Epson Y16499100301 User Manual

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EQUlTY™LT

User’s Guide

Y16499100301

IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS

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

2. Follow all warnings and instructions marked on the product.

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

4. Do not use this product near water.

5. Do not place this product on an unstable cart, stand, or table. The product may fall, causing serious damage to the product.

6. Slots and openings in the cabinet and the back or bottom are provided for ventilation; to ensure reliable operation of

the product and to protect it from overheating, these

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

7. This product should be operated from the type of power source indicated on the marking label. If you are not sure of the type of power available, consult your dealer or local power company.

8. This product is equipped with a 3-wire grounding type plug, a plug having a third (grounding) pin. This plug will only fit into a grounding-type power outlet. This is a safety feature. If you are unable to insert the plug into the outlet, contact your electrician to replace your obsolete outlet. Do not defeat the purpose of the grounding-type plug.

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

Y 16499100400

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

into the extension cord do not exceed the extension cord ampere rating. Also, make sure that the total of all products

plugged into the wall outlet does not exceed 15 amperes.

11. Never push objects of any kind into this product through cabinet slots as they may touch dangerous voltage points or

short out parts that could result in a risk of fire or electric shock. Never spill liquid of any kind on the product.

12. Except as specifically explained in the User’s Manual, do not

attempt to service this product yourself. Opening or removing those covers that are marked “Do Not Remove" may expose you to dangerous voltage points or other risks. Refer all servicing in those compartments to service personnel.

13. Unplug this product from the wall outlet and refer servicing

to qualified service personnel under the following conditions: A. When the power cord or plug is damaged or frayed. B. If liquid has been spilled into the product. C. If the product has been exposed to rain or water. D. If the product does not operate normally when the

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

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

damaged.

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

EPSON

Equity™ LT

User’s

Guide

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. 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. Hayes is a registered trademark of Hayes Microcomputer Products Inc. V30 is a trademark of NEC Corporation.

Y16499100301

User’s Guide

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 rules, which are designed to provide 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 20402. Stock No. 0044-000-00450-7.

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

peripheral devices. To further isolate the problem: Disconnect the peripheral devices and their input/output cables one at

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

WARNING

This

equipment has been certified to comply with the limits for a Class B computing device, pursuant to Subpart 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.

User’s Guide

Introduction.

How to Use This Manual

Setting Up Your System

Unpacking.

Connecting the Screen

Connecting the AC Adapter.

Charging the Battery.

Connecting a Printer.

Parallel interface Serial interface

Setting the DIP Switches

Keyboard DIP switches. Back panel DIP switches

Turning On the Computer

Safety rules. Turning on the power Adjusting screen contrast and brightness Initial screen display

Loading MS-DOS

Copying System Diskettes

Copying with two diskette drives. Copying with one diskette drive

10 Running the Setup Program

Setting the real-time clock. Changing the backlight period) Changing the serial port (RS-232C) settings . 1-25 Leaving the Setup program.

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1-1

1-1 1-2 1-5 1-6

1-6 1-7

1-9 1-10 1-11 1-13 1-14 1-14 1-15 1-16 1-17 1-17 1-19 1-19

1-20 1-22 1-23 1-24

1-28

Preparing a Hard Disk for Use.

Creating the MS-DOS Partition Formatting the MS-DOS Partition Copying the Reference Files to the Hard Disk Booting From the Hard Disk Drive Assignments Hard Disk Power Switch

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Contents

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2-1

2-2

2-3

2-5

2-6

Using the Equity LT

Using the AC Adapter Using the Battery LED Indicators Opening and Closing the Screen. Using the Handle Selecting Execution Speed. Resetting the Computer. Caring for the Backlit Screen. Special Keys on the Equity LT Keyboard The Equity LT Character Set Using Disks and Disk Drives

How disks work Choosing diskettes for the Equity LT Caring for disks and disk drives Inserting and removing diskettes. Making backup copies. Write-protecting diskettes Using a single diskette drive

Turning Off the Computer

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3-1 3-1 3-1

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

3-7 3-9 3-9

3-9 3-10 3-11 3-12 3-13 3-13 3-14 3-15

Using MS-DOS With the Equity LT

Starting and Exiting MS-DOS Entering MS-DOS Commands. Storing Data Changing the Default Drive Formatting Diskettes

Formatting with two diskette drives Formatting with one diskette drive.

Copying Data

Using the DISKCOPY command Copying with two 3 f -inch diskette drives.

Copying with one 3 + -inch diskette drive Copying with one 5 $ -inch diskette drive Using the COPY command

Listing the Contents of a Diskette

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4-1

4-2

4-3 4-4 4-5 4-6 4-6 4-7 4-8 4-8 4-8

4-9 4-11 4-12 4-14

Contents

Creating and Using Subdirectories

Creating subdirectories Changing directories Using pathnames

Copying from one subdirectory to another Starting an Application Program. MS-DOS Commands and the Equity LT

Using the backlit screen with memory

resident programs

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Appendixes

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4-14 4-15 4-16 4-17 4-18 4-18

4-19

Options and Maintenance

Connecting a Color Monitor Replacing the Backlit Screen Element. Turning Off the Hard Disk

Turning off the hard disk first Turning off the hard disk later

B Troubleshooting

Error Messages The Computer Fails to Start Up The LCD Screen is Blank. The Monitor Screen is Blank

The Computer Does Not Respond Low Battery Problems Diskette Problems Hard Disk Problems Software Problems Printer Problems

Power-on Diagnostics.

System Device Check. Clock and CMOS RAM Check RAM Check Keyboard Controller and Keyboard Check. Floppy Disk Drive Seek Check Hard Disk Controller and Hard Disk Check

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A-1

A-9 A-9

B-1 B-1 B-1 B-2 B-2 B-3 B-3

B-4 B-5 B-5 B-6

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

C-3 C-4

Con tents

vii

Performing System Diagnostics

Starting System Diagnostics

Selecting a Test. Resuming From an Error System Board Check

Memory Check .................................

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

Video Adapter and Display Check.

Video adapter check Attribute check Character set check 40-column character set check. 320 x 200 graphics mode check 640 x 200 graphics mode check Screen paging check Color video check

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

Run all above checks

Floppy Disk Drives and Controller Check

Formatting a diskette Starting the floppy disk drive check. Sequential seek check Random seek check. Write, read check. Speed check

Run all above checks Parallel Port (Printer Interface) Check Serial Port (RS-232C) Check Alternate Serial Port Check Dot-matrix Printer Check Hard Disk Drive and Controller Check. .

Seek check Write, read check. Error detection and correction check. Read, verify check

Run all above checks Exiting System Diagnostics Error Codes and Messages

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D-1 D-1 D-2 D-3 D-4 D-4 D-5 D-6 D-7 D-8 D-8

D-9

D-9 D-10 D-11 D-12 D-12 D-12 D-13 D-13 D-14 D-15 D-15 D-15 D-16 D-17 D-17 D-17

D-19 D-20

D-21 D-22

D-23

D-24

Contents

Equity LT Specifications

CPU and Memory Controllers Interfaces Power Supply. Mass Storage

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

Environmental Requirements Physical Characteristics Power Requirements.

Options ........................................

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E-1 E-1 E-1 E-1 E-2 E-2 E-2

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

F Glossary

Index

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Tables

1-1

Keyboard DIP switch functions.

1-2

Back panel DIP switch functions

3-1

Special keys.

D-1 Error codes and messages. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . D-24

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F-1

I-1

1-12

1-13

3-8

Contents

Introduction

Your Epson® Equity™ high-performance system you can use just about anywhere: at the office, at home, or on the road. Its rechargeable battery lets you use it in remote locations when you don’t have access to an electrical outlet. With the AC adapter connected, you can use the computer as long as you like, and recharge the battery in the process.

There are two Equity LT models:

l Dual diskette drive system, with two 3 + -inch diskette

drives

l Hard disk drive system, with one 3

and one 20MB (megabyte) internal hard disk drive.

You probably also chose either the standard or backlit model LCD (liquid crystal display) screen. The backlit model features an electroluminescent element that illuminates the background of the screen.

The Equity LT includes 640KB (kilobytes) of internal

memory and comes with built-in serial and parallel interfaces.

These interfaces let you connect an Epson printer or almost

any other peripheral device you choose.

LT portable computer is a compact

-inch diskette drive

If you have a color monitor, you can connect it to the Equity LT to take advantage of the color and the larger display. If you have the hard disk drive system, you can also connect an external 5 t -inch diskette drive to the computer; this enables computer that has a 5 7 -inch drive.

Epson offers a 300/1200 baud auto-dial modem which you can install inside the Equity LT to communicate over the phone lines with other computers. You can also buy a soft case for carrying your computer and a cigarette lighter adapter for an alternate power source. Ask your Epson dealer for information.

you to use 360KB diskettes from a

Introduction

The Equity LT comes with the MS-DOS operating system and the GW-BASIC programming language. If you have used MS-DOS before on another computer, you’ll find that it works the same on the Equity LT. The main commands are explained in this manual and full information, including descriptions of the special utility programs added by Epson, is in your MS-DOS manual.

You can use almost all application programs designed for

the IBM PC, PC XT and PC AT on your Equity LT.

How to Use This Manual

This user’s guide explains how to set up and care for your Equity LT. It also describes how to use your computer and run diagnostics checks. You do not need to read everything in this book; some sections may describe a particular option you do not have. In fact, if you are familiar with computers, you may need to read only Chapters 1 and 3, and Chapter 2 if you have the hard disk model.

Complete the 10 steps in Chapter 1 to set up your

computer and prepare it for use.

If you have the hard disk model, you must follow the

instructions in Chapter 2 to prepare the hard disk before you try to use it. If you have the dual diskette drive model, skip Chapter 2.

Chapter 3 describes general operating procedures and

explains how to use and care for your disks and disk drives.

Chapter 4 provides basic instructions for using MS-DOS

with the Equity LT.

If you need to connect a color monitor or replace the

backlit screen element, see Appendix A.

If you encounter any problems while using your Equity LT,

check the troubleshooting guidelines in Appendix B.

Introduction

Appendix C provides information on the power-on diagnostics in case your computer has trouble powering up. Appendix D outlines the system diagnostic checks you can

perform on your computer. If you are having trouble with any part of the hardware, you may want to run some or all of

these diagnostic checks.

Appendix E presents the Equity LT hardware specifications, and Appendix F is a glossary of computer terms used in this manual. Check the glossary whenever you come across an unfamiliar word.

Introduction

Chapter 1

Setting Up Your System

Setting up your Epson Equity LT portable computer is easy. Just follow the steps in this chapter. They describe how to set up your computer, copy the system diskettes that come with your Equity LT, and run the initial Setup program on your reference diskette.

You’ll find a quick reference guide to these steps on the inside back cover.

Do not turn on the computer, printer, or any other peripherals until the instructions tell you to. Otherwise, you may damage some part of your equipment.

If you have the hard disk model, go on to Chapter 2 when you complete the steps in this chapter.

