EPSON ACTION PC 2000 USER’S GUIDE
EPSON ® User’s Guide Printed on recycled paper with 10% post-consumer content @
IMPORTANT NOTICE 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 ofmerchantability and fitness for a particular purpose or for any indirect, special, or consequential damages. Some states do not allow the exclusion of incidental or consequential damages, so this exclusion may not apply to you. COPY RlGHT NOTlCE All rights reserved.
Important Safety Instructions Read all of these instructions and save them for later reference. Follow all warnings and instructions marked on the computer. . Unplug the computer before cleaning. Clean with a damp cloth only. Do not spill liquid on the computer. . Do not place the computer on an unstable surface or near a radiator or heat register. . Do not block or cover the openings in the computer’s cabinet. Do not insert objects through the slots. .
Importantes instructions de s&wit6 Lire attentivement les instructions suivantes et les conserver pour les consulter en cas de besoin. Observer soigneusement tous les avertissements et directives marques sur l’ordinateur. . Debrancher l’ordinateur avant de le nettoyer. N’utiliser qu’un chiffon humide. Veiller a ne pas renverser de liquides sur l’appareil. . Ne pas placer l’ordinateur sur une surface instable ni pres dune source de chaleur. . Ne pas bloquer ni couvrir les orifices d’aeration de l’appareil.
Introduction Your new EPSON ® computer provides the following features: Cyrix® 486SLC2-50 microprocessor Energy Star compliant, low-power standby mode for the hard disk drive and video display 4MB of internal memory, expandable to 16MB System and video BIOS shadow RAM 512KB of on-board video memory, expandable to 1MB Built-in local bus SVGA video port Two built-in serial ports and one built-in bi-directional parallel port One built-in PS/2™ compatible keyboard port and one built-in PS/2 compatible mouse por
0 On-board support for up to two IDE hard disk drives and two diskette drives (or one diskette drive and one tape drive) 0 Real-time clock and calendar on main system board with built-in rechargeable battery backup. The 486SLC microprocessor in this computer is i486SX instruction set compatible. It features a 32-bit internal/ 16-bit external data path. The shadow RAM feature speeds up processing by moving the system and video BIOS into the RAM area of memory.
Energy Savings In standard configurations, this computer complies with the United States Environmental Protection Agency’s Energy Star Program, which promotes the manufacture of energy-efficient printers, computers, and monitors. Your computer’s “Green PC” feature places the hard disk drive in a low-power standby mode when the mouse or keyboard has been inactive for a specified period of time.
Drives Your system supports up to four mass storage devices, including hard disk drives, diskette drives, a tape drive, a CD-ROM drive, or an optical drive. As your storage needs expand, you can install additional drives. Math Coprocessor You may want to install an optional math coprocessor, which allows your computer to perform mathematical calculations and process graphics more quickly. How to Use This Manual This manual contains the information you need to get the best results from your computer.
Appendix A lists the specifications of your computer. At the end of this manual you’ll find a Glossary, an Index, and a list of EPSON’s U.S. and international marketing locations. Where to Get Help If you purchased your computer in the United States or Canada, EPSON provides customer support and service through a network of Authorized EPSON Customer Care Centers. EPSON also provides support services through the EPSON Connection. In the United States, dial (800) 922-8911. In Canada, dial (800) GO-EPSON.
If you purchased your computer outside the United States or Canada, contact your EPSON dealer or the marketing location nearest you for customer support and service. International marketing locations are listed at the end of this manual. If you need help with any software application program you are using, see the documentation that came with that program for technical support information.
Contents Introduction VGA Drivers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Energy Savings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Optional Equipment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Memory.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Video Memory . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Drives . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Math Coprocessor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Setting Chip Set Feature Control Options .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-16 Using the Green PC Features . . . . . . . . . 1-17 Exiting SETUP . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-19 Post-SETUP Procedures . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-19 Chapter 2 Using Your Computer Working Comfortably . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2-1 .. Inserting and Removing Diskettes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-2 Stopping a Command or Program . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
. . . Reconnecting the Cables to the Diskette Drive . Removing a Hard Disk Drive From the Mounting Bracket . . . . . . . . . Installing a Drive in an External Drive Bay . . . . . . . . . Attaching Mounting Frames to the Drive . . . . . . . Installing the Drive . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Connecting the Drive and Power Cables . . . . . . . Removing a Drive from an External Bay . . . . . . . . . . Post-installation Procedures . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
. Tested Operating Environments . Video Memory and Supported Resolutions . . . Options Available from EPSON . . . . . Hard Disk Drive Types . . . . Drive Option Information . DMA Assignments . . . . . . . Hardware Interrupts . . . . . . System Memory Map . . . . . . . . . System I/ O Address Map . . . Connector Pin Assignments . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Index EPSON U.S. and International Marketing Locations viii . A-6 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Chapter 1 Setting Up Your System This chapter briefly describes how to set up your computer. It includes the following information: 0 Unpacking your computer 0 Setting the voltage selector switch q Connecting system components 0 Turning the computer on and off 0 Running the SETUP program q Post-SETUP procedures.
If you purchased any optional equipment that goes inside the computer-such as option cards, memory modules, or drives-you should install these devices before you connect your computer. See Chapters 3 and 4 for instructions. Setting the Voltage Selector Switch Your system is powered by a 200 watt power supply. The power supply voltage is controlled by a voltage selector switch on the computer’s back panel. You can set this switch to 110 VAC or 220 VAC.
