Page 2
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 4
The power-on diagnostic error messages and error tone codes in Appendix C are copyright 1985-1989, Phoenix Technologies Ltd. Epson is a registered trademark and the EISA Series design is a trademark of Seiko Epson Corporation. General notice: Other product names may be trademarks of their respective companies.
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 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 suivant et les conserver pour references futures. Bien suivre tous les avertissements et les instructions indiqués sur l’ordinateur. Debrancher l’ordinateur de toute sortie murale avant le nettoyage. Utiliser un chiffon humide; ne jamais utiliser un nettoyeur liquide ou une bonbonne aérosol.
Page 8
10. S’assurer que le cordon d’alimentation de l’ordinateur n’est pas effrité. 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 amperes du cordon de rallonge.
Page 15
Introduction The Epson® EISA Series computer is a powerful, versatile system ideally suited for use as either a network server or a high-performance personal workstation. It incorporates the latest EISA (Extended Industry Standard Architecture) technology into a convenient desktop design. Its exceptional...
Page 16
The built-in interfaces let you connect basic peripheral devices (such as a printer and mouse) directly to the computer, leaving the expansion slots for optional devices such as a SCSI adapter or a networking card. Your computer’s EISA technology allows the 32-bit processor to access EISA-compatible I/O expansion boards 32 bits at a time optimizing system throughput.
You can also install a variety of other options, such as diskette drives, hard disk drives, a tape drive, or a SCSI subsystem. Check with your authorized Epson dealer to see which options are available. Software Your system comes with three diskettes (Reference 1,2, and 3)
How to Use This Manual This manual explains how to set up, configure, and operate your computer, as well as how to install options and run diagnostic tests. It does not cover your operating system; see your operating system manual for instructions on installing and using it.
International marketing locations are listed on the inside of this manual’s back cover. If you purchased your Epson product in the United States, Epson America provides local customer support and service through a nationwide network of authorized Epson dealers and Service Centers.
Chapter 1 Setting Up Your System This chapter describes the steps you perform to set up your system for the first time. It defines the system requirements and gives a general outline of the steps you need to follow to start using your computer.
Page 21
It is important to choose a safe, convenient location for your system. Make sure your location provides the following: A flat, hard surface. Surfaces like carpeted floors and beds attract static electricity, which can erase data on your disks, damage the computer’s circuitry, and prevent proper ventilation.
Installation Oveview This section lists the general steps you follow to install options, connect peripheral devices, and configure your system. For detailed instructions on performing these steps, see the appropriate sections specified below. 1. Install any optional equipment you want to add to your computer, such as disk drives, a math coprocessor, memory modules, or EISA option cards.
9. Connect all of your peripheral devices. 10. Install your operating system and any other application programs. See the manuals that came with your software for installation instructions. Installing Optional Equipment The first time you set up your computer, you should install any disk drives, math coprocessor, memory modules, or EISA option cards you plan to use.
Connecting Peripheral Devices You may not want to connect all your peripheral devices before you run the System Configuration program for the first time. If you’ll be installing ISA cards after running the program, you may want to connect only those devices necessary to perform the program’s functions.
Then connect the devices in the following order: 1. Connect your peripheral device cables to the computer. 2. Connect the power cords to the computer and other devices, if necessary. 3. Plug the power cords into their electrical outlets. Be sure to read the next section before you turn on your computer.
Always turn off the power, disconnect the computer’s power cord, and wait 30 seconds before you remove the cover. Only remove the cover to access internal devices. Now you can run the Change Country Code utility. Running the Change Country Code Utility Before you configure your computer or perform any other operations, you need to create new AUTOEXEC.BAT and CONFIG.SYS files for your country on the Reference 1 diskette.
Setting the Country Code for the first Time To run the Change Country Code utility the first time you boot your computer from the Reference 1 diskette, follow these steps: 1. Insert the Reference 1 diskette in drive A. Turn on your computer or press the 3.
Page 28
4. When you see the following message, press any key to reboot the system and run the System Configuration program: Now you should reboot the system to run the appropriate AUTOEXEC.BAT and CONFIG.SYS files and start the System Configuration program. Press any key to reboot .
Changing the Country Code If you need to change the country code for your system’s keyboard driver and configuration information, you can run the CHGCTR utility. Follow these steps: 1. Insert the Reference 1 diskette in drive A and log onto drive A.
Page 30
If you do not want to run System Configuration, remove the Reference 1 diskette from drive A and turn off your computer. The AUTOEXEC.BAT and CONFIG.SYS files on your Reference 1 diskette are now customized for the country you selected. The System Configuration program also sets the format of the date and time in your computer’s real-time clock to the appropriate format for the country you selected.