Unpacking

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

Setting Up Your System

1-1

Besides this manual, you should have the following items:

l The computer l AC adapter and power cord l An MS-DOS operating system diskette (version 3.20),

which also contains the GW-BASIC programming language

l A reference diskette

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

You should also have either the standard or backlit LCD screen or a color monitor to use with your computer.

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

Be sure to keep your packing materials. They provide the best protection for your computer if you need to ship it later.

Connecting the Screen

Follow these steps to connect either the standard or

backlit screen to the computer:

As shown below, push back the arms on the computer so

they rest against the back edge of the computer.

1-2

Setting Up Your System

Use a flat blade screwdriver to lift off the plastic cover the front of each arm, as shown below. Set the covers aside.

There is a plastic insert cap inside each of the arms; lift it out as shown below. You may want to keep these caps in case you need to store or ship your computer later.

Setting Up Your System

1-3

Pick up the screen with both hands and insert it into the arms of the computer.

When the screen is securely seated in both arms, replace the plastic covers on the front of the arms by snapping them back into place. These secure the screen to the computer.

You can pull the screen forward or push it back to adjust

the viewing angle.

1-4

Setting Up Your System

Connecting the AC Adapter

Follow these steps to connect the AC adapter:

Insert the round end of the adapter cable into the jack

marked AC ADAPTER on the back panel of the computer.

Connect one end of the power cord to the adapter’s input socket.

Setting Up Your System

1-5

3. Plug the other end of the power cord into a 120 volt electrical wall outlet.

When the adapter is connected to both the computer and

an electrical outlet, the AC power indicator light turns on. This light is a convenient way to verify that the AC adapter is providing power to the computer.

Be sure to read ‘Using the Adapter” in Chapter 3 for

information on powering the computer with the AC adapter.

Charging the Battery

The Equity LT contains a rechargeable NiCad (nickel

cadmium) battery pack that powers the computer when you are

not using the AC adapter. Before you can use the computer the first time, you must charge the battery.

When you plugged in the AC adapter in step 3, it started charging the battery. This happens whenever the adapter is connected to the computer and plugged into an electrical outlet. Let the battery charge for at least five minutes before you start using the computer for the first time and leave the AC adapter connected while you use the computer.

Be sure to read “Using the Battery” in Chapter 3 for information on using the computer with the battery. It explains how to fully charge the battery; you should do this as soon as possible with your new computer.

Connecting a Printer

The Equity LT has both parallel and serial interfaces.

You can easily connect a printer or plotter that has either type of interface-just follow the instructions below. Of course, Epson offers a full range of printer products; consult your dealer for more information.

1-6

Setting Up Your System

Parallel interface

The Equity LT parallel interface is Centronics-compatible and uses a DB-25S connector. Most Epson printers have parallel interfaces.

To connect a printer to the computer, you need an IBMcompatible 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 computer:

1. Place the printer next to your computer.

Before you connect the printer, be sure the power switches on the computer and printer are off.

3. Connect the appropriate end of the printer cable to the

parallel port on the back panel of the computer, as shown

below. If the plug has retaining screws, tighten them with a

small screwdriver.

Setting Up Your System

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

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

Be sure to turn off DIP switch 1 on the back panel as described below under “Setting the DIP Switches” to let your computer know a printer is connected.

Note

If you plan to use an external 5 f -inch diskette drive with your Equity LT, it must be connected to the parallel port. Therefore, you cannot have both a parallel printer and the diskette drive connected at the same time. Be sure to turn on DIP switch 1 on the back panel to select the external drive. See “Setting the DIP Switches” below.

1-8

Setting Up Your System

Serial interface

If you have a printer or another peripheral with a serial

interface, connect it to the serial (RS-232C) port at the back of

the computer.

The Equity LT uses a DB-9P connector, so be sure you have an IBM 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 given above for connecting a parallel device.

You need to ensure that the serial port is set up to function 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. To make these changes, use the MS-DOS SETMODE program (or the MODE command), described in your MS-DOS manual.

Setting Up Your System

1-9

Note

If you plan to connect a color monitor or an external diskette drive to your computer, do it at this point. For instructions on connecting the monitor, see Appendix A, “Options and Maintenance.” For instructions on connecting an external drive, see the instructions that came with the drive you bought. If your computer already has two internal diskette drives and you connect an external drive, the internal diskette drive on the left side of the computer is disabled.

Be sure to set the computer’s DIP switches correctly if you connect either of these devices to your Equity LT. See ‘Setting the DIP Switches” below.

Setting the DIP Switches

The DIP switches on the Equity LT are set to provide

your computer with information about itself. Each time you turn it on, the computer checks the DIP switch settings to determine the LCD mode in use, whether an external diskette drive is connected, the number of diskette drives in use, and the type of serial connection.

The Equity LT has two sets of DIP switches: one just above the keyboard and one on the back panel of the computer. The set above the keyboard has four switches that control the LCD screen. The set on the back panel has four switches that control the diskette drive and parallel and serial interface configuration.

Your dealer may have set these switches for you. Read this section, however, to be sure the settings match your system setup.

Note

Change the DIP switches only while your computer is off. Otherwise, the new settings may not take effect until you turn the computer off and then on again.

1-10

Setting Up Your System

A DIP switch is either on (up) or off (down). To change a

setting, use a hard, thin object, such as a small screwdriver.

Keyboard DIP switches

To access the DIP switches above the keyboard, you need

to open the cover shown below.

DIP switch cover

Press the raised tab back and lift up at the same time to expose the DIP switches.

DIP switches

Setting Up Your System

The system functions controlled by these switches are listed

in Table l-l and then described below. Table 1-1. Keyboard DIP switch functions

Switch 1, LCD reverse or normal- This switch tells your

computer whether to display text on the screen in normal mode or reverse. In normal mode on the standard model LCD,

characters are dark on a light background. In normal mode on the backlit model LCD, the characters are light on a dark background. In reverse mode on the standard model LCD,

characters are light on a dark background. In reverse mode on

the backlit model LCD, the characters are dark on a light

background. Turn this switch on for normal mode or off for reverse mode.

Switches 2 and 3, LCD mode-These switches control how

the text displays on the screen. If you cannot see text clearly,

try changing these switches to select another mode.

Switch 4, LCD or monitor selection-This switch tells the

computer whether to display text on the LCD screen or on a

monitor screen you have connected to the computer. If you

have connected a color monitor to your computer, turn this

switch off. Otherwise, leave it on.

1-12

Setting Up Your System

Back panel DIP switches

The second set of DIP switches are on the left side of the

back panel.

The system functions controlled by these switches are listed in

Table 1-2 and then described below.

Table

1-2.

Back panel

l7-

Use external diskette drive Use parallel printer External diskette drive is B External diskette drive is A

1 diskette drive 2 diskette drives Serial port is secondary Serial port is primary

DIP

switch functions

I 2 I 3 I 4

I I

OFF

Switch 1, use of parallel port-This switch tells your

computer whether a diskette drive or a parallel printer is connected to the external parallel port. If you connected a parallel printer to this port, turn this switch off. If you connected an external 5 j -inch diskette drive to the port, turn this switch on.

Setting Up Your System

1-13

Switch 2, external drive assignment-If you have connected

an external diskette drive to the computer, this switch determines whether MS-DOS and your application programs access the drive as drive A or drive B. The external drive should be drive B, unless you are using a copy-protected application program that requires the diskette to be loaded in drive A. In this case, you can assign the external drive as A by turning switch 2 off. If you want it to be drive B, turn the switch on.

Switch 3, number of diskette drives-This switch tells the

computer how many diskette drives it has. If you have one diskette drive, turn this switch on. If you have two drives (either two internal or one internal and one external) turn it off.

Switch 4, primary or secondary serial port-This switch tells

the computer whether the built-in serial port is primary or secondary. If you install the optional modem card, which has an external serial port, you can use this DIP switch to select which port is to be primary and which is to be secondary.

If you do not have a modem installed or if you want the built-

in port to be the primary port, turn switch 4 off. If you want the modem port to be the primary port and the built-in port to be secondary, turn switch 4 on,

Turning On the Computer

After you complete steps 1 through 6, you’re ready to turn on the power and start using your Equity LT computer. But before you turn it on, read the following safety rules.

Safety rules

Follow these rules to avoid accidentally damaging your

computer or injuring yourself:

Do not attempt to dismantle any part of the computer. If there is a hardware problem you cannot solve after reading Appendix B on troubleshooting or performing the system diagnostics in Appendix D, consult your Epson dealer.

1-14

Setting Up Your System

Never turn off your computer while a disk drive light is on. This can destroy data stored on disk or make a whole disk unusable.

l Always wait at least five seconds after you turn the power

off before you turn it on again. Turning the power off and on rapidly can damage the computer’s circuitry.

Do not leave a beverage near your computer or any of its components. Spilled liquid can damage the circuitry of your equipment.

Turning on the power

After you have charged the battery (by connecting the AC

adapter to the computer) for at least five minutes, you are

ready to turn on your computer. Be sure to leave the AC

adapter connected while you use the computer for the first time.

Before you turn on the computer, turn on any peripheral devices such as a printer, an external diskette drive, or a color monitor.

If your computer has a hard disk, turn it on with the switch on the back panel. It is best to leave this switch on at all times.

You can turn on your computer with or without a system diskette in the drive. For now, leave the drive empty. To turn on the computer, press the power switch on the back panel.

wer switch

Setting Up Your System

1-15

The power indicator above the keyboard lights up, and after a few seconds, the computer begins to perform an internal self test. This is a diagnostics program the computer runs

whenever you turn it on. The power-on diagnostics self test

checks the RAM (random access memory), keyboard, system

board, and peripherals before the computer begins normal

operation.

For a complete description of the power-on diagnostics, see

Appendix C.

Adjusting screen contrast and brightness

If you cannot see text on the screen clearly, use the switch or switches on the right side of the screen to adjust the screen’s contrast (and brightness). The standard model has only the contrast switch. The backlit model has a contrast switch and a brightness switch, as shown below.

The contrast switch determines how brightly the characters display against the background. To increase the contrast, move the switch up. To decrease it, move the switch down.

1-16

Setting Up Your System

If your screen is the backlit model, you can use the brightness switch to adjust the intensity of the backlighting. To make the backlighting brighter, move the switch up. To decrease the brightness, move the switch down. To preserve the life of the screen (and the computer’s battery), do not make the screen any brighter than you need to see the text clearly.

Initial screen display

After the computer completes its self test, a message tells you how much RAM is available:

640 KB 0K Then the screen displays the following message:

Non-System disk or disk error

Replace and strike any key when ready

This tells you the computer can now load an operating system from a diskette in the right drive, drive A, The Equity LT

needs a disk operating system (DOS) to function. It comes with

MS-DOS version 3.20. If you want to use another operating

system, consult your dealer.

Chapter 4 provides the basic information you need to use MS-DOS; so be sure to read that chapter before you start using the operating system with your Equity LT. But for now, follow the instructions below to load MS-DOS and make working copies of your MS-DOS and reference diskettes.

