Epson EL 486UC+ User Manual

EPSON
User’s Guide
©
This manual is printed on 50% recycled paper, 10% post-consumer content.
663
Read This First
Before you set up your EPSON® EL 486UC+ computer, read this card for guidelines on how to get started. Also keep it around for future reference because it provides important information about your system and how to get technical assistance when you need it.
Setting Up Your System
Most systems sold by EPSON Direct” are preconfigured; all the hardware and software (such as MS-DOS® and Microsoft® Windows™, is already installed. However, be sure to follow these general procedures when setting up your system:
1.
Install any internal options. If you purchased additional,
optional equipment that goes inside the computer—such as option cards, memory modules, a hard disk, or a diskette drive-you should install these devices first. See Chapters 4 and 5 in your User's
2.
Set up the computer. Follow the steps in Chapter 1 of the
User's
Chapter 2 to run the SETUP program.
Guide to connect your system components and in
Guide for instructions.
3.
Install your Windows applications and other software.
Install any Windows applications and other software programs you plan to use. See the documentation that came with the application programs for instructions.
Note
Be sure to make backup copies of all the diskettes you
use to set up your system and install your software.
1
4.
Install VGA device drivers and utilities. If you have a
monitor that supports resolutions over 640 x 480, you’ll probably want to use some of the VGA device drivers and utilities that came with your computer to enhance the display capabilities of your built-in VGA adapter. Drivers for Windows have been installed on the hard disk. To install additional drivers, see the README file on the Utility diskette for instructions.
Where to Get Help
EPSON provides the following support services through EPSON Direct and the EPSON Connection:“”
Technical assistance with the installation, configuration,
and operation of EPSON products
Assistance in locating your nearest Authorized EPSON
Customer Care Center
Assistance with Extra Care Road Service
Sales of accessories, manuals, or parts for EPSON products
through EPSON Accessories at (800) 873-7766
Customer relations
EPSON technical information library fax service
Product literature on current and new products.
If you need help with any software you are using, see the documentation that came with it for technical support.
EPSON Direct: (800) 374-7300
EPSON Connection: (800) 922-8911
2
CompuServe On-line Support
If you have a modem, the fastest way to access helpful tips, specifications, drivers, application notes, tables for DIP switch or jumper settings, and bulletins for EPSON products is through the Epson America Forum on CompuServe.®
If you are not currently a member of CompuServe, you are eligible for a free introductory membership as an owner of an EPSON product. This membership entitles you to:
0
An introductory $15 credit on CompuServe
0
Your own user ID and password
0
A complimentary subscription to Compu Serve 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.
If you are already a CompuServe member, simply type
GO EPSON at the menu prompt to reach the Epson America
Forum.
3
Important Record lnformation
Take a moment to write down some important information about your system. You can easily refer to this card if you call for assistance.
Computer serial number:
Purchase date: Monitor serial number:
Printer serial number: Otherdevice serial number: Otherdevice serial number: Option cardsinstalled:
Slot I:
Slot 3:
Slot 5:
Slot 2: Slot 4:
MSDOSversion and serial number: Windowsversion and serial number:
Software Version program number
EPSON is a registered trademark of Seiko Epson Corporation. EPSON Direct and EPSON Connection are service marks of Epson America, Inc.
Other product names used herein are for identification purposes only and may be trademarks of their respective companies.
Copyright © 1994 by Epson America, Inc.
Torrance, CA
Serial number
400290100-l
6/94
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 ofmerchantability 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.
COPYRlGHT NOTICE
All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system, or transmitted, in any form or by any means, electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording, or otherwise, without the prior written permission of Epson America, Inc. No patent liability is assumed with respect to the use of information contained herein. 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.
Copyright © 1994 by Epson America, Inc. 400275200-l Torrance, California, USA 6/94
ii
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 the total
ampere rating of the devices plugged into the extension cord does not exceed the cord’s ampere rating. Also, make sure the total of all devices plugged into the wall outlet does not exceed 15 amperes.
Except as specifically explained in this User's Guide, do not attempt to service the computer yourself. Adjust only those controls that are covered by the operating instructions.
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.
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.
Beim AnschluB des Computers an die Netzversorgung muB sichergestellt werden, dab die Gebäudeinstallation mit einem
16 A Überstromschutzschalter abgesichert ist.
iii
Importantes 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 marques sur l’ordinateur.
l Debrancher l’ordinateur avant de le nettoyer. N’utiliser qu’un chiffon
humide. Veiller a ne pas renverser de liquides sur l’appareil.
l Ne pas placer l’ordinateur sur une surface instable ni près dune
source de chaleur.
l Ne pas bloquer ni couvrir les orifices d’aération de l’appareil. Ne pas
introduire d’objets dans les ouvertures.
l Utiliser seulement le type de source d’alimentation électrique indiqué
sur l’etiquette.
l Tout l’equipement doit être branche sur des prises de courant avec
contact de terre. Ne jamais utiliser une prise sur le même circuit qu’un appareil a photocopies ou un systeme de contrôle de ventilation avec commutation marche-arrêt automatique.
l S’assurer que le cordon d’alimentation de l’ordinateur n’est pas
abîmé ni effiloché.
l Dans le cas ou on utilise un cordon de rallonge avec l’ordinateur,
s’assurer que l’intensite en amperes requise pour tous les appareils branches sur ce cordon ne soit pas superieure a la capacite du cordon. S’assurer aussi que cette intenste ne depasse jamais la somme de 15 amperes pour l’ensemble des appareils.
l Sauf dans les cas specifiques expliques dans ce manuel de l’usager,
ne pas essayer d’entretenir ou de reparer l’ordinateur soi-même. N’ajuster que les commandes décrites dans les directives.
l Debrancher l’ordinateur et contacter un technicien qualifié dans les
circonstances suivantes: Si le cordon ou la prise sont abimes; si un liquide a pénétré a
l’interieur de l’appareil; si on a laisse tomber l’appareil ou si le boîtier est endommage; si l’ordinateur ne fonctionne pas normalement ou fonctionne d'une manière tres différente de l’ordinaire.
l Pour utiliser l’ordinateur en Allemagne, il est nécessaire que le
batiment soit muni d’un disjoncteur de 16 amperes pour proteger l’ordinateur contre les courts-circuits et le survoltage.
iv
lntroduction
Your new EPSON® computer offers the following features:
0
Intel® 486SW 25 MHz, 486DW 33 MHz, 486DX2/ 50, or
486DX2/ 66 MHz microprocessor
4MB of internal memory, expandable to 64MB
0
0
System and video BIOS shadow RAM
0
SKI3 of internal processor cache, with support for 64KB,
128KB, or 256KB of external cache
0
512KB of on board video memory, expandable to 1MB
0
Math coprocessor built into the microprocessor on the DX and DX2 systems
Built-in VGA port
0
0
Two built-in serial ports and one built-in parallel port
0
One built-in PSI 2 built-in PS/ 2 compatible mouse port
Three 16-bit, full-length and two 8-bit, half-length ISA
0
option slots (if your system has a DXor DX2 processor,
access to the bottom 16-bit slot may be restricted by the
heat sink/ fan assembly on the processor)
0
Support for up to four storage devices (two externally accessible and two internal)
0
Password security.
TM
compatible keyboard port and one

Introduction 1

Using the built-in interfaces, you can connect most of your peripheral devices directly to the computer, so you do not have to install option cards. You can use the option slots to enhance your system with extra functions such as a modem card, a network controller card, or additional interface ports.
The shadow RAM feature speeds up processing by moving the system and video BIOS into the RAM area of memory.
With the standard 512KB of video RAM, the VGA controller supports standard resolutions up to 640 x 480 in 16 colors and extended resolutions up to 640 x 480 in 256 colors or 1024 x 768 in 16 colors (interlaced or non-interlaced). When you upgrade to 1MB of video RAM, the system supports extended resolutions up to 1024 x 768 in 256 colors.
Your system may have been configured for you. If so, everything you need to get started is already in place. Your hardware configuration options have been set to ensure optimal system performance. The hard disk drive already contains the MS-DOS®operating system and Microsoft@ Windows.TMIn addition, the drivers needed to take advantage of your system’s enhanced video resolutions have been installed for you. Just connect your keyboard, mouse, and monitor and you’re ready to go.

VGA Drivers

Your computer comes with VGA drivers for use with the integrated VGA interface. With these drivers, you can take advantage of the extended VGA features such as high resolutions and 132-column text mode when you run popular application programs. If your system was configured for you, these drivers are already installed. If you need to install them yourself, a README file on your Utility diskette describes how to install the VGA drivers for common application programs.
2 Introduction
OptionaI Equipment
You can easily upgrade your computer by installing additional memory and a wide variety of options, as described below. (Installation instructions are provided in Chapters 4 and 5.)

System Memory

By adding 4MB, SMB, 16MB, and 32MB SIMMs (single inline memory modules) to the main system board, you can expand the computer’s memory up to 64MB.

