Epson ActionPC 5500 User Manual

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.

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. 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. EPSON Connection is a service mark of Epson America, Inc. General notice: Other product names used herein are for identification purposes only and

may be trademarks of their respective owners. EPSON disclaims any and all rights in those marks.

The Energy Star emblem does not represent EPA endorsement of any product or service.

8/95

Important Safety Instructions

Read all of these instructions and save them for later reference. Follow all warnings and instructions marked on the computer.

Unplug the computer before cleaning. Clean with a damp cloth only. Do not spill liquid on the computer.

Do not place the computer on an unstable surface or near a radiator or heat register.

Do not block or cover the openings in the computer’s cabinet. Do not insert objects through the slots.

Use only the type of power source indicated on the computer’s label. Connect all equipment to properly grounded power outlets. Avoid

using outlets on the same circuit as photocopiers or air control systems that regularly switch on and off.

Do not let the computer’s power cord become damaged or frayed. If you use an extension cord with the computer, make sure it has a

3-prong plug. Also make sure the total Amp rating of the devices plugged into the extension cord does not exceed the cords Amp rating. Make sure the total of all devices plugged into the wall outlet does not exceed 15 Amps.

Except as specifically explained in this User’s Guide, do not attempt to service the computer yourself.

Unplug the computer and refer servicing to qualified service personnel under the following conditions:

If the power cord or plug is damaged; if liquid has entered the computer; if the computer has been dropped or the cabinet damaged; if the computer does not operate normally or exhibits a distinct change in performance. Adjust only those controls that are covered by the operating instructions.

If you plan to use the computer in Germany, observe the following: To provide adequate short-circuit protection and over-current

protection for this computer, the building installation must be protected by a 16 Amp circuit breaker.

iii

Importances instructions de sécurité

Lire attentivement les instructions suivantes et les conserver pour les consulter en cas de besoin. Observer soigneusement tous les avertissements et directives marqués sur l’ordinateur.

Débrancher l'ordinateur avant de le nettoyer. N'utiliser qu’un chiffon

humide. Veiller à ne pas renverser de liquides sur l’appareil.

Ne pas placer l’ordinateur sur une surface instable ni près d'une

source de chaleur.

Ne pas bloquer ni couvrir les orifices d' aération de l’appareil. Ne pas

introduire d'objets dans les overtures.

Utiliser seulement le type de source d'alimentation électrique indiqué

sur l’étiquette.

Tout l’équipement doit être branché sur des prises de courant avec

contact de terre. Ne jamais utiliser une prise sur le même circuit qu’un appareil à photocopies ou un système de contrôle de ventilation avec commutation marche-arrêt automatique.

S'assurer que le cordon d'alimentation de l’ordinateur n’est pas

abîmé ni effiloché.

Dans le cas où on utilise un cordon de rallonge avec l’ordinateur,

s’assurer que l’intensité en ampères requise pour tous les appareils branchés sur ce cordon ne soit pas supérieure à la capacité du cordon. S'assurer aussi que cette intensité ne dépasse jamais la somme de 15 ampères pour l’ensemble des appareils.

Sauf dans les cas spécifiques expliqués dans ce manuel de l’usager,

ne pas essayer d'entretenir ou de réparer l’ordinateur soi-même.

Débrancher l’ordinateur et contacter un technician qualifié dans les

circonstances suivantes: Si le cordon ou la prise sent abîmés; si un liquide a pénétré à

l’intérieur de l’appareil; si on a laissé tomber l’appareil ou si le boîtier est endommagé; si l’ordinateur ne fonctionne pas normalement ou fonctionne dune maniére très différente de l’ordinaire. N’ajuster que les commandes décrites clans les directives.

Pour utiliser l’ordinateur en Allemagne, il est nécessaire que le

bâtiment soit muni d'un disjoncteur de 16 ampères pour protéger l’ordinateur contre les courts-circuits et le survoltage.

Wichtige Sicherheitshinweise

Bitte lesen Sie diese Sicherheitshinweise, und heben Sie sie zur späteren Verwendung auf. Beachten Sie alle Warnungen und Anweisungen, die auf dem Computer angebracht sind.

Ziehen Sie das Netzkabel des Computers vor der Reinigung heraus. Verwenden Sie zur Reinigung nur ein feuchtes Tuch. Achten Sie darauf, daß keine Flüssigkeiten auf dem Computer verschüttet werden.

Stellen Sie den Computer nur auf einer stabilen Arbeitsfläche auf, und halten Sie ihn von Heizkörpern und Warmluftquellen fern.

Achten Sie darauf, daß die Öffnungen im Computergehäuse nicht blockiert oder verdeckt werden. Führen Sie keine Fremdkörper in die Lüftungsschlitze ein.

Verwenden Sie nur die auf dem Typenschild des Computers angegebene Stromversorgung.

Schließen Sie alle Geräte an ordnungsgemäß geerdete Steckdosen an. Verwenden Sie keine Steckdosen, die mit demselben Stromkreis wie Fotokopiergeräte oder Klimaanlagen, die sich regelmäßig ein- und ausschalten, verbunden sind.

Achten Sie darauf, daß das Netzkabel des Computers stets in einwandfreiem Zustand ist.

Stellen Sie bei Verwendung eines Verlängerungskabels sicher, daß der gesamte Amperewert aller an das Verlängerungskabel angeschlossenen Geräte den zulässigen Höchstwert des Kabels nicht überschreitet. Stellen Sie ferner sicher, daß der Gesamtwert aller an die Wandsteckdose angeschlossenen Geräte 15 Ampere nicht überschreitet.

Führen Sie keine Wartungsarbeiten am Computer durch, die über das im

Benutzerhandbuch

beschriebene Ausmaß hinausgehen.

Ziehen Sie den Computer heraus, und rufen Sie qualifiziertes

Wartungspersonal, wenn eine der folgenden Bedingungen auftritt: Das Netzkabel oder der Netzstecker ist beschädigt; Flüssigkeit ist in

den Computer eingetreten; der Computer wurde fallengelassen oder das Gehäuse ist beschädigt; der Computer funktioniert nicht ordnungsgemäß oder die Leistung hat sich merklich geändert. Stellen Sie nur die Bedienelemente ein, die in der Gebrauchsanweisung beschrieben sind.

Nehmen Sie den Computer bei Flugreisen als Handgepäck mit in den

Fluggastraum, damit er nicht in einem drucklosen Frachtraum verstaut wird.

Beachten Sie den folgenden Hinweis, wenn Sie den Computer in

Deutschland in Betrieb nehmen: Beim Anschluß des Computers an die Netzversorgung muß

sichergestellt werden, daß die Gebaudeinstallation mit einem 16 A Überstromschutzschalter abgesichert ist.

Introduction

Your new EPSON® computer is a full powered, full featured system that gives you complete access for all your business or home computer needs. And because your computer is plug and play compliant and designed to take advantage of Microsoft Windows® 95, you’ll be able to use all the latest technology and software.

With the computer’s high-performance processor and memory you can run a vast array of the latest programs, utilities, and games designed for productivity and fun.

Your system’s state-of-the-art PCI (Peripheral Component Interconnect) bus architecture gives you fast and efficient access to both PCI and IDE option cards. It also provides PCI performance for IDE drives and your VGA or high-resolution monitor.

And when you’re ready for even more capability, you can install option cards or additional drives, upgrade your processor, and expand your system and video memory.

Computer Features

Your computer offers the following features:

Upgradable 486-class processors

or 8MB of RAM (Random Access Memory), expandable

to 132MB using SIMMs

PCI-based system board providing PCI caching, memory,

bus control, and video control, as well as EIDE (Enhanced Integrated Drive Electronics) and diskette drive device control

Introduction 1

High-speed, PCI video controller with 32-bit DRAM video interface and 32-bit PCI interface

Two PCI ATA-2 compatible IDE interfaces supporting up to four IDE devices, such as hard disk drives and CD-ROM drives (two on each interface)

8KB of internal cache in the processor 512KB or lMB of onboard video memory for resolutions

from 640 x 480 True Color™ support up to 1280 x 1024 with 16-color support (noninterlaced); memory expandable to 2MB

Three Energy Star compliant power-saving modes for the CPU, video, and hard disk drives in standard configurations

Three 16-bit, ISA (Industry Standard Architecture) option slots and one PCI option slot supporting one PCI bus option card

Space for up to three mass storage devices, two externally accessible and one internal.

Power-saving Feature

In standard configurations, this computer complies with the United States Environmental Protection Agency’s Energy Star Program, which promotes the manufacture of energy-efficient printers, computers, and monitors. Your computer’s power-saving feature places the CPU, video, and hard disk drives in three different power-saving modes when the mouse and keyboard have been inactive for a specified period of time. You can customize the power-saving feature in SETUP.

2 Introduction

ISA and PCI Expansion Buses

Your computer includes expansion buses for two types of option cards: ISA and PCI. The PCI bus provides extremely fast data transfer (33 MHz) for a high-performance PCI card, such as a high-speed video card. PCI cards use plug and play technology that automatically configures resources used by the card, such as interrupt requests and memory addresses.

The ISA bus transfers data at 8.33 MHz for up to three 16-bit ISA option cards. You can use these slots for standard ISA 8-or

16-bit cards such as fax/modem cards, sound cards, and SCSI (Small Computer System Interface) cards.

SVGA Feature Connector

If you install a high-resolution graphics adapter card or a full-motion, multimedia card, you can connect it to the computer’s SVGA (Super Video Graphics Array) feature connector. This allows you to use the adapter’s special graphics features while accessing the standard SVGA signals provided by your main system board.

System and Video BIOS

The computer’s system and video BIOS are contained in a flash memory device on the main system board, which you can upgrade using special software, without replacing the chip.

Your computer supports shadowing of the system and video BIOS to allow BIOS routines to run from fast, 32-bit RAM instead of from the slower ROM devices.

Introduction 3

How to Use This Manual

This manual contains the information you need to get the best results from your computer. You don’t have to read everything; see the following chapter summaries to find the sections you need.

Chapter 1

connecting peripheral devices such as the monitor and printer.

