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EPSON

®

EQUITY

®

 32Osx PlUS

User’s Guide

Summary of Contents for Equity 320SX PLUS

Page 1: ...EPSON EQUITY 32Osx PlUS User s Guide ...

Page 2: ...nsmitted in any form or by any means electronic mechanical photocopying recording or otherwise without the prior written permission of Epson America Inc No patent liability is assumed with respect to the use of information contained herein Nor is any liability assumed for damages resulting from the use of the information contained herein Further this publication and features described herein are s...

Page 3: ...it different from that to which the receiver is connected l Consult the dealer or an experienced radio TV technician for help WARNING The connection of a non shielded equipment interface cable to this equipment will invalidate the FCC Certification of this device and may cause interference levels which exceed the limits established by the FCC for this equipment It is the responsibility of the user...

Page 4: ...t your dealer or local power company Connect all equipment to properly grounded earthed power outlets If you are unable to insert the plug into the outlet contact your electrician to replace your obsolete outlet Avoid using outlets on the same circuit as photocopiers or air control systems that regularly switch on and off Do not locate this product where the cord will be walked on 10 If an extensi...

Page 5: ...erate normally when the operating instructions are followed Adjust only those controls that are covered by the operating instructions since improper adjustment of other controls may result in damage and will often require extensive work by a qualified technician to restore the product to normal operation D If the product has been dropped or the cabinet has been damaged E If the product exhibits a ...

Page 6: ...r ou la compagnie électrique de votre secteur Toutes les connexions électriques doivent être des connexions de sècurite avec contact de terre Si la fiche de sécurité n entre pas dans le socle de prise de courant demander a un electricien de remplacer l ancien socle par un socle neuf Eviter de brancher l ordinateur sur le même circuit que des machines qui se mettent en marche et s arriêtent tour a ...

Page 7: ...qu un liquide a pénétré a l interieur de l appareil C Lorsque l ordinateur ne répond pas normalement aux commandes passées en suivant les instructions Ajuster uniquement les controles décrits dans les instructions il est possible de gravement endommager l appareil en touchant les autres ce qui pourrait nécessiter l intervention d un technicien qualifié pour le remettre en état de marche D Lorsque ...

Page 8: ...Display Adapter Card l 7 4 Connecting a Printer or Other Device 1 8 Using the Parallel Interface l 8 Using the Serial Interface l l1 5 Connecting the Keyboard 1 12 6 Connecting the Mouse 1 13 7 Connecting the Power Cord 1 15 8 Turning On the Computer 1 16 Turning Off the Computer 1 18 Chapter 2 Running the SETUP Program Starting the SETUP Program 2 2 Selecting Options 2 3 Setting the Date and Time...

Page 9: ... l 6 Saving Your Settings 2 16 Chapter 3 Using Your Computer Installing MS DOS or Another Operating System 3 1 Special Keys on the Keyboard 3 2 Stopping a Command or Program 3 3 Resetting the Computer 3 4 Using a Password 3 5 Using Disks and Disk Drives 3 6 How Disks Store Data 3 6 Types of Diskette Drives 3 8 Caring for Diskettes and Diskette Drives 3 10 Write protecting Diskettes 3 12 Using a Si...

Page 10: ...moving the Cover 5 2 Removing the Subassembly 5 5 Replacing the Subassembly 5 9 Replacing the Cover 5 17 Chapter 6 Installing and Removing Options Changing the Jumper Settings 6 2 Setting the Jumpers 6 3 Replacing the Battery 6 5 Installing an Option Card 6 9 Removing an Option Card 6 13 Adding Memory Modules 6 14 Installing Memory Modules 6 15 Removing Memory Modules 6 18 Installing a Math Coproc...

Page 11: ...and Attaching the Mounting Plate 7 10 Installing the Drive 7 l 1 Removing a Hard Disk From the Vertical Position 7 17 Installing or Removing a Drive in the Horizontal Position 7 19 Installing a Drive in the Horizontal Position 7 19 Removing a Drive From the Horizontal Position 7 27 Appendix A Specifications CPU and Memory A l Controllers A 2 Interfaces A 2 Power Supply A 3 Mass Storage A 3 Keyboar...

Page 12: ...cs B 12 Hard Disk Diagnostics B 12 Hard Disk Parameters B 13 Hard Disk Format B 16 Media Analysis B l 7 Performance Test B 18 S e e k T e s t B 18 Read Verify Test B 18 Check Test Cylinder B 19 Force Bad Tracks B 19 Hard Disk Error Messages B 19 Floppy Disk Diagnostics B 20 Performing the Tests B 21 Floppy Disk Error Messages B 22 Miscellaneous Diagnostics B 23 Printer Adapter Test B 23 Communicat...

Page 13: ...6 Keyboard Problems C 7 Monitor Problems C 8 Diskette Problems C 9 Diskette Drive Problems C 11 Hard Disk Problems C 12 Installing the Drive C 13 Preparing the Drive C 14 Accessing Data on the Drive C 14 Software Problems C 15 Printer Problems C 16 Option Card Problems C 17 Mouse Problems C 18 Memory Module Problems C 19 Battery Problems C 19 Math Coprocessor Problems C 20 Glossary Index Xii ...

Page 14: ... as a modem or a network card Your computer can support up to three internal drives either two diskette drives and one hard disk drive or one diskette drive and two hard disk drives Additionally your system offers shadow RAM to speed up processing by moving the ROM BIOS and the video ROM into the RAM area of memory This allows the computer to access and display information faster Optional Equipmen...

Page 15: ...ame with it to install and run it on your computer You can use virtually any application program designed for the IBM PC PC XT PC AT or compatible computers on your Equity 320sx PLUS You may also use powerful 32 bit software designed for 80386 computers with your system VGA Utilities Epson has included special VGA device drivers and utilities that you can use with your built in VGA adapter With th...

Page 16: ...hese as you set up your system Chapter 2 describes how to run the SETUP program to define your computer s configuration Do this before you use your computer You may need to do it again later if you change the configuration Chapter 3 provides instructions for important operating procedures such as using and caring for disks and disk drives Chapter 4 describes specialized features you can use to enh...

Page 17: ...r support and service through a nationwide network of authorized Epson dealers and Service Centers Epson also provides the following support services through the Epson Consumer Resource Center at 800 922 89 11 Assistance in locating your nearest Authorized Epson Reseller or Service Center Technical assistance with the installation configuration and operation of Epson products Epson technical infor...

Page 18: ...sonal computer is easy Just follow the eight steps in this chapter As you set up your system you may want to leave this manual s back cover foldout open so you can refer to the illustrations identifying the different parts 1 Choosing a Location Setting Up Your System 1 1 ...

Page 19: ...f space around the computer so air can move freely Moderate environmental conditions Select a cool dry area and protect your computer from extremes in temperature humidity dust and smoke Avoid direct sunlight or any other source of heat Appropriate power sources To prevent static charges connect all your equipment to three hole 120 volt grounded outlets You need one outlet for the computer one for...

Page 20: ...emove it flip the latch up to pop the card out part way as shown below then pull it out If you have a second 51 4 inch diskette drive be sure to remove the protector card from it Save the protector card If you transport your computer you may want to insert the card into your diskette drive prior to shipping This will protect the read write heads during the shipping process Setting Up Your System 1...

Page 21: ... type of monitor see Using a Display Adapter Card on page 1 7 Using the VGA interface Follow these steps to connect your VGA monitor to the VGA port on the computer 1 Make sure your monitor and computer are turned off 2 Place your monitor on top of or near the computer For easy access turn the monitor and computer around so the backs of both components are facing you 3 If necessary connect the mon...

Page 22: ...r cable and position the plug to match the orientation of the monitor port marked with a monitor icon Then insert the plug into the port as shown below 5 If the connector has retaining screws be sure to tighten them Setting Up Your System 1 5 ...

Page 23: ...6 Plug the monitor power cord into the monitor s power inlet as shown below 7 Plug the other end of the power cord into an electrical outlet 1 6 Setting Up Your System ...

Page 24: ...atched Monitor video card compatibility Monitor Monochrome Color or EGA Monochrome or or color VGA Video card Monochrome display adapter MDA Multi mode graphics adapter MCA Enhanced graphics adapter EGA Hercules graphics card Color graphics adapter CGA Multi mode graphics adapter MGA Enhanced graphics adapter EGA Video graphics array VGA EGA cards support only EGA monitors When you are installing ...

Page 25: ...ace on page 1 4 just insert your monitor connector into the video card port instead of the built in VGA port 4 Connecting a Printer or Other Device Your computer has both parallel and serial interfaces To connect a printer or other peripheral device to one of these interfaces follow the instructions below Using the Parallel Interface The parallel interface on your computer is Centronics compatible...

Page 26: ...rientation of the parallel interface marked with a special icon shown in the illustration below Then plug the connector into the port as shown below If the plug has retaining screws tighten them by hand or with a screwdriver depending on the screw type retaining screws Setting Up Your System 1 9 ...

Page 27: ...to the printer as shown below To secure the cable squeeze the clips at each side of the printer port and push them into place 5 Plug the printer s power cord into a three hole 120 volt grounded electrical outlet 1 10 Setting Up Your System ...