Chapter 2 Running System Configuration The System Configuration program, provided with your system on the Reference 1 diskette, allows you to configure your computer. Use the program to do the following: Learn about the configuration process Set the date and time Copy the configuration (CFG) files for any option cards you install Configure the system board and any option cards...
Note The first time you configure your computer, you must run the program from the Reference 1 diskette and it is best to always run it from there. How to Use This Chapter This chapter is divided into the following four sections: CI The Configuration Process describes the various aspects of configuring your computer using the System Configuration program.
ISA option cards may come with the necessary CFG file for this program. If not, Epson provides many ISA configuration files on the Reference 3 diskette. You can also write to the manufacturer of your option card and request a CFG file for it.
Using the Keyboard If you use a keyboard when you run the System Configuration program, refer to the table below for a description of the keys you can use to move the cursor and select items. If you’ll be using a mouse with the program, see “Using a Mouse” below. Most of the screens show which keys you can press to perform various operations.
You can obtain help in the following ways: Q Highlight a menu option to see a description of its function. tl Select Step 1: Important EPSON EISA configuration information for detailed information about each step in the configuration process.
Configuring Your System Follow the instructions in this section and on your screen to configure your computer using the System Configuration program. You configure your system in the following order: Set the date and time Add or remove boards; when you add an option card, the program copies the necessary configuration files View or edit the details of your configuration;...
3. Press IEnter You see the Main Menu: Main Menu Learn about configuring your computer Configure computer Set date Set time Access to other utilities Maintain system configuration diskette Exit from this utility Note If you installed any EISA option cards in your system, the program first asks you to insert a diskette containing a CFG file for the EISA card.
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. The first time you run the configuration program, set the date and time for your computer. You can set them again later to adjust your clock for seasonal time adjustments, such as daylight savings time.
Adding or Removing a Board Select Step 2: Add or remove boards when you need to add or remove an option card. The program displays a list of the computer’s slots with a description of any boards or cards that it detects. The computer automatically detects EISA cards, but you must add the necessary ISA card information.
System board options (continued) Non-cache areas Your computer automatically caches all of your memory except for the six non-cache memory blocks listed in the table below. You can define up to three additional, 16KB, non-cache memory blocks by selecting the User defined non-cache area(s) option and entering the block addresses.
Hard disk drive types The following table lists the types of hard disk drives you can use in your computer. Check this table and the manual that came with your hard disk to find the correct type for the hard disk drive(s) installed in your computer.
NDR1085 (4) Micropolis 1323A. Miniscribe 3035, Microscience HH1050. Seagate ST4053 (5) Epson IDE drives: 40MB (type 59). 1 OOMB (type 60). 200MB (type 64) (6) The BIOS translates the actual parameters for Cylinders, Heads, and Landing zone to these values, The parameters listed in your drive’s documentation may be the following: Cylinders (1366), Heads (8), and Landing zone (1365).
The table below describes the operations you can select from the Advanced menu and its submenus. Advanced configuration options 2-18 Running System Configuration...
SCI file and save it in your computer’s CMOS. If you run System Configuration on a non-target computer (an IBM AT compatible computer or another Epson EISA computer), you can create an file for the target computer. Then you can transport the alternate SCI file to the target computer, load it, and save it in that computer’s CMOS.
The program asks you to name the alternate SCI file you create. Do not name the file SYSTEM.SCI; this is the name of your current configuration file. Use the third method only when you are running the configuration program on a non-target computer. This method protects you from accidentally saving the configuration you create in that computer’s CMOS.
Using Special Modes You can run the System Configuration program in various special modes, including non-target modeling mode, by starting the program with one of the two commands described in this section. You can also use these commands to run the program from a hard disk that runs MS-DOS if you copy the necessary files to the disk first.
The table below describes the parameters you can use to modify the way the program runs on your computer. Note To run the System Configuration program in non-target modeling mode, add the /N parameter to the command line. Modeling mode only affects the way the configuration program operates;...
Then follow these steps to use the CF command: 1. To run the program from a diskette, insert the Reference 1 diskette in drive A and log onto drive A. To run the program from a hard disk, log onto the drive and directory where you copied the configuration files.
Copying the Configuration Files to a Hard Disk To run the System Configuration program from your hard disk, you must be running the MS-DOS operating system from that disk. To copy all the configuration files from the Reference 1 diskette to the hard disk, insert the diskette in drive A, type the following command, and press I: COPY A:*.* [d:] [path]...
