Epson Equity Ie Q50188015-1 User Manual
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Epson Equity Ie Q50188015-1 User Manual

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  • Page 1 EQLJITYIe User's Guide ® EPSON...
  • Page 2 ® EPSON EGlLJITYIe User’s Guide Q50188015-1...

  • Page 3: Copyright Notice

    Epson America, Inc. makes no representations or warranties, either express or implied, by or with respect to anything in this manual, and shall not be liable for any implied warranties of merchantability and fitness for a particular purpose or for any indirect, special, or consequential damages. Some states do not allow the exclusion of incidental or consequential damages, so this exclusion may not apply to you.

  • Page 4: Fcc Compliance Statement

    Disconnect the peripheral devices and their input/output cables one at a time. If the interference stops, it is caused by either the peripheral device or its I/O cable. These devices usually require shielded I/O cables. For Epson peripheral devices, you can obtain the proper shielded cable from your dealer. For non- Epson peripheral devices contact the manufacturer or dealer for assistance.

  • Page 6: Table Of Contents

    Contents Introduction ......... . How to Use This Manual .
  • Page 7 Using the BACKUP command ......Using the Epson HELP Utility ......
  • Page 8 Using the XTREE Utility ....... . . Running XTREE ........Cautions .
  • Page 9 Performing System Diagnostics ......Starting System Diagnostics ....... Modifying the DEVICE LIST .
  • Page 10 Specifications ......... Main Unit .

  • Page 11: Introduction

    Personal Computer and PC XT” on the Equity Ie. You may also want to install an optional 8087 math coprocessor to speed up calculations on your computer. Check with your Epson dealer to find out which options you can use.

  • Page 12: How To Use This Manual

    IBM PC or PC XT on your Equity Ie. In addition to MS-DOS and GW-BASIC, Epson has also included several time-saving utilities that make MS-DOS easier to use: HELP MENU, and ®...

  • Page 13: Where To Get Help

    We are confident that this policy will provide you with the assistance you need. If you need to find an Epson dealer or service center in your area, please call our Consumer Information number at 1-800-922-8911.

  • Page 14: Setting Up Your System

    Chapter 1 Setting Up Your System Setting up your Epson Equity Ie computer is easy. Just follow the steps in this chapter. They describe how to set up your computer, start MS-DOS, and copy the system diskettes that come with your Equity Ie. At the back of this manual you’ll find a foldout showing the front and back panels of the...

  • Page 15: Choosing A Location

    In addition, you may have purchased a compatible monitor. You’ll also find a registration card with the main unit. Fill out this card now and mail it to Epson. With your registration card on file, Epson can send you update information.

  • Page 16: Connecting The Keyboard

    Appropriate power sources. To prevent static charges, connect all your equipment to 3-prong, 120-volt grounded outlets. You need one outlet for the main unit, another for the monitor, and additional outlets for a printer and any other peripherals. No electromagnetic interference. Locate your system away from any electrical device that generates an electromagnetic field.

  • Page 17: Connecting A Monitor

    You can change the angle of the keyboard by adjusting the legs on the bottom. To adjust the legs, turn the keyboard over and lift each leg upward until it locks into place. You can adjust the legs to two different positions, or leave them flat.

  • Page 18: Connecting A Printer

    The Equity Ie has both parallel and serial interfaces. You can easily connect a printer or plotter that has either type of interface-just follow the instructions below. Epson offers a full range of printer products. Consult your dealer for more information.

  • Page 19: Connecting To The Parallel Interface

    To connect a printer to the main unit, you need an IBM-compatible printer cable. If you are not sure which one you need, consult your Epson dealer. Once you have a printer cable, follow these steps to connect your printer to the parallel interface on the main unit: Place the printer next to your computer.

  • Page 20: Connecting To The Serial Interface

    Connect the other end of the cable to the printer as shown in the following illustration. To secure the cable, squeeze the clips at each side of the printer connector and push them into place. Plug the printer’s power cable into an electrical outlet. Connecting to the serial interface If you have a printer (or another peripheral such as a modem) with a serial interface, connect it to the serial (RS232C) port at the back of the...

  • Page 21: Connecting The Power Cord

    Use the MS-DOS MODE command (or the Epson MENU program) to make these changes. See your MS-DOS manual for instructions.
  • Page 22 Insert the power cord into the AC power inlet on the left side of the back panel, as shown in the following illustration. To avoid electrical shock, always plug the computer end of the cable into the computer before plugging the other end into the wall socket. Plug the other end of the power cord into a three-prong, 120-volt, grounded electrical outlet.

  • Page 23: Inserting The Startup Diskette

    Inserting the Startup Diskette Follow these steps to insert the Startup/Operating 1 diskette: Hold the diskette with the printed label facing up and the a---.* n,-.;. a* : intO drive A. as showp in tL- C-II,---. .” Insert the diskette in the drive so that it clicks into place. When the diskette is all the way in, the release button pops out.

  • Page 24: Starting The System

    Appendix B on troubleshooting, or if you want to install an optional 8087 math coprocessor, consult your Epson dealer. Always turn off the power, disconnect the computer’s power cord, and wait about ten seconds before you remove the computer’s cover.

