Epson user manual personal computer 386/25 (326 pages)
Summary of Contents for Epson Equity 386SX
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Quality of examples and pictures W Quantity of examples and pictures Comments : Name: Title: Company: Address: City: State: Please tear out and mail in Thank you! EPSON Fair E x c e l l e n t G o o d Zip: Poor...
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PLACE STAMP HERE EPSON America, Inc. 2780 Lomita Blvd. Torrance, CA 90505 MS 4-1 Fold Here Tape Here - Do Not Staple...
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EPSON® E Q U I T Y ™ 3 8 6 S X User’s Guide Y19299100100...
DISCLAIMER OF WARRANTY Epson America makes no representations or warranties, either express or implied, by or with respect to anything in this manual, and shall not be liable for any implied warranties of merchantability and fitness for a particular purpose or for any indirect, special, or consequential damages.
IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS Read all of these instructions and save them for later reference. Follow all warnings and instructions marked on the product. Unplug this product from the wall outlet before cleaning. Do not use liquid cleaners or aerosol cleaners. Use a damp cloth for cleaning.
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11. Never push objects of any kind into this product through cabinet slots, as they may touch dangerous voltage points or short out parts that could result in a risk of fire or electric shock. Never spill liquid of any kind on the product. 12.
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Appendix C Performing System Diagnostics Starting System Diagnostics ......Selecting an Option ....... . . Modifying the Device List.
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Alternate Parallel Port Check ......Parallel Port (on Video Adapter) Check ....Serial Port (RS-232C Port) Check.
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Appendix F Specifications CPU and Memory ......Controllers........Interfaces .
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Introduction The Epson® Equity™ 386SX is a high-performance personal computer which offers exceptional speed and versatility in a compact design. The computer’s 80386SX microprocessor makes all your programs run faster, even when supporting multitasking operations. The Equity 386SX S available in these configurations: c3 A single diskette drive system with a 1.44MB (megabyte)
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You may also want to install an 80387SX math coprocessor in your computer to speed up mathematical calculations. Check with your authorized Epson dealer to see which options are available. The Equity 386SX ff security and versatility of your computer: Password protection.
MS®OS/2. A mong other capabilities, MS OS/2 provides multitasking, dual-mode processing, and online help. With Epson’s version of MS OS/2, you can have both MS-DOS and MS OS/2 on your Equity 386SX; this way, you can select which operating system to load each time you turn on the computer.
Where to Get Help Customer support and service for Epson products are provided by a network of authorized Epson dealers and Customer Care Centers throughout the United States. Epson America provides product information and support to its dealers and Customer Care Centers.
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Epson is confident that this policy will provide you with the assistance you need. Call the Epson Consumer Information Center at 1-800-922-8911 for the following: Cl The nearest Epson dealer 0 The nearest Customer Care Center Information on Epson User Groups.
Chapter 1 Setting Up Your System Setting up your Epson Equity 386SX personal computer is easy. Just follow the seven steps in this chapter. As you set up your computer, you may want to leave this manual’s back cover foldout open so you can refer to the two illustrations identifying the different parts of the computer.
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You’ll find a warranty card and a registration card with the computer. Keep the warranty card for your records. Fill out the registration card now and mail it to Epson. With your registration card on file, Epson can send you update information.
Choosing a Location Before you set up your Equity 386SX, it’s important to choose a comfortable, convenient location where it can run properly. Select a location that provides the following: A large, sturdy desk or table that can easily support the weight of your system, including all its components.
Connecting a Monitor The procedure you use to connect your monitor to the computer depends on the type of monitor you have. See your monitor manual for detailed instructions or follow the general guidelines below. A monitor requires that a display adapter (video) card be installed inside the computer to control it.
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Follow these steps to connect the monitor: Place your monitor on top of or near the computer. It is easiest to connect the monitor cable if the backs of the monitor and the computer are facing you. If necessary, connect the monitor cable to the monitor. (Some monitors come with permanently attached cables.) Connect the appropriate end of the monitor cable to the video card connector on the back of the computer, as...
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Plug the monitor’s power cord into the monitor’s power inlet, as shown below. Plug the other end of the power cord into an electrical outlet. Note If the monitor has the proper type of plug, you can plug it into the AC power outlet on the back of the computer, Setting Up Your System...
To connect a printer or other peripheral device to one of these interfaces, follow the instructions below. Of course, Epson offers a full range of printers; check with your dealer for more information. Using the Parallel Interface The Equity 386SX parallel interface is Centronics®-compatible...
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One end of the printer cable has a 25-pin, D-shell, male connector. Connect this end to the parallel port on the back panel of the computer, as shown below. If the plug has retaining screws, tighten them by hand or with a screwdriver, depending on the screw type.
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Connect the other end of the cable 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. Plug the printer’s power cord into an electrical outlet. Setting Up Your System...
Using the Serial Interface If you have a printer, a modem, or any other peripheral with a serial interface, you can connect it to the serial (RS-232C) port on the back of the computer. The Equity 386SX uses a DB-9P male connector, so be sure you have a compatible cable.
Using the Mouse Connector The Equity 386SX h as an auxiliary port for a mouse that uses a mini DIN (6-pin) connector. To connect a mouse to the built- in mouse port and set up the computer to use it, see the manual that comes with the mouse.
Connecting the Power Cord Follow these steps to connect the power cord: Make sure the power switch on the computer is turned off. Plug the power cord into the AC power inlet on the back panel, as shown below. To avoid an electric shock, be sure to plug the cord into the computer before plugging it into the wall socket.
Connecting the Keyboard Follow these steps to connect the keyboard: Turn the computer around so the front is facing you. 2. Open the door on the lower left corner of the computer’s front panel by pressing it in slightly and then releasing it. Setting Up Your System 1-13...
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Plug the keyboard cable into the socket, as shown below. Do not force the connector, but be sure to insert it all the way. Guide the keyboard cable through the notch on the left side of the panel. Close the panel access door. 1-14 Setting Up Your System...
If there is a hardware problem you cannot solve after reading the information on troubleshooting in Appendix A, check with your Epson dealer. Always turn off the power, disconnect the computer’s power cord, and wait five seconds before you remove the computer’s cover.
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D Never turn off or reset your computer while a disk drive light is on. This can destroy data stored on disk or make an entire disk unusable. Always wait at least five seconds after you turn off the power before you turn it on again. Turning the power off and on rapidly can damage the computer’s circuitry.
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The power indicator on the front panel lights up. After a few seconds, the computer starts to perform an internal self test. This is a series of checks the computer completes each time you turn it on to make sure everything is working correctly. If anything is wrong, an error message appears on the screen.
Chapter 2 Running the Setup Program The first time you use your Equity 386SX, you need to run the Setup program on the Reference diskette to define the computer’s configuration. This is a simple procedure you must do at least once. (You may need to do it again later, if you change the configuration.) The Setup program lets you set (or change) the following for your computer:...
Starting the Setup Program Follow these steps to start the Setup program: Turn off your computer, monitor, and any peripheral devices, if you have not already done so. Insert the Reference diskette into drive A with the label facing up and the metal shutter leading into the drive, as shown below: Slide the diskette into the drive until it clicks into place.
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Turn on your system. (Remember to turn on your monitor and any peripherals before you turn on the computer.) The screen displays the Operation Menu: OPERATION MENU 1 - Setup 2 - Format hard disk System 4 - Prepare hard disk for moving 0 - Exit to DOS for more utilities Note If an error message appears when you rum on the...
Continuing From an Error Message If your computer has never been set up, you may see an error message, such as the following: - System options not set (Run SETUP in REFERENCE DISK) (Resume = "F1" key) If you see an error message like this one, follow these steps to proceed: Press The computer beeps and the screen displays...
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Setup menu so you can enter a new setting. Note If you see the message Real-time l o s t power, contact your Epson dealer. You correct this error using the Setup program. Be sure is highlighted and press...
Moving the Cursor Block Use 4 and ? to move the cursor block (the highlighted bar) through the options on the main Setup menu. After you highlight the option you want, you can press Note Note If the arrow keys on the numeric keypad do not appear to work, Num Lock mode may be enabled.
