Epson Equity 386-25 User Manual

FCC COMPLIANCE STATEMENT FOR AMERICAN USERS

This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class B
digital device, pursuant to Part 15 of the FCC Rules. These limits are designed to
provide reasonable protections against harmful interference in a residential

installation. This equipment generates, uses, and can radiate radio frequency energy

and, if not installed and used in accordance with the instructions, may cause harmful

interference to radio communications. However, there is no guarantee that

interference will not occur in a particular installation. If this equipment does cause
harmful interference to radio or television reception, which can be determined by
turning the equipment off and on, the user is encouraged to try to correct the

interference by one or more of the following measures:

l

Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna

l

Increase the separation between the equipment and the receiver

l

Connect the equipment to an outlet on a circuit different from that to which
the receiver is connected

l

Consult the dealer or an experienced radio/TV technician for help.

You may find the following booklet prepared by the Federal Communications
Commission helpful:

“Television Interference Handbook”

This booklet is available from the U.S. Government Printing Office, Washington DC

20402. Stock No. 004-000-00450-7

Note: If the interference stops, it was probably caused by the computer or its periph­eral devices. To further isolate the problem:

Disconnect the peripheral devices and their input/output cables one at a time. If the

interference stops, it is caused by either the peripheral device or its I/O cable. These
devices usually require shielded I/O cables. For Epson peripheral devices, you can
obtain the proper shielded cable from your dealer. For non-Epson peripheral devices,
contact the manufacturer or dealer for assistance.

WARNING: This equipment has been certified to comply with the limits for a
Class B computing device, pursuant to Subpart B of Part 15 of FCC Rules. Only
peripherals (computer input/output devices, terminals, printers, etc.) certified to
comply with the Class B limits may be attached to this computer. Operation with
noncertified peripherals is likely to result in interference to radio and TV

reception.
The connection of a nonshielded equipment interface cable to this equipment will

invalidate the FCC Certification of this device and may cause interference levels

that exceed the limits established by the FCC for this equipment.

This digital apparatus does not exceed the Class B limits for radio noise emissions
from digital apparatus as set out in the radio interference regulations of the Canadian

Department of Communications.

Le present appareil numérique n’émet pas de bruits radioélectriques dépassant les

limites applicables aux appareils numériques de Classe B prescrites dans le règlement
sur le brouillage radioélectriques édicté par le Ministère des Communications du
Canada.

EPSON”

User’s Guide

Y19399100100

IMPORTANT NOTICE

Y19399100100

DISCLAIMER OF WARRANTY
Epson America makes no representations or warranties, either express or implied, by
or with respect to anything in this manual, and shall not be liable for any implied
warranties of merchantability and fitness for a particular purpose or for any indirect,
special, or consequential damages. Some states do not allow the exclusion of
incidental or consequential damages, so this exclusion may not apply to you.

COPYRIGHT NOTICE

All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in a
retrieval system, or transmitted, in any form or by any means, electronic, mechanical,
photocopying, recording, or otherwise, without the prior written permission of Epson
America, Inc. No patent liability is assumed with respect to the use of information
contained herein. While every precaution has been taken in the preparation of this
publication, Epson America assumes no responsibility for errors or omissions. Nor is
any liability assumed for damages resulting from the use of the information contained
herein. Further, this publication and features described herein are subject to change
without notice.

TRADEMARKS

Epson is a registered trademark of Seiko Epson Corporation.
Equity is a trademark of Epson America, Inc.
Centronics is a registered trademark of Centronics Data Corporation.
Hercules is a registered trademark of Hercules Computer Technology Corporation.

IBM is a registered trademark and PS/2, AT, and XT are trademarks of International
Business Machines Corporation.

Intel is a registered trademark of Intel Corporation.
Lotus and 1-2-3 are registered trademarks of Lotus Development Corporation.
Microsoft, MS-DOS, and MS are registered trademarks of Microsoft Corporation.
Paradise is a trademark of Paradise Systems, Inc.
Weitek is a registered trademark of Weitek Corporation.

Copyright © 1989 by Epson America, Inc.

Torrance, California

IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS

1.

Read all of these instructions and save them for later reference.

2.

Follow all warnings and instructions marked on the product.

3.

Unplug this product from the wall outlet before cleaning. Do not
use liquid cleaners or aerosol cleaners. Use a damp cloth for
cleaning.

Do not use this product near water.

4.

5.

Do not place this product on an unstable cart, stand, or table.

The product may fall, causing serious damage to the product.

6.

Slots and openings in the cabinet and the back or bottom are

provided for ventilation; to ensure reliable operation of the

product and to protect it from overheating, these openings must

not be blocked or covered. The openings should never be
blocked by placing the product on a bed, sofa, rug, or other
similar surface. This product should never be placed near or over
a radiator or heat register. This product should not be placed in a
built-in installation unless proper ventilation is provided.

This product should be operated from the type of power source

7.
indicated on the marking label. If you are not sure of the type of
power available, consult your dealer or local power company.

This product is equipped with a 3-wire grounding-type plug, a

8.
plug having a third (grounding) pin. This plug will only fit into a
grounding-type power outlet. This is a safety feature. If you are
unable to insert the plug into the outlet, contact your electrician
to replace your obsolete outlet. Do not defeat the purpose of the
grounding-type plug.

9.

Do not locate this product where the cord will be walked on.

10. If an extension cord is used with this product, make sure that the
total of the ampere ratings on the products plugged into the ex-

tension cord do not exceed the extension cord ampere rating.
Also, make sure that the total of all products plugged into the
wall outlet does not exceed 15 amperes.

iii

11. Never push objects of any kind into this product through cabinet
slots, as they may touch dangerous voltage points or short out
parts that could result in a risk of fire or electric shock. Never
spill liquid of any kind on the product.

12. Except as specifically explained in the User’s Manual, do not
attempt to service this product yourself. Opening or removing
those covers that are marked “Do Not Remove” may expose you
to dangerous voltage points or other risks. Refer all servicing in
those compartments to service personnel.

13. Unplug this product from the wall outlet and refer servicing to
qualified service personnel under the following conditions:

A.

When the power cord or plug is damaged or frayed.

B.

If liquid has been spilled into the product.

C.

If the product has been exposed to rain or water.

If the product does not operate normally when the operating

D.

instructions are followed. Adjust only those controls that
are covered by the operating instructions, since improper
adjustment of other controls may result in damage and will
often require extensive work by a qualified technician to
restore the product to normal operation.

iv

E.

If the product has been dropped or the cabinet has been
damaged.

F.

If the product exhibits a distinct change in performance,
indicating a need for service.

Contents

Introduction

How to Use This Manual
Where to Get Help

Chapter 1

1 Unpacking

Removing the Diskette Drive Protector Card
2 Choosing a Location.
3 Connecting a Monitor
4 Connecting a Printer or Other Device.

Using the Parallel Interface

Using the Serial Interface

Using the Mouse Connector
5 Connecting the Power Cord.
6 Connecting the Keyboard
7 Turning On the Computer.

Chapter 2 Running the Setup Program

Automatic Configuration
Starting the Setup Program.

Continuing From an Error Message

Moving the Cursor Block.
Setting the Extended Memory Caching.
Setting the Display Adapter Card Type

Setting the Power-on Password
Setting the Fast Boot Function.
Setting the Auto Speed Function.
Setting the Shadow RAM Function.

Setting Up Your System

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3
5

l-l
1-3
1-4
l-5
l-8
l-8
1-11
l-12
l-13
l-14
1-16

2-2
2-3
2-5
2-7
2-7
2-10
2-12
2-14
2-16
2-18

Setting the Real-time Clock

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

Setting the Hard Disk Drive Configuration.
Setting the Diskette Drive Type(s)
Reviewing Your Settings.
Leaving the Setup Menu.

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2-19
2-22
2-27
2-29
2-31

Chapter 3

Installing MS-DOS
Using a Power-on Password

Changing a Power-on Password

Deleting a Power-on Password
Locking the Computer
Selecting the Operating Speed
Controlling the Volume

Using the Equity 386/25

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

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Special Keys on the Equity 386/25 Keyboard.

Stopping a Command or Program

Resetting the Computer

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Using the Equity 386/25 as a Network Server

Using a Password in Network Server Mode.
Changing a Password in Network Server Mode

Using Disks and Disk Drives

How Disks Store Data
Types of Diskette Drives

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

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

Caring for Diskettes and Diskette Drives.

Inserting and Removing Diskettes.

Write-protecting Diskettes.

Making Backup Copies.
Using a Single Diskette Drive
Using Two Diskette Drives
Using a Hard Disk Drive

Turning Off the Computer

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3-1
3-2

3-3
3-4
3-5

3-6
3-7

3-8
3-10

3-10
3-12
3-13
3-14
3-15
3-16
3-18
3-20
3-22
3-24
3-25

3-26
3-27
3-28
3-30

Chapter 4 Using MS-DOS With Your Equity 386/25

Starting MS-DOS
Using Drive Designators

The Current Drive
Types of MS-DOS Commands
Entering an MS-DOS Command
Setting the Date and Time
Creating and Managing Files

Naming Files.

Copying Files

Renaming Files

Deleting Files

Printing Text Files
Using Directories.

The Current Directory

Changing the Current Directory

Using Pathnames

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Including Filenames With Pathnames.
Including Drive Letters With Pathnames and

Filenames

Creating Directories

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Listing the Contents of a Directory
Displaying a List of Directories
Removing Directories.

Formatting Diskettes.

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

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

Using the FORMAT Command

Backing Up Data.

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

Using the DISKCOPY Command
Using the BACKUP Command.

The MS-DOS Shell Program

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

Using the Epson HELP Program.
Using the Epson MENU Program.

Menu Program Options

.......................... 4-39

Using an AUTOEXEC.BAT File

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

Creating an AUTOEXEC.BAT File
Using the Video Shadow RAM Function
Using Memory Beyond 640KB

Using EMM386.SYS

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4-2
4-3
4-4
4-5
4-7
4-8
4-9
4-9
4-11
4-14
4-15
4-16
4-16
4-19
4-19
4-20
4-21

4-21
4-23
4-23
4-25
4-27
4-27
4-28
4-30
4-31
4-34
4-35
4-35
4-37

4-40
4-41

4-43
4-47

4-49

vii

Chapter 5

Installing Options

Adding Memory Modules . . . . . .