  • Page 25: Initial Screen Display

    To turn on the computer, press the main unit. The power indicator on the front panel lights up and the cooling fan inside the main unit starts. After a few seconds, the computer begins to perform an internal self test. If you cannot see the screen display clearly, use the controls on your monitor to adjust the brightness and contrast until the characters on the screen are clear and bright.
  • Page 26 The computer then boots (starts up) the MS-DOS operating system. The screen displays a date prompt similar to this: Current date is Sat 06-04-88 Enter new date (mm-dd-yy) Type the current date in the format displayed and press to set the date for July 12, 1988, you would type 07-12-88. This sets the real-time clock inside your computer.

  • Page 27: Copying System Diskettes

    Copying System Diskettes Now that you have set up your system and loaded MS-DOS, it important that you make copies of your three system diskettes right away. Use only the copies (usually called “working copies”) for daily use and store the originals in a safe place.

  • Page 28: Copying With One Diskette Drive

    Press Y so you can make a copy of the Operating 2 diskette. Remove the diskettes from drives A and B by pressing the release buttons on each drive. Then insert the Operating 2 diskette in drive A and another blank diskette in drive B.
  • Page 29 If the diskette in drive A is not formatted, the DISKCOPY program formats it. Then the program begins copying the data from the computer’s memory to the formatted diskette. When it has copied all the files from memory, the screen displays this message: Insert SOURCE diskette in drive A: Press any key when ready .

  • Page 30: Preparing A Hard Disk For Use

    (to make backups, for example). Although the hard disk is very reliable, it is essential to back up any of your hard disk files that you cannot afford to lose. Use the Epson MENU program or the MS-DOS BACKUP command described in your MS-DOS manual to back up your hard disk files.

  • Page 31: Creating The Ms-Dos Partition

    Note If you plan to use an operating system other than MS-DOS, you need to use that operating system to partition the hard disk and copy the system files to it. In the following procedures you will be entering MS-DOS commands and using the working copies of your Startup/Operating 1, Operating 2, and Reference diskettes.

  • Page 32: Formatting The Ms-Dos Partition

    Press Y to use the entire hard disk for MS-DOS and press screen displays the following message: System will now restart Insert DOS diskette in drive A: Press any key when ready . . . Press any key to restart the system (the MS-DOS diskette is already in drive A).
  • Page 33 Note 001 and US are the country code and the keyboard code for the United States. If you want to substitute other codes, see your MS-DOS manual. The screen displays the following message: SELECT is used to install DOS the first time. SELECT erases everything on the specified target and then installs DOS.

  • Page 34: Copying The Reference And Operating 2 Files

    When all the files are copied, the A > prompt reappears. The SELECT procedure is complete. Note The SELECT command copies all the MS-DOS files on the Startup/ Operating 1 diskette. However, to use the complete operating system as described in this manual and in your MS-DOS manual, you also need to copy the files on the Operating 2 and Reference diskettes to your hard disk.

  • Page 35: Booting From The Hard Disk

    Booting From the Hard Disk Now you can boot your system (load MS-DOS) from drive C, your hard disk. Be sure there is no diskette in drive A; if a system diskette is in drive A, MS-DOS boots from the diskette. Turn off the computer, wait at least five seconds, and then turn it back on.

  • Page 36: Using The Equity Ie

    Chapter 3 Using the Equity Ie This chapter describes some basic procedures for using your Equity Ie computer and keyboard. Special Keys on the Equity Ie Keyboard The illustration below shows the standard Equity Ie keyboard. Certain keys on your keyboard serve special functions when your computer is running application programs.
  • Page 37 The following table describes special keys on the Equity Ie keyboard. lab ‘2, Moves the cursor to the right in normal mode and to the left in shift mode. Caps Lock Changes the letter keys from lower- to uppercase; changes back to lowercase when pressed again.

  • Page 38: Selecting Execution Speed

    Always complete your current operation and exit the program first. To change the speed, press the computer is running at 8 MHz, the panel is orange, and at 10 MHz, the light is green. EPSON Using the Equity Ie button on the front panel. When the SPEED...

  • Page 39: Using Diskettes

    Using Diskettes Diskette drives allow you to store data on diskettes and retrieve and use stored data. All Equity Ie systems have at least one 720KB diskette drive; you may also have a hard disk drive or a second diskette drive in your system.

  • Page 40: Caring For Diskettes

    You need to format new diskettes before you can use them with an operating system. Formatting erases all the data on a diskette and prepares it to receive new data, so be sure to format only new blank diskettes or diskettes that contain data you want to erase.

  • Page 41: Inserting And Removing Diskettes

    Inserting and removing diskettes To insert a diskette into a diskette drive, hold it with the label facing up and the arrow on the left side pointing into the computer: Slide the diskette into the drive until it clicks into place. To remove a diskette, press the release button on the diskette drive.

  • Page 42: Making Backup Copies

    Making backup copies Copy all diskettes that contain programs, as you did the master system diskettes that come with the Equity Ie, and use only the copies. Store your original system diskettes in a safe place away from your working diskettes. Copy your data diskettes (or hard disk files) regularly, as often as you update them.

  • Page 43: Using A Single Diskette Drive

    Using a single diskette drive An operating system expects the computer to have at least two physical diskette drives, and it displays prompts and messages accordingly. If your system has only one diskette drive, MS-DOS treats your single drive like two logical drives.