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At the main Setup menu, highlight the current display adapter card type, such as the following: Monochrome If the display adapter card type is correct for your system, you can skip this section. To change the display adapter card setting, press cursor block moves into the submenu and you see: Monochrome 80 column Special Adapter...
If you have a composite color monitor, such as a color television with a video input, try selecting column. again and select If you have a monochrome display adapter (MDA), an MGA, or a Hercules MGA attached to a monochrome monitor, choose (Also be sure to set the color/mono switch on the MGA card to mono.)
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If you want to use your computer as a network server, you must turn on network server mode. (A network server is the master computer in a network which provides storage space for the other computers connected to it. The network server can write files to and read files from the other computers in the network.) To turn on network server mode, you must set a power-on password.
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To enter a password, type any combination of characters (including letters, numbers, and blank spaces) up to a total of seven characters. Use the backspace key to delete mistakes. Do not use characters requiring the @, or *, in your password. The Equity 386SX does not recognize the access the system.
Note If you forget your password, there is a way to disable the password function. See “Password Problems” in Appendix A for instructions. Setting the Fast Boot Function The Fast boot function allows you to start up your system faster by reducing the time it takes the computer to perform its power- on diagnostics.
Follow these steps to change the Fast boot setting: 1. At the main Setup menu, highlight press The current status appears: Enter. Fast boot SAVE SETTING ** the displayed setting is correct, press ? to return to the main Setup menu. To change the setting from enabled to disabled or vice versa, press Enter.
When Auto speed is enabled, the computer automatically switches to low speed whenever it needs to access a diskette drive. It runs at high speed for all other operations. There are different types of copy-protected programs. Depending on the type you have, you may or may not want to enable the Auto speed function.
2. To change the setting from versa, press or vice 3. Highlight * * SAVE SETTING return to the main Setup menu. Setting the Real-time Clock The real-time clock in your Equity 386SX constantly tracks the time and date-even when the computer is turned off. The first time you run the Setup program, you use the option to set the time and date for your computer.
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If the time and date are incorrect, go to step 2 below. If the time and date have never been set, the submenu contains a template for you to fill in: Go to step 2 to enter the time and date. Press to move the cursor block into the submenu.
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If you enter an invalid time-for example, a number greater than 23 for the hours or greater than 59 for the minutes or seconds-the computer beeps and ignores your entry. Try again. When the time is correct, press To set or change the date, highlight You see this prompt: Enter.
Note The Setup program automatically saves the time and date when you press change the time or date and then exit the Setup program without saving your changes, the new time and date still take effect. Setting the Hard Disk Drive Configuration If your computer came with a 40MB or 100MB hard disk, your computer’s hard disk configuration has already been set for you at the factory and you can skip this section.
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2. To select Hard disk drive, menu such as the following: Change settings ** SAVE SETTINGS ** Drive 1: Number of cylinders Number of heads Number sectors Precomp. cylinder Landing zone Total capacity (MB) The submenu lists the settings you can change for each drive: the number of cylinders (tracks), the number of read/ write heads, the number of sectors, the precompensation cylinder, the landing zone (the cylinder on which you want...
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If you want to change the drive types, and the configuration of the hard disk you are installing does not match one of the drive types listed in Appendix E, go to step 7. If you have disconnected the drive or if the drive does not exist, highlight None and press settings become 0.
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You can enter the drive type in one of two ways: You can type the drive type number (listed in Appendix E) and press new drive type number and hard disk settings. (You cannot type 00 or a drive type number that has more than three digits.) Cl You can use the cursor keys to move through the drive type numbers, as follows:...
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If the configuration of the hard disk you are installing does not match one of the drive types listed in Appendix E, highlight User defined following: Number of cylinders The same parameter is highlighted on the submenu above. Enter the correct number of cylinders (tracks) for the disk and press Enter.
If you want to change the hard disk settings for drive 2, press -+ and return to step 4. 9. When the hard disk drive settings are correct, press ? to move the cursor block into the top submenu. Highlight ** SAVE SETTINGS hard disk drive configuration.
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Press The cursor block moves into the diskette drive Enter. submenu and you see the following: installed 360 KB drive drive (3.5") 1.2 MB drive 1.44 MB drive (3.5") If you want to change the drive A settings, be sure : is highlighted and press Drive A change the drive B settings, highlight Drive B : and...
Setting the Serial and Parallel Interfaces The serial and parallel interfaces in your computer are set up to act as the primary ports. If these are the only ports you are using in your computer, you can skip this section. If you install an option card with its own serial or parallel port, however, you may want to designate the built-in port as secondary and the additional port as primary.
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Press to move the cursor block into the submenu. Enter You see: If you want to change the serial port setting, be sure S e r i a l is highlighted and press change the parallel port setting, highlight and press The cursor block moves into the submenu.
Reviewing Your Settings When you finish using the Setup program to define your computer’s configuration, press ‘? to highlight main Setup menu and press summary appears on the screen: M e m o r y Password Display type Fast boot If you see an error message on the first Setup summary screen, see “Adding an Optional Memory Card”...
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If you have never set the real-time clock, the real-time clock entry at the top of the screen flashes to remind you to set the time and date. To view the last Setup summary screen, press your hard disk configuration(s): Hard disk drive Drive 1: Type...
Leaving the Setup Menu If you want to save the settings you entered, highlight ** EXIT AND SAVE summary screen. The Setup program stores the new settings and resets the computer using the new configuration. If you have set a password, you need to enter it at the key prompt. (See “Using a Power-on Password”...
Adding an Optional Memory Card The first Setup summary screen shows the current amount of memory installed in your system. The Equity 386SX comes with 1MB of on-board memory. (On-board memory is memory that resides on the computer’s main system board.) Setup automatically configures this memory as 640KB of base memory and 384KB of extended memory.
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The addresses of the gap or overlap are shown in hexadecimal numbers. (Hexadecimal is a base-16 numbering system used in programming.) The message tells you the starting and ending addresses of the gap or overlap and recommends two starting addresses for the memory you added on the memory card. The first recommended starting address is the starting address of the 384KB of on-board extended memory.
Chapter 3 Using the Equity 386SX This chapter describes the following procedures for using your Equity 386SX computer: 0 Installing MS-DOS CI Using a power-on password Cl Selecting the operating speed Using special keys on the keyboard Stopping a command or program L! Resetting the computer Using disks and disk drives 0 Turning off the computer.
In addition, be sure to make a backup copy of your Reference diskette; MS-DOS does not create one for you. See “Making Backup Copies” in this chapter and “Backing Up Data” in Chapter 4 for instructions on how to copy diskettes. Using a Power-on Password If you set a power-on password when you ran the Setup program, you must enter it every time you turn on or reset the...
You have three chances to enter the correct password. If you do not enter the correct password at the first or second key prompt, another key prompt appears. If you do not enter the correct password at the third key prompt, the screen displays a 0. The keyboard locks up and you cannot use the computer.
WARNING Be sure to remember the new power-on password you enter or write it down and keep it in a safe place. If you cannot remember the password you enter now, you will not be able to access your computer the next time you turn it on.
Selecting the Operating Speed The Equity 386SX can operate at two speeds: high and low. High speed is 16 MHz and low speed simulates 8 MHz. On high, the computer can access memory faster than on low. You will probably use high speed for almost everything you do. However, certain application programs have specific timing requirements for diskette access and can run only at the slower speed.
Special Keys on the Equity 386SX Keyboard Certain keys on your keyboard serve special functions when your computer is running MS-DOS or application programs. The following illustration shows the Equity 386SX keyboard, and the table that follows describes the special keys. Key functions Tab It Tab +I...
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Purpose Moves the cursor back one space, deleting the t Backspace character to the left of the cursor. Ends a line of keyboard input or executes a Enter command. Turns the Insert function on and off. Insert (Ins) Deletes the character marked by the cursor. Delete (Del) Home, End Control cursor location.
Stopping a Command or Program You may sometimes need to stop a command or program while it is running. Many application 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: Hold down the Q Hold down the...
WARNING Do not reset the computer to exit a program unless you have to. Some application programs classify and store new data when you exit the program. If you reset the computer without properly exiting the program, you may lose data. To reset the computer, MS-DOS must be either on the hard disk or on a diskette in drive A;...
