45365 Northport Loop West., Fremont, CA 94538-6417
Page 2
Copyright Notices
Copyright 1997 Micronics Computers, Inc. The information contained
in the M6DPi PCI/ISA Dual Pentium Pro Processor system board
manual has been carefully checked and is believed to be accurate.
2
Micronics assumes no responsibility for any inaccuracies that may be
contained in this document. Micronics makes no commitments to update
or to keep the information in this manual at a current level when changes
are made to the product.
Micronics reserves the right to make improvements to this document
and/or product at any time and without notice. All Rights Reserved. No
part of this document may be photocopied, reproduced, translated, or
reduced to any medium or machine form without prior, written consent
from Micronics.
Portions of the Manual
Portions of this manual were copied (with permission) from Phoenix
Technologies, Ltd. All rights reserved.
Trademarks
IBM is a registered trademark of International Business Machines. Microsoft and Windows are registered trademarks of Microsoft Corporation.
Intel and PCI are registered trademarks of Intel Corporation. All other
product names mentioned herein are used for identification purposes only
and may be the trademarks of their respective companies.
M6DPi System Board Manual
Page 3
Table of Contents
Introduction5
Features6
Software Compatibility7
Before You Begin8
Chapter 1 - Quick Installation9
Installing the M6DPi9
Chapter 2 - Configuring the M6DPi11
Static Electricity11
Environment Considerations11
M6DPi System Board12
Jumper Settings13
Chapter 3 - Installing the M6DPi17
Introduction17
System Memory Support17
Installing the M6DPi18
Thank you for choosing the M6DPi system board. The
M6DPi supports the most advanced Dual Pentium Pro
processor technology to provide the latest high-performance high-capacity server and workstation solution.
The M6DPi features Wide SCSI, Universal Serial Bus
(USB), RAID-ready support and optional 64-bit graphics
accelerator. The USB interface has a maximum bandwidth of 12Mbps and can connect as many as 127 devices
to a host system. USB supports both standard devices that
operate at the full 12Mbps rate and low-end devices that
use only a 1.5Mbps subchannel. Based on the Intel
440FX PCIset and i960
the PCI to PCI Bridge and I2O technology that sets
valuable resources free.
Designed to fit into the AT form factor, the versatile
M6DPi features support for Fast Page Mode (FPM) and
Extended Data Out (EDO) DRAM advanced memory,
and Error Checking and Correction (ECC) when using
parity memory.
processor, the M6DPi supports
Micronics builds all products to exacting standards, using
the highest quality components available. We are proud
to provide this system board and believe you will be
pleased with your purchase.
M6DPi System Board Manual
5
Page 8
Introduction
Features
The M6DPi includes the following features:
▲ Dual ZIF Socket 8
Intel Pentium
Pro - 150-200MHz
Two VRM headers to supply CPU-specific voltages
▲ PCI-to-PCI Bridge
Intelligent I/O (I
2
O)
i960RP - 33MHz or
i960RD - 66MHz
Inter-integrated circuit (I2C) onboard
▲ Seven 32-bit PCI slots
Two 16-bit ISA slots
One is a shared PCI/ISA slot
One RAID Port (ARO 1130) attached to PCI slot
▲ Maximum memory - 1 Gbyte (primary memory)
Four 3.3V unbuffered 64/72-bit 168-pin DIMM sockets
Maximum memory - 128MB memory (for i960
processor)
Two 32/36-bit 72-pin SIMM sockets
▲ Supports FPM and EDO DRAM memory
ECC support via chipset when using parity memory
▲ Fast/Wide SCSI Bus Mastering controller w/ 50-pin S CSI
connector, 68-pin SCSI connector and EZ-SCSI drivers
(optional)
▲ Cirrus Logic 5436/5440 PCI graphics accelerator
(optional)
▲ Two Universal Serial Bus (USB) headers
6
M6DPi System Board Manual
Page 9
Introduction
Software Compatibility
The M6DPi system board has been thoroughly tested for
compatibility with a variety of operating systems and environments, including:
▲ Microsoft
DOS 5.0
DOS 6.2
Windows 95
Windows NT 3.51
Windows NT 4.0
▲ IBM
OS/2 Warp 3.0
OS/2 Warp 4.0
▲ SCO
UNIXWare 2.1.1
Open Server 5.02
UNIX 3.2, 4.2
▲ Novell NetWare 3.12
Novell NetWare 4.11
M6DPi System Board Manual
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Page 10
Introduction
This manual will familiarize you with the features, installation and use of your M6DPi. There are several symbols and
conventions used throughout this manual to help draw your
attention to a feature or to focus on important information:
Common Names
DIMMDual Inline Memory Module
DRAMDynamic Random Access Memory
DTMFDesktop Management Task Force
ECCError Checking and Correction
EDOExtended Data Out
FPMFast Page Mode
IDEIntegrated Drive Electronics
PCIPeripheral Component Interconnect
RAIDRedundant Array of Inexpensive Disks
SCSISmall Computer System Interface
SIMMSingle Inline Memory Module
USBUniversal Serial Bus
VRMVoltage Regulator Module
Before You Begin
When you see the Magnifying Glass, it refers
to something you should take a closer look at
before proceeding further.
When you see the Exclamation Mark, it gives
important information on avoiding damage.
8
M6DPi System Board Manual
Page 11
Chapter
1
STATIC!
Before
handling the
M6DPi, be
properly
grounded by
using a
special wrist
or ankle
strap, or
touch a
safely
grounded
object.
Chapter 1: Quick Installation
Quick Installation
We know that many experienced people prefer to read as
little of the documentation as possible. If this sounds like
you, here’s the short form to get up and running quickly.
Installing the M6DPi
1.Make backup copies of your installation and configuration diskettes.
2.Ground yourself to prevent damaging static discharge, then remove the M6DPi from its packaging.
3.Configure and verify the system board’s jumper settings (refer to Jumper Settings in Chapter 2).
4.Install the CPU and the system memory (refer to
Chapter 3).
5.Install the system board into the chassis and make all
necessary case connections.
6.Install any ISA and/or PCI add-on peripherals (refer
to Chapter 3).
7.Now you can connect any optional devices (refer to
Chapter 3).
8.Turn the computer on and press the <F2> key
when you see the screen in Figure 1.1.
M6DPi System Board Manual
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Page 12
Chapter 1: Quick Installation
Figure 1.1: Power-Up Screen
9.Set the time and date. Adjust the BIOS settings to
match your configuration. If installing an IDE drive,
select the IDE device you wish to configure. Press
ENTER with Autotype Fixed Disk selected and the
BIOS will automatically configure the drive for you
(refer to Chapter 4).
10. After you have configured the Main Setup menu,
make any desired setting configurations in the Advanced and Security menu. When finished, go to the
exit screen, select “Save Changes and Exit” and you
are finished with the BIOS configuration (see Chapter 4).
11. Install the video controller device drivers (optional).
Refer to Chapter 5.
12. Install the SCSI device drivers (optional). Refer to
Chapter 5.
10
M6DPi System Board Manual
Page 13
Chapter 2: Configuring the M6DPi
Chapter
2
Configuring the M6DPi
Although the M6DPi system board is packaged in protective materials, it is important to use care while unpacking and setting up.
Static Electricity
The M6DPi is shipped from the factory in an antistatic
bag. To reduce the possibility of damage, it is important
to neutralize any accumulated static charges on your
body before handling the board. The best way to do this
is to ground yourself using a special wrist or ankle strap.
If you do not have a strap, you should touch both of your
hands to a safely grounded object. After you have
grounded yourself, ground the M6DPi via the solder
pads surrounding one of its mounting holes.
Once the M6DPi is removed from its packaging, place it
on top of the antistatic bag. Carefully inspect the board
for damage which may have occurred during shipment.
Environment Considerations
Make sure the finished computer system is in an area
with good ventilation. The system should not be in direct
sunlight, near heaters, or exposed to moisture, dust or
dirt.