Loading MS-DOS

Follow these steps to load MS-DOS:

Hold the MS-DOS diskette with the label facing up and

the arrow on the left side of the diskette pointing into

drive A on the right side of the computer, as shown in the

following illustration.

Setting Up Your System

1-17

Insert the diskette into the drive until it clicks into place. When the diskette is all the way in, the release button pops out. (For more instructions, see “Inserting and removing diskettes” in Chapter 3.)

3. Press any key. The computer automatically loads the operating system. The screen displays the system title and version number and then a date prompt similar to this:

Current date is Sat 10-24-87

Enter new date (mm-dd-yy)

You do not need to enter the date because you will soon be entering the correct date and time when you run the Setup program below. Once you enter the correct date and time, the Equity LT retains them unless you change them again in the Setup program.

Press Enter to accept the displayed date. The screen then displays the time:

Current time is 09:10:33

Enter

5. Press Enter to accept the displayed time.

new

time:

1-18

Setting Up Your System

The screen displays the MS-DOS version number and copyright information, and then the MS-DOS command prompt:

A> This means the operating system is ready for you to enter a

command. The command prompt identifies the current operating drive: A, B, or C. It displays on the screen whenever you load MS-DOS, complete an MS-DOS command, or exit an

application program.

Copying System Diskettes

Follow the steps below to make copies of your two

system diskettes. It is very important that you use only the copies (usually called "working" copies) for daily use and store

the originals in a safe place.

The procedure for copying a diskette depends on whether your computer is the dual diskette drive model or the hard disk model, which has only one 3 r -inch diskette drive. Follow the

procedure for your model, described below. You will need two blank, 3 + -inch, 720KB, double-sided diskettes.

When you finish making the copies, be sure to put the

originals away.

Copying with two diskette drives

If it is not already in the drive, insert your MS-DOS system

diskette in drive A (and press any key, if necessary). The

A> prompt should be on the screen.

Insert a blank 3 t -inch 720KB diskette in drive B, on the

left side of the computer.

Setting Up Your System

1-19

3. Type:

DISKCOPY A: B:

and press Enter. The screen displays these prompts:

Insert Insert

SOURCE TARGET

diskette in drive A: diskette in drive B:

Press any key when ready . . .

4. Drive A already contains the diskette you want to copy (the source) and drive B contains the blank diskette (the target), so just press any key. If the diskette in drive B is not formatted, the DISKCOPY program formats it. Then the program begins copying the data from drive A to the formatted diskette in drive B.

5. When the copy is complete, the screen displays this prompt:

Copy

another diskette (Y/N)?

Press Y so you can make a copy of the reference diskette. Remove the diskettes from drives A and B (press the release button on each drive to remove the diskette). Then insert the reference diskette in drive A and another blank diskette in drive B. Follow the prompts on the screen to copy the reference diskette.

When you finish and the Copy another diskette (Y/N)? prompt displays, press N to return to the MS-DOS A> prompt.

Copying with one diskette drive

If it is not already in the drive, insert your MS-DOS system diskette in drive A (and press any key, if necessary). The A> prompt should be on the screen.

2. Type:

DISKCOPY

and press Enter. The screen displays the following prompts:

1-20

Setting Up Your System

Insert SOURCE diskette in drive A:

Press any key when ready . . .

3. Drive A already contains the diskette you want to copy (the source), so just press any key. The DISKCOPY program copies the contents of the diskette to the computer’s memory.

Note

Because the 720KB MS-DOS diskette holds more data than can fit in the computer’s 640KB of memory, the computer needs to copy the contents of the diskette in two passes. The screen prompts you when to insert and remove the diskettes.

Then the screen displays these prompts:

Insert TARGET diskette in drive A: Press any key when ready . . .

4. Remove the MS-DOS system diskette from drive A (press the release button to release the diskette) and insert the blank diskette (the target) in the drive. Then press any key.

If the diskette in drive A is not formatted, the DISKCOPY program formats it. Then the program begins copying the data from the computer’s memory to the formatted diskette. When it has copied all the files from memory, DISKCOPY displays these prompts on the screen:

Insert SOURCE diskette in drive A:

Press any key when ready . . .

Remove the copy diskette from the drive and insert the original MS-DOS diskette. Press any key.

The program copies the rest of the files from the original diskette to the computer’s memory and then displays these prompts on the screen:

Insert TARGET diskette in drive A: Press any key when ready . . .

Setting Up Your System

1-21

Remove the MS-DOS system diskette from drive A and insert the copy diskette in the drive. Then press any key.

The program copies the remaining files from the computer’s

memory to the copy diskette. When the copy is complete, you see this prompt:

Copy

another diskette (Y/N)?

Press Y so you can make a copy of the reference diskette. Follow the instructions above and the prompts on the screen to copy the reference diskette. When you finish and

the Copy another diskette (Y/N)? prompt appears, press N

to return to the MS-DOS A> prompt.

Running the Setup Program

used, you need to run the Setup program on the reference diskette to give the computer information about the way it is set up. This is a simple procedure that you must do at least once. You may need to do it again later if you want to change something.

The Setup program lets you set (or change) the following:

l Real-time clock’s date or time l Backlight period for the backlit model screen

Default settings for the serial (RS-232C) port or ports.

The information you define with the Setup program is stored in the CMOS RAM, which is permanent because it is backed up by a battery. Whenever you turn on the computer,

it searches the CMOS RAM for the correct installation information. If the computer discovers a difference between the information in CMOS RAM and your computer, it prompts you to run the Setup program.

If this is the first time your Equity LT has been

To start the Setup program, insert the working copy of

your reference diskette in drive A. At the A> prompt, type:

1-22

setup

Setting Up Your System

and press Enter. The Setup menu displays on the screen:

Exit

Real-time clock

Backlight period

Primary serial port

Secondary serial port

select function, Enter exit program

Setting the real-time clock

Your computer automatically keeps track of the time and date using a real-time clock. Because the clock is backed up by a separate battery, it keeps track of the time and date even

while the computer is turned off.

The MS-DOS TIME and DATE commands, as well as many application programs, 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 daylight saving time, for example. Your computer automatically adjusts for leap years. Note that even though MS-DOS and your application 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:

1. On the main menu, press 1 to move the cursor block to

Real-time clock and press Enter. You see the time and

date displayed like this:

17:45:55 12-31-1987

To set the time, press Enter (while the cursor block is on

Time). You see the following:

hh:mm:ss

Time Date

Setting Up Your System

1-23

Enter the time in the exact form shown in the box, using two digits for each part; the program automatically inserts the colons (:). For example, to set the time for 3:15 pm, enter the following:

151500

When the time is correct, press Enter. If you enter an invalid time (a number greater than 23 for the hours or 59 for the minutes or seconds), the time does not change.

3. To set the date, press 1 to move the cursor block to Date

and press Enter. You see the following:

mm-dd-yyyy

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

When the date is correct, press Enter. If you enter an invalid date (such as a number greater than 12 for the month), the computer beeps, and the date does not change.

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

Changing the backlight period

The backlight period is the length of time a backlit screen

remains illuminated before the computer turns it off automatically. Although this power-saver feature is designed mainly for the backlit model screen, follow these instructions if you have the standard model to select no time limit. This makes your computer run more efficiently.

The backlit screen draws power from the battery to stay

illuminated, and should last a long time. However, it gradually

loses some of its brightness, and may eventually need to be

replaced.

To help conserve the battery’s charge and extend the life of

the screen, the computer turns the backlighting off automatically if you have not pressed a key for a certain length

1-24

Setting Up Your System

of time. The default time period is two minutes. You can change it to a time between one-half minute to five minutes, in half-minute increments. If you do not want the backlighting to be turned off at all, select no time limit so it remains on unless you turn off the computer.

After the backlighting goes off, it remains off until you press any key on the keyboard. As soon as you press a key, the backlighting comes back on.

To change the backlight period, follow these steps:

1. Press 1 to select Backlight period and press Enter. You see:

2.0 Minutes * SAVE A SETTING *

To increase the time period, press +. To decrease the time period, press -. The time increases and decreases in halfminute increments: .5, 1.0, 1.5, etc. If you reach 5.0 and press +, the screen displays the following:

No time limit

This means that the computer will not turn the backlighting off at all.

After you select the time period you want, press 1 to move the cursor block to * SAVE A SETTING * and press

Enter to return to the Setup menu.

Changing the serial port (RS-232C) settings

Use the Primary serial port and Secondary serial port options to change the default parameters for the serial port(s) in your computer. If you are not using the serial port at all, you don’t need to do anything with this part of the Setup

program, and you can go on to “Leaving the Setup program” below.

Setting Up Your System

1-25

If you are using only the built-in serial port, you need to be concerned only with the primary serial port-and only then if you want to change the default parameters for communication.

For example, if you have a serial printer attached to the

built-in serial port, you can use the Primary serial port option

to match the computer’s parameters to the printer’s switch settings so that you do not need to use the MS-DOS MODE command to set up the serial port each time you want to use it.

The primary serial port is the one designated in MS-DOS

as COM1:-normally the built-in serial port. The secondary serial port is the one you address as COM2:-normally the serial port on the optional modem card. If your computer has a modem card installed and you turn on DIP switch 4 on the back panel so the built-in port is secondary, COM1: and COM2: are reversed. Consider this if you alter the serial port settings in the following instructions.

The procedure for changing the serial port settings is

identical for the primary and secondary serial ports. To alter the primary serial port parameters, press serial port and press Enter. To alter the secondary serial port parameters, press J twice to select Secondary serial port.

to select Primary

You see a menu of the serial parameters with their default

values:

Baud rate Parity Data length

Stop bits

* * * SAVE SETTINGS * * *

9600 bps None

8 bits

1 bit(s)

Note

Check the manual that came with the serial device you are using to determine which settings to use for these parameters.

1-26

Setting Up Your System

The cursor block is on the Baud rate option. To change

the speed of communication, press Enter. The screen displays the following:

110 bps 150 bps

300 bps 600 bps

1200 bps

2400 bps 4800 bps

9600 bps

19200 bps

38400 bps

Use 1 and t to move the cursor block to the desired

communication speed and press Enter.

To set the type of parity check, press 1 to select Parity

and press Enter. The screen displays the following:

None Odd Even

Use the arrow keys to move the cursor block to the correct type of parity check and press Enter.

To change the data length, move the cursor block to

Data length and press Enter. The number changes to either 7

or 8, whichever was not displayed before. Press Enter again if you want to reselect the previous number.

To change the number of stop bits, move the cursor block

to Stop bits and press Enter. The number changes to either 1

or 2, whichever was not displayed before. To reselect the

previous number, press Enter again.

When you finish changing the serial port settings, move the

cursor block to the * * * SAVE SETTINGS * * * option and press Enter.

Setting Up Your System

1-27

Leaving the Setup program

When you finish using the Setup program, press t until the

cursor block is on Exit and press Enter. The screen displays a list of the current settings you just made. Check the list to make sure all the information is correct.

