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POWERMATE V486
user Manual
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Nec POWERMATE V486 user Manual

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PROPRIETARY NOTICE AND LIABILITY DISCLAIMER
The information disclosed in this document, including all designs and related materials, is the valuable property of NEC Corporation (NEC) and/or its licensors. NEC and/or its li­censors, as appropriate, reserve all patent, copyright and other proprietary rights to this document, including all design, manufacturing, reproduction, use, and sales rights thereto, except to the extent said rights are expressly granted to others.
The NEC product(s) discussed in this document are warranted in accordance with the terms of the Warranty Statement accompanying each product. However, actual performance of each such product is dependent upon factors such as system configuration, customer data, and operator control. Since implementation by customers of each product may vary, the suitability of specific product configurations and applications must be determined by the customer and is not warranted by NEC.
To allow for design and specification improvements, the information in this document is subject to change at any time, without notice. Reproduction of this document or portions thereof without prior written approval of NEC is prohibited.
MultiSync and PowerMate are U.S. registered trademarks of NEC Technologies, Inc. FastFacts is a U.S. trademark of NEC Technologies, Inc. All other product, brand, or trade names used in this publication are the trademarks or registered
trademarks of their respective trademark owners.
First Printing — February 1995
Copyright 1995 Copyright 1995
NEC Technologies, Inc. NEC Corporation
1414 Massachusetts Avenue 7-1 Shiba 5-Chome, Minato-Ku
Boxborough, MA 01719 Tokyo 108-01, Japan
All Rights Reserved All Rights Reserved

Contents

Preface............................................................................................................................. xiii
Abbreviations.................................................................................................................. xv
Section 1 Technical Information
Desktop System Unit....................................................................................................... 1-1
Minitower System Unit................................................................................................... 1-2
System Board .................................................................................................................. 1-3
Processor......................................................................................................................... 1-5
Secondary Cache...................................................................................................... 1-6
Flash ROM............................................................................................................... 1-6
Power Management.................................................................................................. 1-7
I/O Addressing......................................................................................................... 1-8
System Memory....................................................................................................... 1-9
iii
Interrupt Controller.................................................................................................. 1-10
Video Controller ...................................................................................................... 1-11
Video Memory......................................................................................................... 1-11
Dual IDE Ports......................................................................................................... 1-14
ISA/PCI-Bus Backboard ................................................................................................. 1-14
ISA Bus.................................................................................................................... 1-14
PCI Bus.................................................................................................................... 1-15
Parallel Interface ............................................................................................................. 1-15
Serial Interface ................................................................................................................ 1-16
Indicator Panel................................................................................................................. 1-16
Power Button ........................................................................................................... 1-17
Suspend Button........................................................................................................ 1-17
Lamps....................................................................................................................... 1-17
Power Supply .................................................................................................................. 1-17
Diskette Drive ................................................................................................................. 1-17
Hard Disk Drive.............................................................................................................. 1-18
Multimedia Components................................................................................................. 1-18
CD-ROM.................................................................................................................. 1-18
Sound Board............................................................................................................. 1-18
Speakers................................................................................................................... 1-19
Microphone.............................................................................................................. 1-19
NIC Connectors (Network-Ready Models)..................................................................... 1-19
iv Contents
Keyboard......................................................................................................................... 1-20
Mouse.............................................................................................................................. 1-20
Integrated Technologies.................................................................................................. 1-20
Desktop Management Interface ............................................................................... 1-20
Plug and Play Support.............................................................................................. 1-20
Power Saving Features............................................................................................. 1-20
Security Features...................................................................................................... 1-21
Section 2 Setup and Operation
Desktop Setup.......................................................................................................... 2-2
Minitower Setup....................................................................................................... 2-5
External Multimedia Connections ........................................................................... 2-7
Sound Board Jacks........................................................................................... 2-8
Connecting the Speakers.................................................................................. 2-9
Network Connectors ................................................................................................ 2-10
Setup Utility............................................................................................................. 2-12
How to Start Setup................................................................................................... 2-13
How to Use Setup .................................................................................................... 2-13
Menu Bar ......................................................................................................... 2-14
Legend Bar....................................................................................................... 2-15
Field Help Window.......................................................................................... 2-15
General Help Window..................................................................................... 2-16
Main Menu Options......................................................................................... 2-16
IDE Adapters ................................................................................................... 2-17
Memory Shadow.............................................................................................. 2-18
Boot Sequence ................................................................................................. 2-19
Numlock .......................................................................................................... 2-19
Advanced Menu....................................................................................................... 2-20
Integrated Peripherals Menu............................................................................ 2-20
Parity................................................................................................................ 2-21
Large Disk Access Mode................................................................................. 2-22
Security Menu.......................................................................................................... 2-22
Power Menu............................................................................................................. 2-24
Exit Menu ................................................................................................................ 2-25
Contents v
Save Changes & Exit....................................................................................... 2-25
Discard Changes & Exit .................................................................................. 2-25
Get Default Values........................................................................................... 2-26
Load Previous Values...................................................................................... 2-26
Save Changes................................................................................................... 2-26
Changing Jumper Settings ....................................................................................... 2-31
Clearing the Password.............................................................................................. 2-32
Section 3 Options
Desktop Expansion Board Installation..................................................................... 3-5
Minitower Expansion Board Installation................................................................. 3-7
Cautions ................................................................................................................... 3-8
SIMM Installation.................................................................................................... 3-9
Checking the Memory in the System............................................................... 3-9
Installing SIMMs............................................................................................. 3-11
Diskette Drive.......................................................................................................... 3-23
Diskette Drive Settings............................................................................................ 3-23
Hard Disk Drives ..................................................................................................... 3-24
Hard Disk Drive Settings......................................................................................... 3-24
Removing the 3 1/2-inch Drive Bracket.................................................................. 3-27
Removing the Blank Panel....................................................................................... 3-28
Installing the Storage Device................................................................................... 3-29
Parallel Printer ......................................................................................................... 3-38
RS-232C Device.............................................................................................. 3-39
vi Contents
Section 4 Maintenance and Troubleshooting
System Unit.............................................................................................................. 4-2
Keyboard.................................................................................................................. 4-3
Mouse....................................................................................................................... 4-4
Routine Checks........................................................................................................ 4-4
Error Messages......................................................................................................... 4-5
How to Load Remote Support Session............................................................ 4-6
Diagnosing and Solving Problems........................................................................... 4-7
DOS Application Problems...................................................................................... 4-11
Windows Application Problems.............................................................................. 4-14
Diagnostic Output and Beep Codes......................................................................... 4-16
Section 5 Desktop Repair
Top Cover Removal................................................................................................. 5-3
Expansion Board Removal ...................................................................................... 5-4
PCI/ISA-BUS Backboard Removal......................................................................... 5-6
Front Panel Assembly Removal............................................................................... 5-6
Power Button Cover Removal................................................................................. 5-8
Speaker Assembly Removal .................................................................................... 5-9
SIMM Removal ....................................................................................................... 5-10
3 1/2-inch Diskette and Hard Disk Drive Removal................................................. 5-11
5 1/4-Inch Device Removal ..................................................................................... 5-13
5 1/4-Inch Device Cage Removal............................................................................ 5-14
Power Supply Removal............................................................................................ 5-15
System Board Removal............................................................................................ 5-16
Battery Removal ...................................................................................................... 5-18
Illustrated Parts Breakdown..................................................................................... 5-18
Section 6 Minitower Repair
Top Cover Removal................................................................................................. 6-3
Expansion Board Removal ...................................................................................... 6-5
PCI/ISA-BUS Backboard Removal......................................................................... 6-6
Front Panel Assembly Removal............................................................................... 6-7
Contents vii
Power Button Cover Removal................................................................................. 6-8
Speaker Assembly Removal .................................................................................... 6-9
SIMM Removal ....................................................................................................... 6-10
3 1/2-inch Diskette Drive Removal ......................................................................... 6-11
3 1/2-inch Hard Disk Drive Removal...................................................................... 6-13
5 1/4-Inch Device Removal ..................................................................................... 6-15
5 1/4-Inch Device Cage Removal............................................................................ 6-16
Power Supply Removal............................................................................................ 6-17
System Board Removal............................................................................................ 6-18
Battery Removal ...................................................................................................... 6-20
Illustrated Parts Breakdown..................................................................................... 6-22
Appendix A Connector Pin Assignments
Appendix B Specifications
Appendix C CD-ROM Reader Configuration
viii Contents
List of Figures
Contents ix
x Contents
6-18 System Board Connectors and Screws ............................................................. 6-19
6-19 Battery Replacement......................................................................................... 6-21
6-20 PowerMate V466 Minitower Illustrated Parts Breakdown............................... 6-24
Contents xi
A-1 System Board Connectors................................................................................. A-1
A-2 Serial Interface (J4/J10).................................................................................... A-3
A-3 Parallel Interface (J13)...................................................................................... A-4
A-4 Power Supply Connector (J6) Pin Assignments............................................... A-6
C-1 Rear View of the Quad-Speed Reader.............................................................. C-1
C-2 Quad-Speed Reader Jumper Settings................................................................ C-2
List of Tables
1-1 System Board Chips.......................................................................................... 1-5
1-2 System Memory Map........................................................................................ 1-7
1-3 I/O Address Map............................................................................................... 1-8
1-4 Interrupt Level Assignments............................................................................. 1-10
1-5 Text Modes....................................................................................................... 1-12
1-6 Graphic Modes.................................................................................................. 1-13
1-7 Parallel Port Addressing and Interrupts........................................................... 1-15
1-8 Serial Port Addressing and Interrupts.............................................................. 1-16
2-1 Setup Key Functions......................................................................................... 2-15
2-2 Legend Bar Main Menu Parameters ................................................................. 2-16
2-3 IDE Hard Disk Parameters................................................................................ 2-18
2-4 Memory Shadow Parameters............................................................................ 2-18
2-5 Boot Parameters................................................................................................ 2-19
2-6 Numlock Parameters......................................................................................... 2-20
2-7 Integrated Peripherals Parameters..................................................................... 2-21
2-8 Large Disk Parameters...................................................................................... 2-22
2-9 System Security Options................................................................................... 2-23
2-10 Power Management Parameters........................................................................ 2-24
3-1 Memory Configurations.................................................................................... 3-10
4-1 NEC Service and Information Telephone Numbers......................................... 4-1
4-2 BIOS Update Utility Error Messages................................................................ 4-5
4-3 Problems and Solutions .................................................................................... 4-7
4-4 Sound Board DOS Problems............................................................................ 4-11
4-5 Sound Board Windows Problems..................................................................... 4-14
4-6 Diagnostic Output and Beep Codes.................................................................. 4-16
xii Contents
4-7 Diagnostic Output and Beep Codes Looped on POST..................................... 4-18
5-1 Desktop Disassembly Sequence ....................................................................... 5-1
5-2 System Board Connectors................................................................................. 5-17
5-3 PowerMate V486 Desktop Field-Replaceable Parts List.................................. 5-18
5-4 PowerMate V486 Desktop Options.................................................................. 5-21
5-5 PowerMate V486 Desktop Documentation and Packaging.............................. 5-21
6-1 PowerMate V466 Minitower Disassembly Sequence....................................... 6-1
6-2 System Board Connectors................................................................................. 6-20
6-3 PowerMate V466 Minitower Field-Replaceable Parts List.............................. 6-22
6-4 PowerMate V466 Minitower Options .............................................................. 6-25
6-5 PowerMate V466 Minitower Documentation and Packaging.......................... 6-26
A-1 System Board Connectors................................................................................. A-2
A-2 Video Connector (J17) Pin Assignments.......................................................... A-5
A-3 Speaker Connector (J18) Pin Assignments....................................................... A-5
A-4 Keyboard (J1) and Mouse (J2) Connector Pin Assignments............................ A-6
A-5 Power Lamp Connector (J9) Pin Assignments................................................. A-7
A-6 Hard Disk Drive Busy Lamp Connector (JP15) Pin Assignments ................... A-7
A-7 Reset Button Connector (J15) Pin Assignments............................................... A-7
A-8 Diskette Drive Connector (J5) Pin Assignments.............................................. A-8
A-9 IDE Connector Pin Assignments (J3/J7).......................................................... A-9
Contents xiii
xiii

Preface

This service and reference manual contains the technical information necessary to set up, maintain, troubleshoot, and repair the NEC PowerMate® V486 Series computer systems. It also provides hardware and interface information for users who need an overview of the computer system design. The manual is written for NEC-trained customer engineers, sys­tem analysts, service center personnel, and dealers.