To change the voltage selector switch setting, slide the switch to the right to select 220 VAC, or to the left to select 110 VAC, as shown below. Connecting System Components Use the following illustration to locate the ports on the back of your system as you connect the keyboard, monitor, printer, and other devices.
monitorcable monitor power inlet voltage p o w e r i n l e t ‘Witch A C o u t l e t K/B MOUE COM2 VGA Your system also includes two removable panels above the mouse and keyboard ports providing access to the game port on the main system board and to an optional port. Connecting a Keyboard and Mouse To connect a keyboard, hold the cable connector so the arrow on the connector faces up. Insert it into the port marked K/B.
You must install a mouse driver if your system has not been preconfigured. See your mouse manual for instructions. (If you are using Microsoft® WindowsTM the installation program automatically loads a mouse driver for Windows applications.) Connecting a Monitor If you have a VGA or SVGA monitor (or a multifrequency monitor), follow these steps to connect it to the computer’s built-in VGA port: 1.
Connecting a Printer or Other Device Your computer has one bi-directional parallel and two serial ports. To connect a printer or other peripheral device, follow the appropriate instructions below. Using the parallel port Follow these steps to connect a parallel printer to your computer: 1. Plug the connector end of the printer cable into the computer’s PARALLEL port. If the connector has retaining screws, tighten them. 2. Connect the other end of the cable to the printer.
Connecting the Power Cord Follow these steps to connect the power cord: 1. Plug the power cord into the power inlet on the back panel of the computer. WARNING To avoid an electric shock, be sure to plug the cord into the computer before plugging it into the wall outlet. 2. Plug the other end of the power cord into an appropriate grounded electrical outlet. After you connect the components of your system, you are ready to turn on the power.
4. To turn on the computer, press the power button located on the right side of the front panel, as shown below. speed light power light hard disk access light I diskette drive hard disk or diskette drive bay reset button power button The power indicator lights up. After a few seconds, the computer displays a count of its system memory, and then performs its power-on diagnostics. This is a series of checks the computer runs each time you turn it on to make sure everything is working correctly.
If your system is configured to automatically start Microsoft Windows or a word processing program, or has a different operating system, you will see the first menu or screen of that program displayed at this point. If your system is not configured to start like this, you will see the MS-DOS operating prompt, such as C:\> or A:\>, each time you turn on the computer. Now follow the instructions below to configure your system using the SETUP program.
SETUP lets you verify or change the following: 0 Current date and time 0 Type of diskette drive(s) and hard disk drive(s) 0 System memory 0 Video display type 0 Keyboard options 0 Processor speed 0 Internal cache function 0 Shadow options 0 Processor chip features 0 Green PC features. SETUP is stored in the computer’s ROM BIOS, so you can run it any time. The configuration information is stored in an area of memory called CMOS RAM.
If the system detects an error in its configuration when you turn it on, you will see the following message: Press the F1 key to continue, F2 to run the setup utility If you see this message, press F2 to run SETUP to correct your configuration. The table below lists the keys you can use to perform SETUP operations.
Displaying System Information When you press F2 from either of the SETUP screens, you will see a list of the following: 0 Processor type 0 Coprocessor type (if one is installed) 0 Reserved memory 0 BIOS version number 0 Addresses for video mode, serial ports, and printer ports. Press any key to return to the SETUP screen. 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.
Setting the Hard Disk Drive(s) Your system comes with a hard disk auto-sensing feature that automatically detects the type of hard disk drive(s) installed in your computer. (See Appendix A for a list of hard disk drive types and their parameters.) The SETUP program allows you to view or change the parameters for your hard disk drive. If you are using an older drive or a preformatted drive, it may not support the auto-sensing feature.
Defining your own drive type If the parameters for your hard disk do not match the parameters detected by the auto-sensing feature, or if you want to use your drive with parameters other than the defaults, follow these steps to define your own type: 1. Move the cursor to Hard Disk 1 or 2 and press + or -until you see User Def 1 or User Def 2. 2. Press + to move the cursor to the Cy1 field. 3. Type the appropriate cylinder value for your hard disk.
If you installed an optional video card, follow the guidelines below to select the correct adapter type.
Setting the Processor Speed The CPU Speed option sets the processor speed to fast or slow. At fast speed, your processor operates at its highest speed. At the slow speed setting, the processor operates at 8 MHz to provide compatibility with older application programs. Leave it set to fast speed unless you know your application program requires the slow setting. Cyrix Cache Option The 486SLC2-50 microprocessor includes a 1KB internal cache Leave this option set to Enabled.
You can also shadow 32KB or 64KB of memory that starts at the indicated addresses to RAM. If you enable these options, you cannot use the Relocate Memory feature between 640KB and 1024KB. Additional options Two additional chip set feature options allow you to slow down your system in case you need compatibility with slower option cards or diskette drives.
The Inactivity Timer1 option sets the time-out period for video signals to your monitor. When the mouse or keyboard has been inactive for the time period you select here, your computer stops sending video signals to your monitor. If your monitor is also Energy Star compliant, it goes into a low-power standby mode because it isn’t receiving video signals from your computer. Screens on monitors that aren’t Energy Star compliant will go blank when your system is in standby mode.
Exiting SETUP When you leave SETUP, you can save your settings and reboot your system, or exit SETUP without saving your settings. You can also return all values to the factory defaults. To leave SETUP, press ESC from any SETUP screen.
You may also want to install the optional extended video drivers and utilities. (If your computer was configured for you, these drivers are already installed.) For more information on installing video drivers and utilities, see the README.TXT files included on your Drivers diskettes.
Chapter 2 Using Your Computer This chapter briefly describes the following operations: 0 Working comfortably 0 Inserting and removing diskettes 0 Stopping a command or program 0 Resetting the computer 0 Changing the processor speed. Working Comfortably This section provides some tips for creating a comfortable work environment. Use good posture. Keep your elbows, hips, and knees bent at approximately 90 degree angles and keep your wrists as close to horizontal as possible.
