Epson ActionPC 5500 User Manual
Epson ActionPC 5500 User Manual

Epson ActionPC 5500 User Manual

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Summary of Contents for Epson ActionPC 5500

  • Page 2 EPSON Connection is a service mark of Epson America, Inc. General notice: Other product names used herein are for identification purposes only and may be trademarks of their respective owners. EPSON disclaims any and all rights in those marks. The Energy Star emblem does not represent EPA endorsement of any product or service.
  • Page 3: Important Safety Instructions

    Important Safety Instructions Read all of these instructions and save them for later reference. Follow all warnings and instructions marked on the computer. Unplug the computer before cleaning. Clean with a damp cloth only. Do not spill liquid on the computer. Do not place the computer on an unstable surface or near a radiator or heat register.
  • Page 4 Importances instructions de sécurité Lire attentivement les instructions suivantes et les conserver pour les consulter en cas de besoin. Observer soigneusement tous les avertissements et directives marqués sur l’ordinateur. Débrancher l'ordinateur avant de le nettoyer. N'utiliser qu’un chiffon Ž humide. Veiller à ne pas renverser de liquides sur l’appareil. Ne pas placer l’ordinateur sur une surface instable ni près d'une Ž...
  • Page 5: Wichtige Sicherheitshinweise

    Wichtige Sicherheitshinweise Bitte lesen Sie diese Sicherheitshinweise, und heben Sie sie zur späteren Verwendung auf. Beachten Sie alle Warnungen und Anweisungen, die auf dem Computer angebracht sind. Ziehen Sie das Netzkabel des Computers vor der Reinigung heraus. Verwenden Sie zur Reinigung nur ein feuchtes Tuch. Achten Sie darauf, daß...
  • Page 6 Ziehen Sie den Computer heraus, und rufen Sie qualifiziertes Ž Wartungspersonal, wenn eine der folgenden Bedingungen auftritt: Das Netzkabel oder der Netzstecker ist beschädigt; Flüssigkeit ist in den Computer eingetreten; der Computer wurde fallengelassen oder das Gehäuse ist beschädigt; der Computer funktioniert nicht ordnungsgemäß...
  • Page 7: Introduction

    Introduction Your new EPSON system that gives you complete access for all your business or home computer needs. And because your computer is plug and play compliant and designed to take advantage of Microsoft ® Windows 95, you’ll be able to use all the latest technology and software.
  • Page 8: Power-Saving Feature

    High-speed, PCI video controller with 32-bit DRAM video interface and 32-bit PCI interface Two PCI ATA-2 compatible IDE interfaces supporting up to four IDE devices, such as hard disk drives and CD-ROM drives (two on each interface) 8KB of internal cache in the processor 512KB or lMB of onboard video memory for resolutions from 640 x 480 True Color™...
  • Page 9: Isa And Pciexpansion Buses

    ISA and PCI Expansion Buses Your computer includes expansion buses for two types of option cards: ISA and PCI. The PCI bus provides extremely fast data transfer (33 MHz) for a high-performance PCI card, such as a high-speed video card. PCI cards use plug and play technology that automatically configures resources used by the card, such as interrupt requests and memory addresses.
  • Page 10: How To Use This Manual

    How to Use This Manual This manual contains the information you need to get the best results from your computer. You don’t have to read everything; see the following chapter summaries to find the sections you need. Chapter 1 provides instructions for setting up your system and connecting peripheral devices such as the monitor and printer.
  • Page 11: Where To Get Help

    EPSON bulletin board service You can call the EPSON bulletin board service (BBS) 24 hours a day at (310) 782-4531. No membership is required. Make sure your communications software is set to 8 data bits with no stop bit, 1 parity bit, and a modem speed up to 28.8 Kbps.
  • Page 12 If you are not currently a member, you are eligible for a free introductory membership as an owner of an EPSON product. This membership entitles you to: An introductory $15 credit on CompuServe Your own user ID and password A complimentary subscription to CompuServe’s monthly publication.
  • Page 13: Table Of Contents

    Contents INTRODUCTION Computer Features . . Power-saving Feature ....ISA and PCIExpansion Buses ....SVGA Feature Connector .
  • Page 14 Setting System Security ......2-13 Determining a Password Type ....2-14 Setting a Password .
  • Page 15 Installing an Option Card ..... . . 4-16 Removing an Option Card.....4-19 Removing the Option Card Connector Board .
  • Page 16 Tested Operating Environments ....Options Available from EPSON ....
  • Page 17: Chapter 1 Setting Up Your System

    Chapter 1 Setting Up Your System This chapter briefly describes how to set up your computer. It includes the following information: Choosing a location Setting the voltage selector switch Connecting system components Turning the computer on and off. Choosing a Location Before you set up your system, choose a convenient location that provides a flat, hard surface.
  • Page 18 Setting the Voltage Selector Switch Your system is powered by a 145 Watt power supply. The power supply input voltage is controlled by a switch on the computer’s back panel that may be set to 115 VAC or 230 VAC. The computer is shipped with the voltage selector switch set to 115 VAC, which is appropriate for line source voltages between 100 and 120 VAC.
  • Page 19: Connecting A Keyboard Or Mouse