Installing Option Cards . . . . . . .

Removing the Cover . . . . .

Installing an Option Card .
Removing an Option Card.

Replacing the Cover. . . . . .

Post-installation Setup . . . . . . . .

Appendix A

Changing Jumper Settings

Changing Jumper and DIP Switch Settings

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

Changing DIP Switch Settings.

Removing the SPF Card

Setting the DIP Switches

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

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

Setting the SPF Card Jumpers
Setting the Main System Board Jumpers

Replacing the SPF Card

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

Appendix B Troubleshooting

Error Messages
The Computer Won’t Start
The Computer Locks Up

Password Problems

Removing a Password

Setting a New Password
Keyboard Problems
Monitor Problems
Diskette Problems
Diskette Drive Problems

Hard Disk Problems
Software Problems.
Printer Problems
Option Card Problems

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5-2
5-5
5-6
5-9
5-14

5-15
5-16

A-2
A-6
A-9
A-11
A-12
A-13
A-14

B-l

B-2
B-3
B-4
B-5
B-7
B-8
B-9
B-11

B-14
B-14
B-17
B-19
B-21

Appendix C Power-on Diagnostics

Power-on Diagnostics Error Codes and Messages Table . . . . .

Appendix D

Starting System Diagnostics
Selecting an Option
Modifying the Device List.
Selecting a Test.

Resuming From an Error

Performing System Diagnostics

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System Board Check. ................................

Memory Check

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Keyboard Check ....................................

Monochrome Display Adapter and CRT Check

Monochrome Adapter Check

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Attribute Check ................................

Character Set Check ............................

Video Check ...................................

Sync Check
Run All Above Checks

Color Graphics Adapter and CRT Check

Color Graphics Adapter Check.

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Attribute Check. ...............................

Character Set Check ............................

40-column Character Set Check
320x200 Graphics Mode Check
640x200 Graphics Mode Check

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Screen Paging Check ............................

Light Pen Check ................................

Color Video Check

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Sync Check ....................................

Run All Above Checks

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C-2

D-2
D-3
D-4
D-6
D-8
D-9
D-10
D-11
D-13

D-13
D-14
D-14
D-15
D-15
D-15
D-16
D-16
D-17
D-17
D-18
D-19
D-20
D-21
D-22
D-23
D-23
D-24

ix

Diskette Drives and Controller Check.

Sequential Seek Check
Random Seek Check
Write, Read Check.

Disk Change Check

Run All Above Checks

Math Coprocessor Check

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Parallel Port (Printer Interface) Check

Alternate Parallel Port Check

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Parallel Port (on Video Adapter) Check
Serial Port (RS-232C Port) Check.

Alternate Serial Port Check

Dot-matrix Printer Check.

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Hard Disk Drive(s) and Controller Check.

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Seek Check ....................................

Write, Read Check.
Read, Verify Check
Run All Above Checks

Error Codes and Messages

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D-24
D-25
D-26
D-26
D-27
D-28
D-28

D-29
D-29
D-30
D-30
D-32
D-32
D-34
D-34
D-35
D-36
D-37
D-38

Appendix E

Choosing the Type of Format.

Reformatting a Used Disk

Formatting a New Disk
Selecting an Option
Starting the Formatting Process.

Option 1, Format.

Physically Formatting a Hard Disk

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Modifying the Defective Track Table
Formatting the Disk

Option 2, Destructive Surface Analysis

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Option 3, Non-destructive Surface Analysis

Exiting the Hard Disk Format Menu

X

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E-2
E-3
E-4
E-4
E-4

E-5
E-7
E-9

E-10

E-12

E-13

Appendix F

Hard Disk Drive Types

Hard Disk Drive Types Table . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Appendix G

CPU and Memory.
Controllers.

Interfaces
Power Supply
Mass Storage

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

Environmental Requirements.
Physical Characteristics

Glossary

Index

Specifications

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F- 1

G-l
G-2
G-2
G-3
G-3
G-4
G-4

G-4

xi

Introduction

The Epson® Equity™ 386/25
computer which offers exceptional speed and expandability.
The computer’s 25 MHz 80386
programs run extremely fast, even when supporting multitasking
operations.

The Equity 386/25 is available in these configurations:

A single diskette drive system with a 1.2MB (megabyte)
5 ¼-inch diskette drive

A hard disk drive system with one 40MB or 100MB hard
disk and a 1.2MB diskette drive.

You can install an additional diskette drive and hard disk drive,

up to a maximum of four drives total (configurable using five
half-height mass storage slots).

All models of the Equity 386/25 include 2MB of internal
memory, nine standard option slots (six 16-bit and three 8-bit),
serial and parallel interfaces, and an IBM® PS/2™- compatible
mouse port. You can easily upgrade your computer by installing
additional memory and adding optional devices.

is a high-performance personal

microprocessor makes all your

Because of its industry-standard architecture, the Equity 386/25

is fully compatible with the current installed base of personal
computer hardware and software. You can install just about any
optional device that is compatible with the IBM Personal
Computer, PC XT,™ or PC AT.™

You can expand the computer’s memory up to 16MB by
adding memory modules to a special card that comes with your
computer. Memory modules are efficient because they eliminate

the need to use one of your option slots to add memory to your
system.

Introduction 1

You may also want to install a math coprocessor in your
computer to speed up mathematical calculations. You can add
an Intel® 80387 or a Weitek® 3167 (25 MHz) math coprocessor;
or you can add both by installing a Weitek dual-processor

adapter. Check with your authorized Epson dealer to see which

options are available.

The Equity 386/25 ffoers several other features to enhance the
speed and security of your computer:

Memory caching. Portions of your system memory are
copied to a high-speed cache buffer so your computer can
access programs and data very quickly.

Shadow RAM. This feature allows you to copy areas of
ROM (read-only memory) into the computer’s 32-bit RAM
(random access memory) to further accelerate system
performance.

Password protection. This optional feature ensures that no
one may access your computer without entering the correct
password.

Automatic configuration. The Setup program automatically
configures the memory and other items included in your
system, making it easier for you to get started.

Your Equity 386/25
operating system by Microsoft.® This version of MS-DOS

includes a Shell program, which lets you run MS-DOS

commands by selecting options from on-screen menus. You’ll
find a set of MS-DOS manuals packed in the box with the
computer.

You probably also purchased other software; you can use

virtually any application program designed for the IBM PC,

PC XT, PC AT, or compatible computers on your

Equity 386/25.
such as Microsoft Windows/386—with your computer.

2 Introduction

comes with version 4.01 of MS-DOS,® the

Y

may also use powerful 32-bit software—

ou

Additionally, Epson has included two time-saving utilities that
make MS-DOS easier to use: HELP and MENU. The HELP
program lets you display information on the screen about any
MS-DOS command. MENU provides an easy way to run many
useful MS-DOS commands.

MS-DOS is not the only operating system you can use with
your computer. If you have a hard disk you also may want to
use MS® OS/2. A
multitasking, dual-mode processing, and online help. With
Epson’s version of MS OS/2, you can have both MS-DOS and
MS OS/2 on your Equity 386/25; this way, you can select which
operating system to load each time you turn on the computer.
Ask your Epson dealer for more information.

mong other capabilities, MS OS/2 provides

How to Use This Manual

This manual explains how to set up and care for your
Equity 386/25. It also describes how to use your computer and
run diagnostics checks. You probably do not need to read
everything in this book; see the following chapter summaries.

Chapter 1 provides simple step-by-step instructions for setting
up your system. On the back cover foldout are illustrations

identifying the different parts of your computer; you may want
to refer to this while setting up your system.

Chapter 2 describes how to run the Setup program to define

your computer’s configuration. You must do this before you use
your computer. You may need to do it again later, if you change
the configuration.

Chapter 3 provides instructions for performing important
operating procedures, including using and caring for your disks
and disk drives.

Introduction 3

Chapter 4 provides basic instructions for using MS-DOS with

your computer.

Chapter 5 describes some of the options you can use in your
Equity 386/25 and contains instructions for removing the
computer’s cover and installing option cards.

Appendix A describes the jumpers and DIP switches inside your
computer. If you install options or need to modify the way your
computer operates, you may need to change one or more of
these settings.

Appendix B contains troubleshooting tips in case you encounter
any problems while using your computer.

Appendix C provides information about the power-on
diagnostics.

Appendix D outlines the system diagnostics checks you can
perform on your computer. If you are having trouble with any
part of the hardware, you may want to run some of these
diagnostics checks.

Appendix E describes how to perform a hardware-level format
on a hard disk. You need to do this only if you have installed a
new hard disk that has never received this type of low-level
format, or if you are having serious problems with the hard disk

in your computer. (This is not the same type of format you can

perform with the MS-DOS FORMAT command.)

Appendix F lists the types of hard disk drives you can use in the
Equity 386/25.

Appendix G gives the technical specifications for the computer.

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

4 Introduction

Where to Get Help

Customer support and service for Epson products are provided
by a network of authorized Epson dealers and Customer Care

Centers throughout the United States. Epson America provides

product information and support to its dealers and Customer
Care Centers.

Therefore, we ask that you contact the business where you
purchased your Epson product to request assistance. If the
people there do not have the answer to your question, they can
obtain it through our toll-free dealer support program.

Epson is confident that this policy will provide you with the
assistance you need.

Call the Epson Consumer Information Center at

1-800-922-8911 for the following:

 The nearest Epson deale

The nearest Customer Care Center

Information on Epson User Groups.

To locate or purchase accessories or supplies, contact your
nearest Epson dealer or call l-800-873-7766.

Introduction 5

Chapter 1

Setting Up Your System

Setting up your Epson Equity 386/25 personal computer is easy.

