Epson EQUITY II+ User Manual

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EQUITY™II+

User's Guide

EPSON

Page 2

EPSON

Equity™ II+

User’s Guide

Y16299110300

Page 3

IMPORTANT NOTICE

DISCLAIMER OF WARRANTY

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

All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system, or transmitted, in any form or by any means, electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording, or otherwise, without the prior written permission of Seiko Epson Corporation. 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, Seiko Epson Corporation 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 Computer Corp. Hercules graphic card is a trademark of Hercules Computer Technology. IBM is a registered trademark and AT and XT are trademarks of International Business Machines Corp. Microsoft, MS-DOS, and GW-BASIC are registered trademarks of Microsoft Corp.

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FCC COMPLIANCE STATEMENT

FOR AMERICAN USERS

This equipment generates and uses radio frequency energy and if not installed and used properly, that is, in strict accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions, may cause interference to radio and television reception. It has been type tested and found

to comply with the limits for a Class B computing device in accordance with the specifications in Subpart J of Part 15 of FCC reasonable protection against such interference in a residential installation. However, there is no guarantee that interference will not occur in a particular installation. If this equipment does cause 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 the receiving antenna l Relocate the computer with respect to the receiver l Move the computer away from the receiver l Plug the computer into a different outlet so that the computer and receiver are on

different branch circuits.

If necessary, the user should consult the dealer or an experienced radio/television technician for additional suggestions. The user 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

ru es,lwhich are designed to provide

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

Note: If the interference stops, it was probably caused by the computer or its periph-

eral 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 nonEpson 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 J 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 non-certified peripherals is likely to result in interference to radio and TV reception.

The connection of a non-shielded equipment interface cable to this equipment will invalidate the FCC Certification of this device and may cause interference levels which exceed the limits established by the FCC for this equipment.

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User’s Guide

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Introduction

How to Use this Manual

Setting Up Your System

Unpacking .....................................

Removing the disk drive protector sheet Choosing a Location Arranging the Components

The front panel

The back panel Connecting the Power Cord Connecting a Video Monitor Connecting the Keyboard Connecting a Printer

Parallel interface Serial interface The Equity II+ character set

Turning On the Computer

Safety rules Turning on the power switch Initial setup procedure Initial screen display

Using the Equity II+

Inserting and Removing Diskettes Special Keys on the Equity II+ Keyboard Selecting Execution Speed Resetting the Computer Turning Off the Computer

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Intro-1 Intro-2

1-1 1-1 1-2 1-2

1-3 1-4 1-5 1-6 1-7

1-9 1-11 1-11 1-12

1-13 1-13 1-13 1-14 1-14 1-15

2-1 2-1 2-2 2-3 2-4 2-5

3 Using Disks and Disk Drives

How Disks Work

Choosing Diskette Drives for the Equity II+

Drive and diskette incompatibilities Caring for your Disks and Disk Drives Protecting your Data

Making backup copies

Write-protecting diskettes Using Two Diskette Drives Using a Single Diskette Drive Using a Hard Disk Drive

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3-1 3-1

3-2 3-2 3-3 3-5 3-5 3-5 3-7

3-7 3-7

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Installing Option Cards

Removing the Cover

Installing an Option Card Removing an Option Card Replacing the Cover Post-installation Setup

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4-1 4-1 4-3 4-7 4-7 4-8

Troubleshooting

The Computer Fails to Start Up The Video Display Does Not Appear The Computer Does Not Respond Floppy Disk Problems Hard Disk Problems

Software Problems Printer Problems Option Card Problems

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Appendixes

Jumper Settings

Changing a Jumper Setting Memory Card Jumpers Main Circuit Board Jumpers Multi-function Card Jumpers

Equity II+ Specifications

CPU and Memory Controllers Interfaces Power Supply Mass Storage Keyboard Environmental Requirements Physical Characteristics (CPU Only) Power Requirements Options

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5-1 5-1 5-1 5-2 5-2 5-3 5-3 5-4 5-4

A-1 A-2 A-2 A-4

A-6

B-1 B-1 B-1 B-1

B-2 B-2 B-3 B-3 B-3 B-3

B-4

C Glossary..

Index

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C-1

Index-1

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Figures

System arrangement

1-1

Front panel

1-2

Backpanel

1-3

Connecting the power cord

1-4

Connecting the monitor

1-5

Plugging the keyboard cable into the main unit

1-6

Adjusting the keyboard legs

1-7

Connecting the printer cable to the parallel port

1-8

Connecting the printer

1-9

Turning on the power

1-10

Inserting a diskette

2-1

Standard keyboard

2-2

CPU speed switch

2-3

Write-protect notch

3-1

Write-protect switch

3-2

Back and side panel screws

4-1

Sliding back the cover

4-2

Removing the cover

4-3

Optionslots

4-4

16-bit and &bit option cards

4-5

Removing an option slot cover

4-6

Inserting an option card

4-7

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1-3 1-4 1-5 1-7

1-8

1-9 1-10 1-11 1-12

1-14

2-1

2-2 2-4

3-6 3-6

4-2

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

4-5 4-4

Location of cards

A-1 A-2 Jumper positions

A-3 Removing memory card retaining screw A-4 Memory card jumpers

A-5 Main circuit board jumpers

A-6

Disconnecting drive drive cable from multi-function card . A-7 Removing multi-function card retaining screw A-8 Multi-function card jumpers

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A-1 A-2

A-3 A-4 A-6 A-7 A-8

A-8

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Tables

1-1

Monitor/video card compatibility . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

2-1

Specialkeys . . . . . .

3-1

S%inch

3-2

3%inch

A-1 Memory card jumper settings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . A-3

A-2 Main circuit board jumper settings A-3 Multi-function card jumper settings for parallel port . . . A-6

A-4 Multi-function card jumper settings for serial port . . . . . A-7

drive/diskette compatibility . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

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1-8 2-3 3-2

3-3

A-5

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Introduction

Your Epson® Equity™ II+ personal computer is a versatile, highperformance system that offers you a wide variety of choices. First you choose between two models of the Equity II+ main unit, then select the monitor and peripherals you want to use with it to assemble the configuration that does the most for you.

The Equity II+ main unit is available in these models:

One 1.2MB (megabyte) high-density floppy disk drive

l One 1.2MB floppy disk drive and one 40MB internal hard disk drive.

Both

models include 640KB (kilobytes of memory. You can install additional )

drives in your Equity II+ to increase its storage capacity: another floppy disk

drive (360KB, 720KB, 1.2MB, or 1.44MB) or one hard disk.

The Equity II+ comes with both a serial interface and a parallel inter-

face. These interfaces let you connect an Epson printer or plotter, or almost

any peripheral device you choose.

You can further expand the capabilities of your Equity II+ by adding optional cards to which you connect external devices. The Equity II+ has six option slots in which you can install option cards. (One slot holds the parallel and serial interfaces.)

You

choose

A monitor requires a video card. Here are some monitors and video cards you can use with the Equity II+:

Monochrome monitor (green or amber) and monochrome video card RGB (red, green, blue) color monitor and either a CGA (color graphics

adapter) card or an EGA (enhanced graphics adapter) card RGB enhanced color monitor and a CGA or EGA card Composite monitor, either color or monochrome, and a CGA card Monochrome monitor and an EGA card EGA monitor and an EGA card.

User’s Guide

the type of monitor you want to use with your Equity II+.

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You can add memory expansion option cards to increase the amount of internal memory in your Equity II+, and you can add an 80287 math coprocessor (which is not an option card but installs on the main circuit board).

You can also use most cards for the IBM® Personal Computer, PC XT™, from time to time to find out which peripherals and. option cards are available.

GW-BASIC® progr another computer, you will find that it works the same on the Equity II+. Be sure to refer to your Equity MS-DOS manual, however, for descriptions of the special utility programs added by Epson.

products designed for the IBM PC, PC XT, and PC AT on your Equity II+. Refer to your software program documentation for information on using the

software.

ing with the appropriate operating system. Consult your Epson dealer for more information.

and PC AT™ on the Equity II+. Check with your Epson dealer

The Equity II+ comes with the MS-DOS@ operating system and the

amming language. If you have used MS-DOS before on

You may have purchased other software; you can use most software

Additionally, the Equity II+ supports multiple users and multiple task-

How to Use this Manual

This user’s guide explains how to set up and care for your Equity II+. It also describes how to start using your system and install optional devices. You may not need to read everything in this book; some sections may describe a particular option or accessory you do not have.

Follow the instructions in Chapter 1 to set up and turn on your system. Chapter 2 describes some general operational procedures. Chapter 3 explains how disks and disk drives work and shows how to use them. Chapter 4 describes how to install and remove option cards. If you encounter a problem, refer to Chapter 5 for troubleshooting guidelines.

Appendix A describes how to change jumper settings inside the main unit when you install certain optional devices, Appendix B presents the Equity II+ hardware specifications, and Appendix C is a glossary of computer terms used in this manual. Refer to the glossary whenever you come across an unfamiliar word.

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The last section of this manual describes the diagnostics programs for your Equity II+. You run these diagnostics programs the first time you set up your system and any time you change the configuration of your Equity II+.

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Chapter 1

Setting Up Your System

Setting up your Epson Equity II+ personal computer is easy. Just follow the steps in this chapter- You’ll find a quick guide to these steps on the inside back cover.

Unpacking

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

Once you have unpacked your Equity II+ computer components and

documentation, you should have this manual and the following items:

l The main unit and power cord. l The keyboard with detachable cable.

A startup diskette that contains the MS-DOS operating system (version

3.3) and the commands used to identify your basic system configuration.

Two operating diskettes both of which provide the MS-DOS commands used for daily operation. Operating diskette 1 contains the individual commands; Operating diskette 2 contains menus you can use to access many of the same commands. This diskette also provides the MS-DOS Help utility and the GW-BASIC programming language.

l A reference diskette that contains a special group of programs called

diagnostics. You use these programs the first time you set up your system and any time you make changes to it. This diskette also contains several MS-DOS commands to provide system information or perform advanced MS-DOS operations.

l An MS-DOS manual and a GW-BASIC manual.

In addition to these items, you probably bought a compatible video

monitor and video card.

You’ll also find a registration card with the main unit. Fill this card out now and mail it to Epson. With your registration card on file, Epson can send you update information.

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

possible for your computer if you need to move or ship it later.

Removing the disk drive protector sheet

A cardboard sheet occupies the diskette slot in the floppy disk drive. This sheet is inserted at the factory to protect the read/write heads. Be sure to remove it before you connect any cables. Turn up the latch that covers the disk slot until it is horizontal. Carefully pull out the sheet. (If you have an optional drive with a push button, press the disk drive button to release the protector sheet.)