  • Page 44: Caring For The Hard Disk

    Copy your data files regularly (as often as you update them) to keep your backup diskettes up-to-date. Use the Epson MENU utility or the MS-DOS BACKUP command to back up your hard disk files. Use the MENU utility or the MS-DOS DISKCOPY command to make copies of your system and program diskettes.

  • Page 45: Resetting The Computer

    Resetting the Computer You can reset the computer to reload the operating system or to restart a program. You may need to reset the computer if an error occurs and the computer does not respond to anything you type. However, resetting erases all data in the computer’s temporary memory (RAM) that you have not stored, so reset your computer only when necessary.

  • Page 46: Turning Off The Computer

    Turning Off the Computer Before you turn off your computer, save your data, exit the program you are using, and remove all diskettes from the diskette drives. Turn off your monitor and peripherals first, and then turn off the main unit by pressing button on the front panel.
  • Page 47 Using the Equity Ie 3-12...

  • Page 48: Using Msdos With Your Equity Ie

    Chapter 4 Using MSDOS with Your Equity Ie Your Equity Ie comes with MS-DOS, version 3.3. MS-DOS manages your computer system by doing such things as keeping the computer’s memory organized, controlling the monitor display, accepting keyboard input, and directing external communications. To communicate with the operating system, you use MS-DOS commands.

  • Page 49: Changing The Default Drive

    Changing the Default Drive When you see the A > prompt, you know that MS-DOS is operating from drive A. If you want to run a program or find a file on a different drive, however, you must specify that drive. You can do this either by logging on to that drive or by including the drive identifier (the drive letter followed by a colon) when you type the filename.

  • Page 50: Entering Ms-Dos Commands

    Each MS-DOS command is either internal or external. Internal commands are commands that are built into MS-DOS and can be used at any time once MS-DOS is loaded into memory External commands are stored on your system diskettes as program files. To run an external command, MS-DOS must be able to locate the file from your system diskette or from a directory on the hard disk.

  • Page 51: Using Directories

    create using an application program is stored in a special format. If you use a different application program to read that file, you may encounter problems. Each file must have a unique filename so you can retrieve it when you need to.
  • Page 52 Copying from one directory to another Deleting a directory You may also want to read about XTREE, an Epson utility that lets you perform all these functions plus others. XTREE is very easy to use and is described later in this chapter.

  • Page 53: Listing The Contents Of A Directory

    Listing the contents of a directory To list the files in the current directory, type DIR and press lists the names of the files in the current directory on the current drive. If you are logged on to drive C but want to see a directory of the files on the diskette in drive A, type DIR A: and press There are two special notations that identify the current directory and the next directory.

  • Page 54: Creating Directories

    Note MS-DOS contains some commands that make using pathnames easier. The APPEND command lets you set a search path for data files and executable files. The PATH command lets you specify a search path for commands and program files so you don’t have to type a full path name every time you want to call up an application program or an MS-DOS command.

  • Page 55: Changing Directories

    Changing directories To change directories, type CHDIR (or CD) followed by a backslash and the name of the directory. For example, to change to the LEDGER directory, type the following and press CD \LEDGER The backslash identifies the LEDGER directory as a subdirectory of the root directory.

  • Page 56: Deleting A Directory

    Note You can also copy files using XTREE, MENU, or XCOPY. See the sections later in this chapter on using the XTREE and MENU utilities, and see your MS-DOS manual for more information on the XTREE and XCOPY commands. Deleting a directory If you no longer need a directory, you can remove it with the RMDIR (remove directory) command.

  • Page 57: Formatting Diskettes With A Hard Disk And One Diskette Drive

    Note Resides the method described below, you can also format diskettes using the Epson MENU utility. This program is easy to use because it lets you select operations from a menu. For more information, see the section on the MENU utility later in this chapter.

  • Page 58: Formatting Diskettes With One Diskette Drive (No Hard Disk)

    When you see the A> prompt, type FORMAT B : and press see this prompt: Insert diskette for drive B: and strike ENTER when ready Insert the diskette you want to format into drive B and press When the diskette is formatted, you see this message: Format complete 730112 bytes total disk space 730112 bytes available on disk...

  • Page 59: Copying Data

    Copying Data It’s very important to keep backup diskettes containing copies of the files you create. You can copy data and program files several ways: You can use the DISKCOPY command to make an exact duplicate of a diskette. You can use the COPY command to copy individual files. You can use the BACKUP command to back up the files on a hard disk or diskette in a compressed format.
  • Page 60 At the A > prompt, type the following and press DISKCOPY A: B: MS-DOS prompts you to insert your diskettes: Insert SOURCE Insert TARGET diskette in drive B: Press any key when ready . . . Insert the diskette you want to copy from (the source) into drive A and the diskette you want to copy to (the target) into drive B.

  • Page 61: Using The Copy Command

    Insert the diskette you want to copy from (the source) in the diskette drive and press any key. DISKCOPY starts to copy the contents of the diskette to the computer’s memory. When the memory is full, the screen displays this message: Insert TARGET diskette in drive A: Press any key when ready .
  • Page 62 A few simple rules apply when copying files: You must tell MS-DOS where to find the source file and where to store the target file. You cannot create a new file with the same name and in the same directory as an existing file. If an existing file on the target diskette or directory has the same name as the file you are copying from, the copy automatically replaces the existing file.