This section explains how disks work and tells you how to do the following: Use different types of diskettes and diskette drives Care for your diskettes and diskette drives Cl Insert and remove diskettes 0 Write-protect diskettes Make backup copies of your diskettes Use a single diskette drive Ll Use two diskette drives Use a hard disk drive.
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Because a hard disk consists of two or more platters stacked on top of one another, it has four or more sides with many more tracks per side than a diskette. (The number of tracks depends on the capacity of the hard disk. You do not need to know how many sides and tracks your hard disk has.) A disk is further divided by sectors.
Your computer uses the read/write heads in a disk drive to store and retrieve data on a disk. To write to a disk, the computer spins it in the drive to position the area on the disk where the data is to be written under the read/write head. A diskette has an exposed area where the read/write head can access it.
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360KB drive-With this drive, use 5 l/4-inch, double-sided, double-density, 48 TPI (tracks per inch), 360KB diskettes. (You can also use single-sided, 160KB or 180KB diskettes.) These diskettes contain 40 tracks per side, 8 or 9 sectors per track, and hold up to 360KB of information, which is approximately 150 pages of text.
5 ‘Ivinch drive/diskette compatibility Drive type Diskette types it can read from and write to 360KB 160KB, 180KB, 320KB, 360KB 1.2MB 160KB, 180KB, 320KB, 360KB, 1.2MB WARNING If you write to a 360KB (or 160KB, 180KB, or 320KB) diskette in a 1.2MB drive, you may nut be able to read it or write to it in a 360KB drive later.
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Keep diskettes away from dust and dirt. Small particles of dust or dirt can scratch the magnetic surface, destroy data, and ruin the read/write heads in a diskette drive. Never wipe, brush, or try to clean diskettes in any way. Keep diskettes in a moderate environment.
For a 5 l/4-inch diskette, it is best to write on a label before you attach it to a diskette. If you need to write on a label that is already on a 5 ‘/q-inch diskette, use only a soft-tip pen-not a ballpoint pen or a pencil.
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If you have a 5 ‘/+inch diskette drive, hold the diskette with the label facing up and the read/write slot leading into the drive. 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 diskette drive to access the diskette.
Write-protecting Diskettes You can write-protect a diskette to prevent its data from being altered. When a diskette is write-protected, you can read it and copy data from it, but you cannot store new data on the diskette or delete any files it contains. If you try to change data stored on a write-protected diskette, MS-DOS displays an error message.
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Note Some program diskettes, such as your MS-DOS diskettes and your Reference diskette, have no switch so they are permanently write-protected. This protects them from being accidentally erased or altered. It is a good idea to write- protect the backup copies you make of your MS-DOS and Reference diskettes.
Making Backup Copies It is important to make copies of all your data and system d i s k e t t e s . M a k e b a c k u p ( o r w o r k i n g ) c o p i e s contain programs, such as the original MS-DOS and Reference diskettes that come with the Equity 386SX, and use only the copies.
Using a Single Diskette Drive MS-DOS expects the computer to have at least two diskette drives, and it displays prompts and messages accordingly. If your system has a single diskette drive, MS-DOS treats your one drive like two logical drives. This helps you perform operations that normally require two diskette drives.
Using Two Diskette Drives If you have two diskette drives, you can use the top drive (A) for loading the operating system and application programs and the second drive (B) for creating data. If you have a hard disk, you will probably need the diskette drives just to copy files to and from the hard disk and to copy diskettes.
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Note MS-DOS Shell program is a menu-driven program which makes it easy for you to move, create, delete, and rename files and directories, as well as view files and execute MS-DOS Shell User’s commands. See your instructions. If your Equity 386SX has a hard disk drive, follow these precautions to protect it from damage and to avoid losing data: Never turn off the computer when the hard disk drive light is on.
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Backing up the hard disk While the hard disk is very reliable, it is essential to back up your hard disk files to diskettes in case you lose some data accidentally. Make copies of all your system and application diskettes before copying the programs to the hard disk. After you create data files on the hard disk, be sure to copy them to diskettes whenever you revise them to keep your backup diskettes up-to-date.
You see a message on the screen that tells you the disk drive’s read/write heads will remain locked until you reset the computer or turn the power off and on again. The computer locks the heads and disables the keyboard. You can now turn off the computer and prepare to move it to the new location.
Using drive designators Types of MS-DOS commands Entering an MS-DOS command Setting the date and time Creating and managing files Using directories Formatting diskettes Backing up data The MS-DOS Shell program Using the Epson HELP program Using MS-DOS with Your Equity 386SX...
Using the Epson MENU program Ll Using an AUTOEXEC.BAT file Ll Using memory beyond 640KB. Starting MS-DOS Before you can run an MS-DOS application program, MS-DOS must be loaded in the computer’s memory. If you have a hard disk and you installed MS-DOS according to the instructions in...
Note Before you turn off the computer, be sure to exit any application program you are using. The screen should display the Shell Start Programs Menu or the MS-DOS command prompt. Then remove your diskettes (if any), turn off the computer, and turn off any peripherals.
The Current Drive At any given time, MS-DOS considers one disk drive to be the current (or default) drive. The current drive is the drive on which MS-DOS executes your next command, unless you tell it to do otherwise. For example, if the current drive is C, and you enter the DIR (directory) command, MS-DOS lists the files stored on drive C.
Specifying the drive designator If you want to access a program or file on another drive without first changing the current drive, type the drive designator along with the filename. For example, if you are logged onto drive A and want to use a file named PROGRAM on drive B, type and press B : PROGRAM the file named PROGRAM from drive B but stays logged onto...
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If you do not have a hard disk, external commands are stored on the set of working diskettes generated when you installed MS-DOS. To use an external MS-DOS command, you must insert the diskette containing that command into a diskette drive.
Entering an MS-DOS Command To enter an MS-DOS command, you need to type the command in the correct format. The command format provides MS-DOS with the information needed to perform a task. The MS-DOS command format consists of the command name, parameters, and delimiters.
See your MS-DOS Reference Manual for more information on the command format and for command descriptions that explain which parameters and delimiters are required and which parameters and switches are optional for each command. You can enter an MS-DOS command whenever you see the MS-DOS command prompt.
You can use the Setup program on your Reference also diskette to set the correct time and date, See “Setting the Real-time Clock” in Chapter 2 for instructions. Creating and Managing Files All your data and programs are stored in files on disk. A data file contains information, such as words, numbers, or pictures.
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The extension is optional and can be up to three characters long. You can use the extension to further identify a file or to describe what type of file it is, such as a text file or program file. When you use an extension, separate it from the filename with a period, like this: DATA.TXT Do not use uppercase and lowercase letters to distinguish...
Copying Files You can use the COPY command to copy individual files or groups of files. COPY is an internal command; you can use it any time you see the MS-DOS command prompt. You can use the COPY command to copy files in several ways: You can copy individual files from one disk to another You can copy a group of files using wildcard characters You can copy one or more files and give them new names...
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To copy the file named REPORT to the same drive or directory and name the copy FACTS, type the following and press COPY REPORT FACTS Now you have two files on the current drive that have the same contents but different names. In this example, you can omit the drive designators because the original file and the copy are both on the current drive.
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The MENU pro copy files with XCOPY using menus instead of the command itself. See your MS-DOS Reference Manual Epson MENU Program” in this chapter for inform&on on XCOPY and MENU. You can also use the MS-DOS Shell program to copy...
Renaming Files You can use the RENAME command to change the name of a file or group of files on the same disk and directory. For example, to rename a file named PROSPECT (in the current directory) to CLIENT, type the following and press RENAME PROSPECT CLIENT You can shorten the RENAME command to REN.
Deleting Files You can delete files you no longer need with the DEL (delete) command. For example, to delete REPORT.AUG from drive C, type the following and press DEL C:REPORT.AUG To delete the file WRENCHES from drive C, type the following and press DEL C:WRENCHES To display a prompt asking you to confirm that you want to...
Printing Text Files If you have a printer attached to your computer, you can print text files with the PRINT command. In general, you will probably use application programs to print files, but if you need to print a text file from the MS-DOS command prompt, follow the steps below.