Chapter 2

your computer’s configuration and how to install the PCI IDE drivers.

Chapter 3

your power-saving feature and using a password.

Chapter 4

cover, change jumper settings, and install optional equipment such as option cards, memory modules, and video memory.

Chapter 5

devices.

Chapter 6

Appendix A

At the end of this manual, you’ll find a glossary and an index.

provides instructions for setting up your system and

explains how to run the SETUP program to change

covers general operating procedures, such as using

explains how to remove and replace the computer’s

explains how to install and remove mass storage

contains troubleshooting tips.

lists the specifications of your computer.

4 Introduction

Where to Get Help

If you purchased your computer outside the United States or

Canada, contact your EPSON dealer or the marketing location

nearest you for customer support and service.

If you need help with any software program you are using, see the documentation for that program for technical support information.

Electronic Support Services

If you have a modem, the fastest way to access helpful tips, specifications, drivers, application notes, DIP switch or jumper settings, and bulletins for EPSON products is through the online services below.

EPSON bulletin board service

You can call the EPSON bulletin board service (BBS) 24 hours a

day at (310) 782-4531. No membership is required. Make sure your communications software is set to 8 data bits with no stop bit, 1 parity bit, and a modem speed up to 28.8 Kbps. See the

documentation that came with your communications software

for more information.

CompuServe online support

CompuServe® members can call the Epson America Forum on

CompuServe. If you are already a member, simply type

GO EPSON at the menu prompt to reach the Forum.

Introduction 5

If you are not currently a member, you are eligible for a free introductory membership as an owner of an EPSON product. This membership entitles you to:

An introductory $15 credit on CompuServe

Your own user ID and password

A complimentary subscription to

CompuServe Magazine,

CompuServe’s monthly publication.

To take advantage of this offer, call (800) 848-8199 in the United States and Canada and ask for representative #529. In other countries, call the following U.S. telephone number: (614) 529-1611, or your local CompuServe access number.

6 Introduction

INTRODUCTION

Computer Features . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Power-saving Feature . . . . . . .. . . . . . . . . .

ISA and PCIExpansion Buses . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

SVGA Feature Connector . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

System and Video BIOS . . . . .. . . . . . . . . .

How to Use This Manual . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Where to Get Help . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Electronic Support Services . . . . . . . . .

CHAPTER 1

Choosing a Location . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Setting the Voltage Selector Switch . . . . . . .

Connecting System Components . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Connecting a Keyboard or Mouse . . . . . . .

Connecting a Monitor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Connecting a Parallel or Serial Device . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Connecting the Power Cord . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Turning On the Computer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Turning Off the Computer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

CHAPTER 2

Starting the SETUP Program . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-2

SETUP Function Keys . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-4

Setting Standard Options . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ... 2-4

Setting Advanced Options . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. 2-6

Setting Advanced IDE Drive Options . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-8

Setting Power Management Options . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-9

Setting Options for Peripheral Controllers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-11

Detecting Your Hard Disk Drive . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-12

Selecting SETUP Colors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ... 2-13

SETTING UP YOUR SYSTEM

RUNNING SETUP AND INSTALLING DRIVERS

1 2 3 3 3 4 5 5

1-1 1-2 1-3 1-3 1-4 1-5 1-7 1-8 1-9

vii

Setting System Security . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ... 2-13

Determining a Password Type . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-14

Setting a Password . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ... 2-14

Deleting Your Password . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ... 2-15

Using the Anti-Virus Option. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-15

Using SETUP Defaults . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-16

Exiting SETUP . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. 2-17

Installing System Drivers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-17

Installing the PCI IDE Drivers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-18

Installing Video Drivers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-20

CHAPTER 3

Working Comfortably . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ... 3-1

Backing Up Your Files . . . . .

Using Energy Wisely . . . . . . .

Using Your Power-saving Feature Inserting and Removing Diskettes Stopping a Command or Program

Resetting the Computer . . . . .

Using a Password . . . . . . . . .

Changing the Processor Speed .

USING YOUR COMPUTER

Using the Right Furniture . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-2

Positioning Your Monitor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-3

Lighting Your Workspace . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-4

Using the Keyboard and Mouse. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-4

Maintaining Good Posture and Work Habits . . . . . . . . . 3-5

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

3-6 3-6 3-6 3-8 3-9 3-10 3-11 3-12

CHAPTER 4 INSTALLING AND REMOVING OPTIONS

Removing the Cover . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ... 4-2

Replacing the Cover . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ... 4-4

Locating the Internal Components . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-5

Locating System Board Components . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-6

Changing the Jumper Settings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-7

Setting the Jumpers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ... 4-10

Installing Memory Modules (SIMMs) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-11

Inserting SIMMs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ... 4-13

Removing SIMMs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. 4-15

viii

Installing an Option Card . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-16

Removing an Option Card..... . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ...4-19

Removing the Option Card Connector Board . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-19

Replacing the Option Card Connector Board . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-20

Adding Video Memory . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ... 4-21

Using the SVGA Feature Connector . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-23

Upgrading the Processor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ... 4-24

Post-installation Procedures . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-26

CHAPTER 5

Setting the IDE Device Jumpers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-2

Installing a Hard Disk Drive in the Internal Bay . . . . . . . . . . . 5-3

Installing the Hard Disk Drive . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-3

Connecting the Cables . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ... 5-7

Removing a Hard Disk Drive from the Internal Bay . . . . . . . . 5-10

Installing a Drive in an Externally Accessible Bay . . . . . . . . . . 5-12

Attaching Mounting Frames to the Drive . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-12

Installing the Drive . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ... 5-13

Connecting the Power Cables . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-16

Removing a Drive From an Externally Accessible Bay . . . . . . . 5-20

CHAPTER 6

Identifying Your System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ... 6-2

The Computer Will Not Start . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-3

The Computer Does Not Respond . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-5

Keyboard Problems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ... 6-6

Mouse Problems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. . 6-6

Monitor Problems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ... 6-6

INSTALLING AND REMOVING DRIVES

TROUBLESHOOTING

APPENDIX A

CPU and Memory . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Controllers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Interfaces . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Mass Storage . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Keyboard . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Mouse. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

SETUP Program . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Power Supply . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Option Slot Power Limits . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Physical Characteristics . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Environmental Requirements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Video Resolutions and Colors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Processor Upgrades . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Information for Qualified Hard Disk Drives . . . . . . . . .

DMA Assignments . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Hardware Interrupts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

System MemoryMap . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

System I/O Address Map . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Connector Pin Assignments . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Tested Operating Environments . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Options Available from EPSON . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

SPECIFICATIONS

A-2 A-3 A-4 A-5 A-5

A-5 A-6 A-6 A-6 A-7 A-7 A-8 A-8 A-9 A-10 A-11 A-11 A-12 A-13 A-14 A-14

GLOSSARY

INDEX

Chapter 1

Setting Up Your System

This chapter briefly describes how to set up your computer. It

includes the following information:

Choosing a location Setting the voltage selector switch Connecting system components

Turning the computer on and off.

Choosing a Location

Before you set up your system, choose a convenient location

that provides a flat, hard surface. Do not place your system too close to any electrical device, such as a radio, that generates an electromagnetic field. Protect your computer from extremes in temperature, humidity, dust, and smoke, and avoid direct sunlight and other sources of heat.

Read the “Important Safety Instructions” at the front of this

manual for more information about choosing a suitable

environment for your system. Also read “Working Comfortably” in Chapter 3 for guidelines

on creating a comfortable and safe working environment.

Setting Up Your System

1-1

Setting the Voltage Selector Switch

Your system is powered by a 145 Watt power supply. The power supply input voltage is controlled by a switch on the

computer’s back panel that may be set to 115 VAC or 230 VAC.

The computer is shipped with the voltage selector switch set to

115 VAC, which is appropriate for line source voltages between 100 and 120 VAC. This is generally the correct setting if you use

the computer in North America, South America, or Japan. If you plan to operate the computer in the United Kingdom,

Europe, or some South American countries, you will almost certainly need to reset the voltage selector switch to 230 VAC. Line source voltages between 200 and 240 VAC are acceptable with the switch set to 230 VAC.

Caution

Before you turn on the power to your system, make sure the voltage selector is set appropriately for the electrical power source in your location or you will seriously damage your system.

To change the voltage selector switch setting, insert the tip of a flat screwdriver into the notch on the switch. Slide the switch to the right to select 115 VAC or to the left to select 230 VAC.

1-2

Setting Up Your System

Connecting System Components

Use the illustrations below to locate the ports on the back of your system as you connect the keyboard, monitor, printer, and other devices. The icons on the case identify the function of each port.

Caution

Be sure the power is off before you connect any device to the computer; otherwise you will damage the system board.

Connecting a Keyboard or Mouse

Refer to the illustration above as you connect your keyboard and mouse.

To connect the keyboard, hold the cable connector so the

arrow on the connector faces up. Insert it into the keyboard port, marked with the icon shown at the left.

Setting Up Your System

1-3

To connect the mouse, insert the connector into the computer’s built-in mouse port so the arrow or mark on the connector faces up. The icon for the mouse is shown at the left.

Caution

Although the connectors and ports for the mouse and keyboard are physically identical, they cannot be used interchangeably. Be sure to plug the connectors into the appropriate ports, or you may damage your system.

Your mouse drivers for Windows applications have been installed for you. If you need to install other mouse drivers, see your mouse manual for instructions.

Connecting a Monitor

Refer to the illustration on page 1-3 as you connect your VGA or SVGA monitor to the computer’s built-in monitor port.

Follow these steps to connect your monitor:

1. Place your monitor near the computer. Turn the monitor and computer around so the backs are facing you.

There should be two cables provided with your monitor: the

monitor cable (to connect it to the computer) and the power cable (to connect it to a power source). On most monitors, the monitor cable is permanently attached to the monitor. If your monitor does not have an attached cable, connect the cable to it now.

1-4

Setting Up Your System

Examine the connector on the monitor cable and line it up

with the monitor port on the computer. Then insert the

connector into the port.

This icon identifies the VGA monitor port.

Caution

To avoid damaging the connector, be careful not to bend the pins when you insert it.