  • Page 63: Using The Backup Command

    For example, to copy all the files on the diskette in drive A to the diskette in drive B, type the following and press C O P Y A : * . * B : To copy all files with names that begin with the four letters MEMO and end with any single character, type the following and press COPY A:MEMO? B: Another task you can perform with the COPY command is to combine a...

  • Page 64: Using The Epson Help Utility

    See your MS-DOS manual for complete instructions on using BACKUP Using the Epson HELP Utility The Epson HELP utility provides on-line information on MS-DOS commands. You can use HELP in one of two ways: You can type HELP at the command prompt and press the HELP menu.
  • Page 65 If there is more than one page of information about the command you selected, you see the prompt PgUp at the top of the screen. Press the key to display the rest of the text. PgUp To return to the HELP menu, press the the HELP utility.

  • Page 66: Using The Epson Menu Utility

    Using the Epson MENU Utility Your Equity Ie comes with a utility by Epson called the MENU utility. With this program you can display a menu of utilities and select the one you need. MENU is easy to use because it lets you execute several commands without having to remember the exact format for each command.

  • Page 67: Running Menu From A Diskette

    Running MENU from a diskette If you are running the MENU utility from a diskette rather than a hard disk, when you select a specific operation the screen displays a message similar to this: MODE.COM is not on the current disk or PATH Press any key to continue...

  • Page 68: Using The Xtree Utility

    EnterDOS Command Using the XTREE Utility Epson has included the XTREE program with MS-DOS to make it easier for you to manage files and run other MS-DOS programs. XTREE is fast and easy to use. It lets you do the work of many MS-DOS commands using a convenient menu format, and provides several features not available elsewhere in MS-DOS.

  • Page 69: Running Xtree

    Make new directories, rename directories, delete empty directories, and change from one directory to another. Display data in both ASCII and hexadecimal format. Display how much space is available on your disks. Running XTREE the Startup/Operating 1 diskette in drive A. Type XTRFE at the command prompt and press Enter.

  • Page 70: Cautions

    key commands execute additional XTREE commands. Press the to display the ALT DIR COMMANDS or ALT FILE COMMANDS. These commands appear on the line where the DIR COMMANDS or FILE COMMANDS normally appear. To execute an key and press the highlighted letter of the command name. Function keys control XTREE itself.

  • Page 71: Creating An Autoexec.bat File

    you load MS-DOS, it automatically looks for this file. If MS-DOS finds an AUTOEXEC.BAT file in the root directory, it executes the commands in that file. Here are some suggestions for commands you can include in an AUTOEXEC.BAT file: Modify the PATH command to include the directories containing software programs you commonly use.
  • Page 72 The MS-DOS COPY command provides an easy way to create an AUTOEXEC.BAT file. To create an AUTOEXEC.BAT file using this command, follow the instructions below for your computer model. If you have a hard disk: At the MS-DOS command prompt, type the following and press COPY CON: C:\AUTOEXEC.BAT Type the commands you want to include in the file exactly as you want MS-DOS to execute them.
  • Page 73 4-26 Using MS-DOS with Your Equity Ie...

  • Page 74: Installing Option Cards

    Equity Ie has a hard disk, its controller card may occupy one slot. You can buy option cards from Epson as well as other vendors. Multi- function cards that allow you to add several features using only one option card slot are also available.
  • Page 75 The top cover is secured by three screws along the top of the back panel and two screws on each side of the main unit. Remove the screws and put them in a safe place. Now turn the main unit around so the front panel faces you. Grasp the cover and pull it toward you, away from the back of the computer.

  • Page 76: Installing An Option Card

    Installing an Option Card The Equity Ie uses 8-bit option cards. These cards fit in the slots only one way, but be sure to examine the card first and follow the instructions closely. The Equity Ie has four option slots. If you have a hard disk, its controller card may occupy one slot, as in the illustration below: Decide which option slot you want to use.
  • Page 77 Unpack the option card and adjust any of its switches or jumper connections, if necessary. (For example, a memory expansion card usually contains DIP switches that you need to set.) See the instructions that come with the option card. When you handle the card, be careful not to touch any of the contacts on the circuit board, especially the gold-edged connections.

  • Page 78: Removing An Option Card

    Insert the card in the slot as shown below. Make sure the card’s mounting bracket aligns with the slot at the back of the computer. Once the connector pins are sitting in the connector slot, push the card firmly (but carefully) to fully insert it. Secure the mounting bracket on the end of the card to the back of the computer with the retaining screw you removed earlier.

  • Page 79: Replacing The Cover

    Replacing the Cover After you install (or remove) an option card, follow these steps to replace the main unit’s cover: With the front of the computer facing you, slide on the top cover as shown in the following illustration. Slide the cover straight back until the front panel is flush with the diskette drive.

  • Page 80: B Troubleshooting

    If the suggestions in this chapter or Appendix D do not solve the problem, contact your Epson dealer. Your dealer may be able to solve the problem; if not, he or she can refer you to an Authorized Epson Customer Care Center.