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Directories are essential for organizing files on a hard disk, and you might even want to create directories on a 1.44MB diskette. However, you may not need to create directories if you use lower capacity diskettes-especially if the diskette contains only a few large files.
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This directory tree lets you separate business word processing files from personal word processing files, and sales spreadsheets from spreadsheet files used for financial projections. Your directory structure may be as simple as this example or much more complex. Organize your disk(s) to suit your needs. As your needs change, you can modify the structure by deleting old directories and creating new ones.
The Current Directory MS-DOS always recognizes one directory as the current (or default) directory, just as it always recognizes one drive as the current drive. The current directory is the directory you are logged onto at the time and the one in which MS-DOS performs your commands, unless you tell it to do otherwise.
Using Pathnames You use pathnames with MS-DOS commands to tell MS-DOS how to find its way to the directory you want to access. Backslashes separate the directories in a pathname. There are two types of pathnames: absolute and relative. An absolute pathname begins with a backslash and tells MS-DOS how to find its way to the desired directory from the root directory.
You can use either relative or absolute pathnames at any time, as long as you give MS-DOS enough information to find the directory or file at the end of the pathname. Including Filenames With Pathnames You can use a pathname when you want to access a file that is not in the current directory.
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drive C, the root directory was the current directory. Now you are logged onto drive A and you enter the following command to delete the file JEAN1204.DOC: DEL C:JEAN1204.DOC MS-DOS tries to find the file you want in the root directory of drive C.
Creating Directories You use the MKDIR command to create directories. For example, to create a LEDGER directory under the root directory of the current drive, type the following and press \LEDGER You can abbreviate the name of this command to MD. For example, to create a SALES directory under the LEDGER directory, type the following and press \LEDGER\SALES...
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A directory listing includes the following information about each file in the directory: Cl Name and extension Size of the file in bytes tl Date and time the file was created or last modified (whichever is later). The directory listing also shows any subdirectories in the directory;...
This switch displays a wide-format directory listing, like this: Volume drive Volume Serial Number is 354C-12E9 Directory of 5 File(s) This type of listing does not show the size of a file or the time and date it was last modified. To list the contents of a different drive or directory, include the appropriate drive designator and/or pathname in the command.
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The screen displays a tree diagram of the subdirectories of the current directory, for example: L E D G E R RECEIV PAYABL SALES To see a list of all the files in the subdirectories, add the /F switch, like this: TREE /F The screen displays the directory information shown above and the names of all the files in each subdirectory:...
To see the list of subdirectories of another directory, include the pathname: TREE C:\WORDPROC Removing Directories You may sometimes want to remove directories you no longer need. However, before you can delete a directory, it must be empty. If it contains any files or subdirectories, MS-DOS displays an error message and does not delete the directory.
Note You can also format diskettes using the Epson MENU program. These programs are easy to use because they let you select options using commands, See your MS-DOS Shell User’s Guide and “Using the Epson MENU Program,” later in Using the FORMAT Command 1.
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If necessary, remove the Startup diskette from drive A. Insert the diskette you want to format in drive A and press to start formatting. Enter When the diskette is formatted, you see this message: Format complete Volume label (11 characters, ENTER for none)? At the Volume label...
Formatting a diskette to 720KE3 If you want to format a diskette to a capacity of 720KB in your 1.44MB diskette drive, you need to use a switch with the FORMAT command. The /F:size switch tells the FORMAT command to format the diskette as the size specified in the command even if the capacity of the diskette drive is different.
See your MS-DOS Reference Manual for information on XCOPY. Note The MS-DOS Shell and the Epson MENU program provide easy ways to perform the functions listed above. See your MS-DOS Shell User’s Guide and “Using the Epson MENU Program,” later in this chapter.
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Using DISKCOPY with one diskette drive Make sure the diskette you want to copy is write-protected. (See Chapter 3 for instructions.) 2. If you don’t have a hard disk, insert your Startup diskette into drive A. If you have a hard disk, type drive C.
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After DISKCOPY copies the data from memory to the target diskette, the screen prompts you to insert the source diskette again to copy the remaining data to the computer’s memory (if necessary). Insert the source diskette into drive A and press any key. After DISKCOPY copies the rest of the source diskette’s data to the computer’s memory, the screen prompts you to insert the target diskette again to copy the remaining data...
If necessary, remove the Startup diskette from drive A. Insert the diskette you want to copy from (the source diskette) into drive A and the diskette you want to copy to (the target diskette) into drive B. Then press any key to begin copying.
Shell program and see your MS-DOS Shell User’s Guide for information on how to use it. Using the Epson HELP Program The Epson HELP program lets you display information on the screen about MS-DOS commands and programs. You can use HELP in one of three ways:...
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0 If you want information about more than one command you can type HELP each separated by a space. To use the HELP program, follow these steps: If you don’t have a hard disk, make sure your Working diskette is in drive A. If necessary, type If you want to use the HELP menu, type Use the cursor keys to highlight the command you...
Press to exit the HELP program. Using the Epson MENU Program The Epson MENU program lets you display a menu of commonly used MS-DOS commands and select the one you need. It provides an easier way to run MS-DOS commands because you can execute commands without having to remember their exact syntax.
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To select an option, use the arrow keys to highlight the option you want and press submenus; keep highlighting your selection and pressing until you select the desired operation. Enter MENU works by calling external commands which it looks for on the current disk or path.
Because you can perform so many tasks from the Mode Settings submenus, this option is a simpler alternative to the MS-DOS MODE command. Lets you access the Epson HELP program. Lets you run other MS-DOS commands without leaving the MENU program. 4-39...
Using an AUTOEXEC.BAT File You may want to run some commands every time you turn on your computer. To run a command or a series of commands automatically upon startup, you can type the commands in a special file called AUTOEXEC.BAT. When you load MS-DOS, it always looks for this file.
If you have a hard disk and you installed MS-DOS according to the instructions in your MS-DOS Installation Guide, MS-DOS automatically sets a path to the directory that contains the MS-DOS commands and the MS-DOS command prompt displays the current drive and directory. Creating an AUTOEXEC.BAT File Here is an example of an AUTOEXEC.BAT file: PATH...
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You can also use the MS-DOS COPY or EDLIN command to create an AUTOEXEC.BAT file. Follow these steps to create an AUTOEXEC.BAT file with the COPY command: If you are creating an AUTOEXEC.BAT file on your hard disk, log onto the root directory of your hard disk. (Type : \ and press CD C If you are creating an AUTOEXEC.BAT file on your...
Using Memory Beyond The Equity 386SX comes with 1MB of random access memory. MS-DOS and your application programs that run under MS-DOS use the first 640KB of memory. You can use the memory between 640KB and 1MB as extended or expanded memory.
Type DEVICE=EMM386.SY S add one or more of the optional switches explained in the next section to this command line. Press F6 and then 5. Reset the computer. Using EMM386.SYS EMM386SYS is an expanded memory manager that lets you use extended memory to emulate expanded memory so that you can use application programs that support LIM EMS.
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The size parameter allows you to specify the amount of extended memory to be used as expanded memory. You specify the amount of memory in kilobytes. If you do not specify a size, the default value is 256KB. This example tells the computer to use 1024KB of extended memory as expanded memory: DEVICE=EMM386.SYS 1024 The X:mmmm-nnnn parameter specifies a range of memory to...
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The Mx parameter specifies a particular address for the EMM386.SYS page frame. You specify the address by substituting a code for x from this table: I x I Page frame begins at segment For example, if you want EMM386.SYS to locate its page frame at the address C800, include this command in your CONFIG.SYS file: DEVICE=EMM386.SYS M2...
If you want to install a math coprocessor in your computer, ask your authorized Epson dealer to do it for you. Memory modules allow you to increase the amount of memory in your computer. This chapter briefly describes the types and amounts of memory modules you can use in the Equity 386SX.
Adding Memory Modules The standard Equity 386SX system comes with 1MB of on- board memory. You can add SIMMs (single inline memory modules) to increase the amount of memory in the computer. With added SIMMs, the total amount of memory in your computer must be one of the following: 2MB, 4MB, 6MB, 8MB, 10MB, 12MB, or 14MB.