M6DPi System Board Manual
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Page 14
Chapter 2: Configuring the M6DPi
M6DPi System Board
12
Figure 2.1: M6DPi System Board
M6DPi System Board Manual
Page 15
Chapter 2: Configuring the M6DPi
Jumper Settings
This chapter gives you the jumper settings used for the M6DPi system
board.
Table 2-1 lists the jumper settings to select the system-speed settings.
Jumper
System Speed (Intel Processors)W7W7W7W7W8
1-23-45-67-8
150 MHz Exter nal, 60 MHz Interna lCloseCloseCloseOpenCl ose
166 MHz Exter nal, 66 MHz I nterna lCloseCloseCloseOpenOpen
180 MHz Exter nal, 60 MHz I nterna lCloseCloseOpenCloseClose
200 MHz Exter nal, 66 MHz I nterna lCloseCloseOpenCloseOpen
Table 2-1: CPU Speed Selections
Table 2-2 lists the available clock ratios (internal/external) and the
corresponding jumper settings. Note that these settings are also included in Table 2-1.
Table 2-3 lists the settings for the Soft Power selection.
repmuJrewoPtfoSgnitteS
21W
Table 2-3: Soft Power Settings
lamroN
nOgnilcyCdecroF
2-1
3-2
Table 2-4: Jumper settings to clear the CMOS settings. With your
computer's power off, close pins 2-3, wait ten seconds and place the
jumper back on pins 1-2. (The jumper must be placed back on pins
1-2 for the system to function properly.)
NOTE: This will reset all BIOS default settings. Any changes you have
made will be lost.
CTRteseR31W
)tluafed(lamroN2-1
CTRteseR3-2
Table 2-4: Clear CMOS Settings
Table 2-5 lists the settings to select the optional onboard VGA.
oediV11W
)tluafed(lamroN2-1
AGVelbasiD3-2
Table 2-5: VGA Selection
14
M6DPi System Board Manual
Page 17
Chapter 2: Configuring the M6DPi
Table 2-6 lists the settings to select the optional onboard Fast SCSI.
ISCStsaF01W
)tluafed(lamroN2-1
ISCSelbasiD3-2
Table 2-6: Fast SCSI Selection
Table 2-7 lists the settings to select the optional onboard Wide SCSI.
ISCSediW41W
tceteD-otuA2-1
ISCSediW3-2
Table 2-7: Wide SCSI Selection
Table 2-8 lists the settings to enable or disable Error Checking and
Correction.
snoitcerroCrorrEyromeM2W
CCEelbanEnepO
CCEelbasiDesolC
Table 2-8: ECC Selection
Table 2-9 lists the settings for the i960 processor support.
repmuJ069ignitteS
81W,71W
02W,91W
32W
T able 2-9: i960 Processor Settings
elbasiD
0edoM
)tluafed(lamroN
)tluafed(3edoM
lamroN
)gnittes
egnahctonod(
M6DPi System Board Manual
nepO
esolC
nepO
esolC
2-1
15
Page 18
Chapter 2: Configuring the M6DPi
Table 2-10 lists the connectors and their functions.
This chapter explains how to install the M6DPi system
board, memory, CPU and peripherals.
WARNING: Before installing or removing any peripherals
or components, make sure you have a clear work space and
that you adhere to all anti-static precautions described in
Chapter 1. Micronics recommends only trained technicians
install and configure the system board.
Damage which occurs to the board while adding or removing
peripherals or components may void the warranty. If problems arise while installing peripherals, contact the computer
dealer where you purchased the peripheral or Micronics’
Technical Support Department.
System Memory Support
The flexibility of the M6DPi is augmented by its support
for EDO and FPM DRAM memory and ECC. The
M6DPi supports ECC (with 72-bit DIMMs or 36-bit
SIMMs) via the chipset.
EDO memory is designed to keep data available to the
processor for an extended period of time. The EDO
memory support extends the performance of conventional DRAM memory. The result is an improvement in
memory-access performance on the M6DPi system
board.
M6DPi System Board Manual
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Chapter 3: Installing the M6DPi
Installing the M6DPi
Installation of the M6DPi system board depends on the
type of case you use. The M6DPi is designed for the fullsize AT form factor and is likely to be limited to tower
cases. NOTE: If you are unfamiliar with installing a
system board, Micronics highly recommends that you
read the computer user’s manual or contact your dealer’s
technical support department.
Tools Required
Micronics recommends using the following tools to install the M6DPi:
❏Small Phillips screwdriver
❏Tweezers or a pair of needle-nose pliers
❏Tray (to hold loose screws)
Equipment Required
Micronics recommends using the following equipment
with the M6DPi for a typical configuration:
❏Chassis with standard hardware (tower case prefer-
able).
❏A high-quality power supply capable of providing
continuous power within a 5 volt range. A power
filter may be used with a noisy AC power source.
❏PS/2 mouse and compatible keyboard.
❏Eight ohm speaker.
❏Standard ribbon cables for internal connections.
❏Standard power cord (grounded).
❏Heat sink with cooling fan for each CPU (required).
18
M6DPi System Board Manual
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Chapter 3: Installing the M6DPi
System Memory
System memory is necessary to operate the M6DPi system board. The M6DPi supports DIMM modules for the
main memory. There are four 168-pin 3.3V unbuffered
DIMM sockets for a maximum of 1 Gbyte of memory.
Each socket provides a 64/72-bit wide data path.
The M6DPi also supports SIMM modules for the i960
processor. There are two 72-pin SIMM sockets for a
maximum of 128MB of memory. Each socket provides a
32/36-bit wide data path. These sockets are needed only
when using the i960 processor.
Support is provided for EDO and FPM DRAM memory.
This section lists the rules for adding memory to the
M6DPi, give some examples of common memory configurations and show how to physically install the memory.
Adding Memory
The following is a list of rules to follow when upgrading
DIMMs and SIMMs. If you follow these rules, your
upgrade should be trouble-free:
❏ Use 70ns or faster DIMMs and SIMMs. NOTE: For
long term reliability, Micronics recommends using DIMMs
with gold-plated contacts and SIMMs with tin-plated
contacts.
❏Both SIMM and DIMM (unbuffered) memory mod-
ules support FPM and EDO memory types.
❏Singled-sided and double-sided memory modules
supported.
❏Use the same type and size of memory for every bank.
Different memory types and sizes in separate banks
will cause performance of the memory to run at the
speed of the slowest RAM installed.
M6DPi System Board Manual
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Chapter 3: Installing the M6DPi
Memory Type
SIMM and DIMM memory descriptions are described
below. Note that two (2) SIMM slots make up one (1)
bank whereas only one (1) DIMM slot makes up one (1)
bank.
72-Pin SIMM168-Pin DIMM
20
M6DPi System Board Manual
Page 23
There is no
need to set
any jumpers.
When you
reboot, the
size and
type of
memory are
automatically
detected.
Chapter 3: Installing the M6DPi
Memory Configurations
DIMM memory configuration is auto-banking and therefore does not need to be installed in any particular order.
The following table lists the most common memory
configuration possibilities.
MemoryBank 1Bank 2Bank 3Bank 4
8MB1Mx64
16MB2Mx64
16MB1Mx641Mx64
When
installing
memory,
consider
using the
same speed.
Mixing
memory
speed will
force all
memory to
operate at
the slowest
speed.
The i960 I/O processor requires two (2) 72-pin SIMMs
to operate. The maximum memory is 128 megabytes.
The processor supports 32/36-bit FPM and EDO memory
types. Make sure that the memory is the same size and
speed. Below are some typical memory configurations.
yromeM0knaB1knaB
BM863/23xBM163/23xBM1
BM6163/23xBM263/23xBM2
BM2363/23xBM463/23xBM4
BM4663/23xBM863/23xBM8
BM82163/23xBM6163/23xBM61
24
T able 3.3: i960 Memory Configurations
M6DPi System Board Manual
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Chapter 3: Installing the M6DPi
Installing the DIMMs
The M6DPi uses DIMM modules for the main memory.
