Mitsubishi Electric apricot ft Owner's Manual

Apricot
FT SERIES
Owner’s Handbook
COMPACT
APRICOT FT S
with Pentium® processor
ERIES
OWNER’S HANDBOOK
Intel and Pentium® are registered trademarks of Intel Corporation. Microsoft, MS-DOS, Windows®95 and Windows®NT are registered trademarks
of Microsoft Corporation in the US and other countries. Other trademarks mentioned within this document and not listed above are the
properties of their respective owners. Information contained in this document is subject to change without notice and
does not represent a commitment on the part of Apricot Computers Limited. Any software described in this manual is furnished under a license agreement. The software may be used or copied only in accordance with the terms of this agreement. It is against the law to copy any disk supplied for any purpose other than the purchaser’s personal use.
No part of this manual may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means electronic or mechanical including photocopying and recording, for any purpose, without the express written permission of the publishers.
Copyright © Apricot Computers Limited 1997. All rights reserved. Published by:
Apricot Computers Limited 3500 Parkside Birmingham Business Park Birmingham, England B37 7YS
http://www.misubishi-computers.com
Printed in the United Kingdom

CONTENTS

Safety and Regulatory notices
General i Maintenance and Transporting iii Standards and Legalities iv
Power connection
1 Welcome
Unpacking 1/1 Pictorial guide to the system unit 1/2 Removing panels 1/4 General advice 1/7 Connecting the components 1/7
2 Getting Started
Turning on the PC 2/1 Power saving 2/2 Shutting down the PC 2/4 Using the computer for the first time 2/5
Electronic Fingerprinting
Backing-up the pre-installed software 2/7 Improving your display settings 2/7 If your hard disk is larger than 2 gigabytes 2/8
v
2/6
3 Removable media drives
Diskette drive 3/1 CD-ROM drive 3/3 DAT tape drive (option) 3/5
OWNER’S HANDBOOK i
Contents
4 Expansion Cards
Configuring the card 4/2 Installing the card 4/5 Reserving ISA legacy resources 4/7 Telling Windows about the new hardware 4/7
5 Motherboard Features & Upgrades
Motherboard layout and features 5/2 Motherboard jumper settings 5/3 Motherboard IRQs and DMA channels 5/6 Adding more memory 5/7 Adding more video memory 5/9 Upgrading the processor 5/10 Replacing the configuration battery 5/14
6 Drive upgrades
Configuring a Hard Disk Drive (HDD) 6/2 Partitioning and formatting the drive 6/4 Configuring the removable media drive 6/6
7 BIOS Setup & POST
BIOS Setup 7/2 Power-on self-test 7/4
8 Troubleshooting
Problems when starting 8/1 Common problems 8/3
Equipment Log
ii OWNER’S HANDBOOK