  • Page 81: The Computer Locks Up

    If the electrical outlet is working and all the connections are secure but your computer still won’t start, see your Epson dealer. The Computer Locks Up If the computer does not respond to your keyboard entries, try the following: Wait a few seconds.

  • Page 82: Diskette Problems

    Remove any diskettes from your disk drives and turn off the computer and the monitor. Check that the monitor’s power cord is securely connected to the monitor, and that the monitor cable is connected to both the monitor and the computer’s back panel. Then turn both power switches back on.

  • Page 83: Hard Disk Problems

    Hard Disk Problems If you have problems with your hard disk when you first start to use it, make sure it is properly set up. Try the following steps: MS-DOS system files. Turn off your computer and insert your working copy of the Startup/Operating 1 diskette into drive A.

  • Page 84: Software Problems

    See Appendix F for details. You may want to contact your dealer before using this option. If none of the above procedures work, contact your Epson dealer or have an Authorized Epson Customer Care Center check your hard disk.

  • Page 85: Printer Problems

    Printer Problems Your printer manual describes solutions for most potential printer problems. If your printer does not work correctly immediately after you install it, check that the printer has power and is properly connected to the computer. Your printer manual provides detailed instructions on how to connect your printer to the computer.

  • Page 86: Power-On Diagnostics

    Appendix C Power-On Diagnostics The built-in permanent memory in your computer (ROM) contains a series of diagnostics programs. These programs are run automatically by the system every time you turn on the power. The diagnostics programs check the internal devices such as the ROM, RAM, keyboard controller, timer, video controller, diskette driver, and hard disk controller.

  • Page 87: Clock And Cmos Ram Check

    Clock and CMOS RAM Check When the system device check is completed successfully, the computer checks the timer and CMOS RAM. If the system clock has not been set, this message is displayed: 161-Set date and time RAM Check The computer now begins to check the RAM installed in the main system board.

  • Page 88: Parallel Port Check

    Parallel Port Check Next, the computer checks its parallel port. If an error is found, you see this message: 901-Parallel port error Serial Port Check The computer then checks its serial port. If an error is found, you see this message: 1101-Serial port error Diskette Drive Seek Check...

  • Page 89: Performing System Diagnostics

    Appendix D Performing System Diagnostics This appendix describes how to check the operation of the main unit and peripheral devices of your Equity Ie. You check these devices using the diagnostics program on your Reference diskette. Run the diagnostics program if you are not sure whether a device is performing correctly.

  • Page 90: Modifying The Device List

    The screen looks something like this: DEVICE LIST System board Memory Keyboard Video Floppy disk drives and controller Math coprocessor (8087) Parallel port (printer interface) Serial port (us-232~ port) 11 - 12 - Alternate serial port Dot-matrix printer 14 - Hard disk drives and controller 17 - 21 -...

  • Page 91: Selecting A Test

    When you are finished, press 0 and LIST for a final check. If the list is correct, press Y and ready to select a test. Selecting a Test LIST, From the DEVICE the device, and then press Number of times to test device Run test one time - Run test multiple times O- Exit...

  • Page 92: Resuming From An Error

    Resuming From an Error If an error occurs during a test, the test stops at that point and an error code and error message are displayed. If you want to record the problem, you can print out the message on your printer. You see this prompt: Do you want a printout of the error (Y/N)? To continue without printing the error message, press...

  • Page 93: System Board Check

    CPU instruction set is functioning correctly. If an error occurs, write down the error message, or print it out, and contact your Epson dealer. Attempting to correct system board errors yourself may violate your warranty agreement. Memory Check Use this option to check the computer’s built-in memory.

  • Page 94: Keyboard Check

    If an error message appears, write it down or print it out so you can contact your Epson dealer when you complete the test. If no errors are detected, the screen displays a diagram showing two types of...

  • Page 95: Video Check

    If an error occurs during any of these tests, write down the error message, or print it out, and then contact your Epson dealer. When you are finished with the test, press 0 and Video RAM check...
  • Page 96 If they are still incorrect, or if any of the other attributes are not correct, press Enter. Contact your Epson dealer to verify any monitor problems. Character set check To check your 80-column character set, press 3 and then character fonts that are included in the internal character generator are displayed.
  • Page 97 After checking the character fonts, respond to the prompt: the display correct lf the characters displayed match the illustration, press Y and find a problem with the characters on the screen, press display the error message. 400column character set check To check your 40-column character set, press 4 and then character fonts that are included in the internal character generator are displayed.

  • Page 98: 640X200 Graphics Mode Check

    monitor, the screen displays a dark gray, light gray, and black square against a white background. These four colors are Color Set 0. If they are correct, press Y and then Enter. The same pattern is now displayed again. This time, the squares are cyan, white, and magenta on a red background if you have a color monitor, or gray, white, and black on a black background if you have a monochrome monitor.

  • Page 99: 640X480 Graphics Mode Check

    640x480 graphics mode check To check your 640x480 graphics mode, press 7 and then displays three patterned squares like the ones shown below: If the patterns on your screen are clear and distinct, press Y and then If any pattern is not displayed clearly, first check the adjustment of your monitor, and then make sure that both ends of the cable are plugged in firmly.