To install the DIMMs, locate the memory banks on the
system board and follow the steps below:
1.Hold the DIMM so that the notched edge is aligned
with the notch on the DIMM socket (Figure 3-1).
2.Insert the DIMM at a 90 degree angle.
3.Gently push the DIMM straight down until it locks
into place (past the release tabs).
Figure 3-1: Installing a 168-Pin DIMM
Removing DIMMs
To remove DIMMs, follow the steps below:
1.With both thumbs (or fingers), press the release tabs
away from the socket.
2.With the DIMM free from the release tabs, lift the
module up and place in an anti-static bag or package.
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Chapter 3: Installing the M6DPi
Installing the SIMMs
The M6DPi uses SIMM modules only for the i960RP
processor. To install the SIMMs, locate the memory
banks on the system board and follow the steps below:
1.Hold the SIMM so that the notched edge is aligned
with the notch on the SIMM socket (Figure 3-1).
2.Insert the SIMM at a 45 degree angle.
3.Gently push the SIMM into an upright position until
it locks into place (past the release tabs).
Figure 3-2: Installing a 72-Pin SIMM
Removing SIMMs
To remove SIMMs, follow the steps below:
1.With both thumbs (or fingers), press the release tabs
away from the socket.
2.With the SIMM free from the release tabs, lift the
module up and place in an anti-static bag or package.
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M6DPi System Board Manual
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Chapter 3: Installing the M6DPi
Installing a CPU
The M6DPi is designed to support dual Pentium Pro
processors. Follow the steps below to install the
processor(s):
1.Turn off the computer and remove its cover.
2.Locate the ZIF socket illustrated in Figure 2-1.
3.Lift the lever of the socket.
4.Locate pin 1 on the processor and pin 1 on the socket
(refer to Figure 2-1). Gently place the processor into
the socket, making sure pin 1 on the processor and
pin 1 on the socket are aligned.
5.Push the lever down until it locks into place.
6.Make sure the speed and the voltage selection jumpers are set correctly (refer to Chapter 2 - Jumper
Settings).
7.If you are installing a second processor, you do not
need to change any jumpers or BIOS settings. The
system will automatically recognize the new processor.
8.A VRM module must be installed on header J36
(primary CPU) and J37 (secondary CPU) for each
CPU installed. In addition, the second processor
should have the same speed rating as the main
processor.
WARNING: Pentium Pro processors require a heat-sink
with a cooling fan. Failure to provide adequate cooling of the
processor may seriously affect system performance or cause
permanent damage to the processor.
NOTE: If your operating system supports dual processors, you
may need to reconfigure or reinstall your operating system.
Refer to your software documentation for more information.
M6DPi System Board Manual
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Chapter 3: Installing the M6DPi
Installing a PCI Peripheral Card
Micronics PCI slots accommodate all PCI peripherals
that meet the PCI 2.1 specifications. Follow the steps
below to install a PCI card:
1.Turn the computer system off and remove its cover.
2.Choose an unused PCI slot and remove the slot
cover.
3.Insert the card with the bottom edge level to the slot.
Never insert the card at an angle.
4.Carefully push the card straight down, making sure
the card is fully inserted.
5.Replace the screw which holds the card into place.
6.Replace the computer cover.
7.Refer to the PCI card’s documentation additional
instructions regarding installation and software drivers.
28
Figure 3-3: Installing a PCI Card
M6DPi System Board Manual
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Chapter 3: Installing the M6DPi
Installing an ISA Peripheral Card
Micronics ISA slots accommodate all standard ISA peripherals. Follow the steps below to install a PCI card:
1.Turn the computer system off and remove its cover.
2.Choose an unused ISA slot and remove the slot
cover.
3.Insert the card with the bottom edge level to the slot.
Never insert the card at an angle.
4.Carefully push the card straight down, making sure
the card is inserted fully.
5.Replace the screw that holds the card into place.
6.Replace the computer cover.
7.Refer to the ISA card’s documentation for additional
instructions regarding installation and software drivers.
Figure 3-4: Installing an ISA Card
M6DPi System Board Manual
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Chapter 3: Installing the M6DPi
Connecting the Graphics Option
The M6DPi is designed to accommodate an optional
VGA video connector and comes with a 15-pin monitor
cable. The connector pin-outs for both the 15-pin VGA
onboard connector and monitor cable connector are the
same as the standard 15-pin D-shell connector pin-outs.
The graphics option comes with 1MB of DRAM memory.
The 64-bit graphics processor provides high-speed acceleration in all graphic modes. It uses a full 64-bit noninterleaved DRAM interface, which is twice the throughput of 32-bit controllers. Full motion digital video can be
scaled up to full screen at 1024x768 resolution.
Connecting the Video Cable
1.Turn the computer system off.
2.Locate the monitor's power switch and make sure it
is turned OFF.
3.Plug the end of the video cable with the 15-pin
connector (which is larger than the other connector) into the video socket on the back of your
monitor. Then tighten the two thumbscrews on the
cable connector.
4.Plug the other end of the video cable into the video
socket on the M6DPi and tighten the thumbscrews
(see Figure 2.1).
See Chapter 5 for information on installing video device
drivers.
30
M6DPi System Board Manual
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Chapter 3: Installing the M6DPi
Connecting the SCSI Option
Some versions of the M6DPi include an integrated Ultra
Wide SCSI PCI throughput (up to 40MBytes/sec data
rate). Connectors are provided for Normal SCSI (50-pin
connector) and Wide SCSI (68-pin connector).
The Wide SCSI configuration allows up to 15 SCSI
peripherals to be connected. The M6DPi SCSI interface
is Plug and Play compliant and is fully compatible with
the PCI 2.1 specification.
Refer to the "Adaptec AHA-2940Ultra/2940Ultra Wide
User's Guide" for information on installing and connecting SCSI devices.
M6DPi System Board Manual
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Chapter 3: Installing the M6DPi
32
M6DPi System Board Manual
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Chapter 4: The BIOS Setup Utility
Chapter
4
The BIOS Setup Utility
Configuration
After the M6DPi system board and all hardware is
installed, the system is ready for configuration. Before
turning on the computer, make sure all cables are correctly connected and all jumpers are correctly set.
It is recommended you keep the computer cover off the
first time you boot the system. This will make it easier to
correct any difficulties that might arise.
Initial Boot Up
Power up the M6DPi. If the system does not properly
boot, check all your cables and peripherals for bad
connections. You may also get beep codes or error
messages. If this occurs, consult Appendices B and/or C
for a guide to possible solutions.
After the system properly boots, it is ready to be configured. The following information explains the proper
procedures for BIOS configuration.
Setup
The Setup program is used to configure the computer’s
BIOS (Basic Input/Output System). The computer’s
BIOS is responsible for configuring the system board and
providing hardware information to the operating system.
In order for the computer to run properly, run the Setup
procedure after first installing the system board and
whenever you make a hardware change to the system.
M6DPi System Board Manual
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Page 36
Chapter 4: The BIOS Setup Utility
After the system is turned on and goes through a memory
test, the Power-Up screen (Figure 4-1) will appear on
your monitor:
Figure 4-1: P ower-Up Screen
When “Press <F2> to enter SETUP” appears at the
bottom of the screen, press the <F2> key to start the
Setup program. The main CMOS Setup screen (Figure
4-2) appears. The Setup program can only be activated
during the boot sequence.
34
M6DPi System Board Manual
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Chapter 4: The BIOS Setup Utility
Running the Setup Procedure
The M6DPi system board has six primary CMOS configuration screens: Main Screen, Advanced Screen, Security
Screen, Power Screen, Boot Screen and Exit Screen. To
toggle between the screens, press the right arrow <→>
and the left arrow < ←> keys.