SAFETY AND REGULATORY NOTICES

General

Electrical
The computer uses a safety ground and must be earthed.
The system unit AC power cord is its ‘disconnect device’. Ensure that the system unit is positioned close to the AC power outlet and that the plug is easily accessible.
The power cord packed with the computer complies with the safety standards applicable in the country in which it is first sold. Use only this power cord. Do not substitute a power cord from any other equipment.
To prevent fire and electric shock, do not expose any part of the computer to rain or moisture. Turn off the computer and unplug all power cords before moving or cleaning the system unit, or removing the system unit top cover.
Battery
This product contains a lithium battery.
Do not use a metal or other conductive implement to remove the battery. If a short-circuit is made between its positive and negative terminals the battery may explode.
Replace a discharged battery with one of the same type; another type may explode or ignite. Follow the instructions contained in the Owner’s Handbook to replace the battery. Dispose of a discharged battery promptly and in accordance with the battery manufacturer’s recommended instructions. Do not recharge, disassemble or incinerate the discharged battery. Keep away from children.
Laser products
Any CD-ROM drive fitted in this system is classified as a CLASS 1 LASER PRODUCT according to IEC825 Radiation Safety of Laser Products (Equipment Classification: Requirements and User's Guide). The CLASS 1 LASER PRODUCT label is located on the underside of the system unit.
The CD-ROM drive contains a laser system which is harmful to the eyes if exposed. Do not attempt to disassemble the CD-ROM drive; if a fault occurs, call an authorised maintainer.
Use the CD-ROM drive only as described in this manual. Failure to do so may result in exposure to hazardous radiation.
i
SAFETY & REGULATORY NOTICES
Ergonomic
When positioning the system unit, monitor and keyboard, take into account any local or national regulations relating to ergonomic requirements.
Anti-static precautions
WARNING
Static electricity can cause permanent damage to electronic components. You should be aware of this risk, and take precautions against the discharge of static electricity into the computer.
The computer is at risk from static discharge while the top cover is off. This is because the electronic components of the motherboard are exposed. Memory modules, expansion cards and replacement processors are examples of electrostatic sensitive devices (ESSDs).
All work that involves removing the cover must be done in an area completely free of static electricity. We recommend using a Special Handling Area (SHA) as defined by EN 100015-1: 1992. This means that working surfaces, floor coverings and chairs must be connected to a common earth reference point, and you should wear an earthed wrist strap and anti-static clothing. It is also a good idea to use an ionizer or humidifier to remove static from the air.
When installing any upgrade, be sure you understand what the installation procedure involves before you start. This will enable you to plan your work, and so minimise the amount of time that sensitive components are exposed.
Do not remove the system unit cover, nor the anti-static bag or wrapping of any upgrade, until you need to.
Handle static-sensitive items with extreme care. Hold expansion cards and add-on components only by their edges, avoiding their electrical contacts. Never touch the components or electrical contacts on the motherboard or on expansion cards. In general, do not handle static-sensitive items unnecessarily.
Keep all conductive material, and food and drink, away from your work area and the open computer.
Thermalcote bonding compound
The thermal bonding compound used between the system processor and its heat sink can cause skin irritation and stain clothing. Avoid prolonged or repeated contact with skin. Wash thoroughly with soap and water after handling. Avoid contact with eyes and inhalation of fumes. Do not ingest.
ii

Maintenance

Transporting

SAFETY & REGULATORY NOTICES
Switch off and disconnect all cables before attempting to clean the computer.
Do not use sprays, solvents or abrasives that might damage the system unit surface. Do not use cleaning fluids or sprays near air vents, ports, or the diskette and CD-ROM drives.
Occasionally wipe the system unit with a soft, slightly damp, lint-free cloth.
Occasionally wipe over the air vents on the rear and sides of the system unit. Dust and fluff can block the vents and limit the airflow.
Occasionally clean the diskette and CD-ROM drives using a proprietary head cleaner.
Occasionally wipe the monitor with a soft, slightly damp, lint-free cloth. It is best to use anti-static glass cleaner on the monitor screen, but do not spray glass cleaner directly onto the screen; it could run down inside the case and damage the circuitry.
Use common sense when handling the computer; hard disks in particular can be damaged if the computer is dropped or handled roughly. As a precaution, back up the contents of the hard disks to tape or diskettes before moving the computer.
Switch off and disconnect all cables before attempting to move the computer, particularly do not try to move the computer while it is plugged into the AC power supply.
When lifting and carrying the computer, use the metal sides of the system unit and never attempt to lift the system unit with a monitor still on top.
If you need to transport the computer any great distance, use the original packing materials.
If you are planning to use the computer in another country, it may not be suitable, check with your supplier, particularly on the availability of the correct AC power cords.
NOTE
Any existing maintenance or warranty agreement may not be supportable in another country. The system may have to be returned to the supplier.
iii
SAFETY & REGULATORY NOTICES

Standards

Safety
This product complies with the International safety standard IEC950 and the European safety standard EN60950 which will, when applicable, include the national deviations for the country in which it is sold.
Electro-magnetic Compatibility (EMC)
This product complies with the following European EMC standards:
Emissions EN50022 Class B
Immunity EN50082-1
This product also complies with the following International EMC standards:
VCCI Level 1 (Japan)
Notes
All interconnecting cables (for example, signal and communication cables) should be less than 2 metres in length. If cable extensions are used, ensure adequate earth connections are provided and screened cables are used.
If any metal casework components are removed, during upgrade work for example, ensure that all metal parts are correctly re-assembled and all internal and external screws are re-fitted and correctly tightened.

