Epson Apex, User Manual

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Your Apex includes built-in parallel and
serial
interfaces that let
you connect almost any peripheral device to the computer. A
peripheral device is one that you attach to your computer, such
as a printer, mouse, or modem. You can use the parallel interface
to connect an Epson printer or plotter or any other parallel
printer. You can use the serial interface to connect a serial
printer or a mouse.
Your computer comes with version 3.2 of the MS-DOS’ disk
operating system and the GW-BASIC
®
programming language.
An operating system controls how programs run on the com-
puter and supervises all input and output. MS-DOS is one of
the most commonly used operating systems. It supports most
popular software programs available, including those designed
for the IBM” personal computer.
GW-BASIC is simple to learn and provides advanced features
for the experienced programmer.
If you have used MS-DOS or GW-BASIC before, you’ll find
these programs work the same way on the Apex. Check
your Apex MS-DOS or GW-BASIC reference manuals for
descriptions of special features added by Epson.
You can add more devices by installing an
option
curd in one of
the computer’s five option slots. An option card is an installable
circuit board containing a device, such as a modem, or provid-
ing an additional interface to connect other devices. You can
use most of the option cards designed for the IBM PC on your
Apex.
You can also install an optional 8087 math coprocessor to speed
up the computer’s ability to perform calculations. You may want
to add a coprocessor if you frequently use your computer for
spreadsheet or other calculation-intensive applications.
2 Introduction