Page 2
FCC COMPLIANCE STATEMENT This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a class B digital device, pursuant to Part 15 of the FCC Rules. These limits are designed to provide reasonable protection against harmful interference in a residential installation. This equipment generates, uses, and can radiate radio frequency energy and, if not installed and used in accordance with the instructions, may cause harmful interference to radio and television reception.
Page 3
® EPSON User’s Guide This manual is printed on recycled paper and is 100% recyclable.
Important Safety Instructions 1. Read all of these instructions and save them for later reference. 2. Follow all warnings and instructions marked on the computer. 3. Unplug the computer from the wall outlet before cleaning. Use a damp cloth for cleaning; do not use liquid or aerosol cleaners. 4.
Page 6
10. Do not allow the computer’s power cord to become damaged or frayed. 11. If you use an extension cord with the computer, make sure the total of the ampere ratings of the devices plugged into the extension cord does not exceed the ampere rating for the extension cord.
Page 7
Instructions Importantes de Sécurité Lire complètement les instructions qui suivent et les conserver pour references futures. Bien suivre tous les avertissements et les instructions indiqués sur l’ordinateur. Débrancher l’ordinateur de toute sortie murale avant le nettoyage. Utiliser un chiffon humide; ne jamais utiliser un nettoyeur liquide ou une bonbonne aerosol.
Page 8
S’assurer que le cordon d’alimentation de l’ordinateur n’est pas effrite. 11. Dans le cas où on utilise un cordon de rallonge avec l’ordinateur, on doit s’assurer que la valeur totale d’ampères branches dans le cordon n’excède en aucun temps les ampères du cordon de rallonge.
Page 10
Chapter 2 Running the SETUP Program Starting the SETUP Program ....Entering SETUP Options ..... . Selecting Options .
Page 11
Inserting and Removing Diskettes ..Using a Single Diskette Drive System ..Formatting Diskettes ... . . Making Backup Copies .
Page 12
Chapter 5 lnstalling and Removing Drives How to Use This Chapter Setting the Hard Disk Drive Jumpers Where to Go Next ......5-4 Installing a Hard Disk in the Vertical Bay .
Page 14
Ihtroduction Your new Epson offering flexibility and expandability in a compact design. Standard features include: MHz, 486DX/33 MHz, or 486DX2/50 MHz 486SX/25 microprocessor 4MB of internal memory, expandable to 36MB System and video BIOS shadow RAM 8KB of internal processor cache, with support for 64KB,...
With 512KB standard video memory, the built-in VGA adapter supports resolutions of up to 800 x 600 (256 colors), and 640 x 480 (64K colors). Extend the video memory to 1MB to support resolutions of 1280 x 1024 (16 colors), 1024 x 768 colors), or 800 x 600 (64K colors).
Cache Memory You can increase the cache memory on your main system board to 256KB by having additional SRAM chips installed by an Authorized Epson Servicer. Additional cache allows your system to access frequently used data faster. Video Memory You can add video memory chips to your system board to...
How to Use This Manual You don’t have to read everything in this book to use your computer; see the following chapter summaries to find the sections you need. provides steps for setting up your system and Chapter 1 connecting peripheral devices. 2 describes how to run the SETUP program to define Chapter your computer’s configuration.
International marketing locations are listed at the back of this manual. If you purchased your computer in the United States, Epson provides the following support services through the Epson Connection...
Chapter 1 Setting Up Your System To set up your computer, follow the steps in this chapter. If you purchased additional options, see Chapters 4 and 5 for instructions on how to install them before you set up your system. Setting Up Your System...
Choosing a Location When selecting a place to set up your system, choose a safe, convenient location that provides the following: A flat, hard surface. Surfaces like beds and carpets attract static electricity, which can erase data on your disks, damage the computer’s circuitry, and prevent proper ventilation.
Page 22
Follow these steps to connect your VGA monitor to the computer’s built-in VGA port: 1. Place the monitor and computer so the backs are facing you. 2. There should be two cables provided with your monitor: the monitor cable (to connect it to the computer) and the power cable (to connect it to a power source).
Page 23
4. If the connector has retaining screws, tighten them. 5. Plug the monitor power cord into the monitor’s power inlet. 6. Plug the other end of the power cord into an appropriate grounded electrical outlet or, if the cord has the correct type of plug, into the power outlet on the back of the computer.
Connecting a Printer or Other Device Your computer has one parallel and two serial ports. To connect a printer or other peripheral device, follow the instructions below. Using the Parallel Port Follow these steps to connect a parallel printer to your computer: 1.
Page 25
3. 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. 4. Plug the printer’s power cord into an appropriate grounded (earthed) electrical outlet.
Using the Serial Ports If you have a printer, a modem, or other peripheral device with a serial interface, you can connect it to one of the serial (RS-232C) ports on the back of the computer. These ports use a DB-9P connector, so be sure you have a compatible cable.
Connecting the Keyboard To connect the keyboard, hold the cable connector so the arrow on the connector faces up. Insert it into the port marked K/B, as shown below. Caution Although the connectors and ports for the keyboard and mouse are physically identical, they cannot be used interchangeably.
change the angle of the keyboard by adjusting the legs bottom. Turn it over and flip each leg upward until it locks into place. It is important to select will prevent wrist fatigue. (You may even want to purchase a wrist pad-sold at computer stores-for further comfort.) To lower the keyboard, press each leg back into its slot.