Cache Memory

You can increase your cache memory to 64KB, 128KB, or 256KB by installing SRAM chips on the main system board. Additional cache allows your system to access frequently used
data faster, improving overall system performance.

Video Memory

You can install video memory chips to increase the video memory to lMB, allowing you to use higher resolutions with
more colors.

Microprocessor

You can upgrade your system with these microprocessors:
486SXJ 33 486DW 33 486DX2150
486DX2166.
Introduction 3

Math Coprocessor

You automatically install a math coprocessor when you upgrade your system with a DX or DX2 microprocessor, because a math coprocessor is built into the 486DX and 486DX2 chips.

Drives

Your system can support up to four mass storage devices, including hard disk drives, diskette drives, a tape drive, a CD-ROM drive, or an optical drive. As your storage needs expand, you can install additional drives. Some restrictions apply however; see Appendix A for more information.

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 in this book; see the following chapter summaries to find the
sections you need.
Chapter 1 provides simple instructions for setting up your
system and connecting peripheral devices such as the monitor and printer.
Chapter 2 describes how to run the SETUP program to define
your computer’s configuration. You may need to do this the first time you use your computer, or later if you change the configuration.
Chapter 3 covers general operating procedures, such as
resetting the computer, using the password, and changing the processor speed.
4 Introduction
Chapter 4 describes how to remove and replace the computer’s
cover, change jumper settings, and install optional equipment such as microprocessor upgrades, option cards, and memory modules.
Chapter 5 explains how to install and remove disk drives. Chapter 6 contains troubleshooting tips.
Appendix A lists the specifications of your computer and the operating environments that have been tested on your system.
At the end of this manual you’ll find an Index and a list of U.S. and international marketing locations.

Conventions Used in This Manual

This manual uses the following conventions in the text:
Introduction 5

Where to Get Help

If you purchased your computer in the United States or Canada, EPSON provides customer support and service through a network of Authorized EPSON Customer Care Centers. EPSON also provides support services through the EPSON Connection.” In the United States, dial (800) 922-8911. In Canada, dial (800) GO-EPSON.
Call the EPSON Connection for the following:
0
Technical assistance with the installation, configuration, and operation of EPSON products
0
Assistance in locating your nearest Authorized EPSON Reseller or Customer Care Center
0
Customer relations
0
EPSON technical information library fax service
0
Product literature on current and new products.
You can purchase accessories, manuals, or parts for EPSON products from EPSON Accessories at (800) 873-7766 (U.S. sales only). In Canada, call (800) GO-EPSON.
When you call for technical assistance, be ready to identify your system and its configuration, and provide any error messages to the support staff. See Chapter 6 for more information.
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. International marketing locations are listed at the end of this manual.
6 Introduction
If you need help with any software application program you are using, see the documentation that came with that program for technical support information.

CompuServe On-line Support

If you have a modem, the fastest way to access helpful tips,
specifications, drivers, application notes, tables for DIP switch or jumper settings, and bulletins for EPSON products is through the Epson America Forum on CompuServe.®
If you are not currently a member of CompuServe, you are eligible for a free introductory membership as an owner of an EPSON product. This membership entitles you to:
0
An introductory $15 credit on CompuServe
0
Your own user ID and password
0
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.
If you are already a CompuServe member, simply type
GO EPSON at the menu prompt to reach the Epson America
Forum.
Introduction 7

Contents

Introduction
VGA Drivers Optional Equipment
System Memory
Cache Memory
Video Memory Microprocessor
Math Coprocessor
Drives........................
How to Use This Manual
Conventions Used in This Manual........................
Where to Get Help
CompuServe On-line Support
Chapter 1
Getting Started
Choosing a Location
Unpacking Your Computer
Connecting Peripheral Devices
Connecting a Keyboard Connecting a Mouse Connecting a Monitor Connecting a Printer or Other Device Connecting the Power Cord
Turning On the Computer
Turning Off the Computer
........................
........................
........................
........................
........................
........................
........................
........................
........................
........................
Setting Up Your-System
........................
........................
........................
........................
........................
..................... .
........................
........................
........................
........................
........................
2 3 3 3 3 3 4 4 4
5
6
7
1-l
l-l l-2
l-3 l-3
1-4
l-4
l-5 l-6 l-7 l-9
Chapter 2
Starting the SETUP Program The System Setup Option
Setting the Time and Date Setting the Video Display Type
Running the SETUP Program
........................
......................
....................
.................
2-2 2-3 2-3 2-4
V
Checking System Memory
Setting the Diskette Drive(s)
The Fixed Disk Setup Option
Defining Your Own Drive Type
The Advanced System Setup Option
Configuring Cache Memory Configuring Memory Shadow
Configuring Chipset Registers Setting the Boot Options The System Security and Anti-Virus Options
Entering or Changing a Password Deleting Passwords
Using the Diskette Access Option The System Summary Option Exiting SETUP Post-SETUP Procedures
................................................
................................................
........................
........................
....................................
........................
........................
........................
........................
.......................
........................
........................
........................
........................
........................
........................
2-4 2-4 2-5 2-5 2-6 2-6 2-6 2-7 2-8 2-9 2-10 2-11 2-11 2-12 2-12 2-13
Chapter 3
Working Comfortably Inserting and Removing Disks
Stopping a Command or Program Resetting the Computer Using a Password
Changing the Processor Speed
Chapter 4
Removing the Cover Replacing the Cover
Locating the Internal 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
Using Your Computer
........................
........................
........................
........................
........................
........................
Installing and Removing Options
........................
........................
........................
........................
........................
........................
........................
........................
........................
........................
........................
3-l 3-2 3-3 3-4 3-5 3-6
4-2 4-4 4-5 4-6 4-8 4-10 4-11 4-12 4-14 4-18 4-18
vi
Replacing the Option Card Connector Board...........
Adding Video Memory
Installing the Video Chips
Installing External Cache
Installing the Cache Chips
Upgrading the Microprocessor
Replacing the Processor Chip
Post-installation Procedures
........................
........................
........................
........................
........................
........................
............................
4-20 4-21 4-21 4-23 4-24 4-26 4-27 4-30
Chapter 5
Installing a Hard Disk Drive in the Internal Drive Bay........
Removing the Mounting Frames
Connecting the Hard Disk Drive Cables Installing the Hard Disk Below the Mounting Bracket Installing the Hard Disk On the Mounting Bracket
Removing a Hard Disk Drive From the Internal Drive Bay Installing a Drive in the Upper External Drive Bay
Connecting the Drive and Power Cables
Removing a Drive from the Upper Drive Bay Reconnecting the Drive and Power Cables to the
Diskette Drive in the Lower Drive Bay
Post-installation Procedures
Chapter 6
Identifying Your System The Computer Will Not Start The Computer Does Not Respond Keyboard Problems Monitor Problems Diskette Problems Diskette Drive Problems Hard Disk Drive Problems Password Problems
Software Problems
Printer Problems
Option Card Problems
Memory Module Problems
lnstalling and Removing Drives
..........................
..........................
......
......
......
...............
...............
.......
...................
..........................
Troubleshooting
5-2 5-3 5-4 5-8 5-11 5-13 5-14 5-16 5-18
5-19 5-21
6-l 6-3 6-4 6-5 6-5 6-6 6-7 6-8 6-9 6-10
6-11 6-11 6-12
vii
Mouse Problems
Controller Problems
External Cache Problems
Appendix A Specifications
6-12 6-13 6-13
CPU and Memory Controllers Interfaces Mass storage Keyboard
SETUP Program Physical Characteristics Power Supply Option Slot Power Limits Environmental Requirements
Video Resolutions and Colors
Tested Operating Environments
Options Available from EPSON Hard DiskDrive Types Drive Option Information
Connector Pin Assignments
DMA Assignments
Hardware Interrupts
System Memory Map
System I/O Address Map
Index
A-l A-2 A-3 A-4 A-4 A-4
A-5 A-5 A-5 A-6 A-6 A-7 A-7 A-8 A-10 A-11 A-12 A-13 A-14 A-15
Viii
Chapter 1
Setting Up Your System
This chapter briefly describes how to set up your computer. It includes the following information:
0

Getting started

0
Connecting peripheral devices
0
Turning the computer on and off.
Getting Started
Follow the instructions below for choosing a location for your
new system and unpacking it.

Choosing a Location

When you are ready to set up your system, choose a safe,
convenient location that provides the following:
A flat, hard surface. Surfaces like beds and carpets attract
static electricity, which can erase data on your disks, damage the computer’s circuitry, and prevent proper ventilation.
Moderate environmental conditions. Select a cool, dry area
and protect your computer from extremes in temperature, humidity, dust, and smoke. Avoid direct sunlight or other
sources of heat.
Good air circulation. Leave several inches of space around the computer so air can move freely.
Setting Up Your System
l-l
0
No electromagnetic interference. Do not place your system too close to any electrical device, such as a telephone or television, which generates an electromagnetic field.
0
Appropriate power source. Connect all your equipment with the appropriate power cords for the power source in your area.