The manual is organized as follows: Section 1, Technical Information, provides an overview of the computer features, hard-
ware design, interface ports and internal devices. Section 2, Setup and Operation, takes the user from unpacking to setup and operation.
Included is a description of the system configuration, system password, and the computer’s jumper settings, including the factory default settings.
Section 3, Options, provides the user with installation and troubleshooting information for each specific option.
Section 4, Maintenance and Troubleshooting, includes a list of NEC service information and telephone numbers that provide access to the NEC Bulletin Board System (BBS), FastFacts™, and Technical Information Bulletins. This section also includes recommended maintenance information and a list of possible solutions for computer problems.
Section 5, Desktop Repair, includes desktop disassembly and reassembly procedures along with an illustrated parts breakdown. NEC service and spare parts ordering informa­tion are also provided.
Section 6, Minitower Repair, includes minitower disassembly and reassembly procedures along with an illustrated parts breakdown. NEC service and spare parts ordering informa­tion are also provided.
Appendix A, Connector Pin Assignments, provides a list of the system boards' internal connector pin assignments and a list of external pin assignments for the keyboard/mouse, serial port, parallel port, and video port.
Appendix B, Specifications, provides specifications for the PowerMate V486 Series sys­tems.
Appendix C, CD-ROM Reader Configuration, provides connector and jumper informa­tion for the Quad-Speed CD-ROM reader.
Section 1

Technical Information

This manual contains information for desktop and minitower PowerMate V486 Series systems. The information applies to all models except where indicated. Models differ pri­marily in the chassis, CD-ROM reader, and microprocessor.
This section provides an overview of the system hardware. The basic hardware for the sys­tem includes a system unit, mouse, and keyboard.
External interface connectors are located in the rear of the system unit and are identified in Section 2, Setup and Operation. Jumper settings for all of the internal boards are also pro­vided in Section 2. Appendix A provides the system unit connector pin assignments and Appendix B provides specifications.
An overview of each of the two system units are described in the following subsections.
DESKTOP SYSTEM UNIT
The desktop chassis provides an enclosure for the system board, power supply, four storage device slots, and four expansion slots (three ISA and one ISA/PCI Bus™). A sound board is installed in one of the expansion slots in multimedia models. The storage device slots accommodate a 3 1/2-inch diskette drive, a 3 1/2-inch hard disk (1-inch height), and two 5 1/4-inch storage devices (1.6-inch height). The system ships with a 3 1/2-inch diskette drive. A 3 1/2-inch hard disk drive (540-MB or 850-MB IDE) and 5 1/4-inch CD-ROM reader are available on various models.
The following figures show front panel features on the desktop system unit.
Figure Section 1-1 Desktop System Controls and Lamps
1-2 Technical Information
Figure Section 1-2 Desktop Storage Devices and Controls
MINITOWER SYSTEM UNIT
The minitower chassis provides an enclosure for the system board, power supply, five stor­age device slots, and five expansion slots (four ISA and one ISA/PCI Bus™). A sound board is installed in one of the expansion slots in multimedia models. The storage device slots accommodate a 3 1/2-inch diskette drive, a 3 1/2-inch hard disk (1-inch height), and two 5 1/4-inch storage devices (1.6-inch height). The system ships with a 3 1/2-inch disk­ette drive. A 3 1/2-inch hard disk drive (540-MB IDE) and 5 1/4-inch CD-ROM reader are available on various models.
The following figures show front panel features on the minitower system unit.
Figure Section 1-3 Minitower System Controls and Lamps
Technical Information 1-3
Figure Section 1-4 Minitower Storage Devices and Controls
SYSTEM BOARD
The system boards are similar, differing only in the processor. The system board contains a Flash ROM which is upgradeable through the BIOS Update utility (see Section 2).
See Section 2, Setup and Operation, for a description of the system board's jumpers. See Appendix A, Connector Pin Assignments, for a list of the system board connectors.
Key features of the system board are listed below.
n processor
PowerMate V466 – Intel486DX2™-66PowerMate V4100 – Intel486DX4™-100
n clock rate
PowerMate V466 – 66 megahertz (MHz) internal, 33 MHz externalPowerMate V4100 – 100 MHz internal, 33 MHz external
n support for Intel OverDrive™ processor upgrades
1-4 Technical Information
n memory – 32-bit (system also supports 36-bit), 70-nano second (ns) single-inline
memory modules (SIMMs) 8 megabytes (MB) of random access memory (RAM) in the desktop and
minitower systems (expandable to 64 MB)
16 MB in the desktop multimedia systems (expandable to 64 MB)
n cache
8 KB in the Intel486DX216 KB in the Intel486DX4
n optional 256-KB secondary cache module n Trident 9440
(TGUI9440AGi Advanced GUI Accelerator)
supports 640 x 480 resolution with 16.8 million colors (24-bit true color), 800
x 600 with 64 K colors, 1024 x 768 with 256 colors, and 1280 x 1024 with 16 colors
1-MB video dynamic RAM (DRAM), expandable to 2 MB
n external input/output (I/O) connectors
parallel – one 25-pin connectorserial – two RS-232C ports; support asynchronous communication, up to
9600 bps, 9-pin connectors
VGA video monitor – supports standard, super, and high-resolution VGA
modes, 15-pin connector (D-shell)
keyboard – PS/2-compatible, 6-pin connector (mini DIN)mouse – PS/2 compatible, 6-pin connector (mini DIN)
n internal drive connectors
IDE – dual IDE channels, one fast IDE and one standard; CD-ROM reader
and hard disk on separate channels; support for up to 10 MB/second 32-bit transfers on PCI Bus; support for a total of four IDE devices; 40-pin connec­tors
diskette drive – supports two diskette drives, 34-pin connector
n expansion slots
desktop systems (four slots) – three 8-/16-bit ISA slots (two available), one
shared 32-bit PCI and 8-/16-bit ISA slot
minitower systems (five slots) – four 8-/16-bit ISA slots (two available),one
shared 32-bit PCI and 8-/16-bit ISA slot
n energy saving features – system switches to power save mode when idle for an
established amount of time
Table Section 1-1 lists the major chips on the system board.
Table Section 1-1 System Board Chips
Chip Description
Technical Information 1-5
486DX2-66 – PowerMate V466 486DX4-100 – PowerMate V4100
28F010 128k x 8 Flash ROM SiS 85C496/497 Green Chipset 496 PCI, CPU, memory, and IDE controller 497 interface between PCI/CPU memory bus and ISA bus,
SMC37C665GT Super I/O controller serial interface (16550), parallel interface (ECP/EPP),
AmiKey keyboard/mouse controller (Intel 8049 compatible) Trident 9440 VGA controller
33/66-MHz processor 33/100-MHz processor
ISA interface, DMA controller, interrupt controller, counter/timers, NMI control logic, power management, and real time clock
diskette drive (1.44- and 1.2-MB)
Processor
The desktop and minitower PowerMate V486 Series systems use the following processors.
n PowerMate V466 – Intel486DX2-66 (66-MHz internal, 33-MHz external) n PowerMate V4100 – Intel486DX4-100 (100-MHz internal, 33-MHz external)
The processors are advanced 32-bit processors designed to optimize multitasking operating systems. The 32-bit registers and data paths support 32-bit addresses and data types.
1-6 Technical Information
The processor is installed in a 237-pin, zero-insertion-force (ZIF) processor socket. This socket allows the installation of Intel OverDrive processors based on the Pentium core (PGA type package). When upgrading processors, they must operate with and external clock of 25 or 33 MHz.
The 486DX2 is exactly like previous 486DXs except that it runs twice as fast internally. When the interface bus portion of the DX2 accesses main memory, executes I/O instruc­tions, or accesses one of the other chips on the system board, the DX2 operates at 33 MHz. The DX2 works at 66 MHz when accessing its internal registers, refers to a memory loca­tion already mapped into its internal cache, or performs a floating-point operation and CPU operations.
The DX4 runs three times as fast internally. When the interface portion accesses external registers it operates at 33 MHz and works at 100 MHz when accessing its internal registers.
Secondary Cache
The 8-KB primary cache (16-KB of primary cache in the DX4) is integrated into the proc­essor. The system board provides an 80-pin SIMM socket for an optional 256 KB of sec­ondary cache, external to the processor. Cache memory improves read performance by holding copies of code and data that are frequently requested from the system memory by the processor. Cache memory is not considered part of the possible 64 MB of total memory capacity.
The cache is connected directly to the processor address bus and uses physical addresses. A bus feature known as burst enables fast cache fills. Memory areas (pages) can be desig­nated as cacheable or non-cacheable by software. The cache can also be enabled and dis­abled by software.
The write strategy of the cache (primary and secondary) is write back/through cache. If the write is a cache hit, an external bus cycle is generated and information is written to the cache. Any area of memory can be cached in the system. Non-cacheable portions of mem­ory are defined by software. The cache can be cleared by software instructions.
Flash ROM
Machine language programs are stored in a 28F010 Flash ROM known as the system's ROM BIOS. The system BIOS and video BIOS are contained in the ROM. The Flash ROM is 128 KB, which consists of 64 KB of system BIOS, and 32 KB of video BIOS.
The Flash ROM allows the BIOS to be upgraded with the BIOS Update utility without re­moving the ROM (see Section 2, Setup and Configuration). The BIOS can only be repro­grammed by powering on the system with the BIOS Update utility diskette in Drive A.
Technical Information 1-7
The BIOS programs execute the Power-On Self-Test, initialize processor controllers, and interact with the display, diskette drives, hard disks, communication devices, and peripher­als. The system BIOS also contains the Setup program and provides VGA controller sup­port. The hardware setup default copies the ROM BIOS into RAM (shadowing) for maximum performance.
System BIOS is located in the upper portion of the Flash ROM and video BIOS in the lower portion. System BIOS is located between F0000h-FFFFFh and supports shadowing and shadowed memory. System BIOS is write protected and automatically enabled.
Video BIOS is located between C0000h and C7FFFh. If the internal video is disabled, this range is mapped to ISA. The system memory map in shown in Table Section 1-3.
Table Section 1-3 System Memory Map
Memory Space Size Function
000000-07FFFF 512 KB Reserved for system base memory 080000-09FFFF 128 KB Mapped to either system base memory or ISA bus* 0A0000-0BFFFF 128 KB Mapped to either on-board video memory or ISA video memory 0C0000-0C7FFF 32 KB Mapped to either on-board video BIOS or ISA video BIOS 0C8000-0EFFFF 160 KB Mapped to ISA bus 0F0000-0FFFFF 64 KB Reserved for system BIOS 100000-FDFFFF 14.9 MB Reserved for Extended and/or Expanded system memory FE0000-FFFFFF 128 KB Mapped to ISA bus 1000000- On-Board 14.9 MB Reserved for Extended and/or Expanded system memory
*Always non-cacheable.
Flash ROM supports the reprogramming of the system and built-in video BIOS. Software controls this feature via port 94h. Flash ROM programming writes to location 0F0000h­0FFFFFh. This range allows access to 64 KB of the 128 KB ROM. To write to the rest of the ROM, bit 3 of port 94h must be set. Again, writing to 0F0000h-0FFFFFh allows the rest of the ROM to be programmed. (Setting bit 3 on port 94h maps the 0F0000h to 0E0000h range.)
Power Management
Each computer system incorporates power management features that lowers power con­sumption when there is no activity detected from the keyboard, mouse, diskette drive, CD­ROM reader, or hard disk drive after a pre-defined period of time. As soon as activity is detected the system resumes where it left off.
1-8 Technical Information
When Power Management is enabled the computer automatically activates power-saving features and enters a sleep mode whenever inactivity is sensed. The computer's power­saving functions are as follows.
n Reduces the CPU clock speed
The CPU clock speed is changed from 33 MHz to 8 MHz (16 MHz in the PowerMate V4100) to put the computer in sleep mode. The cache and video clocks are changed at the same time.
n Blanks out the monitor
Puts the video controller into sleep mode. The vertical sync clock and blank sig­nals to the monitor are disabled.
n Forces the IDE devices into stand-by mode
A suspend command is sent to the IDE devices which put the devices into a stand-by mode.
I/O Addressing
The processor communicates with I/O devices by I/O mapping. The hexadecimal (hex) ad­dresses of I/O devices are listed in Table Section 1-5.