Setting the Main Screen
The CMOS Main screen (Figure 4-2) is used to set the
time and date, to set the floppy drive types, to configure
IDE hard disks and to configure the video. This chapter
explains how to configure each of these categories. To
move between the categories, use the up and down arrow
<↑/↓> keys.
Figure 4-2: CMOS Main Screen
M6DPi System Board Manual
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Chapter 4: The BIOS Setup Utility
System Time and Date
To set the Time, use the <-> key to decrease the number
and the <+> key to increase the number. To move the
prompt forward, use the <Tab> key; to move the
prompt backward, use the <Shift-Tab> key. To set the
date, use the up and down arrows<↑/↓> to highlight the
System Date and follow the same procedure used to set
the time.
Diskette A or B
To configure a floppy drive added to or removed from
your computer, use the up and down arrow keys <↑/↓>
to select the desired drive. Use the <+/-> keys to
change the setting until it matches the floppy drive you
installed. The BIOS supports 2.88MB, 1.44MB, 1.2MB,
720KB, and 360KB floppy drives.
Primary IDE Devices
If you are setting up a SCSI hard disk, select None in the
IDE Device parameters (see your SCSI card manual for
more details). To install an IDE device, select the device
to configure and press ENTER. An IDE Device submenu
will appear (see Figure 4-3).
Numlock
Setting this to ON activates Numlock upon boot. Setting
this to Auto (default) activates Numlock if the BIOS
detects a numeric keyboard. It may also be set to OFF.
External Cache
This selection allows you to enable the external memory
cache. For optimal performance, select Enabled.
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M6DPi System Board Manual
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Chapter 4: The BIOS Setup Utility
Video BIOS
The Video BIOS category allows you to Shadow or
Shadow & Cache the video BIOS. Choosing Shadowed
& Cached (default) caches the shadowed video BIOS for
even higher performance. Choosing Shadowed copies
the video BIOS into RAM for faster execution. To
disable the Video BIOS category, select Disabled.
System BIOS
The System BIOS category allows you to Shadow or
Shadow & Cache the system BIOS. Choosing Shadowed
& Cached (default) caches the shadowed system BIOS
for even higher performance. Choosing Shadowed copies
the system BIOS into RAM for faster execution.
System Memory
The System Memory category identifies the size of the
base memory. It cannot be changed.
Extended Memory
The Extended Memory category automatically detects
the amount of memory installed above the amount in the
System Memory category. Because the BIOS automatically calculates the amount of memory installed in your
system, you cannot change this category without adding
or removing memory.
M6DPi System Board Manual
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Chapter 4: The BIOS Setup Utility
Figure 4-3: IDE Device Submenu
Type
This category selects the drive type installed in the
system. The options are Auto (default), 1-39, User and
None. If Autotype Fixed Disk does not find your drive’s
parameters, fill this information in manually under the
User category. This information may be in the manual
which came with your system. If not, contact your dealer
or the hard drive manufacturer to fill in this category. If
you are using a SCSI hard drive, select None and refer to
the documentation which came with the SCSI adapter.
Multiple-Sector Transfers
This category determines the number of sectors per
block for multiple sector transfers. The options are Auto
(default), Disabled, 2 Sectors, 4 Sectors, 6 Sectors, 8
Sectors and 16 Sectors.
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M6DPi System Board Manual
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Chapter 4: The BIOS Setup Utility
LBA Transfer Mode
Enabling this selection causes LBA (Logical Block Addressing) to be used in place of Cylinders, Heads and
Sectors. The default setting is Enabled.
32-Bit I/O
This category allows you to enable the 32-bit I/O function
of the PCI IDE controller. Select Disabled if your drive
will not run at this speed. The default setting is Disabled.
Transfer Mode
This category sets the transfer speeds for IDE devices.
The Standard option is the default setting. The Fast PIO
1, Fast PIO 2, Fast PIO 3 and Fast PIO 4 options are for
higher speed devices.
Smart Monitoring
This feature will monitor your hard drive and report any
problems detected. This option is automatically detected
based on the hard drive's ability to support it. This setting
cannot be changed.
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Chapter 4: The BIOS Setup Utility
Setting the Advanced Screen
To move to the Advanced screen, use the left and right
arrow keys <←/→> keys until you see the screen below.
Figure 4-4: Advanced Screen
Serial Port A
Serial Port A may be configured using the following
options: Disabled (No configuration), Enabled (User
configuration), Auto (BIOS configuration) and PnP
O/S (O/S configuration).
Serial Port B
Serial Port B may be configured using the following
options: Disabled (No configuration), Enabled (User
configuration), Auto (BIOS configuration) and PnP
O/S (O/S configuration).
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Chapter 4: The BIOS Setup Utility
Parallel Port
The parallel port may be configured using the following
options: Disabled (No configuration), Enabled (User
configuration), Auto (BIOS configuration) and PnP
O/S (O/S configuration).
Floppy Disk Controller
The selection allows you to enable or disable the floppy
disk controller.
Integrated PCI IDE
Enables or disables the integrated Local Bus IDE adapter.
The IDE controller may be set for Primary (default) or
Disabled.
Use MP Specs
Select the Multiprocessor specification. The default setting is 1.1.
Plug & Play O/S
This selection, when set to Yes, allows the system to work
with a Plug and Play operating system such as Windows
95. The default setting is No. NOTE: This selection
should be set to No when using Windows 3.1 or Windows
NT.
Reset Configuration Data
Select Yes if you want to clear the system configuration
data. The default setting is No.
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Chapter 4: The BIOS Setup Utility
PCI Configuration
Use this selection for additional setup menus to configure
PCI devices. It's also useful to check whether or not
various IRQ's are available for PCI devices or if they are
reserved for legacy ISA devices.
PS/2 Mouse
When disabled, this selection prevents the PS/2 mouse
from functioning. Selecting Enabled (default) allows the
operating system to determine whether to enable or
disable the mouse.
Secured Setup Configuration
Select Yes if you want the system settings to be secured
from change by a Plug and Play operating system. The
default setting is No.
Large Disk Access Mode
If you are using a Microsoft
TM
operating system (MSDOS, Windows, NT) or any other form of DOS (Novell
DOS or PC-DOS), set to DOS (default). If you are using
other operating systems such as OS/2 or Unix, set to
Other.
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Chapter 4: The BIOS Setup Utility
Security Screen
The Security screen controls access to the computer. The
security screen allows for settings of two passwords. The
Supervisor Password allows access to the system and
Setup. The User Password allows access to the system, but
not to all Setup features.
Figure 4-5: Security Setup Screen
Set Supervisor Password
This selection controls access to the Setup utility. Press
the ENTER key to enter the Supervisor Password
submenu. The screen on the following page appears.
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Chapter 4: The BIOS Setup Utility
Figure 4-6: Supervisor Pass word Submenu
Type the password and press the ENTER key. Retype
the password and press the ENTER key again. Write
down the password somewhere safe so it will not be
forgotten. The password may be disabled by setting the
new password to nothing (pressing the ENTER key
without first typing a password).
WARNING: If you forget the Supervisor Password, it
cannot be disabled without discharging the CMOS.
Set User Password
This selection controls access to the Setup utility.
Follow the same procedure used to set the Supervisor
Password.
NOTE: After a password is entered, it is saved immediately. All other changes may still be discarded (see Exit
Screen).
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Chapter 4: The BIOS Setup Utility
Password on Boot
When enabled, the system requires a password upon
power up. Either the Supervisor or User Password may
be entered.
Fixed Disk Boot Sector
This selection allows the boot sector of the fixed disk to
be write protected. The default setting is Normal. When
set for Write Protected, it serves as a form of virus
protection. If the passwords are enabled, this option
may only be changed by the supervisor.
Diskette Access
This selection allows floppy disk access with an option of
the supervisor or user. Selecting Supervisor (default)
gives floppy disk access to the supervisor only. Selecting
User gives floppy disk access to both the user and the
supervisor. If the passwords are enabled, this option may
only be changed by the supervisor.