    Connecting System Components Use the illustrations below to locate the ports on the back of your system as you connect the keyboard, monitor, printer, and other devices. The icons on the case identify the function of each port. Caution Be sure the power is off before you connect any device to the computer;...
  • Page 20: Connecting A Monitor

    To connect the mouse, insert the connector into the computer’s built-in mouse port so the arrow or mark on the connector faces up. The icon for the mouse is shown at the left. Caution Although the connectors and ports for the mouse and keyboard are physically identical, they cannot be used interchangeably.
  • Page 21: Connecting A Parallel Or Serial Device

    Examine the connector on the monitor cable and line it up with the monitor port on the computer. Then insert the connector into the port. This icon identifies the VGA monitor port. Caution To avoid damaging the connector, be careful not to bend the pins when you insert it.
  • Page 22 Using the parallel (printer) port Follow these steps to connect a parallel device to your computer: 1. Place the parallel device and the computer so that the backs are facing you. 2. Align the connector end of the parallel cable with the printer port and plug it in.
  • Page 23: Connecting The Power Cord

    Using the serial ports If you have a printer, a modem, or other device with a serial interface, you can connect it to one of the serial (RS-232C) ports. Make sure you have a cable compatible with a DB-9P connector. To connect a serial device, insert the connector into either of the two serial ports, which are marked with the icons shown at the left.
  • Page 24: Turning On The Computer

    Turning On the Computer Once you set up your system, you’re ready to turn on the power. Refer to the illustration below to locate the button and other features on the front panel. Caution Before you turn on your system, be sure to read "Important Safety Instructions”...
  • Page 25: Turning Off The Computer

    The power performs its power-on diagnostics, which are a series of checks to make sure everything is working correctly. During diagnostics, if you see a message telling you to press to run the SETUP program, ignore this prompt for now. You see the first screen of your operating system.
  • Page 26 1-10 Setting Up Your System...
  • Page 27: Chapter 2 Running Setup And Installing Drivers

    Chapter 2 Running SETUP and Installing Drivers If you reconfigure your system or add options, you must use a configuration program called SETUP, which is contained within your system’s BIOS. SETUP lets you change the settings for your hardware configuration, security options, and power-saving features.
  • Page 28 Exiting SETUP Installing system drivers. Starting the SETUP Program To start the SETUP program, turn on the computer and immediately press and release the power-on diagnostics and displays the main SETUP screen. This screen contains four windows from which you can select icons that allow you to perform SETUP functions.
  • Page 29 The Utility window provides the following icons: Detect Master lets you auto detect the parameters of the master hard disk drive (see page 2-12) DetectSlave lets you auto detect parameters for a slave hard disk drive (see page 2-12) Color Set lets you choose colors you want to use for your SETUP utility (see page 2-13).
  • Page 30: Setup Function Keys

    SETUP Function Keys You can use the mouse to click on a selection to highlight it and double-click on a selection to open it. You can also use the keys in the following table to perform SETUP operations. SETUP function keys Press Move the cursor to the next or previous icon or option setting Move the cursor to the next window...
  • Page 31 The following table describes Standard options. Standard Options Option Settings day, month and date, Date y e a r Time hh:mm:ss ** Floppy A Not Installed 5¼” 360 KB 5¼” 1.2 MB KB 3½" 1.44 MB 3½”* 2.88 MB 3½” Floppy B Not Installed * 5¼”...
  • Page 32: Setting Advanced Options

    Setting Advanced Options When you select the Advanced icon from the Setup window, the Advanced Setup window appears. Advanced Setup lets you define parameters such as your video display type, mouse support, and system boot sequence. The following table describes Advanced options. Advanced options Option Quick Boot...
  • Page 33 Advanced options (continued) Option Settings System Boot Up C:, A: Sequence A:, C: * System Boot Up CPU Speed High * External Cache Disabled * Enabled Internal Cache Disabled Enabled * Password Setup * Checking Always Video Shadow Disabled C000, 32K Enabled * Shadow Disabled *...
  • Page 34: Setting Advanced Ide Drive Options

    Setting Advanced IDE Drive Options When you select the Adv you see the Advanced HDD Setup window. Advanced HDD Setup lets you define the types of IDE drives that are connected to the primary and secondary IDE interfaces in your system. The Advanced HDD Setup window displays the parameters that were detected by auto detection.
  • Page 35: Setting Power Management Options

    4. If you have a drive connected to the secondary IDE interface, select the Number of option. 5. Select one of the following options to correspond to the drives you have connected to the secondary IDE interface. Option None HDD (+CD) IDE CD 2 HDDs If you select something other than...
  • Page 36 Power Management options (continued) Option Doze Mode Timeout Sleep Mode Timeout Suspend Mode Timeout Monitor VGA Activity IDE Drive Power Down 2-10 Running SETUP and Installing Drivers Description Settings Sets the time period of system (CPU) 15 See* inactivity after which the system enters 30 Sec 1 Min Doze mode...
  • Page 37: Setting Options For Peripheral Controllers

    Setting Options for Peripheral Controllers When you select the Peripheral Setup icon from the Setup window, you see the Peripheral Setup window. Use this window to configure the computer’s integrated peripheral devices (such as the parallel and serial ports) and controllers. To avoid possible configuration problems, it is a good idea to leave these options at their default settings.
  • Page 38 Peripheral options (continued) Option Parallel Port Mode Parallel Extended Mode Internal Speaker Sound * Default setting Defecting Your Hard Disk Drive The Utility window lets you run the auto detection function to identify your hard disk drive parameters. Note It should not be necessary to run auto detection when you are setting up your preconfigured computer.
  • Page 39: Selecting Setup Colors