Unpacking Your Computer

When you unpack your system components, make sure you have these items:
computer
diskette
keyboard
manual
Your system may also include an EPSON PS/2 compatible mouse and may come with the operating system and software already installed on a hard disk drive.
If you purchased any optional equipment that wasn’t installed at the factory—such as option cards, memory modules, a hard disk, or a diskette drive-you install these options before you connect your computer. See Chapters 4 and 5 for instructions.
1-2
Setting Up Your System

Connecting Peripheral Devices

Use the illustration below to locate the ports on the back of your system as you connect the keyboard, monitor, printer, and other devices.
monitorcable
power inlet
poweroutlet
MOUSE
PA RA LLEL

Connecting a Keyboard

To connect a keyboard, hold the cable connector so the arrow
on the connector faces up. Insert it into the port marked K/B.

Connecting a Mouse

If your system came with an EPSON PSI 2 compatible mouse:
you connect it to the computer’s built-in mouse port. To
connect the mouse, insert the connector into the port marked
MOUSE
Setting Up Your System
1-3
Caution
Although the connectors and ports for the mouse and keyboard are physically identical, they cannot be used interchangeably. Be sure to plug the mouse connector into the MOUSEport, or you may damage your system.
If your system has not already been configured, you may need to install a mouse driver. See your mouse manual for instructions. (If you are using Windows, the mouse drive was automatically installed by the program.)

Connecting a Monitor

You can connect your VGA monitor to the computer’s built-in VGA port as described below. (If you will be using a different type of monitor, connect it to the video adapter card installed in your system instead.)
1.
Place your monitor on top of or near the computer. Turn the monitor and computer around so the backs are facing you.
2.
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 the 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
3.
Examine the connector on the monitor cable and line it up with the Sport on the computer. Then insert the connector into the port.
Caution
To avoid damaging the connector, be careful not to bend the pins when you insert it.
Setting Up Your System
4.
If the connector has retaining screws, tighten them.
5.
Plug the monitor’s power cord into the power inlet on the back of the monitor.
6.
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 1 Amp.

Connecting a Printer or Other Device

Your computer has one bidirectional parallel and two serial ports. To connect a printer or other peripheral device, follow the appropriate instructions below.
Using the parallel port
Follow these steps to connect a parallel printer:
1.
Place the printer next to the computer so that the backs are facing you.
2.
Align the connector end of the printer cable with the
PARALLELport and plug it in. If the connector has retaining screws, tighten them.
3.
Connect the other end of the cable to the printer. To secure
the cable, squeeze the clips at each side of the printer port
and push them into place.
4.
Plug the printer’s power cord into a grounded electrical outlet.
Setting Up Your System
1-5
Using
the serial ports
If you have a printer, a modem, or a mouse with a serial interface, you can connect it to one of the serial (RS-232C) ports on the back of the computer. Make sure you have a cable compatible with a DB-9P connector.
To connect a serial device, insert the connector into one of the ports marked COM1 and COMC. If you are connecting only one serial device, use the COM1 port.

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.
1-6
2.
Plug the other end of the power cord into a grounded electrical outlet.
Setting Up Your System

Turning On the Computer

After you set up your system, you are ready to turn on the power. Use the illustration below to identify the features of your system’s front panel. (Your computer’s front panel may look a bit different from the one illustrated in this manual.)
Before you turn on your computer, check the following safety rules to avoid accidentally damaging your computer or injuring yourself
0
Do not connect or disconnect any peripheral device cables
(including the keyboard or a mouse) or power cables unless
the computer’s power is off.
0
Never turn off or reset your computer while a disk drive light is on. This can destroy data stored on the disk.
0
Never turn on the computer with a protective card in the
diskette drive.
Setting Up Your System
1-7
0
Always wait at least 20 seconds after you turn off the power before you turn it on again to prevent possible damage to the computer’s electrical circuitry.
0
Do not leave a beverage near your system. Spilled liquid can damage the circuitry of your equipment.
Follow these steps to turn on your system :
Turn your computer around so the front panel faces you. Place your monitor, printer, and other devices in a convenient arrangement.
If there is a protective card in the diskette drive, remove it.
Turn on the monitor, printer, and any other devices connected
to the computer.
Turn on the computer by pressing the power button on the right side of the front panel.
The power indicator lights up, then the screen displays the BIOS version number and copyright information. The computer performs its power-on diagnostics, which are a series of checks that make sure everything is working correctly. During diagnostics, you see a screen message telling you to press F2 to run the SETUP program. (Chapter 2 describes starting and using SETUP.)
1-8
When the computer completes its testing, it displays a screen describing the system’s configuration. If necessary, press the Pause key on the keyboard to view the configuration screen. Then press any key to continue the startup process.
5.
If necessary, use the controls on your monitor to adjust the brightness and contrast until you can easily see the characters on the screen. If your monitor has horizontal and vertical hold controls, you may need to use them to
stabilize the display.
Setting Up Your System
If your system is configured to automatically load a program (such as Microsoft Windows or a word processing program), you see the first menu or screen display of that program. If not, you may see the operating system prompt, such as C: \> or A: \>.
If there is no operating system installed on your computer, you see an error message. Ignore the message for now; once you install the operating system, you will not see it.
Now you need to run the SETUP program to make sure your computer is configured properly. First turn off the computer, as described below, then see Chapter 2 for instructions. When you finish running SETUP, be sure to see “Post-SETUP Procedures” on page 2-13 for guidelines on what you need to do next.

Turning Off the Computer

Whenever you turn off your system, follow these steps:
1.
Save your data and exit any application program you are
using.
2.
Check the hard disk drive light and the diskette drive light(s) to make sure they are not on. Do not turn off the computer if a drive light is on, because you can damage the drive or lose data.
3.
Remove any diskette(s) from the diskette drive(s).
4.
Press the power button to turn off the computer.
5.
Turn off the monitor, printer, and any other peripheral devices.
Setting Up Your System
1-9
Chapter 2
Running the SETUP Program
You may need to run the SETUP program the first time you use your computer. If your system came unconfigured, you need to define how it is set up. If your system was configured for you, you may want to check the settings or adjust the date and time. You also may need to run the program again later if you change your configuration.
SETUP lets you verify or change the following:
0
System settings such as date, time, diskette drive type(s): and video display type
0
Automatic or manual selection of hard disk drive(s)
0
Automatic or manual selection of advanced hardware features for optimizing system performance
0
System booting options
0
Password security and anti-virus features.
SETUP also allows you to see summary information about your system.
The SETUP program and the factory default settings are stored in the computer’s ROM BIOS (read-only memory, basic input/ output system). The configuration information you enter is stored in an area of memory called CMOS RAM. This memory is backed up by a battery, so it is not erased when you turn off or reset the computer.
Running the SETUP Program
2-1

Starting the SETUP Program

When you start your computer, it performs some power-on diagnostics. During these diagnostics, you may see the following message:
Press <F2> to enter SETUP
(In SETUP, you can disable this message, if desired.)
Press F2 to run SETUP. This message is only on the screen for a few seconds. If you missed it, restart the computer and try again.
If the system detects an error in your configuration, you hear two beeps and see an error message followed by this message:
Press <Fl> to resume, <F2> to Setup
Press F2 to run SETUP.
SETUP displays the Main Menu. From this menu, you can
select the various options to identify your system’s configuration and then save your new values to CMOS. If you change your mind, you can cancel any changes you have made
and restore the default values stored in ROM or load the values previously stored in CMOS.
The table below lists the keys you can use to perform SETUP operations.
2-2
Running the SETUP Program
SETUP function keys (continued)
Key
F5or­F6
or +
Spacebar F9
FlO
Enter Esc
or
Alt
or
Function
Selectsthe previousvalue Selectsthe next value
Loadsthe factory default valuesforthe SEIUPoptionson
the current
Ignoresany changesyou have made
Screen
Selectsthe current option orvalue
X
Returnsto
Screen
on
the previousscreen
the current
Whenever you are in SETUP, the bottom of the screen lists the keys you can press to perform specific functions.

The System Setup Option

When you select this option, you see the System Setup screen. From this screen, you can set the system time and date, define your video display type, check system memory, and define the diskette drives.

Setting the Time and Date

The real-time clock in your computer continuously tracks the date and time-even when the computer is turned off. Once you set the System Time and System Date options, you
should not need to change them, unless you adjust the time for
daylight savings or a different time zone. (The computer
automatically changes the date for leap years.)
Running the SETUP Program
2-3

Setting the Video Display Type

The Video System option allows you to define the type of display you are using. If you have a VGA monitor that you connected to the computer’s built-in VGA port, select EGA/VGA.
If you connected a monitor that doesn’t support VGA to a video adapter card installed in your system, select either the
CGA 80 X 25 or the Monochrome option. If you installed a video adapter card, make sure you disabled the onboard VGA controller by setting jumper 518 to the Off position. (See
Chapter 4 for instructions.)