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Chapter 4: The BIOS Setup Utility
Power Screen
The Power screen controls the power management functions of the system. To move to the Power screen, use the
left and right arrow <←/→> keys until it appears. To
move between the categories, use the up and down arrow
keys <↑/↓>.
Figure 4-7: P ower Screen
Power Management
This selection allows you to change the system power
management settings. Maximum Power Savings conserves the greatest amount of system power. Maximum
Performance conserves power but allows greatest system
performance. To alter these settings, choose Customize.
To turn off power management, choose Disabled (default).
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Chapter 4: The BIOS Setup Utility
Standby Time-out
The Standby Time-out selection sets the amount of time
that elapses for the system to enter Standby Mode.
Standby Mode turns off various devices in the system,
including the display screen, until you start using the
system again. The options are Off (default), 1 min., 2
min., 4 min., 6 min., 8 min., 12 min. or 16 min.
Auto Suspend Time-out
The Standby Time-out selection sets the amount of time
that elapses for the system to enter Suspend Mode. The
options are Off (default), 5 min., 10 min., 15 min., 20
min., 30 min., 40 min. or 60 min. Before making changes,
"Customized" must be selected in the Power Management Mode selection.
Hard Disk Time-out
This selection sets the amount of time that elapses before
the IDE drive enters spin-down mode to conserve power.
The options are Disabled (default), 2 min., 4 min., 6
min., or 8 min., 10 min. and 15 min. Before making
changes, "Customized" must be selected in the Power
Management Mode selection. NOTE: Do not enable this
selection unless your IDE drive supports spin-down mode.
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Chapter 4: The BIOS Setup Utility
Boot Screen
The Boot screen allows you to configure the power up
system configuration settings.
Figure 4-8: Boot Screen
Boot Device Priority
This feature will set the search order for the types of
bootable devices.
Hard Drive
The system will attempt to boot to the operating system
from the first hard drive listed. If no operating system is
found, the system will attempt to boot from the next
drive listed until an operating system is found.
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Chapter 4: The BIOS Setup Utility
Exit Screen
After you complete configuring the BIOS, select the Exit
screen.
Figure 4-9: Exit Screen
Choose “Save Changes and Exit” and reboot the computer. Your computer is ready for use.
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Chapter 4: The BIOS Setup Utility
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Chapter 5: Installing Device Drivers
Chapter
5
Installing Device Drivers
This chapter explains how to install the software device
drivers and utilities necessary to utilize the optional
graphics and Fast/ Wide SCSI support. Other drivers and
utilities are available through our online services.
About Device Drivers
Device drivers are necessary for the computer system to
communicate with devices such as CD-ROM drives,
sound controllers, graphics adapters or devices that are
not natively supported by the system BIOS. Once started,
device drivers remain active in the background of the
computer system. Usually a device driver is added to the
CONFIG.SYS file, the AUTOEXEC.BAT file or both.
Installing the Graphics Drivers
Windows 95
1.Start Microsoft Windows 95. The New Hardware
Found screen appears.
2.Insert the M6DPi Drivers and Utilities disk into your
floppy drive.
3.From the New Hardware Found screen, select the
Driver From Disk Provided by Hardware Manufacturer option. Click on Next.
4.Type in the driver location: A:\ (where A is the
floppy drive letter). Click on OK.
5.Windows 95 copies the M6DPi video drivers and
utilities to your hard drive.
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Chapter 5: Installing Device Drivers
Windows NT
1.Boot Windows NT in VGA mode.
2.From the Main group, double-click on Control Panel,
then double-click on Display.
3.Select Change Display Type.
4.From the Change Display Type screen, select Change
for the adapter type.
5.Select the Other button.
6.Insert the M6DPi Drivers and Utilities disk into your
floppy drive. Click on OK.
7.Click on the Install button.
8.Click on Yes to install the driver.
9.When the Windows NT Setup dialog box appears,
select drive A:\, then click on Continue.
10. When a message appears stating that the drivers
were successfully installed, click on OK.
11. Restart your computer for the changes to take effect.
Installing the SCSI Drivers
Refer to the "Adaptec 7800 Family Manager Set User's
Guide" for information on installing and configuring
drivers for your operating system.
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Appendix A: Technical Information
Appendix
A
Specifications
Part Number:09-00285
Processor:Dual ZIF Socket 8
Intel Pentium Pro 150-200MHz
Two VRM headers to supply CPUspecific voltages.
CPU Clock Select: Support for 60 and 66MHz CPU bus
speeds.
Form Factor:Full AT form factor (12"x 13.8")
Expansion:Seven 32-bit PCI slots
Two 16-bit ISA slots
One is a shared PCI/ISA slot
One RAID Port (ARO 1130)
attached to PCI slot.
BIOS:Phoenix 4.0X Plug and Play BIOS on
2MB Flash.
Auto-detection of memory size.
Auto-detection and display of ECC
and EDO memory.
Auto-configuration of IDE hard disk
types.
PCI auto-configuration
Soft Power Down
DMI/SMI
Multi-boot
I/O Ports:Two high speed serial ports (16550 compatible)
Enhanced Parallel Port with ECP and EPP
support.
IrDA compliant IR header
Two USB headers
Floppy Port:Auto-detection and support of two floppy drives
(2.88MB, 1.44MB, 1.2MB, 720K, 360K).
PCI IDE:One 40-pin IDE connectors
(Primary IDE).
Multiple sector transfer support
Auto detection of add-in IDE board
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Appendix A: Technical Information
Environmental Specifications
The environment in which the M6DPi is located is critical.
Make sure the finished computer system is in an area with
good ventilation. The system should not be in direct sunlight, near heaters, or exposed to moisture, dust or dirt.
Micronics recommends the following environmental specifications:
Temperature Range
Operating: 50 to 104 degrees Fahrenheit (10 to 40 degrees
Celsius).
Non -Operating: 50 to 140 degrees Fahrenheit (10 to 60
degrees Celsius).
Shipping: -22 to 140 degrees Fahrenheit (-30 to 60 degrees
Celsius).
Relative Humidity
Operating: 20% to 80%.
Non-Operating: 5% to 90%.
Power Supply Specifications
The M6DPi requires a 3.3Volt AT power supply. You can
purchase this power supply from most computer vendors.
When purchasing this power supply, ask for a (Split Voltage) 3.3 volt AT power supply with the traditional AT
connectors to the system board.
This power supply will have the traditional P8 and P9 for
standard AT sources and P10 and P11 for the 3.3 volt
source. Make sure the power supply also has a +5 volt
Standby Power and Soft Power connection (P13), which is
the ATX standard. In addition, it would be advisable to
request an extra +5 volt source for P12.
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Appendix A: Technical Information
Battery Disposal
WARNING:
Please do not open battery, dispose of in fire, recharge, put in
backwards or mix with used or other battery types. The battery
may explode or leak and cause personal injury.
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Appendix A: Technical Information
Support and Information Services
Micronics offers a variety of support and information services to help you get the most from your product. The
following services are available:
▲ Technical Support
▲ Electronic Bulletin Board Service (BBS)
▲ Return Materials Authorization (RMA)
▲ Fax-On-Demand
▲ World Wide Web
▲ Customer Service
Refer to Table A-1 for details on these services.
Technical Support
If you need technical assistance, our Technical Support
Engineers will be glad to help you. You can contact us via
telephone, fax or BBS. Before calling Technical Support
please have the following information ready:
❏ The model name and 09 part number of your Micronics
product.
❏ Your computer information such as CPU type, operat-
ing system, amount of installed memory and other
peripherals installed in your computer.
❏ Try to call from the location of your computer.
NOTE: For Return Material Authorization purposes, please
keep a copy of your product receipt.