Page 29
To connect the mouse to the built-in mouse port, plug the connector into the port marked MOUSE, as shown below. Caution Although the connectors and ports for the mouse and keyboard are physically identical, they cannot be used interchangeably. Be sure to plug the mouse connector into the MOUSE port, or you may damage your system.
Connecting the Power Cord Follow these steps to connect the power cord: 1. Plug the power cord 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 outlet.
Turning On the Computer After you set up your system, you’re ready to turn on the power. Check the following safety precautions to avoid accidentally damaging your computer or injuring yourself: q Do not connect or disconnect any peripheral device cables (including the mouse or keyboard) or power cables unless the computer power is off.
Page 32
4. To turn on the computer, press the power button on the right side of the front panel. The power indicator on the left side of the front panel lights up. After a few seconds, the screen displays a count of the system memory, and then the computer performs a power-on diagnostics routine to make sure everything is working correctly.
If there is no operating system installed on your computer, you see an error message. Ignore the message for now; once you install the operating system, you will not see this message. If MS-DOS@ is already installed, you may see the command prompt such as Microsoft Windows.
Chapter 2 Running the SETUP Program The first time you use your computer, you need to run the SETUP program to define how your system is set up. You may need to run it again later if you change your configuration. SETUP is stored in the computer’s read-only memory (ROM), so you can run it any time you turn on or reset your system.
Page 35
The configuration you define through SETUP is stored in a special area of memory called CMOS RAM. This memory is backed up by a battery, so it is not erased when you turn off or reset the computer. Whenever you reboot the computer, it checks the settings, and if it discovers a difference between the information in the CMOS RAM and its actual hardware configuration, it prompts you to run SETUP.
Starting the SETUP Program To start SETUP, make sure there is no diskette in the diskette drive; then turn on your computer. (If your computer is already on, turn it off, wait 20 seconds, and then turn it on again.) After the self test, you see the following prompt at the bottom of the screen: Press <Del>...
Entering SETUP Options You can verify or change all SETUP functions except password option from menu option 2, Run SETUP. To select this option, press see the SETUP screen. This screen displays the size of both the base and extended memory and whether a math coprocessor is installed.
Setting the Date and Time The real-time clock in your computer continuously 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 them, unless you need to adjust the time for daylight savings or other seasonal adjustments.
None for drive D. q If you installed a SCSI drive, select None for drive D. q If your computer came with an Epson 120MB hard disk drive (or if you installed this drive yourself), select number 39 for drive C.
Hard Disk Drive Types The following table lists the types of standard hard disk drives you can use. Check this table and the documentation supplied with your hard disk to find the correct type number for your drive. If none of the types listed matches your drive, see “Defining Your Own Drive Type”...
Page 41
Actual size when formatted may be slightly different than the size listed on the drive label Hard disk drive supported in translate mode Epson drives 2 - 8 Running the SETUP Program...
Defining Your Own Drive Type If the parameters for your hard disk (listed in its documentation) do not match any of the types listed in the table above, you can define your own type. Follow these steps: 1. With the cursor on the drive you are defining, press until you see type 47.
Page 43
Video display type options Select VGA/PGA/EGA* Color 40x25 Color 80x25 Monochrome Default setting For a composite color monitor, such as a color television with video input, try selecting Color 80x25. If the monitor’s resolution is poor, run SETUP again and select Color 40x25. If you have two display adapters of different types, select the setting for the one you want to be your primary display adapter.
Setting the Processor Speed System speed your system. When you select Fast, your system operates at your processor’s highest speed, such as 25,33, or 50 MHz. The Slow option simulates an 8 MHz processor to provide compatibility with older application programs. At fast speed, your system can access memory faster, so your programs work faster.
Setting the Diskette Seek Parameter If you enable the Diskette seek test option, the system checks for a diskette drive during its power-on diagnostics. If no diskette drive is connected, you see a diskette drive error. Disable this option if you want your system to boot when no diskette drive is connected.
Four additional shadow options allow you to shadow 32KB at the memory addresses listed enable one or more of these shadow options if, for example, you are using option cards that contain ROM. You the memory on the card to your system’s RAM using these options.
Setting the Peripherals Options The Peripherals setup option lets you change the settings for the built-in interface ports and disk drive controllers. You may need to change these settings if you install an interface on an option card. The following table lists the possible settings. I/O control options Peripherals option Setting Serial...
Setting the Password Options SETUP lets you enter a new password or disable an existing password to control who can access your system. A second password option allows you to set a hot key to disable your keyboard and mouse until you enter your system password. Entering a Password Follow these steps to enter a password: 1.
Changing or Deleting a Password If you want to change your password, follow the same steps as to enter a new password. When the cursor is at the Enter password option, type the new password you want to use. To delete a password, select Not Installed for the Password state option.
Using the System Board Help Function SETUP provides a system board help function that contains a diagram of your system board in addition to the following information: DIP switch settings Jumper settings Identification of connectors Correct SIMM configurations External cache configurations Hard disk drive types System key combinations.