Table Section 1-5 I/O Address Map
Address (Hex) I/O Device Name
000-01F DMA controller 1 (channel 0-3) 020-03F Interrupt controller 040-05F Timer 060-063 PPI (Programmable Peripheral Interface) keyboard, equipment switches,
timer 060-06F Keyboard controller 070-07F Real-time clock, CMOS memory, NMI mask
080 Manufacturer's diagnostic checkpoint
081-09F DMA page register 0A0-0AF NMI (non-maskable interrupt) mask 092 PS/2 alternate Fast A20 Gate, Hot Reset 094 Extended system port (NEC-specific hardware setup) 095 Extended system port (NEC-specific hardware setup) 097 Extended system port (NEC-specific hardware setup)
Table Section 1-5 I/O Address Map
Address (Hex) I/O Device Name
0A0-0BF Interrupt controller 2
0C0-0DF DMA controller 2 (channel 4-7) 0E0-0EF Reserved 170-177 2nd hard disk 1F0-1F7 1st hard disk 1F9-1FF Reserved 200-207 Game I/O adapter (not available) 220-233 Sound board 278-27F 2nd parallel port (3rd with DMA) 2F8-2FF 2nd asynchronous communications port 330-331 MIDI Port
Technical Information 1-9
370-377 Diskette controller 2 378-37F 1st parallel port (2nd with DMA) 388-38B FM Synthesizer
3A0-3AF Primary bisynchronous communications port 3B0-3DF Video Graphics Array (VGA)
3B0-3BF Monochrome display adapter/printer 1 3C0-3CF Enhanced Graphics Adapter (EGA) 1 3D0-3DF Color/Graphics Adapter (CGA and EGA) 3F0-3F7 Diskette Controller 3F8-3FF Serial Port 1
System Memory
The Power V486 system boards come standard with 8 MB of RAM (PowerMate V4100 multimedia systems come with 16 MB). The first megabyte includes the standard 640 KB of base memory. The remaining memory is extended memory. Two SIMM sockets are in­tegrated on the system board. The maximum possible memory is 64 MB.
The SIMM memory sockets accept 4-, 8, 16-, or 32-MB SIMMs. Two 32-MB SIMMs may be installed for a total of 64 MB. High-speed RAM is 32 bits wide (no parity) or 36 bits wide (with parity). No parity SIMMs are 1 MB x 32 bit (4 MB), 4 MB x 32 bit (16 MB), and 8 MB x 32 bit (32 MB). There are no switches or jumpers to set when SIMMs are added.
1-10 Technical Information
SIMMs install directly on the system board. Different size SIMMs may be intermixed. Each SIMM is inserted into a socket or bank. The system board's two SIMM sockets are assigned as banks 0 and 2. The standard 8 MB of memory is installed in bank 0. The PowerMate V4100 multimedia system has one 16 MB SIMM installed in bank 0.
SIMMs must match the tin metal plating used on the system board SIMM sockets. When adding SIMMs, use tin-plated SIMMs. See Section 3, Options, for installation instructions and SIMM memory configurations.
Interrupt Controller
The interrupt controller operates as an interrupt manager for the AT system environment. The controller accepts requests from peripherals, issues interrupt requests to the processor, resolves interrupt priorities, and provides vectors for the processor to determine which in­terrupt routine to execute. The interrupt controller has priority assignment modes that can be reconfigured at any time during system operations.
The interrupt levels are described in Table Section 1-7. See Section 2, Setup and Configu­ration, for information on changing the interrupts using Setup and jumpers.
Table Section 1-7 Interrupt Level Assignments
Interrupt Priority Interrupt Device
IRQ00 Counter/timer IRQ01 Keyboard IRQ02 Cascade (INT output from slave) IRQ03 COM2* IRQ04 COM1* IRQ05 Parallel port 1 IRQ06 Diskette drive controller* IRQ07 Sound board or Network Interface Card (NIC) IRQ08 Real-time clock IRQ09 MIDI port IRQ10 Available IRQ11 Available IRQ12 PS/2 mouse* IRQ13 Coprocessor IRQ14 Primary IDE (fast) IRQ15 Secondary IDE (standard)
*Industry standard locations
Technical Information 1-11
Video Controller
The Trident 9440 video controller combines powerful elements aimed at addressing the re­quirements of personal computer designs. State of the art techniques have been added for optimizing performance in computer graphic intensive applications and graphical user in­terfaces (GUI). For example, the Trident 9440 video controller integrates the PCI local bus in core logic. The key is that the PCI local bus interface is 32-bits wide.
The video controller speeds the movement of large blocks of image data in video memory. As display resolutions increase, image creation and movement into video memory are criti­cal factors in graphics performance.
The graphics accelerator is specifically designed for graphics-intensive operations, text and color pixel amplification, and scrolling. The accelerator minimizes bus traffic by off­loading the tasks normally performed by the processor.
In addition to the standard VGA connector, the system provides a VESA-compliant feature connector on the system board.
Video Memory
The system's high-performance PCI local bus video with bit-block transfer (BitBLT) and 1 MB of video memory support resolutions up to 1280 by 1024 pixels with 16 colors, 1024 by 768 with 256 colors, and 640 by 480 with 16.8 million colors.
With 2 MB of video memory, the video hardware supports up to 1280 by 1024 pixels with 256 colors or 1024 by 768 pixels with 64,000 colors.
1-12 Technical Information
Table Section 1-9 and Table Section 1-11 provide the different display modes for the video controller.
Table Section 1-9 Text Modes
Mode (Hex)
1
00
2
00
3
00
1
01
2
01
3
01
1
02
2
02
3
02
1
03
2
03
3
03
4
07
3
07
5
60
5
24
Colors
Column/
Rows
Buffer
Resolution
Video Clock (MHz)
Horiz Sync (kHz)
Vert Sync (Hz)
16 (grey) 40 x 25 B8000 320 x 200 28.2 31.7 70 16 (grey) 40 x 25 B8000 320 x 350 28.3 31.7 70 16 40 x 25 B8000 360 x 400 28.2 31.7 70 16 40 x 25 B8000 320 x 200 28.2 31.7 70 16 40 x 25 B8000 320 x 350 28.2 31.7 70 16 40 x 25 B8000 360 x 400 28.2 31.7 70 16(grey) 80 x 25 B8000 640 x 200 28.2 31.7 70 16(grey) 80 x 25 B8000 640 x 350 28.2 31.7 70 16 80 x 25 B8000 720 x 400 28.2 31.7 70 16 80 x 25 B8000 640 x 200 28.2 31.7 70 16 80 x 25 B8000 640 x 350 28.2 31.7 70 16 80 x 25 B8000 720 x 400 28.2 31.7 70 mono 80 x 25 B8000 720 x 350 28.2 31.5 70 mono 80 x 25 B8000 720 x 400 28.2 31.5 70 16 132 x 25 B8000 1056 x 400 40.0 30.5 67.5 16 132 x 30 B8000 1056 x 400 40.0 30.5 67.5
1CGA-style text mode with 8x8 character size and 200 lines vertical resolution.
2
EGA-style text mode with 8x14 and 9x14 character sizes and 350 lines vertical resolution.
3
VGA-compatible text mode with 9x16 character size and 400 lines vertical resolution.
4
MDA- style text mode with 9x14 character sizes and 350 lines vertical resolution.
5
Enhanced VGA mode.
Technical Information 1-13
Table Section 1-11 Graphic Modes
Mode (Hex)
1
04
1
05
1
06
1
0D
1
0E
2
0F
2
10
2
11
2
12
2
13
2
20
2
22
2,3
24
2
30
2
32
2,3
34
2,3
38
2
40
2
41
2,
42
2,
43
2,3
44
2,3
45
2
50
2
6A
2
70
2,3
75
3
76
2
78
2
79
Colors
Column
/Rows
Buffer
Resolution
Video Clock (MHz)
Horiz Sync (kHz)
Vert Sync (Hz)
4 40 x 25 B8000 320 x 200 25.2 31.5 70 4 40 x 25 B8000 320 x 200 25.2 31.5 70 2 80 x 25 B8000 640 x 200 25.2 31.5 70 16 40 x 25 A0000 320 x 200 25.2 31.5 70 16 80 x 25 A0000 640 x 200 25.2 31.5 70 mono 80 x 25 A0000 640 x 350 25.2 31.5 70 16 80 x 25 A0000 640 x 350 25.2 31.5 70 2 80 x 30 A0000 640 x 480 25.2 31.5 70 16 80 x 30 A0000 640 x 480 25.2 31.5 60 256 40 x 25 A0000 320 x 200 25.2 31.5 70 16 80 x 30 B8000 640 x 480 40.0 30.5 60 16 100 x 37 A0000 800 x 600 25.2 31.5 60 16 128 x 48 A0000 1024 x 768 32.6 31.5 73 256 80 x 30 A0000 640 x 480 36.0 35.5 56 256 100 x 37 A0000 800 x 600 40.0 38.0 60 256 128 x 48 A0000 1024 x 768 50.4 48.4 73 256 80 x 25 A0000 1280 x 1024 25.2 31.5 70 32k 80 x 30 A0000 640 x 480 25.2 31.5 60 64k 80 x 30 A0000 640 x 480 32.6 31.5 73 32k 100 x 37 A0000 800 x 600 25.2 31.5 70 64k 100 x 37 A0000 800 x 600 36.0 35.5 56 32k 128 x 48 A0000 1024 x 768 40.0 38.0 60 64k 128 x 48 A0000 1024 x 768 50.4 48.4 73 16M 80 x 30 A0000 640 x 480 44.9 35.5 87 16 100 x 37 A0000 800 x 600 65.0 49.0 61 16 100 x 37 A0000 800 x 600 72.0 56.6 70 16 128 x 48 A0000 1024 x 768 44.9 35.5 87 16 160 x 64 A0000 1280 x 1024 72.0 56.6 70 256 80 x 25 A0000 640 x 400 72.0 56.6 70 256 80 x 30 A0000 640 x480 44.9 35.5 87
1-14 Technical Information
Table Section 1-11 Graphic Modes
Mode (Hex)
2
7C
2,3
7E
18x8 character size
2
8x16 character size
3
Interlaced
Colors
256 100 x 37 A0000 800 x 600 72.0 56.6 70 256 128 x 48 A0000 1024 x 768 80.0 48.1 87
Column
/Rows
Buffer
Resolution
Video Clock (MHz)
Horiz Sync (kHz)
Vert Sync (Hz)
Dual IDE Ports
The system board in the PowerMate V486 Series provides two IDE ports — a fast IDE port (the primary channel) and a standard IDE port (the secondary channel). Each port supports two devices for a total of four IDE devices. The system supports the installation of an IDE CD-ROM reader for system configuration flexibility without the addition of a controller.
The fast IDE port features an enhanced IDE interface which supports up to 10 MB per sec­ond 32-bit wide data transfers on the high-performance VESA local bus (VL bus). (Stan­dard IDE supports 2 MB to 3 MB per second on the ISA bus.) In hard disk configurations, the standard hard disk is connected to the fast IDE port for high performance.
ISA/PCI-BUS BACKBOARD
The ISA/PCI-bus backboard plugs into two bus connectors on the system board. The back­board provides expansion slots for additional circuit boards. The backboards for the desk­top and minitower systems are described below.
n desktop systems (four slots) – three 8-/16-bit ISA slots (two available), one
shared 32-bit PCI and 8-/16-bit ISA slot
n minitower systems (five slots) – four 8-/16-bit ISA slots (two available),one
shared 32-bit PCI and 8-/16-bit ISA slot.
ISA Bus
The system board uses the ISA bus for transferring data between the processor and I/O pe­ripherals and expansion boards. The ISA bus supports 8- and 16-bit data transfers and typi­cally operates at 8.33 MHz. A connector is provided on the system board for attaching the ISA/PCI-Bus backboard.
Technical Information 1-15
PCI Bus
The industry-standard PCI bus is a highly-integrated input/output (I/O) interface that offers the highest performance local bus available for the 486-based processor. The PCI bus sup­ports burst modes that send large chunks of data across the bus, allowing fast displays of high-resolution images.
The high-bandwidth PCI local bus eliminates data bottlenecks found in traditional systems, maintains maximum performance at high clock speeds, and provides a clear upgrade path to future technologies.
The PCI bus slot is used in conjunction with an ISA bus slot. This feature allows a PCI bus option board full access to the ISA bus. For example, the PCI bus option board may utilize the parallel port via the ISA bus, or use the ISA bus REFRESH signal. Use of the ISA bus is optional, as the PCI bus has all signals needed to fully support a PCI bus option board.
PARALLEL INTERFACE
The system has a 25-pin parallel port on the system board. Specifications for this port con­form to the IBM-PC standards.