Save the protector sheet and reinsert it whenever you move the computer, even if you just move it to another part of the room. If you don’t plan to use your computer for a week or more, such as when you go on vacation, reinsert the protector sheet to help prevent dust from entering the disk drive.

Choosing a Location

Whether you use your computer at home or in the office, you need to find a comfortable, convenient location where it can run properly.

before you set up your new system, choose an appropriate place.

Choose a location that provides the following:

A large, sturdy desk or table. Make sure it 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 erases data on your disks and can 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. You need to 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. because you can’t risk losing data

stored on disk, do not expose your computer to dust and smoke, which can damage disks and disk drives.

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Appropriate power sources. To prevent static charges, connect all your equipment to 3-prong, 120-volt grounded outlets. You need one outlet for the main unit, one for the monitor, and additional outlets for a printer and any other peripherals. The auxiliary power outlet on the rear panel of the Equity II+ reduces the number of wall outlets you need.

l No electromagnetic interference. Locate your system away from any

electrical device that generates an electromagnetic field. Even a telephone can cause trouble, especially if you keep diskettes right next to it.

Arranging the Components

system. Figure 1-1 shows a typical setup.

First decide how you want to arrange the different parts of your

User’s Guide

Figure 1-1. System

arrangement

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If you have special computer furniture or want to customize your setup,

you can arrange your system components to suit your own needs.

Before you connect the cables, take a look at the front and back panels

of the main unit.

The front panel

Figure 1-2 identifies the various components on the front panel. To view the keyboard socket and control switches, gently press in each cover on the lower left side of the front panel. This releases the cover and you can gently pull it down to view the switches.

Floppy disk drive Disk lock/

Floppy disk

drive slots

Figure 1-2. Front panel

POWER switch. Use this switch to turn the Equity II+ on or off.

l Floppy disk drive. The top drive is a floppy disk drive that uses high-

density (1.2MB) diskettes.

Disk lock/release latch. To lock a diskette in place, turn this latch down until it is vertical. To release a diskette, turn it up until it is horizontal.

l Floppy disk drive light. A red light indicates that the drive is being

accessed. To avoid losing data, never remove a diskette or turn off the

computer’s power when this light is on.

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Slots for optional disk drives. You can add another floppy disk drive (1.44MB, 1.2MB, 720KB, slots. All Equity II+ units come with at least one 1.2MB floppy disk drive.

Hard disk drive light. A green light indicates that the drive is being

accessed. To avoid losing data, do not turn off the computer’s power

when this light is on. Power light. When the light is on, the power is on. The light is orange if

the CPU (central processing unit) speed is 8 MHz and green for 12 MHz.

or 360KB) and/or hard disk drive in these

RESET

ing system is running and the computer is unlocked, you can press the

RESET CPU SPEED

slide it to the left to run at 8 MHz and slide it to the right to run at 12 MHz.

MONITOR SELECT

monochrome monitor or to the right if you are using a color monitor.

Keyboard cable socket. Plug in the keyboard cable here.

button. Press this button to reset the computer. When an operat-

button to reboot the system.

switch. Use this switch to select the CPU’s execution speed:

switch. Slide this switch to the left if you are using a

The back panel

Now look at the back panel to identify the input/output ports. Figure

1-3 shows where you connect your peripherals.

Voltage switch

6 5'

User’s Guide

Parallel

port

Figure 1-3. Back panel

Serial

port

Option card

access

slots

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WARNING: Connect all your peripherals before you plug in the

power cable. After you plug in the power cable, always turn off the power switch before you connect or disconnect any peripheral.

Voltage switch. Leave this switch at 115V for USA and Canadian use. Slide the switch to the right to select 230V for use in other countries (as necessary).

AC OUTLET Auxiliary power outlet. You can plug some monitors (and other types of peripherals) into the main unit here, instead of a wall outlet. The main unit’s power switch controls the monitor or peripheral connected to this outlet.

AC INLET Plug the power cord into the main unit here. Be sure the power switch is off when you plug the power cord into an outlet.

Parallel port. Lets you connect a peripheral with a parallel interface, such as

a printer or a plotter. Serial port. Allows you to connect a peripheral with a serial interface, such

as a modem, another computer, or a printer.

Option card access slots. The Equity II+ has six slots to hold up to six option cards. Option cards allow your computer to control your peripherals or enhance your computer’s performance. One option card slot holds the parallel and serial interfaces as well as the floppy disk controller. If your Equity II+ has a hard disk, a hard disk controller card occupies another option slot. You also need to use one or more slots for the video card(s) you purchased for your monitor. You can use the other slots to install additional options, such as a memory expansion card.

Connecting the Power Cord

back panel, as shown in Figure 1-4. To avoid an electric shock, be sure to plug this end into the main unit before plugging the other end into the wall socket.

For now, do not plug the power cord into an electrical outlet.

1-6

Insert the power cord into the AC power inlet on the left side of the

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Figure 1-4. Connecting the power cord

Connecting a Video Monitor

depends on the type of monitor you have. Refer to your monitor manual for

detailed instructions or follow the general guidelines below.

Note:

The procedure you use to connect your monitor to the main unit

Your dealer may have installed a video card in your main unit to control

your monitor. If not, you need to install it before you can connect your monitor. See Chapter 4 for instructions on how to remove the main unit’s cover and install an option card.

Place your monitor on top of or near the Equity II+ main unit. It is easiest to connect the monitor cable if the backs of the monitor and

main unit face 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 your monochrome or color/graphics card connector at the back of the main unit, as shown in Figure 1-5. If the plug has retaining screws, tighten them with a screwdriver.

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Figure 1-5. Connecting the

The monitor type must match the video card in the main unit. If you have a color card, you can use one of two connectors: a nine-pin, female

D-connector for RGB monitors or an RCA connector for composite

video monitors. Consult Table l-l to make sure your card and monitor match.

monitor

Table 1-1. Monitor/video

Monitor

Monochrome

Color or enhanced color

Composite-color or monochrome

Note: Be sure to set the switches on the video card to match your monitor.

Video

card

Monochrome or

enhanced graphics Color graphics or

enhanced graphics Color graphics

1-8

card compatibility

output type

9-pin output

(TTL compatible)

9-pin RGB output RCA-type jack

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Plug the monitor’s power cable first into the power inlet on the monitor

and then into an electrical outlet. Note: If a monochrome monitor has the proper type of plug, you can

plug it into the auxiliary outlet on the back of the Equity II+ main unit.

Set the monitor switch on the front panel of the main unit for the type of monitor you are using. (See Figure 1-2.) Slide the switch to the left for a monochrome monitor or to the right for a color monitor.

Connecting the Keyboard

2. Plug the other end of the cable into the keyboard socket, as shown in Figure

Follow these steps to connect the keyboard:

Open the cover on the lower left corner on the front panel of the main unit. Press in to release the cover; then gently pull down the cover.

1-6. Do not force the connector, but be sure to insert it all the way

Figure 1-6. Plugging the keyboard cable into the

main

unit

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You can tilt the angle of the keyboard by adjusting the legs on the bottom. To adjust the legs, turn the keyboard over and lift each leg upward until it locks into place, as shown in Figure 1-7. You can adjust the legs to two

different positions, or leave them flat.

1-10

Figure 1-7. Adjusting the keyboard legs

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Connecting a Printer

connect a printer or plotter that has either type of interface-just follow the instructions below. Epson offers a full range of printer products. Consult your dealer for more information.

The Equity II+ has both parallel and serial interfaces. You can easily

Parallel interface

The Equity II+ parallel interface is Centronics®-compatible and uses a

DB-25S connector. Most Epson printers have parallel interfaces.

To connect a printer to the main unit, you need an IBM-compatible

printer cable. If you are not sure which one you need, consult your Epson

dealer. Once you have a printer cable, follow these steps to connect your printer to the parallel interface on the main unit:

Place the printer next to your system.

Before you connect the printer, be sure the power switches on both the main unit and the monitor are off.

Connect the appropriate end of the printer cable to the parallel port on the back panel of the main unit, as shown in Figure 1-8. If the plug has retaining screws, tighten them with a small screwdriver.

Figure 1-8. Connecting the printer cable to the

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parallel port

Page 24

.4.

Connect the other end of the cable to the printer as shown in Figure 1-9. To secure the cable, tighten the squeeze locks at each side of the printer port and push them into the connectors on each side of the cable.

Figure 1-9.

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

Connecting the

printer

Serial interface

If you have a printer (or another peripheral such as a modem) with a serial interface, connect it to the serial (RS-232C) port at the back of the main unit. The Equity II-+ uses a DB-9P connector, so be sure you have an AT-compatible cable (or an adapting cable that converts the 9-pin output to the standard 25-pin output). To connect a serial device, follow the same steps above for connecting a parallel device.

You need to ensure the serial port is set up so it functions properly. If you are using the port for a serial printer, you must also redirect printer output to the serial instead of the parallel port. Use the MS-DOS SETMODE program (or the MODE command) to make these changes. See your MS-DOS man-

ual for instructions,

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The Equity II+ character set

The Equity II+ uses a special character set that assigns graphics and international characters to some of the ASCII codes. In most cases, if you try to print these characters on a standard printer, you get italic characters instead. Some Epson printers support the IBM character set (the character set the Equity II+ uses) as a standard feature, and others can be adapted. In

addition, some application programs can print the special graphic characters on a standard printer when you use a special printer driver program. Ask

your Epson dealer for more information.

Turning On the Computer

start using your Equity II+ computer. But before you turn it on, read the following safety rules.

After you set up your system, you’re ready to turn on the power and

Safety rules

Follow these rules to avoid accidentally damaging your computer or

injuring yourself:

Never turn the computer on or off with a protector sheet in the disk drive.

Do not attempt to dismantle any part of the computer. Only remove the top cover to install and remove option cards. If there is a hardware

problem you cannot solve after reading Chapter 5 on troubleshooting,

or if you want to install an optional 80287 math coprocessor, consult your Epson dealer.

Always turn off the power, disconnect the computer’s power cord, and wait a few minutes before you remove the computer’s cover.

Do not unplug cables from the computer when the power switch is on. Never turn off or reset your computer while a disk drive light is on. This

can destroy data stored on disk or make a whole disk unusable. Always wait at least five seconds after you switch the power off before

you switch 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.

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Turning on the power switch

Now you are ready to turn on your system. It is a good idea to turn on

the monitor and any peripheral devices before you turn on the main unit.

First, make sure the power cord is plugged into the power inlet on the

back panel of the main unit. Then plug the power cable into a 3-prong,

120-volt, grounded electrical outlet. Turn on the monitor so you can see the messages that appear as your computer starts up. If you have a printer or other peripheral device, turn it on next.