Just follow the seven steps in this chapter. As you set up your

computer, you may want to leave this manual’s back cover

foldout open so you can refer to the two illustrations identifying

the different parts of the computer.

Unpacking

1

As you remove your system components from their cartons, be
sure to inspect each piece. If anything is missing or looks

damaged, check with your Epson dealer.

Setting Up Your System

1-1

Besides this manual, you should have the following:

The computer and power cord

The keyboard with attached cable

Two keys for locking the computer

Six MS-DOS 4.01 diskettes: Install, Operating 1,
Operating 2, Operating 3, Shell, and Select

A Reference diskette

Four MS-DOS manuals: an Installation Guide, a Shell
User’s Guide, a Reference Manual, and a Command
Summary.

In addition to these items, you need a compatible monitor and

display adapter card. You may also have a printer or other

peripheral device.

You’ll find a warranty card and a registration card with the

computer. Keep the warranty card for your records. Fill out the

registration card now and mail it to Epson. With your

registration card on file, Epson can send you update

information.

Be sure to keep your packing materials. They provide the best

protection for your computer if you need to transport it later.

1-2

Setting Up Your System

Removing the Diskette Drive Protector Card

There is a protector card in the diskette slot of your 5 ¼-inch
diskette drive. This card is inserted at the factory to protect the
read/write heads in the drive. To remove it, turn the diskette
drive latch up until it is horizontal. This causes the card to pop
out slightly so you can pull it out of the slot, as shown below.

(If you have a second 5 ¼-inch diskette drive, be sure to remove
the card from that drive as well.)

Save the protector card and reinsert it whenever you move the

computer. If you don’t plan to use your computer for a week or

more, reinsert the card to help prevent dust from entering the

drive.

Setting Up Your

System

1-3

Choosing a Location

2

Before you set up your computer, it’s important to choose a
comfortable, convenient location where it can run properly.
Select a location that provides the following:

A large, sturdy desk or table that can easily support the
weight of your system, including all its components.

A flat, hard surface. Soft surfaces like beds and carpeted
floors attract static electricity, which can erase data on your
disks and damage the computer’s circuitry. Soft surfaces also
prevent proper ventilation.

Good air circulation. Air must be able to move freely under
the system as well as behind it. Leave several inches of space
around the computer to allow ventilation.

Moderate environmental conditions. Protect your computer
from extremes in temperature, humidity, dust, and smoke.
Avoid direct sunlight or any other source of heat. High
humidity also hinders operation, so select a cool, dry area.

Appropriate power sources. To prevent static charges,
connect all your equipment to three-prong, 120-volt

grounded outlets. You need one outlet for the computer, one

for the monitor, and additional outlets for a printer and any

other peripherals. You can plug one peripheral into the
auxiliary power outlet on the back panel of the computer,
reducing the number of wall outlets you need.

No electromagnetic interference. Locate your system away
from any electrical device, such as a telephone, that
generates an electromagnetic field.

1-4

Setting Up Your System

Connecting a Monitor

3

The procedure you use to connect your monitor to the
computer depends on the type of monitor you have. See your
monitor manual for detailed instructions and follow the general
guidelines below.

A monitor requires that a display adapter (video) card be

installed inside the computer to control it. Your dealer may

have already installed a video card for you; if not, you need to

install it before you can connect the monitor to the computer.
See Chapter 5 for instructions on how to remove the computer’s
cover and install an option card (a video card in this case).

First, check the following table to make sure your video card

and monitor match.

Monitor/video card compatibility

Setting Up Your System

1-5

After your video card is installed, follow these steps to connect
the monitor to the computer:

Place your monitor on top of or near the computer. It is
easiest to connect the monitor cable if the backs of the
monitor and the computer are facing you.

If necessary, connect the monitor cable to the monitor.

(Some monitors come with permanently attached cables.)

Connect the appropriate end of the monitor cable to the

video card connector on the back of the computer, as

shown below. If the plug has retaining screws, tighten them

by hand or with a screwdriver, depending on the screw type.

If there are any switches or jumpers on the video card (for

4.

example, to indicate color or monochrome), be sure they

are set properly. (See the documentation that came with

your monitor or video card for instructions.)

1-6

Setting Up Your System

5.

Plug the monitor’s power cord into the monitor’s power
inlet, as shown below.

6.

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

Setting Up Your System

1-7

Connecting a Printer or Other Device

4

The Equity 386/25has a parallel interface, a serial interface, and
an auxiliary mouse connector. To connect a printer or other
peripheral device to one of these interfaces, follow the

instructions below. Of course, Epson offers a full range of

printers; check with your dealer for more information.

Using the Parallel Interface

The parallel interface on your computer is Centronics®­compatible and uses a DB-25S connector.

To connect a printer to the computer, you need an IBM­compatible printer cable. If you are not sure which one you

need, check with your Epson dealer.

Once you have the correct printer cable, follow these steps to
connect your printer to the parallel interface on the computer:

1.

Be sure the power switches on the computer, monitor, and
printer are off.

2.

Place the printer next to the computer.

Setting Up Your System

1-8

3.

One end of the printer cable has a 25-pin, D-shell, male
connector. Connect this end to the parallel port on the
back panel of the computer, as shown below. If the plug has
retaining screws, tighten them by hand or with a
screwdriver, depending on the screw type.

Setting Up Your System

1-9

4.

Connect the other end of the cable to the printer, as shown
below. To secure the cable, squeeze the clips at each side of
the printer port and push them into place.

5.

Plug the printer’s power cord into an electrical outlet.

1-10

Setting Up Your System

Using the Serial Interface

If you have a printer, a modem, or any other peripheral with a
serial interface, you can connect it to the serial (RS-232C) port
on the back of the computer.

The Equity 386/25

uses a DB-9P male connector, so be sure you
have a compatible cable. To connect a serial device, follow the
same steps as above for connecting a parallel device.

Setting Up Your System

1-11

Using the Mouse Connector

Your computer has an auxiliary port for a PS/2™- compatible
mouse that uses a mini DIN (6-pin) connector. To connect a
mouse to the built-in mouse port and set up the computer to use
it, see the manual that comes with the mouse. To use a mouse
with your computer, you may need to add commands to your
MS-DOS CONFIG.SYS file. See your MS-DOS Reference
Manual for instructions.

1-12

Setting Up Your System

Connecting the Power Cord

5

Follow these steps to connect the power cord:

1.

Make sure the power switch on the computer is turned off.

2.

Plug the power cord into the AC power inlet on the back
panel, as shown below. To avoid an electric shock, be sure
to plug the cord into the computer before plugging it into
the wall socket.

3.

Plug the other end of the power cord into a three-prong,

120-volt, grounded electrical outlet.

Setting Up Your System

1-13

Connecting the Keyboard

6

Follow these steps to connect the keyboard:

1.

Turn the computer around so the front is facing you.

2.

Open the door on the lower left corner of the computer’s
front panel by pressing it in slightly and then releasing it.

1-14

Setting Up Your System

3.

Plug the keyboard cable into the socket, as shown below.
Do not force the connector, but be sure to insert it all the
way. Guide the keyboard cable through the notch on the
left side of the panel.

4.

Close the panel access door.

Setting Up Your System

1-15

You can change the angle of the keyboard by adjusting the legs
on the bottom. Turn the keyboard over and lift each leg upward
until it locks into place, as shown below. You can lock the legs

to a low or high position, or leave them flat.

Turning On the Computer

7

After you set up your system, you’re ready to turn on the power.
But first, read the following safety rules to avoid accidentally
damaging your computer or injuring yourself:

1-16

Never turn on the computer with a protector card in the
diskette drive.

Do not dismantle any part of the computer. Only remove
the cover to access optional devices or change jumper or
DIP switch settings. If there is a hardware problem you
cannot solve after reading the troubleshooting information
in Appendix B, contact your Epson dealer.

Always turn off the power, disconnect the computer’s
power cord, and wait five seconds before you remove the

computer’s cover.

Do not unplug cables from the computer when the power
is on.

Setting Up Your

System

Never turn off or reset your computer while a disk drive

light is on. This can destroy data stored on disk or make an
entire disk unusable.

Always wait at least five seconds after you turn off the
power before you turn it on again. Turning the power off
and on rapidly can damage the computer’s circuitry.

Do not leave a beverage on top of or next to your system or
any of its components. Spilled liquid can damage the
circuitry of your components.

Follow these steps to turn on your system:

1.

Make sure the power cord is plugged into the AC power
inlet on the back panel of the computer and into a three­prong, 120-volt, grounded electrical outlet.

2.

Turn on the monitor, printer, and any other peripheral
devices connected to the computer. (Always turn on the
monitor and any peripheral devices before you turn on the
computer.)

3.

To turn on the power, locate the power switch on the right
side of the computer, near the back. Flip the switch up to
the ON position.

Setting Up Your System

1-17

The power indicator on the front panel lights up. After a few

seconds, the computer starts to perform an internal self test.
This is a series of checks the computer completes each time you
turn it on to make sure everything is working correctly. If
anything is wrong, an error message appears on the screen.

You see a message prompting you to insert a system diskette.
(Do not insert a diskette at this point.)

If you cannot see the screen display clearly, use the controls on
your monitor to adjust the brightness and contrast until
characters on the screen are clear and bright. If the display is
not stable, check your monitor’s horizontal and vertical hold
controls.

After you adjust the monitor’s brightness and contrast, flip the
power switch down to turn off the computer. Then turn off the
monitor and any peripherals.

Now go on to Chapter 2 and follow the instructions there to
run the Setup program. After you run Setup, you need to install

MS-DOS using the instructions in your MS-DOS Installation

Guide.

1-18 Setting Up Your System

Chapter 2

Running the Setup Program

The first time you use your Equity 386/25, you need to run the
Setup program on the Reference diskette to define the
computer’s configuration. This is a simple procedure you must
do at least once. (You may need to do it again later, if you
change the configuration.)

The Setup program automatically configures parts of your
system and lets you set (or change) the following for your
computer:

Extended memory caching

Type of display adapter (video) card installed

Power-on password

Fast boot function

Auto speed function

Shadow RAM function

Real-time clock’s time and date

Hard disk drive configuration

Diskette drive type(s).