Page 28: ...follow the same steps as above for connecting a parallel device but insert the connector into the serial port marked with a special icon as shown below Note You need to ensure that the serial port is set up so it functions properly If you are using the port for a serial printer you need to redirect printer output to the serial port instead of the parallel port To do this you can use the MS DOS MOD...

Page 29: ...oard cable connector so the indicator on the housing faces up Insert the connector into the appropriate port marked with a keyboard icon as shown Although the connectors and ports for the keyboard and mouse are physically identical they cannot be used interchangeably Be sure to plug the keyboard 1 12 Setting Up Your System ...

Page 30: ...ct a mouse make sure your computer is turned off If your mouse has this type of connector you can connect it to the built in port on your computer If you have a mouse that requires a different interface port you can connect it to the built in serial port or install an option card to provide the interface To connect a mouse to the built in mouse port hold the mouse connector so it is oriented prope...

Page 31: ...d a mouse you may need to add commands to your MS DOS CONFIG SYS file to enable your computer to use a mouse See your MS DOS and mouse manuals for instructions If you want to use a mouse or other pointing device 1 14 Setting Up Your System ...

Page 32: ...into the AC power inlet on the back panel as shown below WARNING To avoid an electric shock be sure to plug the cord into the computer before plugging it into the wall socket 2 Plug the other end of the power cord into a three hole 120 volt grounded electrical outlet Setting Up Your System l 15 ...

Page 33: ...o not leave a beverage near your system or any of its components Spilled liquid can damage the circuitry of your equipment Always turn off the power disconnect the computer s power cord and wait 30 seconds before you remove the cover Only remove the cover to access internal devices add memory change jumper settings or replace the battery Follow these steps to turn on your system 1 Make sure the po...

Page 34: ...t on to make sure everything is working correctly If necessary use the controls on your monitor to adjust the brightness and contrast until characters on the screen are clear and at a comfortable level of intensity If your monitor has horizontal and vertical hold controls you may need to use them to stabilize the display Note If you or your dealer have made a major change to your system such as ad...

Page 35: ...n to Chapter 2 for instructions on running the SETUP program Note If your computer s configuration does not match the information stored in the computer s CMOS RAM defined through the SETUP program you see an error message and a prompt to press the F1 key Press F1 to continue Then run the SETUP program to correct the information See Chapter 2 for instructions Turning Off the Computer When you are ...

Page 36: ...you can run the program any time you turn on or reset your computer You do not need to insert a diskette or access the hard disk SETUP lets you verify or change the following 0 tl cl D 0 Cl 0 P 0 0 Current date and time Type of diskette drives s installed Type of hard disk drive s installed Type of video display adapter you are using Keyboard testing function Shadow RAM function CPU clock speed EM...

Page 37: ...the SETUP Program To start the SETUP program make sure there is no diskette in the diskette drive then turn on your computer If the computer is already on press the RESET button on the front panel to reset it After the computer completes its self test you see the following prompt Press Del to start SETUP As soon as you see this message press the Del key If you do not press Del within five seconds ...

Page 38: ...es how to choose the correct SETUP parameters for your system Setting the Date and Time The real time clock in your computer continously tracks the date and time even when the computer is turned off Once you set the date and time using SETUP you should not need to change either parameter except to adjust the time for daylight savings if necessary The computer automatically changes the date for lea...

Page 39: ...ble selections for your diskette drives A and B P 1 2MB 51 4 inch D 360KB 51 4 inch P 1 44MB 31 2inch 0 720KB 31 2 inch 0 Not installed Check the settings displayed for both drives and correct them if necessary If you have only one diskette drive select Not installed for drive B Note If you do not know the capacity of your diskette drive ask your dealer 2 4 Running the SETUP Program ...

Page 40: ... C D If you have installed another type of hard disk drive you need to select the drive type number that matches your drive See Hard Disk Drive Types below Hard Disk Drive Types If you have installed a hard disk in your computer that is not the standard Epson 100MB drive type 60 you need to select the correct type number to match your drive The following table lists the types of standard hard disk...

Page 41: ...Hard disk drive types 2 6 Running the SETUP Program ...

Page 42: ... Page Down to scroll through the types until you come to 47 USERTYPE 2 Use the numeric keys to enter the appropriate values for these parameters Cyl n the number of cylinders on the disk Head the number of read write heads in the drive WPcom the precompensation cylinder LZone the landing zone the area on which the computer parks the heads when you run the HDSIT program Sec the number of sectors on...

Page 43: ...ines the display adapter the built in VGA port or an optional video interface card in your computer not the monitor connected to it If you have connected your monitor to the computer s built in VGA port select VGA or EGA Otherwise follow these guidelines to select the correct adapter type 0 If you have a color graphics adapter CGA or a multi mode graphics adapter MGA attached to an RGB color monit...

Page 44: ...em board to disable the built in VGA interface If you install one type of display adapter card and then change the type of monitor you are using from color to monochrome or vice versa you also need to set jumper J3 If you have two types of cards set the jumper to match the monitor that is your primary display See Chapter 6 for instructions on changing jumper settings Setting the Keyboard Test func...

Page 45: ...ou have installed a memory card or video card that provides its own shadow RAM in which case you can select just System or just Vi deo Select None if you do not want to use the Shadow RAM function Note Shadow RAM uses 128KB of the RAM available between 640KB and 1MB in your system 384KB If you use the shadow RAM feature 256KB of this memory is available for use as extended or expanded memory If yo...

Page 46: ...plication program manual You can also set the processor to change speed automatically This enables the computer to switch to low speed whenever it needs to access a diskette but run at high speed for all other operations Select Hi gh speed for 20 MHz Low speed for 10 MHz or Auto speed to have the computer switch to low speed automatically when necessary Note You may not want to use the automatic s...

Page 47: ...d there are a variety of other memory managers available If you already have a memory manager such as the one provided with MS DOS you should use that manager along with EMS Size If you do not have another memory manager you can use the EMM386SX SYS memory manager which is on your Reference diskette See Using Memory Beyond 640KB in Chapter 4 for instructions Note Do not use EMS Size to define expa...

Page 48: ...d for your computer skip this section Once you set a password through SETUP you must enter it every time you turn on your computer or reset it by pressing the RESET button If you do not enter it correctly you cannot access your system To set a password move the cursor to the Password option Next to it you see Not i nsta 11 ed If you have already set a password you see I n s t a 11 ed Press Page Up...

Page 49: ...ess the computer the next time you turn it on If you forget your password however there is a way to disable the function See Password Problems in Appendix C for more information C h a n g i n g o r D e l e t i n g a P a s s w o r d If you want to change the current password highlight the Password option and press Page Up or Page Down to display New Ins t a 11 Then enter a new password as described...

Page 50: ...installed an additional port but want to keep the built in port the primary adapter If you have installed an additional port that is pre set to act as the primary port or one that you want to be the primary port select LPTE For example if you have installed an IBM monochrome adapter parallel interface card the parallel port on the card must be the primary adapter and you need to select LPT2 for th...

Page 51: ...te whether you want the port s to be primary or secondary Setting the Disk Drive Controllers If you are using the standard drives that came with your computer the hard disk drive controller HDC and diskette drive controller PDC should be set to Enable However if you install an option card that provides a controller for a diskette drive or hard disk drive you need to disable the built in controller...

Page 52: ...un SETUP Follow the instructions on the screen to run SETUP again to correct it You may need to reset the computer If you have just run SETUP for the first time the next thing you need to do is install MS DOS on your computer See your MS DOS manuals for instructions If you are using a different operating system follow the installation instructions provided with it Running the SETUP Program 2 17 ...

Page 53: ...m After you connect the components of your system and run the SETUP program you must install the operating system on your computer If you are installing MS DOS follow the instructions in your MS DOS manuals If you are installing another operating system such as MS OS 2 or UNIX see the manual that comes with that system for instructions on installing and using it The procedures in this manual assum...

Page 54: ... Keyboard Certain keys on your keyboard serve special functions when your computer is running MS DOS or application programs The special keys are described in the table below Special key functions 3 2 Using Your Computer ...

Page 55: ... upper right corner of the keyboard is on Stopping a Command of Program You may sometimes need to stop a command or program while it is running Many programs provide a command you can use to cancel or even undo an operation If you have entered an MS DOS command that you want to stop try one of the following commands P Hold down the Ctrl key and press C 0 Hold down the Ctrl key and press Break Usin...

Page 56: ...off or reset the computer Resetting the Computer Occasionally you may want to clear the computer s current settings or its memory without turning it off You can do this by resetting the computer For example if an error occurs and the computer does not respond to your keyboard entries you can reset it to reload MS DOS and try again However resetting erases any data in memory that you have not saved...

Page 57: ...sert the Startup diskette in drive A Then turn on the computer Using a Password If you set a password when you ran the SETUP program you must enter it every time you turn on the computer or press the RESET button Follow these steps to use your password 1 If you do not have a hard disk insert your Startup diskette in drive A 2 Turn on the computer or press RESET After the computer completes its mem...