Be gentle with your keyboard. Too much force creates tension in your hands. Also, make sure your work surface has enough room for you to move the mouse or other pointing device freely. Use good lighting that isn’t too bright. Try to keep bright light sources out of your field of vision when you are looking at the screen. Place your monitor directly in front of you and sit about an arm’s length away from it. The top of the screen should be slightly below your eye level so you look down at the screen.
Note The 3.5-inch drive installed in your computer is drive A. If you install another diskette drive, it is drive B. You can change the drive assignments through SETUP. 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. Slide the diskette into the drive and then turn down the latch to secure it. When you want to remove the diskette, make sure the drive light is off; then press the release button or turn the latch.
If these methods do not work, you may need to reset the computer as described below. Do not turn off the computer to exit a program or stop a command unless you have to, because the computer erases any data you did not save. Resetting the Computer Occasionally, you may want to clear the computer’s memory without turning it off. You can do this by resetting the computer.
If resetting the computer does not correct the problem, you probably need to turn it off and on again. Remove any diskette(s) from the diskette drive(s). Turn off the computer and wait 20 seconds. If you do not have a hard disk, insert the system diskette in drive A. Then turn on the computer. Changing the Processor Speed Your computer’s processor can operate at two speeds: fast or slow (8 MHz). The slow speed is available to provide compatibility with older application programs.
0 To select fast speed, hold down the Ctrl and Alt keys and press + on the numeric keypad. Note You can use the commands listed above while you are running a program. However, if the program uses one of these commands for another function, you cannot use it to change the processor speed. You can, however, change the processor speed through SETUP. The speed setting remains in effect until you reset your computer or turn it off.
Chapter 3 Installing and Removing Options You can enhance the performance of your computer by adding optional equipment such as memory modules, option cards, video memory, or a math coprocessor. This chapter first describes how to remove your computer’s cover to install options and how to replace the cover when you are finished.
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 4). Follow these steps to remove the cover: 3-2 1. Turn off the computer and then any peripheral devices (including the monitor and printer). 2. Disconnect the computer’s power cable from the electrical outlet and from the back panel. Also disconnect any cables that are connected to the computer, including the keyboard cable.
6. Grasping the sides of the cover, lift it up at an angle and pull it off, as shown below: 7. Set the cover aside. 8. Ground yourself to the computer by touching the metal surface of the back panel. WARNING Be sure to ground yourself by touching the back panel of the computer every time you remove the cover. If you are not properly grounded, you could generate an electric shock that could damage a component when you touch it.
Replacing the Cover When you are ready to replace the computer’s cover, follow these steps: 3-4 1. Make sure all the internal components are installed properly. 2. Check all cable connections, especially those that might have been loosened during your work. 3. Make sure all cables are out of the way so they do not catch on the cover. 4. Insert the lip at the front of the cover between the front bezel and the chassis of the computer and guide it straight down. (See the illustration on page 3-3.) 5.
Locating the Internal Components As you follow the instructions in this chapter, refer to the following illustration to locate the major components inside your computer. option card connector board microprocessor I J6-J9 J10-J12 ,J13, J14.
Changing the Jumper Settings The jumpers on the main system board control certain functions and are preset at the factory to default positions; however, you can use the information in the following tables to change their settings, if necessary.
Jumper settings (continued) Jumper number Jumper setting Function J16 1-2 * 2-3 Enables the IDE hard disk drive controller Disablesthe IDE hard disk drive controller * Factory setting ** MS-DOS automaticaIly reassigns parallel and serial ports. Checkyour MS-DOS manual for more information. Built-in VGA jumper settings Built-in VGA J1 J2 Enable 1-2* 1-2* Disable Off Off * Factory setting Note To use an external display adapter in an expansion slot, you must disable the built-in VGA adapter.
3. A jumper’s setting is determined by where the jumper is placed on the pins. Use the following table to identify the pin settings for 2-pin, 3-pin, and 4-pin jumpers. To locate pin 1, look at the system board under the jumper; a triangle is traced on the board at pin 1. Jumper type Position 2-pin 3-pin 2-3 4-pin 2-3 To move a jumper from one position to the other, use needle-nose pliers or tweezers to pull it off its pins and gently move it to the desired position.
Installing Memory Modules Your computer comes with 4MB of memory on memory modules-also called SIMMs (single in line memory modules). By installing additional SIMMs, you can increase the amount of memory in your computer up to 16MB. There are four SIMM sockets on the main system board, and each can contain one SIMM. You can use 1MB and 4MB SIMMs. The following table shows the possible SIMM configurations; do not install memory in any other configuration.
Inserting SiMMs Follow these steps to install SIMMs: 3-10 1. Refer to the illustration on page 3-5 to locate the SIMM sockets. 2. Remove any option cards that may be blocking your access to the SIMM sockets. (See page 3-16 for instructions.) 3. Turn the computer around so the back panel is facing you. 4. Position the first SIMM at an angle over the first empty socket in the bank you are filling, as shown below. The components on the SIMM should face the inside of the computer.
5. Push the SIMM into the socket until it is seated firmly in the slot. Then tilt it upright, as shown above, 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; pull it all the way out and try again. 6. Repeat steps 4 and 5 for each additional SIMM. 7. Replace any option cards you removed. (See page 3-13 for instructions.
3-12 2. Use your fingers or a small screwdriver to carefully pull away the tabs that secure the SIMM at each end, as shown below. As you pull away the tabs, the SIMM falls to the side. Remove it from the socket. 3. If necessary, follow the same procedure to remove other SIMMs. 4. Replace any option cards you removed, as described below.
Installing an Option Card This section explains how to install option cards in your computer. Your computer has five 16-bit, ISA slots; three full length and two half-length. As you install option cards, keep these guidelines in mind: Check the components on your card and the system board before deciding which slot to use. Make sure that no components are touching or obstructing other cards or cables.