The configuration you define with the Setup program is stored

in the computer’s CMOS RAM, which is permanent because it
is backed up by a battery. Whenever you turn on the computer,
it searches the CMOS RAM for the correct installation
information. If the computer discovers a difference between the
information in the CMOS RAM and its actual configuration, it
prompts you to run the Setup program.

Running

the Setup Program

2-1

Automatic Configuration

The Equity 386/25 automatically defines your system’s memory
configuration and recognizes a math coprocessor, if you have

installed one. It also detects and configures most of the devices
you may have installed in your system. For this reason, it may
not be necessary for you to change any of the default settings in
the Setup program. However, you should check each of the
options on the Setup menu to verify that the settings are correct
for your system.

You do not need to configure your computer’s memory using the

Setup program. The computer automatically configures the

2MB of memory that comes with your system as 640KB of base

memory and 1024KB of extended memory. If you install even

more memory, Setup configures it as extended memory also.

2-2 Running the Setup Program

Starting the Setup Program

Follow these steps to start the Setup program:

1.

Turn off your computer, monitor, and any peripheral

devices, if you have not already done so.

2.

Insert the Reference diskette into drive A with the label
facing up and the read/write slot leading into the drive, as
shown below.

Slide the diskette into the drive until it is in all the way.
Then turn the latch down to lock it in a vertical position.

(For more instructions on inserting and removing diskettes,

see Chapter 3.)

Running

the Setup Program 2-3

3.

Turn on your system. (Remember to turn on your monitor
and any peripherals before you turn on the computer.) The
screen displays the Operation Menu:

4. The Setup option is highlighted. To select it, press

Enter. The screen displays the main Setup menu:

Exit

Cache

Display

Password

Fast boot

Auto speed

Shadow RAM
Real-time clock
Hard disk drive
Diskette

drive

2-4

Running the Setup Program

Continuing From an Error Message

If your computer has never been set up, you may see an error
message, such as the following:

162 - System options not set

(Run SETUP in REFERENCE DISK)

(Resume = "Fl" key)

If you see an error message like this one, follow these steps to
proceed:

1.

Press F1. The computer beeps and the screen displays
messages, such as the following:

The error

message following the diamond indicates the

condition causing the error. There may be more than one

error listed in the message. Here are the error messages you
may see:

Running the

Setup

Program

2-5

Some errors, such as Time is invalid , do not allow
you to set a default value, so the screen does not display the

Set default value prompt. If you see one of these
errors, press ESC; the screen displays the main Setup menu
so you can enter a new setting.

Be sure Y is highlighted and press Enter. The Setup

2.
program changes the setting that caused the error to a
setting that is more likely to match your system
configuration. The screen displays the main Setup menu:

Exit

Cache

Display

Password

Fast boot
Auto speed
Shadow RAM

Real-time clock
Hard disk drive
Diskette drive

2-6

You should check all the settings in the Setup program to
make sure they are correct for your system. The default
value for the setting that caused the error may not be the
correct one for your particular configuration.

Running the Setup Program

Moving the Cursor Block

Use and to move the cursor block (the highlighted bar)

through the options on the main Setup menu. After you
highlight the option you want, you can press Enter to select it.

Follow the instructions in the rest of this chapter to use the
Setup program to define your computer’s configuration.

Setting the Extended Memory Caching

Extended memory caching allows your system to work much
faster. When you cache portions of memory, the system copies
information from that memory into a high-speed cache buffer.
Your system can find information more quickly in the cache
buffer than when it looks for it in the system memory. This
greatly improves the speed at which your system performs.

Running the Setup

Program

2-7

The Equity 386/25 automatically enables memory caching for
the 640KB of base memory in your system. For the memory
above lMB, the Setup program allows you to turn extended

memory caching on or off. The default setting for extended
memory caching is on for all the extended memory currently
installed in your system. If you have not installed memory above
the 2MB that came with your computer, caching is turned on in
the area from 1MB to 2MB. If you added more memory, Setup
turns on caching from 1MB up to the maximum amount of

memory that you installed.

Most of the time, you should cache all of your extended memory
to maximize the performance of your 32-bit computer.

However, if you install an optional memory card that “shares”

memory with any of the rest of your system memory, you should
turn caching off in the areas of memory which are shared. See
the manual that came with your memory card to see if this is
the case.

To check or change the extended memory cache setting, follow
these steps:

1.

At the main Setup menu, highlight

Cache . You see the

following submenu and cache table:

2-8

Running the Setup Program

The table indicates the cachable range of extended memory
currently installed in your system. You see ON or OFF in the
first area because your system comes with 2MB of memory and

the extended memory area from 1MB to 2MB is cachable. If you

installed additional memory, you see ON or OFF in all the areas
of memory you have installed. The shaded areas indicate ranges
of memory that are not installed, and are not cachable at this
time.

If your extended memory cache setting is correct, you can skip
the rest of this section.

2.

Press Enter. The cursor block moves to Extended
memory caching and*** SAVE SETTING ***

appears beneath it in the submenu.

3.

Press Enter again. The cursor block moves to the first range
in the cache table. To change the setting for the first
cachable range from ON to OFF or vice versa, press Enter.

4.

If you have not installed memory above 2MB, the rest of
the box is shaded. Press T to move the cursor block to the
submenu.

If you installed memory above 2MB, press to move the
cursor block to the next cachable range. Press Enter to
change the setting from

ON

to

OFF,

if necessary.

Then press t to move to the previous cachable range or
to move to the next range. When you are finished, press
to move the cursor block to the submenu.

5.

After you set your extended memory cache, highlight

*** SAVE SETTING *** and press Enter to return

to the Setup menu.

Running the Setup Program

2-9

Setting the Display Adapter Card Type

Follow the steps below to set the type of display adapter (video)
card you are using with your Equity 386/25.

1.

At the main Setup menu, highlight Display . You see
the current display adapter card type, such as the following:

Most of the time, the Setup program detects the exact type
of display adapter card you have installed. If the display
adapter card type is correct for your system, you can skip
this section.

2.

To change the display adapter card setting, press Enter. The
cursor block moves into the submenu and you see:

2-10

Running the Setup Program

3.

Press Enter to move the cursor block into this submenu and

then use or to highlight the option that matches your

display adapter card. If you are not sure which one to

choose, follow these guidelines:

If you have a VGA, EGA, or MCGA card, select the
last option.

If you have a color graphics adapter (CGA) or a multi-

graphics adapter (MGA) attached to an RGB (color)

monitor, select CGA 80 column . (Also be sure to

set the color/mono switch on the MGA card to color.)

If you have a composite color monitor, such as a color
television with a video input, try selecting CGA 80
column . If the resulting resolution is poor, run Setup
again and select CGA 40 column.

If you have a monochrome display adapter (MDA), an
MGA, or a Hercules MGA attached to a monochrome
monitor, choose Monochrome 80 column.
(Also be sure to set the color/mono switch on the MGA
card to mono.)

If you have any other combination of monitor and
display adapter card, select EGA, MCGA, VGA or
other . In addition, consult the documentation
supplied with your display adapter card.

Note

Running the Setup Program

2-11

4.

After you highlight the appropriate display adapter card
type, press Enter. The screen displays your new display
adapter card setting.

5. Highlight * * * SAVE SETTING ** * and press Enter

to return to the main Setup menu.

Setting the Power-on Password

Setting a power-on password lets you control who can use your
computer. However, you do not need to set a power-on
password to use the Equity 386/25. If you do not want to set a

password, skip this section.

If you set a power-on password, you must enter it at the key

prompt ( ) the next time you turn on or reset your

computer. If you cannot enter it correctly, the computer locks
up and does not respond to your keyboard entries. Therefore, if
you set a power-on password, be sure to remember it or write it

down and keep it in a safe place.

If you want to use your computer as a network server, you can
set your password to operate in network server mode after you
enter the password. (See “Using the Equity 386/25 as a Network
Server” in Chapter 3 for more information.)

Follow these steps to set a power-on password and turn on
network server mode (if necessary):

1.

At the main Setup menu, highlight Password. This
submenu appears:

2-12

Running the Setup Program

2.

Press Enter. The cursor block moves to Power-on

password.

Note

If a password already exists, this message appears:

Power-on password already in

stalled

The Setup program does not allow you to enter a new

password if one already exists. However, you can easily
change or delete the current password if you know it. See
“Using a Power-on Password” in Chapter 3 for
instructions,

3.

Press Enter. You see this prompt:

To enter a password, type any combination of characters

(including letters, numbers, and blank spaces) up to a total
of seven characters. Use the backspace key to delete
mistakes.

Do not use characters requiring the SHIFT key, such as $,

@, or *,
the SHIFT key when you use your password to access the
system.

in your password. The computer does not recognize

WARNING

Be sure to remember the password you enter or write it
down and keep it in a safe place. If you cannot remember
the password you enter now, you will not be able to
access the computer the next rime you turn it on,

If you want to return to the password submenu without
saving any changes, press ESC.

Running the Setup Program 2-13

4.

After you enter a password, press Enter to return to the
password submenu.

5.

If you want to change the network server mode setting,
highlight Network server mode. To turn network
server mode on or off, press Enter.

The Setup program requires a power-on password to turn
network server mode on. If you did not yet enter a password,

this message appears:

Set a power-on password first

To enter a password, highlight Power-on password

and follow steps 3 and 4 above.

6.

After you enter a power-on password and turn network
server mode on or off, highlight

SETTINGS ****

Setup menu.

and press Enter to return to the main

* * * *

SAVE

Setting the Fast Boot Function

The Fast boot function allows you to start up your system faster
by reducing the time it takes the computer to perform its power­on diagnostics. Power-on diagnostics are a series of diagnostics
checks which your computer runs automatically each time you
turn on the power.

2-14

Running the Setup Program

When Fast boot is disabled, the diagnostics program performs
three different tests on your system’s memory and also checks
the internal devices in your computer. When you enable Fast
boot, the program performs abbreviated versions of these tests.

