get Help
Chapter 1
1 Choosing a Location 2 Removing the Protector Card.
3 Connecting a Monitor
Using the VGA Interface Using a Display Adapter Card
4 Connecting a Printer or Other Device.
Using the Parallel Interface
Using the Serial Interface. 5 Connecting the Keyboard. 6 Connecting the Mouse 7 Connecting the Power Cord 8 Turning On the Computer
Turning Off the Computer.
Setting Up Your System
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2
2 3 3 5
1-1 1-3
1-4 1-4 1-7 1-8 1-8
1-11 1-12 1-13 1-15 1-16 1-18
Chapter 2
Automatic Configuration
Starting the Setup Program.
Continuing From an Error Message
Moving the Cursor Block
Running the Setup Program
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2-2 2-2 2-4 2-6
V
Setting the Display Adapter Type. Setting the Power-on Password Setting the Extended Memory Caching Setting the Processor Speed Setting the Keyboard and Speaker Options Setting the Real-time Clock Setting the Hard Disk Drive Configuration
Hard Disk Drive Types ...........................
Setting the Diskette Drive Type(s). Setting the Serial/Parallel Interfaces.
Reviewing Your Settings. .............................
Leaving the Setup Menu ..............................
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2-7 2-9 2-12 2-14 2-15 2-17 2-20 2-24 2-26 2-27
2-29 2-31
Chapter 3
Installing MS-DOS or Another Operating System
Copying the Reference and Utility Files.
Special Keys on the Keyboard. Stopping a Command or Program.
Resetting the Computer
Using a Power-on Password.
Changing a Power-on Password Deleting a Power-on Password
Using Disks and Disk Drives
How Disks Store Data
Types of Diskette Drives. .........................
Caring for Diskettes and Diskette Drives Write-protecting Diskettes. Using a Single Diskette Drive System
Inserting and Removing Diskettes
Formatting Diskettes.............................
Making Backup Copies ...........................
Using a Hard Disk Drive..........................
Using Your Computer
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3-1 3-2 3-3 3-5 3-5 3-7 3-8 3-9 3-10 3-10
3-12 3-14 3-16 3-18 3-19 3-21 3-21 3-22
vi
Chapter 4
Enhancing System Operations
Using AUTOEXEC.BAT and Other Batch Files. Changing the Processor Speed
Entering Keyboard Commands. Using the ESPEED Program.
Reassigning the Diskette Drives
Using the AFDD Program
Using Your Computer as a Network Server ...............
Using a Password in Network Server Mode Using Expanded Memory Beyond 640KB. Using Special VGA Features.
Chapter 5
Removing the Cover. ................................
Changing the Jumper Settings
Setting the Jumpers. Installing an Option Card Removing an Option Card Adding Memory Modules
Installing Memory Modules
Removing Memory Modules. Installing a Math Coprocessor. Removing a Math Coprocessor.
Replacing the Cover .................................
Post-installation Setup ...............................
Installing and Removing Options
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4-1 4-2 4-4 4-5 4-7 4-8 4-9 4-11 4-12 4-13
5-2 5-6 5-7 5-10 5-15 5-16 5-17 5-22 5-25 5-30 5-30 5-32
Appendix A
Preparing to Install Drivers or Utilities Using the VGA Driver Setup Program
Microsoft Windows/286, Versions 2.03, 2.10, and 2.11 Microsoft Windows/386, Versions 2.03, 2.10, and 2.11 Microsoft Windows, Version 3.0.
Using the VGA Utilities
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A-4
A-4
...... A-8
...... A-10
A-l 1
vii
Microsoft/IBM OS/2 Presentation Manager,
Versions 1.1 and 1.2
Microsoft Word,Version 5.0
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Autodesk AutoCAD, Version 2.62. .....................
Autodesk AutoCAD, Version 9.00. .....................
Autodesk AutoCAD, Version 10.0. .....................
Autodesk AutoCAD 386, Version 10.0 Autodesk AutoCAD, Version 10.0 (Fast Display List) Digital Research GEM, Version 2.2
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......
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Digital Research GEM, Version 3.0 .....................
Ventura Publisher, Versions 1.0 and 1.1 ..................
Ventura Publisher, Version 2.0 .........................
Lotus 1-2-3, Release 2.0 and Lotus Symphony,
Releases 1.0, 1.1, and 2.0 ...........................
Ashton-Tate Framework II, Release 1.0 ..................
WordStar, Version 3.3.
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WordStar, Versions 4.0 and 5.0 ........................
WordPerfect, Versions 4.0 and 4.1
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WordPerfect, Version 5.0 .............................
VersaCAD Design, Version 5.4. ........................
VersaCAD 386, Version 5.4 CADVANCE, Version 3.50 OrCAD, Version 3.22 Generic CADD, Version 1.1, Level 3. VESA Driver, Version 1.0.
Using SETVESA Using VTEST
Utility Programs
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VGAMODE Utility SETVGA Utility MODETEST Utility. WS33INST Utility SNOOZE Utility.
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A-13 A-15 A-16 A-18 A-20 A-23 A-25 A-27 A-29 A-31 A-33
A-34 A-37 A-39 A-41 A-43 A-44 A-46 A-48 A-49 A-51 A-52 A-54 A-55 A-56 A-57 A-57 A-59 A-62 A-63 A-63
VIII
*..
Appendix B
Installing and Removing Disk Drives
Using the Correct Drive Bay. How to Use This Appendix Setting the Hard Disk Drive Jumpers
Setting the Jumpers for Two Hard Disk Drives Changing the Jumper Settings
Installing a Hard Disk in the Vertical Position. ............
Removing the Mounting Frames From the Drive Removing and Attaching the Mounting Plate Installing the Drive.