Checking System Memory

Your computer comes with 4MB of RAM on a SIMM. MS-DOS
and application programs that run under MS-DOS use the first
640KB of memory. The memory above 1MB is extended memory.
When you boot your system, the system BIOS detects the total memory size automatically. You see the memory configuration
displayed in the System Memory and Extended Memory fields on this SETUP screen.
You cannot change these values; if they are not what you
expect them to be, check that the SIMM(s) are securely seated
in their sockets. (See Chapter 4 to locate the SIMM sockets.)

Setting the Diskette Drive(s)

On your system, diskette drive A is the 3.5-inch high-density
drive installed in the lower drive bay. You may also have
another drive of a different size or capacity; this is drive B.
Check the settings for both drives and correct them if necessary.
2-4
Running the SETUP Program

The Fixed Disk Setup Option

The Fixed Disk Setup options define the types of hard disk drives you installed in your system. When you select this option, you see the Fixed Disk Setup screen. From this screen, select Fixed Disk 0 Controlor Fixed Disk 1
Control.
Your computer comes with a hard disk auto-sensing feature. Press Enter when the Autotype Fixed Disk option is highlighted. The system detects the type of hard disk drive and fills in the remaining fields on the screen.
If you are using an older drive or a preformatted drive, it may not support the auto-sensing feature. If you press Enter when the Autotype Fixed Diskoption ishighlighted and the drive parameters do not match your drive, check Appendix A to see if your drive’s parameters are included in the hard disk drive table. If not, you need to define your own drive type or reformat the disk. See the next section for instructions on how to define your own drive type.

Defining Your Own Drive Type

If the parameters for your hard disk do not match the parameters detected by the auto-sensing feature, or if you want to use your drive with parameters other than the defaults, you can define your own type. (See Appendix A for a list of predefined hard disk drive types and their parameters.)
To define your own drive type, follow these steps:
1.
Move the cursor to Type and select User.
2.
Type the values in each field that are appropriate for your hard disk drive.
3.
When you exit SETUP, make sure you save your changes.
Running the SETUP Program
2-5

The Advanced System Setup Option

When you select this option from the Main Menu, you see the Advanced System Setup screen. From this screen, you can select options that allow you to configure the computer’s cache memory and shadow memory, and define the advanced chipset options.
Note
Your system can automatically configure the Advanced System Setup options for you. To avoid configuration problems, you should let the system configure these options.

Configuring Cache Memory

The system can configure your Memory Cache options or you can manually set them. If you installed external cache, enabling cache memory improves system performance, especially in large data retrieval and processing environments.
If you choose to configure the cache memory yourself (rather than let the system configure it for you), you can define the write and burst wait states and two non-cacheable areas of memory. However, it’s a good idea to let the system automatically configure these features.

Configuring Memory Shadow

The system can configure the Memory Shadow options or you can manually set them. You can enable or disable shadowing of your system and video memory and control the specific blocks of ROM used for this purpose.
2-6
Running the SETUP Program
Your computer can access RAM faster than ROM. The options on this screen allow your system to copy the contents of its system and/ or video ROM into RAM. When you use shadowing, your system can perform certain operations faster, providing a significant increase in performance.
Note
For the best system performance, always set the System shadow and the Video shadow options to Enabled.
If you enable shadowing for specific blocks, the ROM located in these blocks is copied to the shadow area.

Configuring Chipset Registers

The system can set your Advanced Chipset Control options or you can manually change the values in the chipset registers. Setting these values correctly increases your system performance; however, setting them incorrectly may cause your system to malfunction or shut down. Be sure to set the Auto Configuration option to Enabled to let the system automatically configure these options to avoid problems.
Running the SETUP Program
2-7

Setting the Boot Options

When you select Boot Options from the Main Menu, you see the Boot Options screen. These options allow you to define the boot sequence and determine the information you see on the screen when you start up your system.
The Disk drive boot sequence option determines the order in which the computer checks the drives when it looks for the operating system.
If you select A: then C:, each time you turn on the
computer, it first tries to load the operating system from drive
A. If drive A doesn’t contain an operating system, the computer loads it from drive C. If you select C : then A:, the computer tries to load the operating system from drive C first. If drive C doesn’t contain an operating system, the computer tries to load it from drive A. If you select C : only, the computer tries to load the operating system from drive C only.
If you set the Disk drive boot sequence option to C: only, you can disable the Floppy seek option so the system does not try to access the diskette drive at startup. Disabling the Floppy seek option decreases the time needed
to boot the system.
The Display SETUP prompt during POST option allows you to disable the message Press <F2> to enter SETUP that you see during power-on diagnostics. You may want to disable this prompt to prevent unauthorized users from seeing the SETUP prompt. Even when the message is disabled, however, you can still start SETUP by pressing F2 within the allowed amount of time.
2-8
Running the SETUP Program
The Pause on POST errors option allows you to disable the error message and the message Press <Al> to resume, <F2> to Setup that you see when the system identifies a configuration error. If you disable this option, the system ignores configuration errors it finds during power-on diagnostics and starts as it normally would. It’s a good idea to keep this option enabled.
By disabling the System summary screen at boot option, you can disable the system summary screen that you see when you start the system. If you disable this option, your system starts up faster. You can see the same screen by selecting the System Summary option from the Main Menu. (See page 2-12.)

The System Security and Anti-Virus Options

When you select the Security and Anti -Virus option from the Main Menu, you see the System Security and Anti-Virus screen. The password options on this screen let you define both a Supervisor and a User password. You can specify whether a password is required when you start the system.
The Diskette Access option allows you to restrict diskette access at either the User or Supervisor password level to protect your system from receiving a virus from a diskette.

Entering or changing a Password

You can define both User and Supervisor password levels for this system. If the system will be used by more than one person, you may want to set a Supervisor password for yourself and a User password for others you don’t want to have complete access to the system. For instance, you may want to restrict access to the diskette drives or the computer’s virus protection features.
Running the SETUP Program
2-9
If you enable the Password on boot option, you must enter the Supervisor or User password each time you turn on the system. If you do not enable this option but you have defined passwords, you must enter the password each time you start the SETUP program. If both a Supervisor and User password are enabled, SETUP displays options for setting the User password only for users who logged on with a user password.
To specify a User password, you must first specify a Supervisor password, follow these steps to enter or change a Supervisor password:
1.
Select the Set Supervisor Password option and press
Enter.
2.
You see a Set Supervisor Password window. Type the password you want to use, then press Enter. You can define
a password of up to eight characters.
3.
Type the same password a second time and press Enter. You
see a message that your changes have been saved.
4.
Press the spacebar. The Supervisor Password IS option is now set to Enabled.
To set a User password, select the Set User Password option and follow the steps above.

Deleting Passwords

To delete your passwords, follow these steps:
1.
Set the Password on boot option to Disabled.
2.
Delete the User password by pressing Enter for both the password field and the confirmation field. Don’t type any characters in these fields.
2-10
Running the SETUP Program
3.
Then delete the Supervisor password the same way.
Note
You must delete the User password before SETUP will
allow you to access the Supervisor password.
If you have forgotten your password(s), see “Password Problems” in Chapter 6.

Using the Diskette Access Option

The Diskette Access option allows you to restrict access to your diskette drives based on the password levels you have defined. This prevents unauthorized users from accessing the drives and possibly introducing a virus into your system. You can restrict access only if passwords are enabled and you have enabled the Password on boot option.
If you select Supervisor for this option you can access the diskette drives only if you enter the Supervisor password during system startup. Someone who starts the system with a User password, however, will see an error message when he or
she tries to access the diskette drive. If you select User for the Diskette Access option, you can access the diskette drives
whether you enter the Supervisor or User password during
startup.
Note
To use passwords for diskette drive access, you must enable the Password on boot option. If you select a password level for Diskette Access, but leave the Password on boot option disabled, you see an error message whenever you try to access your diskette drive.
Running the SETUP Program
2-11

The System Summary Option

When you select the System Summary option from the Main Menu, the SETUP program displays a summary of the configuration settings for your system.
This is the same screen you see during system startup. You can choose not to have the system display this screen so system startup is faster. See page 2-8 for information on disabling this option.