The BIOS has automatic ISA printer port sensing. If the BIOS detects an ISA printer port mapped to the same address, the built-in printer port is disabled. The BIOS also sets the first parallel interface port it finds as LPT1 and the second port it finds as LPT2. The inter­rupt is set to IRQ5 via the Setup and jumper settings.
Interrupt levels for the parallel port are given in Table Section 1-13. Software selectable base addresses are 3BCh, 378h, and 278h.
NOTE: Interrupts used for the built-in parallel port are not available for ISA parallel ports.
Parallel interface signals are output through the system board's 25-pin, D-subconnector. The connector is located at the rear of the system unit. Pin locations for the parallel inter­face connector are shown in Appendix A.
Table Section 1-13 Parallel Port Addressing and Interrupts
Starting I/O Address Interrupt Level Port
378 IRQ05 LPT1 278 IRQ05 LPT1 or LPT2 3BC IRQ05 LPT1 or LPT2
*Default for parallel port
1-16 Technical Information
SERIAL INTERFACE
The system has two standard serial ports (COM1 and COM2). The serial ports support the standard RS-232C interface (16550 compatible). I/O addresses and interrupt levels for the two channels are given in Table Section 1-15. The interrupt is selectable via Setup to either IRQ3 or IRQ4. Software selectable base addresses are 3F8h, 2F8h, 3E8h, and 2E8h. Serial interface signals are output through the system board's 9-pin, D-subconnector. The con­nectors are located at the rear of the system unit. Pin locations for the serial interface con­nector are shown in Appendix A.
NOTE: Interrupts used for the built-in serial ports are not available for ISA parallel ports.
Table Section 1-15 Serial Port Addressing and Interrupts
Starting I/O Address Interrupt Level Port
3F8* IRQ04 COM1 2F8 IRQ03 COM2 3E8 IRQ04 COM3 2E8 IRQ03 COM4
*Default for serial port
Serial interface specifications include:
n Baud rate up to 19.2 KB per second n Word length - 5, 6, 7, or 8 bits n Stop bit - 1, 1.5, or 2 bits n Start bit - 1 bit n Parity bit - 1 bit (odd parity or even parity).
INDICATOR PANEL
The indicator panel is attached to the front panel and contains the power button, suspend button, and indicator lamps. The indicator panel attaches to the system board using con­nector J15 (reset connector), JP15 (hard disk drive busy lamp connector), and J9 (power lamp connector).
Technical Information 1-17
Power Button
The power button controls power to the system unit. Press the button once to turn on the power and again to turn off the power.
Suspend Button
The suspend button initiates a power-saving mode of operation. When pressed during nor­mal operation, the system goes into a Suspend or “Sleep” mode. Suspend mode saves data and system status and shuts off all power-consuming devices, such as the monitor and hard disk drive. An amber system unit power lamp indicates that the system is in Suspend mode.
See Section 2, Setup and Operation for information about using power-saving modes.
Lamps
The front panel contains two lamps, power and disk.
n The power lamp (green) indicates that the system unit is powered on. It also pro-
vides the status of system operation. A green lamp indicates that the system is in a Full Power On mode of operation.
An amber lamp indicates that the system is in Suspend mode with full power re­duction.
See Section 2, Setup and Operation for information about using power-saving modes.
n The disk lamp (green) indicates when a hard disk is performing a read or write
operation.
POWER SUPPLY
The power supply is mounted inside the system unit. It supplies power to the system board, option boards, diskette drives, hard disks, keyboard, and mouse. Two connectors connect the power supply to the system board. A fan inside the power supply provides proper ven­tilation for the system. The power supply in the desktop supplies 145W of power. The minitower power supply provides 200W. Power requirements and specifications for both power supplies are provided in Appendix C.
DISKETTE DRIVE
Up to two diskette drives are supported in the system. The system ships with a connector cable for a single drive. A replacement cable with two connectors is required when install­ing a second floppy device. The system refers to the diskette drives as A and B. Drive A is for the first drive, B is for a second optional diskette drive. The diskette drive cable plugs directly into the system board. Typically both diskette drive are terminated. See Section 3, Options, for installing an optional 5 1/4-inch diskette drive.
1-18 Technical Information
Specifications for the diskette drives are provided in Appendix B, Specifications.
HARD DISK DRIVE
The system provides IDE interface connectors on the system board. The system board sup­ports up to two IDE devices on the standard connector and two IDE devices on the fast VL bus IDE connector. The system unit provides one storage slot for a 3 1/2-inch hard disk (1­inch height), and one available storage slots for a optional 5 1/4-inch device (1.6-inch height). See Section 3, Options, for installing an optional hard disk drive.
MULTIMEDIA COMPONENTS
Multimedia components include the CD-ROM reader, sound board, speaker and micro­phone. The following subsections give a brief description of each. Information on attaching the speakers and microphone is located in Section 2, Setup and Operation.
CD-ROM
CD-ROM readers come pre-installed in the multimedia systems. Operation of the readers are described in Section 2, Setup and Operation. The CD-ROM reader may be used to load programs from a CD. The CD-ROM reader can also be used to play audio CDs. The CD­ROM reader is assigned as drive E.
Sound Board
The sound board is the Creative Labs Sound Blaster™. The sound board is installed in the ISA backboard. System settings for the sound board can be found in a sound board direc­tory on the system's hard disk drive (multimedia systems only). For information on chang­ing the sound board settings, see the SB 16-bit Multimedia Audio Card User's Guide that comes with the computer. The following are the factory settings.
n I/O address – 220h for the sound board n Interrupt request (IRQ) – IRQ7 n Direct memory access (DMA) – DMA channel 5 (16-bit) and DMA channel 1 (8-
bit)
The sound board uses 16-bit DMA data transfer and has software addressable IRQs and DMAs for versatility. External connectors accept speakers or headphones, a microphone, stereo input, and a musical instrument digital interface (MIDI) or joystick attachment. The speaker jack offers a four-watt (RMS)/channel amplifier. The joystick port allows a full duplex MIDI.
Technical Information 1-19
The advanced frequency modulation (FM) stereo synthesizers use a 16-bit digital-to­analog-converter (DAC) with four operator FM sounds and twenty stereo voices. The sound board provides digital sampling up to 44 kHz and playback with dynamic filtering from 2 to 44 kHz. The sound board is fully compatible with the ADLib™ software library.
Connectors for the sound board are shown in Section 2, Setup and Operation. See Appen­dix A for connector pin assignments and Section B for specifications.
Speakers
PowerMate V486 multimedia systems come with two speakers and the appropriate con­necting wires. An AC adapter ships with the speakers. The speaker set features a volume, treble, bass, balance, and power-on controls. The speakers connect to the speaker jacks on the sound board located at the back of the system unit (see Section 2, Setup and Operation). Speaker features are as follows.
n 3-inch magnetically shielded full-range speakers n Bass (DXBB) boost switch n Treble boost switch n Built-in power booster n Power source: four “C” batteries (not included) or (optional) 6 volt (V) AC
power adapter
n Speaker impedance: 8 ohms n Power output: 3.6 watts n Frequency response: 60 – 15000 Hz n 3.5 mm stereo plug
Microphone
The microphone that comes with the multimedia systems record voice and sound into computer data files. The microphone jack is on the sound board located at the back of the system unit.
NIC CONNECTORS (NETWORK-READY MODELS)
Network-ready models come with a network interface board. The board allows the system to connect to an Ethernet network and communicate with other computers. The board, also referred to as a network interface card (NIC), provides three connectors for network ca­bling (see Section 2, Setup and Operation).
1-20 Technical Information
KEYBOARD
The PS/2-style keyboard is standard equipment for the system. The keyboard provides a numeric keypad, separate cursor control keys, and 12 function keys, capable of up to 48 functions. Status lamps on the keyboard indicate: Num (Numeric) Lock, Caps (Capital) Lock, and Scroll Lock key status. The keyboard's six-pin connector is plugged into the rear of the base unit. See Appendix A for a description of connector pin assignments.
MOUSE
A PS/2-compatible mouse is standard equipment for the system. Under normal conditions, the mouse has a self-cleaning mechanism that prevents a buildup of dust or lint around the mouse ball and tracking mechanism. Periodically, however, the mouse ball must be cleaned. See Section 4, Maintenance and Troubleshooting, for information on cleaning the mouse.
INTEGRATED TECHNOLOGIES
The following sections describe the technologies that provide desktop management, Plug and Play support, power management, and security.
Desktop Management Interface
Desktop Management Interface (DMI) provides tracking information about the system at power-on. At power-on, the system displays the system model number and the system board serial number which is created during manufacturing at NEC.
DMI helps the user or service technician by providing information for quick technical sup­port or software and hardware upgrades.
Plug and Play Support
The system comes with a Plug and Play BIOS which supports Plug and Play technology. Plug and Play eliminates complicated setup procedures for installing Plug and Play expan­sion boards.
With Plug and Play technology, there are no jumpers to set and no system resource con­flicts to resolve. Plug and Play automatically configures the board for the system.
The system also supports non-Plug and Play boards. For information about installing ex­pansion boards, see Section 3, Options.
Power Saving Features
Power saving options for PowerMate 486V Series systems include full power, partial power reduction, and full power reduction modes of operation. The system provides many ways to conserve energy, help the environment, and cut operating expenses.
Technical Information 1-21
An “Instant On/Off” feature conveniently puts the system into a full power reduction mode of operation at the press of a button. See Section 2, Setup and Operation for information about using power-saving modes.
Security Features
Security features in the PowerMate 486V Series provides protection against unauthorized access to the system.
Security options include:
n Dual Password Security – provides two levels of password security. A supervisor
password allows access to the system’s Setup utility for system configuration. A user password allows system boot up only after the entry of a password.
n Diskette Drive Access Protection – includes support for locking out diskette drive
access when a user password is provided.
n Fixed Disk Boot Sector – provides a “Write Protected” option that helps prevent
viruses.
n Backup Reminder Message – displays a periodic reminder to the user to back up
the system hard disk files.
n Virus Scan Reminder Message – displays a periodic reminder to the user to scan
for any viruses on the hard disk.
See Section 2, Setup and Operation for a complete list of security options and information about setting them.
Section 2

Setup and Operation

This section provides information on hardware setup for PowerMate V486 series comput­ers. Setup includes unpacking, cabling, and powering up the system. It also includes con­figuring the system with the system setup programs. Section 3 provides information for installing options.
UNPACKING AND REPACKING
Find an area away from devices that generate magnetic fields (electric motors, transform­ers, etc.). Place the carton on a sturdy surface, and carefully unpack the system. The carton contents include the system unit, keyboard, mouse, speakers, power cord, user documenta­tion, CD-ROM disc with hotload backup, and system recovery diskette.
Repack the system using the original shipping carton and packing material. Part numbers for replacement shipping cartons and packing material are available at the end of Sections 5 and 6.
2-2 Setup and Operation
SETUP
Connect the system components according to the following two subsections.
n Desktop Configuration – for setting up desktop system units. n Minitower Configuration – for setting up minitower system units.
Desktop Setup
Set up the desktop systems by making the following connections. (See the following sub­section, Minitower Setup, if setting up a minitower computer).
1. At the rear of the system, set the voltage selector switch to 115V or 230V and in-
sert the power cord into the system power socket.
CAUTION: The correct AC input voltage must be properly set. Select the appropriate voltage with the voltage selector switch located at the rear of the system.
Figure Section 2-1 Desktop Voltage Selector Switch
Setup and Operation 2-3
2. Connect the keyboard and mouse cables to the back of the system unit.
3. Connect the monitor and any other peripherals to the rear panel. See “External
Multimedia Connections” and “Network Connectors” later in this subsection for multimedia and network connections.
Figure Section 2-2 Peripherals Connections
4. Press the power button to power-on the system. The indicator lamps and reset
button are also identified in the figure.
Figure Section 2-3 Lamps, Reset Button, and Power Button
The system has a built-in checking program that automatically tests the components at power-on. One beep indicates that the system has successfully completed its power-on test.
2-4 Setup and Operation
If there is a problem, a series of beeps may occur. If this happens repeatedly after powering on the system, power off the system and see Section 4 for troubleshooting.
NOTE: If the system displays a message indicating that system settings have changed, run Setup (see “System Configuration” later in this section).
If a problem occurs, and is not indicated by beeps, check the following items, then turn to Section 4 for troubleshooting. Check that:
n the power switch for the system unit and monitor are on. n all cables and power cords are tightly connected. n the electrical outlet is working. n the monitor's brightness and contrast are adjusted properly. n all options are properly installed (see Section 3 for option installation).