Connecting the Hard Disk Drive Cables

Removing a Hard Disk From the Vertical Position .........
Installing or Removing a Disk Drive in the
Horizontal Position
Removing the Subassembly .......................

Installing a Disk Drive in the Horizontal Position.

Replacing the Drive on the Subassembly.

Removing a Disk Drive From the Horizontal Position . .
Replacing the Subassembly.
Appendix C
Choosing the Type of Format
Reformatting a Used Disk.
Formatting a New Disk.
Selecting an Option
Starting the Formatting Process ....................
Option 1, Format
Modifying the Defective Track Table
Formatting the Disk .............................
Option 2, Destructive Surface Analysis .................. C-10
Option 3, Non-destructive Surface Analysis .............. C-12
Exiting the Hard Disk Format Menu.
Physically Formatting a Hard Disk
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B-2 B-3 B-4 B-4 B-5 B-8 B-8 B-10 B-13 B-18 B-24
B-27 B-28 B-34 B-42 B-44 B-47
C-2 C-3 C-4 C-4 C-4 C-5 C-7 C-9
C-13
ix
Appendix D Troubleshooting
Identifying Your System Error Messages
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The Computer Won’t Start.
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The Computer Does Not Respond Password Problems.
Removing a Password
Setting a New Password Keyboard Problems Monitor Problems
Diskette Problems Diskette Drive Problems Hard Disk Problems. Software Problems. Printer Problems Option Card Problems. Mouse Problems.
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Using the MOUSE7PT.EXE Program
Memory Module Problems
Math Coprocessor Problems
Appendix E
Performing System Diagnostics
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D-l D-2 D-5 D-6 D-8 D-9 D-11
D- 12
D-13
D-15
D-18
D-19
D-22
D-23
D-25 D-26 D-27 D-28 D-29
Starting System Diagnostics Selecting an Option
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Modifying the Device List. Selecting a Test
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Resuming From an Error.
Error Codes and Messages
X
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E-2 E-4
E-5 E-6 E-8 E-l2
Appendix F Specifications
CPU and Memory Controllers.
Interfaces ..........................................
Power Supply. Mass Storage Keyboard..
Environmental Requirements
Physical Characteristics.
Glossary
Index
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F-l F-2 F-2 F-3 F-3 F-4 F-4 F-5
xi
xii

Introduction

The Epson® Equity® 386/25 PLUS is a high-performance personal computer which offers exceptional speed and convenience in a compact design. The computer’s 25 MHz 80386 microprocessor makes all your programs run extremely fast, even when supporting multitasking operations.
Your system includes 2MB of internal memory, a built-in ‘VGA
(video graphics array) display adapter, built-in parallel and serial interfaces, an IBM® PS/2™ compatible mouse port, and four
standard option slots (three 16.bit and one B-bit). These
interfaces allow you to connect most of your peripheral devices directly to the computer, so you do not have to install option cards. You can use the option slots to install additional devices, such as a modem or a networking card.
Your computer can support up to three internal drives: either
two diskette drives and one hard disk drive, or one diskette drive
and two hard disk drives.
The Equity 386/25 PLUS offers several other features to
enhance the speed and versatility of your computer:
Memory caching. Portions of your system memory are
copied to a high-speed cache buffer so your computer can access programs and data very quickly.
Shadow RAM. Your system ROM (read-only memory) and video ROM are copied into the computer’s 32-bit RAM
(random access memory) to further accelerate system
performance.
Extended and super-extended VGA modes. The built-in VGA adapter and VGA drivers (included) provide graphics resolutions up to 1024 x 768 in 16 colors or 640 x 480 in
256 colors on compatible VGA monitors.
Introduction 1