Below the list you see this menu:

Change settings

Exit

without saving

* * EXIT AND SAVE * *

If any setting is incorrect, press Enter. The main Setup menu

is displayed again, and you can correct the setting.

If you did not make any changes or if you want to cancel

the changes you made, press 1 to select Exit without saving, and press Enter.

When the settings are correct, press 1 to select * * EXIT

AND SAVE * *, and press Enter. At this point, the program

resets the computer using the new configuration. If the reference diskette is in drive A, remove it and insert the MS-DOS diskette in the drive.

If the computer displays a Setup error message during the

power-on self test, run Setup again and check all your settings.

Note

If you have the hard disk model Equity LT, go on to Chapter 2 and complete all the procedures there to prepare your hard disk for use. If you do not have a hard disk, go on to Chapter 3.

1-28

Setting Up Your System

Chapter 2

Preparing a Hard Disk for Use

If you have the hard disk model Equity LT, follow the

instructions in this chapter to prepare it before using it for the

first time.

WARNING

Do not perform any of these procedures if your hard disk has already been prepared for use or has data stored on it; otherwise, you will erase all the data on the hard disk. These instructions apply only to a new hard disk.

The hard disk inside the Equity LT has a capacity of 20 megabytes-about 20 million characters. This is equivalent to approximately 30 720KB diskettes. Using a hard disk reduces the number of diskettes you need and eliminates much of the disk-swapping you do when you use diskettes. You can do almost all of your work on the hard disk and copy your files to diskettes as needed (to make backups, for example).

Although the hard disk is very reliable, it is essential to back up all your hard disk files on diskettes in case you lose some data accidentally. Use the MS-DOS BACKUP program (described in your MS-DOS manual) to back up your hard disk files.

Even though the hard disk has a lot of storage space, it is best to keep only those files you use regularly on the hard disk. Store your other files on diskettes.

Before you can use the hard disk, you must do the following things to prepare it:

Use the FDISK program to partition the hard disk to run

the MS-DOS operating system.

Use the SELECT program to format the MS-DOS partition

and to copy the MS-DOS utility programs to the hard disk.

Preparing a Hard Disk for Use

2-1

Then you can use the COPY command to copy files from

the reference diskette to the hard disk.

All of these procedures are described in this chapter.

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.

In the following procedures you will be using the working copies of your MS-DOS system diskette and reference diskette, and entering MS-DOS commands. If you are new to computers and MS-DOS, this may be the first time you have used an operating system. But the steps are simple and you should not have any problems. If you do have any questions, see Chapter 4 for basic information about using MS-DOS or see your MS-DOS manual for complete information on the operating system.

Creating the MS-DOS Partition

You need to partition the hard disk so it can run the

MS-DOS operating system. Follow the steps below to create

one partition on your hard disk for MS-DOS.

Turn on the hard disk (if it is not on already).

Insert the working copy of your MS-DOS system diskette

in drive A.

Turn on the computer (if it is not on already).

4. At the A> prompt, type FDISK and press Enter. The

screen displays the FDISK Options menu.

5. Press 1 to select the Create DOS Partition option and press

Enter. The screen displays the following prompt:

Do you wish to use the entire fixed

disk for DOS (Y/N). . . . . . . . . . . . . . ?[Y]

2-2

Preparing a Hard Disk for Use

Press Y to use the entire hard disk for MS-DOS and press

Enter. The screen displays the following message and

prompt:

System will now restart

Insert DOS diskette in drive A: Press any key when ready . . .

Press any key to restart the system (the MS-DOS diskette is already in drive A). Your computer begins reloading MS-DOS. After the preliminary copyright information displays on the screen, the date prompt displays.

Press Enter twice to accept the date and time shown. The system now recognizes the MS-DOS partition and the

A > prompt redisplays.

Formatting the MS-DOS Partition

Once you have created the MS-DOS partition, you must

format it for MS-DOS. You use the SELECT command, which

automatically does the following:

Formats the MS-DOS partition

l Labels the root directory

Copies the MS-DOS system files to the hard disk. After you have done this, MS-DOS boots automatically

from the hard disk every time you turn on or reset your

computer. (See Chapter 3 for a complete description of the reset function.)

Follow these steps to format the MS-DOS partition:

Insert the working copy of your MS-DOS system diskette in drive A (if it is not there already).

At the A> prompt, type the following and press Enter:

SELECT C: 001 US

Preparing a Hard Disk for Use

2-3

Note

001 and US are the country code and keyboard code, respectively, for the United States. If you want to substitute other codes, see your MS-DOS manual.

The screen displays this message and prompt:

SELECT

is used to install DOS the first time. SELECT erases everything on the specified target and then installs DOS. Do you want to continue (Y/N)?

Press Y. Formatting does not begin immediately. The screen

displays the following:

WARNING, ALL DATA ON NON-REMOVABLE DISK DRIVE C: WILL BE LOST!

Proceed with Format (Y/N)?

Press Y to format the DOS partition, erasing any stored files. Then press Enter. MS-DOS begins formatting your hard disk’s DOS partition. The screen continuously displays the changing head and cylinder numbers.

Besides formatting the hard disk partition, MS-DOS also copies the operating system files to the hard disk.

When the procedure is complete, the screen displays the following:

Format complete System transferred Volume label (11 characters, ENTER for none)

It is a good idea to enter a name (label) for the hard disk to protect it from being accidentally formatted later. If you want to name the hard disk, type up to 11 characters and press Enter. If you do not want to name it, just press

Enter.

The screen first displays disk space information and then displays the following message:

Reading source files(s). . .

2-4

Preparing a Hard Disk for Use

When all the files are copied, the A> prompt redisplays.

The SELECT procedure is complete.

Note

The SELECT procedure described above copies all the files from your system diskette to the root directory of drive C. You may, however, want to store these files in separate subdirectories so they are easier to find. For information on subdirectories, see Chapter 4 of this manual and your MS-DOS manual.

Copying the Reference Files to the Hard Disk

Follow the instructions below to copy the files on your

reference diskette to the hard disk. If you want to store them

in a separate subdirectory, see Chapter 4 for instructions.

Remove the MS-DOS diskette from drive A and insert the reference diskette in the drive.

You should still be logged on to drive A. If not, type A:

and press Enter.

At the A> prompt, type the following and press Enter:

COPY *.* C:

MS-DOS copies all the files from the diskette to your hard disk. The file names appear on the screen as they are copied.

4. After copying, remove the reference diskette. Store all your diskettes in a safe place.

Booting From the Hard Disk

Now you can boot your system (load MS-DOS) from drive

C, your hard disk. Be sure there is no diskette in drive A; if a system diskette is in the drive, MS-DOS boots from drive A.

Preparing a Hard Disk for Use

2-5

Turn off the computer, wait at least five seconds, and then

turn it back on. After the computer completes the power-on self test, the screen displays the date prompt. Press Enter twice to accept the date and time shown.

The C> prompt displays, indicating that the system has

successfully loaded from your hard disk.

From now on, each time you turn on or reset your

computer, it automatically loads MS-DOS from the hard disk.

Just make sure drive A is empty.

Drive Assignments

MS-DOS always recognizes the hard disk as drive C.

The diskette drive on the right side of the computer is

drive A. If you have connected an external diskette drive to your Equity LT, MS-DOS identifies it as drive B, unless you have turned off DIP switch 2 on the back panel to make the external drive A.

Hard Disk Power Switch

The hard disk in your Equity LT has its own power switch. Leave this switch on at all times unless you will be using the computer without the AC adapter; in this case you may want to turn off the hard disk when you are not using it to conserve the battery’s charge. If so, see “Turning Off the Hard Disk” in

Appendix A.

When you turn off the computer, it automatically turns off

the hard disk even though the switch is on.

2-6

Preparing a Hard Disk for Use

Chapter 3

Using the Equity LT

This chapter covers some basic procedures for using your

Equity LT computer.

Using the AC Adapter

The Equity LT can be powered by either its internal

battery pack or the AC adapter. When you connect the AC

adapter to the computer and to an electrical outlet, the power to the computer is supplied by the outlet. Use the AC adapter whenever you have access to an electrical outlet to conserve the internal battery’s charge. It recharges the battery whenever

it is connected to the computer.

You can connect or disconnect the AC adapter while you

are using the computer without interrupting any operation. For example, if you are not using the adapter and the low battery

light starts flashing (see below), connect the AC adapter as

soon as possible to avoid losing data.

When the adapter is connected to both the computer and an electrical outlet, the AC indicator light (on top of the computer, toward the back), is illuminated.

Because the adapter can operate at 100 to 120 and 200 to 240 volts, you can use your Equity LT in other countries (with the appropriate adapter plug).

Use the adapter to recharge the battery as described in the next section.

Using the Battery

The battery pack inside the Equity LT contains eight NiCad (nickel cadmium) batteries that power the computer when the AC adapter is not connected. The battery is rechargeable and you should never have to replace it.

Using the Equity LT

3-1

You need to recharge the battery at these times:

Before you use the computer for the first time

l If the battery has not been used for a long time l If the low battery indicator light starts flashing (see “LED

Indicators” below).

After the low battery light starts to flash, you have a maximum of 15 minutes before the power is completely gone. If you continue using the computer without connecting the

adapter, power runs out and you lose data.

To recharge the battery, connect the AC adapter to the computer and to an electrical outlet. You can charge the battery whether the computer is on or off. For the maximum

charge, leave it connected for 12 hours. The battery pack cannot be overcharged; so don’t worry if you leave it

connected for more than 12 hours.

Remember the following when you are charging the battery:

Use only the AC adapter that comes with the Equity LT. Using a different one can damage the computer.

l It is best to charge the battery for at least five hours at a

time. If you charge the battery for only short periods, it tends to run low sooner.

The length of time the battery can provide power after being charged depends on how you are using the computer. A fully-charged battery provides approximately five to seven hours of use for simple operations. If you are using a hard disk, the backlit screen, or an external diskette drive, however, the time is shorter.

3-2

Using the Equity LT

LED Indicators

Above the keyboard on the right side are seven LED (light emitting diode) indicators that provide information about the computer’s operation.

The POWER LED is on whenever the computer is on. The color of the light indicates the current execution speed. (See “Selecting Execution Speed” below.)

The LOW BAT LED flashes when the battery is low. (See “Using the Battery” above.)

The two DRIVE LEDs, labeled L (left) and R (right),

indicate which of the drives is being accessed, if any. If you have a hard disk, the LED labeled L is for the hard disk.

When one of these lights is on, the computer is writing to or reading from the disk in that drive. Never turn off the computer or remove a diskette from the drive if the light is on. If you connected an external diskette drive, it should have its own LED.

The CAPS, NUM, and SCROLL LEDs indicate whether

the Caps Lock, Num Lock, and Scroll Lock key functions are enabled. (See “Special Keys on the Equity LT Keyboard” below.)