If the connector has retaining screws, tighten them.

Plug the monitor’s power cord into the power inlet on the

back of the monitor.

Plug the other end of the power cord into a grounded

electrical outlet or into the power outlet on the back of the computer.

Caution

Before you plug the monitor’s power cord into the back of your computer, make sure the monitor’s power requirements do not exceed 2 Amps at 115 volts and 1 Amp at 220 volts.

Connecting a Parallel or Serial Device

Your computer has one multimode parallel (printer) port and

two serial ports. To connect a printer or other peripheral device, refer to the illustration on page 1-3 as you follow the instructions in this section.

Setting Up Your System

1-5

Using the parallel (printer) port

Follow these steps to connect a parallel device to your computer:

1. Place the parallel device and the computer so that the backs are facing you.

2. Align the connector end of the parallel cable with the printer port and plug it in. If the connector has retaining screws, tighten them.

This icon identifies the printer port.

3. Connect the other end of the cable to the parallel device. To secure the cable, squeeze the clips at each side of the device port and push them into place.

4. Plug the parallel device’s power cord into a grounded electrical outlet.

If you want to take advantage of the port’s extended

capabilities, see “Setting Options for Peripheral Controllers” in Chapter 2.

Note

If you use ECP (Extended Capabilities Port) mode, be sure the parallel device also has ECP capabilities. Check your parallel device software documentation for the correct DMA

channel (DRQ) setting. Then set jumpers JP30 and JP31 to

match this setting. See “Changing the Jumper Settings” in

Chapter 4 for more information.

1-6

Setting Up Your System

Using the serial ports

If you have a printer, a modem, or other device with a serial interface, you can connect it to one of the serial (RS-232C) ports. Make sure you have a cable compatible with a DB-9P connector.

To connect a serial device, insert the connector into

either of the two serial ports, which are marked with the

icons shown at the left.

Connecting the Power Cord

Follow these steps to connect the computer’s power cord:

1. Plug the power cord into the power inlet on the back of the computer.

WARNING

To avoid an electric shock, be sure to plug the cord into the computer before plugging it into the wall outlet.

Plug the other end of the cord into an electrical outlet.

Setting Up Your System

1-7

Turning On the Computer

Once you set up your system, you’re ready to turn on the power. Refer to the illustration below to locate the button and other features on the front panel.

Caution

Before you turn on your system, be sure to read "Important Safety Instructions” at the front of this manual to ensure that you have created a safe working environment.

POWER

Follow these steps to turn on your system:

Turn on the monitor, printer, and any other devices connected to the computer.

Turn on the computer by pressing the right side of the front panel.

1-8

Setting Up Your System

POWER

button on the

The power

(SPEED)

indicator lights up; then the computer performs its power-on diagnostics, which are a series of checks to make sure everything is working correctly.

During diagnostics, if you see a message telling you to

press

Del

to run the SETUP program, ignore this prompt

for now.

You see the first screen of your operating system.

You’re now ready to start enjoying your new system, although you may want to run SETUP to set the time, enable power

saving features, or setup a password. See Chapter 2 for

instructions.

Turning Off the Computer

Whenever you turn off your system, follow these steps:

1. Save your data and exit any application programs. If you are running Windows 95, select Shut Down.

Check the drive lights to make sure they are not on. You can

damage the drive or lose data if you turn off the computer when one of these lights is on.

Remove any diskettes from the diskette drives.

Press the

Turn off the monitor, printer, and any other peripheral

POWER

button to turn off the computer.

devices.

Setting Up Your System

1-9

1-10

Setting Up Your System

Chapter 2

Running SETUP and Installing Drivers

If you reconfigure your system or add options, you must use a configuration program called SETUP, which is contained within your system’s BIOS. SETUP lets you change the settings for your hardware configuration, security options, and power-saving features. The configuration information you enter is stored in the computer’s ROM (read-only memory) and is backed up by a battery, so it is not erased when you turn off or reset your computer.

If you are using Windows 3.1 and need to reconfigure your hard disk drive, you may also need to install video and PCI IDE drivers.

This chapter describes the following SETUP and driver installation procedures:

Starting the SETUP program

Setting standard options Setting advanced options Setting advanced IDE drive options

Setting power management options Setting options for peripheral controllers

Detecting your hard disk drive

Selecting SETUP colors Setting system security Using SETUP defaults

Running SETUP and Installing Drivers 2-1

Exiting SETUP

Installing system drivers.

Starting the SETUP Program

To start the SETUP program, turn on the computer and

Del

immediately press and release the power-on diagnostics and displays the main SETUP screen.

This screen contains four windows from which you can select icons that allow you to perform SETUP functions.

The Setup window lets you configure the following basic and advanced features:

Standard options, such as date and time and drive configurations (see page 2-4)

Advanced options, such as boot options and display types

(see page 2-6)

Advanced Hard Disk Drive options, such as LBA mode and data transfer options for each IDE device (see page 2-8)

key. This interrupts the

2-2

Power Management options, including time-out periods for Doze, Sleep, and Suspend modes (see page 2-9)

Peripheral options that enable on-board controllers and identify the memory address each device uses (see page 2-11).

Running SETUP and Installing Drivers

The Utility window provides the following icons:

Detect Master lets you auto detect the parameters of the

master hard disk drive (see page 2-12)

DetectSlave lets you auto detect parameters for a slave hard

disk drive (see page 2-12)

Color Set lets you choose colors you want to use for your

SETUP utility (see page 2-13).

The Security window contains two icons:

Password lets you setup a password for when you either

start your system or run SETUP (see page 2-13)

Anti-Virus lets you enable virus protection on your system

(see page 2-15).

The Defaults window lets you reset SETUP values for your system according to your needs (see page 2-16).

Running SETUP and Installing Drivers

2-3

SETUP Function Keys

You can use the mouse to click on a selection to highlight it and double-click on a selection to open it. You can also use the keys in the following table to perform

SETUP function keys

SETUP

operations.

Press

Tab Enter Page Up Page Down

Home End

Esc Alt H Alt Space

Move the cursor to the next or previous icon or option setting

Move the cursor to the next window Select the current option or value Go back one page at a time, within a set of data pages Go forward one page at a time, within a set of data pages Go to the first page within a set of data pages Go to the last page within a set of data pages

Return to the previous window

Display a list of keys and their functions

Exit SETUP

Setting Standard Options

When you select the you see the Standard Setup window. Standard Setup lets you

set the system time and date, define the diskette drives, and

view or select the master and slave hard disk drive parameters.

Standard

icon from the Setup window,

2-4

Running SETUP and Installing Drivers

The following table describes Standard options.

Standard Options

Option Settings

Date Time

day, month and date,

year

hh:mm:ss **

Floppy A Not Installed

360 KB

5¼”

1.2 MB

5¼”

KB 3½"

720

1.44 MB 3½”*

2.88 MB 3½”

Floppy B Not Installed *

360 KB

5¼”

1.2 MB

5¼”

KB 3½”

720

1.44 MB 3½”

2.88 MB 3½”

Master Cyl (cylinders) Disk Hd (heads)

WP (write

precompensation

cylinder) LZ (head landing zone) Sec (sectors) Size (storage capacity)

Description

Sets the time and date for the computer’s real-time clock; once

you should not need to

set,

change them, unless you adjust the time for daylight savings or a different time zone (the computer changes the date for leap years)

Defines the type of diskette drive installed as drive A

Defines the type of diskette drive installed as drive B

Displays the parameters read by auto detection for the master hard disk drive; you can override by selecting a different set of parameters or by selecting type 47, which lets you type in your own parameters

Slave Cyl (cylinders) Disk Hd (heads)

WP (write

precompensation

cylinder) LZ (head landing zone) Sec (sectors) Size (storage capacity)

* Default setting ** Set time or date by highlighting an element and clicking the + (plus) to

increase the value or the - (minus) to decrease the value.

Displays the parameters read by auto detection for the slave hard disk drive; you can override by selecting a different set of parameters or by selecting type 47, which allows you to type in your own parameters

Running SETUP and Installing Drivers 2-5

Setting Advanced Options

When you select the Advanced icon from the Setup window, the Advanced Setup window appears. Advanced Setup lets you define parameters such as your video display type, mouse support, and system boot sequence.

The following table describes Advanced options.

Advanced options

Option Settings Description

Quick Boot On * Select on to have the system perform

Typematic Rate Disabled Select the rate (in characters per

System Absent Select Absent to prevent error Keyboard Present * messages when you plan to use your

Primary Display VGA/EGA * Define the type of display you are

PS/2 Mouse Disabled Support Enabled * PS/2 type mouse

System Boot Up Off Select Num Lock On * function to be activated when the

Floppy Drive Disabled * Enable this option to map diskette Swapping Enabled

Off a short set of power-on diagnostics;

select off for the complete power-on diagnostics

15 20 repeated when you hold down a key 30 *

CGA 40x25 using; if you have connected a VGA or CGA 80x25 SVGA monitor to the built-in monitor Monochrome

second) at which characters are

system without a keyboard (as a network server, for instance)

port, Select VGA/EGA

Select Enabled if

you are

Using

on if you want the Num Lock

system starts

drive A to drive B and vice versa; lets you use the lower diskette drive as drive A

2-6 Running SETUP and Installing Drivers

Advanced options (continued)

Option Settings Description

System Boot Up C:, A: Lets you select which drive (A or C) the Sequence A:, C: * system uses to load the operating

system; if it can’t load the operating system from the first drive, it loads it from the second drive

System Boot Up Low Lets you determine the speed of the

CPU Speed High * CPU during system boot

External Cache Disabled * Lets you enable or disable external

Internal Cache Disabled Lets you enable or disable internal

Password Setup * Select Always to enable password Checking Always checking at each system boot; select

Enabled (secondary) cache memory

Enabled * cache memory in the CPU

Setup if you want a password only

when you run SETUP

Video Shadow Disabled Lets you enable or disable video C000, 32K Enabled * memory shadowing; if enabled, the

computer copies the video ROM area from C0000h-C7FFFh to RAM for faster execution

Shadow Disabled * Lets you enable or disable shadowing

C800,16K Enabled of the specified ROM area

Shadow Disabled * Lets you enable or disable shadowing

CC00, 16K Enabled of the specified ROM area

Shadow Disabled * Lets you enable or disable shadowing

D000, 16K Enabled of the specified ROM area

Shadow Disabled * Lets you enable or disable shadowing

D400, 16K Enabled of the specified ROM area

Shadow Disabled * Lets you enable or disable shadowing

D800, 16K Enabled of the specified ROM area

Shadow Disabled * Lets you enable or disable shadowing

DC00, 16K Enabled of the specified ROM area

* Default setting

Running SETUP and Installing Drivers 2-7

Setting Advanced IDE Drive Options

When you select the Adv HDD icon from the Setup window, you see the Advanced HDD Setup window. Advanced HDD Setup lets you define the types of IDE drives that are connected to the primary and secondary IDE interfaces in your system.