Optional Equipment

You can easily upgrade your computer by installing additional
memory and adding optional devices compatible with the IBM Personal Computer, PC XT,™ or PC AT.“’
By adding memory modules to the main system board, you can expand the computer’s memory up to 16MB. Memory modules are efficient because they eliminate the need to use an option slot to add memory to your system. Your computer can also access memory on modules faster than memory on an option card.
You may also want to install a math coprocessor in your computer to speed up calculations in certain application programs. You can add an Intel ® 80387 (25MHz) or a Weitek®3167 (25MHz) math by installing a Weitek dual-coprocessor adapter. Check with your authorized Epson dealer to see which options are available.
coprocessor; or you can add both

Operating Systems and Other Software

You probably have a version of MS-DOS@’ to use with your computer. Epson has enhanced MS-DOS by adding two time­saving utilities-HELP and MENU-that make it easier to use. The HELP program lets you display information on the screen about any MS-DOS command. MENU provides an easy way to run many of these commands.
2 Introduction
You can use virtually any application program designed for the
IBM PC, PC XT, PC AT, or compatible computers on your
Equity 386/25 PLUS. You may also use powerful 32-bit
software-such as Microsoft Windows/386™-with your
computer.

VGA Utilities

Epson has provided special VGA utilities and device drivers
that you can use with certain standard VGA monitors and
multi-frequency monitors. Using these drivers, you can take
advantage of extended and super-extended VGA features such
as 16-color graphics mode resolutions up to 1024 x 768,256-color
resolutions up to 640 x 480, and 132-column text mode.

How to Use This Manual

This manual explains how to set up and operate your
computer, install options, and run diagnostics checks. Although the illustrations show a computer with a 5¼-inch diskette drive, instructions are included for using a 3½-inch drive.
You do not need to read everything in this book; see the following chapter summaries.
Chapter 1 provides simple step-by-step instructions for setting up your system. On the back cover foldout are illustrations showing the different parts of your computer; refer to these as you set up your system.
Introduction 3
Chapter 2 describes how to run the Setup program to define your computer’s configuration. Do this before you use your computer. You may need to do it again later if you change the configuration.
Chapter 3 provides instructions for important operating procedures, such as using and caring for disks and disk drives.
Chapter 4 describes specialized features you can use to enhance your system’s performance.
Chapter 5 describes some of the options you can use in your computer and contains instructions for removing the cover, setting jumpers, and installing options.
Appendix A provides instructions for using the VGA device drivers and utilities.
Appendix B explains how to install and remove a hard disk or diskette drive.
Appendix C describes how to perform a hardware-level format on a hard disk. You need to do this only if you have installed a new hard disk that has never received this type of low-level format, or if you are having serious problems with the disk.
Appendix D contains troubleshooting tips.
Appendix E outlines the system diagnostics checks. If you are having trouble with any part of the hardware, you may want to run some of these.
Appendix F gives the technical specifications for the computer.
At the end of the manual, you’ll find a glossary and an index.
4 Introduction

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. Epson America provides product information and support to its dealers and Customer Care Centers.
Therefore, we ask that you contact the business where you purchased your Epson product to request assistance. If the people there do not have the answer to your question, they can obtain it through our toll-free dealer support program. Epson is confident that this policy will provide you with the assistance you need.
Call the Epson Consumer Information Center at (213) 782-2600 for the following:
Your nearest Epson dealer
The nearest Customer Care Center.
To locate or purchase accessories or supplies, contact your nearest Epson dealer.
6 lntroduction
Chapter
1
Setting Up Your System
Setting up your Equity 386/25 PLUS personal computer is easy.
Just follow the eight steps in this chapter. As you set up your
computer, you may want to leave this manual’s back cover foldout open so you can refer to the illustrations identifying the different parts.