Exiting SETUP

When you leave SETUP, you can save your settings, or exit SETUP without saving your settings. You can also return all values to the factory defaults.
To leave SETUP, press ESC from any SETUP screen. From the Main Menu, you can do the following:
Load ROM Default Values
Loads the factory default settings
stored in ROM back into CMOS.
If you change your system configuration and then have
problems, you can load the ROM values to boot the system and start over.
Load Values
from CMOS
Save Values
to CMOS to your configuration to CMOS.
Press ESC to leave SETUP and restart your computer.
2-12
Running the SETUP Program
Loads the current values stored in
CMOS for all SETUP options. This ignores any changes you have made using SETUP.
Saves the changes you have made

Post-SETUP Procedures

After you run SETUP for the first time, you may need to install the operating system on your computer (if it is not already installed). See your operating system manual for instructions.
Once you have installed your operating system, install any software you plan to use. See your application program manuals for instructions.
You may also want to install the optional extended video drivers for some of your application programs. (If your computer was configured for you, these drivers are already installed.) See the README file included on your Utility diskette for more information.
Note
If you plan to install video drivers for Windows applications, you must install Windows before you install the drivers.
Running the SETUP Program
2-13
Chapter 3
Using Your Computer
This chapter briefly describes the following operations:
0

Working comfortably

0
Inserting and removing diskettes
0
Stopping a command or program
0
Resetting the computer
0
Using the password
0
Changing the processor speed.
Working Comfortably
Use the guidelines to create a comfortable work environment:
Use good posture. Keep your elbows, hips, and knees bent at approximately 90 degree angles and keep your wrists as close to horizontal as possible.
Vary your posture often and take frequent breaks. Stand up, stretch, and move around.
Use a good chair. Make sure your chair supports your lower back. Padded armrests let you rest your arms as you work.
If you use a copy stand, keep it at the same eye level as your screen. This reduces eye and neck strain. Also, rest your eyes occasionally by closing them or focusing on a fixed spot in the distance.
Using Your Computer
3-1
Place your monitor directly in front of you and sit about an arm’s length away from it. The top of the screen should be slightly below your eye level so you look down at the screen. Position the monitor so that no light is reflected
from the screen.
Use good lighting that isn’t too bright. Try to keep bright light sources out of your field of vision when you are looking at the screen.
Be gentle with your keyboard. Too much force creates tension in your hands. Also, make sure your work surface has enough room for you to move the mouse or other pointing device freely.

Inserting and Removing Disks

To insert a diskette into a 3.5-inch drive, hold the diskette with
the label facing up and the metal shutter leading into the drive,
as shown in the following illustration. Slide the diskette into
the drive until it clicks into place.
3-2
metal shutter
Using Your Computer
To insert a diskette into a 5.25-inch drive, hold the diskette with the label facing up and the read/ write slot leading into the drive. When the diskette is completely in the drive, turn down the latch to secure the diskette in the drive.
When you want to remove the diskette, make sure the drive light is off; then press the release button or turn the latch. 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.
Sopping a Command or Program
You may sometimes need to stop a command or program while it is running. If you have entered a DOS or application program command that you want to stop, try one of the following:
0
Press Pause
0
Press Ctrl C
0
Press Ctrl Break.
If these methods do not work, you may need to reset the computer as described below. Do not turn off the computer to exit a program or stop a command unless you have to, because the computer erases any data you did not save.
Using Your Computer
3-3

Resetting the Computer

Occasionally, you may want 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.
When you reset the computer, the operating system must be either on the hard disk or on a diskette in drive A; so if you do not have a hard disk, insert the operating system diskette in drive A. If you are using DOS, you can hold down Ctrl and Alt and press Del.
If you set the Disk drive boot sequence option in SETUP to C: only (see Chapter 2), the operating system must be on the hard disk when you reset the computer. If you selected A: then C: or C: then A:, the operating system must be either on the hard disk or on a diskette in drive A. If you do not have a hard disk, insert a bootable diskette (one that contains the necessary portions of the operating system) in drive A. If you are using MS-DOS, press Ctrl Alt and Del to reset the system.
You can also press the RESETbutton located on the front panel of your computer. The screen displays nothing for a moment and then the computer reloads the operating system.
3-4
Using Your Computer
If resetting the computer does not solve the problem, you 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. If you do not have a hard disk drive, insert a bootable diskette in drive A. Then turn on the computer.

Using a Password

In SETUP, you can define both a Supervisor level password and a User level password. You can also specify whether a password is required when you boot the system. This password can also control access to the diskette drives.
If `you enabled the Password on boot option in SETUP, you must enter the Supervisor or User password every time you turn on or reset the computer. If you entered a password but disabled the Password on boot option, you must enter the password when you start SETUP.
If you set the Diskette Access option to Supervisor, you can access a diskette drive only if you entered a Supervisor password when you started the system. If you entered a User password but the Diskette Access option is set to Supervisor, you see an error message when you cannot access the diskette drive.
When you enter your password, you’ll see the prompt, Enter password:. As you type your password, you see a rectangle for each character you type. When you 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 on the third try, the computer locks up to prevent unauthorized access. You see the message:
System Disabled!
Using Your Computer
3-5
You must turn off the computer and start over. You can reset the computer using the RESETbutton but you cannot reset the computer by pressing Ctrl Alt and Del.
Note
If you want to change or delete your password, you must run the SETUP program as described in Chapter 2.
If you do not remember your password, see “Password Problems” in Chapter 6.

Changing the Processor Speed

Your computer’s processor can operate at two speeds: fast (the
speed of your microprocessor) or slow (8 MHz). The slow speed is available to provide compatibility with older application programs.
When your computer is operating at fast speed, the speed light
(labeled
operating at slow speed, the light is off.
TURBO)
on the front panel is on. When the computer is
You should use fast speed for almost everything you do because your programs will work faster. However, certain
application programs have specific timing requirements and can run only at the slower speed. See your software manual to determine if this is the case.
Some copy-protected programs require the computer to run at
slow speed while accessing the program on a diskette. These programs also usually require you to leave a key disk-the diskette that contains the copy protection-in the diskette drive. If you 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.
3-6
Using Your Computer
You can change the processor speed temporarily by entering one of the following commands from the numeric keypad on your keyboard :
0
To select slow speed, press Ctrl Alt and then press the -key on the numeric keypad. This turns off the speed light.
0
To select fast speed, press Ctrl Alt and press + on the numeric keypad. The speed light comes on.
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 one of do the following:
0
Reset your computer
0
Turn off your computer
0
Change the speed with another keyboard command
0
Change the jumper setting of J25 (as described in Chapter 4).
Using Your Computer 3- 7
Chapter 4
lnstaIling and Removing Options
You can enhance the performance of your computer by adding optional equipment such as system, video, or cache memory modules, option cards, or a microprocessor upgrade.
This chapter first describes how to remove your computer’s cover to install options and how to replace the cover when you are finished. It then describes the following:
0
Locating the internal components
0
Changing the jumper settings
0
Installing and removing SIMMs (single in line memory modules)
0
Installing and removing option cards
0
Removing and re-installing the option card connector board
0
Adding video memory
0
Installing external cache
0
Installing microprocessor upgrades.
Caution
Never install options or change jumper settings when the
computer is turned on or the power cable is connected to the computer.
Once you have installed your options, see “Post-installation Procedures” on page 4-30.
Installing and Removing Options
4-1

Removing the Cover

You need to remove the computer’s cover to install any of the options described in this chapter or to install or remove a disk drive (as described in Chapter 5).
Follow these steps to remove the cover:
1.
Turn off the computer and then any peripheral devices (including the monitor and printer).
2.
Disconnect the computer’s power cable from the electrical outlet and from the back panel. Also disconnect any cables
that are connected to the computer, including the keyboard
cable.
3.
If the monitor is on top of the computer, lift it off and set it to one side.
4.
Turn the computer around so the back panel is facing you.
5.
Remove the three screws securing the back panel.
4-2
Installing and Removing Options
Grasp the sides of the cover and lift it straight up, as shown
6. below:
Set the cover aside.
7.
Ground yourself to the computer by touching the metal
8. 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.
Installing and Removing Options
4-3

Replacing the Cover

When you are ready to replace the computer’s cover, follow these steps:
1.
Make sure all the internal components are installed
properly.
2.
Check all cable connections, especially those that might have
been loosened during your work.
3.
Make sure all cables are out of the way so they do not catch on the cover.
4.
Insert the front of the cover between the front bezel and the chassis of the computer and guide it straight down. (See the illustration on page 4-3.)
5.
Replace the three cover retaining screws.
6.
Reconnect the computer to the monitor, printer, keyboard, and any other peripheral devices you have. Then reconnect the power cable to the back of the computer and to an electrical outlet.
4-1
Installing and Removing Options

Locating the Internal Components

As you follow the instructions in this chapter, refer to the illustration below to locate the different components inside your computer.
Installing and Removing Options
4-5

Changing the Jumper Settings

The main system board in your computer has a number of
jumpers that control certain functions. These jumpers are preset
at the factory to default positions. See the illustration below to locate the jumpers on the system board.
Note
These are the only jumpers you may need to change. Other
jumpers on the system board are for service purposes only.
4-6
Installing and Removing Options
Use the information in the following tables to change jumper settings, if necessary.
Jumpersettings
* Factory setting ** You can use MS-DOS to automatically reassign parallel and serial ports.
Check your MS-DOS manuaI for more information.
***Setting dependson CPU
Installing and Removing Options
4-7
Edema/cache jumper settings*
*
If you have no external cache installed, the position of these jumpersdoes
not matter.