    To run auto detection, follow these steps: 1. On the Utility window, select the DetectMaster icon, The SETUP program activates auto detection to examine your master hard disk drive and record its parameters. When the process is complete, the system displays the parameters.
  • Page 40: Determining A Password Type

    Determining a Password Type You have the option of creating either a system password or a SETUP password. If you set a system password, the computer prompts you to enter it each time you turn on or reset the computer. If you set a SETUP password, the computer prompts you to enter it each time you run the SETUP program.
  • Page 41: Deleting Your Password

    After you enter the same password a second time, you see the following message: Password is Enabled 5. Press Enter or select If you forget your password, see “Password Problems” in Chapter 6. Deleting Your Password To delete your password, follow these steps: 1.
  • Page 42: Using Setup Defaults

    To enable the anti-virus feature, follow these steps: 1. Select the Anti-Virus icon. 2. Select Enabled. The system displays the following message when it detects an attempt to format any cylinder, head, or sector of any hard disk drive: Format Possible VIRUS: Continue (Y/N) ? The system displays the following message when it detects an attempt to write to the boot sector of the hard disk drive.
  • Page 43: Exiting Setup

    When you select one of these icons from the Default window, a prompt asks you whether or not to load the selected set of values. Select Yes to load the selected values or No to keep your current values. Exiting SETUP To leave SETUP, press corner of the main SETUP screen.
  • Page 44: Installing The Pci Ide Drivers

    Installing the PCI IDE Drivers PCI IDE drivers let you take advantage of the high-speed performance available through your system’s IDE interfaces for hard disk drives and other IDE devices. The PCI IDE Drivers diskette contains drivers for these programs: MS-DOS Windows 3.1 ®...
  • Page 45 The driver files for each of the programs listed above are in their own directory on the diskette. Log onto the directory for each driver you want to install and print out the README file. Read the information in these files for additional instructions on installing and using the PCI IDE drivers.
  • Page 46: Installing Video Drivers

    Be sure that Windows is already installed before you install the video driver for Windows. To obtain drivers for additional applications or new drivers as they become available, contact the EPSON bulletin board service or access the Epson America Forum on CompuServe. 2-20 Running SETUP and Installing Drivers...
  • Page 47: Chapter 3 Using Your Computer

    Chapter 3 Using Your Computer This chapter describes the following operations: Working comfortably Backing up your files Using energy wisely Using your power-saving feature Inserting and removing diskettes Stopping a command or program Resetting the computer Using a password Changing the processor speed. Working Comfortably If you spend a lot of time at your computer, you may experience occasional fatigue or discomfort caused by...
  • Page 48: Using The Right Furniture

    Take a few minutes to read this section for suggestions about: Using the right furniture Positioning your monitor Lighting your workspace Using a keyboard and mouse Maintaining good posture and work habits. Using the Right Furniture Selecting a good desk and using the right type of chair can make a big difference in your level of comfort.
  • Page 49 Adjust the height of your chair so when you are using the keyboard or mouse your upper arms are vertical and your forearms and wrists are horizontal. For good circulation, your feet should rest flat on the floor with your lower legs vertical and your knees level with your hips.
  • Page 50: Using The Keyboard And Mouse

    Lighting Your Workspace Appropriate lighting increases your comfort and productivity, and it’s good for your eyes. Arrange your computer and light sources to minimize glare and bright reflections. Position the monitor so that any windows in the room face the sides of the monitor, not the front or back.
  • Page 51: Maintaining Good Posture And Work Habits

    Keep your hands and fingers relaxed when you are typing and try not to press the keys too hard; using too much force creates tension in your hands. Remove your hands from the keyboard when you are not using it and take frequent breaks to stretch your hands and fingers.
  • Page 52: Backing Up Your Files

    Backing Up Your Files To protect your data, you should backup your files often. You should also make backup copies of any diskettes that contain programs and store the copies away from your originals. Using Energy Wisely By purchasing this low-power, Energy Star compliant computer, you join a growing number of users concerned about conserving energy.
  • Page 53 See “Setting Power Management Options” in Chapter 2 for information on setting up these options. The power-saving operations performed by your computer in each of the power-saving modes are summarized in the table below. Power-saving modes Mode Power-saving Doze The processor slows down Sleep The processor speed slows further and the monitor screen goes blank (the monitor is placed in a low...
  • Page 54: Inserting And Removing Diskettes

    If your system was in Suspend mode, it takes a few moments for the monitor to display an image and for the hard disk drive to return to active mode. You’ll hear it start again. It takes a few seconds for the drive to reach its full operating speed and read or write to the disk.
  • Page 55: Stopping A Command Or Program

    When you want to remove the diskette, make sure the drive light is off; then press the release button. Remove the diskette and store it properly. Caution Never remove a diskette, reset the computer, or turn it off while a diskette drive light is on. You could lose data. Also, remove all diskettes before you turn off the computer.
  • Page 56: Resetting The Computer