You can turn on your computer with or without a system diskette in the top disk drive. For now, leave the drive empty. To turn on the computer, press in the power switch on the front panel of the main unit, as shown in Figure 1-10. The power indicator on the front panel lights up and the cooling fan inside the main unit starts. After a few seconds, the computer begins to perform an internal self test.

Figure 1-10. Turning on the power

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.

Initial setup procedure

If this is the first time your Equity II+ has been used, you need to use the diagnostics programs on the reference diskette to perform an initial setup. This is a simple procedure that you must do at least once. You may need to

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do it again if you change your system configuration-by adding a disk drive, for example-or to change the system date or time. See the Diagnostics sec-

tion at the back of this manual for instructions.

Initial screen display

After the computer completes its self test, a message tells you how much

RAM (random access memory) is available, for example:

640

KB 0K

Then the following message displays:

Non-System disk or diskerror Replace and strike any key when ready

This tells you the computer can now load an operating system from a diskette in the top drive. The Equity II+ needs a disk operating system (DOS) to function. It comes with MS-DOS version 3.3. If you want to use another

operating system, consult your dealer.

To load an operating system, insert the system diskette you want to use (see “Inserting and Removing Diskettes” in Chapter 2). Refer to your MS-DOS (or other operating system) manual for details on how to use the system.

Note: Use only a backup copy of the system diskette for daily use and keep

the original in a safe place. See your MS-DOS manual to find out how to make a backup copy.

If your system has a hard disk, you need to prepare it before you can run an operating system on it. Refer to “Using a Hard Disk Drive” in Chapter 3 and to your MS-DOS(or other operating system) manual for instructions on how to prepare a hard disk for use.

If your hard disk has been properly prepared and set up to automatically boot MS-DOS, the message above does not appear. Instead, the operating system loads when you turn on the computer. The date and time prompts display and then the system prompt:

This indicates the hard disk has been assigned as drive C.

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Chapter 2

Using the Equity II+

This chapter covers some basic procedures for using your Equity II+

computer and keyboard.

Inserting and Removing Diskettes

To insert a diskette into the 1.2MB floppy disk drive, hold it with the label face up and the write-protect notch to the left (so that the read/write slot is away from you). Then slide it into the disk drive as shown in Figure 2-1. When the diskette is all the way in, turn the latch down until it locks into the vertical position. This keeps the diskette in place and enables the

read/write heads in the disk drive to access the diskette.

User’s Guide

Figure 2-1. Inserting a diskette

2-1

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

If you have an optional floppy disk drive with a disk drive button, insert the diskette the same way as for a 1.2MB drive (with the label facing up). ‘When it is all the way in, press the disk drive button to lock it in place. To remove the diskette, press the button to release it and pull it out of the drive.

WARNING: Never remove a diskette or turn off the computer

while the drive indicator light is on. You could lose data. Also, be sure to remove all diskettes before you turn off the computer.

Special Keys on the Equity II+ Keyboard

Certain keys on your keyboard serve special functions when your computer is running application programs. Figure 2-2 shows the standard

Equity II+ keyboard, and Table 2-1 describes the special keys.

2-2

Figure 2-2.

Standard keyboard

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Table 2-1.

Special keys

Esc

- F12

F1 Print Screen

Sys Rq Scroll Lock

Pause Break

The

Num Lock, Caps Lock,

when you press them. When the function is enabled, the corresponding light

on the upper-right corner of the keyboard is on; when the function is dis-

abled, the light is off.

Cancels the current command line or operation.

Perform special functions within application programs. Prints the screen display on a line printer.

Generates the System Request function.

In some applications, controls scrolling. Suspends current operation. Terminates current operation.

and

Scroll Lock

keys work as toggles

Selecting Execution Speed

The Equity II+ can operate at two different execution speeds: 8 MHz or

12 MHz. At the faster speed, the computer performs all tasks more rapidly. You can select the slower speed to run application programs that have specific timing requirements.

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To change the speed, move the

See Figure 2-3.

Figure 2-3. CPU speed switch

When the computer is running at 8 MHz, the power light is orange, and

at 12 MHz, the light is green.

CPU SPEED

switch on the front panel.

Resetting the Computer

You can reset the computer to load a different operating system or to

reload the current operating system. For example, if an error occurs and the

computer does not respond to your keyboard commands, you can reset the computer and try the same operation again. However, resetting erases all data in the computer’s temporary memory (RAM), so reset your computer only as a last resort.

In MS-DOS, operation and return to the MS-DOS command prompt. If an error occurs, try this method before you reset the computer.

you can hold down

Ctrl

and press C to stop a program’s

WARNING: Do not reset the computer to exit a program unless

you have to. Some application programs classify and store new data whenever you exit the program properly. If you reset the computer while such a program is running, you may lose data.

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

last, try them in the order listed here:

If you are using MS-DOS, hold down key on the numeric keypad at the right of the keyboard. The screen goes blank for a moment and then MS-DOS reloads. (MS-DOS must either be on the diskette or be autobootable from the hard disk.) If this does not correct the problem, try the second method.

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

Remove any diskettes from the floppy disk drives. Turn off the monitor and any peripheral devices and then turn off the Equity II+ using the power switch on the front panel of the main unit. Wait five seconds and then switch the power back on.

Ctrl

and

Alt

and press the

Del

Turning Off the Computer

Before you turn off your computer, save your data, exit the program you are using, and then remove all diskettes from the disk drives. Turn off your monitor and peripherals first, then turn off the main unit using the switch on the front panel.

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Chapter 3

Using Disks and Disk Drives

The disk drives in your computer allow you to store data on disk, and

retrieve and use stored data when you like. All Equity II+ systems have at

least one floppy disk drive; you may also have a hard disk drive and/or a

second floppy disk drive in your system. This chapter explains how disks

work and tells you how to:

Choose floppy disks

Care for your disks and disk drives

Protect your data

Use a single floppy disk drive

Use a hard disk drive.

How Disks Work

The floppy disks (diskettes) you insert in your system’s floppy disk drives are round pieces of flexible plastic coated with magnetic material and enclosed in protective jackets. Like a record, a diskette has circular tracks on both sides. The computer stores the data you enter as magnetic patterns on these circular tracks.

A small read/write head in the disk drive interprets the magnetic patterns. When a diskette is in a drive, the read/write head is right over the large oval hole in the diskette jacket. This hole allows the read/write head to

access the diskette when you store, retrieve, and delete data.

Unlike a floppy disk, a hard disk is rigid and fixed in place. It is sealed in

a protective environment free of dust and dirt, so you cannot see it. A hard

disk stores data the same way as a floppy disk, only it works faster and has a

much larger storage capacity.

Because data is stored magnetically, you can retrieve it, record over it, and

erase it-just as you play, record, and erase music on cassette tapes.

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Choosing Diskette Drives for the Equity II+

Your computer has one or more of the following types of drives: 360KB drive-Uses

ettes. (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. (With 8 sectors per track, a diskette holds 320KB.) KB stands for kilobyte; each kilobyte equals 1024 bytes.

1.2MB drive-Uses ettes. These diskettes contain 80 tracks per side, 15 sectors per track, and hold up to 1.2MB of information. MB stands for megabyte; each megabyte equals 1,048,576 bytes.

720KB drive-Uses ettes. These diskettes contain 80 tracks per side, 9 sectors per track, and hold up to 720KB of information.

1.44MB drive-Uses 3

ettes. These diskettes contain 80 tracks per side, 18 sectors per track, and

hold up to 1.44MB of information.

If your computer has more than one of these drive types, you need to be

aware of certain incompatibilities between the drives and the diskettes they use. These incompatibilities also apply to the same type of diskette drives on other compatible computers.

S&inch,

5%inch,

3V’z-inch,

S-inch,

double-sided, doubledensity, 360KB disk-

double-sided, high-density, 1.2MB disk-

double-sided, double-density, 720KB disk-

double-sided, high-density, 1.44MB disk-

Drive and diskette incompatibilities

Because of the difference in size, you cannot use

S&inch

using diskettes that are the same size as the drive but have different capaci-

ties. Tables 3-1 and 3-2 summarize the possibilities and limitations.

Drive type Diskette types it can read from and write to

360KB 160KB, 180KB, 320KB, or 360KB

1.2MB 160KB, 180KB, 320KB, or 360KB, and 1.2MB

drive or vice versa. Additionally, there are certain limitations on

Table 3-1. 5

J/&inch

drive/diskette compatibility

WARNING: If you write to a 360KB (or 160KB, 180KB, or

320KB) diskette while it is in a 1.2MB drive, you may not be able to read it or write to it in a 360KB drive later.

3-2

3%inch

diskettes in a

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Table 3-2.

3Xhch drive/diskette compatibility

Drive type

720KB

1.44MB 720KB, 1.44MB

If you have any combination of the above drives (360KB, 1.2MB,

720KB, and 1.44MB), y COPY command) as long as the correct diskette type is in each drive. You can also copy files between a hard disk and any type of diskette. You cannot use the DISKCOPY command to copy from one drive to another if the two

drives are not the same type.

If you have two drives of different types and want to copy from one diskette to another of the same type, you need to use MS-DOS to change your system’s drive configuration. You do this by inserting the MS-DOS command DRIVER.SYS in a configuration file. See your MS-DOS manual for instructions.

You can copy files between a hard disk and any type of diskette. See your

MS-DOS or other software manual for instructions on how to copy files.

Diskette types it can read from and write to

720KB

ou can copy files from one drive to another (using the

Caring for your Disks and Disk Drives

To avoid damaging floppy and hard disks, you need to care for them properly. Take these precautions to avoid losing data:

Keep disks away from dust and dirt. Small particles of dust or dirt scratch the magnetic surface and can destroy data. Dust can also ruin the read/write heads in a disk drive.

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

Keep disks in a moderate environment. They work best at roomtemperature and in normal humidity. Never leave diskettes sitting in the sun, or in extreme cold or heat. The temperature in a car in the middle of summer or winter can cause severe damage.

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Never touch a diskette’s magnetic surface. The oils on your fingertips can

damage it. Always hold a diskette by its protective jacket. On a

3%inch

diskette, do not expose the diskette’s surface by sliding the metal plate.

Store diskettes properly. When they are not in use, keep diskettes in their protective envelopes and store them in a diskette container.

Do not place anything on top of your diskettes and be sure they do not bend or sag. They do not rotate properly in the drive if damaged.

Never wipe, brush, or try to clean diskettes in any way. Be careful when you label diskettes. Attach labels firmly but gently, and

only along the top of a diskette (next to the manufacturer’s label). Do not place several labels on top of one another; too many labels can prevent a diskette from spinning freely in a disk drive.