Page 58: ...re for your diskettes and diskette drives Write protect diskettes Use a single diskette drive system Insert and remove diskettes Format diskettes Make backup copies Use a hard disk drive How Disks Store Data Diskettes are made of flexible plastic coated with magnetic material This plastic is enclosed in a square jacket that is either slightly flexible 51 4inch diskette or hard 31 2inch diskette Un...

Page 59: ...f tracks and sectors Double sided double density diskettes have either 40 or 80 tracks on each side and double sided high density diskettes have 80 tracks on each side Diskettes can have 8 9 15 or 18 sectors per track A hard disk consists of two or more platters stacked on top of one another and thus has four or more sides In addition a hard disk has many more tracks per side than a diskette but t...

Page 60: ...se in your computer and which diskettes to use with them cl 0 0 1 44MB drive Use 3 1 2 inch double sided high density 135 TPI tracks per inch 1 44MB diskettes These diskettes contain 80 tracks per side 18 sectors per track and hold up to 1 44MB of information which is approximately 600 pages of text 1 2MB drive use 5 1 4 inch double sided high density 96 TPI 1 2MB diskettes These diskettes contain...

Page 61: ...compatibilities If your computer has more than one type of diskette drive or if you use different types of diskettes you need to be aware of certain incompatibilities between the drives and diskettes Because of the type and size differences you cannot use a 31 2 inch diskette in a 51 4inch drive or vice versa There are also limitations on using diskettes that are the same size as the drive but hav...

Page 62: ...rives Follow these basic precautions to protect your diskettes and avoid losing data 3 a a a a If you have a diskette that contains data you don t want to accidentally write over or erase be sure you write protect it This is especially important for your operating system and application program diskettes See Write protecting Diskettes below for more details Do not remove a diskette from the disket...

Page 63: ... not place anything on top of your diskettes and be sure they do not get bent 0 Carefully label your diskettes and indicate the type and density Attach the label only along the top of a diskette next to the manufacturer s label Do not stick several labels on top of one another this can make it difficult to insert and remove the diskette in the drive P Write on a diskette label before you attach it...

Page 64: ...lete any files it contains If you try to change data stored on a write protected diskette MS DOS displays an error message To write protect a 51 4 inch diskette cover the small rectangular notch shown below with an adhesive write protect tab Write protect tabs usually are included in a new package of blank 51 4 inch diskettes To remove the write protection peel off the write protect tab 3 12 Using...

Page 65: ...he diskette until it clicks into position exposing a hole in the comer write protect switch To remove the write protection slide the switch toward the center of the diskette until it clicks into position and the hole is covered Note Some program diskettes have no notch or switch so they are permanently write protected This protects them from being accidentally erased or altered Using Your Computer...

Page 66: ...n swap diskettes this way it is important to remember which diskette is which It is also a good idea to write protect your original diskette See Write protecting Diskettes above If you have a hard disk and one diskette drive you can load the operating system and application programs from the hard disk create and store your data there and use the diskette drive just for copying data to or from disk...

Page 67: ...g up and the read write slot leading into the drive as shown below slot Slide the diskette into the slot until it is in all the way Then turn the latch down to lock it in a vertical position This keeps the diskette in place and enables the read write heads in the drive to access the diskette When you want to remove a diskette first make sure the disk drive light is off Then flip up the latch and c...

Page 68: ...e until it clicks into place When you want to remove the diskette make sure the drive light is off then press the release button When the diskette pops out remove it and store it properly Caution Never remove a diskette or reset or turn off the computer while a diskette drive light is on You could lose data Also be sure to remove all diskettes before you turn off the computer 3 16 Using Your Compu...

Page 69: ...rams such as your MS DOS Reference and Utility diskettes then use only the copies Store the original diskettes away from your working diskettes Also copy your data diskettes regularly whenever you revise them and store them away from your originals If you have a hard disk you ll probably use it to store the programs and data files you use regularly Keep backup copies of all your files on diskettes...

Page 70: ... to your hard disk you may find yourself trying to organize hundreds of files MS DOS lets you keep related files together in directories and subdirectories so they are easy to find and use See your MS DOS manuals for instructions on managing your files and directories A hard disk must be partitioned and formatted before you can use it Be sure you have performed the procedures in your MS DOS manual...

Page 71: ...for moving If you need to move your computer to a new location you may want to run the HDSIT program provided on your Reference diskette to protect the hard disk during the move HDSIT moves or parks the disk drive s read write heads to a region on the disk surface that does not contain data and locks them securely in position This protects the hard disk from being damaged if the computer is bumped...

Page 72: ...u may want to copy the following two files from the Reference diskette to your hard disk HDSIT COM HDSIT VER Then when you want to run HDSIT just log onto the directory on your hard disk where you stored the files type H DS IT and press Enter See your MS DOS manuals for instructions on using the COPY command If you have a 51 4 inch diskette drive and you still have the original diskette drive prot...

Page 73: ...ommands by listing them in a special file called a batch file When you type the name of the batch file and press Enter MS DOS executes the commands in the file just as if you had typed each command from the keyboard If you have a word processing program that can save a file as a text only file sometimes called an ASCII file you can use it to create a batch file You can also use the MS DOS COPY or ...

Page 74: ...te When your computer is operating at high speed the When your computer is operating at high speed the TURBO light on the front panel is on and it is off when TURBO light on the front panel is on and it is off when operating at low speed operating at low speed You should use high speed for almost everything you do since your programs will work faster However certain application programs have speci...

Page 75: ...installing the program Once it is installed set the speed to high where you should be able to leave it while you load and run the program If this does not work try installing and loading the program at low speed and then change to high speed to run it Do not set the speed to change automatically There are three ways to change the processor speed 0 Run the SETUP program 0 Enter a keyboard command 0...

Page 76: ...e running a program However if the program uses one of the same commands for another function you cannot use it to change the processor speed For example if you are running a program that uses the Ctrl Alt command to move the cursor you cannot enter Ctrl Alt to change the processor speed to low Another alternative is to use the ESPEED program described below The speed setting remains in effect unt...

Page 77: ... If you have a hard disk drive copy the file ESPEED COM from your Reference diskette onto your hard disk and run the program from there For information on how to run the ESPEED program type the following at the MS DOS command prompt and press Enter ESPEED You see this display Format ESPEED No Parm Displays current CPU Speed H Set to High Speed L Set to Low Speed Help Message The message tells you ...

Page 78: ...D command In a batch file You may want to run the ESPEED program by including the command in a batch file For example if you have a program called SLOWDOWN which requires a slower processor speed you could include the following commands in a batch file to start the SLOWDOWN program ESPEED L SLOWDOWN You could name the batch file SLOW BAT Whenever you need to run the SLOWDOWN program insert the pro...

Page 79: ...programs such as Lotus l 2 3 that support the Lotus Intel Microsoft Expanded Memory Specification LIM 4 0 EMS To take advantage of expanded memory you need to use a memory manager to convert the computer s extended memory to expanded memory If you do not have another memory manager you can use the one provided on your Reference diskette EMM386SX SYS Follow the steps given below Note Microsoft Wind...

Page 80: ... line DEVICE EMM386SX SYS For information on optional parameters see Using EMM386SX SYS options below Note You can copy the FMM386SX SYS file to a directory other than the root directory as long as you either enter that directory in a PATH command for example in your AUTOEXEC BAT file or include the pathname on the DEVICE command line For example if EMM386SX SYS is in the directory DRV on drive C ...

Page 81: ...tructions Using EMM386SXSYS options You can include optional parameters in the DEVICE command line to tailor the way the memory manager works The table below summarizes the EMM386SX SYS parameters EMM386SXSYS parameters The D parameter specifies whether you want EMM386SX SYS to run diagnostics on your expanded memory page frame each time you load the program It does not run the diagnostics unless ...

Page 82: ...have installed an EGA or VGA display adapter card you cannot enter the following values for n Ml Ml M2 M2 The P nnn parameter specifies the number of handles or process IDS available to EMM386SX SYS The value for nnn must be in the range of 64 to 256 The default value is 64 The X nnnn nnnn parameter specifies a hexadecimal memory address range to exclude from mapping by Eh4M386SX SYS The first add...

Page 83: ...isplay adapter supports both standard VGA monitors and multi frequency monitors with analog connectors The VGA adapter operates in all standard VGA resolutions without requiring any device drivers However if you are using a monitor that supports extended VGA features you may want to use one or more of the device drivers provided on the Utility diskettes that came with your computer You need to ins...

Page 84: ...g VGAMODE Provides 132 column text in text based programs such as WordStar and WordPerfect SETVGA Sets the built in VGA adapter to emulate the operation of other adapters such as Hercules and CGA adapters SNOOZE Turns off your VGA display when you have not used your computer for a specified period of time The VGA device drivers and utilities are described in the VGA Utilities booklet that came wit...

Page 85: ... when you need to perform these steps Ll Remove the computer s cover P Remove the subassembly D Replace the subassembly 0 Replace the cover Be sure to heed all the cautions and warnings so you do not injure yourself or damage the computer If you have any reservations about performing these steps yourself ask your Epson dealer for assistance drive You do not need to remove it to install or remove a...