Saving Your Settings and Exiting SETUP When you leave SETUP, you can either save the settings you have changed or exit the program without saving any changes. To save your settings, follow these steps: 1. Press 2. Select option 6, SAVE settings and exit, and press [Enter.
Post-SETUP Procedures If you have just run SETUP for the first time and your system has not been configured, you now need to install the operating system on your computer. See your operating system manual for instructions. After you have installed your operating system, you can install any software you plan to use.
Chapter 3 Using Your Computer This chapter briefly describes the following operations: Working comfortably Using disks and disk drives Using special keys on the keyboard Stopping a command or program Resetting the computer Using a password Using the hot key feature Changing the processor speed.
Sitting at Your Computer When you use the computer, try to keep your elbows, hips, and knees bent at approximately 90 degree angles and keep your wrists as close to horizontal as possible. (Your hands, forearms, and thighs should be horizontal and your upper arms and lower legs should be vertical.) Your feet should rest firmly on the floor or a footrest.
Work in a relaxed, natural, upright position and let the chair support you. Your elbows should be near your body and level with or slightly lower than the keyboard so your hands rest lightly on the keys. To help you keep your wrists straight, the slope of the keyboard should be no more than 25 degrees.
Positioning and Viewing the Monitor Place the monitor directly in front of you and sit about an arm’s length away from it. To minimize glare and reduce eye fatigue, position the monitor so that sunlight, desk lamps, and overhead lights do not shine directly on the screen. When you are sitting in front of the monitor, the top of the screen should be slightly below eye level so you look down, rather than up, at the screen.
Using Disks and Disk Drives The disk drives in your computer allow you to store data on disk, and then retrieve and use your stored data. This section tells you how to: Choose the right diskettes for your drive Write-protect diskettes Insert and remove diskettes Use a single diskette drive system Format diskettes...
Page 58
N o t e MB stands for megabyte, which equals 1024KB (or 1,048,576 bytes). KB stands for kilobyte, which equals 1024 bytes. Each byte represents a single character, such as A, $, or 3. 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.
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 it or delete any files it contains. On a 3.5-inch diskette, the write-protect device is a small switch on the back of the diskette in the lower right corner, shown below.
Page 60
To write-protect a 5.25-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 5.25-inch diskettes. To remove the write protection, peel off the write-protect tab. Some program diskettes have no switch or notch so they are accidentally erased or altered.
Insertting and Removing Diskettes To insert a diskette into a 3.5-inch drive, hold the diskette with the label facing up and the metal shutter leading into the drive, as shown in the following illustration. Slide the diskette into the drive until it clicks into place. To insert a diskette into a 5.25-inch drive, hold the diskette with the label facing up and the read/write slot leading into the drive.
Using a Single Diskette Drive System Most operating systems expect the computer to have at least two diskette drives and display prompts and messages accordingly. MS-DOS, for example, recognizes the first diskette drive (the top drive) as drive A and a second diskette drive as drive B.
Formatting Diskettes Before you can store data on a new diskette, you must format it. Formatting prepares the diskette so that the operating system can write data on it. You need to do this only once, before you use the diskette for the first time. You can also reformat previously used diskettes to store new data.
Caring for Diskettes Follow these simple precautions to safeguard your data and lengthen the life of your diskettes: q Avoid leaving diskettes near magnetic fields that can erase the data, such as those generated by electric appliances or cordless telephones. Never place a diskette on top of your monitor or near the hard disk drive.
Page 65
Most operating systems let you keep related files together in directories and subdirectories so they are easy to find and use. See your operating system manual for instructions on managing your files and directories. Note A hard disk must be partitioned and formatted before you can use it.
Special Keys on the Keyboard Certain keys on your keyboard serve special functions when your computer is running your operating system or application programs, as described in the table below. Using Your Computer 3-14...
Special key functions (continued) the key once to turn on a function and again to turn it off. When the function is enabled, the corresponding light in the upper right corner of the keyboard is on. Stopping a Command or Program You may sometimes need to stop a command or program while it is running.
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 your operating system and try again.
Using Password If you set a system access password when you ran the SETUP program, you must enter it every time you turn on or reset the computer. Follow these steps to use your password: 1. If you do not have a hard disk, insert your system diskette in drive A.
2. When you want to disable the keyboard and mouse, enter your hot key combination. The keyboard and mouse lock up and do not respond to typed entries or mouse movement. 3. To resume activity, type your password and press Changing or Deleting a Password To change or delete your password, you must run the SETUP program and follow the instructions for entering a password in...
Page 71
If you want your computer to always start at slow speed, you can change the default setting through SETUP. See Chapter 2 for instructions. Some copy-protected programs require the computer to run at slow speed while accessing the program on a diskette. These programs also usually require you to leave a key disk-the diskette that contains the copy protection-in the diskette drive.
Chapter 4 Installing and Removing Options You can enhance the performance of your computer by adding optional equipment such as memory modules, option cards, an Intel OverDrive processor or math coprocessor, or video memory. This chapter describes how to install (and remove) these options, as well as how to change the jumper and DIP switch settings inside the computer.
If you want to add cache memory, contact your Authorized Epson Servicer or call the Epson Connection for a referral. Do not attempt to install cache chips yourself. Installing and Removing Options...