Setup and Operation 2-5
Minitower Setup
Set up the minitower systems by making the following connections. (See the preceding subsection, Desktop Setup, if setting up a desktop computer).
1. At the rear of the system, set the voltage selector switch to 115V or 230V and in-
sert the power cord into the power socket.
CAUTION: The correct AC input voltage must be properly set. Select the appropriate voltage with the voltage selector switch located at the rear of the system.
Figure Section 2-4 Minitower Voltage Selector Switch
2-6 Setup and Operation
2. Connect the keyboard and mouse cables to the back of the system unit
3. Connect the monitor and any other peripherals to the rear panel. See “External
Multimedia Connections” and “Network Connectors” later in this subsection for multimedia and network connections.
Figure Section 2-5 Minitower Peripherals Connections
4. Press the power button to power-on the system. The user lamps and reset button
are also identified in the figure.
Figure Section 2-6 Minitower Indicators, Reset Button, and Power Button
Setup and Operation 2-7
The system has a built-in checking program that automatically tests the components at power-on. One beep indicates that the system has successfully completed its power-on test.
If there is a problem, a series of beeps may occur. If this happens repeatedly after powering on the system, power off the system and see Section 4 for troubleshooting.
NOTE: If the system displays a message indicating that system settings have changed, run Setup (see “System Configuration” later in this section).
If a problem occurs, and is not indicated by beeps, check the following items, then turn to Section 4 for troubleshooting. Check that:
n the power switch for the system unit and monitor are on. n all cables and power cords are tightly connected. n the electrical outlet is working. n the monitor's brightness and contrast are adjusted properly. n all options are properly installed (see Section 3 for option installation).
External Multimedia Connections
This section explains how to connect the multimedia components to the system's multime­dia connectors. The connectors are located on the sound board at the rear of the system and on the CD-ROM reader at the front of the system.
2-8 Setup and Operation
Sound Board Jacks
Systems configured with multimedia components come with a sound board. The sound board provides jacks for connecting a microphone and external speakers to the system.
Figure Section 2-7 Sound Board Connectors
n Line In Jack − connects devices such as a cassette, DAT, or Minidisc player to
the sound board for playback or recording.
n Microphone In Jack − connects a microphone for voice input. n Line Out Jack − bypasses the sound board’s internal amplifier to connect pow-
ered speakers or an external amplifier for audio output. (This is the jack to use for the speakers shipped with the system.)
n Speaker Jack − connects speakers for audio output from the sound board’s built-
in power amplifier. The built-in amplifier has a maximum output power of four watts per channel from four-ohm speakers and two watts per channel from eight­ohm speakers. Do not play at maximum volume if the speakers cannot handle this power. (Use this jack to connect unamplied speakers.)
Setup and Operation 2-9
n MIDI/Joystick Connector − connects a joystick or MIDI kit to the sound board.
The joystick connector on the sound board is identical to that on a standard PC game control adapter or game I/O connector. Any analog joystick with a 15-pin D-sub connector can be connected to the joystick connector. It also works well with any application that is compatible with the standard PC joystick. To use two joysticks, use a Y-cable splitter.
NOTE: If a game board is installed in the sys­tem, it will conflict with the joystick connector on the sound board.
To avoid this conflict, remove either the game board or disable the joystick connector on the sound board by removing the jumper block from Jumper JYEN
Connecting the Speakers
The speakers will operate once they are connected to the sound board. To utilize the built­in amplifier for treble and bass control and additional volume, connect the AC adapter that is included. Connect the speakers to the system unit as follows
1. Open the covers at the rear of the speakers. Pull out the speaker cables.
If installing batteries, install two “C” cell into each compartment at this time and replace the rear covers.
CAUTION: Do not install batteries in the speakers when using an AC adapter installed.
2. Connect the left speaker cable (with the dual plug) to the right speaker connector
labeled TO LEFT SPEAKER.
2-10 Setup and Operation
3. Connect the right speaker cable (with the single plug) to the SPK OUT jack at the
rear of the sound board at the rear of the system unit.
Figure Section 2-8 Speaker Connections
Connect the 6-volt AC adapter as follows.
1. Remove any install batteries from the speakers.
2. Plug the AC adapter into the DC 6V jack on the back of the left speaker (see
Figure Section 2-8)
3. Plug the other end of the AC adapter into a properly grounded wall outlet.
Network Connectors
Some systems are configured with a network board. The network board provides three jacks for connecting the system to the local network. The network board is a 3COM, 16­bit, Etherlink™ network interface board. Features are as follows:
n Hardware Plug and Play is supported. n Hardware configuration is software selectable (no jumpers or switches to set). n Includes AutoLink™ auto installation software which installs all Novell
ware® DOS ODI client software into the operating system.
n Provides auto select media type capability, which enables certain drivers to
automatically detect the type of media connector that connects the network board to the network.
®
Net-
Setup and Operation 2-11
n Provides network management support through Transcend ™ Etherlink SmartA-
gent™ software, which is auto-installed with the drivers.
The network interface board has connectors for thin, thick, or twisted-pair Ethernet con­nections. A Network Interface Card User’s Guide and drivers ship with network configured systems. Call the network administrator to install the appropriate drives. Use the following figures to select the appropriate connections.
Figure Section 2-9 Network Board Connectors
2-12 Setup and Operation
SYSTEM CONFIGURATION
This subsection describes the Setup utility program that allows the system configuration in­formation to be viewed and changed.
NOTE: The system ships from the factory with the correct system parameters for the configura­tion. Unless adding optional hardware, Setup does not need to be run.
However, run Setup to set features that custom­ize the system, such as security features.
System configuration information is stored in nonvolatile memory. Nonvolatile memory in the system is a complementary metal-oxide semiconductor (CMOS) chip backed up by a battery on the system board. The battery supplies continuous power to the CMOS memory and maintains configuration information when system power is off.
Setup Utility
The Setup utility is used to view and set system parameters. Use the Setup utility program
n to set the time and date. n to update or check system parameters when adding or removing expansion op-
tions.
n to correct a hardware discrepancy when the Power-On-Self-Test (POST) displays
an error message and a prompts appears to run Setup.
n to check the installation of optional memory by comparing the amount memory
installed with the amount of memory displayed by Setup.
n to change certain system operating parameters. n to customize the system with security features such as passwords and I/O control
functions.
n to set system parameters in the event that the system battery needs to be replaced.
How to Start Setup
10
To start the Setup utility, follow these steps:
1. Turn on or reboot the system. Setup displays the following message:
Press <F2> to enter SETUP
2. Press F2. Setup’s Main Menu window appears similar to the following screen.
NOTE: The screen shown is typical of the sys- tem. The actual items on the Main Menu depend upon the hardware installed in the system.
PhoenixBIOS Setup — Copyright 1992-95 Phoenix Technologies Ltd.
Main Advanced Security Power Exit
System Time: [ :19:20] Item Specific Help System Date: [03/12/1995] Diskette A: [1.44 MB, 3 ½"] <Tab>, <Shift-Tab>, or Diskette B: [Not Installed] <Enter> selects field. > IDE Adapter 0 Master: C: 540 Mb > IDE Adapter 0 Slave: None > IDE Adapter 1 Master: None > IDE Adapter 1 Slave: None Video System: [EGA/VGA] > Memory Shadow: [Enabled] > Boot sequence: [A: then C:] > Numlock: [Auto]
System Memory: 640 KB Extended Memory: 7 MB
Setup and Operation 2-13
F1 Help ↑↓ Select Item -/+ Change Values F9 Setup Defaults
ESCExit ←→ Select Menu Enter Select > Sub-Menu F10 Previous Values
How to Use Setup
The Setup utility has a Main Menu window and five top-level menus with submenus. The Main Menu window contains the following areas:
n A title line — the top line of the Main Menu. This line displays the Setup utility
name and copyright message.
n The menu bar — the line under the Setup title line. The menu bar contains five
top-level menus for setting system parameters.
n A Main Menu summary window — the center area on the left side of the screen.
This area provides a summary of Main Menu Setup parameters. Main Menu parameters can be set directly from this window or from the Main menu option in the legend bar.
2-14 Setup and Operation
n The Field Help window or Item Specific Help — the area on the right side of the
screen. This help area provides help information for the Setup option currently selected.
n The legend bar — the area at the bottom of the screen. The legend bar provides a
summary of command keys for using Setup.
n The General Help window — a window that appears any time during Setup after
pressing F2 or Alt H . This help window provides two pages of general informa­tion about using Setup.
The following sections describe how to use the Main Menu window to set system parame­ters.
Menu Bar
The menu bar at the top of the Main Menu window lists these menus:
n Main — Use this menu for basic system configuration. For example, select
“Main” to set the system time, system date, diskette drives, and video parameters. Use this menu to check memory parameters.
n Advanced — Use this menu to set serial port and printer port addresses and inter-
rupts, to enable/disable the system’s diskette drive controller and dual-IDE con­trollers.
The Advanced menu also provides menu items for setting parity and for setting parameters for large disks (for example, to use large disks with Windows NT).
Some of the Advanced features are accessible only with a Supervisor password.
n Security — Use this menu to set User and Supervisor Passwords and the Backup
and Virus-check reminders.
n Power — Use this menu to configure Power-Management features. n Exit — Exits the current menu.
To select an option from the menu bar, use the left and right ←← →→ arrow keys. See “Exiting Setup” in this chapter for a description on exiting the Main Menu.
Setup and Operation 2-15
Legend Bar
Use the keys listed in the legend bar on the bottom of the Setup menu to make the selec­tions or exit the current menu. The following table describes the legend keys and their al­ternates.
Table Section 2-1 Setup Key Functions
Key Function
F1 or Alt-H Displays General Help window (described later in this chapter). Esc Exits the menu. ← or → arrow keys ↑ or ↓ arrow keys Tab or Shift-Tab Cycles cursor up and down. Home or End Moves cursor to top or bottom of window. Page Up or Page Down Moves cursor to next or previous page. F5 or - Selects the Previous Value for the field. F6 or + or Space Selects the Next Value for the field. F9 Loads the Default Configuration values for this menu. F10 Loads the Previous Configuration values for this menu.
Enter Alt-R Refreshes screen
Selects a different menu. Moves cursor up and down.
Executes Command or Selects submenu.
To select a menu item, use the arrow keys to move the cursor to the desired field. Then use the value keys (F5, –, F6, +, or space bar) to cycle through the value for that field. The Save Values command in the Exit Menu saves the values currently displayed in all the menus.
To display a submenu, use the arrow keys to move the cursor to the desired submenu. Then press Enter. A pointer (a right-pointing triangle) marks all selectable submenus.
Field Help Window
The Field Help window or Item Specific Help window on the right side of each menu dis­plays the help text for the currently selected Setup option. It updates as the cursor is moved to each new field.
2-16 Setup and Operation
General Help Window
Pressing F1 or Alt H on any menu brings up the General Help window that describes the legend keys and their alternates.
The scroll bar on the right of any window indicates that there is more than one page of in­formation in the window. Use Page Up and Page Down to display all the pages. Pressing
Home and End displays the first and last page.
Press Esc to exit the current window.
Main Menu Options
Table Section 2-2 lists and describes the available parameters when the Main menu is se­lected in the legend bar. Other Main Menu parameters are available directly from Main Menu summary window.
Parameters available directly from the Main Menu summary window have a right-pointing triangle next to the parameter. Use the arrow keys to move the cursor to parameter and press Enter to select a submenu.
See the sections following Table Section 2-2 for a description of Main Menu parameters from the summary window.
Table Section 2-2 Legend Bar Main Menu Parameters
Parameter Options Description
System Time HH:MM:SS Sets the system time. System Date MM/DD/YYYY Sets the system date. Diskette A:
Diskette B:
Video System Monochrome
System Memory Automatically detected
Extended Memory Automatically detected
360KB, 5 1/4”
1.2MB, 5 1/4” 720KB, 3 1/2”
1.44MB, 3 1/2”
2.88MB, 3 1/2” Not Installed
EGA/VGA, (default) CGA 80x25
by the system
by the system
Selects the type of diskette drive in the system.
Selects the default video device.
Displays the amount of conventional memory detected at power-on.
Displays the amount of extended memory detected at power-on.
Setup and Operation 2-17
IDE Adapters
IDE adapters control the IDE devices, such as IDE hard disk drives and IDE CD-ROM readers, in the system. The system uses two IDE controllers integrated on the system board.