The Advanced HDD Setup window displays the parameters that were detected by auto detection. (See “Detecting Your Hard Disk Drive” on page 2-12 for instructions on using the DetectMaster and DetectSlave functions.) You can override these settings by following the steps below.

Note

Before you select any of these options, be sure that your hard drive supports them.

1. If you have more than one IDE hard disk drive, identify the master drive connected to the primary IDE interface.

2. For the primary master drive (IDE Pri. Master), you can select any or all of the options described in the following table.

Option Description

LBA Mode Select if your drive is larger than 528MB and

Block xfer Select if your drive supports multiple sector reads

32 Bit xfer Select if your drive supports data transfer in 32-bit

supports logical block address (LBA) control mode

and writes

units, rather than 16-bit units

3. Repeat steps 1 and 2 for the slave drive (IDE Pri. Slave)

connected to the primary IDE interface, if necessary.

2-8 Running SETUP and Installing Drivers

If you have a drive connected to the secondary IDE interface,

select the Number of HDD/CD in 2nd connector

option.

5. Select one of the following options to correspond to the drives you have connected to the secondary IDE interface.

Option Description

None No devices connected to the secondary IDE

interface

HDD (+CD) One hard disk drive and one CD-ROM drive

IDE CD One CD-ROM drive

2 HDDs Two hard disk drives

6. If you select something other than None, you can enable

the secondary IDE interface (

IDE Sec.

Slave) options. Repeat steps 1 and 2 for each

IDE Sec. Master and

drive.

Setting Power Management Options

When you select the Power Mgmt icon from the Setup window, you see the Power Management Setup window. The options in this window let you control the computer’s power-saving features.

The following table describes the Power Management options.

Power Management options

Option Settings Description

Power Disabled Enables or disables the computer’s Management Enabled * power-saving feature; you must enable Mode Select this option to set the rest of the options

described in this table

Running SETUP and Installing Drivers 2-9

Power Management options (continued)

Option Settings

Doze Mode 15 See* Timeout 30 Sec

1 Min 2 Min 4 Min 8 Min

16 Min 32 Min 64 Min

128 Min 256 Min 512 Mln

Sleep Mode Disable Timeout 2 Min*

4 Min 8 Min

16 Min 32 Min 64 Min

128 Min 256 Min 512 Min

Suspend Mode 2 Min* Timeout 4 Min

8 Min

16 Min 32 Min 64 Min

128 Min 256 Min

Disable 512 Min

Description

Sets the time period of system (CPU) inactivity after which the system enters Doze mode

Sets the time period of system (CPU) inactivity (following the Doze period) after which the system enters Sleep mode; or allows you to disable entry into Sleep mode

Sets the time period of system (CPU) inactivity (following the Doze and Sleep periods) after which the system enters Suspend mode; or allows you to disable entry into Suspend mode

Monitor VGA Disabled *

Activity Enabled

IDE Drive Power Disabled Down Enabled *

Determines whether the system returns to full power when there is monitor activity during any power-saving mode

Determines whether the system shuts down the IDE drives when it enters Sleep mode

2-10 Running SETUP and Installing Drivers

Setting Options for Peripheral Controllers

When you select the Peripheral Setup icon from the Setup window, you see the Peripheral Setup window. Use this window to configure the computer’s integrated peripheral

devices (such as the parallel and serial ports) and controllers. To avoid possible configuration problems, it is a good idea to leave these options at their default settings.

The following table describes the Peripheral options.

Peripheral options

Option Settings

Programming Auto * Mode Manual

OnBoard FDC Enabled *

Disabled

Serial Port 1 Disabled

Serial Port2 Disabled

Parallel Port Disabled

OnBoard PCI Enabled * IDE

3F8H * 3E8H 2E8H

2F8H * 3E8H 2E8H

3BCH 378H * 278H

Disabled

Description

Automatically sets or allows you to set the next four options; if you select Manual, you can choose your own settings for the diskette drive controller, serial ports, and parallel port

Enables or disables the built-in diskette drive controller

Assigns the address for serial port 1; select

Disabled to disable the port

Assigns the address for serial port 2; select

Disabled to disable the port

Assigns the address for the built-in parallel

port; Select Disabled

disable the port

Enables or disables the IDE controller on the system board

Running SETUP and Installing Drivers

2-11

Peripheral options (continued)

Option

Parallel Port Mode

Settings

Normal * Extended

Description

Lets you select normal functioning or extended functioning for the parallel port; you can select the extended mode you want from the Parallel

Extended Mode Option

Parallel Extended Mode

Internal Speaker Sound

* Default setting

Bi-dir EPP Mode

ECP Mode

EPP&ECP

Disabled Enabled *

Selects PS/2 bidirectional mode Selects Enhanced Parallel Port

bidirectional mode

Selects Extended Capabilities Port

bidirectional mode

Selects both EPP and ECP modes

Enables or disables the computer’s internal speaker

Defecting Your Hard Disk Drive

The Utility window lets you run the auto detection function to identify your hard disk drive parameters.

Note

It should not be necessary to run auto detection when you are setting up your preconfigured computer. If you install one or more new hard disk drives, however, you should use auto detection to identify the drive parameters.

2-12 Running SETUP and Installing Drivers

To run auto detection, follow these steps:

1. On the Utility window, select the DetectMaster icon, The SETUP program activates auto detection to examine

your master hard disk drive and record its parameters.

When the process is complete, the system displays the

parameters.

2. Select Yes to accept the parameters or No to reject them.

If you reject them, you can enter your own parameters using the Standard options (see page 2-4).

If you install a slave disk drive, perform steps 1 and 2 using

the Detect Slave icon.

Selecting SETUP Colors

The Utility window also lets you choose background colors for the SETUP program. If you want to change the color scheme of the SETUP windows, select the Color Set icon and choose the set of colors you want.

Setting System Security

The Security window lets you establish a system password and enable virus protection.

Note

The password you establish through SETUP is not related to

any password you may enter through your operating system.

Running SETUP and Installing Drivers

2-13

Determining a Password Type

You have the option of creating either a system password or a SETUP password.

If you set a system password, the computer prompts you to

enter it each time you turn on or reset the computer.

If you set a SETUP password, the computer prompts you to

enter it each time you run the SETUP program.

Use the Password Checking option (on the Advanced Setup window) to determine the password type. Use the procedure below to set the password.

Setting a Password

Follow these steps to create a password or change your password:

1. Select the Password icon.

Type a password of up to six characters. (You can also click

the characters with the mouse.) Be sure to write the password down and keep it in a secure place, in case you forget it.

If you are changing your password, you must type the current password.

3. Press Enter or select the Enter button on the screen.

At the confirmation prompt, retype the password and press

Enter.

2-14 Running SETUP and Installing Drivers

After you enter the same password a second time, you see the following message:

Password is Enabled

5. Press Enter or select OK.

If you forget your password, see “Password Problems” in Chapter 6.

Deleting Your Password

To delete your password, follow these steps:

1. Select the Password icon,

2. Type your current password and press

When the Password window appears, press Enter.

Enter.

4. Press Enter again to confirm the deletion. The following message appears:

Password is Disabled

5. Press Enter or select OK.

The next time you start your computer, you will not be prompted to enter a password.

Using the Anti-Virus Option

If you enable the anti-virus feature, the system displays a warning when any program (or virus) issues a Disk Format command or attempts to write to the boot sector of the hard

disk drive.

Running SETUP and Installing Drivers

2-15

To enable the anti-virus feature, follow these steps:

1. Select the Anti-Virus icon.

2. Select Enabled. The system displays the following message when it detects an

attempt to format any cylinder, head, or sector of any hard disk drive:

Format ! ! Possible VIRUS: Continue (Y/N) ?

The system displays the following message when it detects an attempt to write to the boot sector of the hard disk drive.

Boot Sector Write ! ! ! Possible VIRUS: Continue (Y/N) ?

If you do not intend to format the hard disk drive or write to the boot sector, enter

to prevent the introduction of a

computer virus.

Using SETUP Defaults

Use the options in the Default window to reset all the SETUP values to one of the following sets of defaults:

Original—Returns to the original, factory-installed values.

Optimal—Loads the values that should optimize system

performance. (If CMOS RAM is corrupted, the optimal settings are loaded automatically.)

Fail- saf e—Loads the most conservative values to

produce the most stability. Use this option as a diagnostic aid if the system behaves erratically.

2-16 Running SETUP and Installing Drivers

When you select one of these icons from the Default window, a prompt asks you whether or not to load the selected set of values. Select Yes to load the selected values or No to keep your current values.

Exiting SETUP

To leave SETUP, press corner of the main SETUP screen. You see the following choices:

Save changes and Exit

Do not save changes and Exit

Continue.

If you do not want to save the changes you made during this SETUP session, select Do not save changes and Exit. If you want to return to SETUP to make more changes, select Continue.

Esc

or select the button in the upper left

Installing System Drivers

If you are using Windows 95, you don’t need any additional drivers—they are included with the operating system. If you have Windows 3.1, your system has the drivers already installed. The only time you might need to re-install drivers from the drivers diskettes is if you are using Windows 3.1 and have to reconfigure your hard disk drive or if you use an operating system other than Windows. The following sections describe how to install these drivers.