It is best to write on a label before you attach it to a diskette. Use only

soft-tip pens (not ballpoint pens or pencils) to write on a label that is already on a diskette.

Do not remove a diskette or turn off the computer while the drive light is on. This light indicates that the computer is copying data to or from a disk. If you interrupt this process, you can destroy data.

Remove all diskettes before you turn off the computer.

If you have a hard disk drive, take these additional precautions:

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

l Never attempt to open the hard disk unit. The disk itself is enclosed in

an air-tight container to protect it from dust.

If you are going to move your computer (even to another part of the room), run the diagnostics program on your reference diskette called Prepare Hard Disk for Moving to move the read/write heads away from the recording area. See the Diagnostics section of this manual for

instructions.

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Protecting your Data

There are two ways to avoid losing data you store on disk: you can make

backup copies and you tan write-protect your diskettes.

You need to format new diskettes before you can use them with an operating system. Formatting erases all the data on a diskette and prepares it to receive new data, so be sure to format only new blank diskettes or diskettes that contain data you want to erase. Refer to your MS-DOS (or other operating system) manual for instructions on how to format diskettes.

Making backup copies

It is a good idea to make copies of all your data and system diskettes. Copy all diskettes that contain programs, such as the master system diskettes that come with the Equity II+, and use only the copies. Store your original system diskettes in a safe place away from your working diskettes. Copy your data diskettes regularly (preferably every day) to keep them up-to-date, and

store them away from your originals.

Your MS-DOS manual describes how to make a backup copy of your

MS-DOS startup and operating diskettes. To make backups of other

MS-DOS diskettes, use the DISKCOPY command or the DU (Disk Utility)

program.

If you have a hard disk, keep backup copies of all your program files on floppy disks, and regularly copy important data files to floppy disks as well. For more information on backing up a hard disk, see “Using a Hard Disk” in this chapter and your MS-DOS manual.

Write-protecting diskettes

You can write-protect a diskette to prevent its data from being altered. When a diskette is write-protected, you can 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, an error message displays.

To write-protect a notch shown in Figure 3-1 with an adhesive write-protect tab. Write-protect tabs usually come with new

to a

5%nch

diskette, remove the write-protect tab.

User’s Guide 3-5

S%inch

5%inch

diskette, cover the small, rectangular

diskettes when you buy them. To write

Page 40

‘Write-protect

notch

Figure 3-1. Write-protect notch

On a

3Sinch

lower-right corner on the back, shown in Figure 3-2. To write-protect this diskette, slide the switch down toward the edge of the diskette so there is a

hole where the switch used to be. To write to a

switch up toward the center of the diskette so the hole is covered.

diskette, the write-protect device is a small switch on the

3%inch

diskette, move the

Write-protected

3-6

Figure

3-2. Write-protect

switch

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Using Two Diskette Drives

Operating systems usually expect the computer to have at least two physical disk drives. Normally, MS-DOS recognizes drives A and B for two diskette drives, and C for the hard disk drive.

A typical way to use a two-drive system is to load MS-DOS from drive

A, run your application software from the same drive, and use drive B to store your data files.

Note: You can load MS-DOS from an application software diskette if

that diskette contains the operating system files including COMMAND.COM.

Using a Single Diskette Drive

If your system has only one diskette drive, MS-DO’S treats the single

drive as two logical drives. This helps you perform operations that normally

require two diskette drives.

For example, if you give a command to copy from one drive to another, MS-DOS copies from the first diskette you place in the drive to the computer’s memory. Then MS-DOS prompts you to insert another diskette and

copies from memory to the diskette you place in the drive. When copying is

complete, you see a prompt to insert the original diskette.

Because you may swap diskettes this way often, it is easy to forget which

diskette is which. One way to avoid accidentally losing data is to hold the diskette for one drive in your left hand and the diskette for the other in your right. You can also write-protect your source diskette. For more information on using one floppy disk drive with MS-DOS, see your MS-DOS manual.

Using a Hard Disk Drive

The optional hard disk for the Equity II+ has a capacity of 40 mega-

bytes-about 40 million characters. This is equivalent to approximately 110 double-density floppy disks. Using a hard disk reduces the number of floppy

disks you need and eliminates much of the disk-swapping you do when you use floppy disks. You can do almost all of your work on the hard disk and copy your files to floppy disks as needed (to make backups, for example).

While the hard disk is very reliable, it is essential to back up all your hard disk files on floppy disks in case you lose some data accidentally. Use the MS-DOS BACKUP program to back up your hard disk files.

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Although it has a lot of storage space, keep only files you use regularly on the hard disk, to ensure you always have plenty of space available. Store your other files on floppy disks.

Before you can use an Epson internal hard disk, you must do the follow-

ing things to prepare it:

Use the Setup program on your reference diskette to prepare your sys-

tem for using a hard disk, and then use the Format Hard Disk program

to format the hard disk.

Partition the hard disk to run the MS-DOS operating system using the MS-DOS program FDISK.

Format the MS-DOS partition with the MS-DOS program SELECT. Copy the MS-DOS utility programs to the hard disk using SELECT

For instructions on running the diagnostics program, see the Diagnostics section of this manual. For instructions on how to use the MS-DOS programs, refer to your MS-DOS manual.

Note: If you plan to use an operating system other than MS-DOS, you need

to use that operating system to partition the hard disk and copy the system files to it.

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Chapter 4

Installing Option Cards

Option cards are accessories that you can install in your Equity II+ to provide extra capabilities. For example, you can add another disk drive or an auto-dial modem.

The Equity II+ has six option card slots, so it can hold up to six cards. The parallel and serial interface and floppy disk controller card occupies one slot. If your Equity II+ has a hard disk, a hard disk controller card occupies another slot. The video card that controls your monitor occupies the fifth slot.

You can buy option cards from Epson as well as other vendors. Multi-

function cards, which allow you to add features without using multiple

option card slots, are also available. Consult your dealer for more informa-

tion.

This chapter describes how to remove and replace the main unit’s cover,

and install and remove an option card.

Removing the Cover

To install an option card, you need to remove the cover from your

Equity II+.

WARNING: Never open the cover of the Equity II+ while it is

plugged into an electrical outlet. Before you open the cover, turn off the power switches on the main unit and each peripheral, let the computer stand for a few minutes, and then unplug the power cable.

If the monitor is on top of the computer, lift it off and set it to one side. Turn the main unit around so the back panel faces you.

As shown in Figure 4-1, the top cover is secured by five screws on the back panel and four screws on the side panels (two on each side). Remove the screws and put them all safely to one side. They are small so

be careful when you take them out.

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Figure 4-1. Back and side

Turn the main unit around so the front panel faces you. Hold on to the two sides of the cover and carefully pull it straight toward you, away from the back of the computer, as shown in Figure 4-2. The cover fits tightly, so if you have trouble moving it at first, keep pulling it firmly.

panel screws

4-2

Figure 4-2.

Sliding

back the cover

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You can separate the sides of the cover from the bottom ledge of the computer by pulling them outward slightly, as shown in Figure 4-3.

Figure

4-3. Remodeling the cover

When the back edge of the cover is a few inches away from the back panel, you can lift the cover off. Set the cover aside.

Installing an Option Card

Figure 4-4 shows the six option slots in the Equity II+. Slot 6 contains the parallel and serial interface and floppy disk controller card. Be sure to install the video card in slot 5.

Slots 1,5, and 6 are designed for 8-bit option cards and the other threeslots 2 through 4-are designed for 16-bit option cards. Figure 4-5 shows both types of cards. As you can see, the 16-bit card has a second connector.

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Figure 4-4. Option slots

4-4

16-bit option

car

Figure 4-5. 16-bit and &bit option cards

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Except for the video card, it does not matter which slot an option card occupies, as long as the card fits in the slot. For example, you can place some 8-bit cards in a 16-bit slot. But if an 8-bit card has an additional skirt along the bottom (which looks like an extra long connector), it must go in an 8-bit slot.

The video card must be installed in slot 5. See Figure 4-4 to see how the slots are numbered. Also, some other cards must be installed in a specific slot. If you have such a card, the instructions that come with it specify which slot you need to use.

Option cards fit in the slots only one way, but be sure to examine the card first and follow the instructions closely.

Decide which option slot you want to use. If the card has an external

connector (such as a monitor card), you need to remove the option slot

cover at the back of that slot. See Figure 4-6. Remove the retaining screw

from the top of the metal option slot cover and keep it to secure the

option card to the computer, Lift out the slot cover and keep it in a safe

place in case you remove the option card later.

User’s Guide

Figure 4-6. Removing an option slot cover

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Unpack the option card and adjust any switches or jumper connections on it if necessary. (For example, a memory expansion card usually contains DIP switches that you need to set. See the option card instructions.)

Note:

If the option card you are installing requires you to change any of the jumper connections on the Equity II+ main circuit board, memory card, or multi-function card, see Appendix A, “Jumper Settings.”

When you handle the card, be careful not to touch any of the contacts on the circuit board, especially the gold-edged connections. If you need to set it down before you install it, place it on top of its original packing material with the component side facing down.

Keep the card’s packing materials in case you remove the card later. Grip the card firmly by the top corners and position it at the top of the

slot. Make sure the contact pins point down and the components face the inside of the main unit.

Insert the card in the slot as shown in Figure 4-7. When the card is almost all the way in, make sure the tab at the bottom of the metal adapter plate on the end of the card goes into the corresponding notch

at the back of the computer.

4-6

Figure 4-7. Inserting

an option card

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Page 49

Once the connector pins are sitting in the connector slot, push the card downward firmly (but carefully) to fully insert it. If the card does not go in smoothly, do not force it-pull it all the way out and try again, keeping it straight.

Secure the adapter plate on the end of the card to the back of the computer with the retaining screw.

Removing an Option Card

To remove an option card, follow the same basic procedure you used to install it. Remove the screw holding the adapter and pull the card straight up and out of the connector. Then carefully wrap the card, preferably with the original packing materials, and place it inside its box for safe storage. Cover the end of the empty option slot with the original metal cover and retaining screw. If you modified anything in the post-installation setup (see below), be sure to change it back.

Replacing the Cover

After you install (or remove) an option card, follow these steps to replace

the main unit’s cover:

With the front of the computer facing you, position the cover on the computer.

Pull the sides outward slightly and lower the cover over the computer. Guide the curved edge on the bottom of the cover along the bottom of

the computer.

Slide the cover straight back until the front panel is flush with the diskette drive. Make sure the power switch fits properly through the opening on the front panel.

To secure the cover, replace the screws on the back and side panels.