Page 86: ... from the electrical outlet and from the back panel Then disconnect any cables that are connected to the computer including the keyboard cable 3 If the monitor is on top of the computer lift it off and set it to one side 4 Turn the computer around so you are facing the back panel The cover is secured by a large screw on the back panel as shown below Turn the screw counterclockwise to unlock the co...

Page 87: ... both latches inward and then lift up the cover from the back panel You might meet some resistance from the g rounding tabs along the inside of the cover latches 6 Pull the cover away from the front of the computer to completely remove it Then set it aside Accessing Internal Components 5 3 ...

Page 88: ...own below to ground yourself and avoid an electric shock WARNING Be sure to ground yourself to the inside back panel of the computer every time you remove the cover If you are not properly grounded you could generate an electric shock when you touch a component 5 4 Accessing Intemal Components ...

Page 89: ...l or remove disk drives or to access the SIMM or math coprocessor sockets on your computer s main system board The subassembly is the large metal casing that holds the horizontal drive bays and the power supply as shown below subassembly Accessing Internal Components 5 5 ...

Page 90: ...r by lifting up slightly on the three clips at the top of the panel and tilting it toward you Then set it aside clips 2 If you have a hard disk drive the drive cable is connected to the main system board on the left side of the subassembly as shown below 5 6 Accessing Internal Components ...

Page 91: ...isconnect it in the same manner 4 To lift the subassembly from the front of the computer place your thumbs under the diskette drive and grasp the top edge of the computer with the rest of your fingers as shown in the following illustration If you have a diskette drive installed in the lower horizontal drive bay place your thumbs underneath that drive instead Accessing Internal Components 5 7 ...

Page 92: ...ow 6 Reach back underneath the subassembly and disconnect the two power supply cables connected to the right side of the main system board as shown below Pull each connector straight up Do not pull only on the cables 5 8 Accessing Internal Components ...

Page 93: ... your work surface Replacing the Subassembly Follow the steps below to replace the subassembly inside your computer 1 Notice that there are four mounting slots on the back of the subassembly two in the upper comers and two in the lower corners Accessing Internal Components 5 9 ...

Page 94: ...e computer which fit into the openings in the subassembly slots tabs Lift up the subassembly from your work surface and lower the back end into the computer guiding the top slots on the subassembly into the top tabs on the computer 5 10 Accessing Internal Components ...

Page 95: ... its left side Then grasp the two power supply cables labelled P4 and P5 Each connector has six pin holes and a large tab on one side as shown below There is one 12 pin power supply socket on the right side of the main system board toward the back that holds both of the power supply connectors as shown below Accessing Internal Components 5 11 ...

Page 96: ...y line up the holes in the connector with the pins in the socket and then push in the connector Caution If you do not correctly align the holes with the pins in the socket you could severely damage your computer when you push in the connector 4 Connect power supply connector PS to the remaining six pins in the socket using the same procedure 5 12 Accessing Internal Components ...

Page 97: ...wer the front of the subassembly onto the computer Make sure that all four tabs on the back of the computer are inserted into the slots on the subassembly as you lower it small tabs Accessing Internal Components 5 13 ...

Page 98: ...curved lip sits over the front of the opening If necessary press on the large tab until the subassembly snaps into place 6 Locate the hard disk drive and diskette drive ribbon cables The hard disk drive cable is slightly longer than the diskette drive cable Look at the back of each drive to make sure you know which cable is which 5 14 Accessing Internal Components ...

Page 99: ...em board on the left side of the subassembly as shown below Both sockets have a notch on one side Connect the diskette drive cable first As shown below there is a tab on one side of the connector diskette drive connector tab diskette drive socket Accessing Internal Components 5 15 ...

Page 100: ...ins you could severely damage your computer when you push in the connector 7 Now connect the hard disk drive cable in the same manner 8 To replace the front panel fit the three ridged tabs on its bottom edge into the three notches on the lower edge of the computer as shown below tabs 9 Tilt up the front panel until the clips on the top of the panel touch the computer Then push on the top of the pa...

Page 101: ...s cover 1 Facing the back of the computer hold the cover so that the side with three tabs on the edge faces away from you as shown below 2 Insert the three tabs into the three notches in the back of the front panel of the computer Accessing Internal Components 5 17 ...

Page 102: ... seal 4 Turn the large screw on the back panel clockwise to secure the cover to the computer 5 Reconnect the computer to the monitor printer keyboard and any other peripheral devices you have Then reconnect the power cable to the back of the computer and to an electrical outlet 5 18 Accessing lntemal Components ...

Page 103: ...hem Memory modules also called SIMMs single inline memory modules allow you to increase the amount of memory in your computer This chapter describes the types and amounts of SIMMs you can use in your computer If you want to install memory modules you may prefer to ask your dealer to do it for you You can however follow the instructions in this chapter to install them yourself Note It is best not t...

Page 104: ...this chapter To change jumper settings replace the battery or install the options mentioned above you must remove the computer s cover You may also need to remove the subassembly See Chapter 5 for instructions You do not need to remove the subassembly to install or remove option cards Changing the Jumper Settings A jumper is a small electrical connector that controls one of the computer s function...

Page 105: ...rmined by where the jumper is placed on the pins It connects either pin A and the middle pin position A or pin B and the middle pin position B as shown below To move a jumper from one position to the other use needle nose pliers or tweezers to pull it off its pins and gently move it to the desired position Installing and Removing Options 6 3 ...

Page 106: ... the jumper pins or damage any surrounding components on the main system board The following table lists the jumper settings and their functions Main system board jumper settings l Factory setting 6 4 Installing and Removing Options ...

Page 107: ...mputer and the CMOS RAM stores the information about your system configuration that was saved by the SETUP program This battery lasts approximately three to five years If it loses power you will see an error message when you turn on or reset your computer Contact your dealer to obtain a replacement battery pack Your dealer can also install the battery for you If you want to replace the battery you...

Page 108: ... these steps to replace the battery 1 The battery is attached to the bottom of the computer case just behind the front panel as shown below To disconnect the battery from the main system board pull up on the connector plugged into socket CNl as shown below 6 6 Installing and Removing Options ...

Page 109: ...p from the bottom of the computer case as shown below Then set it aside 3 Remove the new battery from its package and position it so the Velcro faces down and the cable faces connector CNl Then attach it to the bottom of the computer case as shown below Installing and Removing Options 6 7 ...

Page 110: ...ector CNl 5 Follow the steps in Chapter 5 to replace the computer s cover Then run the SETUP program to reconfigure your system and reset the time for the real time clock See Chapter 2 for instructions 6 8 Installing and Removing Options ...

Page 111: ...orized Epson dealers as well as other vendors This section explains how to install option cards in your computer If you need to remove an option card later to access jumpers memory modules or a math coprocessor see Removing an Option Card on page 6 13 for instructions The illustration below shows the four standard option slots inside your computer Installing and Removing Options 6 9 ...

Page 112: ...slot For example you can place some 8 bit cards in a 16 bit slot However you must follow these guidelines when deciding which slot to use 0 An 8 bit card with an additional tab along the bottom must go into an 8 bit slot P If you install a disk drive controller card place the card as close as possible to the drive it is controlling 0 Some option cards must be installed in a specific slot Consult t...

Page 113: ...adapter card you may need to change the settings of jumpers Jl J3 and J5 See page 6 2 for instructions 2 Remove the retaining screw from the top of the metal option slot cover hold on to the screw so it doesn t fall into the computer Lift out the slot cover Keep the screw to secure the option card to the computer Store the slot cover in a safe place in case you remove the option card later Install...

Page 114: ...ng materials in case you remove the card later Grip the card firmly by the top comers and make sure the connectors point down as shown below Insert the card into the slot guiding it straight down Once the connectors reach the slot push the card downward firmly but carefully to insert it fully You should feel the card fit into place If the card does not go in smoothly do not force it pull it all th...

Page 115: ...d pull it straight up and out of the slot 2 Cover the option slot opening with the original metal cover and secure it with the retaining screw 3 If you are removing an option card that controls a mouse you need to change the setting of jumper J4 on the main system board If you are removing a display adapter card you may need to change the settings of jumpers Jl J3 and J5 See page 6 2 for instructi...

Page 116: ...r you could transmit an electrostatic discharge and damage your components so read this entire section before you begin Before you install SIMMs check the following guidelines to ensure that they will work properly 0 Use fast page mode SIMMs that operate at an access speed of 80ns nanoseconds or faster Be sure all the SIMMs operate at the same speed 0 The Equity 320sx PLUS can use any SIMM that co...

Page 117: ...onfiguration that is not listed below Keep in mind that 2MB of memory is already soldered directly on the main system board SIMM configurations for the Equity 320sx PLUS K 256KB SIMM 1 1MB SIMM 4 4MB SIMM l If you install this amount of system memory only 16MB of it can be used as extended memory Any memory above 16MB must be used as expanded memory t If you install 24MB of total memory on SIMMs t...

Page 118: ...mputer s cover and subassembly as described in Chapter 5 2 The SIMM sockets are located on the front of the main system board near the math coprocessor socket as shown below SIMM sockets SIMM2 math coprocessor socket 6 16 Installing and Removing Options ...