Running SETUP and Installing Drivers 2-17

Installing the PCI IDE Drivers

PCI IDE drivers let you take advantage of the high-speed performance available through your system’s IDE interfaces for hard disk drives and other IDE devices.

The PCI IDE Drivers diskette contains drivers for these programs:

MS-DOS

Windows 3.1

OS/2

versions 2.0 and higher (2.X)

Novell

NetWare versions 3.1 and higher (3.1X)

Novell NetWare versions 4.0 and higher (4.0X).

Note

Windows must be installed on your system before you install the Windows drivers.

Before installing the drivers

Before you install the PCI IDE drivers, make sure you back up your hard disk drive. Then use the installation program on the PCI IDE Drivers diskette to install the drivers.

Note

Make sure you use the installation program to install the PCI IDE drivers. If you simply copy the driver files, they won’t work correctly.

2-18 Running SETUP and Installing Drivers

The driver files for each of the programs listed above are in their own directory on the diskette. Log onto the directory for each driver you want to install and print out the README file. Read the information in these files for additional instructions on installing and using the PCI IDE drivers.

Running the installation program

Follow these steps to install the PCI IDE drivers:

Note

If you are using Windows 95, do not install these drivers.

1. Insert the PCI IDE Drivers diskette in drive A.

2. Access the MS-DOS prompt, if you are not there already.

3. Type A:

and press

Enter

to log onto drive A.

4. Type INSTALL4 and press Enter.

Follow the instructions on the screen to install the PCI IDE

drivers on your hard disk.

Note

Not all hard disk drives can take full advantage of the PCI IDE interface. To take advantage of this feature, your hard disk drive must support the ATA-2 standard and a 32-bit data path. If you need information on your hard disk drive, see the hardware specifications for the drive or contact the drive manufacturer and request a product specification.

Running SETUP and Installing Drivers 2-19

Installing Video Drivers

If you are using Windows 3.1, these video drivers let you take full advantage of the performance your computer’s built-in SVGA controller can offer. You do not need these drivers if you are using Windows 95.

If you want to install video drivers for popular MS-DOS-based applications, the Video Drivers diskettes include utilities and video drivers. For instructions on installing them, see the README file included on the Video Drivers diskettes.

Note

Be sure that Windows is already installed before you install the video driver for Windows.

To obtain drivers for additional applications or new drivers as they become available, contact the EPSON bulletin board service or access the Epson America Forum on CompuServe.

2-20 Running SETUP and Installing Drivers

Chapter 3

Using Your Computer

This chapter describes the following operations:

Working comfortably Backing up your files

Using energy wisely Using your power-saving feature Inserting and removing diskettes Stopping a command or program Resetting the computer Using a password Changing the processor speed.

Working Comfortably

If you spend a lot of time at your computer, you may experience occasional fatigue or discomfort caused by repetitive motions or too much time spent in one position. If you follow the guidelines in this section, you may avoid these problems and actually increase your productivity.

Using Your Computer

3-1

Take a few minutes to read this section for suggestions about:

Using the right furniture Positioning your monitor Lighting your workspace

Using a keyboard and mouse

Maintaining good posture and work habits.

Using the Right Furniture

Selecting a good desk and using the right type

of chair can make a big difference in your level

of comfort. When you setup your furniture,

consider these suggestions:

An L- or U-shaped desk configuration works well because it provides ample space to hold your computer equipment and work materials while keeping everything within easy reach. A

split-level desk or one with a pull-out keyboard drawer lets

you place the keyboard in a comfortable typing position. Since you’ll usually be sitting when you use your computer, it’s

important to have a good chair. An adjustable chair allows you to support your body in the correct position. Make sure the

chair supports your lower back; the backrest should fit the

curvature of your spine. To reduce fatigue, try to use a chair with adjustable, padded armrests so you can occasionally rest your arms while you work.

Make sure the seat and backrest are wide enough so you can sit in a variety of positions throughout the day. Also leave enough

room under the work surface so you can vary the position of

your legs.

3-2

Using Your Computer

Adjust the height of your chair so when you are using the keyboard or mouse your upper arms are vertical and your forearms and wrists are horizontal. For good circulation, your feet should rest flat on the floor with your lower legs vertical and your knees level with your hips. You may need to use a footrest to maintain the correct alignment for your legs.

Positioning

Place the mon with the top o

Your Monifor

itor so it is directly in front of you

f the screen slightly below eye level when you are sitting at the computer. You may want to place it on top of the computer or on a stand.

Your line of sight to the screen should be about 10 to 20 degrees below the horizontal. If the monitor has a tilt and swivel base, you can adjust the position of the screen for the best viewing angle.

Sit about an arm’s length or more away from the monitor. The most comfortable viewing distance depends on the size of the screen characters and your ability to focus on the display.

Adjust the monitor’s brightness and contrast controls to maximize image clarity, and keep the screen clean.

Try placing any source documents you are using on a copy stand and position the stand next to the screen at the same eye level. This reduces neck strain and makes it easier for your eyes to move back and forth between the document and the screen.

Using YOUr Computer

3-3

Lighting Your Workspace

Appropriate lighting increases your comfort and

productivity, and it’s good for your eyes. Arrange your computer and light sources to minimize glare and bright reflections.

Position the monitor so that any windows in the room face the sides of the monitor, not the front or back. This will help reduce glare.

For working at the computer, indirect or shielded lighting is best, and it should light your entire office equally. Make sure the lighting is not too bright, because this can make your eyes tired from continually readjusting between the relative dimness of the screen and the bright surroundings. You can use window blinds, shades, or drapes to control the amount of daylight in the room or reduce overhead lighting by turning off or dimming the lights.

Here is a simple way you can test your lighting. While looking at the screen, use your hand to shield your eyes from the brightest light source in the room (such as a window or overhead light). If you feel a sense of relief, no matter how small, your current lighting is too bright.

Using the Keyboard and Mouse

Constant use of a keyboard, mouse, or any

pointing device can lead to a variety of aches and

strains. To prevent injury, keep your hands relaxed and rest them frequently,

Try to keep your fingers parallel with your forearms to prevent straining your wrists. Adjust the angle of the keyboard so the slope is no more than 25 degrees. (The keyboard has legs on the bottom which allow you to adjust the angle.)

3-4

Using Your Computer

Keep your hands and fingers relaxed when you are typing and try not to press the keys too hard; using too much force creates tension in your hands. Remove your hands from the keyboard when you are not using it and take frequent breaks to stretch your hands and fingers.

When using a mouse, keep your wrist and fingers relaxed. Let

goof the mouse frequently and stretch or relax your hand. Leave enough space on your work surface so you can freely move the mouse.

Maintaining Good Posture and Work Habits

Here are suggestions to help you stay fit while using your computer. If you form good work

habits, you shouldn’t have to spend too much time thinking

about it!

Work in a relaxed, natural, upright position and let the

chair support you. Your back and neck should be straight

with your shoulders down and relaxed. Keep the elbows

and hips bent at about a 90 degree angle and your forearms and thighs parallel to the floor.

Try to keep your arms in an easy, natural position with your elbows near your body and level with or slightly lower than the keyboard. Your wrists should be straight, not bent, and your hands should rest lightly on the keys or the mouse.

Rest your eyes occasionally by closing them or focusing on

a fixed spot in the distance. Change your sitting position frequently throughout the day

to avoid muscle fatigue. Take periodic breaks; stand up, stretch, and move around.

Using YOUr Computer

3-5

Backing Up Your Files

To protect your data, you should backup your files often. You should also make backup copies of any diskettes that contain programs and store the copies away from your originals.

Using Energy Wisely

By purchasing this low-power, Energy Star

compliant computer, you join a growing number of users concerned about conserving energy. Here are a few additional tips you can use to be even more energy-wise:

If your printer and monitor aren’t Energy Star compliant, turn them off when you’re not using them.

Use the print preview option on your software before you print something. You’ll be able to catch formatting errors before you commit them to paper.

If you have an electronic mail system available to you, send E-mail rather than memos. Not only is this faster, but you’ll save paper and storage space too.

Use recycled paper whenever you can and, if possible, reuse or recycle used paper instead of throwing it away.

Using Your Power-saving Feature

Your computer includes a feature that lowers the power usage of the microprocessor and other components when the system has been inactive for a selected period of time. Using the SETUP program, you can set inactivity timers for three powersaving modes: Doze, Sleep, and Suspend. The three modes provide progressively increased levels of power conservation.

3-6

Using Your Computer

See “Setting Power Management Options” in Chapter 2 for information on setting up these options. The power-saving operations performed by your computer in each of the power-saving modes are summarized in the table below.

Power-saving modes

Mode

Doze

Sleep

Suspend

Power-saving operations

The processor slows down

The processor speed slows further and the monitor screen goes blank (the monitor is placed in a low power consumption mode only if it is Energy Star compliant); also, the hard disk drive shuts down (if you enabled the

The processor clock stops, the contents of system memory are saved, and power to all system components stops

IDE Drive Power Down option)

Note

Some processors do not support power-saving modes; in these cases only the hard disk drive and monitor can take advantage of the power-saving feature.

To resume activity when your system is in a power-saving mode, press a key or move the mouse. If your system was in Doze or Sleep mode, you immediately see an image on the monitor, and you can access your system right away.

Using Your Computer

3-7

If your system was in Suspend mode, it takes a few moments for the monitor to display an image and for the hard disk drive to return to active mode. You’ll hear it start again. It takes a few seconds for the drive to reach its full operating speed and read or write to the disk.

Note

Some hard disk drives do not support power-saving modes. Also, the delay caused by the hard disk drive returning to

active mode may cause errors in some applications. If you

have problems, you may want to disable the IDE Drive

Power Down option in

SETUP.

Inserting and Removing Diskettes

To insert a diskette into a 3.5-inch drive, hold the diskette with the label facing up and the shutter leading into the drive, as shown in the following illustrations. Slide the diskette into the drive until it clicks into place.

3-8

Using YOUr Computer

When you want to remove the diskette, make sure the drive light is off; then press the release button. Remove the diskette and store it properly.

Caution

Never remove a diskette, reset the computer, or turn it off

while a diskette drive light is on. You could lose data. Also,

remove all diskettes before you turn off the computer.