Locating the lnternal Components As you follow the instructions in this chapter, refer to the following illustration to locate the different components inside your computer. Installing and Removing Options...
Removing the Cover You need to remove the computer’s cover to install any of the options described in this chapter or to install or remove a disk drive (as described in Chapter 5). Follow these steps: Turn off the computer and then any peripheral devices (including the monitor and printer).
Page 76
5. From the front of the computer, grasp the sides of the cover and pull it straight toward you until it stops, just before it reaches the front of the computer. Then lift it off at an angle as shown below. 6.
Changing the Jumper and DIP Switch Settings The main system board in your computer has a number of jumpers and DIP (Dual Inline Package) switches. These devices control the operation of your system and provide configuration information to your CMOS ROM. The jumpers control the following functions: q Enable or disable the built-in VGA display adapter q Specify the type of CPU installed...
Page 78
Display adapter and CPU jumper settings Jumper Setting A * * * Factory setting ** Factory set according to system CPU External cache jumper settings * Factory setting; change jumpers only if external cache chips are installed by servicer DIP switch settings Switch Setting 1 * *...
Setting the Jumpers If you need to change any jumper settings, follow these steps: 1. Refer to the illustration on page 4-3 to locate the jumpers, 2. If there are any option cards installed, and you want to change the setting for jumper J3, you may need to remove the cards.
Setting the DIP Switches If you need to change any of the DIP switch settings, follow these steps: 1. Locate the DIP switch block near the center of the system board, shown on page 4-3. The switches are numbered 1 through 5, and the ON position is marked on the block. 2.
Memory Modules (SIMMs) Your computer comes with 4MB of memory installed on the system board. By installing memory modules-also called SIMMs-you can increase the amount of memory in your computer up to 36MB. There are two SIMM sockets on the main system board, and each can contain one memory module.
Page 82
70ns (nanoseconds) or faster. Be sure all the SIMMs operate at the same speed. q Your computer can use any SIMM that complies with industry standards; however, it is best to use Epson SIMM option kits to ensure reliability and compatibility. lnserting SlMMs Follow these steps to install SIMMs: 1.
Page 83
4. Push the SIMM into the socket until it is seated firmly in the slot. Then tilt it upright, as shown below, guiding the hole at each end of the SIMM over the retaining post at each end of the SIMM socket. If it does not go in smoothly, do not force it;...
Removing SlMMs If you need to remove SIMMs from your computer (to install different ones, for example), follow the steps below. 1. Remove any option cards that may be blocking your access to the SIMM sockets. See page 4-19 for instructions. 2.
Installing an Option Card This section explains how to install an option card in your computer. Your computer has four option slots to accommodate up to four 8-bit or 16-bit option cards. Usually it does not matter which slot an option card occupies as long as the card fits in the slot.
Page 86
Follow these steps to install an option card: 1. If you are installing a card in the option slot for the first time, you need to remove the metal cover for that slot on the inside back panel. Remove the retaining screw securing the option slot cover to the computer.
Page 87
4. Hold the card along the top corners and guide it into the connector, as shown below. Once the connectors reach the slot, push the card in firmly (but carefully) to insert it fully. You should feel the card fit into place.
Using the VGA Feature Connector Your computer includes an alternate VGA interface (feature connector) on the main system board. If you install a high-resolution graphics or a full-motion, multi-media adapter card in one of the computer’s option slots, this connector allows you to access the standard VGA signals provided by your system circuitry.
Page 89
2. Attach one end of the feature cable to the alternate VGA interface on the main system board near the back panel, as shown below. Align the cable so the red wire along one edge is closest to pin 1 in the socket. 3.
Removing an Option Card You may need to remove an option card installed in your computer to access components on the main system board-to change a jumper setting, for example. You may also want to remove a card if you no longer need it. Follow these steps: 1.
Removing the Option Card Connector Board You may want to remove the option card connector board to access certain components on the main system board, such as the disk drive controllers. Follow these steps: 1. Remove any option cards. (See the instructions above.) 2.
Replacing the Option Card Connector Board If you removed the option card connector board to access any system components, refer to the illustration on page 4-14 as you follow these steps: 1. Position the board above its slot and then firmly push it straight in.
Page 93
Complete instructions for installing the processor are provided in the manual that comes with it. Please follow those instructions carefully, along with the following guidelines: Although the OverDrive processor User’s Guide instructs you to remove the main system board from the computer, this is not necessary.
Replacing the Processor Chip If you need to remove the existing microprocessor chip to replace it with a math coprocessor or OverDrive chip, follow these steps: 1. Use the illustration on page 4-3 to locate the processor socket on the system board. Caution Make sure you ground yourself by touching the metal surface on the inside of the computer’s back panel before...
Page 95
5. Position the processor chip over the socket, making sure the notched edge of the chip (marked with a dot) aligns with pin 1 (the extra hole) on the socket, as shown below. 6. Make sure the pins in the processor chip are directly over the holes in the socket.
Increasing the Video Memory Your computer comes with at least 512KB of video memory. You can increase the video memory to 1MB by installing four 256K x 4-bit DRAM, 20-pin, ZIP (Zig-zag Inline Package) chips. This is useful for running graphics-intensive applications or for supporting resolutions up to 1024 x 768 or more on your monitor.