Installing a Card in a Full-length Sot Follow these steps to install an option card in one of the full-length slots: 3-14 1. Remove the retaining screw securing the option slot cover to the computer, as shown below. (Keep the screw to secure the option card to the computer.) 2. Slide out the slot cover and set it aside. (Store it in a safe place in case you remove the option card later.) 3. Hold the card along the top corners and guide it into the slot, as shown below.
Once the connectors reach the slot, push the card in firmly (but carefully) to insert it fully. You should feel it fit into place. If the card does not go in smoothly, do not force it; pull it all the way out and try again. 4. Secure the end of the card to the computer with the retaining screw. Installing a Card in a Half-length Sot Follow these instructions to install a card in one of the half-length slots: 1. Remove the retaining screw securing the slot cover bracket.
3. Hold the card along the top corners with the components facing down and guide it into the slot. 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. If it does not go in smoothly, do not force it; pull the card all the way out and try again. 4. Replace the slot cover bracket by inserting it into the small metal holder below the option slots. 5. Secure the slot cover bracket to the computer with the retaining screw.
Adding Video Memory Your computer comes with 512KB of video memory. You can increase your video memory to 1MB by installing four video DRAM DIP (Dual Inline Package) chips. The chips must be 20-pin, 256KB, 70ns. Additional video memory is useful for running graphics-intensive applications or for supporting resolutions up to 1280 x 1024 in 16 colors (interlaced) on your monitor. See Appendix A for a table identifying supported colors and resolutions for each amount of video memory.
4. Position one of the memory chips over the socket as shown below, aligning the pins on the chip with the holes in the socket. Make sure the small notch on the end of the chip aligns with the corresponding notch in the socket. notch 3-18 5. Gently press the chip halfway into the socket (to make sure it is correctly aligned). If the chip does not go in smoothly, remove it and try again. 6. When the chip is properly positioned, push down firmly on both ends to make sure it is well-seated. 7.
Installing the Math Coprocessor You can enhance your system’s performance for some applications by installing a Cyrix 83S87-25 math coprocessor. Note that your coprocessor socket may not look exactly like the one in the illustration. If you’re not sure how to install a math coprocessor, contact the EPSON Connection or ask for assistance. To install the math coprocessor, follow the instructions in the manual that came with it, or follow these steps: 1. Locate the socket for the math coprocessor.
4. Position the coprocessor over the socket as shown below. Align the notched corner of the coprocessor (marked with a dot) over the bevelled corner in the socket. Then gently push it straight into the socket, pressing evenly on all sides. bevelled corner 5. \ Replace any option cards you removed. See page 3-13. Caution Removing a coprocessor chip requires a special tool. To remove a chip, take your computer to an Authorized EPSON Servicer.
Chapter 4 Installing and Removing Drives This chapter describes how to install and remove optional drives in your computer. You can use these instructions to install a variety of devices, including hard disk drives, a diskette drive, a tape drive, a CD-ROM drive, or an optical drive. Although your drive may look different from the ones illustrated here, you should be able to install it the same way. Your computer can hold up to four mass storage devices.
0 Post-installation procedures Some of the steps in this chapter may not apply for the drive you are installing. See the documentation that came with your drive for more information. Removing the Diskette Drive and Mounting Bracket Your computer has a 3.5-inch diskette drive installed in a mounting bracket. (You may also have a hard disk drive installed in the bracket.
2. Remove the screws securing the bracket to the drive bay and brace. drive bay I 3. brace Slide the bracket and drive(s) away from the front of the computer and lift them out. lnstalling a Hard Disk Drive Using the Mounting Bracket You can install a hard disk drive below the diskette drive in the mounting bracket, once you have removed the bracket and drive from the computer. In order to fit in this space, your hard disk drive must be 1 inch high by 3½ inches wide.
This section includes steps for the following procedures: 0 Removing the mounting frames from the hard disk drive (if necessary) 0 Installing the hard disk drive below the diskette drive in the mounting bracket 0 Replacing the mounting bracket and drives in the computer 0 Connecting the drive cables. If you have two hard disk drives, one must be configured as the master (which contains your operating system), and the other as the slave.
Removing the Mounting Fames If there are mounting frames attached to your hard disk drive, remove them before you install the drive. Follow these steps: 1. On your 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 and remove the guiderail and grounding plate. plastic guiderail metal mounting frames 2.
Note Before you install the hard disk drive, turn it over so you can see the circuit board, as shown below. Locate the side of the drive connector containing pin 1, indicated by a “1” or “2” printed on the board. You will need to know the location of pin 1 when you connect the hard drive cable. pin 1 Installing the Hard Disk Drive Below the Diskette Drive Follow these steps to install the hard disk drive in the bracket below the diskette drive: 1.
2. Align the holes in the drive with the oval-shaped holes in the bracket. 3. Secure the drive with two or four screws, depending on the location of the holes.
Replacing the bracket and drives in the computer Follow these steps to replace the bracket and drives in your computer: 4-8 1. Lower the bracket with the drives into the mounting area and slide it forward, inserting the front of the diskette drive through the drive slot in the front panel of the computer. 2. Make sure the holes in the bracket are aligned with the holes in the drive bay and brace. Then secure the bracket with the screws you removed previously.
Connecting the Drive Cables After you replace the bracket, you need to connect the cables for both the hard disk drive and the diskette drive. This section includes steps for the following procedures: 0 Connecting the drive ribbon cable to the system board 0 Connecting the cables to the hard disk drive 0 Reconnecting the cables to the diskette drive.