Legalities

This equipment complies with the relevant clauses of the following European Directives (and all subsequent amendments):
Low Voltage Directive 73/23/EEC
EMC Directive 89/336/EEC
Telecommunications Directive 91/263/EEC
CE Marking Directive 93/68/EEC
IMPORTANT
This system complies with the CE Marking Directive and its strict legal requirements. Use only parts tested and approved by Mitsubishi Electric PC Division. Failure to do so may result in invalidating both the compliance and your warranty. All expansion cards, drives and peripherals must carry the CE mark to ensure continued compliance.
iv
SAFETY & REGULATORY NOTICES
E
N
L
125V
250V

Power Connection

Typical AC plugs
250V
E
LN
250V
E
NL
BS1363A SHUCO NEMA 5-15P SRAF 1962/DB16/87 ASE 1011
U. K. Austria Belgium Taiwan Denmark Switzerland
Finland France Thailand
Italy Germany Japan
Sweden Norway USA
Holland Canada
Checking the AC power supply
When this product is delivered, it is ready for the commercial AC power supply generally available in the country in which it is first sold. It has been set for the correct voltage range, and is supplied with an AC power cord and plug which comply with the relevant safety standards.
Before using the product in a country other than that in which it was originally sold, you must check the voltage and frequency of that country’s AC power supply, and the type of power cord required there. Check the power rating labels on the rear of the computer’s system unit and its monitor to ensure that they are compatible with the AC power supply.
The computer can function within two alternative AC power supply ranges, according to the position of the voltage selection switch on the rear of the system unit:
Switch setting AC power supply (voltage and frequency)
115 100 - 120 volt AC, 50 - 60 Hz
230 200 - 240 volt AC, 50 - 60 Hz
The voltage setting of the monitor must always be the same as the voltage setting of the system unit. See the User’s Guide that accompanies the monitor or consult your supplier to find out how to change the voltage setting.
250V
L
N
E
CAUTION
It is imperative that the computer is set to the correct voltage range before use. If not, the machine may be irreparably damaged.
v
SAFETY & REGULATORY NOTICES
Connecting to the AC power supply
IMPORTANT
Any peripheral equipment that requires an AC power cord must be earthed.
Use the following guidance to connect the components together. It is important that you take each step in the order indicated.
1. Before connecting any components, ensure that the AC power supply is switched off or disconnected, and that the system unit, the monitor, and any peripherals are turned off.
2. Connect the component signal cables to their respective ports on the system unit: keyboard, mouse, monitor, audio (where appropriate) and any other peripherals.
Where appropriate, connect the computer to the network.
3. Connect the component power cords: system unit, monitor to system, plus any other peripherals to nearby, grounded AC power outlets. (Never substitute a power cord from any other appliance). Then switch on or connect the AC power supply.
4. Turn on the system unit first, then the monitor, then other peripherals.
Power Cable Connections - UK ONLY
This equipment is supplied with an AC power cord that has a non­removable moulded plug.
Always replace the fuse with one of the same type and rating which is BSI or ASTA approved to BS1362. Always refit the fuse cover, never use the plug with the fuse cover omitted.
External Speakers (where supplied)
Always switch off or disconnect the AC supply before disconnecting any of the speaker leads, whether audio or power. Disconnect the AC supply from the speaker power unit when not in use for any period of time.
To prevent the risk of electric shock, do not remove speaker covers.
Connecting the speaker power cord to any other cords or joining cords together can cause fire and risk of electric shock.
vi

1 WELCOME

This chapter gives you a quick tour of your new Apricot Server. As soon as you’ve unpacked the components and assembled them, you should progress to the next chapter, Getting Started.
Throughout this manual ‘Windows’ means Microsoft Windows 95 or Windows NT 4.x, unless otherwise stated.
WARNING
Read the Safety & Regulatory Notices section at the start of this manual before using the computer for the first time.