Chapter 3 Using Your Computer This chapter briefly describes the following operations: II Locking the computer’s cover Ll Using a power-on password Ll Changing the processor speed Parking the hard disk drive heads. Locking the Computer’s Cover You can lock the cover onto the computer to prevent unauthorized users from accessing its internal components.
a Power-on Password Using If you set a power-on password when you ran the System Configuration program, you must enter it every time you turn on the computer. Follow these steps to enter your password: 1. When you turn on the computer, you see the following prompt: Enter password: 2.
Changing or Deleting a Password You can change or delete a password when you see the Enter password prompt. Follow these steps: 1. Turn on the computer. You see the prompt to enter a password. 2. To change the password, type the current password followed by a forward slash (/).
Page 58
If you set a password but do not turn on network server mode, you must enter the password before the computer loads the operating system or the network software. Once you load it, anyone can access your system by typing commands on the keyboard.
Note If you boot from a diskette, you see the Enter password prompt. Enter your password as described under “Using a Power-on Password” above. You cannot change or delete a password when you boot from the hard disk in network server mode. First insert a bootable diskette in drive A and turn on the computer.
If you often use a copy-protected program diskette, you may want to set your processor speed to change automatically to low speed when accessing the diskette and return to high speed when it is finished. There are three ways to change the processor speed: LI Run the System Configuration program (power-on simulation speed setting) U Enter a keyboard command (temporary speed setting)
Note You can use the commands listed above while you are running a program. However, if that program uses one of these commands for another function, you cannot use it to change the processor speed. For example, if the program uses the (F] [AltIlT] command to move the cursor, you cannot enter [xl IAltll~] to change the processor speed to low.
Many hard disk drives, including all the Epson drives, automatically park their heads when you turn off the computer.
Page 63
Follow these steps to run HDDPARK: 1. Insert the Reference 2 diskette in drive A and log onto that drive. Type and press IEnter The computer locks the HDDPARK heads and disables the keyboard. 3. Remove any diskettes and turn off the computer. Note You can also run HDDPARK by selecting Access t o o t h e r utilities from the Main Menu of the System...
Chapter 4 Accessing lnternal Components To access your computer’s internal components, you need to remove the cover. You may also need to remove the front panel and the subassembly (the metal case that holds the drive bays). The instructions in this chapter explain how to do these tasks: tl Remove and replace the cover Ll Remove and replace the front panel 0 Remove and replace the subassembly...
0 Every time you remove the cover, be sure to ground yourself by touching the inside of the computer’s back panel before you touch any components inside. If you are not properly grounded, you could conduct static electricity and damage your components. Also, do not touch any components except those that this manual instructs you to touch.
Page 66
Follow these steps to remove the cover: Turn off the computer and any peripheral devices connected to it. Then disconnect the computer’s power cord from the electrical outlet and from the back panel. Also disconnect any peripheral device cables that are connected to the computer, including the keyboard cable.
5. Grasp the sides of the cover (toward the front of the computer) and pull it firmly back toward you, as shown below. Then lift it up and off the computer. Removing the Front Panel You must remove the computer’s front panel to install or remove a disk drive from the external drive bay or to remove the subassembly from the computer.
Page 68
2. Release the six tabs securing the front panel to the computer case, as shown below. You may want to use a flat-blade screwdriver to release the tabs. 3. Once these tabs are free, grasp the sides of the front panel and pull it straight toward you, as shown below.
Removing the Subassembly You need to remove the subassembly if you are installing your first hard disk drive, removing your only hard disk drive, or installing or removing a hard disk drive that is mounted next to the power supply. Follow these steps: 1.
Page 70
4. Grasp the back of the subassembly by the edge on its upper left side, as shown below, and lift up the back end. 5. Pull the subassembly forward slightly to release it from the two pins beneath the front panel opening. 4 - 7 Accessing Infernal Components...
6. Holding the subassembly up, disconnect the diskette and hard disk drive cable connectors from their sockets on the main system board. 7. Now lift the subassembly out of the computer and place it on your work surface. Replacing the Subassembly Follow these steps to replace the subassembly: 1.
Page 72
5. Lower the back end of the subassembly into the computer. If necessary, align the post beneath the back right edge of the subassembly with the hole on the top of the power supply. Then lower the subassembly all the way down. 6.
7. Connect the necessary power supply and drive cables to the backs of all your drives, as described in Chapter 6. Replacing the Front Panel Follow these steps to replace the computer’s front panel: 1. Turn the computer so you are facing its front side. 2.