Page 97
Caution To avoid generating static electricity and damaging the memory chips, ground yourself by touching the metal surface on the inside of the computer’s back panel. Then remain as stationary as possible while you install them. 3. Remove the memory chips from their package and inspect each one.
Contact your Authorized Epson Servicer or Epson Accessories to get a replacement battery or to install the new battery for you. If you want to replace the battery yourself, follow the instructions in this section.
Page 99
Follow these steps to replace the battery: 1. See the illustration on page 4-3 to locate the battery. It is attached to the base of the computer case, next to the drive bay. 2. To disconnect the battery from the main system board, unplug the connector from socket CN3 (BAT), as shown below.
Page 100
4. Remove the new battery from its package and position it so the Velcro faces down and the cable faces the power supply. Then push it down onto the bottom of the case. 4-29 Installing and Removing Options...
Page 101
5. Connect the battery cable to connector CN3. 6. Follow the steps on page 4-31 to replace the computer’s cover. Then run SETUP to reconfigure your system and reset the date and time for the real-time clock. See Chapter 2 for instructions.
Replacing the Cover When you are ready to replace the computer’s cover, follow these steps: 1. Facing the front of the computer, position the cover so the lip on its bottom edge slides under the guiderails along both sides of the computer case, as shown below. 2.
3. Replace the three cover retaining screws, as shown below. 4. 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.
Although your drive may look different from the ones illustrated here, you should be able to install it the same way. If you are installing or removing a non-Epson drive, some of the steps in this chapter may not apply; see the documentation that came with your drive for more information.
Page 105
Your computer can hold up to three drives in two horizontal drive bays and one vertical drive bay. The upper horizontal bay contains the diskette drive that came with your system. If your system came with only one diskette drive, you can install an additional device of one of the following types in the lower horizontal drive bay: q 5¼-inch-wide diskette drive, dual diskette drive, tape drive, CD-ROM drive, or other storage device...
Your computer may have a hard disk drive already installed in the vertical drive bay. If not, you can install one hard disk drive in this bay. It is best to install your computer’s first hard disk drive in the vertical drive bay.
Setting the Hard Disk Drive Jumpers Most hard disk drives have jumpers that must be set for the drive to work properly with the computer. The jumpers tell the computer whether you are using one hard disk drive or two. If you purchased your computer with a hard disk drive already installed, these jumpers have been set correctly for your system.
Installing a Hard Disk in the Vertical Bay You should install your computer’s first hard disk drive in the vertical drive bay. This section describes: q Removing the mounting frames from the hard disk drive (if necessary) q Installing the hard disk drive in the vertical drive bay q Connecting the cables.
Page 109
Follow these steps to remove the mounting frames: 1. On your hard disk drive, there may be a plastic guiderail and metal grounding plate attached to one of the mounting frames. If so, remove the screws securing them to the mounting frame, as shown below, and remove the guiderail and grounding plate.
Installing the Hard Disk To install the hard disk drive, you first need to attach it to the mounting plate in the vertical drive bay. Follow these steps: 1. Remove the screw securing the mounting plate to the horizontal drive bays and set it aside. Then slide the mounting plate in the direction of the arrow, and lift it out.
Page 111
2. Turn the hard disk drive so the components face up and the connectors face left. Then place the mounting plate on the hard disk drive and align the four holes in the plate with the four holes in the drive, as shown below. The bracket on the mounting plate should be on the opposite side of the connector end of the drive.
Page 112
4. Hold the drive so the mounting plate faces the horizontal drive bays (with the bracket over the top) and the connectors face the back of the computer, as shown below. The two tabs at the bottom of the mounting plate should be just above the two slots in the computer case.
Page 113
5. Lower the tabs into the corresponding slots in the computer case. Slide the drive in the direction of the arrow, until the hole in the bracket is aligned with the hole on top of the horizontal drive bays. bracket 6.
Connecting the Cables To connect the hard disk drive to the computer, you need to connect two cables: the hard disk drive ribbon cable and a power supply cable. Follow the steps below: 1. If you are installing your computer’s first hard disk drive, you need to connect the hard disk drive ribbon cable to the system board now.
Page 115
4. Make sure the holes in the cable connector fit over all the pins in the hard disk drive connector; then push in the connector. 5-22 Installing and Removing Drives...
Page 116
5. Locate one of the power supply cables that lead from the power supply (behind the horizontal drive bays). The power supply cables may be secured in a plastic band on the side of the power supply. If so, unfasten the band to access the cables;...
Removing a Hard Disk From the Vertical Bay Follow these steps to remove a hard disk drive from the vertical drive bay: 1. Disconnect the hard disk drive ribbon cable and power supply cable from the back of the drive, as shown below. Grasp the cable connectors and pull them straight out from the connectors on the hard disk drive so you do not bend the pins;...
Page 118
3. Remove the four screws securing the mounting plate to the hard disk drive. You can store the mounting plate and its screw or replace it in the computer and secure it with the screw. 4. Wrap the hard disk drive in its original packing materials and store it along with the four screws.