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Appendix A: Technical Information
ServiceHoursCountryTelephone Number
Technical Support - Live phone help
from Technical Support Engineers
Electronic Bulletin Board Service
(BBS) - Information on software
upgrades, new releases and other
helpful information
RMA (Return Materials
Authorization) - Return products for
repair
Fax-On-Demand - Automated
system for product literature,
technical bulletins and other helpful
information
World Wide Web - Product
information, technical support, press
releases and other helpful
information
Customer Service - Order Micronics
and Orchid products
M-F: 7:00am to
5:00pm (PST)
24 hours a day
7 days a week
M-F: 8:00am to
4:45pm (PST)
24 hours a day
7 days a week
24 hours a day
7 days a week
M-F: 8:00am to
5:00pm (PST)
USA
(510) 661-3000
(510) 651-6982 (Fax)
France
"
"
Europe
France
Germany
Taiwan
+33 (1) 45 43 56 26
+33 (1) 45 43 17 78 (Fax)
UK
+44 (1256) 844899
+44 (1256) 364222 (Fax)
USAUK(510) 651-6837
14400 baud rate, Parity=N,
Data Bits=8, Stop Bits=1
YMODEM and ZMODEM
(recommended file transfer
protocols)
+44 (1256) 363373
The following table lists the Power On Self Test (POST)
messages, possible causes and solutions.
MessagePossible CauseSolution
DISKETTE DRIVE A
FAILURE
DISKETTE DRIVE B
FAILURE
EXTENDED RAM
FAILED AT
OFFSET: nnnn
FAILING BITS: nnnn
FIXED DISK X
FAILURE (where X
=0 or 1)
FIXED DISK
CONTROLLER
FAILURE
INCORRECT DRIVE
A TYPE
INCORRECT DRIVE
B TYPE
INVALID NVRAM
MEDIA TYPE
KEYBOARD
ERROR, or
KEYBOARD
CONTROLLER
ERROR
KEYBOARD
ERROR nn
KEYBOARD
LOCKED
Drive A failed or is
missing.
Drive B failed or is
missing.
Extended memory not
working or configured
properly.
Memory failure in
System, Extended, or
Shadow memory.
The hard disk is not
configured or working
properly.
The controller card has
failed.
Floppy drive A: not set
correctly in Setup.
Floppy drive A: not set
correctly in Setup.
NVRAM chip is bad.Requires repair of system
The keyboard or
keyboard controller
failed.
A key is jammed or was
held down during boot.
Keyswitch on the front of
the case is locked.
Check Setup and cable
connections.
Check Setup and cable
connections.
Replace defective
memory.
Replace defective
memory.
Rerun SETUP and check
connections , or rep lace
hard disk.
Check configuration and
connections , or rep lace
controller card.
Run Setup.
Run Setup.
board.
Check connections. You
may have to replace the
keyboard or controller.
Make sure the keys are
not jammed or dirty.
Unlock the keyswitch.
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Appendix B: Post Messages
MessagePossible CauseSolution
MONITOR TYPE
DOES NOT MATCH
CMOS
OPERATING
SYSTEM NOT
FOUND
PARITY CHECK 1
nnnn
PARITY CHECK 2
nnnn
PREVIOUS BOOT
INCOMPLETE DEFAULT
CONFIGURATION
USED
REAL TIME CLOCK
ERROR
SHADOW RAM
FAILED AT OF F SET
SYSTEM BATT ERY
IS DEAD
SYSTEM CACHE
ERROR - CACHE
DISABLED
SYSTEM CMOS
CHECKSUM BAD RUN SETUP
SYSTEM RAM
FAILED AT
OFFSET: nnnn
SYSTEM TIMER
ERROR
Monitor type not
correctly ident ified in
Setup.
Operating system
cannot be located on
Drive C: or Drive A:
Parity error found in the
system bus.
Parity error found in the
I/O bus.
Previous POST did not
complete successfully.
Real-time clock failed
BIOS test .
Shadow RAM faile d.May require repair of
System battery died.Replace the system
External (L2) c ache
failed BIOS test.
System CMOS has been
corrupted or modified
incorrectly.
System RAM failed.Replace defective RAM.
Timer test fail ed.Requires repair of system
Run Setup and ent er
correct monitor type.
Check Setup to see if
Drive A: and C: are
properly configured, or
put a bootable disk in
Drive A:
Check Setup. B oard
repair may be required.
Check Setup. B oard
repair may be required.
Run Setup, load default
BIOS settings, make any
necessary adjustments,
and save the changes
May require battery
replacement or board
repair.
system board.
battery and run Setup to
reconfigure t he s ystem.
System will still run, but
slower. Replac e cache
at convenience.
Run Setup and
reconfigure t he s ystem.
board.
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Appendix C: Beep and Post Codes
Appendix
C
Beep and POST Codes
Beep codes are a series of beeps sent through the speaker
which indicate a problem during the Power On Self Test
(POST). If text appears on the video screen, the M6DPi
has completed POST; any other tone from the speaker
indicates something other than a POST error. These
tones are not described in the tables on the following
pages.
The beep error codes are a series of beeps. The duration
of the beep tones are constant, but the length of the
pauses between the beeps varies. For example: a 1-3-3
beep code will sound like one beep, a pause; three beeps
consecutively, another pause and then three more beeps.
One beep code is often misunderstood. If a video card is
not installed or is failing, the system board will generate
a long-short-long-short beep code. This is often interpreted as a 1-2-1 beep code. But POST errors always
vary in the length of the pause and not the duration of
the beep tone.
Another way of identifying a POST error is to use a
device called a POST card. This peripheral card is
inserted into one of the ISA slots and has an LED (or
LCD) read out showing the contents of port 80h.
The following tables list all beep codes and POST
routines.
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Appendix C: Beep and Post Codes
CodeBeepsPOST Routine Description
02Verify Real Mode.
04Get CPU type.
06Initialize system hardware.
08Initialize chipset regist ers w ith initial POST values.
09Get in POST Reg.
0AInitialize CPU registers.
0CInitialize cache initial POST values.
OEInitialize I/O.
OFInitialize the localbus IDE.
10Initialize Power Management.
11Load alternate r egisters wi th initial POST value s .
12Ju mp to UserPatch0.
14Initialize keyboard c ontroller.
162-2-3BIOS ROM checksum.
188254 timer initialization.
1A8237 DMA controller i nitialization.
1CReset Programma bl e Interru pt Controller.
203-1-1Test DRAM refres h .
223-1-3Test 8742 Keyboard Co ntroller .
24Set ES segment register to 4 GB.
28Autosize DRAM.
2AClear 51 2K base RAM.
2C3-4-1Test 512K base addre s s li nes.
2E3-4-3Test 512K base memory.
32Test CPU bus-clock frequency.
34Test CMOS RAM.
35Initialize alternate chip s et regis te rs .
37Reinitialize the chips et (MB only).
38Shadow system BIOS ROM.
39Reinitialize the cach e (MB only).
3AAutosize cache.
3CConfigure advance d c hipset regi s ters.
3DLoad alternate r egisters wi th CMOS valu es .
40Set initial CPU speed.
42Initialize interrupt vectors.
44Initialize BIOS interrupts.
462-1-2- 3Check ROM copyright notice.
47Initialize manager for PCI Option ROMs.
48Check video c onfiguration agains t CMO S.
49Initialize PCI bus and devices.
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Appendix C: Beep and Post Codes
CodeBeepsPOST Routine Description
4AInitialize all video adapters in system.
4CShadow video BIOS ROM.
4EDisplay copyright notice.
50Display CPU type and speed.
51Initialize EISA board.
52Tes t keyboard.
54Set key click if enabled.
56Enable keyboard.
582-2-3-1Test for unexpected interrupts.
5ADisplay prompt “Press F2 to enter SETUP”.
5CTest RAM between 512 and 640k.
60Test extended memory.
62Test extended memory address lines.
64Jump to UserPatch1.
66Configure advanced cache registers.
68Enable external and CPU caches.
6ADisplay external cache size.
6CDisplay shadow message.
6EDisplay non-disposable segments.