Choosing a Location

1
Setting Up Your System
1-1
Before you set up your computer, it’s important to choose a safe, convenient location that provides the following:
A large, sturdy desk or table. The surface should be strong
enough to support the weight of your system and all of its
components. Select a location that allows plenty of space so you can work comfortably.
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. Soft surfaces also prevent proper ventilation.
Good air circulation. Air must be able to move freely under
the system and behind it. Leave several inches of space
around the computer. Moderate environmental conditions. Protect your computer
from extremes in temperature, humidity, dust, and smoke. Avoid direct sunlight or any other source of heat. High humidity also hinders operation, so select a cool, dry area.
Appropriate power sources. To prevent static charges,
connect all your equipment to three-prong, 120-volt
grounded outlets. You need one outlet for the computer, one
for the monitor, and additional outlets for a printer and any
other peripherals.
No electromagnetic interference. Locate your system away
from any electrical device, such as a telephone, which generates an electromagnetic field.
Setting Up Your System
1-2
Removing the Protector Card
2
If you have a 5¼-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, flip the latch up to pop the card out part way, then pull it out, as shown below.
(If you have a second 5¼-inch diskette drive, be sure to remove
the protector card from that drive as well.) Save the protector card. If you transport your computer, you may
want to insert the card into your diskette drive prior to shipping. This will protect the read/write heads during the shipping process.
Setting Up Your System
1-3

Connecting a Monitor

3
The procedure you use to connect your monitor to the computer depends on the type of monitor you have. If you have a VGA monitor (or a multi-frequency monitor with an analog connector), you can connect it to the computer’s built-in VGA port. See “Using the VGA Interface” below. If you have any other type of monitor, see “Using a Display Adapter Card”
below.

Using the VGA Interface

Follow these steps to connect your VGA monitor to the VGA port on the computer:
1.
Make sure your monitor is turned off.
2.
Place your monitor on top of or near the computer. For easy access, turn the monitor and computer around so the backs
of both components are facing you.
3.
If necessary, connect the monitor cable to the monitor. (Your monitor may have a permanently attached cable.)
Setting Up Your System
1-4
4.
Examine the connector end of the monitor cable, and position the plug to match the orientation of the monitor interface (marked with a monitor icon). Then insert the plug into the port (the connector should fit in easily when
properly oriented), as shown below.
To avoid damaging the connector, take care not to bend the pins when inserting the plug.
5.
If the connector has retaining screws, tighten them by hand
or with a screwdriver, depending on the screw type.
Setting Up Your System
1-5
6.
Plug the monitor power cord into the monitor’s power inlet, as shown below.
7.
Plug the other end of the power cord into an electrical outlet.
l-6
Setting Up Your System

Using a Display Adapter Card

If you are using a non-VGA monitor, you’ll need to install a display adapter (video) card in one of the computer’s option slots before you can connect the monitor. (Your dealer may have
already installed the video card for you.)
If the video card has not yet been installed, you’ll need to follow the step-by-step instructions in Chapter 5 to install an option card. But first, check the following table to make sure your display adapter card and monitor are properly matched.
Monitor/video card compatibility
Monitor
Monochrome
Color or EGA
* Color monitors do not support EGA cards.
Video card
Monochrome display adapter (MDA) Multi-mode graphics adapter (MGA) Enhanced graphics adapter (EGA) Hercules® graphics card
Color graphics adapter (CGA)
Multi-mode graphics adapter (MGA) Enhanced graphics adapter (EGA)
When you are installing the video card, check to make sure any switches or jumpers on the card are set properly. For example, you may need to change a switch setting to select color or monochrome. See the documentation that came with your monitor or video card for instructions.
Setting Up Your System
1-7
Once you have installed your video card, return to this section
to connect your monitor to the computer. If your monitor came with its own manual, follow the instructions there. Otherwise, you can follow the steps in “Using the VGA Interface” above; just insert your monitor connector into the video card port
instead of the built-in VGA port.
Connecting a Printer or Other Device
4
Your computer has both parallel and serial interfaces. To connect a printer or other peripheral device to one of these
interfaces, follow the instructions below. Of course, Epson offers
a full range of printers; ask your dealer for more information.

Using the Parallel Interface

The parallel interface on your computer is Centronics® compatible and uses a DB-25S connector.
To connect your printer and computer, you need an IBM
compatible printer cable. If you are not sure which one you need, check with your Epson dealer.
1-8
Setting Up Your System
Once you have the correct printer cable, follow these steps:
1.
Place the printer next to the computer with the back panels of both components facing you.
2.
One end of the printer cable has a 25pin, D-shell connector. Position the plug to match the orientation of the parallel interface (marked with a special icon). Then
insert the connector into the port, as shown below. If the plug has retaining screws, tighten them by hand or with a screwdriver, depending on the screw type.
Setting Up Your System
1-9
3.
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.
1-10
4.
Plug the printer’s power cord into a three-prong, 120-volt, grounded electrical outlet.
Setting Up Your System
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