Setup supports up to four IDE devices, with an IDE adapter for each of the following con­figurations:
1 Master 1 Master, 1 Slave 2 Masters 2 Masters, 1 Slave 2 Masters, 2 Slaves
The master/slave combination for standard desktop configurations with an IDE hard disk and a CD-ROM reader is “2 Masters.” If adding an IDE hard disk to the desktop system, the combination becomes “2 Masters, 1 Slave.”
The master/slave combination for standard configurations with an IDE hard disk is “1 Master.” If adding a hard disk to the fast IDE port (primary channel), the combination be­comes “1 Master, 1 Slave.” Jumper settings on the IDE device set the device to master or slave (see the documentation that comes with the device).
Select the IDE Adapter option configuration directly from the Main Menu summary win­dow. Available options include:
n IDE Adapter 0 Master n IDE Adapter 0 Slave n IDE Adapter 1 Master n IDE Adapter 1 Slave
IDE Adapter 0 configures the fast IDE port (primary channel), IDE Adapter 1 configures the standard IDE port (secondary channel).
Each IDE Adapter parameter has a right-pointing arrow to the left of it. Selecting the op­tion displays IDE hard disk parameters. Select an IDE Adapter option and set parameters for each hard disk separately.
Use the following table to configure the hard disk. If the IDE hard disk features auto IDE type detection, select the Autotype Fixed Disk parameter. The system then automatically detects the hard disk type and sets the remaining parameters.
2-18 Setup and Operation
Table Section 2-3 IDE Hard Disk Parameters
Parameter Options Description
Autotype Fixed
Disk
Type 1 to 39 User Selecting 1 to 39 fills in all remaining fields with
Heads 1 to 64 Specifies number of read/write heads. Sectors/Track 1 to 63 Specifies number of sectors per track. Landing Zone* 1 to 2048 Specifies number of cylinder specified as the
Write Precomp* 1 to 2048
*IDE drives do not require setting Landing Zone and Write Precomp.
Automatically detected by the system
None
Pressing Enter causes the system to attempt to detect the hard disk type. If successful, Setup fills in the remaining fields on this menu and disk parameters need not be selected.
values for predefined disk type. “User” prompts user to fill in remaining fields.
landing zone for the read/write heads. Specifies number of the cylinder at which to
change the write timing.
Memory Shadow
For memory shadowing parameters, select “Memory Shadow” directly from the Main Menu summary window. See the following table for a description of Memory Shadow pa­rameters.
CAUTION: Incorrect settings can cause the system to malfunction.
Table Section 2-4 Memory Shadow Parameters
Parameter Options Description
System shadow Not user-
selectable
Video shadow Not user-
selectable
Shadow Memory
Regions
Enabled Disabled
Always enabled. Shadows video BIOS and improves performance.
Always enabled. Shadows video BIOS and improves performance.
Default is disabled. Shadows optional ROM located in specified segments of memory and can
improve performance. CAUTION: Some add-in cards, particularly with on-board firmware, do not work properly when shadowed.
Setup and Operation 2-19
Boot Sequence
The system might require a Supervisor password to set Boot Sequence parameters. Select “Boot Sequence” directly from the Main Menu summary window to display the “Boot Op­tions” menu.
Use the legend keys to make the selections and exit to the Main Menu. Use the following table to select the boot options.
Table Section 2-5 Boot Parameters
Parameters Options Description
Boot sequence A: then C: (default)
C: then A: C: only
Setup prompt Enabled (default)
Disabled
POST errors Enabled (default)
Disabled
Floppy check Enabled (default)
Disabled
Summary screen Enabled (default)
Disabled
Last Boot Fail 2 – 5
Disabled (default)
The BIOS attempts to load the operating system from the disk drives in the sequence selected here.
“C: only” (under Supervisor password control) provides virus protection.
Displays “Press<F2> for Setup” during bootup.
At boot error, pauses and displays “Press <F1> to resume, <F2> for Setup”.
Seeks diskette drives during bootup. Disabling speeds boot time.
Describes system configuration at the end of bootup.
Number of times the system an fail to boot before the boot fail message appears.
Numlock
Select “Numlock” directly from the Main Menu summary window to display the Keyboard Features menu.
Use the legend keys to make the selections and exit to the Main Menu. Use the following table to configure the keyboard parameters.
2-20 Setup and Operation
Table Section 2-6 Numlock Parameters
Parameters Options Description
Numlock Auto (default)
On Off
Keyboard auto-
repeat rate
Keyboard auto-
repeat delay
Key Click Enabled
Fast (default) Medium Slow
1/4 sec 1/2 sec (default) 3/4 sec 1 sec
Disabled (default)
On or Off turns NumLock on or off at bootup. Auto turns NumLock on if it finds a numeric key pad.
Sets the delay time after the key is held down and before it begins to repeat the keystroke.
Turns audible key click on or off.
Advanced Menu
Accessing the Advanced menu might require a Supervisor password. Selecting “Ad­vanced” from the menu bar on the Main Menu displays a menu with the following options:
n Integrated Peripherals n Parity n Large Disk Access Mode.
The following sections describe Advanced menu options.
CAUTION: Setting items in this menu to incor- rect values can cause the system to malfunction.
Integrated Peripherals Menu
Select “Integrated Peripherals” menu on the Advanced Menu to configure the connections between the system processor and the I/O ports (serial port 1, serial port 2, and the printer port), the diskette drives, and hard disk controllers.
NOTE: A Supervisor password might be re- quired to select parameters from the Integrated Peripherals menu.
Setup and Operation 2-21
Use the legend keys to make the selections and exit to the Main Menu. Use the following table to configure the peripherals:
Table Section 2-7 Integrated Peripherals Parameters
Feature Options Description
COM1 port
COM2 port
LPT port Disabled
Diskette
Controller
IDE Controller Enabled (default)
Local bus IDE
controller
Disabled User-selectable settings Auto
378, IRQ 7 (default) User-selectable settings Auto
Enabled (default) Disabled
Disabled Enabled (default)
Disabled
Selects a unique address and interrupt request for the listed COM ports. Auto selects the next available combination.
COM1 default: 3F8, IRQ4 COM2 default: 2F8, IRQ3
COM port settings must match system board JP9A and JP9B jumper setting, later in this section.
Selects a unique address and interrupt request for the LPT port. Auto selects the next available combination.
The LPT port setting must match the system board JP9C jumper setting, later in this section.
Enables the on-board diskette drive controller.
Enables the on-board standard IDE controller (secondary channel).
Enables the on-board fast IDE controller (primary channel).
Parity
The Parity option in the Advanced menu controls system memory parity checking. The de­fault setting for the U.S. and Canada is “Disabled.” This parameter might require a Super­visor password.
2-22 Setup and Operation
Large Disk Access Mode
Select the Large Disk Access Mode parameter when configuring a large disk (see Table Section 2-8).
Use the legend keys to make the selections and exit to the Main Menu.
Table Section 2-8 Large Disk Parameters
Parameter Options Description
Large Disk Mode DOS
Other
Select DOS when using DOS. Select other when using another operating system such as UNIX.
A large disk is one that has more than 1024 cylinders, more than 16 heads, or more than 63 tracks per sector.
Security Menu
Selecting “Security” from the Main Menu displays a menu with system security options.
NOTE: Enter the Setup program with either a User or Supervisor password. However, more Setup choices are available with the Supervisor password.
CAUTION: The features set in the Security menu affect the features that appear on the Secu­rity menu as well as on other Setup menus.
Enabling “Supervisor Password” requires a password for entering Setup. Passwords are not case sensitive.
Pressing Enter at either Set Supervisor Password or Set User Password on the menu dis­plays a Set Password dialog box with the following prompts:
Enter new password: [ ] Re-enter new password: [ ]
To set a password, type the password and press Enter. Reenter the password and press
Enter.
Setup and Operation 2-23
See Table Section 2-9 for a description of the security features. Use the legend keys to make the selections and exit to the Main Menu.
Table Section 2-9 System Security Options
Feature Options Description
Supervisor Password Disabled (default)
Enabled
Set Supervisor
Password
User Password Disabled (default)
Set User Password Up to seven
Password on boot Disabled (default)
Diskette access Supervisor
Up to seven alphanumeric characters
Enabled
alphanumeric characters
Enabled
(default) User
Must set to enabled to set a Supervisor password.
Pressing Enter displays dialog box for entering the supervisor password. This password gives FULL access to Setup menus.
Must set to enabled to set a User password.
Pressing Enter displays the dialog box for entering the user password. This password gives RESTRICTED access to Setup menus. Requires prior setting of Supervisor password.
Enabled requires a password on boot (cold boot only — no password required for warm boot). Requires prior setting of the Supervisor and/or User password.
If disabled, password(s) are required for entering Setup but are not required for booting.
If Supervisor password is set and this option is disabled, the BIOS boots without asking for a password.
Supervisor restricts use of diskette drives to supervisor. Requires setting the Supervisor password.
Fixed disk boot
sector
System backup
reminder Virus check
reminder
Normal (default) Write Protected
Disabled (default) Daily Weekly Monthly
Write protected helps prevent viruses. When write protected, operating systems (and viruses and application programs) which attempt to modify the boot sector will not be able to do so.
When a schedule is specified, displays a message during bootup asking (Y/N) the system has been backed up or scanned for viruses.
Message returns on each boot until “Y” is responded.
Daily displays the message on the first boot of the day, weekly on the first boot after Sunday, and monthly on the first boot of the month.
2-24 Setup and Operation
Power Menu
Selecting “Power” from the menu bar displays a screen with the power management pa­rameters described in the following table.
A power-management system reduces the amount of energy used after specified periods of inactivity. The Power menu supports a Full On state, a Standby state with partial power re­duction, and a Suspend state with full power reduction.
Use the Power menu to specify the settings for Power Management. Use the legend keys to make the selections and exit to the Main Menu. Use the following
chart in making the selections.
Table Section 2-10 Power Management Parameters
Feature Options Description
APM Enabled (default)
Disabled
Power
Management Mode
Suspend
Timeout
Fixed Disk
Timeout
Video off in
Standby
Standby CPU
speed
Parallel Port
Activity
Disabled Customize (default) Maximum Medium Minimum
Disabled (default) User selectable
Disabled (default) User selectable
Enabled (default) Disabled
Max (default) High Medium Low
Disabled (default) Enabled
APM (advanced power management) allows APM-aware software to better manage power savings.
Maximum, Medium, and Minimum set power­management options with predefined values. Select Customize to select the level of power management.
Disabled turns off power management when the appropriate power statement is modified in the CONFIG.SYS file (see the following procedure).
Inactivity period required after Standby to Suspend (maximum power shutdown).
Inactivity period of fixed disk required before standby (motor off).
Controls power to the monitor. Enabled turns off the monitor in Standby mode. Disabled leaves monitor power on in Standby mode.
Sets the processor speed during Standby.
Enables parallel port activity by resetting the timer and bringing the system to full power when it is in a low power management mode.
Serial Port
Activity
IRQ0...IRQ15 Disabled
Disabled (default) Enabled
Enabled
Enables serial port activity by resetting the timer and bringing the system to full power when it is in a low power management mode.
During Suspend, enabled IRQ turns on processor clock.
Setup and Operation 2-25
Exit Menu
Selecting “Exit” from the menu bar displays the following exit options:
n Save Changes & Exit n Discard Changes & Exit n Get Default Values n Load Previous Values n Save Changes.
The following sections describe each of the options on the Exit Menu. Note that Esc does not exit this menu. Select one of the items from the menu or menu bar to exit.
Save Changes & Exit
After making the selections on the Setup menus, always select Save to make them opera­tive.
Unlike standard RAM memory, NVRAM is sustained by an onboard battery when the sys­tem off.
After saving the selections, the program displays this message:
Changes have been saved Press <space> to continue
A prompt appears if attempting to exit without saving, During bootup, Setup attempts to load the values saved in NVRAM. If the values saved in
NVRAM cause the system boot to fail, reboot and press F2 to enter Setup. In Setup, the de­fault values (as described below) can be loaded or change the values that caused the boot to fail.
Discard Changes & Exit
Use this option to exit Setup without recording any changes.
2-26 Setup and Operation
Get Default Values
To load all the default Setup values in the Setup menus, select Load ROM Default Values from the Main Menu. The program displays this message:
Default values have been loaded Press <space> to continue
If, during bootup, the BIOS program detects a problem in the integrity of values stored in NVRAM, it displays these messages:
System CMOS checksum bad - run SETUP Press <F1> to resume, <F2> to Setup
The CMOS values have been corrupted or modified incorrectly, perhaps by an application program that changes data stored in CMOS.