Replacing the Cover Follow these steps to replace the computer’s cover: Turn the computer so you are facing the back panel. Hold the cover at a slight angle, as shown below, and lower the front part onto the computer. Then lower the back of the cover.
Post-installation Setup Procedures After you install or remove options, you need to run the System Configuration program on your Reference 1 diskette so you can update your system’s configuration information. The program will automatically update the information about some optional equipment, such as additional memory or a math coprocessor.
Chapter 5 Installing and Removing Options This chapter provides instructions for installing and removing the following optional equipment: Q Option cards Ll Math coprocessor Q Memory modules (SIMMs). It also includes instructions for removing and installing the processor board to replace it or to add a math coprocessor. At the beginning of this chapter, you’ll find maps of your main system board and the available processor boards.
Processor Board Maps Refer the appropriate illustration below to locate components on your processor board. 486DX/33 processor board 486SX/25 processor board Installing and Removing Options...
Option Cards Your computer has five option slots, each of which accommodate one card of the following types: 0 32-bit EISA bus master option card 16-bit ISA compatible option card Ll 8-bit ISA compatible option card. Before you install an option card, check all the power requirements given in the documentation that came with the card.
Installing Option Cards Follow these steps to install an option card: 1. Unpack the option card and adjust any switches or jumpers on it, if necessary. Check the option card instructions and any of the jumper and switch settings you viewed when you ran the System Configuration program.
3. Insert the card into the slot with the connector pins pointing down, as shown below. If you are installing a full-length card, insert the other end of the card into the appropriate card guide near the front of the computer. Push the card downward firmly to insert it as far as it will go.
Processor Boards Your computer comes with an upgradeable processor board. To upgrade the board, you can: Ll Install a math coprocessor Ll Install a new coprocessor (486SX/25 only) Q Replace the processor board with a different board. Removing the Processor Board You need to remove the processor board to install or remove a math coprocessor on the board, or if you want to install a different processor board.
3. Pull the board straight up and out of the system board interface sockets; do not rock it back and forth. 4. If you are installing a math coprocessor, place the board on a static-free surface with the component side facing up and see the “Math Coprocessor”...
Math Coprocessor A math coprocessor speeds up the numeric calculations your computer performs when using some applications. It also increases the speed at which graphic images are displayed on your monitor when you use graphics-oriented software. You can install the following coprocessors: Coprocessors Installing a Math Coprocessor Carefully follow the steps below to install a math coprocessor.
3. Turn the coprocessor so that the orientation dot in one corner is in the position shown below. Align the coprocessor pins with the holes in the socket and gently push the coprocessor into the socket, pressing evenly on all sides. Caution If you insert the math coprocessor in the wrong position, you could permanently damage it.
Memory Modules Your computer comes with 4MB of memory provided by SIMMs (single inline memory modules) which are installed on the main system board. You can install additional SIMMs to increase your computer’s memory to 64MB. There are eight SIMM sockets on the main system board. Each socket can contain either a single-sided or double-sided SIMM.
The table below describes the type of SIMMs you can install in these sockets. SIMM description The SIMMs for your computer are usually described first by their number of logical number of bits they contain multiplied by the width of the data bus (256Kbx36).
The table below gives examples of valid SIMM configurations you can use in your computer. Example SIMM configurations Factory configuration Once you have determined where to add SIMMs, follow the instructions below to install them. If you need to remove the four 1MB SIMMs that came with your system, see “Removing Memory Modules”...
Page 89
Position each SIMM so its notched edge is toward the back of the computer; then insert it in the socket at an angle as shown below. 3. Gently press down on the SIMM and, at the same time, press the top to the left until it is vertical and clicks into place between the metal tabs and the retaining posts.
Make sure the SIMM is fully inserted into the socket and that the retaining posts pins fit into the holes at both ends. 4. Repeat steps 2 and 3 for each SIMM you want to install. Removing Memory Modules If you need to remove memory modules from your computer, follow the steps below.
If you are installing or removing a non-Epson drive, you can follow these instructions, although some of the steps in this chapter may not apply. See the manual that came with your drive for more information.
Using the Correct Drive Bay Your system can hold up to five half-height drives or a combination of third-, half-, and full-height drives. As shown below, there are two drive bays: the external drive bay and the internal drive bay. The external bay can accommodate up to three drives in the following configurations: Ll One third-height drive and two half-height drives...
If you are installing a hard disk, it is best to install it in the internal bay. This reserves the external bay for any accessible drives you may want to add later. If you prefer, however, you can install a hard disk in the external bay; just leave the drive slot cover installed in the front panel.