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Two sockets in each bank accept only 256KB SIMMs. These sockets are labelled 7A, 8A, 12A, and 13A. The rest of the sockets accept only 1MB SIMMs. You must fill all of the 256KB SIMM sockets before using any of the 1MB sockets. SIMMs must be distributed evenly between the two banks.
(known as the SP card). The video card that controls your monitor occupies one standard slot. You can buy additional option cards from authorized Epson dealers as well as other vendors. If you want additional memory, you can install a memory card in your computer.
Removing the Cover To install an option card, you need to remove the cover from your Equity 386SX. Follow these steps: Turn off the computer and then any peripherals (including the monitor and printer) that are attached to it. Disconnect the computer’s power cable from the electrical outlet and from the back panel.
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Facing the front panel, grasp the two sides of the cover and carefully pull it straight toward you and away from the back of the computer (as shown in the following illustration), until it is a few inches away from the back panel. 5-6 Installing Options...
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7. After the cover’s front panel clears the power button and the diskette drive, you can lift off the cover. Separate the cover’s sides from the inside of the computer by pulling them outward slightly, as shown below. Then lift off the cover and set it aside.
Installing an Option Card The illustration below shows the five standard option slots inside the Equity 386SX. (The SP card occupies a special additional slot, number 6.) option card slots SP card 5-8 Installing Options...
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Slot 5 is designed for an 8-bit option card, and slots 1 through 4 are designed for 16-bit cards. As you can see below, a 16-bit card has a second connector along the bottom. 8-bit option card Usually, it does not matter which slot an option card occupies as long as the card fits in the slot.
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Follow these steps to install an option card: Decide which slot you want to use. Then remove the retaining screw from the top of the metal option slot cover; hold on to the screw as you remove it so it doesn’t fall into the computer.
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2. Unpack the option card and adjust any switches or jumpers on it if necessary. (Check the option card instructions to see if this is necessary.) When you handle the card, be careful not to touch any of the contacts on the circuit board, especially the gold-edged connector pins.
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Insert the card in the slot, guiding it straight down. Once the connector pins reach the connector slot, push the card downward firmly (but carefully) to fully insert it, as shown in the following illustration. You should feel the card fit into place.
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Secure the end of the card to the back of the computer with the retaining screw. 5-13 Installing Options...
Changing Jumper Settings If you change your computer’s configuration, you may need to change a jumper setting in the computer. A jumper is a small electrical connector that controls one of the computer’s functions. A jumper’s setting is determined by where the jumper is placed: either between pin 1 and pin 2 (position 1-2) or between pin 2 and pin 3 (position 2-3), as shown below: c!l j $ ? cg!g J@...
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Main system board jumper settings Jumper Jumper Function number setting Math coprocessor installed 2-3* No math coprocessor installed Password skip enabled 2-3* Password skip disabled Disables the built-in hard disk drive controller so you can use a hard disk drive controller on an option card in your computer 2-3* Enables the built-in hard disk drive controller...
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If you need to change or check any jumper settings, perform the following procedures in the order listed here, as necessary for your system: Follow the instructions in “Removing the Cover” earlier in this chapter to remove the computer’s cover. If you need to change any jumper settings for jumpers J1, J2, J3, or J4 on the main system board, remove any option cards that may be blocking your access to those jumpers.
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Removing the SIMM card To reach jumper J5 on the main system board, you need to remove the SIMM card. Follow these steps: Remove the retaining screw that secures the SIMM card bracket to the inside of the computer, as shown below. (Do not remove the screw securing the SIMM card to the bracket.) Be careful not to drop the screw.
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Remove the SIMM card from its slot on the main system board by pulling it straight up, as shown below. Then set it on a soft surface with the components facing up. Change the setting of jumper J5 as necessary. (See “Changing the main system board jumper settings”...
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Changing the main system board jumper settings The illustration below shows the locations of jumpers J1 through J5 on the main system board. Check the table above to see which one(s) you need to change. To move a jumper from one position to the other, use your fingers or needle-nose pliers or tweezers to pull it off its current pins and gently move it to the other position.
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The illustration below shows the location of the SIMM card in the computer. The following illustration shows the location of jumper J1 on the SlMM card. The jumper should be in position 1-2 if SIMMs have been installed. If you are not using SIMMs, the jumper should be set to position 2-3.
If the jumper setting is incorrect, move it to the correct setting. You do not have to remove the SIMM card to change the jumper setting. Replacing option cards To replace any option cards you may have removed to access the main system board, reinstall the card in the appropriate slot and secure it to the back of the computer with the retaining screw.
Replacing the Cover After you install (or remove) an option card, follow these steps to replace the computer’s cover: Facing the front of the computer, position the cover on the computer as shown below. Pull the cover’s sides outward slightly. Lower the cover and slide it toward the back of the computer until it fits into place.
To configure your computer for use with the RampagePlus® 286 memory card, you need to use CORFIX, an Epson utility on your Reference diskette, and SMART, the RampagePlus 286 setup program. You must use CORFIX before you use SMART.
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Insert the working copy of your Reference diskette into drive A. If necessary, type 4. At the prompt, type A> following messages appear: This program will configure the system to work with the SMART utility when installing the RampagePlus SMART can only be executed immediately after this configuration program.
Post-installation Setup After you install or remove a math coprocessor, memory modules, or a memory card, you need to run the Setup program on your Reference diskette so it can automatically update the computer’s configuration information. If you install or remove any other type of option card or device, such as a video adapter card or a diskette drive, it is important to run the Setup program to check if you need to change any configuration information.
Epson dealer. Your dealer may be able to solve the problem; if not, he or she can refer you to an Authorized Epson Customer Care Center for service. If necessary, call the Epson Customer Information number (1-800-922-891 1) for the location of your nearest Authorized Epson Customer Care Center.
If the computer does not display the MS-DOS prompt after five minutes, press button and try again. If the computer still does RESET not complete power-on diagnostics after five minutes, contact your Epson dealer. Troubleshooting...
If the computer starts but you can’t see anything on the screen, see “Monitor Problems,‘” later in this appendix, The Computer Locks Up If your computer locks up and does not respond when you type on the keyboard, follow these steps: Some computer operations take longer than others to complete.
Password Problems If you set a power-on password using the Setup program, you must enter this password after you turn on your computer before you can use the system. When you turn on the computer, the screen displays a key prompt ( t+nl ). If you do not enter the correct password, you see an incorrect.
Removing a Password If you have forgotten your password and you do not want to set a new one, there are two ways to remove the current password: LI Disable the existing password Ll Disable the password function. To do either of these procedures, you must reset a jumper on the main system board.
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When the Operation Menu appears, highlight and press Enter. in Chapter 2 and follow the instructions as if you are going to enter a new password. However, when you see the password prompt, press the existing password. Make sure you save your password setting and that you highlight * * EXIT AND SAVE * * the Setup program.
Setting a New Password If you have forgotten your current power-on password and want to set a new one, follow these steps: Turn off the computer and follow the instructions under “Changing Jumper Settings” in Chapter 5 to enable the password skip function by setting jumper J2 to position 1-2.
Keyboard Problems If you are having trouble with the keyboard, check the following: If the screen displays a keyboard error when you turn on or reset the computer, make sure the keyboard is securely connected to the computer. See “Connecting the Keyboard”...
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If the monitor’s power light still does not come on, check the electrical outlet for power. Turn off your monitor and unplug it from the wall outlet. Plug a lamp into the wall outlet and turn it on to see if the outlet supplies power. If you still do not see anything on the screen, make sure your monitor is connected to the computer properly.
Diskette Problems If you have trouble accessing data on a diskette, try the following steps: Is the diskette inserted properly? You may have inserted it upside-down or it may not be inserted all the way. Remove the diskette from the drive and reinsert it with the label facing up.
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In a drive that has a storage capacity of 360KB, use 5 ‘/q-inch, double-sided, double-density, 48 TPI diskettes. You cannot use 1.2MB diskettes in this drive. See “Types of Diskette Drives” in Chapter 3 for more information. If your diskette is the right type for your drive, check to see if the diskette is write-protected.