Press F1 to resume the boot or F2 to run Setup with the ROM default values already loaded into the menus. Other changes can be made before saving the values to NVRAM.
Load Previous Values
During a Setup session, if a mistake has been made and has not yet saved to NVRAM, the previously saved NVRAM values can be restored.
Selecting Load Previous Values on the Exit menu updates all the selections and displays this message:
Previous values have been loaded Press <space> to continue
Save Changes
Save Changes saves all the selections without exiting Setup. Other menus selections can be reviewed or changed.
Setup and Operation 2-27
BIOS UPDATE UTILITY
The NEC Bulletin Board Service (BBS) provides users with information about system software and hardware. Use the NEC BBS to obtain the latest version of the BIOS Update utility (BUU) and for VGA video drivers.
To log onto the NEC BBS, follow these steps:
NOTE: First time users must answer a new user questionnaire.
1. From the Windows Program Manager, select Accessories and double click on
Terminal.
2. From the Settings menu, select Communications and check that the settings
match the following BBS parameters:
n Baud rate: 2400 bps n Parity: none n Data bits: 8 n Stop bits: 1
3. Log onto the BBS:
n Click on the Phone menu item. n Enter the BBS phone number 508 635-4706. n Click on “OK.”
4. Press Enter twice.
5. Enter your first name, last name, and password. Press Enter after each.
6. Follow the screen prompts until the NECTECH Main Menu is displayed. The
prompts require that you do the following:
n Press S and then Enter n Press S and then Enter n Press Enter three times.
7. At the NECTECH Main Menu, press F and Enter for the file menu.
2-28 Setup and Operation
To hang up and log off, follow these steps at the NEC Technologies Bulletin Board:
1. Press Enter (to continue).
2. Press G (command for Goodbye/Hangup).
3. Press Enter.
SYSTEM BOARD JUMPERS
This subsection provides jumper setting information for the system board. Situations that require changing jumper settings include the following:
n adding secondary cache to the system n upgrading the processor n forgetting the system password.
CAUTION: Jumpers are set correctly at the factory.
Only change (or check) the appropriate jumper setting if adding secondary cache, forgot the password, or upgrading the processor. Other­wise, keep the jumpers at their factory settings.
The following figures show jumper locations on the system board and a description of jumper settings. Use the procedures that follow the figures to change jumper settings or to clear a forgotten password.
Setup and Operation 2-29
Figure Section 2-10 System Board Jumpers
Figure Section 2-11 Password Clear Jumper
2-30 Setup and Operation
Figure Section 2-12 Secondary Cache Jumpers
Figure Section 2-13 Processor Clock Speed Jumper
Figure Section 2-14 Processor Voltage Jumpers
Setup and Operation 2-31
Figure Section 2-15 Jumpers JP3 through JP9, JP11, JP21 through JP23
Changing Jumper Settings
To change system board jumper settings, use the following procedure. Use needle-nose pli­ers to move a jumper.
CAUTION: If system conditions require dis- abling the password, see the following section “Clearing the Password.”
1. Power off and unplug the system and any external options.
WARNING: The system power must be off be- fore changing a jumper setting.
2. Remove the system unit cover (see Section 3).
2-32 Setup and Operation
3. Locate the jumper on the system board (see the figures earlier in this subsection).
4. If required, remove any installed expansion boards to access the jumper (see
“Board Removal” in Section 3).
5. Change the jumper setting by lifting the plastic block and placing it on the appro-
priate pins.
6. Replace any removed expansion boards (see “Board Installation” in Section 3).
7. Replace the system unit cover (see Section 3).
Clearing the Password
Use the following procedure to disable the current password and to set a new one.
1. Turn off and unplug the system and any external options.
2. Remove the system unit cover (see “Removing the Cover” in Section 3).
3. Locate jumper JP2 on the system board (see Figure Section 2-11 earlier in this
section).
4. If required, remove any installed expansion boards to access the jumper (see
“Board Removal” in Section 3).
5. Set a jumper on the JP2 pins 1 and 2.
6. Replace the system unit cover (see Section 3).
7. Connect system power cables and external options.
8. Power on the system.
9. Power off the system and unplug the system and any external options.
10. Remove the jumper block from the JP2 block.
11. Replace any removed expansion boards (see “Board Installation” in Section 3).
12. Replace the system unit cover (see Section 3).
13. Run Setup to set a new password (see “Security Menu” earlier in this section).
Section 3

Options

This section provides installation instructions for adding the following expansion options for the desktop and minitower systems.
n expansion boards n SIMM upgrade kits n secondary cache n video DRAM n processor upgrades, such as an OverDrive processor n storage devices, such as hard disks, CD-ROM readers, and diskette drives n external peripherals, such as a printer or serial device.
All options except for the monitor require that the system unit top cover be removed. When installing the monitor, turn to the “NEC SVGA Monitor” subsection.
When disassembling the system unit for option installation, follow these general rules.
n Disconnect all peripherals. n When handling boards or chips, touch the system unit frame to discharge static. n Do not disassemble parts other than those specified in the procedure. n All screws are Phillips-head, unless otherwise specified. n Label any removed connectors. Note where the connector goes and in what posi-
tion it was installed.
WARNING: Unplug the power cord before dis­assembling the system unit. Voltage is present inside the system unit even after the power switch is turned off. All voltage is removed only when the power cord is unplugged.
If a fault occurs after completing the option installation, verify that the installation was per­formed correctly. One beep indicates that the computer has completed its power-on self­test. If intermittent beeping occurs or the option is not operating properly, turn off the com­puter and try again. If the problem persists, see “Troubleshooting” in Section 4.
3-2 Options
DESKTOP COVER REMOVAL
Remove the desktop cover as follows.
1. Power off and unplug the keyboard, mouse, power and all other peripheral cables
attached to the system unit.
2. Remove the two cover screws.
Figure Section 3-1 Desktop Cover Screws
3. Slide the top cover toward the rear about one inch.
4. Lift the top cover up and off.
Figure Section 3-2 Removing the Desktop Cover
MINITOWER COVER REMOVAL
Remove the minitower cover as follows.
1. Power off and unplug the keyboard, mouse, power cord and all other peripheral
cables attached to the system unit.
2. Remove the three cover screws.
Options 3-3
Figure Section 3-3 Minitower Cover Screws
3-4 Options
3. Pull the top cover about two inches toward the front of the unit.
4. Lift the top cover up and aff the system unit.
Figure Section 3-4 Removing the Minitower Cover
EXPANSION BOARD(S)
The desktop system has four expansion slots, the minitower system has five expansion slots:
n three ISA slots in the desktop system, four ISA slots in the minitower system n one shared PCI/ISA slot.
ISA expansion slots support industry-standard 8-bit or 16-bit expansion boards. The PCI/ISA slot also supports PCI expansion boards.
PCI expansion boards run at the system’s processor speed. The PCI bus handles 32 bits of data at a time, being wider as well as faster than the standard ISA bus. PCI boards can send and receive data much faster which boosts system performance.
Desktop Expansion Board Installation
Install expansion boards into the desktop system as follows.
1. Remove the top cover as previously described.
2. Remove the expansion slot screw and cover. Save the expansion slot cover in the
event the expansion board is removed in the future.
To remove the expansion slot cover on the inside of the PCI/ISA backboard, re-
move the expansion slot screws shown in Figure Section 3-6.
Options 3-5
Figure Section 3-5 Desktop Expansion Slots
Figure Section 3-6 Inside Expansion Slot Screw
3-6 Options
3. When removing an expansion slot cover from the inside of the PCI/ISA-Bus
backboard, separate the expansion slot L-bracket from the expansion slot cover by removing the screw shown in Figure Section 3-7.
Reattach the L-bracket to the expansion board being installed.
Figure Section 3-7 Removing the L-Bracket
4. Install the expansion board into an expansion slot connector. When installing a
full-size expansion board, make sure that the expansion board slides into the guide rail at the front of the system unit.
NOTE: A full-size expansion board cannot be installed into the inside expansion slots.
5. Reinstall the expansion slot screw to secure the expansion board.
6. Connect any expansion board cables.
7. Replace the top cover.
Minitower Expansion Board Installation
Install expansion boards into the minitower system unit as follows.
1. Remove the top cover as previously described.
2. Remove the expansion slot screw and cover. Save the expansion slot cover in the
event the expansion board is removed in the future.
Options 3-7
Figure Section 3-9 Minitower Expansion Slots
3. Install the expansion board into an expansion slot connector. When installing a
full-size expansion board, make sure that the expansion board slides into the guide rail at the front of the system unit.
4. Reinstall the expansion slot screw to secure the expansion board.
5. Connect any expansion board cables.
6. Replace the top cover.
3-8 Options
SIMM UPGRADE KITS
The system board comes standard with 8 MB of memory (16 MB in desktop multimedia systems). Memory over the first megabyte of RAM is extended RAM. SIMM upgrade kits are 70-ns SIMMs.
NOTE: The metal plating on the SIMM stick connectors must match the metal plating in the SIMM sockets of the computer. Use tin-plated SIMM sticks with tin-plated SIMM sockets.
Memory expansion options include the following kits.
n 4-MB SIMM kit is a 1 MB x 32 bit SIMM stick. n 8-MB SIMM kit is a 2 MB x 32 bit SIMM stick. n 16-MB SIMM kit is a 4 MB x 32 bit SIMM stick. n 32-MB SIMM kit is a 8 MB x 32 bit SIMM stick.
The system board also supports 36-bit parity SIMMs. SIMM sticks install in two sockets on the system board. The system supports up to 64 MB
of high-speed memory. Different size SIMMs may be intermixed. Use the following procedures to install a SIMM stick.
CAUTION: Static discharge can damage SIMM components. Heed the cautions in the following section.
Cautions
Always remove a SIMM from its shipping material carefully. Static discharge can damage SIMM components. Take the following precautions when handling SIMMs:
n Avoid carpets in cool, dry areas. n Do not remove the SIMM from its anti-static packaging until installing it. n Before handling a SIMM, discharge any static electricity by touching a grounded
metal object, such as the metal frame inside the system unit.
n Always hold a SIMM by its edges. Avoid touching the components on the
SIMM.
Options 3-9
SIMM Installation
Use the following procedures to install SIMMs in the system.
Checking the Memory in the System
Use the following procedure to locate SIMM sockets and to check the memory configura­tion in the system.
1. Remove the top cover and any expansion boards covering the socket as previ-
ously described.
2. Locate the two SIMM sockets, SIMM socket 1 and SIMM socket 2, on the sys-
tem board.
Figure Section 3-9 Locating SIMM Sockets In The Desktop
3-10 Options
Figure Section 3-10 Locating SIMM Sockets In the Minitower
3. Check the memory configuration that is presently in the system. Multimedia sys-
tems with a DX4 processor (such as PowerMate V4100 multimedia models) ship with 16 MB of memory; other systems ship with 8 MB of memory.
For optimized performance, fill SIMM sockets according to the following table using 4-MB, 8-MB, 16-MB, and 32-MB sticks.
Table Section 3-1 Memory Configurations
Total Memory SIMM Socket 1 SIMM Socket 2
4 MB 4 MB Empty 8 MB
8 MB*
12 MB
12 MB
16 MB
16 MB**
20 MB
20 MB
24 MB
24 MB
4 MB
8 MB
8 MB
4 MB
8 MB
16 MB
4 MB
16 MB
8 MB
16 MB
4 MB
Empty
4 MB
8 MB
8 MB
Empty
16 MB
4 MB
16 MB
8 MB
32 MB
32 MB
16 MB
32 MB
16 MB
Empty
Table Section 3-1 Memory Configurations
Total Memory SIMM Socket 1 SIMM Socket 2
Options 3-11
36 MB
36 MB
40 MB 8 MB 32 MB
48 MB
48 MB
64 MB
64 MB
4 MB
32 MB
16 MB
32 MB
32 MB
64 MB
* Standard configuration for all systems except multimedia
systems with a DX4 processor.
** Standard configuration for all multimedia systems with a
DX4 processor.
Installing SIMMs
Use the following procedure to install SIMM sticks.
NOTE: If you remove the IDE and floppy cable from the system board to get better access to SIMM sockets, note where pin #1 is located.
32 MB
4 MB
32 MB
16 MB
32 MB
Empty
1. Remove the SIMM in SIMM socket 1:
NOTE: If installing a SIMM in socket 2, first remove the SIMM in socket 1. SIMM socket 1 must be empty before accessing socket 2.
3-12 Options
n Press the metal clips at the outer edges of the socket away from the SIMM. n Push the SIMM away from the locking tabs and remove it from the socket.