70Display error messages.
72Check for configuration errors.
74Tes t real-time clock.
76Check for keyboard errors.
7CSet up hardware interrupt vectors.
7ETest coprocessor if present.
80Disable onboard I/O ports.
82Detect and install external RS232 ports.
84Detect and install external parallel ports.
86Re-initialize on-board I/O ports.
88Initialize BIOSData Area.
8AInitialize Extended BIOS Data Area.
8CInitialize floppy controller.
90Initialize hard-disk controller.
91Initialize localbus hard-disk controller.
92Jump to UserPatch2.
93Build MPTABLE for multi-processor boards.
94Disable A20 address line.
96Clear huge ES segment register.
98Search for option ROMs.
9AShadow option ROMs.
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Appendix C: Beep and Post Codes
CodeBeepsPOST Routine Description
9CSet up Power Management.
9EEnable hardware interrupts.
A0Set time of day.
A2Check key lock.
A4Initialize typematic rate.
A8Erase F2 prompt.
AAScan for F2 keystroke.
ACEnter SETUP.
AEClear in-POST flag.
B0Check for errors.
B2POST done - prepare to boot operati ng system .
B4One beep.
B6Check password (optional) .
B8Clear global descriptor table.
BCClear parity checkers.
BEClear screen (optional).
BFCheck virus and backup reminders.
C0Try to boot with INT 19.
D0Interrupt handler error.
D2Unknown interrupt error.
D4Pending Interrupt.
D6Initialize option ROM error.
D8Shutdown error.
DAExtended Block Move.
DCShutdown 10 error.
The following are for boot bl ock in Flas h ROM:
E2Initialize the chipset.
E3Initialize refresh counter.
E4Check for Forced Flash.
E5Check HW status of ROM.
E6BIOS ROM is OK.
E7Do a complete RAM test.
E8Do OEM initialization .
E9Initialize interru pt controller.
EARead in the bootstrap code.
EBInitialize all vectors.
ECBoot the Flash program.
EDInitialize the boot device.
EEBoot code was read OK.
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Appendix D: Hard Disk Drive Types
Appendix
D
Hard Disk Drive Types
The following table lists the IDE hard disk types supported by the M6DPi.
If you
encounter
any
problems
during this
process, or
if you have
questions
about the
procedure,
please call
Technical
Support.
Updating the System BIOS
The Micronics system boards are designed so that the
BIOS can be reprogrammed using a BIOS file. You can
easily FLASH a BIOS by following the steps below:
1) After downloading the appropriate BIOS file from
our BBS or Website, extract it to a bootable MSDOS 6.X diskette.
2) Reboot your system with the MS-DOS 6.X diskette
in the A: drive. To make sure a clean DOS environment is loaded, press the F5 key while “Starting MSDOS” is displayed. After the system has rebooted,
the cursor will appear at the A:> prompt.
3) Now you can run the FLASH utility. The filename
should be “PHLASH.EXE.” Type this filename at
the A:> prompt (but don’t include its extension),
followed by a space and the BIOS ROM image’s
filename. This file will be included in the download
and has a file length of about 131K or 262K. For
example, to update the M6DPi to BIOS version 01,
you would type:
PHLASH M6DPi_01.ROM [ENTER]
4) After the update process has completed and the
system reboots, verify that the new BIOS version
appears on-screen. If you have problems during this
process, or if you have questions about the procedure, please call Technical Support.
NOTE: If you prefer to send your system board in for the
upgrade, the Micronics RMA department offers this
service free of charge if your system board is under
warranty.
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Appendix E: Updating the System BIOS
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Appendix F: Warranties and Notices
Appendix
F
Limited Warranty
Except as described below, Micronics warrants the products to be free from defects in material and workmanship
in normal use for a period of one (1) year from date of
purchase. Should any product fail to perform according
to this warranty at any time during the warranty period,
except as provided below, Micronics or its authorized
service centers will, at Micronics’ option, repair or replace the product at no additional charge.
The warranty does not cover loss or damage which occurs
in shipment or which is due to: (1) improper installation
or maintenance, misuse, neglect or any cause other than
ordinary commercial application, including without limitation, accidents or acts of God; (2) adjustment, repair,
or modification by other than a Micronics authorized
service center; (3) improper environment, excessive or
inadequate heating or air conditioning, or electrical
power failures, surges or other irregularities; (4) any
statement about the product other than those set forth in
this warranty; or (5) nonconformity to models or samples
shown to the purchaser. Any models or samples were for
the sole purpose of suggesting the character of the
product and are not intended to form the basis of the
bargain.
A receipt or copy of the invoice with the date of purchase
from a Micronics reseller is required before any warranty
service can be rendered. Service can be obtained by
calling Micronics for a Return Merchandise Authorization (RMA) Number.
The RMA Number should be prominently displayed on
the outside of the shipping carton of the returned product. Returned product should be shipped prepaid or hand
carried to Micronics. The purchaser assumes risk of loss
or damage in transit, and unless otherwise agreed to in
writing by Micronics, will pay inbound shipping charges.
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Appendix F: Warranties and Notices
The exclusive remedy of the purchaser under this warranty above will be repair or replace at Micronics’ option,
but if for any reason that remedy should fail of its essential
purpose, the exclusive remedy of the purchaser shall then
be actual damages up to amounts paid for the defective
product by the purchaser. This limited warranty shall be
deemed to “fail of its essential purpose” if, after repeated
efforts, Micronics is unable to make the product operate
as warranted. Micronics’ liability for damages to the
purchaser for any cause whatsoever; regardless of the
form of action and whether in contract or in tort, shall be
limited to the purchase price in effect when the cause of
action arose for the product that is the basis of the claim.
Micronics will not be liable for any lost profits or any
indirect, special incidental or consequential damages in
connection with the product, even if Micronics has been
advised of the possibility of such damages.
Micronics makes no warranties or representations as to
performance of products or as to service to distributor or
to any person, except as set forth in Micronics; limited
warranty accompanying delivery of product.
Micronics disclaims all other warranties whether oral,
written, expressed, or implied, including without limitation, the warranties of design, merchantability, or fitness
for a particular purpose, if applicable, or arising from a
course of dealing, usage or trade practice.
Non-Warranty Service
After the one year warranty service is no longer in effect,
repair service is still available for Micronics products. For
more information, contact Micronics’ RMA department
at (510) 661-3030. The RMA department is open between 8:30 A.M. and 4:45P.M. Pacific Standard Time.
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Appendix F: Warranties and Notices
FCC Statement
This equipment has been tested and found to comply
within the limits for a Class B digital device, pursuant to
Part 15 of the FCC Rules. These limits are designed to
provide reasonable protection against harmful interference in a residential installation. This equipment generates, uses and can radiate radio frequency energy and, if
not used in accordance with the instructions, may cause
harmful interference to radio communications. Interference to radio or television reception can be determined
by turning the equipment off and on. You are encouraged
to try to correct the interference by one or more of the
following measures:
▲Reorient the receiving antenna.
▲Increase the separation between the equipment
and the receiver.
▲Connect the equipment into an outlet on a circuit
different from that to which the receiver is connected.
▲Consult your dealer or an experienced radio/TV
technician for help.
To meet FCC requirements, shielded cables are required.
NOTE: Changes or modifications not expressly approved by
Micronics could void your authority to operate the equipment.
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Glossary
Glossary
16550 UART - A high speed chip for
controlling serial ports. Although unnecessary for a mouse, it is required
for modems that are 14,400 baud or
faster.
ATX - A system board size measuring
approximately 12” x 9.6”.
Asynchronous - Operations that do
not require the clocks of communicating devices to be coordinated. See
Synchronous.
Bidirectional Parallel Port - A type of
parallel port that can send and receive
information.
BIOS - An Acronym for Basic Input/
Output System. Configures the system board and provides hardware information to the operating system.
Bit - A contraction of Binary digit.