Using the Equity LT

3-3

Opening and Closing the Screen

When you are not using the computer or you want to move it, turn it off and then close the screen, as shown below, so it locks into the bottom part of the computer.

When you want to open the screen, slide the latch release button on either side (shown below) toward you. Then lift the screen back.

3-4

Using the Equity LT

Using the Handle

The Equity LT has a convenient carrying handle. To use the handle, pull it out from the bottom of the computer as shown below.

Be sure the screen is closed whenever you carry the

computer by its handle.

Selecting Execution Speed

The Equity LT can operate at two execution speeds: 4.77 MHz or 10 MHz. At the higher speed, the computer performs all tasks faster. Leave the speed at 10 MHz unless your application program must be run at the slower speed.

To change the speed, move the CPU SPEED switch above the keyboard.

RESET CPU SPEED

Using the Equity LT

3-5

When the computer is running at 4.77 MHz, the power

LED is orange. At 10 MHz, the light is green.

Resetting the Computer

You can reset the computer to reload the operating system

or to restart a program. You may also need to reset if an error occurs and the computer does not respond to anything you type. Resetting, however, erases any data in the computer’s temporary memory (RAM) that you have not stored; so be careful when you reset your computer.

In MS-DOS, you can hold down Ctrl and press C to stop

a program’s operation and return to the MS-DOS command

prompt. If an error occurs, try this method before you reset the

computer.

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.

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 Ctrl and Alt and

press the Del 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 in drive A or on the hard disk.) If this does not correct the problem, try the second method.

Use a pencil or a similar type of thin pointed object to press the RESET button above the keyboard. This method works even when the keyboard does not respond to your commands. If this does not correct the problem, try the third method.

3-6

Using the Equity LT

Turn off any peripheral devices and then turn off the

Equity LT. Wait five seconds and then switch the power

back on.

Caring for the Backlit Screen

If you have the backlit model of the LCD screen, you need

to be aware of a few things.

The electroluminescent element in the screen that provides the backlighting draws more power from the battery than the standard screen. Eventually, the screen loses some of its brightness and may need to be replaced.

To preserve the life of the screen as well as the computer’s battery, the computer turns the backlighting off automatically if you have not touched the keyboard for a certain length of time. The default time is two minutes. When you ran the Setup program in Chapter 1, you may have changed this backlight period. (For instructions see “Changing the backlight

period” in Chapter 1.)

The computer also turns the screen off if you connect a color monitor to the computer or turn off DIP switch 4 above the keyboard.

Another way to extend the life of the screen is to keep it

only as bright as you need to see the screen clearly. Use the brightness switch on the right side of the screen to adjust the

brightness.

If you notice the screen losing its brightness, you may need

to replace the element inside the screen. Contact your dealer for a new element and then follow the instructions in Appendix A to install it. If you do not want to replace it yourself, ask your dealer to do it for you.

Special Keys on the Equity LT Keyboard

Certain keys on your keyboard serve special functions

when your computer is running application programs. Table 3-1 describes the special keys.

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Table 3-1. Special keys

Key

-n

Caps Lock

Shift

Ctrl

Alt

Enter Ins

Del Home, End,

‘;“Uk

Pgpn,

Num Lock

Esc F1 - F10 Prtsc Sys Req

Scroll Lock Break

Purpose Moves the cursor one tab to the right in normal

mode and one tab to the left in Shift mode.

Changes the letter keys from lower- to uppercase; changes back to lowercase when pressed again. The numeric/symbol keys on the top row of the keyboard are not affected.

Produces uppercase characters or the top symbols on the keys when used with the main character keys. Produces lowercase characters when Caps Lock is on.

Works with other keys to perform special (control) functions, such as editing operations in MS-DOS and GW-BASIC.

Works with other keys to enter alternate character codes.

Moves the cursor back one space, deleting the character to the left.

Ends a line of keyboard input or executes a command.

Turns the insert function on and off.

Deletes the character at the cursor.

Within application programs, control cursor location.

Changes the function of the cursor/numeric keys from cursor positioning to numeric. For example, when the Num Lock function is on and you press the 1 key, you get the number 2. Press Num Lock again to change back to normal cursor functions.

Depending on the application program, may cancel

the current command line or operation.

Perform special functions within application programs.

Prints on a printer the text currently displayed on

the screen. Generates the System Request function.

In some applications, controls scrolling. In some applications, terminates the current

operation.

The Num Lock, Caps Lock, and Scroll Lock keys work

as toggles; press them once to turn on the function and again to turn it off. When the function is enabled, the corresponding LED above the keyboard is on; when the function is disabled, the light is off.

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Using the Equity LT

The Equity LT Character Set

The Equity LT uses an extended character set that assigns graphics and international characters to some ASCII codes. In some cases, if you try to print these characters on a standard

printer, you get italic characters instead. Most Epson printers

support this character set used by IBM and compatible computers (the character set the Equity LT uses) as a standard feature, and you can adapt others. Also, 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.

Using Disks and Disk Drives

The disk drives in your computer allow you to store data on disk, and to retrieve and use stored data. All Equity LT systems have at least one 720KB diskette drive; you also have either a second diskette drive or a hard disk drive in your system. This section explains how disks work and tells you how to do the following:

l Choose diskettes l Care for your disks and disk drives

l Insert and remove diskettes l Make backup copies l Write-protect your diskettes l Use a single diskette drive.

It also explains how the diskette drives are assigned in the

different system configurations.

How disks work

The diskettes you insert in your computer’s diskette drives are round pieces of flexible plastic coated with magnetic material and enclosed in protective plastic cases. Like a record, a diskette has circular tracks on both sides. The computer

Using the Equity LT

3-9

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 metal plate above the access area moves aside to expose the diskette

surface to the read/write head. The read/write head accesses this part of the diskette when you store, retrieve, and delete data.

Unlike a diskette, 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 diskette, 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.

Choosing diskettes for the Equity LT

Be sure to buy high-quality diskettes to use in your Equity LT. Choose 3 r -inch diskettes that are 720KB (kilobytes), soft-sectored, double-sided, 135 TPI (tracks per inch). Each diskette can hold 720KB of data, or about 300 pages of text. (One kilobyte equals 1024 bytes.)

If you have an external 5 + -inch diskette drive, use 5 $ -inch, 360KB, double-sided, double-density, soft-sectored, 48 TPI diskettes in this drive. These diskettes can hold 360KB of data, the equivalent of about 150 pages of text. They are compatible with those the IBM PC uses, so you can use diskettes prepared by one computer on the other.

Because of their size difference, you cannot use a 3 + -inch diskette in a 5 + -inch drive or vice versa. However, if you have both types of drives, (720KB and 360KB), you can copy individual files from one drive to the other with the COPY command. See Chapter 4 in this manual or your MS-DOS manual for instructions on the COPY command.

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Using the Equity LT

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. See Chapter 4 or your MS-DOS manual for instructions on how to format diskettes.

Caring for disks and disk drives

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

Do not remove a diskette, turn off the computer, or turn

off an external diskette drive 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. Keep disks away from dust and dirt. Small particles of dust

or dirt can scratch the magnetic surface and 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 room temperature 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.

Do not expose the diskette’s surface by sliding the metal plate and never touch a diskette’s magnetic surface. The oils on your fingertips can damage it.

Do not place anything on top of your diskettes and make

sure they do not get bent.

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3-11

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

Store diskettes properly in their plastic cases. If your computer has a hard disk, take these additional

precautions:

l Never turn off the power to the computer or the hard disk

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.

Never attempt to open the hard disk unit. The disk itself is enclosed in an air-tight container to protect it from dust.

Do not turn off the hard disk drive unless you are not using the AC adapter and you want to conserve the computer battery’s charge. See “Turning Off the Hard Disk” in Appendix A.

Inserting and removing diskettes

To insert a diskette into a disk drive, hold it with the label facing up and the arrow on the left side pointing into the computer as shown below.

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Using the Equity LT

Slide the diskette into the drive until it clicks into place.

To remove a diskette, press the release button to release the diskette. When it pops out of the drive, pull out the diskette and store it properly, such as in a special diskette container.

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.

Making backup copies

Make copies of all your data and system diskettes. Copy all diskettes that contain programs, as you did the master system

diskettes that come with the Equity LT, 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.

Chapter 1 describes how to make a backup copy of your MS-DOS and reference diskettes. For general instructions on copying diskettes, see Chapter 4.

If you have a hard disk, keep backup copies of all your program files on diskettes and regularly copy important data files to diskettes as well. You can use the MS-DOS BACKUP command to copy all or part of the files on the hard disk. For more information, see 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.

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The write-protect device is a small switch on the lower-right corner on the back, shown in the figure below. To writeprotect the diskette, slide the switch down toward the edge of the diskette so there is a hole where the switch used to be.

write-protect switch

To remove the write-protection, move the switch up toward

the center of the diskette so the hole is covered.

Using a single diskette drive

An operating system expects the computer to have at least

two physical diskette drives, and it displays prompts and messages accordingly. If your system has only one diskette drive, MS-DOS 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.

You may swap diskettes this way often, and you don’t

want 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 should also write-protect your source diskette so you don’t accidentally copy on to it. For more information on using one diskette drive with MS-DOS, see Chapter 4.

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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 any peripherals (such as a printer, a monitor, or an external diskette drive), and then turn off the computer. If you have the hard disk system, do not turn off the hard disk.

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Chapter 4

Using MS-DOS With the Equity LT

Your Equity LT comes with version 3.2 of MS-DOS, the disk operating system by Microsoft? In this chapter, you’ll learn some of the basic procedures for using MS-DOS with your computer.

MS-DOS manages the routine work of your system, such as

keeping the computer’s memory organized, controlling screen

displays, accepting keyboard input, and directing external communication. Your software cannot communicate with the computer’s hardware without instructions from the operating

system. The operating system controls system input and output

and the operation of all disk drives.

Before you can use an MS-DOS application program, MS-DOS must be running in your computer’s memory. This means that you must first load MS-DOS so that the operating system can accept your instructions and make the right connections.

To communicate with the operating system, you need to enter MS-DOS commands. How much you need to know

about the MS-DOS commands depends on how you plan to use your Equity LT. If you plan to use it only for running application programs, you’ll use very few MS-DOS commands. If you plan to use advanced features or create your own programs, you’ll want to know as much as possible about MS-DOS.

If you plan to use your computer primarily for running

application programs, you’ll find that this chapter introduces you to the MS-DOS features you’ll use the most. For more indepth information about MS-DOS, see your MS-DOS manual.

The basic procedures you must know include how to do

the following:

l Start and exit MS-DOS

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4-1

l Enter an MS-DOS command l Store data

Change the default drive

Format a diskette for storing data

Copy an entire diskette or selected files

List the contents of a diskette

l Create and use subdirectories

Start an application program.

Starting and Exiting MS-DOS

Remember, before you can run an MS-DOS application program, MS-DOS itself must be running in memory. Follow these steps to load MS-DOS:

Turn on any peripherals, such as the printer or an external

diskette drive.

If your system has a hard disk, be sure its power switch is

turned on.