Stopping a Command or Program

You may sometimes need to stop a command or program while it is running. If you want to stop an MS-DOS command or program, try one of the following

Press Pause

Press Ctrl C

Press Ctrl Break.

If you are using another operating system, press

Ctrl Alt Del;

then follow the instructions on your screen. If these methods do not work, you may need to reset the

computer.

Note

Do not turn off the computer to exit a program or stop a

command unless you have to, because the computer clears any data you did not save.

Using YOUr Computer

3-9

Resetting the Computer

Occasionally, you may have to clear the computer’s memory without turning it off. You can do this by resetting the computer.

For example, if an error occurs and the computer does not respond to your keyboard entries, you can reset it to reload your operating system and try again. However, resetting erases any data in memory that you have not saved; so reset only if necessary.

Caution

Do not reset the computer to exit a program. Some programs classify and store new data when you exit them. If you reset the computer without properly exiting a program, you may lose data.

If you are using MS-DOS, you can press

Ctrl Alt Del

system. If you are using another operating system, press

then follow the instructions on your screen.

Del;

If resetting the computer does not correct the problem, you probably need to turn it off and on again. Remove any

diskette(s) from the diskette drive(s). Turn off the computer and wait 20 seconds; then turn on the computer.

3-10

Using Your Computer

to reset the

Ctrl Alt

Using a Password

Using

SETUP,

Password in Chapter 2.) You can also specify whether the password is required when you start the system or only when you start Chapter 2.)

If you entered a password using the Password option in SETUP, and you set Password Checking to Always, you must enter the password every time you turn on or reset the computer.

If you entered a password and set Password Checking to

Setup,

start

When you need to enter your password, you’ll see this prompt:

Enter CURRENT password:

you can define a password. (See “Setting a

SETUP.

(See “Setting Advanced Options” in

you must enter the password only when you

SETUP.

When you type the password and press

Enter,

the computer

loads the operating system (or starts SETUP). If you don’t enter the correct password the first time you type

it, you can try two more times. If you haven’t entered the correct password by the third try, the computer locks up to prevent unauthorized access. You see a flashing happy face on the screen.

If this happens you must reset the computer to start over. See “Resetting the Computer” on page 3-10.

Note

If you want to delete your password, you must run

SETUP

and follow the instructions under “Deleting Your Password" in Chapter 2.

Using Your Computer

3-11

If you do not remember your password, see “Password Problems” in Chapter 6.

Changing the Processor Speed

In MS-DOS, your computer’s processor can operate at two speeds: fast (the highest speed of the processor) and slow (8 MHz). At fast speed, the computer performs all tasks faster. The slow speed is available for compatibility with some older programs or copy-protected programs that have specific timing requirements.

Some of these programs require you to leave a key disk—the diskette that contains the copy protection—in the diskette drive. To use a copy-protected program, you can change the speed to slow to access the diskette and return it to fast speed when you are finished.

From MS-DOS, you can change the processor speed temporarily by entering one of the following commands from the numeric keypad on your keyboard:

To select slow speed, press Ctrl Alt -; the SPEED light turns

off and the system beeps once.

To select fast speed, press

Ctrl Alt +;

the

SPEED

on and the system beeps twice.

Note

You can use the commands listed above while you are

running a program. However, if the program uses one of these commands for another function, you cannot use it to change the processor speed.

The speed setting remains in effect until you reset your computer or turn it off.

3-12

Using Your Computer

light comes

Chapter 4

Installing and Removing Options

You can enhance the performance of your computer by adding optional equipment such as option cards, system modules, and video modules, or by upgrading the processor.

This chapter describes the following

Removing and replacing the computer’s cover Locating internal components Changing the jumper settings Installing and removing SIMMs (single inline memory

modules) Installing and removing option cards Removing and replacing the option card connector board Adding video memory Using the SVGA feature connector Upgrading the processor Performing post-installation procedures.

Caution

Never install options or change jumper settings when the computer is turned on or the power cable is connected.

Installing and Removing Options 4-1

External cache

Your system also supports 128KB or 256KB of external cache memory. If cache memory wasn’t installed for you at the factory and you want to increase your system’s cache memory, contact your Authorized EPSON Servicer for a referral. Do not attempt to install cache chips yourself.

Removing the Cover

You need to remove the computer’s cover to install any of the options described or to install or remove a drive (as described in Chapter 5). Follow these steps:

Turn off the computer and then any peripheral devices. Disconnect the computer’s power cord from the electrical

outlet and from the back panel. Also disconnect any other cables that are connected to the computer, including the keyboard cable.

If the monitor is on top of the computer, lift it off and set it to

one side.

4-2

Turn the computer around so the back panel is facing you.

Installing and Removing Options

Remove the three screws securing the cover, as shown below.

Save the screws to secure the cover again when you finish.

From the front of the computer, grasp the sides of the cover

and pull it straight toward you until it stops, just before it

reaches the front of the computer. Then lift it off at an angle

as shown below.

7. Set the cover aside.

Installing and Removing Options

4 -3

Ground yourself to the computer by touching the metal

surface of the back panel.

WARNING

Be sure to ground yourself by touching the back panel of the

computer every time you remove the cover. If you are not properly grounded, you could generate an electric shock that could damage a component when you touch it.

Replacing the Cover

When you are ready to replace the computer’s cover, refer to the illustrations above and follow these steps:

Make sure all the internal components are installed properly.

Check all cable connections, especially those that might have been loosened during your work. Make sure all cables are out of the way so they do not catch on the cover.

Facing the front of the computer, position the cover so the lip

3. on its bottom edge slides under the guiderails along both

sides of the computer case. See the illustration on page 4-3.

Lower the cover and slide it straight back over the computer until it cannot go any farther.

Replace the three cover retaining screws.

5. Reconnect the computer to the monitor, printer, keyboard,

and any other peripheral devices you have. Then reconnect the power cord to the back of the computer and to an electrical outlet.

4-4 Installing and Removing Options

Locating the Internal Components

As you follow the instructions in this chapter, refer to the illustration below to locate the major components inside your computer.

Installing and Removing Options 4-5

Locating System Board Components

The illustration below shows the system board inside your computer. Use this illustration to locate jumpers and drive connectors.

4-6 Installing and Removing Options

Changing the Jumper Settings

The jumpers on the system board are preset to factory default positions, indicated by an asterisk (*) in the tables below. (See the illustration on page 4-6 to locate jumpers.) Use the information in this section to change jumper settings, if necessary.

Note

Any jumpers not listed in the following tables are for service purposes only. Do not change their settings.

Miscellaneous jumper settings

Jumper

number

JP28

VJP1

VJ3

* Default setting

Jumper

setting

1-2

2-3 *

1-2

2-3 *

1-2*

Open

Function

Clears CMOS memory (resets SETUP values to

factory defaults)

Normal CMOS values

Disables on-board VGA controller Enables on-board VGA controller

Interlaced monitor type Noninterlaced monitor type

Parallel port ECP mode DRQ jumper settings

Function JP30 JP31

DRQ1 (DAK#l)

DRQ3 (DAK#3) 2-3 * 2-3 *

* Default setting

1-2 1-2

Installing and Removing Options 4-7

CPU type jumper settings

4-8 Installing and Removing Options

CPU voltage jumper settings

* Default setting depends on installed processor

Cache jumper settings

CPU clock jumper settings

* Default setting

Installing and Removing Options 4-9

Setting the Jumpers

A jumper’s setting is determined by where the jumper is placed on the pins. For example, if the desired setting is 1-2, you place the jumper over pins 1 and 2. (The artwork on the system board has a notch next to pin 1 on each set of pins.)

The illustration below shows a 3-pin jumper with a 2-3 setting.

Six-pin jumpers are arranged in 2 columns of 3 pins each. The

settings are 1-2, 3-4, and 5-6. Pin 1 is the top left pin. (There is no notch in the artwork for 6-pin jumpers. Use the orientation of the writing on the system board to help you identify the top pins.)

The following illustration shows a 6-pin jumper with a 1-2 setting.

4-10 Installing and Removing Options

To change a jumper setting, follow these steps:

1. Refer to the illustration under “Locating System Board Components” on page 4-6 to locate the jumpers.

2. If any option cards are installed in your computer, you may need to remove them to access the jumpers. See

“Removing an Option Card" on page 4-19 for instructions.

Change the jumper settings as needed. To move a jumper

from one position to another, use needle-nose pliers or tweezers to pull it off its pins and gently move it to the desired position.

Caution

Be careful not to bend the jumper pins or damage any

components on the system board.

4. Replace any option cards you removed, if necessary.

See “Installing an Option Card” on page 4-16 for instructions.

Replace the computer’s cover as described under “Replacing

the Cover” on page 4-4.

Installing Memory Modules (SIMMs)

In addition to 4MB of on-board RAM, your computer may have

4MB of memory on a SIMM (single inline memory module). By

installing additional SIMMs, you can increase the amount of

memory in your computer up to 132MB.

There are two SIMM sockets on the system board (illustrated on page 4-6). You can install a lMB, 2MB, 4MB, 8MB, 16MB, 32MB, or 64MB SIMM in each socket.

Installing and Removing Options 4-11

The following table shows the recommended SIMM configurations. Do not install SIMMs in any other configuration.

SIMM configurations

* If you install SIMMs in both Bank 0 and Bank 1, SIMM types must match,

Use only tin-plated, 32-bit, 72-pin, fast-page mode SIMMs that operate at an access speed of 70ns or faster. Be sure all the SIMMs operate at the same speed.

Your SIMM sockets may not look exactly like the ones in the illustrations. If you’re not sure how to install SIMMs, contact your Authorized EPSON Servicer for assistance.

4-12 Installing and Removing Options

Inserting SIMMs

Make sure the computer is turned off and the cover is off. Then follow these steps to install SIMMs:

1. Refer to the illustration under “Locating the Internal

Components” on page 4-5 to locate the SIMM sockets.

2. Remove any option cards that may be blocking your access to the SIMM sockets. (See “Removing an Option Card on page 4-19 for instructions.)