Installing a Drive in a Horizontal Bay This section describes how to install a drive in a horizontal bay. Although the illustrations show a diskette or hard disk drive in the lower bay, you can use these instructions to install a drive in the upper bay.
Attaching Mounting Frames to a Hard Disk To attach mounting frames to a hard disk drive, follow these steps: 1. Locate the two mounting frames and four screws that came with the drive. 2. As shown below, place a mounting frame on top of one side of the drive and align it so that the holes in the drive are approximately in the middle of the oval holes in the frame.
Page 121
lnstalling the Drive Follow these steps to install the drive in a horizontal drive bay: 1. Locate the two metal guiderails and six screws that came with the computer. 2. Using the appropriate screw holes, attach one guiderail to each side of the drive (or each mounting frame, if attached), as shown below.
Page 122
3. If you are installing a drive in the lower bay, remove the two retaining screws securing the metal drive bay cover to the front of the computer and remove the cover. Store it in a safe place and save the screws to use later in these steps. 4.
Page 123
5. To insert a diskette drive, align the guiderails on each side of the drive with the notches on each side of the drive bay and slide the drive into the bay as far as it will go, as shown below.
Page 124
Store the faceplate and screws in a safe place; you may want to install it again later. Then go to “Connecting the Cables” on page 5-22. 7. To insert a hard disk drive, align the guiderails on each side of the drive with the notches on each side of the drive bay and slide the drive all the way into the bay, as shown below.
Connecting the Cables To connect the drive to the computer, you need to connect two cables: a drive ribbon cable and a power supply cable. The steps below describe how to connect these cables to the drive. If you are installing a diskette drive, follow step 1 and then skip to step 3.
Page 126
Make sure the cable connector fits properly onto the drive connector and push it into place. Be careful to align the connector correctly; otherwise, you could severely damage your drive when you push it in. Go to step 3. 2. Locate the hard disk drive ribbon cable. If you are installing a second hard disk drive, one end of the cable is connected to the system board and the other end is connected to the first hard disk drive in the vertical drive bay;...
Page 127
When the hard disk drive ribbon cable is positioned correctly, the red wire on the cable is aligned with pin 1 on the drive connector. To identify pin 1, look for a 1 or 2 at the connector on the drive’s circuit board. Make sure the holes in the cable connector fit over all the pins in the hard disk drive connector;...
4. Position the power supply cable connector so that its notched corners line up with the notched corners of the drive’s power supply connector, as shown below. Make sure the holes fit over all the pins and then push in the connector. diskette drive hard disk drive Caution...
Removing a Drive From a Horizontal Bay This section describes how to remove a drive from a horizontal drive bay. Although the illustrations show a diskette or hard disk drive in the lower bay, you can use these same instructions to remove a diskette drive from the upper bay.
hard disk drive 2. Remove the two retaining screws securing the drive to the drive bay. Then grasp the front of the drive and pull it completely out of the bay. Installing and Removing Drives 5-27...
Page 131
3. If you are leaving the drive bay empty, replace the metal drive bay cover and two retaining screws, as shown below. 4. If you are replacing the drive you removed with another drive, remove the guiderails and screws from the drive and use them to install the other drive as described in “Installing a Drive in a Horizontal Bay”...
Page 132
If you removed one hard disk drive and are leaving another one in the computer, you need to set the jumpers on the remaining drive to indicate that you now have only one hard disk drive. See the documentation that came with the drive for the correct jumper settings.
Connecting the Hard Disk Drive Ribbon Cable to the System Board Follow these steps to connect the hard disk drive ribbon cable to the system board: 1. Locate the hard disk drive connector on the system board. As shown below, it is next to the diskette drive connector, between the option card connector board and the power supply.
Page 134
2. Locate the hard disk drive ribbon cable that came with the computer. It is a flat cable with three connectors: one on each end and one in the middle, as shown below. vertical drive connector 3. Select the connector on the end of the longest part of the cable (the main system board connector).
Page 135
N o t e You may find it easier to plug in the cable connector if you first remove the option card connector board and diskette drive ribbon cable. To remove the option card connector board, see page 4-20. To disconnect the diskette drive ribbon cable, grasp the cable connector and pull it straight out from the system board connector so you do not bend the pins;...
3. You may need to format the drive before you can use it. (All Epson drives are sold already formatted.) Check the manual that came with the drive to see if it is already formatted. If not, follow the manufacturer’s instructions to format the drive.
Then contact the Epson Connection at (800) 922-8911 for assistance. Identifying Your System When you request technical assistance, be ready to provide...
If this happens, see “The Computer Won’t Start” in this chapter. If none of the suggestions listed there solves the problem, contact the Epson Connection as soon as possible. Report any error messages when you request technical assistance. Troubleshooting...
Page 139
DISPLAY TYPE HAS CHANGED SINCE LAST BOOT Action The CMOS battery is bad. Contact the Epson Connection. Your CMOS RAM has possibly been corrupted. Run the SETUP program and check your settings (see Chapter 2). If your settings are correct, save them as you exit the SETUP program.
Page 140
The system was unable to detect the hard disk drive controller. See “Hard Disk Problems.” Your hard disk drive may be damaged. Contact the Epson Connection. Your keyboard may not be connected correctly. See “Keyboard Problems.” Your SlMMs may not be installed correctly. See ‘Memory Module Problems.”...