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If the error message still occurs, you probably have a defective diskette. Use the MS-DOS COPY command to copy the files from the diskette onto another diskette. (See “Copying Files” in Chapter 4 for instructions.) If you are not able to copy all the files from the defective diskette, copy as many as you can and then use the MS-DOS program RECOVER.
If you are still having problems with your diskette drive, try running the Diskette Drives and Controller Check described in Appendix C. If the diagnostics program indicates an error, consult your Epson dealer. make different sounds Troubleshooting with different...
Hard Disk Problems If you are having problems with the hard disk in your computer, try the following steps: Be sure you have installed MS-DOS on the hard disk according to the instructions in the MS-DOS Installation Guide. If you have installed MS-DOS on the hard disk but it does not load MS-DOS when you turn on the computer, it may be missing one of the MS-DOS system files.
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Hard Disk Drive and Controller diagnostics check, described in Appendix C. If the diagnostics program indicates an error, contact your Epson dealer. Never open the sealed unit that encloses the hard disk. to log onto...
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If you have been using your hard disk for a long time and begin to see numerous read/write errors, the magnetic signals on the disk may be getting weak. If this is the case, you may need to reformat the hard disk. If you decide to do this, follow these steps: Back up all the data on the disk using the BACKUP command (described in the MS-DOS Reference...
Software Problems If you are having trouble with an application program, try the following solutions: If the application program does not start, check that you are following the correct procedure for starting the program, and that it is installed correctly. If you have a hard disk and the program is stored in a directory on that drive, make sure you are logged onto or specifying the correct directory.
Printer Problems Below are some general steps to follow if you are having difficulty with your printer. If the problem persists and you need more detailed information, check your printer manual. If your printer does not work correctly immediately after you install it, check that the printer has power and is properly connected to the computer.
Many application programs (such as word processors) must be set up properly before they can use a printer. Check your program manual to see what customization is required. Try running the Parallel Port (Printer Interface) Check if you have a parallel printer, or the Serial Port (RS-232C) Check if you have a serial printer.
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6. If you used the option card to add an external device to your computer, did you use the proper cable to connect the device to the option card connector on the back panel? Did you perform the correct setup procedures for the software you are using with the option card? If necessary, see your software manual for instructions on running the software setup procedure.
Appendix B Power-on Diagnostics Your computer’s built-in memory (ROM) contains a series of diagnostics programs, which your computer runs automatically every time you turn on the power. These programs check internal devices such as ROM, RAM, the timer, the keyboard controller, and the hard disk drive.
Power-on diagnostics error codes and messages Table Error code Message System Board SYSTEM BOARD ERROR SYSTEM BOARD ERROR SYSTEM BOARD ERROR SYSTEM BOARD ERROR SYSTEM BOARD ERROR SYSTEM BOARD ERROR Real-time Clock SYSTEM OPTIONS NOT SET SYSTEM OPTIONS NOT SET TIME AND DATE NOT SET MEMORY SIZE ERROR Memory...
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Power-on diagnostics error codes and messages (continued) Error code Message Hard disk drive(s) and controller 1760 DISK 0 PARAMETER FAILURE 1761 DISK 1 PARAMETER FAILURE 1770 DISK 0 PARAMETER ERROR 1771 DISK 1 PARAMETER ERROR 1780 DISK 0 FAILURE 1781 DISK 1 FAILURE 1782 DISK CONTROLLER FAILURE...
Appendix C Performing System Diagnostics This appendix describes how to check the operation of the main unit and peripheral devices of your Equity 386SX. You check these devices using the diagnostics program on your Reference diskette. Run the diagnostics program if you are not sure whether a device is performing correctly.
Starting System Diagnostics To run the System diagnostics program, you must turn on your computer with the Reference diskette in drive A. If you start this program in any other way, some tests may produce strange results. To start the System diagnostics program, follow these steps: Insert the Reference diskette in drive A.
If the list correctly describes your system, press device is missing from this list, or if you wish to change the list, press or + and below. After you confirm the Device List, you can test only those items. If you decide later that you need to add a device, you must return to the Operation Menu and reselect diagnostics.
For example, you may see this menu: 1 - Run test one time - Run test multiple times 0 - Exit Suppose the first option is highlighted. If you want to select that option, just press you want to select option 2, you can either press 1 or 2; this causes the cursor block to move to that option.
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You see this menu: 1 - Add device - Delete device 0 - Finish modification To add a device to the list, select 1. The program displays a list of other devices that are not currently included in the Device List.
Select the item you wish to delete. You can delete as many devices as necessary. When the Device List is correct, select 0. The screen displays the modified Device List for a final check and these options: If the list is correct, select 0. You are now ready to select a test.
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To perform the test once, select 1. The program then displays a submenu of more detailed tests for the device you are checking. To perform the test multiple times, select 2. You see this prompt: Terminate checking if an error detected ? (Y/N) Select to terminate checking if the device produces an error,...
Resuming From an Error If an error occurs during a test, the test stops at that point, and an error code and error message appear. If you want to record the problem, you can print out the message on your printer. You see this prompt: Do you want a printout of the error m e s s a g e ( s ) ?
If an error occurs, make a copy or a printout of the error code and message, and contact your Epson dealer or service center for assistance. Attempting to correct system board errors yourself may violate your warranty agreement.
001024 If an error occurs, make a copy or a printout of the error code and message, and contact your Epson dealer or service center. Attempting to correct memory errors yourself may violate your warranty agreement.
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You can find diagrams of all the international keyboard layouts in the MS-DOS Reference Manual. If any key is incorrect, press error code and message, or print them out, and contact your Epson dealer or service center. Enter. layout. Enter. and then Then reselect the Enter.
0 - Exit If an error occurs during any of these tests, record the error code and message, or print them out. Then contact your Epson dealer or service center. When you finish testing the device, select 0 to exit.
Attribute Check To check the display attributes of the adapter card, select 2. Several messages appear showing examples of all the possible display attributes (normal intensity, high intensity, blinking, reverse, and underlining). Check the information that appears on your screen, and then respond to the prompt: Is the display correct ? (Y/N) Select if the display is correct.
After checking the character fonts, respond to the prompt: Is the display correct ? (Y/N) If the characters match the illustration, select problem with the characters on the screen, select the error message. Video Check To check the video output of your monochrome adapter, select This check displays two different screens: black and intensified white.
0 - Exit If an error occurs during any of these tests, record the error code and message, or print them out. Then contact your Epson dealer or service center. When you finish testing the device, select 0 to exit.
Attribute Check To check the display attributes of the color graphics adapter card, select 2. Several messages appear showing examples of all the possible display attributes and colors. Check the information on your screen, and respond to the prompt: Is the display correct ? (Y/N) Select if the display is correct.
After checking Is the display correct ? (Y/N) If the characters match the illustration, select problem with the characters on the screen, select N to display the error message. 40-column Character Set Check To check your 40-column character set, select 4. The character fonts that are included in the internal character generator are displayed on your screen.
If the characters match the illustration, select Y. If you find a problem with the characters on the screen, select N to display the error message. 320x200 Graphics Mode Check To check your 320x200 graphics mode, select 5. The screen displays three colored squares-green, brown, and red-against a cyan background.
640x200 Graphics Mode Check To check your 640x200 graphics mode, select 6. The screen displays three patterned squares against a contrasting background, as shown below. 640X200 GRAPHICS MODE CHECK Is the display correct ? (Y/N) If the patterns on your screen are clear and distinct, select any pattern is not clear, first check the adjustment of your monitor, and then make sure that both ends of the cable are plugged in firmly.
Screen Paging Check To check the screen paging of your monitor, select video RAM on the color graphics adapter is divided into eight independent display pages (numbered 0 through 7). This test checks the eight pages by first filling all eight with a number corresponding to the page, and then displaying each page in turn.
Light Pen Check To check the function of a light pen connected to the color graphics adapter card, select 8. This test checks that a light pen connected to the color graphics adapter is performing accurately. When you select this check, you see these prompts: Confirm light pen is connected correctly before starting the check.
Color Video Check This test displays 16 different screens, each a different color, and a message indicating the color. The screens show the following colors in the order specified below: Black Blue Green Cyan Magenta Brown White To start this test, select 9. Press any key to display each screen. On the last screen, you see this prompt: display If all the colors are correct, select...