Return the main unit to its original position and place the monitor on

top, if that is where you keep it. Then reconnect the main unit to the

monitor, the keyboard, and any other peripherals you have.

Check to be sure the power switch on the main unit is off. Then recon-

nect the power cable to the back of the main unit and to an electrical

outlet.

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Post-installation Setup

After you install an option card (and replace the main unit’s cover and reconnect the power cord and peripherals), you may need to run the Setup program on the reference diskette to update the configuration information. For example, if you add a hard disk, you need to tell the computer that it has the additional drive. See the Diagnostics section of this manual for instructions.

You may also need to add some commands in the configuration file on your system disk. See your MS-DOS manual for instructions.

When you finish installing an option and reconfiguring the system, you should test the option if possible. Some options come with their own test programs, and you can test others using the diagnostics programs on the reference diskette that came with the Equity II+. These include:

l Expansion memory l 80287 numeric coprocessor

Serial and parallel ports

Monitors and display adapters

l Disk drives.

See the Diagnostics section of this manual for instructions.

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Chapter 5

Troubleshooting

You should not encounter any serious difficulties as you set up and use your Equity II+. But if anything out of the ordinary happens, refer to this chapter. Usually, such a situation requires nothing more than adjusting a cable connection, repeating a software procedure, or resetting the computer.

You can use the suggestions here to solve most problems you may encounter. If the recommended solution does not work, consult an Epson dealer about servicing the computer.

WARNING: If you need to turn off the computer for any reason,

always wait at least five seconds before you turn it back on. You can damage the Equity II+ if you turn it off and on rapidly.

The Computer Fails To Start Up

If the computer does not start up when you turn on the power switch,

follow these steps to find a solution:

Check to see if the power light on the front panel is on. If it is not, remove any diskettes and then turn off the power. Wait five seconds, then turn the power back on.

If the power light still does not come on, turn off the power switch.

Check to see that the power cable is securely connected to both the AC inlet on the back panel and the electrical outlet. Then turn the power

back on.

If the computer still does not start up, check the electrical outlet. Plug a

portable lamp into the outlet you are using for the computer and turn it

on to see if the outlet supplies power.

The Video Display Does Not Appear

If the computer starts up but no image appears on the screen, follow

these steps to solve the problem:

Check to see that the power indicator on the video monitor is on. If it is not, turn off the monitor’s power, wait five seconds, then turn the power back on. Wait to see if the display screen image appears.

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Use the controls on the monitor to turn up the brightness and contrast. Remove any diskettes, then turn off the power switches on the monitor

and the main unit. Check that the monitor’s power cable is securely

connected to the electrical outlet and that the monitor cable is properly

connected to both the monitor and the main unit. Turn both power switches back on.

Turn off the power switches on both the main unit and the monitor. Then check the electrical outlet for power. Plug a portable lamp into the

outlet you are using for the monitor and turn it on to see if the outlet supplies power.

The Computer Does Not Respond

If the computer does not respond to something you enter from the key-

board, try the following:

Wait a few seconds. Some operations take longer to perform than others. For example, a spreadsheet program takes longer to recalculate an entire spreadsheet than to record one figure. Also, BASIC programs that have a lot of calculations to perform can take several minutes, or even hours. Be aware of the task the computer is performing and judge the time accordingly

If the computer remains locked up, follow the steps in Chapter 2 under

“Resetting the Computer.”

Floppy Disk Problems

If you have trouble with a diskette, check the following questions:

Is the diskette damaged? Copy the diskette and repeat the operation that

caused the problem using the copy. (If you have trouble copying the entire diskette, some of the sectors may be bad. Try to copy single files

with the COPY command.) If the operation works using the copy, the

original diskette is probably damaged. Make another copy to use as a backup.

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Have you inserted the right type of diskette? The diskette type is normally shown on the manufacturer’s label. See ‘Choosing Diskettes for the Equity II+ ” and “Drive and diskette incompatibilities” in Chapter 3.

Is the diskette write-protected? There may be a write-protect tab over the

notch on the side of the diskette may be set (on a

the switch, check the directory to see what files the diskette contains-it

may contain information you do not want to change or lose. (Your operating system manual describes how to display a directory.) Although you should normally write-protect all program diskettes, some programs store temporary files on the diskette. These programs do not work if you write-protect the diskette.

3%inch

diskette). Before you remove the tab or move

(5%inch)

or the write-protect switch

Hard Disk Problems

If you have problems with your hard disk when you first start to use it,

check to see if it has been set up properly. See “Using a Hard Disk Drive” in

Chapter 3 and refer to your MS-DOS manual.

If you cannot access data stored on your hard disk, you may have accidentally repartitioned or reformatted part or all of the hard disk. If you have not done so and your hard disk does not function properly, have an authorized Epson service center check your hard disk. Never open the air-tight container that encloses the recording disk.

Software Problems

If you have trouble with a software program, check the following possible problems and solutions:

The software program does not start. Check that you are following the

correct procedure for your operating system. Be sure you insert the system diskette in drive A (the top drive).

An application routine does not work. Refer to the software manual and complete the routine according to the instructions. If this does not work, reset the computer (as described in Chapter 2 under “Resetting the Computer”), reload the program, and try the routine again.

To operate properly, some programs require the computer to run at 8 MHz. Try changing the CPU speed with the switch on the front panel. See “Selecting Execution Speed” in Chapter 2.

User’s Guide 5-3

Page 54

Printer Problems

Your printer manual describes methods to solve most printer problems. If your printer does not work correctly right after you install it, make sure the printer has power and is properly connected to the computer. The printer manual tells you how to connect your printer.

If you have printing problems, check the printer manual for the printer’s DIP switch settings. The DIP switches on a printer help it communicate properly with the computer.

Be sure your software is set up for your printer.

Option Card Problems

If you install an option card and get unexpected results, check the

following:

Is the option card installed correctly?

Did you follow the setup and operation procedures in the option card instructions?

Did you set any necessary DIP switches or jumpers on the option card? See your option card instructions.

Did you change any necessary jumper settings in the main unit? See

Appendix A, “Jumper Settings.”

If you added an external device, did you use the proper cable to connect

the peripheral to the port or option card connector on the back panel?

Did you perform any necessary post-installation setup procedures for the operating system? Refer to the Diagnostics section in this manual, your MS-DOS manual, or other software manual for instructions.

5-4

User’s Guide

Page 55

Appendix A

Jumper Settings

This appendix describes how to set the jumpers inside the Equity II+ if you install optional devices that require different jumper settings in the main unit. It is best if your dealer installs the option and makes all the necessary

adjustments when you buy it. If you decide to do it yourself, be very careful when you follow the procedures in this appendix. There are many system components that can be damaged accidentally

The Equity II+ jumpers you may need to change are on the:

l Main circuit board l Memory card

Multifunction card (parallel port, serial port, and floppy disk controller).

Figure A-l shows where each of these cards is located in the computer.

Multi-function card

User’s Guide

Main circuit board

Figure A-1. Location of cards

Memory card

A-1

Page 56

WARNING:

The procedure for changing a jumper setting is given first, then the

jumper functions and locations for each card are described separately. All the

instructions assume you have already removed the cover from the main unit. For instructions on removing the cover, replacing the cover, and installing

and removing option cards, see Chapter 4.

Changing a Jumper Setting

A jumper’s setting is determined by where the jumper is placed: either

between pin A and the middle pin (position A) or between pin B and the

middle pin (position B). Figure A-2 shows both positions.

The jumpers on these cards are preset at the factory in default positions. Do not change any of them unless you are sure the option card you are installing

requires different settings. If you have any doubts, ask your Epson dealer.

Position A

&&be

To move a jumper from one position to the other, use needle-nose pliers or tweezers to lift it off the board and gently move it to the other position. Be careful not to lose the jumper or leave it out of the computer.

Memory Card Jumpers

The jumpers on the memory card control the following functions: Amount of RAM (main memory). If you install a memory card that

needs to use part of the main memory, you may need to change the jumper settings to disable some of the main memory on the memory card. Be sure to check your memory card instructions to see if this is

necessary

@be

Figure A-2. Jumper

positions

Position B

A-2

User’s Guide

Page 57

EPROM size. You can change the EPROM size jumper if you install a

different size of EPROM. In all cases, make sure you need to alter the jumper settings for the

option you are installing before you change anything.

Table A-l shows the functions for the jumpers on

Table A-1. Memory card jumper

JumperZnumber

B B

Default setting

3 A A

Function

640KB * 512KB (disable upper 128KB)

256KB (disable upper 384KB)

Select EPROM size 27128*

Select EPROM size 27256

the memory card.

settings

To access the memory card jumpers, you need to remove the card from

the main unit first:

Remove the retaining screw from the bracket on the memory card, as shown in Figure A-3.

Figure A-3. Removing memory card retaining screw

User’s Guide

Page 58

Lift the card gently out of the computer, taking care not to catch it on any cables inside the computer. Set it on a soft surface, such as a towel,

with the component side facing up. Figure A-4 shows the locations of the three jumpers. Refer to Table A-l

above to set them as needed.

Figure A-4. Memory card jumpers

When you finish setting the jumpers, replace the memory card in the

computer and secure it with the retaining screw.

Main Circuit Board Jumpers

The jumpers on the main circuit board control the following functions:

l Number of wait states for EPROM. If necessary, you can change the

number of wait states (1 or 2) used by the EPROM. Selectable wait states

are available only when your computer is running at 12MHz. Please

consult your dealer for assistance.

l Number of wait states for 16-bit device access. If necessary, you can

change the number of wait states (1, 2, 3, or 4) required by the 16-bit optional devices. Selectable wait states are available only when your computer is running at 12MHz. Please consult your dealer for assistance.

A-4

User’s Guide

Page 59

Math coprocessor clock speed. If you or your dealer installs an 80287

math coprocessor, you may need to set the jumpers for a different clock speed. The jumpers determine the speed of the coprocessor.

As it is easy to damage a math coprocessor, you should have your dealer

install it for you. In addition to checking the jumper settings, you or the

dealer should also use the diagnostics’ Setup program to change the

settings in the CMOS RAM, and use the System Diagnostics program to test the coprocessor.

Table A-2 shows the functions for the jumpers on the main circuit

board.

Jumper number

A A B A A B B B

Table A-2.

A B B

Main

circuit

Function

board jumper

settings

1 wait state for EPROM access

2 wait states for EPROM access

1 wait state for 16-bit option card * 2 wait states for 16-bit option card 3 wait states for 16-bit option card 4 wait states for 16-bit option card

A Set coprocessor clock at 8 MHz *

Set coprocessor at 1/3 of CPU speed

* Default setting

To access the main circuit board jumpers, you must remove the memory

card from the computer, as described above. Do not try to access the jumpers

while this card is still in the computer.