2. Locate the hard disk drive connector on the system board. 3. Position the system board connector end of the cable so that the red wire aligns with pin 1 of the connector on the system board. There is a “1” printed on the system board to identify pin 1. hard disk drive connector 4. Make sure the holes in the connector fit over the pins; then push in the cable connector.
Connecting the ribbon and power cables to the drive Follow the steps below to connect the hard disk drive ribbon cable and a power supply cable to the drive: 1. Locate the hard disk drive connector on the end of the hard disk drive ribbon cable. 2. Locate pin 1 on the drive connector. If you do not see it on the connector casing and you did not locate it before you replaced the drive bracket, you may have to remove the drive and turn it over to check the circuit board.
Caution If you do not correctly align the holes with the pins, you could severely damage your hard disk drive when you push in the cable connector. 5. Locate one of the power supply cables that lead from the power supply. (They have multi-colored wires and a plastic connector on the end.) 6. Position the power supply cable connector so that its notched corners line up with the notched corners of the power supply connector on the hard disk drive. ed rs 7.
Reconnecting the Cables to the Diskette Drive After you replace the drive bracket and connect the hard drive cables, you need to reconnect the diskette drive cables. red wire red wire Refer to the illustration above while you follow these steps: 1. Locate the connector on the diskette drive ribbon cable. 2. Identify pin 1 on the drive and align the connector so that the red wire is at pin 1. Push in the connector. 3. Locate the power supply cable with the small connector. 4.
Removing a Hard Disk Drive From the Mounting Bracket Follow these steps if you need to remove the hard disk drive from the bracket: 1. Disconnect the cables from the back of the hard disk drive and diskette drive in the bracket. Grasp the connectors and pull them straight out so you do not bend the pins; do not pull on the cables. 2. Remove the screws securing the bracket to the drive bay and brace. 3. Slide the bracket and drive away from the front of the computer and lift them out. P 4-14 4.
lnstalling a Drive in a n Edema I Drive Bay Your system comes with two externally accessible drive bays. You can use these bays to install any combination of the following: a second diskette drive, hard disk drive, CD-ROM drive, tape drive, or optical drive. If you are installing a diskette drive or a tape drive with a standard 5.25-inch diskette drive connector, you can connect it using the diskette drive cable that came with your system.
Attaching Mounting Fames to the Drive Follow these steps to attach mounting frames to a drive: 4-16 1. Locate the two mounting frames and four screws that came with the drive. 2. As shown below, place a mounting frame on one side of the drive and align it so that the oval holes in the frame are positioned over the holes in the drive. Then secure the mounting frame to the drive with the two screws. 3. Repeat step 2 to attach a mounting frame to the other side of the drive.
Installing the Drive Before you can install a drive in one of the external bays, you must first remove the mounting bracket with the diskette drive (and possibly a hard disk drive). See page 4-2 for instructions. Then follow these steps to install a drive in the upper or lower drive bay: 1. Remove the faceplate from the bay by pushing it out from the inside of the computer. Keep the faceplate in a safe place in case you remove a drive later (or you are installing a hard disk drive).
2. 3. 4-18 Slide the drive through the slot into the bay until it is flush with the front of the computer. Align the slots at the side of the drive bay with the mounting holes in the drive or mounting frames. Then secure both sides of the drive to the bay using the retaining screws.
Connecting the Drive and Power Cables To connect the drive to the computer, you need to connect both the drive ribbon cable and a power supply cable. If you are installing a hard disk drive, follow the instructions on pages 4-9 through 4-12. Then go to step 5. If you are installing a diskette or tape drive, follow the steps below. 1. If you are installing a diskette drive, locate the diskette drive ribbon cable. (The connector in the middle of the cable is already connected to the system board.) 2.
If you are installing a 3.5inch diskette drive with a header connector, see page 4-13 for instructions on connecting the cable. 3. Locate one of the power supply cables that lead from the power supply. (They have multi-colored wires and a plastic connector on the end.) 4. Align the notched corners of the power supply cable connector with the notched corners of the drive’s power supply connector (such as the one shown below). Make sure the holes fit over all the pins and then push in the connector.
Caution If you do not align the cable connectors correctly, you could severely damage your drive when you push them in. 5. If you installed a hard disk drive in one of the external bays, replace the faceplate. Insert one side of the plate, then gently press on the other side until it snaps into place. If you installed a diskette drive in the bay, it is drive B; the drive installed in the mounting bracket is A. You can change the drive assignments through SETUP.
3. Remove the two screws securing the drive on each side. 4. Reach behind the drive and gently push it to the front of the bay; then pull it out of the slot. 5. Once you have removed the drive, replace the faceplate by inserting one side of the plate, then gently pressing on the other side until it snaps into place. 6. Replace the diskette drive and mounting bracket and reconnect the cables. See page 4-8 for instructions.
Chapter 5 Troubleshooting If you have any problems as you set up and use your computer, refer to this chapter. You can correct most problems by adjusting a cable connection, repeating a software procedure, or resetting the computer. The troubleshooting suggestions in this chapter are organized in general categories, such as “The computer will not start.” Within each category, a more specific problem is described with possible solutions.
Use these guidelines to locate information about your system. 5-2 Serial number: Look on the label on the bottom of the computer to find the serial number. System BIOS version: Restart your system. You’ll see the system BIOS version number displayed on the screen when your system performs power-on diagnostics. System configuration: Start SETUP and select the System Summary option to see your system‘s configuration.
The Computer Will Not Start The power light is on, but the computer does not start. Place a bootable diskette in drive A and turn on the computer again. The computer does not start and the powerlight is not lit. Make sure the power cord is securely connected to both the AC inlet on the back panel and an electrical outlet. The power cord is securely connected, but the computer still does not start. Check the electrical outlet for power. Turn off your computer and unplug the power cord.