Run All Above Checks To run all the tests on the menu in sequence, select 11. When you choose this option, all checks for the color adapter and CRT are performed automatically in sequential order. Although you do not start each test, you must still supply the appropriate responses to progress from one test to the next.
You can select the individual tests from the following menu. DISKETTE DRIVE(S) AND CONTROLLER CHECK MENU 1 - Sequential seek check 2 - Random seek check 3 - Write, read check 4 - Disk change check 5 - Run all above checks 0 - Exit Before it performs any checks, the program determines the number of diskette drives installed in your computer.
Select option 1 from the menu to start this test. The program displays the number of each track it finds. For example, with a 1.44MB diskette, the first message you see is: Current track is The track number counts down from 79 to 0 (39 to 0 for a 360KB diskette).
If you have only one diskette drive, you see a prompt to remove the the Reference diskette and insert a blank diskette before running the test. You see these messages: If using drive 1, remove your Reference Disk. Insert a formatted blank disk in the drive before starting the check.
When you run the test for 1.44MB, 1.2MB, or 720KB drive, you see this prompt: Remove the disk from drive 1. Remove the diskette. The program displays the following prompt: Re-insert the disk into drive 1. Reinsert the diskette. If no errors occur, the menu reappears. An error occurs if you do not remove or replace the diskette in time or if the drive is malfunctioning.
Parallel Port (Printer Interface) Check Use this option to test the operation of the primary parallel printer port. To perform the test, you must insert a special loop- back connector into the parallel port so that the computer can check individual pins of the port. Contact your dealer if you need a loop-back connector.
Parallel Port (on Video Adapter) Check Use this option to test the operation of an additional parallel port on a video adapter. To perform the test, you must insert the special loop-back connector into the parallel port on the video adapter so that the computer can check individual pins of the port.
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First, the program checks the serial port control lines to see that they are able to change from high to low and vice versa. No messages are displayed during this part of the test unless an error occurs. The second test is an echo back check during which the port sends data to itself in a fixed data format, at all the possible baud rates.
Alternate Serial Port Check Use this option to test the functions of an additional serial communications (RS-232C) port. To perform the test you must insert a special loop-back connector into the alternate serial port so that the computer can check individual pins of the port. This test is identical to the check for the primary serial port.
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If your printer prints different characters than you see in the illustration, you may need to be careful with certain software. The bit-image data is sent to the printer using a command (ESC K) compatible with Epson and IBM printers. Note Even if the test runs only store many characters in its buffer.
Hard Disk Drive(s) and Controller Check Use this option to test the performance of the hard disk drive(s) installed in your computer. If any errors occur, have your dealer or service center check and service the drive. When you select option 17 from the Device List, you see this menu: HARD DISK DRIVE(S) AND CONTROLLER CHECK MENU 1 - Seek check...
Select option 1 from the menu to start this test. The program displays the number of each cylinder it finds. For example, with a hard disk, the first message you see is: Current cylinder is nnn where is the largest cylinder number used on the drive. The cylinder number counts down to 0.
If an error occurs, make a note of the code and message. Then use the Non-destructive surface analysis (option 3 on the Hard Disk Format Menu) to check the condition of the hard disk. If this analysis shows no other problems with the disk, follow these steps: Back up all the files on your hard disk.
Press when you have viewed the table. If the results show Enter any read error tracks, run the write/read test (described above), and follow the instructions there. Run All Above Checks To run all the tests on the menu in sequence, select 4. When you choose this option, all checks for the hard disk drive(s) and controller are performed automatically in sequential order.
Error Codes and Messages The following table lists all the error codes and messages that may appear during system diagnostics testing. System diagnostics error codes and messages Error code System board Memory Keyboard Monochrome display adapter and CRT Message CPU ERROR ROM CHECKSUM ERROR TIMER COUNTER REGISTER ERROR TIMER COUNTER ERROR...
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System diagnostics error codes and messages (continued) Message Error code Color graphics adapter and CRT V-RAM ERROR ATTRIBUTE ERROR CHARACTER SET ERROR 40-COLUMN CHARACTER SET ERROR COLOR GRAPHICS ERROR 640 x 200 GRAPHICS MODE ERROR SCREEN PAGING ERROR LIGHT PEN ERROR COLOR VIDEO ERROR Diskette drive(s) and controller SEQUENTIAL SEEK ERROR...
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System diagnostics error codes and messages (continued) Error code Message Alternate serial port 1201 control signal ALWAYS LOW 1201 control signal ALWAYS HIGH 1202 TIMEOUT ERROR 1203 VERIFY ERROR Dot-matrix printer 1401 status Hard disk drive(s) and controller 1701 SEEK ERROR 1702 WRITE ERROR 1703...
Physically formatting a hard disk erases any data it contains. If you have any data on the disk or you are unsure if formatting is necessary, contact your Epson dealer for assistance. Physically Formatting a Hard Disk...
In addition to destroying all the data on the hard disk, formatting removes any partitions defined on the disk by SELECT or FDISK and the logical formatting performed by SELECT or FORMAT. After you physically format a new or used hard disk (using option 1 or 2 of the Hard Disk Format Menu), you need to install MS-DOS.
The formatting options work as follows: first scans the disk (if it has no defective track Format table) for defective (bad) tracks and lets you decide which tracks to mark as bad. Then the program formats the disk and marks those bad tracks so they are never used to store data.
Many hard disk drives come with a printed list of bad tracks but without the bad tracks flagged on the disk. Other hard disks (such as those supplied by Epson) come with the bad tracks already flagged. If you are formatting a new hard disk that has never been formatted, select the the disk.
Option 1, Format If you select 1 -Format you see the following (for a disk that does not have a defective track table): Format Hard Disk Scan hard disk to get defective track information (If the disk already h as a defective track table, you do not see the message because the disk does not need to be scanned for bad tracks.) Select...
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Next you see this prompt: Accept recommended skewed sectors per head in format : 0 ? (Y/N) For an Epson hard disk drive, accept the recommended value of 0. For another type of drive, use the value recommended in the documentation for the drive.
The program now allows you to edit the table of defective tracks: At the bottom of the table is this prompt: Modify defective track table ? (Y/N) Select to leave the table as it is. Then skip the following section and go on to “Formatting the Disk,” below. To modify the defective track entries, select Modifying the Defective Track Table If you select...
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2. Type the number of the cylinder containing the bad track and press Enter. Enter head number Type the head number for the bad track and press To cancel the operation, press When you complete a valid entry, it appears in the table and you can add the next bad track, if necessary.
Formatting the Disk When you are ready to start formatting the disk, you see the following warning: WARNING? ALL PARTITIONS OF HARD DISK, NOT JUST IN MS-DOS PARTITION! you want to start formatting ? (Y/N) If you are not sure you want to format the hard disk, select you are sure, select to cancel: DOUBLE CHECK THAT YOU HAVE BACKUP...
You see the head and cylinder numbers decrease as the program progresses. When formatting is complete, the program flags any bad tracks and you see a series of messages like these: Format finished. Flagging bad tracks... Cylinder is Format completed. Press ENTER to return to the menu.
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this test, select start from the Hard Disk Format Menu. You see these analysis messages: Analyze Hard Disk Read/Save/Write/Read/Restore/Read check for all tracks... Current cylinder is nnnn As the program checks each track, it counts the cylinder numbers (nnnn) down to zero. When the test is complete, the program displays a report on the status of the disk, including table of unflagged tracks that produced write, read errors-such as the following:...
To flag the error tracks as bad, select Y. You see a list of the tracks as they are flagged and these messages: Flagging bad tracks... Cylinder is 237, head is 2 Press ENTER to return to the menu. Press to return to the Hard Disk Format Menu.
If the program finds errors, the screen displays a table of the tracks that gave errors, similar to the one the Destructive surface analysis displays. After the status reports, you see this message: Press ENTER to return to the menu. Check the information displayed.
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D-14 Physically Formatting a Hard Disk...
Appendix E Hard Disk Drive Types This appendix lists the types of hard disk drives you can use in your Equity 386SX. Check this table and the documentation supplied with your hard disk to find the correct number for the type of hard disk drive installed in your computer.