Unpacking

After unpacking your computer, keep all the cartons, boxes and packaging materials; you will need them again if you have to transport the computer elsewhere.
Use the page at the end of this manual to make a note of the manufacturer’s data recorded on the various components (product codes, serial numbers, etc.). A service engineer may need this information if the computer develops a fault.
OWNER’S HANDBOOK 1/1
1-1
Welcome

Pictorial guide to the system unit

1 2 3
4 5 6
12
11
COMPACT
10
9
7
8
l
Infra-red sensor (optional)
7 CD activity indicator 2 Hard disk activity indicator 8 Lockable front door 3 Power Mode indicator 9 CD emergency eject hole
OWER
4P 5
button 10 CD E
CD-ROM disc drawer (platter)
6 CD headphone jack
11 Diskette drive 12 Front lifting point
JECT
button
& volume control
1/2 OWNER’S HANDBOOK
10
15
Welcome
A
1
A
A
2 3
4
10101
5 6 7 8
9
10 11
A
A
12 13
14
1 Monitor port 9
2 Parallel (printer) port 10 Handles to assist side panel removal
3 Dual USB port 11
4 Serial (modem) port 1 12
5 Mouse port 13 Voltage selection switch
6 Keyboard port 14
7 Audio output socket 15 Caselock
8 Audio input socket
Serial port 2 (optional)
Security loop for cable or padlock AC power outlet for monitor
AC power inlet from AC supply
Side panel fixing screws
A
OWNER’S HANDBOOK 1/3
Welcome
Use the P modes. The Power Mode indicator changes colour to show the current mode. See the Getting Started chapter for more information.
The infra-red sensor is present only on models fitted with a LOC Technology system in the form of an Apricot LS Security Card. See the LOC Technology Master User’s Guide for more information.
The audio input socket is mainly intended for a microphone. Alternatively, you could attach a personal stereo (tape or CD). The socket provides “phantom power” for electret condenser type microphones.
The audio output socket is intended for headphones or a pair of external self-powered loudspeakers.

Removing panels

For normal access to the interior of the system unit, only the right side panel, and possibly the top panel, need to be removed. The left side panel must be removed in order to install additional removable­media or hard disk drives in the forward drive bay.
WARNING
Never carry out any work inside the computer with AC power applied. Always shut down the computer and unplug all power cords before removing the top cover. Take effective anti-static precautions while the covers are off, as explained in the Safety & Regulatory Notices at the start of this manual.
button to turn on the computer and change power
OWER
Right side panel
1. Shut down the computer and turn off the monitor.
2. If your AC power outlets have switches, set them to their off positions.
3. Unplug all power cords from the rear of the system unit.
4. Remove the panel’s two fixing screws.
5. Turn the caselock key to the unlocked position.
1/4 OWNER’S HANDBOOK
Welcome
6. Slide the panel carefully towards the rear of the system using the handle provided. After about 2 to 3 cm of movement it is possible to lift the panel vertically, clear of the system.
Some models incorporate a security feature, controlled in BIOS Setup, that can detect if the caselock has been unlocked while the computer was turned off. See the on-line help in BIOS Setup for more information.
See the chapter on Motherboard Features & Upgrades for more information about the motherboard.
Top panel
1. Remove the right side panel as described above.
2. Remove the top panel’s fixing screw.
3. Slide the panel rearwards, then lift it off.
Left side panel
1. Remove the right side and top panels as described above.
2. Slide the panel carefully towards the rear of the system using the handle provided. After about 2 to 3 cm of movement it is possible to lift the panel vertically, clear of the system.
In each case, refitting is the reverse of removal.
CAUTION
Exercise care with the removed panels as there are metal fixings and hooks on the inside that may scratch delicate surfaces.
OWNER’S HANDBOOK 1/5
Welcome
5
4
10
9
8
7
6
11
12
3
2
1 Power supply unit (PSU)
2 First or “master” hard disk drive (HDD)
3
Forward drive bay for removable media drives and/or a second HDD
4 Diskette drive
5 Cable for side panel lock sensor
6
DIMM sockets for system memory upgrades
7
Processor socket Zero Insertion Force (ZIF) “Socket 7”
8 Main jumper block
9 Expansion card riser
10
Video memory upgrade sockets (optional)
11
Second serial port (optional)
12
Rear drive bay for SCSI hard disk drives
13 Primary and secondary E-IDE connectors
13
1
1/6 OWNER’S HANDBOOK