Figure A-5 shows the locations of jumpers J1-J5 on the main circuit

board. Refer to Table A-2 above to set them as needed.

When you finish changing the jumpers, carefully replace the memory

card in its slot and secure it with the retaining screw.

User’s Guide

A-5

Page 60

Figure

A-5.

Main circuit board jumpers

Multi-function Card Jumpers

The jumpers on the multi-function card control the parallel port address and the serial port address. You normally address the parallel and serial ports in the computer as the primary ports (LPT1 and COM1). However, if you install an additional parallel or serial port and want it to be the primary port, you need to change the jumpers on the multi-function card so the built-in port becomes secondary (JPT2 and COM2).

Table A-3 shows the jumpers on the multi-function card that con-

trol the parallel port.

Table A-3. Multi-function card jumper

Jumper number Function

Default setting

4 A A B

A B A

A-6

settings

Enable built-in port as primary

for parallel port

Enable built-in port as secondary Enable compatibility with IBM monochrome

display/printer adapter Disable built-in port

User’s Guide

Page 61

Table A-4 shows the jumpers on the multi-function card that control the

serial port.

Table A-4. Multi-function card jumper settings for serial port

Jumpert3number

A A A B

Default setting

To access the multi-function card jumpers, you need to remove the card

from the computer:

Unplug the disk drive cable from the card as shown in Figure A-6. Pull it straight up and out, then lay it to one side.

Function

Enable built-in port as primary * Enable built-in port as secondary

Disable built-in port

Figure A-6. Disconnecting disk drive cable

from multi-function card

Remove the retaining screw from the multi-function card at the back panel of the computer, as shown in Figure A-7.

User’s Guide

A-7

Page 62

Figure A-7.

Remove the card from the slot (pull it straight up) and set it on a soft

Removing

multi-function card retaining screw

surface with the components facing up. Figure A-8 shows where the jumpers are located. Change them

needed and then reverse the three steps above to reinstall it.

Figure A-8. Multi-function card jumpers

A-8

User’s Guide

Page 63

Equity II+ Specifications

CPU and Memory

16-bit CPU

Appendix B

80286 microprocessor; 8 or 12 MHz clockrate, switch-selectable

Real address (8086-compatible) and protected virtual address (multi-tasking or multiuser) modes

24-bit address and 16-bit data bus

Main memory

ROM

Math coprocessor

Controllers

Floppy disk

Hard disk

Interfaces

Serial

Printer

640KB RAM on memory card; expandable to 15.5MB maximum with expansion cards

32KB, expandable to 64KB, selectable alternate ROM for custom use

80287 (8 MHz) support (optional)

Supports up to two drives available in any of

four formats: double-density (360KB),

double-density (720KB), high-density (1.2MB), or high-density (1.44MB); controller on multifunction card

Supports up to two drives available in multiple formats (including 10MB, 20MB, 30MB, and 40MB); installs in option slot

RS-232C DB-9P male connector

Standard 8-bit parallel, DB-25S female connector

, programmable, asynchronous,

User's Guide

B-l

Page 64

Interfaces

Option slots

(continued)

Six IBM-compatible input/output expansion slots: one occupied by parallel and serial interface and floppy disk controller card; five slots available for options in base configuration: three with l6-bit bus and two with 8-bit bus

Speaker Clock/calendar/

RAM

Power Supply

Mass Storage

Standard

Optional

Internal, programmable Real-time clock, calendar, and 64-byte

CMOS RAM for configuration; battery backup

Switching type, fan-cooled, 115/230 VAC,

140 W

VDC,

Three drives maximum, configurable using three half-height slots (horizontal mounts)

5%inch,

double-sided, high-density, 1.2MB storage capacity

5%inch,

double-sided, high-density, 1.2MB storage capacity

51/G-inch,

double-sided, double-density, 360KB storage capacity

(peak); + 5 VDC, +

50/60

-12 VDC;

half-height floppy disk drive;

VDC,

-5

Optional

B-2

31%inch, half-height floppy disk drive; dou-

ble-sided, high-density, 1.44MB storage

capacity

31/z-inch,

double-sided, double-density, 720KB storage

capacity

half-height floppy disk drive;

User’s Guide

Page 65

Optional

Keyboard

31/l-inch

height internal hard disk drive.

Detachable, three positions, 101 sculpted keys

51/&inch,

half-height or full-

Layout

Function keys

58-key QWERTY main keyboard; 17-key numeric/cursor pad; 10 cursor keys; 12 function keys (user-definable)

Three levels (normal/shift/alternate), userdefinable

Environmental Requirements

Temperature

Humidity

Operating range: 41° to 90°F

(5° to 35°C)

Storage range: -4° to 140°F

(-20° to 60°C)

Operating range: 20% to 80%,

non-condensing

Storage range: 10% to 90%,

non-condensing

Physical Characteristics (CPU Only)

Width, inches (mm) Depth, inches (mm)

15.7 (400)

16.3 (414)

Height, inches (mm)

Weight, pounds (kg)

6.1 (155)

19.8 (9) Single floppy disk drive

25.08 (11.4) Single floppy disk drive and

Power Requirements

115/230 VAC f 20%, 50/60 Hz, 5 amps; 140 W output capacity (peak)

User’s Guide

one 40MB hard disk

B-3

Page 66

Options

Monochrome video card

TTL green or amber High-persistence, P-39 phosphor screen; monochrome monitor (12-inch diagonal)

Supports Epson- or IBM-compatible monochrome monitor; 80-character x 25-line display; 9 x 14 character block; installs in option slot

etched surface to reduce glare; 22 MHz video bandwidth; 35 W

Color/graphics video card

RGB color monitor (13-inch diagonal)

Multiple graphics video card

Enhanced graphics video card

Supports Epson- or IBM-compatible RGB color or composite video monitor; 40character x 25-line display (low-resolution text); 80-character x 25-line display (highresolution text); 640 x 200 (high-resolution graphics), 320 x 200 four colors, 160 x 200 eight colors; installs in option slot

High-contrast screen; 16 colors; etched

surface to reduce glare; 18 MHz video bandwidth

Supports Epson- and IBM-compatible mono-

chrome or color monitor; monochrome text,

color graphics, and Hercules™ (monochrome) graphics, switch-selectable; installs

in option slot

Supports Epson- and IBM-compatible mono-

chrome, color, or enhanced color monitor;

monochrome text (80-character x 25-line

display), Hercules text (80-character x 43-line

display); color graphics, 640 x 200 pixels

B/W; monochrome graphics, 640 x 350;

color/graphics, 640 x 350, 16 colors; installs

in option slot

Enhanced graphics monitor (13-inch diagonal)

B-4

Enhanced color monitor; 80-character x 25-

line display (high-resolution text); 640 x 350

high resolution; 640 x 200 resolution compat-

ibility; 16 colors

User’s Guide

Page 67

Appendix C

Glossary

ASCII

American Standard Code for Information Interchange. A standardized coding system for representing characters, such as numbers, letters, and graphic symbols. An ASCII character occupies one byte of storage. Files transmitted in ASCII code can be used by many different computers, printers, and programs.

Asynchronous

A method of data transmission in which one machine sends data one

character at a time to another, without either machine preparing for the

transmission.

Backup

An extra copy of a program, data file, or disk, kept in case your working copy is damaged or lost.

Bit

A binary digit (0 or 1). The smallest unit of computer storage. The value of a bit represents the presence (1) or absence (0) of an electric charge.

Boot

To load a program or an operating system.

Byte

A sequence or group of eight bits that represents one character,

Character

Anything that can print in a single space on the page or the screen. Includes numbers, letters, punctuation marks, and graphic symbols.

CMOS

Complementary Metal-Oxide Semiconductor. A method for making silicon chips.

Code

A system of symbols for representing data or instructions. Also any software program or part of a program.

User’s Guide

C-l

Page 68

Command

An instruction you enter on the keyboard to direct your computer to perform a specific function.

Configuration

The particular setup of a group of components. For example, a typical system configuration consists of a CPU with two floppy disk drives, con-

nected to a monochrome monitor and a printer.

Control code

A command (generated when you hold down Ctrl and press another key on the keyboard) that instructs your computer to perform a specific function.

CPU

Central Processing Unit. The piece of hardware that interprets instruc-

tions, performs the tasks you indicate, keeps track of stored data, and

controls all input and output operations.

Cursor

The highlighted marker that shows your position on the screen and

moves as you enter and delete data.

Data

Information stored or processed by a computer.

Data diskette

A formatted diskette used to store files.

Diagnostics

The tests and procedures the computer performs to check its internal

circuitry and set up its configuration.

DIP switches

Small switches on a piece of hardware such as a CPU, a printer, or an option card. DIP switch settings control various functions and provide a system with information about itself. DIP stands for Dual In-Line Package.

Index

AC inlet, 1-6, 5-1 AC outlet, 1-6 Adjusting keyboard legs, 1-10 Application program, 2-4, 5-4 ASCII codes, 1-13 Asynchronous, B-1 Auxiliary power outlet, 1-3, 1-6, 1-9

BACKUP program, 3-7 Backup copies, 1-15, 3-5, 3-7 Booting MS-DOS, 1-15

Diagnostics

This section describes the diagnostics programs you use the first time you set up your system and

any time you make changes to it.

Page 81

Diagnostics

Page 82

Introduction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Starting the Diagnostics The Power-on Self Test The OPERATION MENU

Diagnostics and MS-DOS Commands

Setting Up the System

Using the Setup Program Changing the Amount of Memory Using a Different Type of Display Adding an 80287 Coprocessor

Changing Disk Drives Setting the Real-time Clock

Formatting a Hard Disk

Formatting and Checking Options Conditional Format (Normal) Unconditional Format Destructive Surface Analysis Non-destructive Surface Analysis

Formatting a Diskette

Performing System Diagnostics

Using the System Diagnostics Program

Modifying the DEVICE LIST

Selecting a test

Resuming from an error System Board Check Memory Check Keyboard Check Monochrome Display Adapter and CRT Check

Monochrome adapter check Attribute check

Character set check

Videocheck ..................................

Synccheck ...................................

Run all above checks

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

......