See Chapters 4 and 5 for instructions. Action Your drive is probably damaged. Contact the Epson Connection. Your system cannot find or initialize your hard disk drive controller. See “Hard Disk Problems.” the back panel and an...
Check the power requirements in Appendix A. 4. If the electrical outlet is working and all the connections are secure but your computer still won’t start, call the Epson Connection for assistance. The Computer Does Not Respond If your computer locks up and does not respond when you type on the keyboard, follow these steps: 1.
5. The problem could be caused by your keyboard. See “Keyboard Problems” later in this chapter. 6. If you want to stop whatever the computer is doing and return to the MS-DOS command key and press information on stopping a command or program. 7.
(about 78° F or 25° C). 4. If you removed the computer’s cover, replace it now. (See Chapter 4 for instructions.) Then turn on the computer. If the power supply shuts off again, contact the Epson Connection for assistance. Password Problems If you have any trouble using your password, try the following: 1.
Accessing Your System If you have forgotten your current password, follow these steps: Turn off the computer. Disable the password function by setting DIP switch 4 to Off. (See Chapter 4 for instructions.) Turn on the computer. Turn the computer off again. Follow the instructions under “Changing the DIP Switch Settings”...
If you want to change the initial num lock setting, see “Setting the NumLock Boot Status” in Chapter 2. 4. If you still have trouble with the keyboard, contact the Epson Connection for assistance. Monitor Problems For monitor problems, check the following: 1.
Page 147
If the screen is still blank, make sure the monitor is connected to the computer securely. See “Connecting a Monitor” in Chapter 1 for instructions. 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 outlet.
Diskette Problems If you see an error message or have trouble accessing data on a diskette, try the following steps: 1. You may have inserted the diskette upside-down or it may not be inserted all the way. Remove the diskette and reinsert it.
Page 149
6. Did you receive one of the following MS-DOS error messages? Disk Drive Error: Abort, Ignore, Retry? Disk error reading drive d: Disk error writing drive If you see one of these messages, make sure the diskette is properly inserted in the drive. If the problem persists, try removing the diskette and reinserting it.
(See Chapter 2 for instructions.) 4. If the diskette drive is making loud or unusual noises, do not attempt any further examination of it. Contact the Epson Connection for assistance. Hard Disk Problems...
Installing the Drive If you have problems with a newly-installed drive, check the following: 1. If someone else installed the drive, consult that person about the problem. 2. If you installed the hard disk in your computer, did you carefully follow all the instructions in Chapter 5? Review the instructions, check all the cable connections, and check the jumper settings on your drive.
Preparing the Drive Before you can store data on a new hard disk (which has already been physically formatted), you must do the following to prepare it for use: 1. Run the SETUP program to define your hard disk as part of the computer’s configuration.
If you cannot access data on your hard disk or you are receiving read/write errors, the disk may have a physical problem. Contact the Epson Connection for assistance. Software Problems If you have trouble with an application program, try the following: 1.
3. If you entered an MS-DOS command that you want to stop, there are special key combinations you can use to cancel the command. These methods may also work in your application programs: 4. An application program can occasionally lock the computer, making it unresponsive to keyboard commands.
Page 155
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 serial or parallel port, the computer must know which port is the primary port and which is the secondary port.
Option Card Problems If you install an option card and it does not function properly, check the following: 1. Is the option card installed correctly? Make sure it is well-seated in its slot. Check the installation procedure described in Chapter 4 and also see the instructions that came with the card.
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 still have trouble with your SIMMs, write down any error messages that appear and contact the Epson Connection for assistance. 6-21 Troubleshooting...
See “Changing the Jumper and DIP Switch Settings” in Chapter 4 for instructions. 3. If you still have trouble with your external cache, write down any error messages that appear and contact the Epson Connection for assistance. Battery Problems The battery in your computer is a 3.6 volt, lithium battery.
Appendix A Specifications CPU and Memory 32-bit CPU System speed Memory video RAM Shadow RAM Cache Math coprocessor Clock/ calendar 4SX/25C: Intel i486SX, 25 MHz microprocessor in open PGA-type CPU socket; can be upgraded with optional 487SX/25 math coprocessor or Intel ODP486-25 OverDrive processor 4DX/33C: Intel i486DX, 33 MHz microprocessor in PGA-type CPU socket;...
Controllers Video Diskette Hard disk Interfaces Monitor Parallel Serial Keyboard Mouse Option slots Speaker VGA feature connector A - 2 Specifications ® Cirrus Logic VGA controller on main system board; with standard 512KB video memory, supports resolutions up to 800 x 600; with 1 MB extended memory, provides resolutions up to 1280 x 1024 Controller on main system board supports up to two diskette drives or one diskette drive and one...
Mass Storage Diskette drives Hard disk drives Other devices Input Devices Keyboard Physical Characteristics Width Depth Height Weight Three half-height drives maximum configurable using the following: 5.25-inch, 1.2MB (high-density) capacity 3.5-inch. 1.44MB (high-density) capacity 5.25-inch. 360KB (double-density) capacity 3.5-inch, 720KB (double-density) capacity Dual diskette drive: 3.5-inch, 1.44MB and 5.25-inch, 1.2MB 3½-inch form factor hard disk drive(s), up to half-height...