  • Page 100: Run All Above Checks

    The colored screens are displayed in the order shown below: 1 - Black 2 - Blue 3 - G r e e n - Cyan - Red 6 - Magenta 7 - Brown - White When you get to the last screen, you see this prompt: Is the display correct (Y/N)? If all the colors or shades are correct, press Y and any color is displayed incorrectly, first check the adjustment of your monitor,...

  • Page 101: Sequential Seek Check

    Enter. If any errors occur during the checks, write down the error message and contact your Epson dealer. Always have the diskette drive serviced by your Epson dealer. When you finish running the checks, press 0 and DEVICE LIST menu.

  • Page 102: Random Seek Check

    Random seek check This test is identical to the sequential seek check, except that the seek operation is performed on each track in random order instead of sequential order. Select option 2 from the menu to start this test. Write, read check This test checks the ability of the selected disk drive to read and write data from a diskette.

  • Page 103: Math Coprocessor (8087) Check

    Run all above checks To run all the tests on the menu in sequence, press 4 and then When you choose this option, all checks for the diskette drive(s) and controller are performed automatically in sequential order. Although you do not start each test, you must still supply the appropriate responses to progress from one test to the next.

  • Page 104: Serial Port (Rs-232C Port) Check

    Insert the loop-back connector. Then press Y and The computer checks the port by writing and reading data and control information, and reports errors for any pins that are faulty. Serial Port (RS-232C Port) Check Use this option to test the functions of the primary serial communications (RS-232C) port.

  • Page 105: Alternate Serial Port Check

    Each baud rate is tested in turn, and the display informs you of the progress of the test. If the port does not become ready correctly, a timeout error occurs. If any data received does not match the data sent, a verify error occurs, and the computer reports the transmitted and received data at the time of the error.

  • Page 106: Dot-Matrix Printer Check

    The dot graphics data is sent to the printer using a command (ESC K) compatible with Epson and IBM printers. If this pattern is printed correctly, you. can use the MS-DOS GRAPHICS or GRAPH24 program to print out copies of graphics screens.

  • Page 107: Hard Disk Drives And Controller Check

    Note Even if you run the test for only a short time, your printer may store many characters in its memory. To stop printing, turn the printer off-line. Hard Disk Drives and Controller Check Use this option to test the performance of the hard disk drive installed in your computer.
  • Page 108 Write, read check This check tests the ability of the hard disk drive to read and write data. The test writes to and reads from each sector of the innermost cylinder of the disk, using each head. Note This test destroys all data on the innermost cylinder of the hard disk drive. This cylinder is reserved for diagnostics, however, and is never used for storage by MS-DOS.

  • Page 109: Run All Above Tests

    The cylinder number counts down to 0. At the end of the test, you see a table showing the results of the test. For example, for a 20MB hard disk with three bad tracks, you see: BAD TRACKS READ ERROR TRACKS GOOD TRACKS Press to return to the menu after viewing the table.

  • Page 110: Parallel Port (On Video Adapter) Check

    Parallel Port (on Video Adapter) Check Use this option to test the functions of a parallel port on a video adapter card. To perform the test you must insert a special loop-back connector into the port so that the computer can check the port’s individual pins. This test is identical to the check for the primary parallel port.
  • Page 111 Error code -..-. __-_ Video-adapter % d’sp’ay Floppy disk drives and controller Math coprocessor Parallel port Sf;ifl port 1101 1102 1103 Alt. serial port 1201 1201 1202 1203 Dot-matrix printer 1401 Hard disk drive and controller 1701 1702 1703 Performing System Diagnostics Messaoe “‘----u- V-RAM ERROR...

  • Page 112: E Specifications

    Appendix E Specifications Main Unit Main memory Math coprocessor Interfaces Parallel interface Serial interface Speaker interface Option slots Keyboard Layout Function keys Specifications 8086 microprocessor, 8 MHz or 10 MHz clock rate, switchable without rebooting 640KB 8087-1 microprocessor (optional) for use at 10 MHz Standard 8-bit parallel, 25-pin, D-type female connector...

  • Page 113: Mass Storage

    Non-operating range: 10% to 90%, non-condensing 13.76 inches 15.94 inches 4.5 inches 18.8 lbs (single-diskette system, including keyboard) MCGA video controller, supports Epson- and IBM- compatible VGA color and VGA monochrome monitors -4” to 140” F (-20” to 60” C)

  • Page 114: Formatting A User-Installed Hard Disk

    Appendix F Formatting a User-installed Hard Disk This appendix describes how you check and format a hard disk that you are installing in your computer. You can also use this program on a hard disk if you are having serious problems. This program performs a hardware-level format of the hard disk.

  • Page 115: Formatting And Checking Options

    If you are installing a hard disk drive and want to format it using this program, choose option 1, Conditional format (Normal). After formatting, you need to partition and format the hard disk for your operating system(s). Refer to your MS-DOS manual for details on partitioning and formatting your hard disk for MS-DOS.

  • Page 116: Conditional Format (Normal

    The other two options test a hard disk for problems. Use option 3, Destructive surface analysis, to test the entire disk and update the bad track table. Because this option writes data to the disk as well as reads it, all data on any track that produces an error is destroyed.
  • Page 117 The program starts to scan the disk to find all tracks flagged as bad, starting from the innermost cylinder of the disk. During the scan, you see the number of the cylinder being checked. For example, if you have a 20MB hard disk, the first messages you see are: Format Hard Disk Scanning for flagged bad tracks...
  • Page 118 If you cancel formatting at either stage, you see these messages: Format cancelled. Press ENTER to return to the menu. If you continue with formatting, you see: Now formatting . . . When formatting is complete, any bad tracks are flagged, and you see a series of messages like these: Format finished.