You should enable Fast boot when you are using your computer

in its current configuration.

If you install additional memory in
your computer, disable Fast boot before you make the change.
The next time you turn on your computer, it runs complete

power-on diagnostics, allowing you to test your new
configuration thoroughly. Then you can run the Setup program
to enable the Fast boot function again.

Follow these steps to change the Fast boot setting:

1. At the main Setup menu, highlight Fast boot and

press Enter. The current status appears:

If the displayed setting is correct, press to return to the
main Setup menu.

2.

To change the setting from enabled to disabled or vice
versa, press

Enter.

3. Highlight ** SAVE SETTING * * and press Enter to

return to the main Setup menu.

Running the Setup Program

2-15

Setting the Auto Speed Function

The Equity 386/25
speed is either 25 MHz or 24 MHz (depending on the setting of
an internal jumper). Low speed simulates an 8 MHz operating
speed. You can use the CPU SPEED switch on the computer’s
front panel to select either speed. (See “Selecting the Operating
Speed” in Chapter 3.)

You’ll probably use high speed for almost all your operations.
Some copy-protected application programs, however, require

the computer to run at the low 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 often, you may want to enable the Auto speed
function.

When Auto speed is enabled, the computer automatically
switches to low speed whenever it needs to access a diskette
drive. It runs at high

There are different types of copy-protected programs.
Depending on the type you have, you may or may not want to
enable the Auto speed function. Follow these guidelines:

can operate at two speeds: high or low. High

speed for all other operations.

2-16

If you are using a copy-protected program that can run only
on a diskette or that requires a key disk, try to start the
program on high speed. If this works, you do not need to
enable the Auto speed function.

If you can’t load the program on high, enable Auto speed.

If you are using a copy-protected program that does not
require a key disk but requires a special procedure to install

the program on a hard disk, set the CPU SPEED switch on

the front panel to LOW while you are installing the program.
Once it is installed, set the switch to HIGH, where you should

be able to leave it while you load and run the program.

Running

the Setup

Program

If this does not work, try loading the program at low speed
and then switch to high to run it. Do not enable the Auto
speed function.

Follow these steps to change the Auto speed setting:

1.

At the main Setup menu, highlight Auto speed and
press Enter. The current status appears:

If the displayed setting is correct, press to return to the
main Setup menu.

2.

To change the setting from disabled to enabled
or vice versa, press Enter.

3.

Highlight * * SAVE SETTING * * and press Enter to
return to the main Setup menu.

Running the Setup Program

2-17

Setting the Shadow RAM Function

Many computer systems can access RAM (random access
memory) faster than ROM (read-only memory). Your
Equity 386/25
copy data from the ROM BIOS to RAM so it can perform
certain operations faster. If you enable the shadow RAM
function through the Setup program, the computer
automatically copies the data stored in ROM to RAM
whenever you turn on or reset the computer.

Follow these steps to disable or enable shadow RAM:

1. Highlight Shadow RAM and press Enter. You see this

box:

If the displayed setting is correct, press to return to the

main menu.

p

rovides

a shadow RAM feature that enables it to

2.

To change the setting from enabled to disabled or vice
versa, press

3. Highlight * * SAVE SETTING ** and press Enter.

2-18

Running

Enter.

the Setup

Program

Setting the Real-time Clock

The real-time clock in your Equity 386/25 constantly tracks the

time and date-even when the computer is turned off. The first
time you run the Setup program, you use the Real-time

clock option to set the time and date for your computer. You
may need to use this option again later to adjust the time for
daylight savings time. The computer automatically changes the
date for leap years.

Follow these steps to set the real-time clock:

1.

At the main Setup menu, highlight Real-time

clock . If the time and date have been previously set, the

current settings appear:

If the time and date are correct, you can skip the rest of this
section.

If the time and date are incorrect, go to step 2 below.

If the time and date have never been set, the submenu
contains a template for you to fill in:

Go to step 2 to enter the time and date.

Running the Setup Program

2-19

2.

Press Enter to move the cursor block into the submenu.

3.

To set or change the time, press Enter again. You see this
prompt:

4.

Using a 24-hour time period, enter the time in the exact
format shown in the box. Type two digits for each part; the
Setup program automatically inserts the colons ( : ). For
example, to set the time to 1:30 p.m., you would type the
following:

133000

If you enter an invalid time-for example, a number greater
than 23 for the hours or greater than 59 for the minutes or

again.

When the time is correct, press

5.

To set or change the date, highlight Date and press

Enter.

6.

Enter the date in the exact format shown in the box. Use
two digits for the month and day and four digits for the year;
the Setup program automatically inserts the dashes. For
example, to set the date for March 29, 1990, you would type
the following:

03291990

You can use the backspace key to make corrections.

If you enter an invalid date-for example, a number greater
than 12 for the month or greater than the number of days in
that month-the computer beeps and ignores your entry.

Try again.

When the date is correct, press Enter.

7.

Check the new time and date to be sure they are correct.

Then press once or twice to return to the main Setup

menu.

Running the

Setup Program

2-21

Setting the Hard Disk Drive Configuration

If your computer came with a 40MB or 100MB hard disk, your
computer’s hard disk configuration has already been set for you
at the factory and you can skip this section.

If you installed or removed a hard disk, follow these steps to set
the computer’s hard disk configuration:

1. At the main Setup menu, highlight Hard disk
drive . Your current settings appear:

The Type number indicates the type of hard disk
installed in your computer. See Appendix F for a list of hard
disk drive types, and the documentation supplied with your
hard disk to find the correct type for the hard disk drive

installed in your computer.

The None after Drive 2 indicates that there is not a
second hard disk.

2-22

If the displayed settings match your hard disk configuration,
you can skip the rest of this section.

If a setting is incorrect, or if you want to see more details

about your hard disk configuration, go to step 2.

Running the Setup Program

2. To select Hard disk drive , press Enter. You see a

menu such as the following:

The submenu lists the settings you can change for each
drive: the number of cylinders (tracks), the number of read/
write heads, the number of sectors, the precompensation
cylinder, the landing zone (the cylinder on which you want

to park the heads when moving the computer), and the
total storage capacity in megabytes.

3.

If you want to change the settings for drive 1 (which is
drive C on most computers), press Enter to highlight
Drive 1:. If you want to change the settings for drive 2,

press Enter and then to highlight Drive 2 :

4.

Press Enter. You see this submenu:

5.

If you want to change the drive type and the configuration
of the hard disk you are installing matches one of the drive
types listed in Appendix F, go to step 6.

Running the Setup Program

2-23

If you want to change the drive types, and the configuration
of the hard disk you are installing does not match one of the
drive types listed in Appendix F, go to step 7.

If you have disconnected the drive or if the drive does not

None Enter.

2-24

Running the

Setup Program

You can enter the drive type in one of two ways:

You can type the drive type number (listed in
Appendix F) and press Enter. The screen displays the
new drive type number and hard disk settings. (You
cannot type 00 or a drive type number that has more
than three digits.)

You can use the cursor keys to move through the drive
type numbers, as follows:

increases the drive type number one
number at a time

decreases the drive type number one
number at a time

PgDn

increases the drive type number in
increments of 10 (for example, from

47 to 57)

PgUp

decreases the drive type number in
increments of 10 (for example, from

to 37)

Home

enters drive type 1 (the first available
drive type)

End

enters drive type 63 (the last available
drive type)

This is a handy way to verify new hard disk settings
before you press Enter because the settings list is
automatically updated as you display each new type
number.

After you enter the appropriate drive type number, press
Enter. The screen displays the new drive type number and
hard disk settings. Go to step 8.

Running the

Setup Program

2-25

7.

If the configuration of the hard disk you are installing does

not match one of the drive types listed in Appendix F,
highlight User defined and press Enter. You see the
following:

The same parameter is highlighted on the submenu above.
Enter the correct number of cylinders (tracks) for the disk
and press

Enter.

The information for Number of cylinders is

automatically updated on the submenu above and you see
the next parameter,

Number of heads. Enter the

correct number of read/write heads for the hard disk and

press

Enter.

2-26

Follow this same procedure for each remaining item in the
settings list (the number of sectors, the precompensation

cylinder, and the landing zone).

If you enter a parameter incorrectly, press or to

highlight the parameter and then enter it again.

The Setup program does not allow you to enter the total
storage capacity; it calculates the storage capacity for you,
based on what you enter for the number of cylinders, heads,

and sectors.

After you type the landing zone number and press Enter,

the cursor block returns to the Drive submenu heading.

Running the Setup Program

8.

If you want to change the hard disk settings for drive 2,
press and return to step 4.

9.

When the hard disk drive settings are correct, press to

move the cursor block into the top submenu. Highlight

* *

** SAVE SETTINGS

hard disk drive configuration. The main Setup menu

appears.

and press Enter to save your

Setting the Diskette Drive Type(s)

Your Equity 386/25

drive. If you removed the installed drive or added a second
diskette drive, you may need to change the diskette drive
settings to match your configuration. If you haven’t made any
changes, you can verify the drive type settings. Follow these
steps:

1. At the main Setup menu, highlight Diskette drive .
The current settings appear:

If the diskette drive types on the screen match your diskette
drive configuration, you can skip the rest of this section.

comes with one factory-installed diskette

Running the Setup Program 2-27

2.

Press Enter. The cursor block moves into the diskette drive
submenu and you see the following:

3.

If you want to change the drive A settings, be sure

Drive A:

is highlighted and press Enter. If you want to

change the drive B settings, highlight Drive B : and
press Enter. The cursor block moves into the submenu.

Use or to highlight the correct type for your diskette

4.

drive and press Enter. The screen displays the new diskette
drive type you selected.

If you want to enter the type for another diskette drive,
return to step 3.

5.

When the diskette drive settings are correct, highlight

* * SAVE SETTINGS * * and press Enter. The cursor

block returns to the main Setup menu and you see the
updated information for drives A and B.