Position the SIMM at an angle over the empty socket,

making sure the notch on the SIMM is toward the rear of the computer.

Installing and Removing Options 4-13

4. Push the SIMM into the socket until it is seated firmly in the slot. Then tilt it upright, as shown below, guiding the hole at each end of the SIMM over the retaining post at each end

of the SIMM socket. If it does not go in smoothly, do not force it; pull it all the way out and try again.

Replace any option cards you removed. (See “Installing an

Option Card on page 4-16 for instructions.)

Replace the computer’s cover as described under “Replacing

the Cover” on page 4-4. Then see “Post-installation Procedures” on page 4-26 for instructions on configuring your computer with your new memory size.

4-14 Installing and Removing Options

Removing SIMMs

If you need to remove SIMMs from your computer (to install different ones, for example), follow the steps below:

1. Use the illustration under “Locating the Internal Components” on page 4-5 to locate the SIMM sockets in the corner of the system board.

2. Remove any option cards that may be blocking your access to the SIMM sockets. (See “Removing an Option Card on page 4-19 for instructions.)

Use your fingers or a small screwdriver to carefully pull

away the tabs that secure the SIMM at each end, as shown

below. The SIMM falls to the side; remove it from the

socket.

4. Replace any option cards you removed, as described under

“Installing an Option Card" below.

Replace the computer’s cover as described under “Replacing

the Cover” on page 4-4. Then see “Post-installation Procedures” on page 4-26 for instructions on configuring your computer with your new memory size.

Installing and Removing Options

4-15

Installing an Option Card

This section explains how to install option cards in your computer. Your computer has four option slots; the three large slots are ISA compatible, and the smaller slot is PCI compatible.

Follow these guidelines when installing option cards:

Make sure you know whether the card you are installing is an ISA card or a PCI card, so you can install it in the correct type of slot.

If you have an 8-bit ISA card, you can install it in a 16-bit ISA slot, as long as it fits.

Check the components on your card and the system board before deciding which slot to use. Make sure that no

components are touching or obstructing other cards or cables.

When you unpack the option card, do not touch the

components on the circuit board or the gold-edged

connectors. Place the card gently on top of its original packing material with the component side facing up. Keep the packing materials in case you remove it later.

Adjust any switches or jumpers on the card, if necessary, before you install it. (See the option card instructions.) Also, to see if you need to change any jumpers on the system board, check the tables on page 4-7.

4-16 Installing and Removing Options

If you are installing a high-resolution graphics adapter card, follow the instructions below to install the adapter card; then see “Using the SVGA Feature Connector” on page 4-23 to connect the card to the SVGA feature

connector on the system board.

Caution

Before you install any option cards in your system, make sure that all the cards together do not draw more current than the limits listed in Appendix A.

Follow these steps to install an option card:

1. Remove the retaining screw securing the option slot cover to the computer, as shown below. (Keep the screw to secure

the option card to the computer.)

2. Slide out the slot cover and set it aside. (Store it in a safe place in case you remove the option card later.)

Installing and Removing Options

4-17

Hold the card along the top corners and guide it toward the

slot, as shown below.

Once the connectors reach the slot, push the card in firmly (but carefully) to insert it fully. You should feel the card fit into place. If it does not go in smoothly, do not force it; pull the card all the way out and try again.

4. Secure the end of the card to the computer with the retaining screw.

Replace the computer’s cover as described under “Replacing

the Cover” on page 4-4. Then see “Post-installation Procedures” on page 4-26 for instructions on configuring your computer with your new option card.

4-18

Installing and Removing Options

Removing an Option Card

You may need to remove an option card if you no longer need it or if you need to access components on the system board. Refer to the illustrations under “Installing an Option Card on page 4-16 as you follow these steps:

1. Remove the retaining screw securing the option card to the computer. Then pull the card straight out of the slot.

2. Set the card aside with the component side facing up.

If you are not installing another option card, replace the

option slot cover and retaining screw.

4. Replace the computer’s cover as described under “Replacing

the Cover” on page 4-4. Then see “Post-installation Procedures” on page 4-26 for instructions on configuring your computer without the option card.

Removing the Option Card Connector Board

You may want to remove the option card connector board to access certain components on the system board, such as the drive connectors. Follow these steps:

1. Remove any option cards. (See the instructions in the

previous section.)

Installing and Removing Options 4-19

2. Remove the retaining screw securing the bracket on the option card connector board to the power supply.

Pull the board straight up and out of its socket and set it

aside.

Replacing the Option Card Connector Board

When you are ready to replace the option card connector board, refer to the illustration in the previous section as you follow these steps:

1. Position the board above its slot and then firmly push it straight in.

4-20 Installing and Removing Options

2. Secure the board to the power supply with its retaining screw.

Now you can re-install any option cards you removed. See page 4-16 for instructions.

Adding Video Memory

Your computer comes with 512KB or lMB of video memory. You can increase your video memory up to 2MB by installing additional 512KB, 40-pin, SOJ flat pack, video DRAM chips. Additional video memory is useful for running graphics-intensive applications or for supporting high resolutions with many colors.

Note that your video memory sockets may not look exactly like the ones in the illustration. If you’re not sure how to install video memory chips, contact your Authorized EPSON Servicer for assistance.

Follow these steps to install video memory:

1. Locate the video memory sockets, shown in “Locating the

Internal Components” on page 4-5.

2. If there is an option card in your way, remove it. See

“Removing an Option Card" on page 4-19 for instructions.

Caution

To avoid generating static electricity and damaging the memory chips, ground yourself by touching the metal surface on the inside of the computer’s back panel. Then remain as stationary as possible while you install them.

Installing and Removing Options 4-21

Position the chip over the socket and align the notch in the

chip’s corner with the notch in the corner of the socket, as shown below.

4. Gently press the chip into the socket; then push down firmly on both ends to make sure it is well-seated.

Repeat steps 3 and 4 to install another chip.

Replace any option cards you removed; see “Installing an

Option Card on page 4-16 for instructions.

7. Replace the computer’s cover as described under “Replacing the Cover” on page 4-4. Then see “Post-installation Procedures” on page 4-26 for instructions on configuring your computer with the increased video memory.

4-22 Installing and Removing Options

Using the SVGA Feature Connector

Your computer includes an alternate SVGA interface (feature connector) on the system board. If you install a high-resolution graphics or full-motion, multimedia adapter card in one of the computer’s option slots, this connector allows you to access the standard SVGA signals provided by your system circuitry.

To connect the adapter card interface to the SVGA feature connector on your system board, locate the SVGA feature cable included with your option card. Then follow these steps:

If you have not already done so, follow the instructions on page 4-16 to install the graphics adapter card in your

computer.

Attach one end of the feature cable to the alternate SVGA interface on the system board, as shown below. Align the

cable so the red wire along one edge is closest to pin 1 on

the connector.

Connect the other end of the cable to the appropriate interface on the adapter card. (Check your graphics card manual for instructions.)

Installing and Removing Options 4-23

Upgrading the Processor

You can upgrade your processor with a faster one to improve system performance; see Appendix A for a list of compatible processors.

If you’re not sure how to install a processor, contact your Authorized EPSON Servicer for assistance.

Follow these steps to replace a processor:

1. Use the illustration under “Locating System Board Components” on page 4-6 to locate the processor on the system board. The processor is installed in a ZIF (Zero

Insertion Force) socket.

Caution

Make sure you ground yourself by touching the metal

surface on the inside of the computer’s back panel before you touch the processor. Then remain as stationary as possible while you install it. Do not touch the pins on the processor; handle it only by the edges.

2. If there are any option cards in your way, remove them. See “Removing an Option Card" on page 4-19 for instructions.

To open the socket, locate the handle at the base of the

socket. (The handle rests under a plastic tab. ) Press the handle down and away from the tab; then lift it upright to release the chip from the socket. The illustration under

step 6 shows this handle in the released position.

4. Gently pull the processor straight up and set it aside. (Store the chip in the packaging included with your new processor, in case you need to reinstall it later.)

4-24 Installing and Removing Options

Remove the replacement processor from its package and

inspect the pins. If they are bent, do not install the processor. Contact your vendor for a new one.

Position the processor over the socket, aligning the notched

corner with the extra hole on the socket, as shown below.

Caution

If you install the processor in the wrong orientation, you

may damage it and void your warranty.

7. Make sure the pins in the processor are directly over the holes in the socket. Then gently push the processor straight

into the socket, pressing evenly on all sides. If you are installing a 486 processor rather than an Intel

Pentium™ OverDrive™ processor, you’ll see an extra row of

holes around the outside of the socket.

Installing and Removing Options

4-25

Secure the processor by pressing the ZIF handle back to the

closed position. Change the settings of the jumpers so that they are correct

for the type of processor you installed. (See the “CPU type jumper settings” table on page 4-8.) You may also need to

change the setting of jumpers JP24 and JP25 to match the

processor clock speed. If you installed a processor with a different voltage

(check the table under “Processor Upgrades” in Appendix A), change the settings of the CPU voltage jumper. See the table on page 4-9.

10.

If you are upgrading to a DX, DX2, DX4, or Pentium OverDrive processor, you must also install a heat sink over the processor. Follow the instructions included with the heat sink.

11.

Replace any option cards you removed; see “Installing an Option Card on page 4-16 for instructions.

Replace the computer’s cover as described under “Replacing

12. the Cover” on page 4-4. Then see “Post-installation Procedures” (below) for instructions on configuring your

computer with your new processor.

Post-installation Procedures

After you install or remove options such as memory modules or option cards, you must run SETUP to update the computer’s configuration. See Chapter 2 for instructions.

Additionally, you may need to add some commands to your configuration files. See your operating system documentation and the manual that came with your optional equipment.

4-26 Installing and Removing Options

Chapter 5

Installing and Removing Drives

Your computer can hold up to three drives in two externally

accessible drive bays and one internal drive bay. Your system may have drives installed in one or more of these drive bays. You can remove existing drives and install a variety of devices,

such as hard disk drives, diskette drives, tape drives, CD-ROM

drives, PCMCIA card readers, optical drives, and other mass

storage devices. Although your drive may look different from the ones

illustrated here, you should be able to install it the same way. Some of the steps in this chapter may not apply for the drive you are installing. See the documentation that came with your

drive for more information.