Intro-1

Intro-2 Intro-2 Intro-3 Intro4

1-1 1-1 1-2

1-4 1-5 1-6 1-7

2-1 2-1 2-2 2-5

2-6 2-8

3-1 4-1

4-2 4-3 4-4 4-5 4-6 4-6 4-7 4-8 4-9

4-9 4-10 4-10 4-11 4-11

Diagnostics

iii

Page 83

Color Graphics Adapter and CRT Check

Color graphics adapter check Attribute check Character set check 40-column character set check

320x200 graphics mode check

640x200 graphics mode check

Screen paging check Light pen check Color video check

Sync check Run all above checks

Floppy Disk Drives and Controller Check

Sequential seek check Random seek check Write, read check

Speedcheck

Disk change check

Run all above checks

Math Coprocessor Check (80287) Parallel Port (Printer Interface) Check Parallel Port (on Video Adapter) Check

Serial Port (RS-232C) Check Alternate Serial Port Check

Dot-matrix Printer Check

Hard Disk Drives and Controller Check

Seekcheck Write, read check Head select check

Error detection and correction check Read, verify check Run all above checks

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

...........

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

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

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

4-11 4-12 4-12 4-12 4-13 4-14 4-14

4-15 4-15 4-16 4-16 4-17

4-17 4-18 4-18 4-18

4-19 4-19 4-20 4-20 4-21 4-21

4-21 4-23 4-23 4-24 4-25 4-25 4-26 4-26

4-27 4-27

Moving the Hard Disk . . . . . . . . . . . . .

. .

. . . . . . . . . .

5-1

Diagnostics

Page 84

Appendixes

Error Codes and Messages . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Types of Hard Disk Drives . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

C Power-on Diagnostics

System Device Check

Clock and CMOS RAM Check ...................

RAM Check ...................................

Keyboard Controller and Keyboard Check ..........

Display Card Check .............................

Optional RAM Check ...........................

Floppy Disk Drive Seek Check ....................

Hard Disk Controller and Hard

Disk Check ..................................

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

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

. . . .

. .

. . .

A-1

B-1

C-1 C-1 C-2 C-2 C-3

C-3 C-4 C-4

C-4

Tables

A-1 Error codes and messages . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

B-1 Drive types . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

A-1

B-1

Diagnostics

Page 85

Diagnostics

Page 86

Introduction

This special section of your manual describes how to initialize your Epson® system after it is assembled, and how to test the condition of your computer and peripherals.

To set up and test your system, you use a group of programs called diag-

nostics on the reference diskette. Depending on the system you purchased, these programs and some of the screen displays may vary. The five main diagnostics programs are:

Setup

Format hard disk

Format diskette

System diagnostics

Prepare hard disk for moving

The reference diskette also contains these MS-DOS commands:

Use this program when you first set up the computer, and each time you make changes to the system.

Use this program to check or format the entire hard disk after installation.

Use this program to format a diskette for use

by the System diagnostics tests. This pro-

gram is provided for convenience only, so that you can format a diskette without exiting diagnostics.

Use these programs whenever you add or remove optional devices, or if you suspect that the system is defective. You also run these diagnostics after moving the system from one place to another and after replacing the internal battery.

Use this program before moving the computer to another location.

EXE2BIN HDCACHE

HDSIT

LINK

Diagnostics

Converts an executable file to a binary file.

Enhances hard disk performance by storing copies of requested sectors in a cache buffer.

Prepares the hard disk for moving. Combines several programs into one.

Intro-1

Page 87

ROMBIOS

Displays the computer’s ROM BIOS version

number.

SYSTAT

These commands are easy to use. The ROMBIOS command displays

the ROM BIOS version number for your computer. When you type

ROMBIOS

and press

Enter,

Displays the system parameters.

you see a message similar to this:

ROM BIOS Version 2.00

The SYSTAT command displays the system information you supply

when you run the Setup program. After you run Setup, you can type

SYSTAT

EXE2BIN, HDCACHE, HDSIT, and LINK.

and press

See your MS-DOS manual for information regarding the use of

Enter

to display the system parameters.

Starting the Diagnostics

To start the diagnostics programs, follow these steps:

Turn off the computer and wait for a few seconds.

Place the reference diskette in drive A, and close the door of the disk drive.

Turn on the computer.

When you turn the power on, the computer performs a self test and then

automatically starts the diagnostics program.

The Power-on Self Test

Whenever you turn on or reset the computer, the system performs a

built-in diagnostics program called the power-on self test. This test checks the

RAM (random access memory), keyboard, system board, and peripherals before the computer begins normal operation.

If the self test finds a discrepancy between the equipment installed on the

computer and the equipment list maintained by the computer, the system

asks you to run the Setup program (on the reference diskette) to change the

equipment list.

For a complete description of the power-on self test and any error mes-

sages it may produce, refer to Appendix C.

Intro-2

Diagnostics

Page 88

The OPERATION MENU

After the power-on self test completes successfully, the diagnostics programs start. Depending on the exact system you purchased, these programs and certain screen displays may vary. A typical OPERATION MENU looks like this:

OPERATION MENU 1 - Setup

Format hard disk

3 - Format diskette 4 - System diagnostics

- Prepare hard disk for moving

5 0 - Exit to DOS for more utilities

Enter selection number:

To select one of the diagnostics programs, press a number from 1 to 5

and press

convenience only. This option lets you format diskettes for use by the System diagnostics tests without exiting from the diagnostics programs.

Enter.

Option 3, Format diskette, is included on the OPERATlON MENU for

To use the other utility programs on the reference diskette, select 0 from the OPERATION MENU. Then start the utility from the MS-DOS prompt.

Option 0 exits the diagnostics programs in one of the following ways:

If you have not run a diagnostics program, you see this selection on the

OPERATION MENU:

0 - Exit to DOS for more utilities

In this case, when you press 9 and

Diagnostics

Enter,

you see the MS-DOS prompt.

Intro-3

Page 89

If you have run a diagnostics program, you see this selection:

- Exit and reset

In this case, when you press 0 and Enter, the system is reset. Before selecting this option, remove the reference diskette from drive A and insert your startup diskette so the system can boot normally. To boot from your hard disk, be sure to remove the diskette from drive A.

This manual describes each menu item in the order it appears on the

OPERATION MENU.

Diagnostics and MS-DOS Commands

Each choice on the OPERATION MENU corresponds to an MS-DOS

command:

OPERATION MENU Choice Setup

Format hard disk Format diskette System diagnostics Prepare hard disk for moving

You can copy these MS-DOS commands, with the exception of DIAGSYS, to your hard disk or to a directory on another floppy disk. You can then execute them as individual MS-DOS commands. To copy these commands, use the COPY command described in your MS-DOS manual.

You can also execute the commands directly from the reference diskette, without loading diagnostics. For example, if you are logged onto drive C,

and you want to prepare your hard disk for moving, follow these steps:

Insert the reference diskette into drive A.

In response to the C) prompt, type:

MS-DOS Command SETUP

HDFMTALL FORMAT DIAGSYS HDSIT

A : HDSIT

3. Press Enter.

To use the diagnostics program, DIAGSYS, you must always boot the

system with the reference diskette in drive A. If you attempt to start this

program in any other way, the tests may produce unreliable results.

Intro-4

Diagnostics

Page 90

Chapter 1

Setting Up the System

This chapter describes how to use the Setup program to make changes

to the list of equipment maintained by the computer. You can select Setup

from the OPERATION MENU, or you can execute the MS-DOS SETUP

command.

You must run Setup when you use your computer for the first time. You also need to use Setup if you change your system configuration by installing or removing optional devices, or if your system has a real-time clock and you want to alter the date or time.

Your computer stores the information you define with Setup in CMOS RAM, which is backed up by a battery. When you turn on the computer, it searches CMOS RAM to obtain the correct installation information. If there is a difference between the information in CMOS RAM and the actual configuration, you see a prompt to run the Setup program.

Using the Setup Program

To start the Setup program from the diagnostics OPERATION MENU, press 1 and then press

Enter.

To run the Setup program from the MS-DOS prompt, type

press

Enter.

When you start Setup, the main menu appears:

Use t and 1 to move the cursor block through the options on this menu.

Once you highlight the option you want, press Enter to select it. Each option on the main menu (except Exit) displays an additional submenu of choices.

Diagnostics

SETUP

and

1-1

Page 91

You can exit a submenu in one of the following ways:

l To exit the submenu without making any changes, press

cursor block returns to the main menu, or simply press ESC. This cancels any changes you just made to the configuration.

To set your changes, press 1 to highlight press

Enter.

CMOS RAM and reboots using the new settings.

When you finish using the Setup program, select the Exit option from the main menu. The program displays a list of the current settings you just made. Check the list before placing the settings in CMOS RAM. Below the list you see this menu:

When you exit Setup, the computer writes the changes to

** SAVE SETTINGS

until the

** and then

Exit without saving

** EXIT AND SAVE **

If any setting is incorrect, press

and you can correct the setting.

If you did not make any changes, or if you want to cancel the changes you made, you can return to the OPERATION MENU or the MS-DOS prompt without re-booting the computer. Press 1 to highlight the option

Exit without saving and press

Enter.

The main menu appears again,

When the settings are correct, press 1 to highlight the option ** EXIT

AND SAVE

RAM, and then resets the computer using the new configuration.

If the computer displays a Setup error message during the power-on self

test, run Setup again and check all your settings.

** and press

Enter.

The program writes the settings in CMOS

Changing the Amount of Memory

Use the Memory option to change the amount of memory the system

recognizes after you install or remove an optional memory board. The maxi-

mum amount of memory MS-DOS uses is 640KB. Certain MS-DOS applications and other operating systems may require expansion memory You can also use expansion memory to set up RAM disks for temporary storage,

using the VDISK.SYS driver. See your MS-DOS manual for information

regarding VDISK.SYS.

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Note: If memory on an option board overlaps the computer’s main

memory, you must disable that part of memory-either on the

option board or on the built-in memory board. To reduce the

amount of main memory, you must use the Main option (of this program) and also change a jumper on the built-in memory board. You can find instructions for changing the jumper settings in your User’s Guide.

To change the amount of memory, follow these steps:

On the main menu, press 1 to move the cursor block to Memory and press

Enter.

Press 1 and t to move the cursor block to the setting you want to change: Main or Expansion.

When the cursor block is on the Main option, this message appears at

the bottom of the screen:

‘T

return to main menu, 1 select option, Enter

change main memory size

This menu appears on the screen:

0 KB Expansion

** SAVE SETTINGS **

Press

Enter

You can set the amount of main memory to 256KB, 512KB, or 640KB.

When the cursor block is on the Expansion option, this message appears

at the bottom of the screen:

memory size

Press + to increase or press memory. You can set the amount of expansion memory in increments of 64KB within the range from 0 to 15,360KB.

5. When your memory settings are correct, move the cursor block to ** SAVE SETTINGS **. You see this prompt:

select option, Enter set memory size

Press

Enter

Diagnostics

to change between the possible amounts of main memory.

select option,

to set the new memory size and return to the main menu.