  • Page 119: Unconditional Format

    If you want to format the disk after receiving this error message, do the following: If the drive is not formatted, run the Unconditional format (option 2) and enter any tracks you know are bad in the Bad Track Table. (See “Unconditional Format”...
  • Page 120 The next screen allows you to enter the list of bad tracks. The empty bad track table looks like this: Bad Track Table Cylinder Head Cylinder Head TABLE EMPTY: A = Add track, F = Finish editing Enter command letter: To add a bad track, follow these steps: Press You see this prompt:...

  • Page 121: Destructive Surface Analysis

    If you make a mistake, move the cursor block to the incorrect track, and press C to alter the track data. Or you can press the table. Change the track data just like you add a track. When you have finished editing, check the entries in the table once more. When you are sure the table is correct, press F.
  • Page 122 When the analysis is complete, the program displays a complete report on the status of the disk, including a table of unflagged tracks that produced write, read errors. For a 20MB hard disk with one flagged bad track, you see this display: Analysis finished.

  • Page 123: Non-Destructive Surface Analysis

    Non-destructive Surface Analysis The Nondestructive surface analysis is slightly simpler than the Destructive surface analysis described in the previous section. This option does not destroy any data, and can safely be used to check the condition of your hard disk drives. However, this test will not flag any bad tracks that are detected. To start the test, press 4 and then Analyze Hard Disk Read/Verify check for all tracks...

  • Page 124: Glossary

    Glossary 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. An ASCII character occupies one byte of storage. Files transmitted in ASCII code can be used by many different computers, printers, and programs.

  • Page 125: Command Prompt

    Boot To load a program or an operating system into the computer’s memory. A sequence or group of eight bits that represents one character. Character Anything that can print in a single space on the page or the screen. Includes numbers, letters, punctuation marks, and graphic symbols. CMOS Complementary Metal-Oxide Semiconductor.
  • Page 126 C P U Central Processing Unit. The processor inside your computer that interprets instructions, performs tasks, keeps track of stored data, and controls all input and output operations. Current directory The directory you are working in. Cursor The highlighted marker that shows your position on the screen and moves as you enter and delete data.

  • Page 127: Dip Switches

    DIP switches Small switches on a piece of hardware such as an option card or a printer. DIP switch settings control various functions and provide a system with information about itself. DIP stands for Dual In-line Package. Directory A list of files stored on a disk or on part of a disk. Disk The collective term for diskettes and hard disks.

  • Page 128: Floppy Disk

    File A group of related pieces of information called records, or entries, stored together on a disk. Text files consist of words and sentences. Program files consist of code and are used by computers to interpret and carry out instructions. Filename A name of up to eight characters that MS-DOS uses to identify a file.
  • Page 129 High-density A type of diskette format that allows you to store more data than normal. The Equity Ie uses double-density diskettes only; high-density diskettes cannot be used in the Equity Ie diskette drives. Input/output (I/O) port See Port. Interface A hardware or software connection that is used to transmit data between equipment or programs.

  • Page 130: Monochrome Monitor

    Megahertz (MHz) A unit used to measure oscillation frequency of a computer’s internal timing clock. One megahertz is one million cycles per second. The Equity Ie computer operates at 8 or 10 MHz. Memory The area where the computer stores data. Memory contents can be permanent (ROM) or temporary (RAM).

  • Page 131: Operating System

    Operating system A collection of programs that allow a computer to control its operations. The operating system determines how programs run on the computer and supervises all input and output. Your computer comes with MS-DOS, the operating system by Microsoft. Option card A circuit board that you install inside your computer’s main unit to provide additional capabilities, such as more memory or an internal...
  • Page 132 Program A disk file that contains coded instructions telling a computer what to do and how to do it. Prompt A message displayed on the computer screen that tells you what action you need to perform next. Random Access Memory. The portion of the computer’s memory used to run programs and store data while you work.
  • Page 133 RS-232C A standard serial interface. You can easily connect an RS-232C compatible device to your computer. Sector A contiguous section of a disk track that provides an address at which the computer can access data. Self test The diagnostics procedure the computer performs to check its hardware whenever you turn on or reset the computer.
  • Page 134 Video Graphics Array. A type of high-resolution color monitor that can display monochrome text and graphics at 720 x 400 resolution, 16-color graphics at 640 x 480 resolution, or 256-color graphics at 320 x 200 resolution. See also MCGA. Wildcard A character that represents an unknown character or group of characters.