If your system does not have a hard disk, insert the

working copy of your MS-DOS system diskette into drive

A, on the right side of the computer.

4. Turn on your computer.

Note

If your system has a hard disk that is set to boot MS-DOS

automatically, be sure that no diskette is in drive A.

MS-DOS loads automatically from the hard disk when you

turn on the computer. See Chapter 2 for more information on the hard disk.

Press Enter twice to accept the date and time shown.

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Now you see the MS-DOS command prompt, which tells you that MS-DOS is loaded and indicates the current drive followed by a greater-than symbol:

A> If MS-DOS loads from the hard disk, the screen displays:

c> This prompt tells you that you can now enter commands to

instruct MS-DOS to perform tasks and run application programs.

Before you turn off the computer, be sure you are at the

A > or C> prompt. Then it is safe to remove your diskettes, turn off any peripherals, and then turn off the computer.

Entering MS-DOS Commands

You can enter an MS-DOS command whenever you see the MS-DOS command prompt. This means that you type the command name and any necessary parameters, and then press

Enter to execute the command. Parameters include items that

identify the data to be processed and switches that alter the

effects of a command.

You can enter command names and parameters in either

uppercase or lowercase letters. You must, however, separate command names and parameters with delimiters; most commands require spaces or commas as delimiters.

If you make a mistake when typing a command and you

notice it before pressing Enter, you can do one of two things:

l Use the backspace key to back up and correct the error l Press ESC to cancel the command line.

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4-3

If you press Enter when a command line has an error in it,

you see this message:

Bad command or file name

Then MS-DOS re-displays the command prompt so you can try again. Just type the correct command line and press Enter.

Storing Data

All your work and programs are stored in files on your

diskettes or hard disk. Each file must have a unique filename

so you can retrieve it when you need to. The filename consists

of two parts: the name and the extension.

You can choose a name up to eight characters long indicating what the file contains. The name can contain any characters or numbers except for the following:

\/{}:I<>+=;,.?*

The extension is optional and can be up to three characters long. It describes what type of file it is, such as a text file or program file. When you use an extension, separate it from the file name with a period. For example, an MS-DOS filename might look like this:

DATA.TXT

Sometimes you have to further identify your files by telling MS-DOS on which drive the file is stored. To do this, you type the letter-A, B, or C-of the disk drive where the file is located, followed by a colon, and then the filename. For example:

B:DATA.TXT

You can type the drive identifier and filename in upper- or

lowercase letters. MS-DOS does not differentiate between the

two, but converts everything to uppercase letters.

MS-DOS stores your files in directories. A directory contains specific information about each file stored there, such

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as its name, size, location, and the date and time you last updated the file.

If you do not create any other directories on your diskette, you will always be working in the root directory. This is often the case when using a diskette rather than a hard disk. The root directory is the main directory on a disk and is identified by a backslash (\). The directory you are working in is called the current directory. When you first load MS-DOS the root directory is the current directory.

If you want to access a file or program stored in a subdirectory, you need to log on to that drive or identify it when entering the command. For more information, see “Creating and Using Subdirectories” later in this chapter or see your MS-DOS manual.

Changing the Default Drive

When you see the A> prompt, you know that MS-DOS is

operating from drive A and you can now enter a command.

If, however, you want to run a program or find a file on a different drive, you must specify that drive. You can do this by including the drive letter with the filename or by logging onto that drive. To log onto drive B, follow these steps:

1. At the A > prompt, type: B:

Be sure to type the colon.

2. Press Enter.

Your screen now displays the B> prompt. This means that MS-DOS is now using drive B. The system continues to read from drive B, which is now the default drive, until you log back onto drive A.

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Formatting Diskettes

Before you can store data on a new diskette, the diskette must be formatted. Formatting prepares the diskette so MS-DOS can write to it. You need to do this only once, before you use the diskette for the first time.

You can also reformat previously used diskettes. Reformatting, however, erases all data on that diskette. Always be sure that you do not want to save any of the data on a

used diskette before you format it.

The formatting procedure you use depends on the

configuration of your system:

l Two diskette drives

One diskette drive (and one hard disk).

Follow the instructions below for your system.

Formatting with two diskette drives

Follow this procedure to format a diskette in drive B. The drive can be either the internal drive on the left side of the computer or an external 5 t -inch diskette drive.

Insert your working copy of the MS-DOS system diskette

in drive A (and press any key if necessary).

2. When you see the A> prompt, type:

FORMAT B:

and press Enter. You see this prompt:

Insert new diskette for drive B: and strike ENTER when ready

Insert the diskette you want to format into drive B, and

press Enter to start formatting. MS-DOS displays the head

and cylinder numbers as it formats each cylinder of the

diskette.

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When the diskette is completely formatted, you see messages such as these (for a 720KB diskette):

Format complete

730112 bytes total disk space 730112 bytes available on disk

Format another (Y/N)?

At this point, you can either press Y and Enter to format another diskette, or press N and Enter to return to the MS-DOS system prompt.

Formatting with one diskette drive

Insert your working copy of the MS-DOS system diskette in drive A (and press any key if necessary) or log on to drive C (the hard disk) by typing C:.

2. When you see the A> or C> prompt, type: FORMAT A:

and press Enter. You see this prompt:

Insert new diskette for drive A: and strike ENTER when ready

3. If the MS-DOS diskette is in drive A, remove it. Then

insert the diskette you want to format in drive A, and press Enter to start formatting. MS-DOS displays the head

and cylinder numbers as it formats each cylinder of the

diskette.

4. When the diskette is completely formatted, you see these

messages:

Format complete

730112 bytes total disk space 730112 bytes available on disk

Format another (Y/N)?

At this point, you can either format another diskette by

pressing Y and Enter, or return to the MS-DOS system prompt by pressing N and Enter.

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Copying Data

It’s very important to have backup copies of the files you create on your diskettes or hard disk. You can copy data and program files several ways: you can back up an entire diskette using the DISKCOPY command, or you can back up individual files using the COPY command. Epson also provides

a disk utility program called DU that you can use to copy diskettes; this utility is described in your MS-DOS manual.

Using the DISKCOPY command

The three procedures below explain how to copy the entire contents of one diskette to another. Follow the procedure for your system configuration:

l Two 3 + -inch diskette drives (copying from A to B)

l One 3 + -inch diskette drive (copying from A to A)

One 5 f -inch diskette drive.

Note

You cannot use DISKCOPY to copy from a 3 + -inch drive to a 5 d -inch drive or vice versa. You must use the COPY command (described below) to copy individual files. And you cannot use the DISKCOPY command to back up files on the hard disk. Use either the COPY command or the BACKUP command, which is described in your MS-DOS manual.

Copying with two 3 $ -inch diskette drives

First be sure your original diskette is write-protected. (See

Chapter 3 for instructions.)

Insert the working copy of your MS-DOS system diskette

in drive A.

3. At the A> prompt, type: DISKCOPY A: B:

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and press Enter. MS-DOS prompts you to insert your

diskettes:

Insert SOURCE diskette in drive A: Insert TARGET diskette in drive B:

Press any key when ready . .

Insert the diskette you want to copy from in drive A and the diskette you want to copy to in drive B. Then press

any key.

DISKCOPY checks to see if the target diskette is formatted. If it is not, DISKCOPY formats the diskette. You see the message:

Formatting while copying

The copy operation begins when the format is complete. You see this message:

Copying 80 tracks 9 Sectors/Track, 2 Side(s)

When the copy is complete, you see this message:

Copy another diskette (Y/N)?

Your diskette has now been copied and you can either make another copy or leave the DISKCOPY command. Press Y to perform another copy or N to end the DISKCOPY command.

Copying with one 3 f -inch diskette drive

First be sure your original diskette is write-protected. (See Chapter 3 for instructions.)

Insert the working copy of your MS-DOS system diskette

in drive A or type C: to log on to drive C, the hard disk.

3. At the A> or C> prompt, type: DISKCOPY

and press Enter.

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4-9

MS-DOS displays these messages:

Insert SOURCE diskette in drive A: Press any key when ready . . .

4. If the MS-DOS diskette is in drive A, remove it. Then insert the diskette you want to copy from in the drive and press any key.

DISKCOPY copies the contents of the diskette to the

computer’s memory. The screen displays these messages while copying:

Copying 80 tracks 9 Sectors/Track, 2 Side(s)

When all the files have been copied or the memory is full, the screen displays these messages:

Insert TARGET diskette in drive A: Press any key when ready . . .

Remove the diskette from drive A and insert the blank diskette in the drive.

DISKCOPY checks to see if the new diskette is formatted. If it is not, DISKCOPY formats the diskette. You see the message:

Formatting while copying

The copy operation begins when the format is complete. You see these messages:

Copying 80 tracks 9 Sectors/Track, 2 Side(s)

If the source diskette contains more data than can be stored in the computer’s memory (which is 640KB), the screen prompts you to insert the source diskette again to copy the remaining data to memory. Then it prompts you to insert the target diskette again to copy the remaining data from memory to the diskette. Follow the instructions on the screen.

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When the copy is completed, you see this message:

Copy another diskette (Y/N)?

Your diskette has now been copied and you can either make another copy or leave the DISKCOPY command.

Press Y to perform another copy or N to end the

DISKCOPY command.

Copying with one 5 f -inch diskette drive

Follow the steps below to make a copy of a 360KB diskette in an external 5 + -inch diskette drive. These instructions assume the external drive is assigned as drive B. If you turned off DIP switch 2 on the back panel to make the external drive A, substitute A for B in the instructions.

First be sure your original diskette is write-protected.

(There should be a write-protect tab over the write-protect

notch.)

Insert the working copy of your MS-DOS system diskette

in drive A (or type C: to log on to drive C if you have a hard disk).

3. At the A> or C> prompt, type:

DISKCOPY B: B:

and press Enter. MS-DOS displays these messages:

Insert SOURCE diskette in drive B:

Press any key when ready . . .

Insert the diskette you want to copy from in the external

diskette drive (B) and press Enter.

DISKCOPY copies the contents of the diskette to the

computer’s memory. Then the screen displays these

messages:

Insert TARGET diskette in drive B: Press any key when ready . . .

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Remove the diskette from drive B and insert the blank diskette in the drive.

DISKCOPY checks to see if the new diskette is formatted.

If it is not, DISKCOPY formats the diskette. You see the

message:

Formatting while copying

The copy operation begins when the format is complete. You see these messages:

Copying 40 tracks 9 Sectors/Track, 2 Side(s)

When the copy is complete, the screen displays this message:

Copy another diskette (Y/N)?

Your diskette has now been copied and you can either make another copy or leave the DISKCOPY command. Press Y to perform another copy or N to end the DISKCOPY command.

Using the COPY command

You can use the COPY command to copy files in several

ways. You can do the following:

Copy individual files from one diskette to another or to the same diskette

Copy a group of files using wildcard characters

Copy one or more files and give them new names.

A few simple rules apply when copying files:

You must tell MS-DOS where to find the source file and

where to store the target file.