2. Install a SIMM as follows.
Figure Section 3-11 Removing a SIMM
CAUTION: Before installing a SIMM, reduce static discharge by touching the system’s metal chassis.
n Locate the notched end of the SIMM.
Figure Section 3-12 Locating the Notched End of the SIMM
Options 3-13
n Locate the appropriate SIMM socket. n Align the notched end of the SIMM with the correct end of the SIMM socket
(see the following figure).
n Insert the SIMM at an angle into the socket. n Carefully tilt the SIMM towards the locking tabs. Using equal pressure at the
ends of the SIMM, push it until it locks under the metal clips at the ends of the socket.
Figure Section 3-13 Inserting the SIMM
3. Replace any removed expansion boards and the system unit cover.
4. Connect external peripherals and power cables.
5. Power on the system.
If there is a discrepancy in the amount of memory that the Power-On Self-Test finds with the amount of memory that was installed, check that the SIMM sticks are installed correctly. If the problem persists, see Section 4, Troubleshooting.
3-14 Options
SECONDARY CACHE
Secondary cache increases system performance. The system supports the addition of 256 KB of secondary cache. The system requires the following cache module options:
n one 32-KB by 8-bit tag cache module (28-pin) n four 64-KB by 8-bit cache modules (32-pin).
Use the following steps to install the secondary cache modules.
1. Remove the system unit cover and any expansion boards covering the cache
socket as previously described.
2. Locate the cache module sockets on the system board.
NOTE: In the desktop system, the 3 1/2-inch drive bracket might have to be removed to ac­cess the tag cache socket.
To remove the 3 1/2-inch drive bracket, see “In­stalling a Storage Device in the Desktop” later in this chapter.
Figure Section 3-14 Locating the Cache Sockets in the Desktop
Options 3-15
Figure Section 3-15 Locating the Cache Sockets in the Minitower
3. Install the tag cache module as follows.
n Locate the notched end of the cache module. n Align the notched end of the module with the notched end of the tag cache
socket.
Figure Section 3-16 Aligning the Cache Module
3-16 Options
n Partially insert the module pins into the socket holes. Check that all pins are
correctly inserted into the holes and that none are bent.
n Using equal pressure at the ends of the cache module, push it downwards un-
til it is fully seated in the socket.
CAUTION: Pins bend and break easily. To avoid bending any pins during insertion, use equal pressure on both ends of the module.
Figure Section 3-17 Installing the Cache Module
4. Repeat step 3 to install the other four cache modules.
5. Configure the system for 256 KB of secondary cache by setting the following
jumpers on the system board:
n JP16 — set a jumper on pins 2 and 3. n JP17 — set a jumper on pins 1 and 2.
See Section 2 to locate and set the JP16 and JP17 Secondary Cache jumpers.
6. Replace any removed expansion boards and the system unit cover.
Options 3-17
VIDEO UPGRADE
The system comes with 1 MB of video dynamic RAM (DRAM). Video memory can be upgraded by adding two 256-KB by 16-bit video DRAM modules.
The upgrade significantly increases video performance and allows the system to display more colors at higher resolutions.
Use the following steps to upgrade video memory in the system.
1. Remove the system unit cover and any expansion boards covering the video
memory sockets as previously described.
2. Locate the video DRAM sockets on the system board.
Figure Section 3-18 Locating Video DRAM Sockets in the Desktop
3-18 Options
Figure Section 3-19 Locating Video DRAM Sockets in the Minitower
3. Install a video DRAM module as follows.
CAUTION: Reduce static electricity by touch- ing the metal frame of the system unit.
n Locate the notched end of the video DRAM socket (see the following figure). n Align the notched end of the module over the notched end socket. n Carefully insert the video DRAM module into the socket. Using equal pres-
sure, gently press down until the module is fully seated in the socket.
Options 3-19
Figure Section 3-20 Aligning the Video DRAM Module
4. Repeat step 3 to install the second video DRAM module.
5. Replace any removed expansion boards and the system unit cover.
OVERDRIVE PROCESSOR INSTALLATION
The zero-insertion force (ZIF) socket accepts pin-grid-array (PGA) processors, including primary processors, such as 486DX2 and DX4 chips, and OverDrive processors.
Use the following procedures to install the chip upgrades in the system.
CAUTION: Incorrect installation of the chip can damage the chip, system board, or both. Follow the installation instructions carefully.
CAUTION: The system requires a heatsink on the upgrade chip. Heatsinks are available through NEC.
Install an OverDrive processor into the system board as follows.
3-20 Options
1. Remove the top cover and any expansion boards covering the PGA/OverDrive
socket as previously described.
2. Locate the PGA/OverDrive socket on the system board.
Figure Section 3-21 Locating the PGA/OverDrive Socket in the Desktop
Options 3-21
Figure Section 3-22 Locating the PGA/OverDrive Socket in the Minitower
3. Lift the PGA/OverDrive socket lever all the way back and remove the processor
currently installed.
Figure Section 3-23 PGA/OverDrive Socket Lever
3-22 Options
4. Insert the OverDrive processor by aligning the notched corner with inner align-
ment hole of the socket.
CAUTION: Before picking up the chip, reduce static discharge by touching the metal frame of the system unit.
Figure Section 3-24 OverDrive Processor Alignment
5. Set the jumper settings for the installed OverDrive processor (see Section 2,
Setup and Operation).
6. Replace any removed expansion boards.
7. Replace the top cover and run Setup to reconfigure the computer for the Over-
Drive processor (see Section 2, Setup and Operation).
Options 3-23
STORAGE DEVICES
This subsection provides the procedures for installing an optional storage device into the system unit. The system board supports up to two diskette drives and up to four IDE stor­age devices. The optional NEC diskette and hard disk drives are described first, then pro­cedures for installing the devices follow.
Diskette Drive
A 3 1/2-inch diskette drive comes standard with the PowerMate V486 systems. The system ships with a connector cable for a single drive, a replacement cable with two connectors is required when installing a second floppy device. The first diskette drive (3 1/2-inch) is drive A, the second diskette drive (if installed) is drive B.
The diskette drive controller is incorporated into the system board. The controller contains the circuitry and control functions needed to support up to two diskette drives.
Diskette Drive Settings
The standard 1.44-MB diskette drive setting is shown in Figure Section 3-25. The default settings for the optional 1.2-MB diskette drive are shown in Figure Section 3-26.
When installing two diskette drives, both diskette drives are addressed to drive 1. The ter­minating resistor jumper should not be removed from the 5 1/4-inch diskette drive. Both diskette drives (the standard and the optional) are normally terminated.
Signal Connector
Front of Drive
DS SW1
Power Connector
Figure Section 3-25 OSDA-90C, 1.44-MB Diskette Drive
3-24 Options
Figure Section 3-26 FD-55GFR, 1.2-MB Diskette Drive
Hard Disk Drives
There are two IDE interface connectors on the system board supporting up to four IDE de­vices. One system board IDE connector provides a Fast local bus interface. The other sys­tem board IDE connector provides the standard IDE interface. The 3 1/2-inch hard disk drive shipped with the system unit uses the Fast IDE local bus connector. The standard IDE connector on the system board is used by the CD-ROM reader in the multimedia systems.
When installing a second hard disk drive, use the open IDE connector on the cable coming from the Fast local bus system board IDE connector. A hard disk controller board is not re­quired. The IDE drives described in this section are thin-height (1-inch x 3 1/2-inch) drives.
Hard Disk Drive Settings
The following IDE hard disk drives are available for installation in the system. Systems come with a hard disk drive preinstalled in the computer. Jumpers for the drives are set for single drive configurations. Jumper settings and their locations are shown in Figure Section 3-27 and Figure Section 3-28.
NOTE: All NEC hard disk drives are shipped with the jumpers set for: master, one drive in­stalled.
Options 3-25
One drive installed­(Factory Setting)
Two drives installed­Slave
Two drives installed­Master
Cable Select Configuration (Dual Drives)
Figure Section 3-27 WDAC2540, 540-MB Hard Disk Drive
Power Connector
Signal Connector
Front of Drive
C/D
Drive 1 and Drive 2 Master (factory setting)
C/D
Drive 2 Slave
Figure Section 3-28 CFA850A, 850-MB Hard Disk Drive
DESKTOP STORAGE DEVICE INSTALLATION
Use the following procedure to install a storage device in the desktop system. The follow­ing figure shows cable connector connections on the system board and power supply.
NOTE: Do not remove the 5 1/4-inch blank panel when installing a hard disk drive.
A 3 1/2-inch hard disk drive must be mounted in a 5 1/4-inch bracket when installing it in a 5 1/4­inch storage slot.
3-26 Options
Figure Section 3-29 System Board Cable Connections in the Desktop
Options 3-27
Removing the 3 1/2-inch Drive Bracket
Remove the 3 1/2-inch drive bracket from the desktop system unit as follows.
1. Remove the top cover as previously described.
2. Remove the four 3 1/2-inch drive bracket screws (see Figure Section 3-30).
3. Without removing the power and signal cables, place the 3 1/2-inch bracket with
the diskette drive and hard disk drive attached on the power supply.
Figure Section 3-30 3 1/2-Inch Drive Bracket Screws
3-28 Options
Removing the Blank Panel
Remove the front panel assembly from the desktop chassis as follows.
1. Remove the desktop cover and 3 1/2-inch diskette drive bracket as previously
described.
2. Remove the five front panel screws.
Figure Section 3-31 Removing the Indicator Panel
Options 3-29
3. From the inside of the front panel, release the blank panel tabs and remove the
panel.
Figure Section 3-32 Removing the Blank Panel
NOTE: The system unit chassis may also re­quire a slot cover punch-out to be removed.
4. Reinstall the front panel.
Installing the Storage Device
Install the device into the device slot as follows.
1. Remove the top cover, front panel, and 3 1/2-inch drive bracket as previously de-
scribed.
2. Insert the device, connector end first, into the device slot.
3. Connect the device cables as follows:
n If installing an IDE device, such as an IDE hard disk, connect the IDE cable
and power cable.
NOTE: If installing a hard disk, use the IDE ca­ble attached to the fast IDE port (IDE1 connec­tor) for the best performance.
3-30 Options
Figure Section 3-33 Connecting IDE Device Cables
If installing an IDE CD-ROM reader, also connect the audio cable (see the in­structions that come with the reader).
n If installing a 1.2-MB diskette drive, connect the diskette drive signal cable
and power cable.
NOTE: The installation of a second diskette drive requires the removal of the standard two­connector diskette drive cable and the installa­tion of a three-connector cable.
Figure Section 3-34 Connecting 1.2-MB Diskette Drive Cables
4. Secure the 3 1/2-inch device in the slot as follows.
n Align the holes in the device with the holes in the device bracket.
Secure the device to the bracket with the screws that come with the drive. Use
three screws (two screws on one side, one screw on the other side).
Options 3-31
Figure Section 3-35 Securing a 3 1/2-Inch Device to the Bracket
5. Secure the device in the 5 1/4-inch slot using four screws (two on each side).
Figure Section 3-36 Securing the Device in the 5 1/4-Inch Slot
3-32 Options
6. Replace the 3 1/2-inch device bracket in the 3 1/2-inch device slot.
Secure the device bracket in place with the four screws removed earlier.
Figure Section 3-37 Securing the 3 1/2-Inch Drive Bracket
7. Replace the system unit cover.
8. Connect external peripherals and power cables.
9. Run the Setup program to set the new configuration (see Section 2).
Options 3-33
MINITOWER STORAGE DEVICE INSTALLATION
Use the following procedure to install a storage device in the minitower system. The fol­lowing figure shows cable connector connections on the system board and power supply.
NOTE: Do not remove the 5 1/4-inch blank panel when installing a hard disk drive.
A 3 1/2-inch hard disk drive must be mounted in a 5 1/4-inch bracket when installing it in a 5 1/4­inch storage slot.
Figure Section 3-38 System Board Cable Connectors in the Minitower
1. Remove the minitower cover as previously described.
2. Remove the metal slot cover by pushing the cover out of the slot from inside the
system.
Store the slot cover. If the device is removed from the slot, replace the slot cover.
3-34 Options
Figure Section 3-39 Locating the Slot Cover
3. Insert the device into the device slot.
4. Connect the device cables as follows:
n If installing an IDE device, connect the appropriate IDE cable and power ca-
ble.
NOTE: If installing a hard disk, use the IDE ca­ble attached to the fast IDE port (IDE1 connec­tor) for the best performance.
Figure Section 3-40 Connecting IDE Device Cables
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