+ or - change expansion

to decrease the amount of expansion

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Using a Different Type of Display

Use the Display option if you change the monitor or video card you are using with your computer. The Display setting in CMOS RAM controls the amount of memory used for storing the image on your monitor screen.

Note: Make sure that the monitor switch on the front panel or the DIP

switch inside the main unit is set correctly for the type of monitor you are using. See your User’s Guide for instructions.

To change the display type, follow these steps:

On the main menu, press 3 to move the cursor block to Display and

press

Enter.

have an 80-column, color monitor installed, you see:

To change the monitor type, press

various options:

Another menu appears to show the current setting. If you

Enter.

This menu displays listing the

Choose the monitor type according to the combination of monitor and video card that you are using:

l If you have a monochrome monitor, choose Monochrome 80,

regardless of the type of video card to which you connect it.

l If you have an RGB color monitor, use Color/graph 80.

l If you have an enhanced color monitor and an enhanced graphics

video card, select Special options. (If you are using a compatibility mode provided by the video card, you may need to set a DIP switch on the video card, which will override the display setting in CMOS

RAM.)

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l If you have a composite color monitor, such as a color television

with a video input, try selecting Color/graph 80. If resolution is

poor,

run Setup again and select Color/graph 40.

l If you have any other combination of monitor and video card,

consult the documentation supplied with your video card.

Press 1 or t to move to the appropriate option and press Enter.

Now save your settings, and return to the main menu.

Adding an 80287 Coprocessor

Use the Coprocessor option when you add an Intel 80287 numeric coprocessor to your system. You can run software on your computer that makes use of the 80287 coprocessor. The 80287 works together with the 80286, which is the main processor, to process mathematical computations very quickly.

When you install an 80287, use this option to notify the computer so it will use the coprocessor. If you remove the 80287, use this option to delete the coprocessor from the equipment list; this prevents software from trying to use the 80287 commands.

Follow these steps:

On the main menu, press 1 to move the cursor to Coprocessor and

press

Enter.

You see this menu:

*** SAVE SETTINGS ***

Press Enter to display the correct setting. The display changes from 80287 not installed to 80287 installed each time you press Enter.

Display the correct setting, save it, and return to the main menu to change other settings.

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Changing Disk Drives

Use the Mass storage option if you install an additional floppy or hard

disk drive, or if you remove an existing drive and replace it with another

type.

Follow these steps:

On the main menu, press 1 to move the cursor to Mass storage and press

Enter.

Press 1 to move the cursor to the drive you want to change.

To change a floppy disk drive, position the cursor block to Drive A or Drive B and press

You see a menu like this:

** SAVE SETTINGS **

Enter.

You see this menu:

729 KB drive (3.5”)

1.2 MB drive

1.44 MB drive (3.5”)

Press 1 to move the cursor block to the appropriate drive type, and press

Enter

To return to the menu of drives without changing the drive type, press or ESC.

To change a hard disk d to find the correct number for the type of drive you have installed. Then position the cursor block to Drive C or Drive D. Now press + to increase or - to decrease the number shown for the drive you have changed.

When the disk drive data is correct, save the settings, and return to the main menu to change other settings.

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to make your selection.

rive, consult the list of drive types in Appendix B

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Setting the Real-time Clock

If your system has a real-time clock, it automatically keeps track of the time and date. This kind of clock is backed up by a battery so it keeps running even while the computer is turned off.

The MS-DOS TIME and DATE commands, as well as many software packages, display the time and date held in the clock, but they cannot make permanent changes to the time and date settings.

Use the Real-time clock option if you need to change the time and date permanently. For example, you may need to change the clock to accommodate seasonal adjustments, such as daylight saving time. Your computer automatically adjusts for leap years. Note that even though MS-DOS and your applications programs may use a different format, the real-time clock uses a 24-hour time format to store the time.

To set the real-time clock, follow these steps:

On the main menu, press 1 to move the cursor block to Real-time

clock

and press

Enter.

The time and date appear like this:

19:45:55 1@21-1987

To set the time, move the cursor

Date

to Time

and press

Enter. You

I”:“:“”

Enter the time in the exact form shown in the box, using two digits for each part; the program automatically inserts the colons (:).

When the time is correct, press computer beeps, and the time does not change.

Enter.

If you enter an invalid time, the

see:

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To set the date, move the cursor to

Enter the date in the exact form shown in the box, using two digits for the month and the day; the program automatically inserts the dashes.

Date

and press

Enter. You

see:

When the date is correct, press computer beeps, and the date does not change.

When both the time and date are correct, press t to return to the main menu to change other settings.

Enter.

If you enter an invalid date, the

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Chapter 2

Formatting a Hard Disk

This chapter describes how you use diagnostics to check or format a hard disk drive after installation. You can also use the MS-DOS command HDFMTALL. Formatting a hard disk destroys all data on the hard disk, in all partitions, so use this program with extreme care.

When you install a hard disk drive, run the Setup program to identify the hard disk. Then, select the Format hard disk program, option 2 on the OPERATION MENU. This program offers several formatting options. In

most cases, you would use option 1, Conditional format (Normal).

After formatting, you need to partition and format the hard disk for

your operating system(s). You can divide your hard disk into as many as four partitions. If you are using only MS-DOS, you need only one partition. Refer to your MS-DOS manual for details on using FDISK to create a partition and using SELECT to format it for this operating system.

You may need to reformat a hard disk if you have a serious problem with

the drive. However, before completely reformatting the disk, use the Nondestructive surface analysis test to decide if formatting is necessary. If errors occur during this test, backup your disk, and run the Conditional format option followed by Destructive surface analysis. These tests are described in this chapter.

Formatting and Checking Options

When you select option 2, Format hard disk, from the OPERATION

MENU, you see a menu of formatting and checking options:

HARD DISK FORMAT MENU

Conditional format (Normal)

- Unconditional format

Destructive surface analysis

;

4 - Non-destructive surface analysis

0 - Exit Enter selection number:

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The first two options format a hard disk. Normally you use option 1, Conditional format (Normal). This option automatically locates any tracks that are flagged by the manufacturer and marks them so that they are never used. Option 2, Unconditional format, locates any tracks that are flagged as bad, and then allows you to edit the list of bad tracks.

The other two options test a hard disk for problems. Use option 3, Destructive surface analysis, to test the entire disk and update the bad track table. Because this option writes data to the disk as well as reads it, it destroys

all data on any track that produces an error. To check for unflagged bad

tracks without destroying data, use option 4, Non-destructive surface

analysis.

Many hard disk drives are supplied with a list of bad tracks, but without the bad tracks flagged on the disk. Other hard disks are supplied with the bad tracks already flagged. In all cases, run Non-destructive surface analysis before formatting the disk; this routine finds all bad tracks that are not flagged.

If the analysis shows that all the tracks listed as bad are already flagged,

you can then use the Conditional format (Normal) option to format the disk. If the analysis matches the list of bad tracks, but they are not flagged, run the Destructive surface analysis (to flag the tracks) before formatting the disk. If the list provided by the drive manufacturer contains bad tracks that the analysis does not detect, you can use the Unconditional format option to flag those tracks manually.

When you select an option from the HARD DISK FORMAT MENU,

the program determines the number of hard disk drives installed in your computer. If you have more than one drive, then each time you select a test you see this prompt:

Enter drive letter (C/D)?

Press C or

immediately.

and then press

If you have only one hard disk drive, the option you select starts

Enter.

Conditional Format (Normal)

Use this option to format the hard disk. All flagged tracks are marked so

that they are never used.

To start the Conditional format, press 1 and then Enter.

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The program starts to starting from the innermost cylinder of the disk. During the scan, you see the number of the cylinder the program is currently checking. For example, if

scan the disk to find all tracks flagged as bad,

you have a hard disk, the first messages you see are:

Format Hard Disk Scanning for flagged bad tracks... Current cylinder is nnn

When the scan is complete, the program displays information about the

condition of the disk.

For a

hard disk with no bad tracks, the display looks

like this:

Scanning finished.

Count of tracks flagged bad Count of tracks with other errors Count of good tracks

= nnnn

The program then displays a warning about the consequences of pro-

ceeding with formatting:

WARNING! ALL DATA WILL BE DESTROYED IN ALL PARTITIONS OF HARD DISK, NOT JUST IN MS-DOS PARTITION! Do you want to start formatting (Y/N)?

If there are no tracks with other errors, and you are absolutely sure that

you want to format the hard disk, press Y and

The program then asks you once more if you want to continue. You see

this message and prompt:

Enter.

DOUBLE CHECK THAT YOU HAVE BACKUP DISKETTE COPIES OF ALL YOUR FILES. Do you want to exit and check your file copies

(Y/N)?

When you are certain no valuable data will be destroyed, press

If you cancel formatting at either stage, you see these messages:

and

Enter.

Format cancelled.

Press ENTER to return to the menu.

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2-3

Epson EQUITY II+ User Manual

Specifications and Main Features

Frequently Asked Questions

User Manual

Contents

Introduction

How to Use this Manual

Unpacking

Removing the disk drive protector sheet

Choosing a Location

Arranging the Components

The front panel

The back panel

Connecting the Power Cord

Connecting a Video Monitor

Connecting the Keyboard

Connecting a Printer

Parallel interface

Serial interface

The Equity II+ character set

Turning On the Computer

Safety rules

Turning on the power switch

Initial setup procedure

Initial screen display

Inserting and Removing Diskettes

Special Keys on the Equity II+ Keyboard

Selecting Execution Speed

Resetting the Computer

Turning Off the Computer

How Disks Work

Choosing Diskette Drives for the Equity II+

Drive and diskette incompatibilities

Caring for your Disks and Disk Drives

Protecting your Data

Making backup copies

Write-protecting diskettes

Using Two Diskette Drives

Using a Single Diskette Drive

Using a Hard Disk Drive

Removing the Cover

Installing an Option Card

Removing an Option Card

Replacing the Cover

Post-installation Setup

The Computer Fails To Start Up

The Video Display Does Not Appear

The Computer Does Not Respond

Floppy Disk Problems

Hard Disk Problems

Software Problems

Printer Problems

Option Card Problems

Changing a Jumper Setting

Memory Card Jumpers

Main Circuit Board Jumpers

Multi-function Card Jumpers

CPU and Memory

Controllers

Interfaces

Power Supply

Mass Storage

Keyboard

Environmental Requirements

Physical Characteristics (CPU Only)

Power Requirements

Options

Glossary

Index

Diagnostics

Contents

Introduction

Starting the Diagnostics

The Power-on Self Test

The OPERATION MENU

Diagnostics and MS-DOS Commands

Using the Setup Program

Changing the Amount of Memory

Using a Different Type of Display

Adding an 80287 Coprocessor