The Computer Does Not Respond The computer locks up. Wait a few moments; if your computer does not respond after a reasonable length of time, press Ctrl Alt Del. If that doesn’t work, press the RESET button. You may have installed memory using SIMMs that work at the wrong speed. You can try using the SETUP program to insert a wait state (see Chapter 1) or you can install the correct SIMMs (see Chapter 3). Your system may have overheated because its physical environment is too warm.
Nothing happens when you type on the keyboard. The Lockout Timer may be set in SETUP. This option inactivates the keyboard for a specified period of time after the system returns to an active mode from a low-power standby mode. This delay gives Energy Star compliant monitors the time they need to return to an active mode. Wait a few seconds and try again. See “The Computer Does Not Respond,” above The cursor keys on the numeric keypad do not work properly.
Monitor Problems There is no display on the screen. Check that the monitor’s power switch is on and that its power light is lit. Also, the computer may be in low-power standby mode. When you press a mouse button or a key on the keyboard, see if the monitor displays an image. The power light is on, but you still do not see anything on the screen. Press a mouse button or a key on the keyboard to see if the computer is in low-power standby mode. Also, check the brightness and contrast controls.
Turn off the monitor’s power, wait five seconds, and turn it back on. If the light still does not come on, check the electrical outlet for power. Turn off your monitor and unplug it from the outlet. Then plug a lamp into the wall outlet and turn it on. If the light turns on, your monitor may be faulty. Diskette Problems You see a diskette error message. Reinsert the diskette, making sure you insert it all the way. If the drive has a latch, turn it down to secure the diskette.
Something is wrong with the data in the files If you are using MS-DOS, use CHKDSK to repair the files. You may also be able to use special utilities or diagnostics to solve this problem. Diskette Drive Problems A newly installed diskette drive is not working properly. Make sure you have installed the drive correctly and check all the cable connections. You see a diskette drive error when you start your computer. Run the SETUP program and configure your system for the correct type of diskette drive.
You see a hard disk drive error when you start your system. Run SETUP and check that your system’s auto-sensing feature is detecting the correct drive type. If auto-sensing is enabled and SETUP displays information that does not match your drive, you may need to define your own drive type. See Chapter 1. Make sure the jumpers on the system board are set correctly. Jumpers J14 and J16 enable or disable the IDE hard disk drive controller. See Chapter 3 for jumper information.
You have been using your hard disk drive successfully for some time but notice a reduction in performance. The data on the disk may have become fragmented. Back up all your data and use a disk compaction utility to reorganize the files on your disk. If you cannot access data on your hard disk or you are seeing read/ write errors, the disk may have a physical problem. Contact your Authorized EPSON Servicer or the EPSON Connection.
Yourapplication haslocked the computer, making it unresponsive to keyboard commands Reset the computer and try again. If resetting the computer does not help, turn it off, wait 20 seconds, then turn it on again. Some software, like OS/2®, UNIX,® or NetWare,® needs a minimum of 8MB to 16MB of RAM to work correctly. Check your software documentation for the minimum memory requirements. If necessary, add memory modules using the instructions in Chapter 3.
Option Card Problems A newly installed option card is not working correctly. Make sure the option card is installed correctly and is well-seated in its slot. Run the SETUP program to update your computer’s configuration after you install the card. Also, perform setup procedures for any software you are using with the option card. See the documentation that came with the option card to set any necessary DIP switches or jumpers on the card.
Memory Module Problems The memory count displayed by the power-on diagnostics program is incorrect. You may have installed the SIMMs incorrectly. They may be the wrong type or speed, or they may not be inserted all the way. See Chapter 3 for information on installing SIMMs. Controller Problems You see a controller error for the drive controllers, the video controller, or the I/O port controllers when you start your system. The indicated controller on your system board may be faulty.
Internal Battery Problems The screen displaysan error message prompting you to run SETUP when you start your system, or your system displays as incorrect time and date. If your system has not been used for an extended period of time, your internal NiCad backup battery may be discharged. First, run SETUP to enter the correct time and date. (You may also need to re-enter your computer’s configuration information.) See Chapter 1 for instructions.
Appendix A Specifications CPU and Memory 32-bit CPU Cyrix 486SLC2-50 microprocessor Green PC energy saver Energy Star compliant, low-power standby mode for the hard disk drive and video signals sent by the computer to the monitor; select timeout periods in SETUP; in a standard configuration of one hard disk drive and one diskette drive, system consumes less than 30 Watts in standby mode System speed Fast and slow speeds available; fast speed is the speed of the microprocessor, slow speed is 8 MHz Press
Video RAM 512KB DRAM on main system board; expandable to 1MB using four 4 x 256 DIP-type DRAM chips Shadow RAM Supports shadowing of system and video BIOS ROM into RAM Memory relocation Supports relocation of 128KB of memory from A0000h to BFFFFh Cache 1KB of internal cache on processor Math coprocessor Cyrix 83S87-25 Clock/ calendar Real-time clock, calendar, and 114 bytes of CMOS RAM socketed on main system board with built-in rechargeable NiCad battery backup Controllers Video Cirrus Logic®
Interfaces Monitor Video interface for fixed or multi-frequency monitor built into system board; 15-pin, D-shell connector Parallel One standard parallel, unidirectional or bidirectional interface built into main system board; 25-pin, D-shell connector; operation controllable by SETUP option Serial Two RS-232C, programmable, asynchronous interfaces built into main system board; 9-pin, D-shell connectors Keyboard PSI 2 compatible keyboard interface built into main system board; 6-pin, mini DIN connect
Mass Storage Internal mounts: One 3½-inch wide, one-inch high drive Externally accessible mounts: One 3½-inch wide, one-inch high drive and two 5¼-inch wide, half-height drives Diskette drives 3.5-inch diskette drive, 1.44MB (high-density) or 720KB (double-density) 5.25-inch diskette drive, 1.2MB (high-density) or 360KB (double-density) Combination 3.5-inch/5.