The following illustration shows the location of the jumpers on the optional Epson 200MB IDE hard disk drive. If you are installing another type of Epson hard disk drive, the jumpers may be in a different location, and there may be four jumper positions instead of two.
Installing or Removing a Drive in the External Bay This section describes how to install or remove an Epson diskette drive. You can also use these instructions to install or remove another type of storage device; see the manual that came with it for additional installation instructions.
a Drive Installing On each interior side of the external drive bay, there is a plastic guide with four support grooves, as shown below. You need to select the appropriate grooves for your drive depending on the size of the drive and where you want to locate it. The third-height diskette drive that came with your computer is installed in the grooves at the top of the bay.
Page 97
Follow the steps below to install a drive in the external bay. 1. Locate the following parts that came with your computer for each drive you will install: Ct two metal drive brackets Ct four retaining screws (with attached flat washers) Ll two nuts (with attached star washers) Q small wrench.
Page 98
3. Slide the drive into the bay as shown below, aligning the bracket screws on each side with the appropriate grooves in the drive bay guide. 4. Guide the holes in the front of the brackets over the threaded posts on the front of the subassembly. Then push the drive all the way into the drive bay.
Page 99
10. If you installed a hard disk drive, go to step 12. Note If you are installing a non-Epson drive, see the manual that came with it for instructions on connecting the drive cable.
Page 100
Align the cable connector with the drive interface so that the divider in the connector lines up with the gap in the interface, as shown below. Then push in the connector. 11. To remove the slot cover for the drive you just installed, turn the front panel so you are looking at the inside of the panel.
Page 101
12. Locate the hard disk drive cable. If you are installing your first hard disk drive, this cable came in the box with your computer. If you are installing a second drive, the cable is attached to your internal hard disk drive. Align the available cable connector with the drive socket so the row in the connector with the blocked hole lines up with the row in the socket with the missing pin, as shown below.
Drive Removing a Follow these steps to remove a drive from the external bay: 1. Disconnect the power supply and drive cables from the back of the drive you want to remove, as shown below. 2. Use the small wrench to remove the two nuts securing the metal drive brackets to the front of the drive bay, as shown below.
Page 103
Grasp the drive from the front and pull it out. Note If you are removing an IDE hard disk drive from the external bay and it is your only hard disk drive, you must also remove the hard disk drive cable from its connector on the main system board.
Installing or Removing a Drive in the Internal Bay You can install only 3½-inch hard disk drives in your computer’s internal drive bay. If you are installing your first hard disk drive, install it in the position farthest from the power supply.
Removing a Drive Follow these steps to remove an internal drive: 1. Disconnect the power supply and drive cables from the drive (if you have not already done so), as shown below. 2. Remove the four screws securing the drive to the internal bay. Installing and Removing Drives 6-15...
Note If you remove one IDE hard disk drive and leave another one in the computer, you must set the jumpers on the remaining drive to indicate that you now have only one drive installed. Remove the remaining drive by following steps 1 and 2 above;...
Page 107
2. Adjust the drive’s position so that the four mounting screw holes on the drive are aligned with the corresponding holes in the drive bay. Then secure the drive with the four retaining screws that came with it. 6-17 Installing and Removing Drives...
3. If you are installing your first hard disk drive, you must locate the hard disk drive cable that came with your computer. You connect this cable to the appropriate connector on the main system board. This connector, labelled IDE, Connect the cable to the IDE connector, aligning the tab on the cable with the notch on the connector.
Page 109
Align the notched corners of the cable connector with the notched comers of the drive socket, as shown below. Then push in the connector. 3. Locate the cable for each drive installed in the internal drive bay. If you removed the subassembly earlier, also reconnect the drive cable(s) to the drive(s) in the external bay.
Page 110
Then push in the connector. missing pin Note If you are connecting a non-Epson drive, see the manual that came with it for instructions on connecting the drive cable. 4. Arrange the drive and power cables so you can close the clasps on the side of the subassembly.
Appendix A Running System Diagnostics You can test the following devices using the System diagnostics program: tl System board Lt Numeric coprocessor Cl System memory 0 Diskette drive(s) LI Hard disk drive(s) c3 Serial port(s) tl Parallel port(s) Cl Dot matrix printer(s). For some devices, you can run more than one type of test.
Starting the Program Follow these steps to start the System diagnostics program: Insert the Reference 1 diskette in drive A and turn on or reset the computer. Note Always boot the computer from the Reference 1 diskette to start System diagnostics. This clears from memory any protected mode terminate-and-stay-resident (TSR) programs or other utilities and frees it for use by the diagnostics program.