Setting the Jumpers

If you need to change any jumper settings, follow these steps:
1.
Refer to the illustration on page 4-6 to locate the jumpers.
2.
If there are any option cards installed in your computer, you need to remove them to access the jumpers. See page 4-18.
4-8
3.
A jumper’s setting is determined by where the jumper is placed on the pins. Use the following table to identify the pin settings for 2-pin, 3-pin, and 4-pin jumpers. To identify pin 1, look at the system board under the jumper. You will
see a triangle traced on the board at pin 1.
Installing
and Removing Options
Setting jumpers
To move a jumper from one position to the other, use needle­nose 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 main system board.
4.
Replace any option cards you removed. See page 4-14 for instructions.
Installing and Removing Options
4-9
Installing Memory Modules (SMMs)
Your computer comes with 4MB of memory on a SIMM. By installing additional SIMMs, you can increase the amount of memory in your computer up to 64MB.
There are two SIMM sockets on the main system board. You can install 4MB, SMB, 16MB, and 32MB SIMMs. The following table shows the possible SIMM configurations; do not install memory in any other configuration. (When the front of the computer is facing you, BANK 0 is on the right. An x in the table below indicates no SIMM installed .)
3MM configurations
4-10
Installing and Removing Options
Use only tin-plated, 32-bit or 36-bit, 72-pin, fast-page mode
SIMMs that operate at an access speed of 70ns (nanoseconds) or
faster.
Be sure all the SIMMs operate at the same speed.

Inserting SIMMs

Make sure the computer is turned off and then follow these steps to install SIMMs:
1.
Make sure the front of the computer is facing you.
2.
Refer to the illustration on page 4-5 to locate the SIMM sockets on the right side of the system board.
3.
Remove any option cards that may be blocking your access to the SIMM sockets. (See page 4-18 for instructions.)
4.
Position the SIMM at an angle over the empty SIMM socket, as shown below.
Installing and Removing Options
4-11
5.
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.
6.
Replace any option cards you removed. (See page 4-14 for instructions.)

Removing SIMMs

If you need to remove SIMMs from your computer (to install different ones, for example), make sure the computer is turned off and then follow the steps below:
1.
Make sure the front of the computer is facing you.
2.
Refer to the illustration on page 4-5 to locate the SIMM sockets on the right side of the system board.
3.
Remove any option cards that may be blocking your access to the SIMM sockets. (See page 4-18 for instructions.)
4-12
Installing and Removing Options
4.
Use your fingers or a small screwdriver to carefully pull away the metal tabs that secure the SIMM at each end, as shown below.
5.
As you pull away the tabs, the SIMM falls to the side. Remove it from the socket.
6.
If necessary, follow the same procedure to remove the other SIMM.
7.
If you are inserting different SIMMs, follow the instructions on page 4-l1 to install them.
8.
Replace any option cards you removed, as described below.
Installing and Removing Options
4-13
lnstalling an Option Card
This section explains how to install option cards in your computer. Your computer has three 16-bit, full-length slots and two S-bit, half-length slots to accommodate a total of five option cards.
As you install option cards, keep these guidelines in mind:
Usually it does not matter which slot an option card occupies as long as the card fits in the slot. For example,
you can place some S-bit cards in a 16-bit slot. When you
select the slot you want to use, make sure that no components are touching or obstructing other cards or cables.
If you have a DX or DX2 processor installed, you may not be able to install a 16-bit card in the bottom slot because a heat sink or heat sink/ fan assembly may be mounted on the processor.
When you unpack the option card, be careful not to touch
any of the components on the circuit board or the gold-edged connectors. If you need to set it down before you install it, place it gently on top of its original packing materials with the component side facing up. Keep the packing materials in case you remove the card later.
4-14
Before you install the card, adjust any switches or jumpers on it, if necessary. (See your option card documentation for instructions.) Also, see if you need to change any jumper
settings on the system board. For example, if you install a
SCSI hard disk drive, you may need to change jumper 523 to disable the IDE hard disk drive controller. See page 4-6 for more information on jumpers.
Installing and Removing Options
Caution
Make sure the power requirements for the option cards you install do not exceed the power supply limitations. See your option card manual(s) for the power requirements. Then check Appendix A for the option slot power limits.
Refer to the illustrations below and follow these steps to install
an option card:
1.
If you are using a 16-bit option slot, go on to step 2. If you are using an S-bit slot near the power supply, you need to
move the power supply before you can remove the metal
slot cover.
Remove the screws securing the power supply to the computer, as shown below. Be careful not to disconnect any of the cables. Slide the power supply away from the option slots until you can remove the slot covers easily.
Installing and Removing Options
4-15
2.
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.)
3.
Slide out the slot cover and set it aside. (Store it in a safe place in case you remove the option card later.)
4-16
Installing and Removing Options
4.
Hold the card along the top corners and guide it into the connector, as shown below. (If you are installing a
full-length card, insert the front edge of the card into the
corresponding guide inside the computer’s front panel.)
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.
5.
Secure the end of the card to the computer with the retaining screw.
6.
If you removed the power supply, make sure you replace it again, as outlined in step 1.
Installing and Removing Options
4-17

Removing an Option Card

You may need to remove an option card to access components on the main system board-to change a jumper setting, for example. You may also want to remove a card if you no longer need it. Refer to the option card illustration on page 4-17 and 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.
3.
If you are not replacing an option card, replace the option slot cover and retaining screw.

Removing the Option Card Connector Board

You may need to remove the option card connector board to replace the microprocessor installed on your system board. Follow these steps:
1.
Remove any option cards from the connector board (see the section above).
4-18
Installing and Removing Options
2.
Remove the two retaining screws securing the option card connector board to the back of the computer, as shown below.
3.
Pull the board straight up and out of its socket and set it aside.
Installing and Removing Options
4-19

Replacing the Option Card Connector Board

If you removed the option card connector board, follow these steps to replace it. Refer to the option card connector board illustration above.
1.
Position the board above its slot and push it straight into the connector, as shown below.
4-20
2.
Secure the board to the back of the computer with its two
retaining screws.
3.
Re-install any option cards you removed. See page 4-14.
Installing and Removing Options

Adding Video Memory

Your computer comes with 512KB of video memory soldered onto the main system board. You can increase your video
memory to 1MB by installing four video DRAM, 20-pin, 70ns or
Sons, 256KB x 4-bit, DIP (Dual Inline Package) chips. This is
useful for running graphics-intensive applications or for
supporting resolutions up to 1024 x 768 in 256 colors.
For the memory to work properly, you must install chips in one of the following configurations (each bank consists of two
video memory sockets).
Video memory chip configuration
* Standard video memory

Installing the Video Chips

Follow these steps to install additional video DIP chips:
1.
Locate the memory chip sockets on the main system board, shown on page 4-5.
Bank 0 contains two chips soldered onto the main system board, so you cannot add video memory in this bank. Bank
1 contains the two filled sockets closest to the soldered chips. Bank 2 is the two middle sockets and Bank 3 consists of the remaining two sockets.
2.
If there is an option card in your way, remove it. See page 4-18 for instructions.
Installing and
Removing Options 4-21
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.
3.
Remove the memory chips from their package and inspect each one. The pins should point inward at slightly less than
a 90o angle.
If any of the pins are bent, straighten them gently with your fingers or with small tweezers to align them with the other pins. Be careful when you do this; the pins are fragile and can break off easily.
4.
Position one of the video chips over the first empty socket as
shown below, aligning the pins on the chip with the holes
in the socket. Make sure the notch in the end of the chip is
aligned with a similar notch in the socket.
4-22
Installing and Removing Options
5.
Gently press the chip halfway into the socket (to make sure it is correctly aligned). If the chip goes in at an angle, remove it with a chip puller or a small flat-head screwdriver and try again.
6.
When the chip is properly positioned, push down firmly on both ends of the chip to make sure it is well-seated.
7.
Repeat steps 4 through 6 for each of the remaining chips.
8.
Replace any option cards you removed. See page 4-14 for instructions.
When you start your computer, it displays the video memory briefly before it begins its memory test.
lnstalling ExternaI Cache
You can install 64Kl3,128KB, or 256KB of external cache on
your system.
0
To install 64KB of external cache, use eight SRAM, 28-pin,
8K x 8,20ns DIP chips, and one 8K x 8,20ns tag chip
0
To install 128KB of external cache, use four SRAM, 28-pin,
32K x 8,20ns DIP chips, and one 32K x 8,20ns tag chip
0
To install 256KB of external cache, use eight SRAM, 28-pin,
32K x 8,20ns DIP chips, and one 32K x 8,20ns tag chip.
For the cache memory to work properly, you must install chips in the following configuration (each bank contains four cache memory sockets).
Installing and Removing Options
4-23
Cache memory configurations