Page 119: ...sition each SIMM so the notch on its edge faces the front of the computer and place lt on the left side of the tabs at an angle as shown below 4 Gently push down on the SIMM and at the same time guide the top of the SIMM to the right until it is vertical post Installing and Removing Options 6 17 ...

Page 120: ...lation Setup on page 6 25 for instructions on configuring your computer for use with your new memory R e m o v i n g M e m o r y M o d u l e s If you need to remove memory modules from your computer have your dealer do it for you or follow the steps below If you remove them yourself check the table on page 6 15 to be sure you remove SIMMs from the correct sockets Caution It is safer to have your d...

Page 121: ...2 The SIMM sockets are located on the front of the main system board near the math coprocessor socket as shown below SIMM sockets SIMM2 math coprocessor socket Installing and Removing Options 6 19 ...

Page 122: ...hey may break tab As you pull away the tabs the SIMM falls to the left When the SIMM is at an angle release the tabs and carefully remove it from the socket 4 Repeat step 3 for each SIMM you need to remove 5 Replace the subassembly and cover as described in Chapter 5 6 Then see Post installation Setup on page 6 25 for instructions on configuring your computer for use with your decreased memory 6 2...

Page 123: ... be sure to read the manual that came with your math coprocessor if you received one Then follow the steps in this section to install it in your computer Before you begin be sure to read all of the instructions and warnings carefully so you do not injure yourself or damage the coprocessor or your computer Caution To avoid generating static electricity and damaging your math coprocessor remain stat...

Page 124: ...s located on the front of the main system board near the SIMM sockets as shown below 4 The math coprocessor socket is hollow and square and has a notch in the lower left comer as shown below notch 6 22 Installing and Removing Options ...

Page 125: ...he coprocessor with the notched corner of its socket The notched sides must be aligned for the coprocessor to operate properly so be sure its position is correct before you go to the next step 5 Gently push the coprocessor into the socket pressing evenly on all sides as shown below Installing and Removing Options 6 23 ...

Page 126: ...r use with your math coprocessor Removing a Math Coprocessor If you need to remove a math coprocessor from your computer contact your dealer for assistance You need a special extracting tool to remove the coprocessor without damaging it Do not attempt to remove it without this tool you can easily damage it Follow the steps in Chapter 5 to remove the computer s cover and subassembly Then remove the...

Page 127: ...xpanded memory see Using Expanded Memory Beyond 640KB in Chapter 4 Also see Post installation Setup below for more information on setting up your computer for use with an option card Post Installation Setup After you install or remove options such as memory modules a math coprocessor or a diskdrive you need to run the SETUP program to update the computer s configuration information For example if ...

Page 128: ... for instructions If you install an optional memory card use the setup program that comes with it to configure the computer for use with the card See your memory card manual for instructions Additionally you may need to add some commands to your configuration files See your MS DOS manuals and the manual that comes with your optional equipment for instructions You may also want to test a newly inst...

Page 129: ...our drive for more information Before you perform any of the procedures described below follow the steps in Chapter 5 to remove the computer s cover and subassembly When you complete your drive installation or removal follow the instructions in Chapter 5 to replace the subassembly and cover Then see Post installation Setup Procedures at the end of Chapter 6 for information about updating your driv...

Page 130: ...ith a hard disk drive already installed in the vertical mounting position If not you can install one 31 2 inch hard disk drive in this position If you are installing your first hard disk drive it is best to install it in the vertical mounting position If you add a second hard disk drive or diskette drive use the lower horizontal drive bay 7 2 Installing and Removing Disk Drives ...

Page 131: ...rames installed on it How to Use This Chapter Before you begin see the table below for a guide to the instructions you should follow first in this chapter Drive installation or removal instruction guide If you are Begin with this section Installing a hard disk drive Setting the Hard Disk Drive or removing one and leaving Jumpers on 7 4 another in the computer Removing your only hard Removing a Har...

Page 132: ...o change the jumper settings on the remaining drive to indicate that it will be the only hard disk drive installed If you install two hard disk drives in your system you must change the jumper settings on each drive to indicate which drive is the master drive and which is the slave drive A master drive is the drive on which you ll install the operating system that the computer loads into its memor...

Page 133: ...circuit large cable connector The jumpers on your drive may be in a slightly different location but you set them the same way There are four positions for the jumpers on each hard disk drive Jumpers are installed in only two of the positions and the other two positions are left open Installing and Removing Disk Drives 7 5 ...

Page 134: ... drive make sure the jumpers are set in positions C D and ACT Then see Installing a Hard Disk in the Vertical Position on page 7 7 for instructions on installing your first hard disk drive If you ll be using two hard disk drives you have a total of four jumpers for eight jumper positions Two jumpers are included with each drive Install three of the jumpers on the master drive in positions C D DSP ...

Page 135: ...sition on page 7 17 so you can access the jumpers on the drive Installing a Hard Disk in the Vertical Position Follow the instructions in this section to install or reinstall a hard disk drive in the vertical mounting position You may need to perform the following procedures P Remove the mounting frames from a new hard disk drive 0 Remove the mounting plate from the computer and connect it to the ...

Page 136: ...Removing the Mounting Frames From the Drive Your hard disk drive comes with 51 4 inch mounting frames attached to each side of the hard disk drive as shown below 7 8 Installing and Removing Disk Drives ...

Page 137: ...he drive 1 If necessary remove the screws securing the plastic guiderail and the metal grounding plate to one of the mounting frames as shown below 2 Remove the four screws securing the mounting frames to the hard disk drive There are two screws securing each frame as shown below Installing and Removing Disk Drives 7 9 ...

Page 138: ...tached to the right side of the subassembly Follow these steps to remove the mounting plate from your computer 1 Remove the screw securing the mounting plate to the computer and set it aside Then lift up the mounting plate to remove it 2 Turn your hard disk drive so the components are facing up and the connectors at the back of the drive are facing to the right 7 10 Installing and Removing Disk Dr...

Page 139: ...hard disk drive kit to secure the mounting plate to the drive Installing the Drive If you are going to install or remove a drive in one of the horizontal drive bays first follow the instructions under Installing or Removing a Drive in the Horizontal Position on page 7 19 Do not install the vertically mounted drive until you finish installing or removing any horizontal drives Installing and Removin...

Page 140: ...up and the ribbon cable and power supply sockets facing the back of the subassembly mounting plate 2 Locate the hard disk drive ribbon cable that came with your computer It is a flat cable with three connectors one on each end and one in the middle If you are installing a second hard disk drive the cable may be attached to the other drive 7 12 Installing and Removing Disk Drives ...

Page 141: ...the cable has two rows of holes one of which is blocked with a plug as shown below The ribbon cable socket on the back of the drive has two rows of pins In one of the rows a pin is missing Installing and Removing Disk Drives 7 13 ...

Page 142: ...e lines up with the row in the socket with the missing pin as shown below Make sure the holes fit over all the pins and then push in the connector If you do not correctly align the holes with the pins you could severely damage your hard disk drive when 7 14 Installing and Removing Disk Drives ...

Page 143: ...otched corners The power supply socket is on the back of the hard disk drive next to the cable you just connected The socket also has two notched comers as shown above 5 Pull the cable through the lower opening in the right side of the subassembly so it reaches the drive socket easily Align the connector with the socket so that the notched comers on the connector line up with the notched comers of...

Page 144: ...s will fit into two slots in the right side of the subassembly Guide the tabs into the slots and tilt the top of the drive toward the subassembly Then align the retaining screw hole on the mounting plate with the hole in the subassembly bracket bracket 7 16 Installing and Removing Disk Drives ...

Page 145: ... position in the following cases 0 You are replacing the drive 0 You are adding a second drive either another hard disk drive or a diskette drive in the lower horizontal position Follow these steps 1 Remove the retaining screw securing the hard disk drive mounting plate to the subassembly and set it aside r e t a i n i n g s c r e w 2 Tilt the hard disk drive slightly to the right and lift it off ...

Page 146: ... drive set it aside and see Installing or Removing a Drive in the Horizontal Position below If you are not going to reinstall the drive go to step 5 5 Remove the four screws securing the hard disk drive mounting plate to the hard disk drive Then remove and store the mounting plate along with the screws 6 Wrap the hard disk drive in its original packing materials 7 Replace the subassembly in the co...

Page 147: ...sing If not see Setting the Hard Disk Drive Jumpers on page 7 4 for instructions If you are adding a 31 2 inch drive you need to make sure that M inch metal mounting frames are attached to the drive so it fits properly in the drive bay Epson 31 2 inch drives come with mounting frames already installed If your drive did not come with frames installed follow the instructions in the manual that came ...

Page 148: ...e in the lower drive bay and slide it toward the back of the subassembly Watch the oval holes on the side of the drive bay so you can see when the holes on the drive are positioned in the middle of them If you are installing a diskette drive adjust its position so that the front of the drive lines up with the drive in the upper bay A hard disk drive fits all the way into the bay 7 20 Installing an...

Page 149: ...f you are installing a diskette drive in the lower drive bay you may want to turn the subassembly upside down and place it on your work surface Then locate the diskette drive ribbon cable one end is connected to the top diskette drive and the other end is free Use the connector in the middle of the cable to connect the second drive As shown in the next illustration there is a large slot in this co...