When the list is correct, you can run diagnostic tests on each device. If you do not want to test a device, you can remove it from the list. You can also add a device to the list. Deleting Tests To remove devices from the Items Detected list so the System diagnostics program cannot test them, follow these steps: 1.
Adding Tests If you want to add devices to the Items Detected list, follow these steps: 1. Press It) or a to select Add Tests. You see the Add menu, such as the following: Diskette Drive B Hard Disk Drive #2 Parallel Port LPT2 Parallel Port LPT3 LPT2 Printer Test...
Running Tests Follow these steps to run a test from the Execute menu: 1. Press It) or m to select Execute. You see the Execute menu, such as the following: System Board Numeric Coprocessor System Memory Diskette Drive A Hard Disk Drive #l Serial Port COMl Serial Port COM2 Parallel Port LPTl...
Use [rl or m or type the number of the desired option to highlight a test and then press CEnter] to run it. Note If you selected to run the tests more than once, you do not see a submenu. The program immediately begins executing all the tests that do not destroy data.
System Diagnostic Tests The table below lists all the System diagnostic tests you can run on your system. System diagnostic tests The Write, read check destroys data on the disk. Be sure to back up data on a hard disk or insert a blank, formatted diskette before running this test. A - 7 Running System Diagnostics...
Error Messages The following table lists all the error messages that may appear during System diagnostic testing. System diagnostic error messages Running System Diagnostics...
Page 119
System diagnostic error messages (continued) Running System Diagnostics...
You may need to use the procedure in this chapter to physically format a hard disk if you installed a non-Epson hard disk in your computer that has never received the low-level format and did not come with its own format utility.
Note Sometimes, after a hard disk has been used for a long time, its data becomes fragmented, causing the disk to perform less efficiently or produce errors. If this happens, check your operating system manual for procedures you can perform to reorganize your data on the hard disk.
Reformatting a Used Disk To reformat a disk you have been using, follow these steps: 1. Use the Non-destructive surface analysis option to check for unflagged bad tracks. 2. If errors occur during the Non-destructive surface analysis, back up your hard disk to diskettes. 3.
Option I, Format If you select Format from the Hard Disk Format Menu, you see the following (for a disk with no defective track table): Format Hard Disk Scan hard disk to get defective track information? (Y/N) (If the disk already has a defective track table, you do not see this because you do not need to scan for bad tracks.) 1.
Page 125
For an Epson hard disk drive, it is best to accept the recommended skewed sector (also called the interleave factor) of 1, since this setting allows your drive to perform more efficiently. For other hard disk drives, you may need to change this value if the documentation that came with the disk recommends a different number.
4. The program now allows you to edit the defective track table. At the bottom of the table is this prompt: Modify defective track table ? (Y/N) Select N if you want to leave the table as it is. Then skip the next section and go to “Formatting the Disk”...
If you make a mistake, move the cursor block to the incorrect track and press a to change the track data or [Dl to delete the track from the table. Change the track data in the same way as you add a track. The maximum valid cylinder number and head number and nn) vary according to the capacity of the hard disk.
If you continue with formatting, you see: started. Format Head : n n n You see the head and cylinder numbers decrease as the program progresses. When formatting is complete, the program flags any bad tracks and you see a series of messages like these: Format finished.
Page 129
To start this test, select Destructive surface analysis from the Hard Disk Format Menu. You see these messages: Analyze Hard Disk Read/Save/Write/Read/Restore/Read check Current cylinder is nnnn As the program checks each track, it decreases the cylinder numbers to zero. When the test is complete, the program displays a report on the status of the disk, including a table of unflagged tracks that produced write, read errors-such as the following:...
If the program finds an unflagged bad track, the report is followed by a table like this: Write, Read Error Tracks Cylinder Head Confirm to register the tracks in the Write, Read Error Track Table as bad tracks. Do you want to register the error tracks as bad tracks? (Y/N) To flag these tracks as bad, select as they are flagged.
As the program checks each track, it decreases the cylinder numbers to zero. When the test is complete, the program displays a report on the status of the disk, such as the following: Analysis finished. Count of tracks flagged bad Count of tracks with read, verify errors = Count of good tracks No read, verify error was detected.
If the suggestions here or in Appendix A do not help solve the problem, see “Where to Get Help” in the Introduction for instructions on contacting your dealer or Epson customer service. Identifying Your System When you contact your dealer, be ready to provide the serial number of your computer and its current configuration.