General advice

This computer is designed to be used in a normal home or office environment. Here are a few hints for choosing a suitable site:
Place the system unit flat on a sturdy, level surface, free from
Site the computer away from moisture, direct sunlight, and
When positioning the system unit, monitor and keyboard, take
Give the computer plenty of room so that air can circulate on
Welcome
vibration.
extremes of heat and cold. Avoid situations in which the surrounding temperature or humidity may change rapidly. When the computer is in use, the temperature should be between 10 and 35
o
C and humidity between 20% and 80%
(with no condensation).
into account any local or national regulations relating to ergonomic requirements. For example, you should ensure that little or no light is reflected off the monitor screen as glare, and that the keyboard is placed in a comfortable position for typing.
all sides. Air is drawn into the system unit through vents at the front, and expelled through the circular vent on the back. Ensure that these vents are never obstructed.
Do not allow any cables, particularly power cords, to trail across the floor where people walking past can snag them.
WARNING
The computer uses the system unit AC power cord as its ‘disconnect device’. Ensure that the system unit is positioned close to the AC power outlet, and that the plug is easily accessible.
To prevent fire and electric shock, do not expose any part of the system unit to rain or moisture.
OWNER’S HANDBOOK 1/7
Welcome

Connecting the components

Use the following guidance to connect the components together. It is important that you take each step in the order indicated.
1. Before connecting any components, ensure that the AC power supply is switched off or disconnected, and that the system unit, the monitor, and any peripherals are turned off.
2. Connect the components’ signal cables to their respective ports on the system unit: keyboard, mouse, monitor, audio (where appropriate) and any other peripherals. Where appropriate, connect the computer to the network.
3. Connect the various power cords: monitor, system unit and any other peripherals to nearby, grounded AC power outlets. Then switch on or connect the AC power supply.
With AC power applied, the system unit is usually in Off [red] mode. See the Getting Started chapter for more information about power modes.
Some models incorporate a feature, controlled in BIOS Setup, that automatically boots the PC to On [green] mode if AC power is restored, for example, after a power failure. See the on-line help in BIOS Setup for more information.
1/8 OWNER’S HANDBOOK

2 GETTING STARTED

You should read this chapter even if you do not read any other. It provides important information to help you to use your Apricot server safely and efficiently.

Turning on the PC

To turn on the computer, simply press the P colour of the Power Mode indicator turns from [red] to [green]. Remember that the monitor has its own power button or switch; see the monitor’s User Guide for details.
Power-on self-test (POST)
Whenever the computer is turned on, a power-on self-test (POST) routine tests various hardware components, and compares the actual configuration of the computer with that recorded in its permanent memory. During this time, BIOS sign-on and POST messages may be displayed. These messages are not significant unless they report errors – see the BIOS Setup & POST chapter.
Booting the operating system
Provided that POST succeeds without discovering any serious errors or configuration discrepancies, the computer attempts to find an operating system; that is, it attempts to ‘boot’.
Apricot PCs are typically supplied with either Windows 95, Windows NT or MS-DOS/Windows for Workgroups already in place or ‘pre-installed’ on the hard disk, so that the operating system is ready for you when you turn on the computer.
NOTE
If a diskette is in the diskette drive when the computer is turned on, the computer will attempt to boot using that diskette. This will succeed only if the diskette is a ‘system diskette’; that is, one bearing at least the rudiments of an operating system.
OWER
button. The
OWNER’S HANDBOOK 2/1
Getting Started