Installing the Cache Chips

Follow these steps:
1.
Locate the external cache memory sockets on the main system board, shown on page 4-5.
2.
If there is an option card in your way, remove it. See page 4-18 for instructions.
Caution
To avoid generating static electricity and damaging the cache 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.
4-24
3.
Remove the cache chips from their package and inspect them. The pins should point inward at slightly less than a 90o angle.
If any of the pins are bent or crooked, straighten them gently with your fingers or with small tweezers to align them with the other pins. Be careful when you do this; the pins are fragile and can break off easily.
Installing and Removing Options
4.
Position one of the cache chips over the first socket as shown below, aligning the pins on the chip with the holes in the socket. Make sure the small notch on the end of the chip is aligned with the corresponding notch on the socket.
5.
Gently press the chip halfway into the socket (to make sure
it is correctly aligned). If the chip goes in at an angle, remove it and try again.
6.
When the chip is properly positioned, push down firmly on both ends of the chip to make sure it is well-seated.
7
Repeat steps 4 through 6 for each of the remaining chips.
8
Change jumpers 526,527,528, and J29 as described on page 4-8,
to correspond to the amount of cache you installed.
9
Replace any option cards you removed. See page 4-14 for
instructions.
Installing and Removing Options
4-25
10. Run SETUP to enable the External Cache option and check that the System shadow and Video shadow options are enabled. You select these options from the
Advanced System Setup menu. Make sure you save your
settings as you leave SETUP (see Chapter 2).
When the computer restarts, it displays the amount of external cache you have installed on the system.

Upgrading the Microprocessor

You can upgrade your computer by replacing the microprocessor with a faster one. The following table lists the components you can use to upgrade the microprocessor in your system.
Microprocessor upgrade components
* For the DX/33 processor ** For the DX2150 and DX2166 processors
Use the following table to identify the general steps you need to perform to upgrade your microprocessor. Then see the page listed in the final column for instructions on performing those
steps.
4-26
Installing
and Removing Options
Microprocessor upgrade steps

Replacing the Processor Chip

Be sure to remove the option card connector board before you follow the steps below to replace your microprocessor; see page 4-18 for instructions.
1.
Use the illustration on page 4-5 to locate the microprocessor.
2.
Ground yourself by touching the metal surface on the inside
of the computer’s back panel.
Caution
Make sure you ground yourself before you touch the processor chip. Then remain as stationary as possible while you install it. Do not touch the pins on the
processor chip. Handle the microprocessor only by the
edges of its case.
Installing and Removing Options 4-27
3.
If you use a chip puller, position the puller between the
processor chip and the socket.
You can also use a small, flat-edged screwdriver instead of a chip puller. Carefully wedge the tip of the screwdriver
between the processor chip and the socket. Gently turn the
screwdriver until the chip begins to separate from the
socket. Move the screwdriver to another side of the processor chip and again turn it until the chip separates from the socket. Keep doing this until you can lift the processor chip straight up from the socket.
Caution
The 486SW 25 microprocessor may be soldered onto an adapter board that is seated in the microprocessor socket. Make sure you position your chip puller or screwdriver just above the socket to avoid damaging the adapter board.
4.
Gently pull the processor chip straight up and set it aside.
5.
Remove the replacement chip from its package and inspect
the pins. If they are bent, do not install the processor chip.
Contact your vendor for a new microprocessor.
4-28
Installing and Removing Options
6.
Position the processor chip over the socket, aligning the notched edge of the chip (marked with a dot) with pin 1 on the socket, as shown below. A corresponding notch is drawn on the circuit board under the socket.
dot
pin 1
7.
Make sure the pins in the processor chip are directly over the holes in the socket. Then gently push the microprocessor
straight into the socket, pressing evenly on all sides.
8.
If you are upgrading from a 486SX processor to a DX or DX2 processor, you need to change the jumper settings of 521
and 522. If you are upgrading to a CPU with a different clock speed, you may need to change the setting of jumper J15. See the tables on pages 4-7 and 4-8 for the correct
jumper settings.
9.
If you are upgrading to a DX or DX2 processor, you must install a heat sink or heat sink/ fan assembly. Follow the instructions included with the heat sink.
10
See page 4-20 for instructions on replacing the option card
connector board. Then replace your option cards.
Installing and Removing Options
4-29

post-installation Procedures

After you install or remove options such as memory modules or a microprocessor, 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 manual and the manual that came with your optional equipment.
4-30
Installing and Removing Options
Chapter 5
Installing and Removing Drives
This chapter describes how to install and remove optional drives in your computer. You can use these instructions to install a variety of devices, including hard disk drives, a diskette drive, a tape drive, a CD-ROM drive, or an optical drive. Although your drive may look different from the ones illustrated here, you should be able to install it the same way.
Your computer can hold up to four mass storage devices. You can install one or two hard disk drives using the internal hard disk drive mounting bracket. In the upper externally accessible bay, you can install a second diskette drive, a tape drive, a
CD-ROM drive, or an optical drive.
To install or remove a drive, first remove the computer’s cover
as described in Chapter 4. Then follow the appropriate
instructions in this chapter to install and remove drives:
Installing a hard disk drive in the internal drive bay
Removing a hard disk drive from the internal drive bay
Installing a drive in the upper externally accessible drive bay
Removing a drive from the upper drive bay
Reconnecting drive and power cables to the diskette drive
in the lower drive bay
Post-installation procedures.
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.
Installing and Removing Drives
5-1

lnstalling a Hard Disk Drive in the lnternaI Drive Bay

Your computer may have a hard disk drive already installed in the internal drive bay. If not, you can install a l-inch high by 31/2-inch wide drive in this bay.
This section includes steps for the following procedures:
0
Removing the mounting frames from the hard disk drive (if necessary)
0
Connecting the hard disk drive cables
0
Installing the hard disk drive under the mounting bracket
0
Installing the hard disk drive above the mounting bracket.
Note
Be sure to check the jumper settings on the hard disk drive before you install it. Also, you may want to know the number of cylinders, heads, sectors, etc., if the auto-sensing feature in SETUP cannot correctly identify your drive. See
Chapter 2 and the documentation that came with your drive for this information.
Before you can install a hard disk drive, you need to remove
any option cards that may be blocking your access to the hard disk drive area. Once you have installed the drive, replace any option cards you removed. See Chapter 4 for instructions.
5-2
Installing and Removing Drives

Removing the Mounting Fames

If there are mounting frames attached to your hard disk drive,
you need to remove them before you can install the drive.
Follow these steps:
1.
On your drive, there may be a plastic guiderail and metal grounding plate attached to one of the mounting frames. If so, remove the screws securing them to the mounting frame and remove the guiderail and grounding plate.
plastic guiderail
mounting frames
2.
Then remove the two screws securing each mounting frame to the drive and remove the frames.
Installing and Removing Drives
5-3
Connecting the Hard Disk Drive Cables
To connect the hard disk drive to the computer, you need to connect two cables: the hard disk drive ribbon cable and a power supply cable.
The hard disk drive ribbon cable is attached to your system board. If you need to remove it for any reason, see “Connecting the drive cable to the system board,” below, for instructions on reconnecting the cable to the system board. Otherwise, see page 5-6 for instructions on connecting the ribbon cable and power supply cable to the drive.
You should connect both the hard disk drive ribbon cable and the power supply cable to the drive before you secure it with the mounting bracket. You will not be able to attach them once the bracket is in place.
Connecting the drive cable to the system board
If you need to connect the hard disk drive ribbon cable to the system board, follow the steps below. (If the hard disk drive ribbon cable is already attached to the system board, see
“Connecting the drive and power cables to the drive”on page 5-6.)
5-4
1.
Locate the hard disk drive ribbon cable; it is a flat cable with
a connector on each end and an additional connector on the
ribbon cable.
system board connector
red wire
hard disk drive connector
Installing and Removing Drives
2.
Locate the hard disk drive connector on the system board.
pin 1
Position the system board connector on the cable so that the red wire aligns with pin 1 of the connector on the system board. There is a “1” printed on the system board to identify pin 1.
Make sure the holes in the cable connector fit over the pins in the system board connector; then push in the cable connector.
Caution
If you do not correctly align the holes with the pins, you could severely damage your system board when you push in the cable connector.
Installing and Removing Drives
5-5
Connecting the drive and power cables to the drive
Follow the steps below to connect the hard disk drive ribbon cable and a power supply cable to the drive:
1.
Locate the hard disk drive connector on the end of the hard disk drive ribbon cable.
2.
Locate pin 1 on the drive connector. If you do not see it on the connector casing, turn the drive over so you can see the drive’s circuit board, as shown below. There is a “1” or “2” printed on the board to identify the side of the connector containing pin 1.
5-6
pin 1
3.
Position the connector on the cable so that the red wire aligns
with pin 1 on the drive.
4.
Make sure the holes in the cable connector fit over all the pins; then push in the connector.
Installing and Removing Drives
red wire
5.
Locate one of the power supply cables that lead from the power supply. (They have multi-colored 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.
Caution
If you do not align the cable connector correctly, you could severely damage your hard disk drive when you push it in.
Installing and Removing Drives
5- 7