Page 150: ...with the interface so that the plastic divider on the connector lines up with the gap in the interface as shown below divider Make sure the cable connector fits properly onto the drive interface and then push it onto the interface Then go to step 8 Caution If you do not correctly align the connector you could severely damage your diskette drive when you push it in 7 22 Installing and Removing Disk...

Page 151: ...ach the connector in the middle of this cable to the horizontal hard disk drive As shown below there are two rows of holes in the connector One of the holes is blocked with a plastic Plug Notice the ribbon cable socket on the back of the drive you see two rows of pins In one of the rows a pin is missing Installing and Removing Disk Drives 7 23 ...

Page 152: ...Make sure the holes fit over all the pins and then push in the connector 8 Looking at the subassembly locate one of the power supply cables that lead from the power supply behind the horizontal drive bays The cables are labelled Pl P2 and P3 you can use any one As shown below the end of the connector has two notched corners 7 24 Installing and Removing Disk Drives ...

Page 153: ...rners Position the power supply cable connector so that the notched comers on the connector line up with the notched comers of the power supply socket on your drive Make sure the holes fit over all the pins and then push in the connector Caution If you do not correctly align the holes with the pins you could severely damage your drive when you push in the connector Installing and Removing Disk Dri...

Page 154: ...ically mounted drive Removing a Drive From the Horizontal Position Follow these steps to remove a drive from a horizontal drive bay 1 Remove the disk drive ribbon cable from the back of the drive as shown below power supply 2 Then remove the power supply cable from the back of the drive 7 26 Installing and Removing Disk Drives ...

Page 155: ...ive and are leaving another one in your system make sure you have set the jumpers on the remaining drive to indicate that you now have only one hard disk drive If not see Setting the Hard Disk Drive Jumpers on page 7 4 for instructions 6 If necessary follow the instructions under Installing a Hard Disk in the Vertical Position on page 7 7 to reinstall your vertically mounted drive Installing and R...

Page 156: ...tandard expandable using 256KB lMB or 4MB SIMMs up to 24MB the first 16MB can be extended or expanded memory above 16MB can be only expanded memory SIMM access speed must be 80ns or faster 128KB includes system BIOS and VGA BIOS 0 wait state access speed system ROM BIOS and video ROM can be copied into RAM through SETUP 80387SX 20 MHz support Real time clock calendar and CMOS RAM for configuration...

Page 157: ...I of video memory supports up to 800 x 600 pixels in 16 color or gray scale mode U pin D shell connector Serial RS 232C programmable asynchronous 9 pin D shell connector Parallel Standard 8 bit parallel mono directional 25 pin D shell connector Mouse Mini DIN 6 pin connector for PS 2 compatible mouse or other device Keyboard Mini DIN 6 pin connector for PS 2 compatible keyboard Option slots Four s...

Page 158: ...e drives 51 4 inch diskette drive 1 2MB high density storage capacity 31 2 inch diskette drive 1 44MB high density storage capacity 51 4 inch diskette drive 360KB double density storage capacity 31 2 inch diskette drive 720KB double density storage capacity Hard disk drives 31 2 inch form factor hard disk drive s up to half height size the first mounted vertically second mounted horizontally Other...

Page 159: ...onal 4 key cursor pad 16 function keys user definable Function Four levels normal shift control alternate user definable Environmental Requirements Physical Characteristics Width 14 75 inches 375 mm Depth Height Weight 17 5 inches 444 mm 5 9 inches 150 mm Single diskette drive model without keyboard 20 6 lb 9 4 kg A 4 Specifications ...

Page 160: ...System Memory Map Specifications A 5 ...

Page 161: ...er and monitor Parallel and serial ports By changing settings on the System diagnostics main menu you can run the tests in several different ways You can specify a certain length of time to run a test select to run it continuously until you interrupt it or specify a number of times to run the test If an error occurs during a test note the error message and contact your Epson dealer Your dealer may...

Page 162: ...ain menu described below The Main Menu Screen System board Memory Hard disk Floppy Keyboard Video Misc Basic functionality test CPU protected mode test Processor speed test Coprocessor test DMA controller test Interrupt controller test Timer test Realtime clock test CMOS validity test Bun time parameters Testing mode T imebound C ontinuous P assbound P Walt on error Y N Y Error logging Y N N No of...

Page 163: ... when you first see the main menu because the System board option is selected The Run time parameters window near the bottom of the display lets you specify how you want to run the test s The help window describes how to use these keys to make menu selections and run diagnostic tests A short message describing each test appears at the bottom of the screen Performing System Diagnostics B 3 ...

Page 164: ...de in which to run the test You see this prompt Testing mode T imebound C ontinuous P assbound P In Timebound mode the program runs the tests for the amount of time you specify press T and then Enter In Continuous mode the tests run until you interrupt them press C and Enter In Passbound mode the program runs the tests the number of times you specify This is the default setting press P if necessar...

Page 165: ...formation the program needs to perform the test s If you selected Continuous testing the diagnostics program needs no additional information Instead you see this message in the Run time parameters window Test mode continuous If you selected Timebound testing you see this prompt Period OOl hr 00 min To specify the amount of time you want to run the test s type the number of hours from 000 to 999 an...

Page 166: ... see this submenu Log errors on disk Log errors to printer LPTl Log errors to serial port No error logging Press or to highlight the device on which you want the program to log the error messages and press Enter Press Esc to exit the menu and return to the Error logging prompt If you select No error 1 oggi ng the program changes the error logging response from Y to N If you select the printer LPTl...

Page 167: ...g the tests The program uses this device for error logging until you change it or indicate you do not want error logging When you specify a new device the program erases the existing ERROR LOG file if any When you specify the device for error logging one of these error messages may appear Floppy disk A not present Floppy disk B not present Hard disk C not present Printer port not present Serial po...

Page 168: ...test and press F3 again To run the selected group of tests press F6 The program highlights each test name as it runs the test You can press F4 to select all tests for all devices and press F5 to cancel all selections You cannot run certain tests along with other tests The table below lists the tests that must be run individually Diagnostic tests to be run individually Category Test System board Ti...

Page 169: ...st If you perform the tests more than once the program uses the same parameters for each pass If you selected Passbound testing the program displays the pass number on the right side of the screen above the Run time parameters window For example Pass 00001 If you entered Y at the W a i t on e r r o r prompt the program pauses if an error occurs When you press Enter the program continues testing No...

Page 170: ...ts The table below lists all of the available System diagnostic tests and refers you to other sections in this chapter for additional information if necessary System diagnostic tests B 10 Performing System Diagnostics ...

Page 171: ...Adapter Attribute 80 x 25 display 40 x 25 display 320 x 200 graphics 640 x 200 graphics Page selection Color Tests the keyboard controller Tests the scan codes assigned to the keys Tests the keyboard clock line Tests the keyboard data line Tests the display adapter memory Tests the display adapter attributes Tests the 80 x 25 display Tests the 40 x 25 display Tests the 320 x 200 graphics display T...

Page 172: ...g the memory tests or they will not work properly If an error occurs during a memory test the program displays this message Press Enter to view faulty memory chip Press Enter The program displays a diagram of the main system board and highlights the faulty memory chip Hard Disk Diognostics Hard disk diagnostic tests may be destructive or non destructive Destructive diagnostics destroy data on the ...

Page 173: ... Do you still want to continue Y N Press Y and Enter to begin the test Press N and Enter to stop the operation Caution You should not run any of the destructive tests on a SCSI hard disk drive Hard Disk Parameters The program may ask for the following parameters Disk drive identifier Disk drive type Interleave factor Bad track list Start cylinder number End cylinder number Start head number End he...

Page 174: ...f you need to change the type use or to highlight the drive type that matches your hard disk and press Enter If you select the User defined option type 47 the program prompts you for the following information Number of cylinders Number of heads Number of sectors per track Write precompensation presence Write precompensation cylinder number Landing zone Interleave factor The interleave factor affec...

Page 175: ...try Revise an entry Delete an entry Clear bad track list Save and Exit Use or to highlight a menu option and press Enter Then enter the correct track information When the bad track list is correct highlight Save and Exi t and press Enter Note When you run the Media analysis test the program automatically marks the bad tracks when it formats the disk Start and end cylinder numbers The program displ...

Page 176: ... than the highest head number of your hard disk For example the default end head number for the 40MB disk is 4 After you specify the hard disk parameters press Y and Enter at the Proceed prompt to run the test Hard Disk format The Hard disk format program performs a low level format on your hard disk If your computer came with a factory installed hard disk or if you have installed an optional Epso...

Page 177: ...before you begin Note If you do not enter a bad track list before you format the disk the format program analyzes the surface of the hard disk to determine the bad tracks Media Analysis This test identifies the bad tracks on the hard disk by analyzing the surface of the disk to find them The program uses three different bit patterns formatting the disk marking the bad tracks and displaying the bad...