Use the table below to find the information you need to install

your drive.

Install a hard disk drive in the internal drive bay

Remove a drive from the internal drive bay

Install a diskette drive or other device in an externally accessible drive bay

Remove a drive from an externally accessible drive bay

See

Page 5-3

Page 5-10

Page 5-12

Page 5-20

Note

Before you attempt to install or remove a drive, turn off the power and detach the cables. Then follow the instructions under “Removing the Cover” in Chapter 4.

Installing and Removing Drives

5-1

Setting the IDE Device Jumpers

Before you install any IDE device, be sure to check its jumper settings. The jumpers indicate the master and slave configuration of devices connected to both of the IDE interfaces. If you have two hard disk drives, the one that contains your operating system must be configured master, and the other must be configured as the slave.

A table in Appendix A lists the master and slave jumper settings for some high-capacity, IDE hard disk drives. If you need more information, see the documentation that came with your drive or contact the manufacturer. Every type of drive has

a unique jumper

configuration. Do not use settings from one

hard disk drive on a different hard disk drive. If you are installing another type of IDE device, such as an IDE

CD-ROM drive, check the documentation that came with the device for the master and slave jumper settings. You must connect these devices

the secondary IDE interface, as

described in this chapter. Use the primary interface only

connect

IDE hard disk drives.

the

5-2 Installing and Removing Drives

Installing a Hard Disk Drive in the Internal Bay

This section contains instructions for installing a hard disk in the internal drive bay. It includes information on installing the hard disk drive and connecting the cables.

Installing the Hard Disk Drive

To install the hard disk drive, you first need to attach it to the mounting plate in the internal drive bay. Follow these steps:

Remove the screw securing the mounting plate to the externally accessible drive bays and set it aside. Then slide the mounting plate in the direction of the arrow and lift it out.

Installing and Removing Drives 5-3

2. Turn the hard disk drive so the components faceup and the connectors face left. Then place the mounting plate on the

hard disk drive and align the four holes in the plate with the four holes in the drive, as shown below.

The bracket on the mounting plate should be opposite the

drive connectors.

Use the four screws that came with the hard disk drive (or with your computer) to secure the mounting plate to the

drive.

5-4 Installing and Removing Drives

4. Hold the drive so the mounting plate faces the externally accessible drive bays and the connectors face the back of

the computer, as shown below.

The two tabs at the bottom of the mounting plate should be just above the two slots in the computer case.

Installing and Removing Drives

5-5

Lower the tabs into the corresponding slots in the computer

case. Slide the drive in the direction of the arrow, until the hole in the bracket is aligned with the hole on top of the externally accessible drive bays.

Secure the mounting plate with the flathead screw provided.

5-6 Installing and Removing Drives

Connecting the Cables

To connect the hard disk drive to the computer, you need to

connect two cables: the IDE drive ribbon cable and a power supply cable. Follow the steps below to connect the cables:

1. Locate one of the IDE drive ribbon cables that are connected to the IDE interfaces on the system board. They are flat cables with a system board connector on one end and two IDE device connectors on the other end. A red wire runs down one edge of the cable, indicating the side of the connector that corresponds to pin 1.

Note

Be sure to use the primary IDE interface for your hard

disk drive(s); use the secondary IDE interface to connect CD-ROM drives and other IDE devices.

2. Locate one of the two connectors on the free end of the cable.

Installing and Removing Drives

5-7

Identify pin 1 on the drive (you may need to turn it over so you can see the artwork on the circuit board); then position the connector so the red wire is aligned with pin 1.

4. Make sure the holes in the cable connector fit over all the pins in the hard disk drive connector; then push in the connector.

Caution

If you do not correctly align the holes with the pins, you could severely damage your hard disk drive when you push in the cable connector.

5-8 Installing and Removing Drives

Locate

one of the power supply cables that lead from the

power supply. (They have multicolored wires and a plastic

connector on the end.)

6. Position the power supply cable connector so that its notched corners line up with the notched corners of the power supply connector on the hard disk drive.

7. Make sure the holes fit over all the pins, and then push in the connector.

Installing and Removing Drives

5-9

Removing a Hard Disk Drive from the Internal Bay

You may need to remove a hard disk drive for service or replacement.

Caution

Before you remove a hard disk drive, make sure you have

backup copies of all your files and programs.

Follow these steps to remove a hard disk drive from the internal drive bay:

1. Disconnect the IDE drive ribbon cable and power supply cable from the back of the drive, as shown below. Pull the cable connectors straight out from the connectors on the hard disk drive so you do not bend the pins. the cables.

Do not pull on

5-10 Installing and Removing Drives

2. Remove the retaining screw securing the hard disk drive and mounting plate to the externally accessible drive bays.

Then slide the hard disk drive and mounting plate in the

direction of the arrow, shown below, and lift them out of

the computer.

Remove the four screws securing the mounting plate to the

hard disk drive. You can store the mounting plate and its screw or replace it in the computer and secure it with the screw.

4. Wrap the hard disk drive in its original packing materials and store it along with the four screws.

If you have finished installing or removing drives, replace

the computer’s cover, as described in Chapter 4. Then see Chapter 2 for instructions on defining your new drive configuration.

Installing and Removing Drives

5-11

Installing a Drive in an Externally Accessible Bay

This section explains how to install a drive in an externally accessible drive bay. It includes steps for the following procedures:

Attaching the mounting frames to a 3.5-inch drive

Installing the drive

Connecting the cables.

Note

If you are installing a hard disk drive or another IDE device,

be sure its jumper(s) are set correctly for your configuration.

A table in Appendix A lists the master and slave jumper

settings for high-capacity, EPSON-qualified, IDE hard disk drives. If you need more information, see the documentation

that came with your drive or contact the manufacturer.

Attaching Mounting Frames to the Drive

If you are installing a 3.5-inch wide drive, you need to attach mounting frames to it so that the drive fits in a 5.25-inch wide bay. These frames usually come with your drive, but if they

didn’t, you can purchase them from a computer supply store.

1. Make sure you have two mounting frames and four screws.

5-12 Installing and Removing Drives

2. As shown below, place a mounting frame on one side of the drive and align it so the oval holes in the frame are

positioned over the holes in the drive. Then secure the mounting frame to the drive with two screws.

Repeat step 2 to attach a mounting frame to the other side of the drive.

Installing the Drive

Follow these steps to install a drive in an externally accessible drive bay:

1. Locate the two metal guiderails and six screws that came

with the computer.

Installing and Removing Drives

5-13

Attach

one guiderail to each side of the drive (or each mounting frame, if attached), as shown below. The bracket on the guiderail should be opposite the drive connectors. Be sure the guiderails align with each other.

If you are installing a drive in a previously unused bay, you

must remove the plastic faceplate that covers the bay. Turn

the computer’s cover so you can see the back of the faceplate. Then remove the screws securing the faceplate to the inside of the cover and remove the faceplate, as shown

below.

5-14

Installing and Removing Drives

Store the faceplate and screws in a safe place; you may want to install it again later.

4. If you are installing a drive in a previously unused bay, you must remove the metal plate that covers the bay. Remove the two screws securing the plate to the front of the

computer and remove the plate. Store the plate in a safe

place but use the screws in step 7.

Installing and Removing Drives

5-15

Align the guiderails on each side of the drive with the

notches on each side of the drive bay, as shown below.

Slide the drive into the bay as far as it will go.

7. Secure the guiderails to the computer case with the two screws you saved in step 4.

Connecting the Power Cables

Follow these steps to connect the IDE drive ribbon cable and power cable to the drive:

1. Locate the connector at the end of the IDE drive ribbon cable.

Note

Make sure you connect a CD-ROM drive to the

secondary IDE interface; do not use the same cable for a

hard disk drive and a CD-ROM drive.

5-16 Installing and Removing Drives

Epson ActionPC 5500 User Manual

Specifications and Main Features

Frequently Asked Questions

User Manual

Introduction

Computer Features

Power-saving Feature

ISA and PCI Expansion Buses

SVGA Feature Connector

System and Video BIOS

How to Use This Manual

Where to Get Help

Electronic Support Services

Contents

Choosing a Location

Setting the Voltage Selector Switch

Connecting System Components

Connecting a Keyboard or Mouse

Connecting a Monitor

Connecting a Parallel or Serial Device

Connecting the Power Cord

Turning On the Computer

Turning Off the Computer

Starting the SETUP Program

SETUP Function Keys

Setting Standard Options

Setting Advanced Options

Setting Advanced IDE Drive Options

Setting Power Management Options

Setting Options for Peripheral Controllers

Selecting SETUP Colors

Setting System Security

Determining a Password Type

Setting a Password

Deleting Your Password

Using the Anti-Virus Option

Using SETUP Defaults

Exiting SETUP

Installing System Drivers

Installing the PCI IDE Drivers

Installing Video Drivers

Working Comfortably

Using the Right Furniture

Lighting Your Workspace

Using the Keyboard and Mouse

Maintaining Good Posture and Work Habits

Backing Up Your Files

Using Energy Wisely

Using Your Power-saving Feature

Inserting and Removing Diskettes

Stopping a Command or Program

Resetting the Computer

Using a Password

Changing the Processor Speed

Removing the Cover

Replacing the Cover

Locating the Internal Components

Locating System Board Components

Changing the Jumper Settings

Setting the Jumpers

Installing Memory Modules (SIMMs)

Inserting SIMMs

Removing SIMMs

Installing an Option Card

Removing an Option Card

Removing the Option Card Connector Board

Replacing the Option Card Connector Board

Adding Video Memory

Using the SVGA Feature Connector

Upgrading the Processor

Post-installation Procedures

Installing a Hard Disk Drive in the Internal Bay

Installing the Hard Disk Drive

Connecting the Cables

Removing a Hard Disk Drive from the Internal Bay

Installing a Drive in an Externally Accessible Bay

Attaching Mounting Frames to the Drive

Installing the Drive

Connecting the Power Cables