Installing the Hard Disk Below the Mounting Bracket

If you have a l-inch tall hard disk drive, you can install it below the hard disk drive mounting bracket. Refer to the illustrations below and follow these steps:
1.
Remove the screw securing the mounting bracket to the base of the computer, as shown below.
5-8
2.
Slide the mounting bracket toward the diskette drive bays, as shown above, until the slots clear the tabs.
3.
Lift the mounting bracket out of the computer and set it aside.
Installing and Removing Drives
4.
Align the hard disk drive so that the cables lead toward the diskette drive bays and the four screw holes on the base of the drive are above the four pegs, as shown below.
pegs
5.
Gently lower the drive over the pegs. When the pegs are inserted in the screw holes on the base of the hard disk drive, the drive will not move from side to side.
Note
If the drive isn’t seated correctly on the pegs, you may not be able to close the cover all the way.
Installing and Removing Drives
5-9
6.
Lower the mounting bracket over the hard disk drive, making sure that the slots in the mounting bracket fit over the tabs on the base of the computer.
7.
Slide the bracket toward the side of the computer, as shown below, until the tabs hold the bracket in place.
5-10
8.
Secure the mounting bracket with the screw.
Installing and Removing Drives

Installing the Hard Disk On the Mounting Bracket

You can install a hard disk drive on top of the mounting bracket rather than under it. Refer to the illustration of the mounting bracket on page 5-8 and the one below while following these steps:
1.
Remove the screw securing the mounting bracket to the base of the computer and slide the mounting bracket toward the diskette drive bays until the slots clear the tabs. (See the illustration on page 5-8.)
2.
Lift the mounting bracket out of the computer.
3.
Turn the hard disk drive over and locate the four mounting holes on the drive.
4.
Position the bracket on the hard disk drive, aligning the holes in the bracket with the holes on the drive.
Installing and Removing Drives
5-11
5.
Secure the bracket to the drive with four screws
Note
If you plan to install two hard disk drives, you must use flat-head screws to secure the second drive to the mounting bracket. You can purchase flat-head screws at any hardware store; request this size: #6-32UNC x 8 FH, M,+. Also, make sure you set the jumpers on both hard disk drives to indicate which is the master and which is the slave drive. See the documentation that came with your drive for instructions.
6.
Turn the drive and the mounting bracket over, then slide the slots in the mounting bracket under the tabs at the base of
the computer until the tabs hold the bracket in place.
7.
Secure the mounting bracket with the retaining screw.
Note
If the drive does not fit within the internal bay, you can move the mounting frame toward the diskette drive bays and align only one set of the slots on the mounting bracket with the tabs on the computer. In this case, you insert the retaining screw in the front slot on the mounting bracket as shown in the following illustration.
5-12
Installing and Removing Drives

Removing a Hard Disk Drive From the Internal Drive Bay

To remove a hard disk drive, reverse the installation steps outlined above. Then disconnect the hard disk drive ribbon
cable and the power supply cable from the back of the drive. When you disconnect the cables, grasp the connectors and pull them straight out so you do not bend the pins; do not pull on the cables. Use the screws to again secure the hard disk drive
mounting bracket to the base of the computer.
Installing and Removing Drives
5-13

Installing a Drive in the Upper External Drive Bay

Your system comes with a 3.5-inch diskette drive installed in the lower externally accessible drive bay. You can also install a diskette drive, a tape drive, a CD-ROM, or an optical drive in the upper externally accessible drive bay.
If you are installing a tape drive with a standard 5.25-inch diskette drive connector, you can connect it using the diskette drive cable that came with your system.
Before you install a drive in the upper drive bay, remove the cover. Once you have the drive installed, replace the cover, following the instructions in Chapter 4.
Follow these steps to install a drive in the upper drive bay:
1.
Remove the faceplate from the bay by pushing it forward, as
shown below.
5-14
Installing and Removing Drives
Keep the faceplate in a safe place in case you remove a drive later (or you are installing a drive that you don’t need to
access).
2.
Remove any brackets or mounting frames from the drive.
See page 5-3 for instructions.
3.
Slide the drive into the bay until it is flush with the front of
the computer.
Installing and Removing Drives
5-15
4.
Align the slots at the side of the drive bay with the mounting holes in the drive. Then secure both sides of the drive to the
drive bay using the retaining screws.

Connecting the Drive and Power Cables

To connect the drive to the computer, you need to connect both the drive ribbon cable and a power supply cable. Follow the
steps below.
5-16
1.
If you are installing a diskette drive, locate the diskette drive ribbon cable. (The connector in the middle of the cable is already connected to the system board.)
Installing and Removing Drives
2.
If you are installing a drive with a card-edge connector, make
sure you align the key-way (the plastic divider) with the
gap in the drive connector, as shown below.
If you are installing a 3.5-inch diskette drive with a header connector in the lower bay, see page 5-19 for instructions on connecting this cable.
gap
key-way,
3.
Locate one of the power supply cables that lead from the power supply. (They have multi-colored wires and a plastic connector on the end .)
Installing and Removing Drives
5-17
4.
Align the notched corners of the power supply connector with the notched corners of the drive’s power supply
connector (such as the one shown below). Make sure the holes fit over all the pins and then push in the connector.
notched
corners
Caution
If you do not align the cable connectors correctly, you could severely damage your drive when you push them in.
If you installed a diskette drive in the upper bay, it is drive B; the lower drive is A. You can change the drive assignments through your operating system or you can purchase a different diskette drive ribbon cable.

Removing a Drive from the Upper Drive Bay

To remove a drive from the upper drive bay, follow these steps:
1.
Remove both the ribbon cable connector and the power
cable connector from the drive.
2.
Remove the screws securing the drive.
5-18
Installing and Removing Drives
3.
Reach behind the drive and gently push it to the front of the bay; then pull it out of the slot.
4.
Once you have removed the drive, replace the faceplate by inserting one side of the plate, then gently guiding the other side into place. You will hear it snap into place.

Reconnecting the Drive and Power Cables to the Diskette Drive in the Lower Drive Bay

If you had to disconnect the drive and power cables from the diskette drive in the lower bay, refer to the illustration below
while you follow these steps to reconnect the cables:
1.
Locate the connector on the diskette drive ribbon cable.
2.
Identify pin 1 on the drive and align the connector so that the red wire is at pin 1, as shown below. Push in the connector.
red wire
Installing and Removing Drives
5-19
3.
Locate the multi-colored power supply cable with the small connector. This cable is attached to the system board rather
than the power supply.
4.
Position the power supply cable connector so that the holes fit over all the pins. The red wire on the cable will align with pin 1 identified at the power connector on the circuit board of the drive. Push in the connector.
Caution
If you do not align the cable connector correctly, you could
severely damage your hard disk drive when you push it in.

Post-installation Procedures

After you install or remove your drive(s) and replace the cover on your computer, you need to run the SETUP program to define the correct configuration for your newly installed drive.
See Chapter 2 for instructions.
5-20
Installing and Removing Drives
Chapter 6
Troubleshooting
If you have any problems as you set up and use your computer, refer to this chapter. You can correct most problems by adjusting a cable connection, repeating a software procedure, or resetting the computer.
The troubleshooting suggestions in this chapter are organized in general categories, such as “The computer will not start.” Within each category, a more specific problem is described with possible solutions.
If the suggestions here do not solve the problem, perform the steps below to identify your system and make a note of any error messages your computer displays. Then contact your Authorized EPSON Servicer or call the EPSON Connection at
(800) 922-8911 (in the U.S.) or (800) GO-EPSON (in Canada).

Identifying Your System

When you request technical assistance, be ready to provide the
serial number of your computer, its system BIOS version number, its configuration (including the type of disk drives, monitor, and option cards), and the names and version numbers of any software programs you are using.
Use the guidelines on the next page to locate information about your system.
Troubleshooting
6- 1
Serial number:
Look on the back panel of the computer to find the serial number.
System BIOS version:
System configuration:
Windows version:
Software versions:
MS-DOS version:
Restart your system. You’ll see the system BIOS version number on the screen when your system performs power-on diagnostics.
Start SETUP and select the System Summary option to see your system ‘s configuration.
When your computer has loaded Windows, select Help from the
menu bar. Then select About
Program Manager to see the
version number. In Windows applications, select
About from the Help menu, or read the version number from the banner screen displayed when the program starts, or check your
software manual.
At the MS-DOS prompt, type VER
and press Enter to see the MS-DOS
version number.
CONFIG.SYS:
AUTOEXEC.BAT:
6-2
Troubleshooting
At the MS-DOS prompt, type
TYPE C: \CONFIG. SYS and press
Enter to see a listing of your system
configuration commands. At the MS-DOS prompt, type
TYPE C:\AUTOEXEC.BAT and press Enter to see a listing of your
system startup commands.
Loading...