2. At the command prompt, enter the appropriate command to display the version number of your operating system. Write it down, and then obtain the version numbers of any application programs you are using. Error Messages Your computer’s built-in memory (ROM) contains a series of diagnostic programs, called power-on diagnostics.
Power or Lock-up Problems If you are having trouble with the computer’s power or the system locks up, see the suggestions below. The computer does not start when you turn if on. Turn off the power and check the following: U Be sure all cables are securely connected to the computer.
Page 137
Q If you think the problem may be caused by a loose physical connection inside the computer, follow these steps: 1. Remove any diskettes and then turn off your peripheral devices and your computer. 2. Disconnect the computer’s power cord and peripheral device cables and then remove the computer’s cover, as described in Chapter 4.
Page 138
The computer does not respond when you type. If you have just turned on the computer, check the following: Li Make sure your keyboard is securely connected to the computer. Ct If you entered the wrong password and cannot access your system, see “Password Problems”...
Page 139
When these circuits detect a high temperature, they shut off all the DC outputs in the power supply and your computer stops operating. This does not damage the power supply, but you must remove the cause of the high temperature before you can use your system again, To restore normal power supply operation, follow these steps: 1.
Password Problems If you set a password using the System Configuration program and you have trouble using your password, check the section below that describes the problem you are having. You enter the password, but nothing happens. Type the password again and press [Enter. You have three chances to enter it correctly before the system locks up.
Page 141
2. Replace the computer’s cover. (See Chapter 4 for instructions.) 3. If you do not have a hard disk, insert a bootable diskette in drive A. Turn on the computer and allow it to load the operating system. 4. Then turn off the computer, remove the cover, and enable the password function by setting jumper Jl on the main system board to position B.
When the computer reboots, you see the Enter password prompt. Enter the password to access your system. Note If you turned on network server mode when you set a new password and then booted your system from the hard disk, you do not see the Enter password prompt.
The monitor does not Ll Make sure your monitor and display adapter card match. Also, be sure any switches or jumpers on the card are set properly. See the documentation that came with your monitor and display adapter for instructions. 0 Be sure you chose the correct display adapter type in the System Configuration program.
See Chapter 2. If you are still having trouble, test the drive by running the System diagnostic tests described in Appendix A. If the diagnostics program indicates an error, contact your Epson dealer. diskette drive is Contact your Epson dealer.
Also, check the jumper settings on your drive to be sure they are set correctly. Ll If you installed a non-Epson hard disk drive, verify that it was physically formatted. This type of format is usually done by the manufacturer;...
You notice a reduction in hard disk performance. Cl The data on the disk may have become fragmented. You may want to back up all your data and then use a disk compaction utility to reorganize the files on your disk. Contact your dealer for information.
Printer Problems Ll Make sure the printer has power and is properly connected to the computer. (Also, be sure your printer has paper in it.) LI Check the printer manual for the printer’s correct DIP switch or control panel settings. Q If you are using more than one parallel port or more than one serial port, check the primary and secondary port settings in the System Configuration program to make sure...
Q If necessary, make sure that you used the proper cable to connect the device to the option card connector. Memory Module Problems tl If the memory count displayed by power-on diagnostics or the System Configuration program is incorrect, you or your dealer may not have installed the SIMMs correctly.
Ll Be sure that you set the built-in mouse port option in the System Configuration program correctly for your mouse port. See Chapter 2 for more information. Q If you are still having trouble with your mouse, check the documentation that came with it for troubleshooting information or contact your mouse dealer.
Appendix D Specifications Main System Board System memory BIOS Shadow RAM EISA configuration 8KB SRAM; battery-backup Clock/calendar Interfaces Serial Parallel 4MB RAM standard on SIMMs; expandable using lMB, 2MB, 4MB, or 8MB SIMMs up to 64MB (maximum); SIMMs must be 70ns, 36-bit, 72-pin, gold-leaded, fast-page mode type Two-part system BIOS;...
Mouse Keyboard Option slots Speaker Controllers Diskette and tape drive Hard disk Specifications Mini DIN, 6-pin connector for PS/2 compatible mouse or other device Mini DIN, 6-pin connector for PS/2 compatible keyboard Five 32-bit EISA expansion slots (16-bit and B-bit ISA compatible); bus-mastering option cards allowable in all slots Internal;...
Power Supply Type Input ranges Maximum current Power supply maximum outputs The +12 V peak current is limited to 30 seconds maximum. Output cables Option slot power limits D - 4 Specifications 235W, fan-cooled, automatic input voltage sensing, thermally protected 98 to 132 VAC and 196 to 264 VAC, 47 to 63 At 110 Volts, 6 Amps;...