  • Page 135: Index

    Index AC inlet, 1-9 AC outlet, 1-5, 1-9 Adjusting keyboard legs, 1-4 Application program, 3-3, 4-4, 4-7, B-5 ASCII codes, 4-22, D-18 Asynchronous, E-1 Back panel, back foldout Back panel screws, A-2 BACKUP program, 4-12, 4-16-17 Backup copies, 1-14-16, 3-7, 4-12-17 Booting MS-DOS, 1-11--13, 2-6 See also Resetting Brightness control, monitor, 1-12, B-2...
  • Page 136 Computer, moving, 3-11 resetting, 3-10, B-2, B-5 setting up, 1-1-16 turning off, 3-11 Configuration, 1 Connecting, keyboard, 1-3-4 power cord, 1-8-9 printer, 1-5-8 monitor, 1-4-5 Connector, monitor, 1-5 option card, A-4-5 printer, 1-5-8 slot, A-4-5 Contrast control, monitor, 1-12, B-2 Control code, Ctrl, 2-4 Ctrl-AH-Del, 3-10...
  • Page 137 Data diskette, copying, 3-7, 4-12-17 Data, copying, 3-7, 4-12-17 protecting, 3-7, 4-23 D connector, 1-5, 1-6, 1-8, E-l Diagnostics, clock and CMOS RAM check, C-2 diskette drive check, C-3, D-12-15 dot-matrix printer check, D-18-19 error codes and messages, D-22-23 exiting program, D-22 hard disk check, C-3, D-19-21 hard disk formatting, F-1-10 keyboard check, C-2, D-6...
  • Page 138 choosing, 3-4-5 copying, 3-7, 4-12-17 diagnostics, D-12-15 double-density, 3-4 double-sided, 3-4 formatting, 3-5, 4-9-11 inserting, 3-6 problems, B-3 removing, 3-6 storing, 3-5 system, 1-14-15 using, 3-4-8 write-protecting, 3-7 Disk operating system. See MS-DOS DOS. See MS-DOS Dot-matrix printer. See Printer Double-density diskettes, 3-4 Double-sided diskettes, 3-4 Drive.
  • Page 139 Hard disk, bad tracks, F-2-10 backing up, 2-1, 3-9, 4-12, 4-16-17 caring for, 3-9 conditional format, F-2-6 controller card, A-3, D-19-21 diagnostics check, C-3, D-19-21 flagged tracks, F-2-10 formatting, 2-3-5, B-5-6 hardware format, F-1-10 indicator light, 3-9 partitioning, 2-2-3, B-5-6 preparing for use, 2-l-6 problems, B-4-5, D-19-21, F-l-9 protecting data, 3-9, 4-12, 4-16-17...
  • Page 140 Keyboard, angle, adjusting, 1-4 cable, 1-3 connecting, 1-3-4 diagnostics check, C-2, D-6 function keys, 3-1-2 keys, 3-1-2 layout, 3-1, D-6 legs, 3-1 port, 1-3 special keys, 3-2 specifications, E- 1 Legs, keyboard, 1-4 Loading operating system, 1-11-13, 2-6 Magnetic surface of disk, 34-5, 3-9 Main unit, cover, removing, A-1-2 cover, replacing, A-6...
  • Page 141 MS-DOS, booting, 1-13, 2-6 copying, 1-14-16, 2-3-5, 4-12-17 command prompt, 1-13, 2-6, 4-24 commands, 4-1, 4-2-3 loading, 1-13, 2-6 operating system, 4-1 preparing hard disk, 2-1-6 system diskette, 1-10-11, 1-13-16, Operating system. See MS-DOS Option card, connector, A-4-5 connector slot, A-4-5 installing, A-l-6 problems, B-6 removing, A-5...
  • Page 142 Power, button, 1-11-12, 3-11, B-1-2 cord, 1-8--9, B-2 inlet, 1-9 light, 3-3 requirements, 1-3, E-2 source, 1-3 supply, 1-3, E-2 turning off, 3-11 turning on, 1-11--12 Power cord, connecting, 1-8-9 Power-on diagnostics, C-l-3 Preparing hard disk, 2-1-6, F-l Printer, cable, 1-5-8 clips, 1-7 connecting, 1-5-8 connector, 1-5-8...
  • Page 143 Safety rules, 1-11 SELECT program, 2-1, 2-3-5 Self test, internal, 1-12, C-1-3 Serial, cable, l-7-8 diagnostics check, C-3, D-16-17 interface, 1-7-8, D-16-17, E-1 port, 1-7-8, D-16-17, E-1 printer, 1-7-8, D-16-17, E-1 RS-232C port, 1-7-8, D-16-17, E-1 Setting up system, 1-1 Single diskette drive, using, 3-8 Slots, option, A-3-5 Software,...
  • Page 144 Unpacking Equity Ie, 1-1-2 Using diskettes, 3-4-8 Using Equity Ie, 3-1-11 Using hard disk drive, 3-8-9 Using single diskette drive, 3-8 Video monitor. See Monitor Video diagnostics check, C-2, D-7-12 Write-protecting diskettes, 3-7 Write-protect switch, 3-7 IN-10 Index...
  • Page 145 Quality of examples and pictures W Quantity of examples and pictures Comments: Name: Title: Company: Address: City: State: Please cut out and mail in. Thank you! EPSON Reader Comment Card Equity Ie User’s Guide Excellent Good Zip: Fair Poor Printed in Korea...
  • Page 146 MS 4-1 ----_-____--____-_-_---------------------------------- EPSON America, Inc. 2780 Lomita Blvd. Torrance CA 90505 Fold here Tape here - Do not staple...
  • Page 147 EQLJITYIe la r...

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