You cannot create a new file with the same name as an existing file.

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l If an existing file on the target diskette has the same name

as the file you are copying from the source diskette, the copy replaces the file on the target diskette. Because there is no warning that the file on the target diskette is being replaced, be very careful that you do not accidentally erase a file you want to keep.

l The target diskette cannot be an unformatted diskette.

To use the COPY command, type COPY, the drive

identifiers, and the necessary filenames, and then press Enter. In the following examples, you substitute your own filenames for the items in italics.

Suppose you want to copy a particular file from the

diskette in drive A to the diskette in drive B using the same name. Type:

COPY A: file1.ext B:

If you want to copy a file from the diskette in drive A to

the diskette in drive B using a new name, type:

COPY A:file1.ext B:file2.ext To copy a file onto the same diskette with a new name, type:

COPY file1 file2

In this case, you do not need the drive identifiers.

An easy way to copy a group of files is by using a wildcard

character in the filenames. You can use two wildcard characters: *

and ?. The asterisk represents any group of characters and the question mark represents any single character. To copy all the files on the diskette in drive A to the diskette in drive B, type:

COPY A:*.* B:

To copy to drive B all the files on drive A that begin with the same four letters but are followed by a single letter that varies, type:

COPY A:file? B:

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Listing the Contents of a Diskette

You will often want to see which files are stored on your diskettes or hard disk. For example, before you format a used diskette and erase its contents, always check the contents of the diskette to be sure you will not erase any valuable files.

The DIR command lists the names of all files in the selected

directory on a diskette or hard disk. At the MS-DOS prompt (A>, B>, or C>), type:

DIR

and press Enter. MS-DOS lists the names of the files in the

current directory on the current drive.

If you are logged on to drive A but want to see a directory

of the files on the diskette in drive B, type:

DIR B:

and press Enter.

The DIR command lists the names of the files, and also lists any subdirectories, the sizes of the files in bytes, and the date and time each file was last modified. At the end of the directory listing is the number of files and available bytes on your diskette.

Creating and Using Subdirectories

Because a diskette or hard disk can store many files, you

need a way of organizing them. Trying to find a particular file in a directory list of dozens or hundreds is difficult.

The simple solution to this problem is to divide a directory

into subdirectories. There are four basic operations you need to know to create and use subdirectories:

l Creating subdirectories l Changing subdirectories l Using pathnames

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l Copying from one subdirectory to another.

Each subdirectory has a name, and any file in any subdirectory can be identified and accessed using a pathname. The root directory is always designated by a backslash (\). The name of the subdirectory can have up to eight characters, using letters or numbers or both, but not punctuation marks.

To see how all four basic subdirectory operations work, follow the instructions below. These examples use a few MS-DOS commands that you may not know. You can do the examples without knowing anything about the commands, but if you need more information, see your MS-DOS manual.

Creating subdirectories

Starting at the A> prompt (for the dual diskette model) or

the C> prompt (for the hard disk model), first type CD\ and press Enter to make sure that you are in the root directory. Then type the following and press Enter:

MD \LETTERS

MD stands for Make Directory (you can also type MKDIR), the

backslash ensures that the new directory is a subdirectory of

the root directory, and LETTERS is the name of the new subdirectory.

Next type the following and press Enter: MD \MEMOS

This command creates another subdirectory called MEMOS. Now you have two subdirectories (LETTERS and MEMOS) in

your root directory.

Next, create a sample file in each of these subdirectories for

the purpose of this example. Type the following and press

Enter at the end of each line:

COPY CON:1 LETTERS 1 LETTER1 This is the first letter.

Using MS-DOS With the Equity LT 4-15

Press F6. Then type the following and press Enter at the end

of each line:

COPY

CON:

\ MEMOS \ MEMO1

This is the first memo.

Press F6.

Now you have one file in each of the subdirectories. (The COPY command with CON: copies what you enter from the keyboard to a file.)

To display the names of these new subdirectories in the

root directory, type DIR and press Enter. In the list of files in the root directory, you should see the following:

LETTERS

MEMOS

The <DIR> after a name identifies this as a subdirectory of the current directory.

If you want to access either of the new files you created,

you must first do one of the following:

l Change directories l Specify the pathname.

<DIR>

Changing directories

To change directories, merely type CD followed by a

backslash and the name of the subdirectory. For example, to change to the LETTERS subdirectory, type the following and press Enter:

CD \ LETTERS

CD is for Change Directory (you can also type CHDIR), the

backslash (for root directory) specifies that the new directory is

a subdirectory of the root directory, and LETTERS is the name

of the new directory.

4-16 Using MS-DOS With the Equity LT

Type DIR and press Enter to show that you are now in the

LETTERS subdirectory. You should see the following:

LETTER1 Now you can use the LETTER1 file. For example, to

display the contents of the file on the screen, type the following and press Enter:

TYPE LETTER1

You should see the following:

This is the first letter.

Now type CD\ and press Enter to return to the root

directory.

Using pathnames

You can also use the LETTER1 file without leaving the root directory. All you have to do is specify the pathname along with the filename. For example, type the following and press Enter:

TYPE \ LETTERS \ LETTER1 The pathname \ LETTERS \ LETTER1 is the full pathname

for the file LETTER1. You can use it no matter what directory you are in (as long as it is on the same disk). The first backslash (for root directory) signifies that the path to the file starts in the root directory, and LETTERS is the name of the subdirectory.

In a pathname, the filename is always last and is always preceded by a backslash. A backslash at the beginning of a pathname signifies the root directory, but subsequent backslashes merely separate directory levels.

Putting files in separate subdirectories is almost the same as

putting them on separate disks. You have to specify the

pathname or change directories to access files in different

Using MS-DOS With the Equity LT

4-17

subdirectories just as you have to specify the drive or log onto a different drive to access files on different disks.

Copying from one subdirectory to another

You can also copy files from one subdirectory to another with the COPY command. Simply specify the pathname for the file you want to copy and for the subdirectory to which you want the copy to go. For example, to copy LETTER1 from the LETTERS subdirectory to the MEMOS subdirectory, type the following and press Enter:

COPY \ LETTERS 1 LETTER1

Your word processing or other application program may have other methods of creating and changing directories, but the descriptions of commands and pathnames above should help you organize your files in any application program.

If you want to make extensive use of subdirectories, see the following subjects in your MS-DOS manual: XTREE, PATH,

and AUTOEXEC.BAT files.

\ MEMOS

Starting an Application Program

After you have loaded MS-DOS, you can start using an

application program. Remove your MS-DOS diskette from drive A and insert your application program diskette. From this point on, the documentation that comes with your application program will give you instructions on how to use it.

Once you start using your application program, the

MS-DOS command prompt disappears. Instead, you see the prompts and screens that are unique to the application program. When you finish using and exit the application program, the MS-DOS command prompt reappears. Be sure to exit the application program properly to return to this command prompt before you turn off your computer.

4-18 Using MS-DOS With the Equity LT

MS-DOS Commands and the Equity LT

Your MS-DOS manual describes all the commands on the MS-DOS diskette that you can use on the Equity LT. Three commands described in the manual are not on your MS-DOS diskette: HELP, ROMBIOS, and SYSTAT. These files are on your reference diskette. If you want to use them, be sure to insert the reference diskette in the drive or log on to the directory on your hard disk where they are stored.

If you want these files to be on your MS-DOS diskette or in a particular directory, use the COPY command to copy them.

Additionally, you may find that a particular MS-DOS command does not work on your Equity LT; this is because of the computer’s hardware. For example, you cannot use some parts of the MODE command because they have to do with a monochrome monitor.

Using the backlit screen with memory resident programs

If you use memory resident programs such as the popular desk top accessories or the MS-DOS KEYBxx commands, you may find that you cannot turn on the screen’s backlighting once it has automatically turned itself off. If this happens, save

any data files you are working on and reset your computer.

You can prevent this problem from occurring by using the

Epson LIGHTON utility (on your Reference diskette). First load your memory resident program and then enter the LIGHTON command (type LIGHTON and press Enter); this order is very important. Another solution is to select no time limit for the backlight period in the Setup program. (See Chapter 1 for instructions.)

If you use memory resident programs that interfere with the backlit screen’s operation, it is best to install them with a batch

file that also includes LIGHTON as the last command.

Using MS-DOS With the Equity LT

4-19

Appendix A

Options and Maintenance

This appendix describes how to connect a color monitor to

the computer and how to replace the backlit screen element. It

also explains how to turn off the hard disk if you are running the computer on its battery.

Connecting a Color Monitor

If you bought a color monitor to use with your Equity LT,

follow the instructions below to connect it to the computer.

Be sure both the computer and monitor (as well as any other peripherals) are turned off.

Place your monitor near the Equity LT main unit. It is easiest to connect the monitor cable if the backs of the monitor and computer face you.

If necessary, connect the monitor cable to the monitor. (Some monitors come with permanently attached cables.)

4. Connect the appropriate end of the monitor cable to the

CRT connector at the back of the computer, as shown

below.

Options and Maintenance

A-l

If the plug has retaining screws, tighten them with a screwdriver.

If necessary, plug the monitor’s power cable first into the power inlet on the monitor. (Some monitors come with permanently attached power cables.) Then plug the power cable into an electrical outlet.

6. Turn off DIP switch 4 above the keyboard to let the computer know you will be using a monitor instead of the LCD screen. (See “Setting the DIP Switches” in Chapter 1.)

When you are ready to use the computer, turn on the

monitor and any other peripherals, and then turn on the computer. Text will be displayed on the monitor screen instead of the computer screen.

Replacing the Backlit Screen Element

If you need to replace the electroluminescent element in the

backlit screen, follow the instructions below. The procedure has

many steps, but they are not difficult. Still, you must be very careful not to damage any components on or inside the screen. If you have any reservations about doing this yourself, ask your dealer to install it for you.

Turn off all peripherals and the computer before you begin.

Use a flat blade screwdriver to remove the plastic tops of the brightness and contrast switches.

A-2

Options and Maintenance

Set the switch tops aside in a safe place.

Use the screwdriver to remove the plastic cover on each of the arms that hold the screen, as shown below.

When the covers on both arms are off, pull the screen straight up, out of the arms.

Options and Maintenance

A-3

Turn the screen over and lay it on a flat surface (such as a table) so you are looking at the back. Locate the small plastic screw cover on each side of the screen, near the

bottom. As shown below, use a small screwdriver to lift out

each of the covers.

screw cover

Use a Phillips screwdriver to remove both screws and set them aside.

Holding the screen carefully to keep it together, turn it over so it is face up and lay it flat on the table.

A-4

Options and Maintenance

8. Carefully lift off the front cover of the screen as shown below and set it aside.

On either side of the screen is a screen latch mechanism (shown below). Lift out the one on right side and set it aside in a safe place. You can leave the one on the left side in place.

Options and Maintenance

A-5

10. Also on the right side, near the top, is a connector that connects the power supply to the screen. Unplug it as shown below.

nnector

11. Carefully lift up the power supply and set it next to the screen as shown below. It is connected by cables so you cannot remove it completely. Be careful not to strain any of the cables.