Power saving

Use the P
button to turn the computer on and change power
OWER
modes. The colour of the Power Mode indicator shows the current power mode:
[red] Off. Your computer is turned off, but is still connected
to the AC power supply, ready to be turned on (or turn itself on) when needed.
[yellow] Suspend. Your computer is “sleeping” to conserve
electricity. The processor stops, the hard disk stops spinning and the monitor goes blank. Briefly pressing the P
button wakes it up again. (This mode is
OWER
not available with Windows NT 4.x.)
[green] On or Standby. Your computer is awake and working.
During periods of inactivity the PC automatically reduces the power consumption of idle components (Standby mode). For example, the monitor screen may go blank. Move the mouse or press any keyboard key to wake up the PC again.
In Suspend mode your computer complies with the requirements of the “Energy Star” programme for energy-saving systems. In Standby mode your computer does its best to minimise power usage but may not always reach Energy Star levels.
If a suitable modem is installed, you can tell the computer to wake itself up from Suspend or Off mode when an incoming call is received. A networked computer can also be woken up by remote control, if it is fitted with a network card that supports IBM’s “Wake On LAN” technology.
2/2 OWNER’S HANDBOOK
Manual power saving
Getting Started
If you press the P
button while the PC is On [green] and
OWER
running either Windows 95 or Windows for Workgroups, the PC goes into Suspend [yellow] mode.
Alternatively, in Windows 95 (or later) you can click the Start button in the taskbar, then click Suspend.
You have to press the P
button to return to On [green] mode
OWER
– just moving the mouse or using the keyboard won’t work.
NOTE
Future versions of Windows will allow you to redefine the P
OWER
button so that when you press it the operating system shuts down and the PC goes directly into Off mode.
Automatic power saving
If you leave your PC running Windows 95 or Windows for Workgroups without doing anything, it moves automatically through Standby [green] to Suspend [yellow] mode. Press the P
button to wake it up again.
OWER
You can turn off Automatic Power Saving in the BIOS Setup utility; see the BIOS Setup & POST chapter for more information.
CAUTION
The monitor supplied with your computer is designed to recognise these energy-saving modes. If you want to use another monitor, make sure that it supports the VESA standard for “Display Power Management Signalling”; if it doesn’t, it may be permanently damaged.
OWNER’S HANDBOOK 2/3
Getting Started

Shutting down the PC

To shut down the computer safely, do the following:
1. Wait until all the activity indicators on the front bezel show ‘not busy’.
2. Turn off any attached peripherals, except for the monitor and other peripherals that are designed to be kept on permanently.
3. According to your operating system: In Windows 95 or Windows NT 5.x, click the Start
button in the taskbar, then click Shut Down. Select Shutdown the computer and click Yes. You do not have to press the P
In Windows NT 4.x, click the Start button in the taskbar,
then click Shut Down. Select Shutdown the computer and click Yes. When told that it is safe to do so, press the
OWER
P
In Windows for Workgroups, click the File menu in
Program Manager, then click Exit Windows. Once back in MS-DOS, press the P
In MS-DOS, or during POST, press the P
button.
OWER
button to turn off the computer.
button.
OWER
OWER
button.
After you shut down the PC, wait at least 5 seconds before turning it on again. The computer may not initialise itself properly if you turn it off then on again in quick succession.
Emergency shut down
In exceptional circumstances, you can put your PC into Off [red] mode without shutting down Windows first. To do this, press and hold down the P
If you press the P or performing the power-on self-test (POST), the PC always goes directly into Off [red] mode.
CAUTION
In an emergency shut down, you may lose any recent changes made to the files you are currently working on.
2/4 OWNER’S HANDBOOK
button for at least four seconds.
OWER
button while the PC is running MS-DOS
OWER

Using the computer for the first time

First time with Windows 95 or Windows NT
The first time you turn on your computer you must tell Windows your name (and the name of the company for which you work, if applicable) and agree to the legal terms and conditions of the Windows Licence Agreement. Windows then spends a few minutes analysing your computer and configuring itself to take full advantage of your computer’s components. Windows 95 also offers you the opportunity to install a printer.
First time with Windows for Workgroups
The first time you turn on your computer a message appears explaining the legal terms and conditions that govern the use of the software pre-installed on the computer’s hard disk. Once you have read this message, you can press the you are acknowledging that you have read, understood and accepted the terms and conditions.
F
Getting Started
3 key to continue. By doing so
OWNER’S HANDBOOK 2/5
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