    Resetting the Computer Occasionally, you may have to clear the computer’s memory without turning it off. You can do this by resetting the computer. For example, if an error occurs and the computer does not respond to your keyboard entries, you can reset it to reload your operating system and try again.
  • Page 57: Using A Password

    Using a Password Using SETUP, you can define a password. (See “Setting a Password in Chapter 2.) You can also specify whether the password is required when you start the system or only when you start SETUP. (See “Setting Advanced Options” in Chapter 2.) If you entered a password using the Password option in SETUP, and you set Password Checking to Always,...
  • Page 58: Changing The Processor Speed

    If you do not remember your password, see “Password Problems” in Chapter 6. Changing the Processor Speed In MS-DOS, your computer’s processor can operate at two speeds: fast (the highest speed of the processor) and slow (8 MHz). At fast speed, the computer performs all tasks faster. The slow speed is available for compatibility with some older programs or copy-protected programs that have specific timing requirements.
  • Page 59: Chapter 4 Installing And Removing Options

    Chapter 4 Installing and Removing Options You can enhance the performance of your computer by adding optional equipment such as option cards, system modules, and video modules, or by upgrading the processor. This chapter describes the following Removing and replacing the computer’s cover Locating internal components Changing the jumper settings Installing and removing SIMMs (single inline memory...
  • Page 60: Removing The Cover

    Your system also supports 128KB or 256KB of external cache memory. If cache memory wasn’t installed for you at the factory and you want to increase your system’s cache memory, contact your Authorized EPSON Servicer for a referral. Do not attempt to install cache chips yourself. Removing the Cover You need to remove the computer’s cover to install any of the...
  • Page 61 Remove the three screws securing the cover, as shown below. Save the screws to secure the cover again when you finish. From the front of the computer, grasp the sides of the cover and pull it straight toward you until it stops, just before it reaches the front of the computer.
  • Page 62: Replacing The Cover

    Ground yourself to the computer by touching the metal surface of the back panel. WARNING Be sure to ground yourself by touching the back panel of the computer every time you remove the cover. If you are not properly grounded, you could generate an electric shock that could damage a component when you touch it.
  • Page 63: Locating The Internal Components

    Locating the Internal Components As you follow the instructions in this chapter, refer to the illustration below to locate the major components inside your computer. Installing and Removing Options...
  • Page 64: Locating System Board Components

    Locating System Board Components The illustration below shows the system board inside your computer. Use this illustration to locate jumpers and drive connectors. Installing and Removing Options...
  • Page 65: Changing The Jumper Settings

    Changing the Jumper Settings The jumpers on the system board are preset to factory default positions, indicated by an asterisk (*) in the tables below. (See the illustration on page 4-6 to locate jumpers.) Use the information in this section to change jumper settings, if necessary.
  • Page 66 CPU type jumper settings Installing and Removing Options...
  • Page 67 CPU voltage jumper settings * Default setting depends on installed processor Cache jumper settings CPU clock jumper settings * Default setting Installing and Removing Options...
  • Page 68: Setting The Jumpers

    Setting the Jumpers A jumper’s setting is determined by where the jumper is placed on the pins. For example, if the desired setting is 1-2, you place the jumper over pins 1 and 2. (The artwork on the system board has a notch next to pin 1 on each set of pins.) The illustration below shows a 3-pin jumper with a 2-3 setting.
  • Page 69: Installing Memory Modules (Simms)

    To change a jumper setting, follow these steps: 1. Refer to the illustration under “Locating System Board Components” on page 4-6 to locate the jumpers. 2. If any option cards are installed in your computer, you may need to remove them to access the jumpers. See “Removing an Option Card"...
  • Page 70 70ns or faster. Be sure all the SIMMs operate at the same speed. Your SIMM sockets may not look exactly like the ones in the illustrations. If you’re not sure how to install SIMMs, contact your Authorized EPSON Servicer for assistance. 4-12 Installing and Removing Options...
  • Page 71: Inserting Simms

    Inserting SIMMs Make sure the computer is turned off and the cover is off. Then follow these steps to install SIMMs: 1. Refer to the illustration under “Locating the Internal Components” on page 4-5 to locate the SIMM sockets. 2. Remove any option cards that may be blocking your access to the SIMM sockets.
  • Page 72 4. Push the SIMM into the socket until it is seated firmly in the slot. Then tilt it upright, as shown below, guiding the hole at each end of the SIMM over the retaining post at each end of the SIMM socket. If it does not go in smoothly, do not force it;...
  • Page 73: Removing Simms

    SIMMs Removing If you need to remove SIMMs from your computer (to install different ones, for example), follow the steps below: 1. Use the illustration under “Locating the Internal Components” on page 4-5 to locate the SIMM sockets in the corner of the system board.
  • Page 74: Installing An Option Card

    Installing an Option Card This section explains how to install option cards in your computer. Your computer has four option slots; the three large slots are ISA compatible, and the smaller slot is PCI compatible. Follow these guidelines when installing option cards: Make sure you know whether the card you are installing is an ISA card or a PCI card, so you can install it in the correct type of slot.
  • Page 75 If you are installing a high-resolution graphics adapter card, follow the instructions below to install the adapter card; then see “Using the SVGA Feature Connector” on page 4-23 to connect the card to the SVGA feature connector on the system board. Caution Before you install any option cards in your system, make sure that all the cards together do not draw more current...
  • Page 76 Hold the card along the top corners and guide it toward the slot, as shown below. Once the connectors reach the slot, push the card in firmly (but carefully) to insert it fully. You should feel the card fit into place. If it does not go in smoothly, do not force it; pull the card all the way out and try again.
  • Page 77: Removing An Option Card