2-28

Running the Setup Program

Reviewing Your Settings

When you finish using the Setup program to define your
computer’s configuration, press to highlight Exit at the
main Setup menu and press Enter. The following Setup
summary appears on the screen:

There are two more Setup summary screens you need to check.
To display the next screen, press PgDn. You see the following:

Running the Setup Program

2-29

If you have never set the real-time clock, the real-time clock
entry at the top of the screen flashes to remind you to set the
time and date.

To view the last Setup summary screen, press PgDn. You see
your hard disk configuration(s):

Check each Setup summary screen to see if all the information

is correct. You can press PgUp to display the previous screen or
PgDn to display the next screen.

If anything is incorrect, be sure Change settings is

highlighted and press Enter. The main Setup menu appears and
you can change the appropriate settings.

2-30

Running the Setup Program

Leaving the Setup Menu

If you want to save the settings you entered, highlight

** EXIT AND SAVE ** and press Enter at a Setup

summary screen. The Setup program stores the new settings and
resets the computer using the new configuration. If you have set
a password, you need to enter it at the key prompt. (See “Using
a Power-on Password” in Chapter 3 for instructions.) The
Operation Menu appears. Press 0 and Enter to exit the
Operation Menu.

If the computer displays an error message while it is starting up,
run the Setup program again and check the setting the error
message indicates. If the computer still displays an error message
after you check your Setup program settings, see Appendix C or
ask your dealer for assistance.

After you save the settings you entered, remove the Reference
diskette from your diskette drive and turn off your system. Then
follow the instructions in your MS-DOS Installation Guide to
install MS-DOS.

Running the Setup Program

2-31

Chapter 3

Using the Equity 386/25

This chapter describes the following procedures for using your
Equity 386/25 computer:

Installing MS-DOS

Using a power-on password

Locking the computer

Selecting the operating speed

Controlling the volume

Using special keys on the keyboard

Stopping a command or program

Resetting the computer

Using the Equity 386/25 as a network server

Using disks and disk drives

Turning off the computer.

Installing MS-DOS

After you connect the components of your system and run
the Setup program, you must install MS-DOS. Follow the
instructions in your MS-DOS Installation Guide.

Using

the Equity 386/25

3-1

The MS-DOS installation process automatically copies the
MS-DOS files onto your hard disk or generates working copies
of the original MS-DOS diskettes. It is best to make another set
of backup copies of your original MS-DOS diskettes. You may
also want to copy the working diskettes MS-DOS generates if
you do not have a hard disk.

In addition, be sure to make a backup copy of your Reference
diskette; MS-DOS does not create one for you. See “Making
Backup Copies” in this chapter and “Backing Up Data” in
Chapter 4 for instructions on how to copy diskettes.

Using a Power-on Password

If you set a power-on password when you ran the Setup
program, you must enter it every time you turn on or reset the
computer. (See “Resetting the Computer” later in this chapter
for instructions on how to reset the computer.) Follow these
steps:

1.

If you do not have a hard disk, insert your Startup diskette
in drive A.

2.

Turn on your system. The screen displays a key prompt:

3.

At the key prompt, enter the power-on password you set
when you ran the Setup program. The key turns when you
type a character. The screen does not display the characters
you type. Then press Enter.

After you type the complete password correctly and press Enter,

a happy face character appears. Then the computer loads

MS-DOS. The screen displays the MS-DOS command prompt or

the MS-DOS Shell Start Programs menu, depending on whether

you installed the Shell program when you installed MS-DOS.

3-2

Using the Equity 386/25

You have three chances to enter the correct password. If you do
not enter the correct password at the first or second key prompt,
another key prompt appears. If you do not enter the correct
password at the third key prompt, the screen displays a 0. The
keyboard locks up and you cannot use the computer. You may
reset the computer and try to enter the correct password again.

Changing a Power-on Password

To change your power-on password, follow these steps:

1.

If you do not have a hard disk, insert your Startup diskette
in drive A.

2.

Turn on or reset the computer. At the key prompt, enter
your current power-on password followed by a forward slash.
After the slash, enter the new password you want to use. For
example, if your current password is 123 and you want to

change it to ABC, type:

123/ABC

Do not use characters requiring the SHIFT key, such as $,
@, or *,

in your new password. The computer does not

recognize the SHIFT key when you use your password to
access the system.

Using the Equity 386/25

3-3

The screen does not display what you type.

3.

Press Enter. A happy face character appears and then the

computer loads MS-DOS.

To access the computer the next time you turn it on or reset it,
you must enter the new power-on password.

Deleting a Power-on Password

To delete your power-on password, follow these steps:

1.

If you do not have a hard disk, insert your Startup diskette
in drive A.

2.

Turn on or reset the computer. At the key prompt, enter
your current power-on password followed by a forward slash.
For example, if your password is 123, type:

123/

3.

Press Enter. A happy face character appears and then
the computer loads MS-DOS.

The next time you turn on or reset the computer, it does not

request a password and loads MS-DOS immediately.

3-4

Using the Equity 386/25

Locking the Computer

The key lock on the front panel of the computer allows you to

lock the cover onto the computer and disable the keyboard and

the RESET button for security. This provides a safeguard
against someone accessing confidential information or altering
your computer’s internal hardware.

For example, you may want to lock the computer while you are
running an application program that features a screen
demonstration that should not be interrupted. When the
computer is locked, it ignores anything typed on the keyboard.

You can lock the computer whether the power is on or off. To
lock it, insert the key with the notch pointing up, as shown in
the following illustration. Then, while pressing the key in
slightly, turn it clockwise to the LOCK position.

To unlock the computer, insert the key with the notch pointing

right and turn the key counterclockwise, to the UNLOCK
position.

Using the Equity 386/25

3-5

You can remove the key in either a locked or unlocked position.

Your Equity 386/25
different locations in case you misplace one.

Be sure the computer is unlocked before you try to use the
keyboard; otherwise it will not respond to anything you enter.

comes with two keys; store them safely in

Selecting the Operating Speed

The Equity 386/25
High speed is either 25 MHz or 24 MHz, depending on the
setting of a jumper inside the computer. (See Appendix A for
more information.) Low speed simulates an 8 MHz operating
speed. On high, the computer can access memory faster than on

low.

You will probably use high speed for almost everything you do.

However, certain application programs have specific timing
requirements for diskette access and can run only at the slower
speed. See the manual for your application program to

determine if this is the case.

can operate at two speeds: high and low.

3-6

Using the Equity 386/25

Use the CPU SPEED switch on the front panel to change the
CPU speed; move it left for low and right for high. When the
computer runs at low speed, the power light is orange; at high
speed, it is green.

Controlling the Volume

Your computer has a speaker which enables it to beep when you
perform certain operations. You can control the speaker’s
loudness with the VOLUME knob on the front panel, shown
below. Turn it to the right to make the sound louder or to the
left to make it quieter.

Using

the Equity 386/25

3-7

Special Keys on the Equity 386/25 Keyboard

Certain keys on your keyboard serve special functions when
your computer is running MS-DOS or application programs.
The following illustration shows the Equity 386/25 keyboard,
and the table that follows describes the special keys.

3-8

Using the

Equity 386/25

Key functions (continued)

The Caps Lock, Num Lock, and Scroll Lock keys work as
toggles; press the key once to turn on a function and again to
turn it off. When the function is enabled, the corresponding

light in the upper right corner of the keyboard is on. When the

function is disabled, the light is off.

Using the Equity 386/25

3-9

Stopping a Command or Program

You may sometimes need to stop a command or program while
it is running. Many application programs provide a command
you can use to cancel or even undo an operation. If you have

entered an MS-DOS command that you want to stop, try one of

the following commands:

Hold down the Ctrl key and press C

Hold down the Ctrl key and press Break.

These methods may also work in your application program. If
you cannot stop a particular operation, however, you may need

to reset the computer, as described in the following section.

Caution
It is best not to turn off
command. If you created new data and you have not yet
stored it, the data will be erased if you turn off the
The computer stores your data in its memory until you save
it; but the memory area is erased each time you turn off or
reset the computer.

the

computer to stop a program or

computer.

Resetting the Computer

Occasionally, you may want to clear the computer’s current
settings or its memory without turning it off. This is called
resetting the computer.

If an error occurs and the computer does not respond to your
keyboard entries, you can reset the computer to reload MS-DOS
and try again. However, resetting erases any data in the
computer’s memory that you have not stored; so reset your
computer only if necessary.

3-10

Using the Equity 386/25

WARNING

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

To reset the computer, MS-DOS must be either on the hard
disk or on a diskette in drive A; so if your computer does not
have a hard disk, insert the Startup diskette in drive A.

There are three ways to reset. Because each is more powerful

than the last, try them in the order listed here:

1.

If you are using MS-DOS, hold down Ctrl and Alt and press
the Del key. The screen goes blank for a moment and then
the computer should reload MS-DOS. If it doesn’t, try the
second method.

2.

Press the RESET button on the front panel. This method
works even when the computer does not respond to your
keyboard entries. If this does not correct the problem, try
the third method.

3.

Remove any diskette(s) from the diskette drive(s). Turn off

the computer and wait five seconds. If your computer does
not have a hard disk, insert the Startup diskette in drive A.
Then turn on the computer.

Using the Equity 386/25

3-11

Using the Equity 386/25 as a Network Server

If you plan to use your Equity 386/25 in a computer network,
you may want to use your computer as the network server. A

network server is the master computer in a network and

provides storage space for the other computers connected to it.

The network server can write files to and read files from the

other computers in the network. The Equity 386/25 is well
equipped to operate as a network server because of its fast
operating speed, storage capacity, and quick access capabilities.

Most networking software assigns certain file access and

programming privileges to the network server that the other

computers in the network do not have. Because of these special
privileges, the Equity 386/25 ff
mode to provide extra password security when your computer is
operating as a network server. You do not have to set a password
or enable network server mode to use your computer as a
network server, but it prevents unauthorized access to your

computer when it is operating in this special situation.