SETUP Program Stored in ROM; accessible by pressing F2 during boot Physical Characteristics width 16.8 inches (427 mm) Depth 15.8 inches (401 mm) Height 4.4 inches (112 mm) Weight 17 lb (7.7 kg) (with one diskette drive, but without keyboard) Power Supply Type 200 Watt, switchable, UL/TUV listed, fan-cooled Input ranges 90-132 VAC or 180-260 VAC Maximum outputs +5 VDC at 20 Amps, -5 VDC at 0.5 Amp, +12 VDC at 8 Amps, -12 VDC at 0.
Environmental Requirements Condition Operating range Storage range Temperature 41° to 90° F (5° to 32° C) -4° to 140° F (-20° to 60° C) Humidity (non-condensing) 20% to 90% 10% to 90% Altitude -330 to 9,900 ft (-100 to 3,000 m) -330 to 39,600 ft (-100 to 12,000 m) Maximum wet bulb 68° F (20° C) 134° F (57° C) Acoustical noise 46.
Video Memory and Supported Resolutions Vertical Frequencies (Hz) Resolution Memory Requirements Color 640 x 480 512KB 256 60/72 1MB 32K/64K 60/72 16 bits/pixel 1MB 16.7M (TrueColor) 60/72 24 bits/pixel 512KB 256 56/60/72 8 bits/pixel 1MB 32K/64K 56/60/72 16 bits/pixel 800 x 600 Remarks 8 bits/pixel 16 43.5/60/70/ 72 4 bits/pixel 256 43.5/60/70/ 72 8 bits/pixel 16 43.
Hard Disk Drive Types Your computer comes with a When you select AUTO DETECT in SETUP, the system detects have installed and fills in the the following table. hard disk auto-sensing feature.
Hard disk drive types(continued) * Actual formatted size may be slightly different from size on drive label; you cannot change thisvalue.
Drive Option lnformation Hard disk drive options for 1-inch IDE drives * Select 1 or none for the precomp value. If neither of these optionsare available, select the maximum available precomp value.
IDE hard disk drive jumper settings * Model number Single drive Masterdrive Slave drive ConnerCP30084E C/D jumpered C/D jumpered No jumpers ConnerCP30104H C/D jumpered C/D, DSP jumpered No jumpers ConnerCP30174E C/D jumpered C/D jumpered No jumpers ConnerCP30254 C/D jumpered C/D jumpered No jumpers ConnerCP30344 C/D jumpered C/D jumpered No jumpers ConnerCFS420A C/D jumpered C/D jumpered No jumpers Conner CFA540A C/D jumpered C/D jumpered No jumpers Quantum ELS170AT DS jum
System Memory Map Memory to relocate BIOS 16MB (Maximum system memory) FF0000h System memory on board 1MB 0F0000h Available 0C8000h VGA BIOS ROM 0C0000h Display memory 640KB 0A0000h Conventional system memory: 640KB 000000h Specifications A-13
System l/O Address Map Hex address Assigned device 000 - 01 F DMA controller 1,8237 020 - 03F Interrupt controller 1,8259 022 - 024 Ali M1217 configuration register 040 - 05F Timer, 8254 060 - 06F Keyboard controller, 8042 070 - 07F(CMOS) Real-time clock NMI (non-maskable interrupt) mask 080 - 09F DMA page register, 74LS612 0A0 - 0BF Interrupt controller 2,8259 0C0-0DF DMA controIler 2,8237 0F0 Clearmath coprocessor 0F1 Reset math coprocessor 0F8 - OFF Math coprocessor 1F0 - 1F8 H
System I/O addressmap (continued) Hex address Assigned device 390 - 393 Cluster 3A0 - 3AF SDLC, bisynchronous 2 3B0 - 3BF Monochrome display and printerport 3C0-3CF Enhanced 3D0-3DF Color graphics monitor adapter 3F0 - 3F7 Diskette drive controller 3F8 - 3FF Serial port 1 6E2, 6E3 Data acquisition (adapter 1) 790 - 793 Cluster (adapter 1) AE2, AE3 Data acquisition (adapter 2) B90, B93 Cluster (adapter 2) EE2, EE3 Data acquisition (adapter 3) 1390 - 1393 Cluster (adapter 3) 22E1
Index A C AC power inlet, 1-5, 1-7, 5-3 Address map, system I/O, A-14 -15 Addresses, memory, 1-12, 1-17, A-13 Altitude, A-6 Application program compatibility, A-6 copy protected, 2-5 display problems, 5-6 errors, 5-10-11 exiting, 1-9, 2-4 installing, 1-19 problems, 5-10 -11 requiring slow speed, 1-16, 2-5 stopping, 2-3 timing requirements, 2-5 Auto-sensing feature, 1-13, A-2, A-8 AUTOEXEC.