    Removing an Option Card You may need to remove an option card if you no longer need it or if you need to access components on the system board. Refer to the illustrations under “Installing an Option Card on page 4-16 as you follow these steps: 1.
  • Page 78: Replacing The Option Card Connector Board

    2. Remove the retaining screw securing the bracket on the option card connector board to the power supply. Pull the board straight up and out of its socket and set it aside. Replacing the Option Card Connector Board When you are ready to replace the option card connector board, refer to the illustration in the previous section as you follow these steps: 1.
  • Page 79: Adding Video Memory

    Note that your video memory sockets may not look exactly like the ones in the illustration. If you’re not sure how to install video memory chips, contact your Authorized EPSON Servicer for assistance. Follow these steps to install video memory: 1.
  • Page 80 Position the chip over the socket and align the notch in the chip’s corner with the notch in the corner of the socket, as shown below. 4. Gently press the chip into the socket; then push down firmly on both ends to make sure it is well-seated. Repeat steps 3 and 4 to install another chip.
  • Page 81: Using The Svga Feature Connector

    Using the SVGA Feature Connector Your computer includes an alternate SVGA interface (feature connector) on the system board. If you install a high-resolution graphics or full-motion, multimedia adapter card in one of the computer’s option slots, this connector allows you to access the standard SVGA signals provided by your system circuitry.
  • Page 82: Upgrading The Processor

    Appendix A for a list of compatible processors. If you’re not sure how to install a processor, contact your Authorized EPSON Servicer for assistance. Follow these steps to replace a processor: 1. Use the illustration under “Locating System Board Components”...
  • Page 83 Remove the replacement processor from its package and inspect the pins. If they are bent, do not install the processor. Contact your vendor for a new one. Position the processor over the socket, aligning the notched corner with the extra hole on the socket, as shown below. Caution If you install the processor in the wrong orientation, you may damage it and void your warranty.
  • Page 84: Post-Installation Procedures

    Secure the processor by pressing the ZIF handle back to the closed position. Change the settings of the jumpers so that they are correct for the type of processor you installed. (See the “CPU type jumper settings” table on page 4-8.) You may also need to change the setting of jumpers JP24 and JP25 to match the processor clock speed.
  • Page 85: Chapter 5 Installing And Removing Drives

    Chapter 5 Installing and Removing Drives Your computer can hold up to three drives in two externally accessible drive bays and one internal drive bay. Your system may have drives installed in one or more of these drive bays. You can remove existing drives and install a variety of devices, such as hard disk drives, diskette drives, tape drives, CD-ROM drives, PCMCIA card readers, optical drives, and other mass storage devices.
  • Page 86: Setting The Ide Device Jumpers

    Setting the IDE Device Jumpers Before you install any IDE device, be sure to check its jumper settings. The jumpers indicate the master and slave configuration of devices connected to both of the IDE interfaces. If you have two hard disk drives, the one that contains your operating system must be configured master, and the other must be configured as the slave.
  • Page 87: Installing A Hard Disk Drive In The Internal Bay

    Installing a Hard Disk Drive in the Internal Bay This section contains instructions for installing a hard disk in the internal drive bay. It includes information on installing the hard disk drive and connecting the cables. Installing the Hard Disk Drive To install the hard disk drive, you first need to attach it to the mounting plate in the internal drive bay.
  • Page 88 2. Turn the hard disk drive so the components faceup and the connectors face left. Then place the mounting plate on the hard disk drive and align the four holes in the plate with the four holes in the drive, as shown below. The bracket on the mounting plate should be opposite the drive connectors.
  • Page 89 4. Hold the drive so the mounting plate faces the externally accessible drive bays and the connectors face the back of the computer, as shown below. The two tabs at the bottom of the mounting plate should be just above the two slots in the computer case. Installing and Removing Drives...
  • Page 90 Lower the tabs into the corresponding slots in the computer case. Slide the drive in the direction of the arrow, until the hole in the bracket is aligned with the hole on top of the externally accessible drive bays. Secure the mounting plate with the flathead screw provided. 5-6 Installing and Removing Drives...
  • Page 91: Connecting The Cables

    Connecting the Cables To connect the hard disk drive to the computer, you need to connect two cables: the IDE drive ribbon cable and a power supply cable. Follow the steps below to connect the cables: 1. Locate one of the IDE drive ribbon cables that are connected to the IDE interfaces on the system board.
  • Page 92 Identify pin 1 on the drive (you may need to turn it over so you can see the artwork on the circuit board); then position the connector so the red wire is aligned with pin 1. 4. Make sure the holes in the cable connector fit over all the pins in the hard disk drive connector;...
  • Page 93 one of the power supply cables that lead from the 5. Locate power supply. (They have multicolored wires and a plastic connector on the end.) 6. Position the power supply cable connector so that its notched corners line up with the notched corners of the power supply connector on the hard disk drive.
  • Page 94: Removing A Hard Disk Drive From The Internal Bay