System Memory Map Use of the memory areas for video memory and the video BIOS depends upon the type of video adapter card installed. Specifications D-7...
Glossary Address A number or name that identifies the location where information is stored in a computer’s memory. Application program A software program designed to perform a specific task, such as a word processing or spreadsheet program. ASCII American Standard Code for Information Interchange. A standardized coding system for representing characters, such as numbers, letters, and graphic symbols.
Base memory The memory in the computer below 1MB that is available to MS-DOS and application programs-usually 640KB. Also called conventional memory or main memory. Batch file A type of file that lets you execute a series of commands by typing one command.
CFG (configuration) file A file that provides the System Configuration program with all the information it needs about your system board or an option card. Most EISA and ISA cards come with CFG files. Some CFG files for ISA cards are included on the Reference 3 diskette. Color Graphics Adapter.
Page 160
Control code A command (generated when you hold down C and press another key on the keyboard) that instructs the computer to perform a specific function. Coprocessor An optional device that enables the computer to process certain mathematical calculations faster. Copy-protected program A type of program that cannot be copied.
Page 161
Default Any value or setting that takes effect when the computer is turned on or reset. A default value stays in effect unless you override it temporarily by changing a setting or you reset the default value itself. Device driver A file containing instructions that allow your computer to recognize and control a device.
Page 162
DMA channel Direct Memory Access channel. The pathway through which data is transferred between main storage and I/O devices. This transfer method requires no processor intervention. Disk Operating System. A commonly used operating system that controls the computer’s input and output functions. See also Operating system.
Expanded memory Memory that specially written MS-DOS application programs can use with an Expanded Memory Specification (EMS) device driver. Extended Memory Memory above 1MB that is accessed by the protected mode of the microprocessor and is available to some application programs and operating systems.
Page 164
High-density A type of format that allows you to store more data than on single- or double-density diskettes. A 5¼-inch high-density diskette can store 1.2MB of data. A 3½-inch high-density diskette can store 1.44MB of data. Input/output (I/O) port See Port. Interface A physical or software connection used to transmit data between equipment or programs.
Page 165
LIM 4.0 EMS Version 4.0 of the Lotus/Intel/Microsoft Expanded Memory Specification-a protocol that allows certain application programs to use memory that MS-DOS cannot use. Main system board The board built into your computer containing the circuitry the computer requires to operate. Mapping The method used to mark to the geographic location of a resource within the memory address space.
Page 166
Megahertz(MHz) A unit used to measure oscillation frequency (of a computer’s internal timing clock). A megahertz is one million cycles per second. Memory The area where your computer stores data. Memory contents are stored permanently (in ROM) or temporarily (in RAM). Memorymodule A small circuit board that contains memory chips.
Monitor The piece of hardware that contains the screen and displays information. Monochrome monitor A monitor that displays in only one color, such as green or amber, as opposed to a color monitor which can display in several colors. Mouse A hand-held pointing device with one or more buttons.
Non-target modeling mode A method you can use to run the System Configuration program to create an SCI file for another computer. This mode prevents you from saving the information in the CMOS of the computer on which you are running the program. Numeric keypad The number and cursor control keys grouped on the right side of the keyboard.
Page 169
Parameter A qualifier added to a command that tells MS-DOS what particular conditions to look for and specifies information such as what data to process and where to locate or store a file. Parity A method used to verify the accuracy of data transmissions by adding a bit that makes the total of the byte odd for odd parity or even for even parity.
Processor board A special, upgradable circuit board connected to the main system board containing the microprocessor, cache memory, and a socket for a math coprocessor. Processor speed See Operating speed. Random Access Memory. The portion of the computer’s memory used to run programs and store data while you work. All data stored in RAM is erased when you turn off or reset the computer;...
Page 171
Read Only Memory. A portion of memory that can only be read and cannot be used for temporary storage. ROM retains its contents even when you turn off the power. Roof directory The top-level directory in MS-DOS, designated by a \ (backslash).
Serial The type of interface that transmits data one bit at a time. See also Interface Shadow RAM The feature provided by your computer that enables it to copy ROM BIOS information into the RAM area of memory to speed up processing.
Tracks Addressable, concentric circles on a disk, resembling the grooves on a record, which help to divide the disk into separate accessible areas. UNIX An operating system that supports multitasking and is suited to multi-user environments. UNIX is compatible with a range of computers, from personal computers to mainframes.