Power Supply Option slot power limits Maximum Current For each slot For all four slots Environmental Requirements Condition Operating range Non-operating 41° t0 90° F Temperature Humidity (non- condensing) Altitude Maximum wet bulb Acoustical noise A-4 Specifications +5 Volts +12 volts 7 Amps 1.5 Amps 16 Amps...
GIossary Access speed The time it takes for a device, such as memory or a disk drive, to return data. For example, your computer’s SIMMs return data requested by the microprocessor at an access speed of 70ns. Address The location where information is stored in a computer’s memory.
Base memory See Conventional memory. Batch file A file that executes commands automatically. Batch files are text files with the filename extension .BAT. When you type the filename, the operating system sequentially executes the commands in that file. BIOS Basic Input/Output System. Routines in ROM (Read Only Memory) that handle the transfer of information among various hardware components, and between the hardware and your operating system.
C G A Color Graphics Adapter. A display adapter card that can generate up to 25 lines of text with 80 characters on each line, two-color graphics at 640 x 200 resolution, or four-color graphics at 320 x 200 resolution. Chip A piece of silicon containing miniature transistors and resistors wrapped in insulating material.
Conventional memory The memory in the computer below 1MB that is available to MS-DOS and application programs-usually 640KB. Also called base memory or main memory. Coprocessor See Math coprocessor. Copy-protected program A program containing a software “lock” that prevents it from being copied.
Page 169
Device A piece of equipment that is part of a computer system, such as a disk drive, a monitor, or a printer. Device driver A file containing instructions that allow your computer to recognize and communicate with a device. The device may be a printer, monitor, or other type of device.
Double-density A type of diskette format that allows you to store twice as much data as the standard-density format. A 3.5-inch, double-density diskette can store 720KB of data. A 5.25-inch, double-density diskette can store 360KB of data. Enhanced Graphics Adapter. A display adapter card that allows you to display high-resolution graphics on an EGA monitor.
Page 171
High-density A type of diskette format that allows you to store more data than on single- or double-density diskettes. A 5.25-inch, high-density diskette can store 1.2MB of data. A 3.5-inch, high-density diskette can store 1.44MB of data. Integrated Drive Electronics. A type of hard disk drive interface in which the controller is on the drive instead of on a controller card.
Page 172
EMS 4.0 Version 4.0 of the Lotus/Intel/Microsoft Expanded Memory Specification-your computer’s capability to support programs that use expanded memory. See also Expanded memory. Main system board The circuit board inside your computer containing the circuitry and components your computer needs to operate. Math coprocessor A device that enables the computer to process mathematical calculations faster by using floating point numbers instead of...
Memory module A small circuit board, commonly called a SIMM (single inline memory module), that contains surface-mounted memory chips. You can add memory modules to the main system board to expand your computer’s memory. M G A Multi-mode Graphics Adapter. A display adapter card that can display monochrome text and color graphics.
Numeric keypad The number and cursor control keys grouped together on the right side of the keyboard. The operation of the dual-use keys on the numeric keypad is controlled by the Operating speed The speed at which the computer’s processor can execute commands, usually expressed in megahertz (MHz).
Parallel An interface that transmits data simultaneously over separate wires in a cable. See also Interface and Serial. Parameter A qualifier added to a command that tells your operating system what data to process, where it should locate or store a file, or how it should operate.
Page 176
Prompt A message displayed to request information or tell you what action to perform next. See also Command prompt. R A M Random Access Memory. The area of the computer’s memory used to run programs and store data while you work. All data in RAM is erased when you turn off or reset the computer.
R O M Read Only Memory. Memory that can only be read and cannot be modified. ROM retains its contents even when you turn off the computer by using power from a backup battery. Root directory The main directory in a hierarchical disk directory structure. All other directories are subdirectories of the root directory.
Page 178
System diskette A diskette that contains the operating system and can be used to boot the computer. Tape drive The physical device that allows you to insert large-capacity magnetic tape cartridges for compact data storage and backup. UNIX An operating system that supports multitasking and is especially suited to multi-user environments.
Page 179
AC inlet, l-l1, 6-5 AC plug, A-5 Adapter cards, see Video cards Addresses, 2-13, A-6 Altitude, A-4 Application programs, Intro-2, l-14,2-19,4-17,6-17-18 Authorized Epson Servicer, Intro-3, Intro-6, 4-2 AutoCAD, 4--l7 Backing up data, 3-11, 3-13, 6-14 Battery, CMOS, 4-27-30, 6-22 Bi-LPTl, 2-14 Bi-LPT2, 2-14...
Page 180
Controller, diskette drive, A-2 hard disk drive, A-2 VGA, Intro-2, A-2 Conventions, manual, Intro-5 Coprocessor, math, Intro-l, Intro-3,4-21-24 Copying diskettes or files, 3-11, 3-13 Copy-protected program, 3-19,6-17 Cover, computer, removing, 4-4-5 computer, replacing, 4-31-32 drive bay, metal, 5-19,5-28 CPU (central processing unit), see Processor CTRL ALT +, 3-18-19 CTRL ALT -, 3-18-19...