    Removing a Hard Disk Drive from the Internal Bay You may need to remove a hard disk drive for service or replacement. Caution Before you remove a hard disk drive, make sure you have backup copies of all your files and programs. Follow these steps to remove a hard disk drive from the internal drive bay: 1.
  • Page 95 2. Remove the retaining screw securing the hard disk drive and mounting plate to the externally accessible drive bays. Then slide the hard disk drive and mounting plate in the direction of the arrow, shown below, and lift them out of the computer.
  • Page 96: Installing A Drive In An Externally Accessible Bay

    A table in Appendix A lists the master and slave jumper settings for high-capacity, EPSON-qualified, IDE hard disk drives. If you need more information, see the documentation that came with your drive or contact the manufacturer.
  • Page 97: Installing The Drive

    2. As shown below, place a mounting frame on one side of the drive and align it so the oval holes in the frame are positioned over the holes in the drive. Then secure the mounting frame to the drive with two screws. Repeat step 2 to attach a mounting frame to the other side of the drive.
  • Page 98 one guiderail to each side of the drive (or each 2. Attach mounting frame, if attached), as shown below. The bracket on the guiderail should be opposite the drive connectors. Be sure the guiderails align with each other. If you are installing a drive in a previously unused bay, you must remove the plastic faceplate that covers the bay.
  • Page 99 Store the faceplate and screws in a safe place; you may want to install it again later. 4. If you are installing a drive in a previously unused bay, you must remove the metal plate that covers the bay. Remove the two screws securing the plate to the front of the computer and remove the plate.
  • Page 100: Connecting The Power Cables

    Align the guiderails on each side of the drive with the notches on each side of the drive bay, as shown below. Slide the drive into the bay as far as it will go. 7. Secure the guiderails to the computer case with the two screws you saved in step 4.
  • Page 101 2. Position the connector on the IDE drive ribbon cable so that the red wire aligns with pin 1 on the drive, which is always the pin nearest the 4-pin power connector. Make sure the holes in the cable connector fit over all the pins;...
  • Page 102 Align the notched corners of the power supply cable connector with the notched corners of the drive’s power connector. Make sure the holes fit over all the pins and then push in the connector. If you are installing a CD-ROM drive, you need to connect the audio cable.
  • Page 103 7. Position the audio cable connector so that the tab faces up and aligns with the notch in the CD-ROM drive’s audio connector. Then push in the connector. If you installed a hard disk drive in one of the externally accessible bays, replace the plastic faceplate, as described on page 5-21, to cover the front of the drive bay.
  • Page 104: Removing A Drive From An Externally Accessible Bay

    Removing a Drive From an Externally Accessible You may need to remove a drive for service or replacement. Caution Before you remove a hard disk drive, make sure you have backup copies of all your files and programs. To remove a drive from an externally accessible drive bay, follow these steps: 1.
  • Page 105 If you are not replacing the drive, replace the metal drive bay cover with the two retaining screws, as shown below. 4. If you are not replacing the drive, you must also replace the plastic faceplate that covers the bay. Secure the faceplate to the inside of the computer’s cover with its two screws, as shown below.
  • Page 106 If you are replacing the drive you removed with another drive, remove the guiderails and screws from the drive and use them to install the other drive as described in “Installing a Drive in a Externally Accessible Bay” on page 5-12. Wrap the drive in its original packing materials and store it in a safe place.
  • Page 107: Chapter 6 Troubleshooting

    Chapter 6 Troubleshooting If you have any problems with your computer, refer to this chapter. You can correct most problems by adjusting a cable connection, repeating a software procedure, or resetting the computer. The troubleshooting suggestions in this chapter are organized in general categories, as listed below.
  • Page 108 Controller problems External cache problems. If the suggestions here do not solve the problem, contact your Authorized EPSON Servicer for help. ldentifying Your System When you request technical assistance, be ready to provide the serial number of your computer, its system BIOS version...
  • Page 109: The Computer Will Not Start

    MS-DOS version: Software versions: CONFIG.SYS: AUTOEXEC.BAT: The Computer Will Not Start The power light is on, but the computer does not start. Place a bootable diskette in drive A and turn on the computer again. Caution If you turn off the computer, always wait at least 20 seconds before turning it back on to prevent damage to its circuitry.
  • Page 110 The computer does not start and the power light is not lit. Make sure the power cord is securely connected to both the AC inlet on the back panel and an electrical outlet. The power cord is securely connected, but the computer still does not start.
  • Page 111: The Computer Does Not Respond

    The Computer Does Not Respond The computer locks up. Wait a few moments; if your computer does not respond after a reasonable length of time, press instructions on your screen. If that doesn’t work, turn the computer off and back on. Note If you press Ctrl Alt Del...
  • Page 112: Keyboard Problems

    Keyboard Problems The screen displays a keyboard error message when you turn on the computer. Make sure the keyboard is securely connected to the keyboard port and not the mouse port. Although these ports look alike, they cannot be used interchangeably. The cursor keys on the numeric keypad do not work properly.
  • Page 113 Disconnect the monitor from the back of the computer. If a white raster screen appears on the monitor, the problem is not in the monitor. The power light is on, but you still do not see anything on the screen. Press a mouse button or a key on the keyboard to see if the monitor or computer is in a power-saving mode.
  • Page 114: Appendix A Specifications