Page 178: ...e in milliseconds using this formula Seek time timer ticks x 1000 18 2 x 200 The number of seeks is 200 A higher data transfer rate and a lower seek time indicate better disk performance Seek Test This test checks the seek capability of the hard disk on the specified range of cylinders and heads The program performs a series of sequential seeks followed by random seeks and reports any errors Read ...

Page 179: ...ng it Caution The Force bad tracks test destroys any data on your hard disk Hard Disk Error Messages The diagnostics program displays two types of error messages while testing the hard disk messages the program generates and those the controller generates The following message appears if you try to run the Performance Test with less than 128KB of available memory Insufficient memory for data trans...

Page 180: ...und Reset failed Seek operation failed Write fault on selected drive If you see one of these error messages check the drive controller cables and power connectors If you still get an error contact your dealer Floppy Disk Diognostics Floppy disk diagnostic tests may be destructive or non destructive Destructive diagnostics destroy data on the diskette but non destructive diagnostics do not The foll...

Page 181: ... not write protected When the program prompts you to insert a diskette insert the newly formatted one Once the Diskette format test is completed successfully you must use the test diskette to run any of the tests in the following table These tests will not run properly unless the diskette has been previously used for the Diskette format diagnostic test Tests requiring a specially formatted diskett...

Page 182: ...ress Y and Enter at the Proceed prompt to begin the test mess N and Enter to return to submenu Note When you are finished running any of these tests on the test diskette you must reformat it using the MS DOS FORMAT command before you can use it with MS DOS Floppy Disk Error Messages The diagnostics program displays two types of error messages while testing a diskette drive messages the program gen...

Page 183: ...error Record not found Timeout error These errors could occur because of a faulty drive controller or cable or if you attempt to run a test on a write protected or unformatted diskette Miscellaneous Diagnostics These tests are listed in the Miscellaneous diagnostics submenu to provide a complete check of the parallel and serial ports Printer adapter test Comm adapter test Printer Adapter Test This...

Page 184: ...ial RS 232C AT type loopback connector to the port This connector enables the test to send out data and receive the same data back on one line You can purchase the connector from most electronic supply stores Be sure the connector is configured with the following settings Q RD and TD shorted Q DSR and DTR shorted 0 CTS and RTS shorted This test resets the computer to check for possible errors Then...

Page 185: ...act your dealer Exiting System Diagnostics To exit from the System diagnostics program press Est You see the following prompt Do you want to exit diag Y N N Before you press a key remove the Reference diskette from drive A If you do not have a hard disk insert your MS DOS Startup diskette in the drive Then the program You see this message press Y and Enter to exit Stand by while system is rebootin...

Page 186: ... see Where to Get Help in the Introduction Identifying Your System When you request technical assistance be ready to provide the serial number of your computer its ROM BIOS version number its configuration including the type of disk drives monitor and option cards and the names and version numbers of any software programs you are using You can find the serial number on the computer s back panel If...

Page 187: ...contains a series of diagnostics programs called power on diagnostics which your computer runs automatically every time you turn it on These programs check internal devices such as ROM RAM the timer the keyboard controller and the hard disk drive The RAM test program displays the total amount of memory currently installed in your system If the computer finds an error it displays an error message o...

Page 188: ... not come on check the electrical outlet for power Turn off your computer and unplug the power cord from the wall outlet Plug a lamp into the outlet and turn it on to see if the outlet supplies power 3 If you installed or removed any of your system components such as a disk drive check to make sure you have reconnected all the internal and external cables correctly 4 If the electrical outlet is wo...

Page 189: ...ou changed If the computer does not display the MS DOS prompt after five minutes press the RESET button and try again If that doesn t work insert the Reference diskette in drive A and press the RESET button If the computer still does not boot contact your Epson dealer 3 Did you enter the correct password See Password Problems below 4 Could your software be causing the problem If you are running an...

Page 190: ... adapter If you have not set the jumper you will not see any display on the screen You may also need to set jumpers J3 and J5 See Changing the Jumper Settings in Chapter 6 for instructions Password Problems If you set a password using the SETUP program you must enter it before you can use the system When you turn on the computer it runs a memory test Then the screen displays the Enter Password pro...

Page 191: ... prompt 3 When the Press Del to start SETUP prompt appears press Del 4 Highlight Run SETUP and press Enter You see the SETUP menu Follow the instructions in Chapter 2 to either set a new password or select Not Instal1ed if you do not want to set a new password Be sure to save your SETUP information when you exit the program 5 Turn off the computer and follow the instructions under Changing the Jum...

Page 192: ...ke sure the keyboard is securely connected to its port See Connecting the Keyboard in Chapter 1 for instructions 2 If the cursor keys do not work properly the num lock function may be on When num lock is on the numeric arrow keys on the numeric keypad work only as numbers Check to see if the Num Lock indicator in the upper right comer of the keyboard is lit if it is press the Num Lock key to turn ...

Page 193: ...er 4 If you still do not see anything on the screen make sure your monitor is connected to the computer properly See Connecting a Monitor in Chapter 1 for more details Also check the monitor manual for instructions on how to connect it to the computer 5 Make sure your monitor and display adapter match and if you installed a display adapter card be sure any switches or jumpers on the card are set p...

Page 194: ...still having difficulty with your monitor run the Video diagnostic tests described in Appendix B If the diagnostics program indicates an error contact the place where you bought the monitor Diskette Problems If you see an error message or have trouble accessing data on a diskette try the following steps 1 Did you turn down the diskette drive latch on a 51 4inch drive to secure the diskette in the ...

Page 195: ... its side or there may be no notch On a 31 2 inch diskette the write protect switch may be set to the write protect position or there may be no switch You cannot alter data on a write protected diskette Some application programs do not function properly if the diskette is write protected Check the program manual See Chapter 3 for information 6 Is the diskette formatted A new diskette must be forma...

Page 196: ... an application program may have updated the storage information on the diskette incorrectly This is probably the case if you have one of these problems Q Part of a file is missing 0 A file includes parts of other files Cl An expected output file is missing Use CHKDSK to make the necessary repairs see your MS DOS manuals for instructions Diskette Drive Problems If you see an error message or have ...

Page 197: ...disk preparation or corrupted data The suggestions in this section are divided into three categories Cl Installing the drive P Preparing the drive for use 0 Accessing data on the drive Consult the section that seems most likely to cover the problem you are having For example if you have been able to use data on your disk in the past but suddenly cannot see Accessing Data on the Drive Caution If yo...

Page 198: ...cturer A blank new hard disk must be formatted or initialized before you can partition it and install an operating system on it This type of format is usually done by the manufacturer if yours was not you must do it yourself If the drive came with its own format utility use that program if not follow the instructions in Appendix B under Hard Disk Format Note that this physical type of format is di...

Page 199: ... or for another operating system but you do not copy the operating system to the drive you will not be able to load the operating system from the hard disk when you turn on the computer If you are sure the hard disk has been installed properly and you have prepared it for use as described above but you cannot access the drive review the instructions in your MS DOS manuals Make sure you performed e...

Page 200: ... program is stored in a directory on that drive make sure you are logged onto or specifying the correct directory If you don t have a hard disk make sure you have inserted the correct diskette in drive A 2 Your computer can run at either high speed 20 MHz or low speed 10 MHz While almost all programs work properly at the faster speed some must run at the slower speed Check your software manual to ...

Page 201: ...does not work at all check that the printer has power and is properly connected to the computer Also make sure your printer has paper in it See Chapter 1 for instructions or see your printer manual 2 Check the printer manual for the printer s correct DIP switch or control panel settings These settings help a printer communicate properly with the computer 3 If you are using more than one parallel p...

Page 202: ...inter manual for additional instructions on using your printer with application programs 7 Try running the Printer adapter diagnostics test if you have a parallel printer or the Communication adapter test if you have a serial printer Appendix B describes these tests If the test indicates an error contact your printer dealer Option Card Problems If you install an option card and it is not functioni...

Page 203: ... Mouse Problems If you have trouble with your mouse check the following 1 Make sure that your mouse is securely connected to its port on the back of the computer Also make sure you have connected it to the correct port See Chapter 1 for more information 2 If the mouse is connected properly make sure that jumper J4 on your computer s main system board is set correctly for your mouse See Chapter 6 f...

Page 204: ...Memory Modules in Chapter 6 and make sure you followed all the instructions 2 Be sure to run the SETUP program after you install or remove memory modules to automatically update your memory configuration See Chapter 2 for instructions 3 If you are still having trouble with your SIMMs write down any error messages and contact your dealer Battery Problems The battery in your computer is a 3 6 volt l...

Page 205: ...e installed the coprocessor incorrectly See Chapters 2 and 6 for more information Caution Do not attempt to remove the math coprocessor yourself Contact your dealer for information about a special extraction tool that is needed to remove it 2 If your math coprocessor is listed as Instal1ed in the SETUP program but still does not seem to be working check the manual that came with it for troubleshoo...

Page 206: ...I American Standard Code for Information Interchange A standardized coding system for representing characters such as numbers letters and graphic symbols An ASCII character occupies one byte of storage Many different computers printers and programs can use files transmitted in ASCII code Asynchronous A method of data transmission in which one machine sends data one character at a time to another m...