A-6

Options and Maintenance

12. Grasp the tan-colored tab from which you unplugged the connector and carefully pull it out of the screen. This

removes the electroluminescent element, as shown below. The element is flexible, so it is all right if you bend it slightly as you pull it out.

13. Slide the new element into the screen.

14. Replace the power supply you removed in step Il. Be sure it is seated properly and be careful to tuck any cables inside the frame of the screen. Also be sure the screw hole in the power supply, below the screen control switches, is aligned properly with the screw post inside the screen.

15. Reconnect the connector you unplugged in step 10.

Options and Maintenance

A-7

16.

Replace the latch mechanism you removed in step 9. Be careful to seat it properly, as shown below. Also be sure the one on the left side is properly aligned.

17. When all the components are seated inside the screen, replace the front cover you removed in step 8. Be sure the cover fits correctly and the edges of the front and back meet squarely; if not, lift off the cover, re-align the inside components, and try again.

18. Hold the screen firmly so both sides stay together and turn it over so the back faces up.

19. Replace the screws you removed in step 6.

20. Replace the plastic screw covers you removed in step 5; insert the outside tab first and then snap them back into place.

21. Turn the screen over and slide it back into the computer’s two arms.

22. Replace the plastic covers on the front of the arms.

23. Replace the screen switch tops you removed in step 2; you can just push them back on to the plastic stems.

A-8

Options and Maintenance

Turning Off the Hard Disk

To avoid drive access problems, it is best to leave the hard

disk switch on at all times. However, if you are using the computer without the AC adapter, you may want to turn the hard disk off when you are not using it to conserve the charge of the computer’s battery. The hard disk drive uses more of the battery’s charge than a diskette drive.

You can turn off the hard disk either before you turn on

the computer or after:

If you do not plan to use the hard disk at all, turn it off before you turn on the computer.

If you need to load MS-DOS or an application program or access files on the hard disk, leave the hard disk switch on when you turn on the computer and turn it off later as described below.

Turning off the hard disk first

If you will not be using the hard disk at all, turn off the switch before turning on the computer. When you turn on the computer, the screen displays this error message:

1701-C

Press F1 to continue. Insert the MS-DOS diskette in drive A and load the operating system from that drive. Then you can use the computer just as you would if it had no hard disk drive. Remember, if you do this, you cannot access the hard disk even if you turn it on.

Turning off the hard disk later

If you want to use the hard disk at any time during your session, turn on the computer with the hard disk switch turned on. You do not need to use the hard disk all the time, and you can turn it off after the operating system has loaded or after you have loaded an application program from drive C. However, there are a few things you need to know about using the hard disk this way.

Options and Maintenance

A-9

When you load MS-DOS f system is copied to the computer’s memory; however, all the MS-DOS programs remain only on drive C and are not copied to memory. When you turn off the hard disk, the computer no longer has a drive C. This means that if you type a command such as DISKCOPY, the operating system will not be able to find it because there is no drive C.

This may not matter if you are using an application program (such as a word processing or spreadsheet program) because once it is loaded, you will use the commands provided by the program. However, if you want to store data on the hard disk, you need to turn it back on.

rom the hard disk, the operating

Note

Some application programs have overlays which must be on

the current drive. For these types of programs, you need to run

them from drive A.

The following example shows the proper procedure for

turning the hard disk off while the computer is on.

Suppose you turn on the computer with the hard disk switch on. MS-DOS loads from the hard disk.

Next type A: and press Enter to log on to drive A.

If you want to load an application program from the hard

disk, do it now. Be sure to type C: and the pathname of any subdirectories, as necessary, in front of the name of the

application program.

You must to do this before you turn off the hard disk. You

may also want to copy any files you will be using from

drive C to drive A.

Note

If you are still logged on to drive C when you turn off the hard disk, the next time you enter a command, the screen displays an error message. If this happens, turn the hard disk back on and then log on drive A.

A-10

Options and Maintenance

After you log on to drive A, you can turn off the hard disk.

Continue using the application program, working on drive A.

6. When you want to save your text on the hard disk, turn it on. Enter the command for saving the text on drive C. The hard disk may take up to 10 seconds to perform the operation because it needs to reinitialize itself.

Options and Maintenance

A-11

Appendix B

Troubleshooting

You should not encounter any serious difficulties as you set up and use your Equity LT. But if anything out of the ordinary happens, read this appendix. 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 you suspect there is a problem with some

part of your hardware, try running some or all of the system

diagnostics, described in Appendix D. If you cannot resolve the problem, 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 LT if you turn it off and on rapidly.

Error Messages

If the screen displays an error message during the power-on diagnostics, see Appendix C. If the screen displays an error message while you are running system diagnostics, described in Appendix D, check the error message table at the end of that appendix for the cause. Then give the information to your Epson dealer.

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 above the keyboard is on. If it is not, remove any diskettes and then turn off the power. Wait five seconds, then turn the power back on.

Troubleshooting

If the power light still does not come on, turn off the power switch. Check to see that the AC adapter is securely connected to both the computer and an electrical outlet. Then turn the power back on.

3. 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 LCD Screen is Blank

If the computer starts up but no image appears on the

LCD screen, follow these steps to solve the problem:

Use the contrast switch (and brightness switch if your screen has one) to adjust the screen display.

Be sure DIP switch 4 above the keyboard is turned on to select the LCD screen as the display device. (See ‘Setting the DIP Switches” in Chapter 1 for instructions.)

Remove any diskettes, then turn off the computer. Check that the LCD screen is properly connected to the computer. (See Chapter 1 for instructions.) Wait at least five seconds and then turn the computer back on.

If you have the backlit model screen, you may need to

replace its electroluminescent element. See ‘Caring for the Backlit Screen” in Chapter 3 and also see Appendix A.

The Monitor Screen is Blank

If you are using a color monitor with the computer but no image appears on the screen, follow these steps to solve the problem:

Be sure the power switches on the computer and monitor

are turned on.

Use the controls on the monitor to adjust the brightness

and contrast.

B-2 Troubleshooting

3. 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 monitor and to an electrical outlet, and that the monitor cable is properly connected to both the monitor and the main unit. Then turn both power switches back on.

4. Be sure DIP switch 4 above the keyboard is turned off to select the monitor as the display device. (See “Setting the DIP Switches” in Chapter 1 for instructions.)

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 keyboard, 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 many 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 3 under ‘Resetting the Computer.”

Low Battery Problems

If the battery runs low, recharge it according to the

instructions in Chapter 3.

The battery inside the Equity LT should last as long as the computer does. If, however, the battery seems to be running low sooner than it should after being recharged, you can test it by following the steps on the next page.

Troubleshooting

B-3

1. Turn off the computer.

Connect the AC adapter to the computer and to an electrical outlet and let the battery charge for at least 12 hours.

3. Disconnect the AC adapter.

4. Turn on the computer, but do not insert a diskette and do not use the computer. Leave the computer in this condition for three hours. If the low battery (LOW BAT) indicator light comes on before the three hours are up, the battery is faulty. Take your computer to your dealer to have the

internal battery pack replaced.

Diskette 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.

Have you inserted the right type of diskette? The diskette type is normally shown on the manufacturer’s label. In the computer’s internal drives, which have a storage capacity of 720KB, use 3 per inch), soft-sectored diskettes.

If you have a 5 $ -inch external diskette drive, use 360KB, double-sided, double-density, 48 TPI, soft-sectored diskettes in this drive.

3. Is the diskette write-protected? The write-protect switch may be set on a 3 + -inch diskette or there may be a writeprotect tab over the notch of a 5 d -inch diskette. Before you move the switch or remove the tab, check the directory

B-4

+-inch,

720KB, double-sided, 135 TPI (tracks

Troubleshooting

to see what files the diskette contains; it may contain information you do not want to change or lose. (Chapter 4 describes how to display a directory.) Although you should normally write-protect all program diskettes, some application programs store temporary files on the diskette. These programs do not work if you write-protect the

diskette.

Hard Disk Problems

If you have problems with your hard disk when you first

start to use it, make sure it has been set up properly. See

Chapter 2, “Preparing a Hard Disk for Use.” Also be sure the switch on the back panel is on. See “Hard Disk Power Switch” in Chapter 2.

If you cannot access data stored on your hard disk, you may have accidentally repartitioned or reformatted part or all of the 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 airtight 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 (on the right side of the computer).

An application program does not work. Check the software manual and complete the routine according to the instructions. If this does not work, reset the computer (as described in Chapter 3 under “Resetting the Computer”), reload the program, and try the routine again.

Troubleshooting

B-5

To operate properly, some programs require the computer to run at 4.77 MHz. Try changing the CPU speed with the switch above the keyboard. See “Selecting Execution Speed” in Chapter 3.

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. Carefully follow all the instructions in your software manual on installing

a printer.

B-6

Troubleshooting

Epson Y16499100301 User Manual

Specifications and Main Features

Frequently Asked Questions

User Manual

Contents

Introduction

How to Use This Manual

Unpacking

Connecting the Screen

Connecting the AC Adapter

Charging the Battery

Connecting a Printer

Parallel interface

Serial interface

Setting the DIP Switches

Keyboard DIP switches

Back panel DIP switches

Turning On the Computer

Safety rules

Turning on the power

Adjusting screen contrast and brightness

Initial screen display

Loading MS-DOS

Copying System Diskettes

Copying with two diskette drives

Copying with one diskette drive

Running the Setup Program

Setting the real-time clock

Changing the backlight period

Changing the serial port (RS-232C) settings

Leaving the Setup program

Creating the MS-DOS Partition

Formatting the MS-DOS Partition

Copying the Reference Files to the Hard Disk

Booting From the Hard Disk

Drive Assignments

Hard Disk Power Switch

Using the AC Adapter

Using the Battery

LED Indicators

Opening and Closing the Screen

Using the Handle

Selecting Execution Speed

Resetting the Computer

Caring for the Backlit Screen

Special Keys on the Equity LT Keyboard

The Equity LT Character Set

Using Disks and Disk Drives

How disks work

Choosing diskettes for the Equity LT

Caring for disks and disk drives

Inserting and removing diskettes

Making backup copies

Write-protecting diskettes

Using a single diskette drive

Turning Off the Computer

Starting and Exiting MS-DOS

Entering MS-DOS Commands

Storing Data

Changing the Default Drive

Formatting Diskettes

Formatting with two diskette drives

Formatting with one diskette drive

Copying Data

Using the DISKCOPY command

Using the COPY command

Listing the Contents of a Diskette

Creating and Using Subdirectories

Creating subdirectories

Changing directories

Using pathnames

Copying from one subdirectory to another

Starting an Application Program

MS-DOS Commands and the Equity LT

Using the backlit screen with memory resident programs

Connecting a Color Monitor

Replacing the Backlit Screen Element

Turning Off the Hard Disk

Turning off the hard disk first

Turning off the hard disk later