    This appendix describes the following Computer specifications Video resolutions and colors Processor upgrades Drive option information DMA assignments Hardware interrupts System memory map System I / O address map Connector pin assignments Tested operating environments Options available from EPSON. A - 1 Specifications...
  • Page 115: Cpu And Memory

    CPU and Memory 32-bit CPU Power-saving modes System speed Memory R O M Video RAM Shadow RAM Specifications Upgradable 486-class processors, including Pentium OverDrive Energy Star compliant, low-power doze, sleep, and suspend modes for the CPU, hard disk drive, and video signals sent by the computer to the monitor;...
  • Page 116: Controllers

    Cache Math coprocessor Clock/ calendar Controllers PCI Chipset Video Diskette At least 8KB of internal cache in the processor; supports 128 or 256KB of external cache with 32K x 8, 20ns or faster SRAM DIP chips and a 32K x 8 15ns tag chip Math coprocessor built into the processor on all DX and Intel Pentium OverDrive...
  • Page 117: Interfaces

    Hard disk Interfaces Monitor Parallel Serial Keyboard Mouse Specifications Two PCI, ATA-2 compatible two-channel, PCI local bus IDE interfaces on system board support up to four IDE devices (two on each channel); CD-ROM drives cannot be connected to the same channel as hard disk drives;...
  • Page 118: Mass Storage

    Option slots Speaker Storage Mass Diskette drive types Hard disk drive types Other devices Keyboard Mouse Connector card with four 16-bit I/O expansion slots (two are shared); three ISA compatible (8.33 MHz bus speed), one PCI compatible (25/33 MHz bus speed) Internal Internal mount: wide, one-inch high drive...
  • Page 119: Setup Program

    SETUP Program System security Virus protection Power Supply Type Input ranges Maximum output Frequency Cables Option Slot Power Limits Specifications Stored in ROM; accessible by pressing during boot Password available for system boot or for access to SETUP program Detects when an attempt is made to write to the boot sector of a hard disk drive or to format a cylinder, head, or sector of a hard disk drive...
  • Page 120: Physical Characteristics

    Physical Characteristics Environmental Requirements Specifications A-7...
  • Page 121: Video Resolutions And Colors

    Video Resolutions and Colors * Non-interlaced and interlaced ** Interlaced Processor Upgrades The computer’s processor can be upgraded by replacing the existing processor with a faster one. The following table lists supported processors and voltages. Supported processors When you replace the processor, you need to check the settings of a number of jumpers.
  • Page 122: Information For Qualified Hard Disk Drives

    Information for Qualified Hard Disk Drives The following table lists parameters for hard disk drives qualified for use in your computer. Hard disk drive parameters Specifications A - 9...
  • Page 123: Dma Assignments

    IDE hard disk drive jumper settings DMA Assignments A-10 Specifications...
  • Page 124: Hardware Interrupts

    Hardware Interrupts System Memory Map Specifications A - 1 1...
  • Page 125: System I/O Address Map

    System I/O Address Map A-12 Specifications...
  • Page 126: Connector Pin Assignments

    System I/O address map (continued) Connector Pin Assignments Parallel port connector pin assignments (CN1 3) Specifications A - 1 3...
  • Page 127: Tested Operating Environments

    As new environments become available, these also will be tested. Options Available from EPSON Many options for enhancing and supplementing this product are available from EPSON. Call your nearest marketing location for more information about specific options. A-14 Specifications...
  • Page 128: Glossary