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Type no Cylinders ESDI ESDI ESDI ESDI ESDI ESDI ESDI ESDI 64-255 Hard Disk Drive Types Heads Sectors Precomp 1023 1022 1022 1024 1024 1024 1022 Landing Drive name 40.6 40.5 10.2 20.4 42.6 1023 42.5 none none none none none none none...
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Notes: 1. Miniscribe 8425F, Seagate ST125 2. Conner CP-344 or Miniscribe 8051A can be used as type 17 3. For Western Digital ESDI HDC or Drive Maker default setting 4. Micropolis 1325, Ataal 3085, Lanstor Lan64, Maxtor XT1O85, Newbury NDR1085 5.
Appendix F Specifications CPU and Memory 16-bit CPU On-board memory Math coprocessor Controllers Diskette Hard disk 80386SX microprocessor, 16 MHz or simulated 8 MHz clockrate, selectable through a switch or through software 24-bit address and 16-bit data bus 1MB RAM on main system board; expandable using 256KB or 1MB SIMMs to 2MB, 4MB, 6MB, 8MB, 10MB, 12MB, or 14MB (maximum);...
Interfaces Serial Parallel Auxiliary Option slots Speaker Clock/calendar Power Supply Mass Storage Standard Optional F-2 Specifications RS-232C, programmable, asynchronous; DB-9P male connector Standard 8-bit parallel; DB-25S female connector Mini DIN (6-pin) connector for IRQ 12 mouse or other device Five standard input/output expansion slots (one with 8-bit bus and four with 16-bit bus);...
Physical Characteristics Width Depth Height Weight (without keyboard) Specifications 15.7 inches (400 mm) 16.4 inches (416.5 mm) 6.2 inches (157 mm) Single diskette drive model: 23.2 lb (10.5 kg) 40MB or 100MB hard disk drive model: 24.9 lb (11.3 kg)
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G l o s s a r y Absolute pathname A pathname that begins with the backslash character. An absolute pathname tells MS-DOS how to find its way to a given directory, starting at the root directory. See also Relative pathname.
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Auto speed The Equity 386SX feature that enables it to automatically switch from 16 MHz to simulated 8 MHz speed when accessing the diskette drive (for copy-protected programs). Backup An extra copy of a program, data file, or disk, kept in case your working copy is damaged or lost.
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A binary digit (0 or 1). The smallest unit of computer storage. The value of a bit represents the presence (1) or absence (0) of an electric charge. Boot To load the operating system into the computer’s memory. Byte A sequence or group of eight bits that represents one character. C G A Color Graphics Adapter.
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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 is loaded and ready to receive instructions. The default command prompt displays the current drive and directory. If you are logged onto drive A, the command prompt looks like this: A>.
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Copy-protected program A type of program that cannot be copied. Some copy-protected programs require you to leave the program diskette in the diskette drive while you are using it. Some also require the computer to be running at simulated 8 MHz instead of 16 MHz. See also Auto speed.
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Data diskette A formatted diskette on which you store data files (as opposed to program files). Data length The number of bits per character in serial transmissions. Default Values or settings that take 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.
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Diagnostics The tests and procedures the computer performs to check its internal circuitry and set up its configuration. DIP switch A small switch on a computer, option card, or printer that controls a particular function. DIP stands for Dual In-line Package.
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The Disk Operating System that controls the computer’s input and output functions. See Operating system. Double-density A type of diskette format that allows you to store twice as much data as the standard-density format. A 3 l/z-inch double-density diskette can store 720KB of data. A 5 ‘/+inch double-density diskette can store 360KB of data.
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Extended Memory Memory above 1MB that is accessed by the protected mode of the 80386SX microprocessor and available to some application programs and operating systems. Extended partition An additional MS-DOS partition; you can create one primary MS-DOS partition and one extended partition. Extension A suffix of up to three characters that you can add to a filename to better identify it.
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Fixed disk See Hard disk. Format To prepare 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.
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Interface A physical or software connection used to transmit data between equipment or programs. Internal command An MS-DOS command that is stored in the command processor of the operating system; it is not a separate program file. Examples include COPY, DEL, RENAME, and DIR. Jumper A small device that connects two pins on an option card, the SIMM card, or the main system board to activate a particular...
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Main system board The board built into your computer which contains 1MB of memory and the circuitry the computer requires to operate. Math coprocessor An optional device that enables the computer to process certain mathematical calculations faster. MCGA Monochrome/Color Graphics Adapter. A type of display adapter that runs either a monochrome or color graphics monitor.
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Memory on card The additional memory on an option card installed in the computer. Multi-graphics Adapter. 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.
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MS-DOS Microsoft Disk Operating System. The operating system that comes with your computer. See Operating system. Network server The master computer in a network which provides storage space for the other computers connected to it. The network server can write files to and read files from the other computers in the network.
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Option card A circuit board you install inside the computer to provide additional capabilities, such as more memory or a modem. Parallel The type of interface that transmits data in groups of bits. See Interface and Serial. Parameter A qualifier added to a command that tells MS-DOS what particular conditions to look for and specifies information such as what data you want to process and where to locate or store a file.
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Peripheral A device (such as a printer or a modem) connected to a computer that depends on the computer for its operation. Port A physical input/output socket on a computer where you can connect a peripheral device. Power-on diagnostics The system tests the computer runs to check its internal circuitry and configuration each time you turn it on.
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R A M Random Access Memory. The portion of the computer’s memory used to run programs and store data while you work. All data stored in RAM is erased when you turn off the computer; so you must store any data you want to keep on a diskette or hard disk.
Read Only Memory. A portion of memory that can only be read and cannot be used for temporary storage. ROM retains its contents even when you turn off the power. Root directory The top-level directory in MS-DOS, designated by a \ (backslash).
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Source diskette The diskette that you are reading or copying data from during a copy or backup operation. SP card The circuit board inside the computer that provides the serial and parallel interfaces. Stop bit A signal sent in serial communications to mark the end of a character.
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Tracks Addressable, concentric circles on a disk, resembling the grooves on a record, which help to divide the disk into separate accessible areas. There are 80 tracks on each side of a double- sided 1.44MB, 1.2MB, or 720KB diskette and 40 tracks on each side of a double-sided 360KB diskette.
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Index Absolute pathname, 4-20 -21 Alternate parallel port check, C-28 Alternate serial port check, C-31 APPEND, 4-22 Auto speed function, 2-12 -14, 3-5 AUTOEXEC.BAT, 4-5, 4-10, 4-40 -42 Backing up data, 3-20 -22, 3-24, 4-30 -35 with BACKUP, 3-24, 4-34 -35 with DISKCOPY, 3-20, 3-24, 4-30 -34 BACKUP, 3-24, 4-34 -35...
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Cover, removing, 5-5-7 replacing, 5-22 -23 CPU, F-1 CPU speed, 2-12 -14, 3-5 CPU SPEED switch, 2-12 -14, 3-5 CTRL ALT DEL, 3-9 CTRL BREAK, 3-8 CTRL C, 3-8 Current directory, 4-19, 4-41 changing, 4-19 Current drive, 4-4 -5, changing, 4-4 -5 DATE, 2-14, 4-8 -9 Date, setting, 2-16 -18, 4-8 -9 Default directory, see Current...
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EGA card, see Video cards EMM386.SYS, 4-43 -46 Enhanced graphics adapter, see Video cards Environmental requirements, F - 3 4 Epson Consumer Information Center number, Intro-5 ERASE, 4-15 Error codes and messages, 2-36, 2-29, A-1, B-1 -3, C-37 -39 Expanded memory, 4-43 -46...
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Interfaces, list of, F-2 setting serial and parallel, 2-24 -25 Internal command, 4-5 Jumper settings, changing, 5-14 -21 Keyboard, adjusting angle, 1-15 cable, 1-14 check, C-10 -11 connecting, 1-13 -15 controller and keyboard check, layout, 3-6-7, F-3 problems, A-8 special keys, 3-6 -7 LIM EMS, 2-6, 4-43 -46 Loading MS-DOS, 4-2 -3 Location, choosing for computer, 1-3...