Configuration changing, 1-9, 1-11 -19 drive, 4-22 errors, 1-11 files, 3-20, 5-2 SIMM, 1-14, 3-9 system, 5-1 -2 Connecting keyboard, 1-4 modem, 1-6 monitor, 1-5 mouse, 1-4 -5 power cords, 1-5 -7, 3-2, 3-4 printer, 1-6 Connector diskette drive, 4-2, 4-13, 4-19 -21 hard disk drive, 4-6, 4-10 -12 keyboard, 1-4, 1-15 monitor, 1-5 pin assignments, A-16 printer, 1-6 serial device, 1-6 Contrast, 5-6 Control codes, 2-3 -6, 5-4 Control panel settings, 5-11 Controller diskette drive, 3-6, A-2 errors, 5-13 hard disk dr
Diskette drive (continued) faulty, 5-7 installing, 4-1 -22 jumper, 3-6 latch, 2-3, 5-7 light, 1-8, 2-3 power cable, 4-19 -21, 5-8 problems, 5-8 removing, 4-21 types, A-4 Display adapter defining, 1-14 jumper settings, 5-6 DMA assignments, A-11 DRAM video chips installing, 3-17 -18 type, 3-17, A-2 Drive bays, location, 3-5 Drive bracket, 3-5, 4-24, 4-6 Drivers mouse, 1-5, 5-5 printer, 5-11 video, Intro-2, 1-20 Faceplate removing, 4-17 replacing, 4-22 Factory default settings, SETUP, 1-19 Fast processor spee
Hard disk drive (continued) formatting, 5-9 grounding plate, 4-5 guiderail, 4-5 installing, Intro-4, 4-1 -22 jumpers, 4-4, 4-15, 5-8 -9, A-11 light, 1-8 master, 4-4, 4-15, A-11 mounting frames, 4-5, 4-16 parameters, A-8 -10 physical format, 5-9 problems, 5-8 -10 removing, 4-14, 4-21 -22 setting type, 1-13 slave, 4-4, 4-15, A-11 standby mode, Intro-3, 1-17 -18, 5-8 -10, A-l timeout options, 1-17 -18, 5-8 -10, A-l types, 4-4, A-8 -9 user-defined, 1-14 Hardware interrupts, A-12 Height, computer, A-5 Help scree
M Main system board, see System, board Mass storage, Intro-l, Intro-4, 4-1, A-4 Master hard disk drive, 4-4, 4-15, A-11 Math coprocessor installing, 3-19-20 socket, 3-5 type, Intro-4, 1-12, 3-19, A-2 Memory addresses, 1-12, 1-17, A-13 clearing, 2-4 CMOS RAM, 1-10, 3-6, A-2 count, 1-8 extended, 1-16, A-13 installing, 3-9 insufficient, 5-11 map, A-13 modules, see SIMMs problems, 5-13 RAM, Intro-2, 1-16, A-2 relocate option, 1-16 removing, 3-11 reserved, 1-12 ROM, 1-10, 1-16, A-1 size, 1-14 standard, A-1 syste
Operating system (continued) prompt, 1-19 reloading, 2-4 version number, 5-2 Optical drive, Intro-4, 4-1, 4-15 Option cards connector board, 3-5 DIP switches, 5-12 guides, 3-14 installing, Intro-3, 3-13 -16 jumpers, 3-13, 5-12 problems, 5-12 removing, 3-7, 3-16 Option slots available, Intro-l cover, 3-14, 3-16 full-length, 3-14-15, A-3 half-length, 3-15-16, A-3 Optional equipment, 1-2, 3-1, 4-1 -22 Outlet, electrical, 1-6 -7, 5-3 P Parallel port connector pin assignments, A-16 controller, A-3 jumper settin
Prompt, 1-10, 1-19 PSI 2 compatible keyboard, Intro-1, A-3 mouse, Intro-l, 1-4 -5, A-34 R RAM, Intro-l-2, 1-16, A-2 Read/ write errors, 5-10 slot, 2-3 README files, Intro-2, 1-20 Real-time clock, 1-12, A-2 Refresh cycle time, 1-17 Relocate memory option, 1-16 Repairing files, 5-8 Reserved memory, 1-12 RESET button, 1-8, 2-4 Resetting the computer, 1-15, 2-4, 5-1 Resolutions, see Video resolutions Ribbon cable, see Cable, diskette drive or hard disk drive ROM, 1-10, 1-16, A-l RS-232C ports, 1-6, A-3 S Safe
Software, see Application programs Speaker, A-3 Specifications, A-1 -16 Speed, see Processor speed Speed light, 1-8, 2-5 Standby mode, Intro-3, 1-17 -18 5-5 -6, 5-8 -10, A-l Static electricity, 3-17 Stopping a command or program, 2-3 Storage devices, Intro-l, Intro-4, 4-1, A-4 System BIOS, 5-1 -2, A-1 board, 3-5 -6, 3-9, 3-13, 4-10 configuration, 5-1 -2 I/O address map, A-14 -15 identifying, 5-1 -2 memory map, A-13 startup information, 5-2 T Tape drive, Intro-4, 4-1, 4-15, A-4 Technical support, Intro-5 -6
Glossary 486SLC2-50 A processor chip specifically designed for high-performance systems. The chip is fully compatible with the i486 instruction set, and includes a 1KB instruction/ data cache. A batch file that MS-DOS executes automatically each time you turn on or reset the computer. BIOS Basic Input/ Output System. Routines in ROM that handle the basic input/ output functions of the operating system.
CPU Central Processing Unit. The integrated circuit (chip) responsible for integrating program instructions, performing calculations, and controlling all input and output operations. Driver A program that controls a specific piece of equipment in the system. Examples of drivers include expanded memory managers, display drivers, printer drivers, and mouse drivers. IDE Integrated Drive Electronics. A type of hard disk drive interface in which the controller is on the drive instead of on a controller card.
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. Microprocessor A CPU chip, such as the 486SLC. See also CPU. Numeric coprocessor See Coprocessor. Parallel A way of organizing communications between two pieces of computer equipment, in which the signals that make up each character are sent simultaneously. See also Serial.
Read Only Memory. The portion of the computer’s memory that contains permanent instructions and cannot be modified. Unlike RAM, ROM retains its contents even after you turn off the computer. See also RAM. RS-232C A standard serial interface. The computer has a connector that lets you attach an RS-232C-compatible device to your computer. Serial A way of organizing communications between two pieces of computer equipment, in which the signals that make up each character are sent sequentially.
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