    Glossary Address The location where information is stored in a computer’s memory. ATA-2 AT Attachment. A drive interface that provides high speed and high capacity data transfer. BIOS Basic Input/Output System. Routines in ROM (Read Only Memory) that handle the transfer of information in your operating system.
  • Page 129 Controller A processor, interface, port, or adapter that translates data between the CPU and a peripheral device, such as a hard disk, diskette drive, keyboard, or video monitor. Controllers convert data from one format to another, match speeds between devices that operate at different speeds, and isolate peripheral hardware from software.
  • Page 130 Extended Capabilities Port. The parallel port mode in your computer that provides bidirectional signals for the parallel port and includes other enhanced functions. Enhanced Parallel Port. The parallel port mode in your computer that provides bidirectional signals for the parallel port and includes other enhanced functions.
  • Page 131 Integrated Drive Electronics. A type of interface in which the controller is on the drive instead of on a controller card. Interface A physical or software connection used to transmit data between equipment or programs so they can work with each other.
  • Page 132 J u m p e r A small movable plug that connects two pins on a device’s circuit board. Jumpers alter the operation of a particular function. Logical Block Address. A method of accessing large-capacity hard disk drives, which lets you transfer data in blocks instead of individual sectors or clusters.
  • Page 133 Option card A circuit board you can install inside the computer to provide additional capabilities, such as a modem or an additional I/O port. Option cards plug directly into option slots so you don’t have to alter a computer’s circuitry to enhance your system. Parallel An interface that transmits data simultaneously over separate wires in a cable.
  • Page 134 Processor A small CPU on one semiconductor chip. See also R A M Random Access Memory. The area of the computer’s memory used to run programs and store data while you work. All data in RAM is erased when you turn off or reset the computer. Real-time clock A battery-powered clock inside the computer that tracks the time and date, even when the computer is turned off.
  • Page 135 Shadow RAM The system’s ability to copy the contents of the system, video, and external BIOS ROMs into RAM to speed up processing. SIMM Single Inline Memory Module. A small circuit board that contains surface-mounted memory chips. You can add memory modules to the system board to expand your computer’s memory.
  • Page 136 Video adapter card A circuit board that can be installed in one of the computer’s option slots to control the way a monitor displays text and graphics. Write-protect To protect the data on a diskette from being changed by setting the write-protect switch on a 3.5-inch diskette or by placing a write-protect tab over the notch on a 5.25-inch diskette.
  • Page 137 Glossary...
  • Page 138 Index AC inlet, 1-3,1 -7,6-4 AC outlet, 1-5–6, 1-7 Adv HDD icon, 2-8 Advanced icon, 2-6 Altitude requirements, A-7 Anti-virus option, see Virus protection Application programs compatibility, A-14 problems, 6-12–13 requiring slow speed, 3-12 ATA-2 compatible, Intro-2, 2-19, A-4 Auto detection, hard disk drive, 2-12, A-4 AUTOEXEC.BAT file, 6-3 Back panel, 1-3...
  • Page 139 Configuration changing, 2-4 files, 4-26, 6-3, 6-11 program, see SETUP program Connecting system components, 1-3–4, 1-6–7 Connectors DE-9P, 1-7 diskette drive, 4-6, 5-18 game port, 4-6 hard disk drive, 4-6 keyboard, 1-3, A-4 monitor, 1-4–5, A-4 mouse, 1-3–4, A-4 option card, 4-5–6 parallel device, 1-5, A-4, A-13 pin assignments, A-13 printer, 1-3, 1-5–6, A-4, A-13...
  • Page 140 Electronics, see IDE Enhanced Parallel Port, see EPP mode Environmental requirements, A-7 Environments, tested operating, A-14 EPP mode, 2-12, A-4 EPSON bulletin board service, Intro-5 EPSON, contacting, Intro-5–6 Ergonomic tips, 3-l–5 Errors controller, 6-16 diskette drive, 6-8–9 hard disk drive, 6-10–11...
  • Page 141 3-7, 6-10, 6-13, A-2, A-4 suspend mode, 3-6–7 Hardware interrupts, Intro-3, A-11 HDD, see Hard disk drive Heat, 1-1 Height, computer, A-7 Help, EPSON, Intro-5–6 Humidity requirements, 1-1, A-7 4 Index address map, A-12–13 expansion slots, see Option slot problems, 6-16 Icons, back panel, 1-4–7...
  • Page 142 K/B port, see Keyboard Key disk, 3-12, 6-12 Keyboard connecting, 1-3 errors, 6-6 port, 1-3, 4-6, A-4 problems, 6-6 setup option, 2-6 specifications, A-5 using, 3-4 Keypad, numeric, 3-12, 6-6 Num Lock setup option, Keys, SETUP function, 2-4 LEA mode, 2-19 Lighting workspace, 3-4 Lights, see Indicator lights Lithium battery, 2-1, A-3...
  • Page 143 NetWare, A-14 Num Lock setup option, 2-6 Numeric coprocessor, A-3 Numeric keypad, 3-12, 6-6 Online support, Intro-5–6 Operating environments, tested, A-14 Operating system diskette, 6-3 reloading, 3-10 version number, 6-3 Optical drive, 5-1, A-5 Optimal defaults, 2-16 Option cards connector board, 4-5–6, 4-19–21 installing, 4-16 power limits, 6-5, A-6 problems, 6-14–15...
  • Page 144 Power button, 1-8–9 conserving, 3-6 cord, 1-7, 4-2, 4-4 inlet, 1-3, 1-7, 6-4 light, 1-8, 3-12, 6-3–4, 6-7 outlet, 1-5, 1-7 source, 1-2 Power cable, see Cable Power Mgmt icon, 2-9 Power supply cables, 5-16–17 input ranges, A-6 limits, 6-5, A-6 location, 4-5 specifications, 1-2, A-6 voltage selector switch, 1-2...
  • Page 145 (continued) SETUP program power management, 2-9–10 security, 2-13–16 standard options, 2-4–5 starting, 2-2 video, 2-6 Setup window, 2-4–8, 2-10–11 Shadow RAM, A-2 setup options, 2-7 SIMMs configuration, 4-12 installing, 4-11–14 location, 4-5–6 problems, 6-5, 6-15 removing, 4-15 specifications, A-2 Slave drive, see Hard disk drive Sleep mode, 3-7, 6-6–7, 6-10, 6-13, A-2, A-4 setup options, 2-10...
  • Page 146 also VGA monitor, 1-4, see Video Video BIOS, Intro-3 colors, connector, 1-3–5, A-4 controller, Intro-2, 2-20, A-3 drivers, 2-18, 2-20 jumper settings, 4-9 port, 1-3–5, A-4 problems, 6-6–7 resolutions, A-3, A-8 sleep mode, 3-7, 6-6, A-2 SOJ DRAM 4-21 Chips, Video memory, Intro-2 installing 4-21–22 location, 4-5–6...
  • Page 147 10 Index...

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