When you enable network server mode, you can boot the
system and allow the other members of the network to access
the system without knowing the password. Your networking
software determines the access privileges given to the network
members. However, you must enter the password to use the
network server itself (by entering commands on the network

server keyboard).

o

ers an optional network server

When you boot the computer from the hard disk in network
server mode, you do not see the key prompt ( ) to tell you
when to enter the password (as you would if network server
mode was turned off). The password prompt is hidden to
prevent unauthorized users from accessing the network server
and using its privileged access capabilities. If someone tries to
access the network server, that person cannot tell that a
password is required.

3-12

Using the Equity 386/25

See “Setting the Power-on Password” in Chapter 2 for

instructions on how to set a power-on password and enable

network server mode.

Using a Password in Network Server Mode

After you enable network server mode and boot the system from
the hard disk, you see the following prompt:

C:\>

You do not see the key prompt ( ) even though the
computer is waiting for you to enter the correct password.

Follow these steps to enter your password:

1.

Type your password and press
anything you type and the prompt does not change.

2.

Press Enter again. You see the C : \ > prompt appear again
beneath the first prompt, as shown below.

C:\>

C:\>

Now, you can access the system.

If the C : \ > prompt does not appear, you entered an
incorrect password. Type the correct password and press

Enter twice to access the system.

Enter. You do

Using the Equity 386/25

not see

3-13

Changing a Password in Network Server Mode

To change the power-on password when you are using network
server mode, follow these steps:

1.

Insert your Reference diskette in drive A.

2.

Turn on or reset the computer. At the key prompt, enter
your current power-on password followed by a forward slash.

After the slash, enter the new password you want to use. For
example, if your current password is 123 and you want to

change it to ABC, type:

123/ABC

Do not use characters requiring the SHIFT key, such as $,

* in your new password. The computer does not

@, or

recognize the SHIFT key when you use your password to
access the system.

The screen does not display what you type.

3-14

Using the Equity 386/25

3.

Press Enter. A happy face character appears and then you

see the Operation Menu.

4.

Select 0 to exit to MS-DOS.

5.

When you see the A> prompt, remove the Reference

diskette and reset your computer.

6.

At the C : \ > prompt, enter your new password.

Using Disks and Disk Drives

The disk drives in your computer allow you to store data on
disk, and then retrieve and use your stored data when you want
to. The Equity 386/25
diskette drive and one hard disk drive. You may install an
additional diskette drive and hard disk drive, up to a maximum
of four drives total (configurable using five half-height mass
storage slots).

This section explains how disks work and tells you how to do

the following:

Use different types of diskettes and diskette drives

Care for your diskettes and diskette drives

Insert and remove diskettes

comes with a single diskette drive or one

Using the Equity 386/25

3-15

Write-protect diskettes

Make backup copies of your diskettes

Use a single diskette drive

Use two diskette drives

Use a hard disk drive.

How Disks Store Data

The diskette you insert in your computer’s diskette drive is made
of flexible plastic coated with magnetic material. It is enclosed
in a square jacket that is either slightly flexible (5 ¼-inch
diskettes), or hard (3 ½-inch diskettes).

Unlike a diskette, a hard disk is rigid and fixed in place. It is
sealed in a protective case to keep it free of dust and dirt. A
hard disk stores data the same way that a diskette does, but it
works much faster and has a much larger storage capacity.

All disks are divided into data storage compartments by sides,

tracks, and sectors. Double-sided diskettes store data on both

sides. On each side, there are concentric rings, called tracks

(or cylinders), on which a disk can store data. Double-density
diskettes have either 40 or 80 tracks on each side, and high-

density diskettes have 80 tracks on each side.

Because a hard disk consists of two or more platters stacked on
top of one another, it has four or more sides with many more
tracks per side than a diskette. (The number of tracks depends
on the capacity of the hard disk. You do not need to know how
many sides and tracks your hard disk has.)

3-16 Using the Equity 386/25

A disk is further divided by sectors. To understand what a sector

is, picture the spokes on a bicycle wheel radiating from the
center of the wheel to the tire. The space between one spoke

and the next is like a sector on a diskette; the lines dividing the

sectors cut across the tracks. (See the figure below.) A diskette
can have 8, 9, 15, or 18 sectors per track. The number of sectors
on a hard disk depends on the type of hard disk.

Your computer uses the read/write heads in a disk drive to store
and retrieve data on a disk. To write to a disk, the computer
spins it in the drive to position the area on the disk where the

data is to be written under the read/write head. A diskette has

an exposed area where the read/write head can access it.

Because data is stored magnetically, you can retrieve it, record
over it, and erase it-just as you play, record, and erase music
on a cassette tape.

Using the Equity 386/25

3-17

Types of Diskette Drives

The Equity 386/25

this drive, use 5 ¼-inch, double-sided, high-density, 96 TPI,

1.2MB diskettes. These diskettes contain 80 tracks per side, 15
sectors per track, and hold up to 1.2MB of information, which is
approximately 500 pages of text. MB stands for megabyte; each
megabyte equals 1,048,576 bytes or 1024KB.

You may also have a second diskette drive, and it may be the
same type or it may be different. The following list describes the
other types of diskette drives you can use in the Equity 386/25

and which diskettes to use with them:

360KB drive-With this drive, use 5 ¼-inch, double-sided,
double-density, 48 TPI (tracks per inch), 360KB diskettes.
(You can also use single-sided, 160KB or 180KB diskettes.)
These diskettes contain 40 tracks per side, 8 or 9 sectors per
track, and hold up to 360KB of information, which is
approximately 150 pages of text. (With 8 sectors per track, a
diskette holds up to 320KB.) KB stands for kilobyte; each
kilobyte equals 1024 bytes. Each byte represents a single
character, such as A, $, or 3.

1.44MB drive-With this drive, use 3 ½-inch, double-sided,
high-density, 135 TPI, 1.44MB diskettes. These diskettes
contain 80 tracks per side, 18 sectors per track, and hold up
to 1.44MB of information, which is approximately 600
pages of text.

comes with one 1.2MB diskette drive. With

3-18

720KB drive-With this drive, use 3 ½-inch, double-sided,
double-density, 135 TPI, 720KB diskettes. These diskettes
contain 80 tracks per side, 9 sectors per track, and hold up
to 720KB of information, which is approximately 300 pages
of text.

Using the Equity 386/25

Drive and diskette incompatibilities

If your computer has more than one type of diskette drive, or if
you use diskettes from other computers with other types of
diskette drives, you need to be aware of certain incompatibilities
between the diskette drives and the diskettes they use.

Because of the size difference, you cannot use 3 ½-inch diskettes
in a 5 ¼-inch drive or vice versa. There are also certain
limitations on using diskettes that are the same size as the drive
but have different capacities. The following tables summarize
the possibilities and limitations.

Using the Equity 386/25

3-19

Because of these incompatibilities, always indicate the diskette

type and density when you label your diskettes. (Usually this
information appears on the manufacturer’s label.)

If you have any combination of the above drives (1.2MB,
360KB, l.44MB, or 720KB), you can copy files from one drive
to another-using the COPY or XCOPY command-as long as
the correct diskette type is in each drive. You can also use these
commands to copy files between a hard disk and any type of
diskette. However, you cannot use the DISKCOPY command to
copy from one diskette drive to another if the two drives are not

the same type. For more information on the MS-DOS COPY,

XCOPY, and DISKCOPY commands, see Chapter 4.

Caring for Diskettes and Diskette Drives

Follow these basic precautions to protect your diskettes and
avoid losing data:

Do not remove a diskette from the diskette drive or turn off
the computer while the drive light is on. This light

indicates that the computer is copying data to or from a

diskette. If you interrupt this process, you can destroy data.

3-20

Remove all diskettes before you turn off the computer.

Keep diskettes away from dust and dirt. Small particles of
dust or dirt can scratch the magnetic surface, destroy data,
and ruin the read/write heads in a diskette drive.

Using the Equity 386/25

Never wipe, brush, or try to clean diskettes in any way.

Keep diskettes in a moderate environment. They work best
at normal room temperature and in normal humidity. Don’t
leave diskettes sitting in the sun, or in extreme cold or heat.

Keep diskettes away from magnetic fields. (Remember that
diskettes store information magnetically.) There are many
magnetic sources in your home or office, such as electrical
appliances, telephones, and loudspeakers.

Do not place diskettes on top of your monitor or near an
external hard disk drive.

The surface of a 5 ¼-inch diskette is exposed by the read/
write slot. Always hold the diskette by its protective jacket
and never touch the magnetic surface. The oils on your
fingertips can damage it.

If you have a 3 ½-inch diskette drive, do not slide the metal
shutter on the diskette; this exposes its magnetic surface.

Do not place anything on top of your diskettes, and be sure
they do not get bent. A diskette does not rotate properly in
the drive if it has been damaged.

Carefully label your diskettes and be sure to indicate the
diskette type and density. Attach labels firmly but gently,

and only along the top of a diskette (next to the
manufacturer’s label). Do not stick several labels on top of
one another; too many labels can make it difficult to insert
and remove the diskette in the drive.

Using the Equity 386/25

3-21

For a 5 ¼-inch diskette, it is best to write on a label before
you attach it to the diskette. If you need to write on a label
that is already on a 5 ¼-inch diskette, use only a soft-tip
pen-not a ballpoint pen or a pencil.

Store diskettes in their protective envelopes and in a proper
location, such as a diskette container. Do not store diskettes
flat or stack them on top of each other.

Inserting and Removing Diskettes

Hold the diskette with the label facing up and the read/write
slot leading into the drive, as shown below.

Slide the diskette into the slot until it is in all the way. Then
turn the latch down to lock it in a vertical position. This keeps
the diskette in place and enables the read/write heads in the
diskette drive to access the diskette.

3-22

Using the Equity 386/25

To remove the diskette, turn the latch up until it is horizontal
and the edge of the diskette pops out. Carefully pull out the
diskette, place it in its protective envelope, and store it in a
proper location, such as a diskette container.

If you have a 3 ½-inch diskette drive, insert the diskette with
the label facing up and the metal shutter leading into the drive,

as shown below. Slide the diskette into the drive until it clicks

into place.

To remove the diskette, press the release button. The diskette
pops out of the drive. Pull out the diskette and store it properly.