Page 207: ...r main memory Batch file A type of file that lets you execute a series of MS DOS commands by typing one command Batch files are text files with the filename extension BAT When you type the filename MS DOS executes all the commands in that file sequentially BIOS Basic Input Output System Routines in ROM Read Only Memory that handle basic input output functions of the operating system and the video ...

Page 208: ...tters punctuation marks and graphic symbols CMOS Complementary Metal Oxide Semiconductor A type of low power silicon chip Code A system of symbols for representing data or instructions Also any software program or part of a program Command An instruction you enter usually on a keyboard to direct your computer to perform a specific function Command prompt The symbol or message that tells you MS DOS...

Page 209: ...o process certain mathematical calculations faster Copy protected program A type of program that cannot be copied Some copy protected programs require you to leave the program diskette in the drive while you are using it Some also require the computer to be running at low speed 10 MHz instead of high speed 20 MHz See also Automatic speed CPU Central Processing Unit The primary unit of the computer...

Page 210: ... files Default Any value or setting that takes effect when the computer is turned on or reset A default value stays in effect unless you override it temporarily by changing a setting or you reset the default value itself Delimiter A character or space used to separate different parts of an MS DOS command Device A piece of equipment that is part of a computer system and performs a specific task suc...

Page 211: ...rectories Disk The collective term for diskettes and hard disks Disk drive The physical device that allows the computer to read from and write to a disk A diskette drive has a disk slot into which you insert a diskette A hard disk is sealed inside a protective unit Diskette A flat piece of flexible plastic coated with magnetic material used to store data permanently Display adopter cord A circuit ...

Page 212: ... of display adapter card that allows you to display high resolution graphics on a compatible monitor It can display up to 43 lines of text with 80 characters on each line or it can display monochrome or 16 color graphics at resolutions up to 640 x 350 Expanded memory Memory that specially written MS DOS application programs can use with an Expanded Memory Specification EMS device driver such as EM...

Page 213: ...a new disk or an old one you want to reuse so that it can store information Formatting divides a disk into tracks and sectors and creates addressable locations on it Graphics Lines angles curves and other nonalphanumeric data Handle See Process ID number Hard disk The enclosed unit used to store large amounts of data Unlike a diskette it is fixed in place It can process data more rapidly and store...

Page 214: ...sical or software connection used to transmit data between equipment or programs Jumper A small device that connects two pins on an option card a disk drive or the main system board to activate a particular function Key disk A diskette containing a copy protected program that must remain in the diskette drive while you are using the program Kilobyte KB A unit used to measure storage space in a com...

Page 215: ...DA Monochrome Display Adapter A type of display adapter that displays text in only one color such as green or amber Megabyte MB A unit used to measure storage space in a computer s memory or on a disk One megabyte equals 1024KB Megahertz MHz A unit used to measure oscillation frequency of a computer s internal timing clock A megahertz is one million cycles per second The Equity 320sx PLUS operates...

Page 216: ...er A type of display adapter card that can display monochrome text and color graphics on the screen Microprocessor A small version of a CPU contained on one semiconductor Chip Modem A device that allows a computer to transmit signals over telephone lines so it can send and receive data Modem stands for MOdulator DEModulator The piece of hardware that contains the screen and displays information Mo...

Page 217: ...can display a variety of resolutions Numeric keypad The number and cursor control keys grouped to the right of the keyboard Operating speed The speed at which the central processing unit can execute commands The Equity 320sx PLUS can run at 20 MHz or 10 MHZ Operating system A collection of programs such as MS DOS OS 2 or UNIX that manages a computer s operations The operating system determines how...

Page 218: ...e a file A method used to verify the accuracy of data transmissions by adding a bit that makes the total of the byte odd for odd parity or even for even parity Partition 1 The area defined on a hard disk for use by an operating system 2 to divide a hard disk into separate sections or logical drives You can define a primary partition and one or more extended partitions on a hard disk Password The s...

Page 219: ...circuitry and configuration each time you turn it on Process ID number A number OS 2 appends to each process it runs When you run a process in the background OS 2 displays its process ID number on the screen Also called a handle Processor speed See Operating speed Program A file that contains coded instructions and tells a computer what to do and how to do it Prompt A message the screen displays t...

Page 220: ...ad The physical device inside a disk drive that reads data from and records data on the magnetic surface of a disk Real time clock A battery powered clock inside the computer that keeps track of the time and date even when the computer is turned off Reset To reload a computer s operating system so you can retry a task or begin using a different operating system Resetting erases all information in ...

Page 221: ...n address at which the computer can access data Self test The initial diagnostics procedures a system performs to check its hardware Serial The type of interface that transmits data one bit at a time See also Interface and Parallel Shadow RAM The feature provided by the Equity 320sx PLUS that enables the computer to copy the system ROM BIOS and video ROM into the RAM area of memory to speed up pro...

Page 222: ...e the hardware is functioning correctly System diskette A diskette that contains the operating system Tracks Addressable concentric circles on a disk resembling the grooves on a record which help to divide the disk into separate accessible areas UNIX An operating system that supports multitasking and is suited to multi user environments UNIX is compatible with a range of computers from personal co...

Page 223: ... to install a video card if you are going to use this interface Write To store data on a disk Write protect To protect the data on a diskette from being changed by placing a write protect tab over the notch on a 51 4 inch diskette or by setting the write protect switch on a 31 2 inch diskette When a diskette is write protected you cannot erase change or record over its contents 18 Glossary ...

Page 224: ...emulation 4 12 Clock calendar RAM A l Clock real time 2 3 A l Clock speed 2 11 CMOS RAM l 18 2 2 2 17 6 2 6 5 A l Color graphics adapter CGA card see Video cards Command stopping 3 3 4 CONFIGSYS 1 14 4 8 l 1 Connecting keyboard 1 12 13 modem l l1 monitor l 4 8 mouse 1 13 14 power cord 1 15 16 printer l 8 11 Consumer Resource Center number Intro 4 Control codes CTRL ALT 1 4 4 CTRL ALT 2 4 4 CTRL AL...

Page 225: ...ting 3 15 l6 labelling 3 11 problems C 9 l1 read write slot 3 15 Diskette s removing 3 15 l6 storing 3 11 swapping 3 14 system 3 17 types 3 B 10 write protecting 3 12 13 Display adapter see VGA port Display adapter cards see Video cards Display screen see Monitor Display type 2 8 9 Double density diskettes 3 8 9 Double sided diskettes 3 8 9 Drives see Diskette drive see Hard disk E EDLIN 4 l 2 4 9...

Page 226: ...ing plate 7 10 l1 parking the heads 3 19 20 partitions 3 18 B 16 C 14 physical formatting B 16 17 C 13 15 precautions 3 19 Hard disk preparing for moving 3 19 20 preparing for use 3 18 problems C 12 15 removing 7 l 27 setting types 2 5 8 slave drive 7 4 7 6 specifications A 2 3 storage capacity 3 18 tests B 12 20 types 2 5 8 using 3 18 20 HDSIT 3 19 20 Help where to get Intro 4 Hercules card see V...

Page 227: ...map A 5 modules see SIMMs problems C 19 specifications A l tests B 10 B 12 MGA card see Video cards MODE l 11 Modem connecting l l1 Monitor connecting 1 4 8 diagnostics B l1 12 interface A 2 jumper 6 2 5 multi frequency 1 4 4 l1 problems C 8 9 selecting type 1 7 2 8 9 tests B 11 12 Monochrome graphics adapter card see Video cards Mounting frames hard disk 7 7 10 Mounting plate hard disk 7 10 12 Mo...

Page 228: ...ables 7 15 7 25 26 Precautions computer 1 2 l 16 5 4 hard disk 3 19 Primary display type 2 8 9 Primary port 2 15 16 Printer adapter test B 23 24 connecting l 8 11 parallel interface l 8 10 A 2 problems C 16 17 serial interface l 11 A 2 Processor speed 2 11 4 26 C 15 Protector card 1 3 1 16 3 20 R RAM test B 10 B 12 C 2 Random access memory RAM 2 2 2 10 3 14 A l C 2 Read only memory ROM 2 1 2 10 A ...

Page 229: ...4 7 A l SIMMS configuring memory on 2 12 6 25 26 installing 5 1 6 14 18 problems C 19 removing 6 18 20 specifications 6 14 15 A l Slave drive 7 4 7 6 SNOOZE utility 4 12 Software problems C 15 16 Speaker A 2 Special keys 3 2 3 Specifications A l 5 Speed changing see Processor speed Subassembly installing 5 9 16 removing 5 5 9 System BIOS 2 10 board tests B 10 diagnostics B l 25 memory see Memory s...

Page 230: ...blems C 5 C 17 18 removing 6 13 setting display type 2 8 9 tests 6 26 B 11 12 VGA 2 8 9 Video diagnostics B 11 12 Video graphics array VGA built in port see VGA port card see Video cards Video monitors see Monitors Video ROM 2 10 W Windows 2 12 4 7 WordPerfect 4 12 WordStar 4 12 Write protecting diskettes 3 12 13 Write protect notch 3 12 Write protect switch 3 13 Write protect tab 3 12 X XCOPY 3 1...

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