The smallest unit of information in a
binary number system. A bit represents a choice between either zero or
one.
Boot - To start up the computer and
load the operating system software.
See cold boot and warm boot.
Byte - A group of adjacent bits treated
as a unit. Eight bits are typically considered one byte. Also called a character.
Cache - A process where information
is copied from the slower memory
(DRAM) to the faster memory
(SRAM). Information that is likely to
be read or edited is stored in the cache
providing significant performance increases.
Cache Hit - The percentage of request for data from memory that can
be served from the cache.
Cache Miss - A memory access which
cannot be supplied from cache.
Cold Boot - Starting the computer by
turning on the power or pressing the
RESET button. A cold boot makes the
processor execute all of the diagnostics. See boot and warm boot.
CPU - An acronym for Central Processing Unit. A CPU performs arithmetic calculations, makes logical decisions, and directs the operation of
the computer in conjunction with the
operating system.
Bus - A group of electronic paths used
to send data between parts of the system. On a system board, the bus connects the peripheral cards with the
microprocessor via the expansion
slots.
Bus Mastering - The ability of an peripheral card to control the bus without requiring intervention of the CPU.
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DIMM - An acronym for Dual Inline
Memory Module. A small printed circuit board containing memory chips.
Disk Drive - A hardware device
which provides for the storage of data
on diskettes or hard metal disks that
have a magnetic coating. A disk drive
functions by spinning at high speed
while moving a device called the read/
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Glossary
write head across the disk’s surface in
order to read or write data in magnetic code.
DRAM - An acronym for Dynamic
Random Access Memory. A type of
memory chip that only keeps its
memory if supplied with regular clock
pulses and a chance to regularly refresh its data. It is slower and more
cost effective than SRAM. See
SRAM.
ECC - An acronym for Error Checking and Correction. ECC enables parity checking and can detect and correct memory errors on the system
board.
ECP - An acronym for Expanded Capabilities Port. A standard set by
Hewlett Packard and Microsoft Corporation to expand the capabilities of
the parallel port.
EDO Memory - An acronym for Extended Data Out. A type of DRAM
with built-in cache for enhanced performance.
EISA - An acronym for Extended Industry Standard Architecture. EISA
is a bus design standard which is fully
backward compatible with the ISA
bus. Although it is a 32-bit bus, it only
runs at 8MHz. See PCI, VESA Local
Bus and ISA.
type of ROM chip that can be programmed with relatively simple tools
that will retain its data until erased. It
can only be erased by exposing the circuitry in the chip to ultraviolet light.
See also Flash ROM.
Fast SCSI - A SCSI data transfer rate
standard that allows a rate of up to 10
MBytes/sec on an 8-bit SCSI bus and
up to 20 MBytes/sec on a 16-bit
(Wide) SCSI bus.
Flash ROM - A type of ROM chip
that will retain its data until erased. It
can be erased or reprogrammed by
supplying it with +12V of voltage. See
ROM and EPROM.
Gigabyte - A disk storage capacity
measurement. Approximately one
thousand megabytes or 1,073,741,824
bytes.
IDE - An acronym for Integrated Device Electronics. A standard for communicating between a hard drive and
a computer.
Internal Cache - Cache which is built
into the CPU. See Cache.
ISA - An acronym for Industry Standard Architecture. A well-established
bus standard that originated with the
IBM AT. See PCI, VESA Local Bus
and EISA.
EPP - An acronym for Enhanced Parallel Port. A standard which increases
the capabilities of the parallel port.
EPROM - Acronym for Erasable Programmable Read Only Memory. A
M6DPi System Board Manual
Parallel - A form of data transmission
in which the data is sent one byte at a
time over several wires that each carry
one byte. In parallel transmission, all
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Glossary
the bytes arrive simultaneously, as opposed to serial transmission in which
bits arrive one by one.
Parallel Port - A connection for a
printer or similar peripheral. Generally, parallel ports are output only. See
Bidirectional Parallel Port and ECP.
PCI - An acronym for Peripheral
Component Interconnect. A high performance 32-bit or 64-bit bus developed by Intel Corporation. PCI is designed to be independent of the hardware architecture to ensure compatibility with future computer systems.
See EISA, VESA Local Bus and ISA.
Pentium - A high performance 64-bit
CISC processor designed and manufactured by Intel Corporation.
Plug and Play - A standard developed
to ensure easy installation of peripherals. Theoretically, a newly installed
card will automatically configure itself
and work properly without requiring
jumper configuration or device drivers.
POST - An acronym for Power On
Self Test. A diagnostic program that
is run whenever the system is cold
booted.
ROM - An acronym for Read Only
Memory. A type of memory that retains its data without requiring power.
Once written, it cannot be modified.
See EPROM and Flash ROM.
SCSI - Small computer system interface. A bus interface standard that
defines physical and electrical characteristics for hardware devices. SCSI
provides a standard interface that enables many different kinds of devices,
such as disk drives and CD-ROM
drives to interface with the host computer.
Serial - A type of data transmission
in which the data is sent one bit at a
time over a single wire. See Parallel.
Serial Port - A communications port
used to connect peripherals such as
modems and mice.
Setup - A program that allows you to
make changes to the system configuration.
Shadow RAM - A technique used to
load a duplicate copy of BIOS from
slower ROM into faster RAM. This
enhances system performance because it provides higher access speed
to the BIOS.
RAM - An acronym for Random Access Memory. A type of memory that
is used as the “working memory” of a
computer system. See DRAM and
SRAM.
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SIMM - An acronym for Standard
Inline Memory Module. A small
printed circuit board containing
memory chips.
Small Computer System Interface See SCSI.
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Glossary
SRAM - An acronym for Static Random Access Memory. A type of
memory that can retain data without
requiring a regular clock signal. Although they are faster than DRAM,
they hold less data and are more expensive.
Synchronous - Protocols that require
the clocks of communicating machines or devices to be coordinated.
Synchronous Cache - A type of cache
that uses a clock signal to latch the
inputs and the data output. This structure spreads the cache access across
two or three cycles while maintaining
a bandwidth of one access per cycle.
Improves performance by 5-10%.
Terabyte - A measurement for very
large storage capacity. One Terabyte
is equivalent one-thousand gigabytes,
one-million megabytes, or
1,099,511,627,766 bytes.
Unbuffered DIMMs - The unbuffered
DIMM modules do not use any buffer
logic chips, thus achieving faster operation due to the elimination of the
propagation delay of the logic buffer.
This increase in speed comes at the
cost of reducing the maximum number of modules on the same system
board.
operates at the speed of the
computer’s CPU. See PCI, EISA and
ISA.
VRM - Voltage Regulator Module.
Supplies CPU specific voltages for the
Secondary CPU.
Warm Boot - Restarting the system
by simultaneously pressing the
<Ctrl>, <Alt> and <Delete> keys.
Wide SCSI - A SCSI-2 enhancement
that allows data to be transferred 16
or 32 bits at a time on the SCSI bus
instead of 8 bits at a time.
Write-Back Cache - Upon a cache
hit, the cache is updated and the main
memory is not affected. Upon a cache
miss, only the main memory is updated.
Write-Through Cache - Upon a
cache hit, the cache and the main
memory are updated. Upon a cache
miss, only the main memory is updated.
VESA - An acronym for Video Electronics and Standards Association.
VESA Local Bus (VL-Bus) - A high
performance bus designed by VESA.
A 32-bit version of the ISA bus which
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Index
Index
A
AT
Chassis - 18
Form Factor - 53
Power Supply - 55
B
Battery Disposal - 56
Beep and POST Codes - 61
BIOS
Configuration - 33
Setup - 33
Updating - 67
Bulletin Board System (BBS) - 58
76
C
Configuring the M6DPi - 11
Connecting
Graphics Option - 30
SCSI Option - 31
D
Diagram (M6DPi) - 12
E
Extended Data Out (EDO) Memory - 17, 19
Environmental Specifications - 55