Using the Equity 386/25

3-23

Write-protecting Diskettes

You can write-protect a diskette to prevent its data from being
altered. When a diskette is write-protected, you can read it and
copy data from it, but you cannot store new data on the diskette
or delete any files it contains. If you try to change data stored on
a write-protected diskette, MS-DOS displays an error message.

To write-protect a 5 ¼-inch diskette, cover the small,
rectangular notch (shown below) with an adhesive write­protect tab. Write-protect tabs usually come with new 5 ¼-inch
diskettes when you buy them.

To remove the write protection, peel off the write-protect tab.

3-24

Using the Equity 386-25

On a 3 ½-inch diskette, the write-protect device is a small
switch on the back of the diskette in the lower right corner,
shown below. To write-protect a 3 ½-inch diskette, slide the
switch toward the edge of the diskette until it clicks into
position, exposing a hole in the corner.

To remove the write protection, slide the switch toward the
center of the diskette until it clicks into position and the hole is
covered.

Making Backup Copies

It is important to make copies of all your data and system
diskettes. Make
contain programs, such as the original MS-DOS and Reference
diskettes that come with the Equity 386/25, and use only the
copies. Store the original diskettes in a safe place away from
your working diskettes.

Copy your data diskettes regularly, whenever you revise them,
to keep them up-to-date, and store them away from your
originals.

backup or working) copies of all diskettes that

Using

the Equity 386/25 3-25

To make backup copies of your diskettes, use the DISKCOPY
command, the MS-DOS Shell, or the MENU program. See
Chapter 4, your Shell User’s Guide, or your MS-DOS Reference
Manual for instructions.

It is best to store the programs and data files you use regularly
on the hard disk. Keep backup copies of all your program files
on diskettes, and regularly copy important data files to diskettes
as well. See “Backing up the hard disk” in this chapter for more

information.

Using a Single Diskette Drive

MS-DOS expects the computer to have at least two diskette
drives, and it displays prompts and messages accordingly. If your

system has a single diskette drive, MS-DOS treats your one

drive like two logical drives. This helps you perform operations
that normally require two diskette drives.

Usually, MS-DOS recognizes the first diskette drive (the top

drive on your computer) as drive A and a second diskette drive

as B. If you have only one diskette drive, MS-DOS can treat it
as both A and B.

3-26

Using the Equity 386/25

For example, if you enter a command to copy from A to B,

MS-DOS copies from the first diskette you place in the drive
(A) to the computer’s memory. Then MS-DOS prompts you to
insert another diskette (for drive B) and copies from memory to
the new diskette. When copying is complete, you see a prompt
to insert the original diskette (for drive A).

Because you may often swap diskettes this way, it is important
to remember which diskette is which. It is also a good idea to

write-protect your original diskette.

If you have a hard disk and one diskette drive, you can load the

operating system and application programs from the hard disk,
create and store your data there, and use the diskette drive just
for copying data to or from diskettes.

If you have only one diskette drive and no hard disk, you need

to use that drive to load the operating system as well as the

application programs you are using. First load the operating
system; this copies it to the computer’s memory (RAM) so you
do not need to leave the system diskette in the drive. Then you

can remove that diskette and insert the program diskette you

want to use, and load that into memory too. See your

application program manual for detailed instructions.

Using Two Diskette Drives

If you have two diskette drives, you can use the top drive (A)
for loading the operating system and application programs and

the second drive (B) for creating data. If you have a hard disk,

you will probably need the diskette drives just to copy files to

and from the hard disk and to copy diskettes.

Using the Equity 386/25

3-27

Using a Hard Disk Drive

Working with a hard disk is similar to working with a diskette.

However, the hard disk provides several advantages:

A 40MB hard disk can store as much data as approximately

331.2MB diskettes, and a 100MB hard disk can store as
much data as approximately 82 1.2MB diskettes.

Your computer can perform all disk-related operations
faster.

You can store frequently used programs and data files on the

hard disk, eliminating the inconvenience of swapping

diskettes to access different files.

The added storage capacity makes it easy to move back and
forth between different programs and data files. However,

because it is so easy to add programs and files to your hard disk,
you may find yourself trying to organize hundreds of files.

MS-DOS lets you keep related files together in directories and
subdirectories so they are easy to find and use. See Chapter 4 for
instructions on how to use directories.

If your Equity 386/25has

a hard disk drive, follow these

precautions to protect it from damage and to avoid losing data:

Never turn off the computer when the hard disk drive light
is on. This light indicates that the computer is copying data
to or from the hard disk. If you interrupt this process, you
can lose data.

3-28 Using

the

Equity 386/25

Never attempt to open the hard disk drive. The disk itself is
enclosed in a sealed container to protect it from dust.

Before you move your computer (even to another part of
the room), you need to prepare the hard disk for moving.
See “Preparing the hard disk for moving,” below, for
instructions.

A hard disk must be partitioned and formatted before you can
use it. Be sure you have performed the procedures in your
MS-DOS Installation Guide to prepare your hard disk for use.

You can enhance the performance of your hard disk by using
the SMARTDRV.SYS device driver and the FASTOPEN
command. See your MS-DOS Reference Manual for
instructions.

Backing up the hard disk

While the hard disk is very reliable, it is essential to back up
your hard disk files to diskettes in case you lose some data
accidentally. Make copies of all your system and application
diskettes before copying the programs to the hard disk. After
you create data files on the hard disk, be sure to copy them to
diskettes whenever you revise them to keep your backup
diskettes up-to-date.

To make copies of your program diskettes before copying them

to the hard disk, use the DISKCOPY command, the MS-DOS
Shell, or the MENU program. To copy your hard disk files onto
diskettes, use the BACKUP, COPY, or XCOPY command; the

MS-DOS Shell; or the MENU program. See Chapter 4, your
Shell User’s Guide, or your MS-DOS Reference Manual for

instructions.

Using the Equity 386/25

3-29

Preparing the hard disk for moving

If you need to move your computer to a new location-whether
it is across the country or just across the room-you should run
the HDSIT program to protect the hard disk during the move.

The HDSIT program moves the disk drive’s read/write heads to

a region on the disk surface that does not contain data, and
locks them securely in position. This protects the hard disk from
being damaged if the computer is bumped accidentally.

Follow these steps to run HDSIT:

1.

Exit any program you are using and display the MS-DOS
command prompt on the screen.

2.

Insert the Reference diskette in drive A.

3.

Type the following and press Enter:

A:HDSIT

You see a message on the screen that tells you the disk drive’s
read/write heads will remain locked until you reset the
computer or turn the power off and on again. The computer

locks the heads and disables the keyboard. You can now turn off
the computer and prepare to move it to the new location.

Turning Off the Computer

Before you turn off your computer, save your data, exit the

program you are using, and remove any diskettes from the

diskette drives. Turn off the computer first, then turn off the
monitor and any peripherals.

3-30 Using the Equity 386/25

Chapter 4

Using MS-DOS With Your Equity 386/25

Your Equity 386/25
operating system manages your computer by organizing the
computer’s memory, controlling the monitor display, receiving
keyboard input, and accessing data.

How much you need to know about MS-DOS depends on how
you will be using your computer. If you plan to use it just to run

application programs, the few MS-DOS commands you’ll need

are introduced in this chapter. If you plan to use advanced
features, refer to your MS-DOS Reference Manual for complete
descriptions of MS-DOS commands and features.

This chapter covers the following topics:

Entering MS-DOS commands

Managing files and directories

Formatting diskettes

Backing up data

Using the MS-DOS Shell program

comes with version 4.01 of MS-DOS. This

Using the Epson HELP and MENU programs

Using an AUTOEXEC.BAT file

Using the video shadow RAM function

Using memory beyond 640KB.

Using

MS-DOS with Your Equity 386/25

4-1

Starting MS-DOS

Before you can run an MS-DOS application program, MS-DOS
must be loaded in the computer’s memory. If you have a hard
disk and you installed MS-DOS
your MS-DOS Installation Guide, the computer loads MS-DOS
automatically after you turn on the power (provided no diskette

is in the diskette drive).

If you do not have a hard disk, you need to load MS-DOS when
you turn on the computer. To do this, insert the MS-DOS
Startup diskette in drive A and then turn on the computer.

(The Startup diskette is one of the working diskettes MS-DOS
generates during the installation process. See your MS-DOS
Installation Guide for instructions on how to install the
operating system.)

If you set a power-on password when you ran the Setup
program, the computer displays the key prompt ( ) before
loading MS-DOS. At the k
password and press Enter. (See “Using a Power-on Password” in
Chapter 3 for more information.) After you enter your
password, the computer loads MS-DOS.

according to the instructions in

ey prompt, type your power-on

When MS-DOS is loaded, the screen displays the Shell Start
Programs Menu if you installed the Shell program when you
installed MS-DOS. If you did not install the Shell program, the
screen displays the MS-DOS command prompt, usually C> or
A>. The MS-DOS command prompt identifies the current
drive.

4-2

Using MS-DOS with Your Equity 386/25

Using Drive Designators

MS-DOS uses letters known as drive designators to identify the
disk drives in your computer. If you have one diskette drive, it is
known as drive A. If you have two diskette drives, the top drive
is A and the bottom drive is B.

If you have one hard disk drive, MS-DOS identifies its primary
partition as drive C (even if you have only one diskette drive).
If you have a second hard disk drive, MS-DOS identifies its
primary partition as drive D.

If you created one or more extended partitions on your hard

disk when you installed MS-DOS, the logical drives that make

up the extended partition(s) are identified by drive letters. For
example, if you have one hard disk (one physical drive)

partitioned into three logical drives, the logical drives are C, D,

and E. If you have two hard disk drives partitioned into a total
of five logical drives (three on the first physical drive and two
on the second), the first physical drive is divided into logical
drives C, E, and F, and the second physical drive is divided into

logical drives D and G, as shown here:

drive 1

C: (primary)
E:
F:

drive 2

D: (primary)
G:

Using MS--DOS

with

Your Equity 386/25

4-3