NEC POWERMATE ES User Manual

A versatile, highly serviceable pc
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A Versatile, Highly Serviceable PC
P
M
ES S
OWER
ATE
ERIES
®
U S E R ' S
G U I D E

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Summary of Contents for NEC POWERMATE ES

  • Page 1 A Versatile, Highly Serviceable PC ES S OWER ERIES ® U S E R ’ S G U I D E...
  • Page 2 NEC is a registered trademark of NEC Corporation. PowerMate and MultiSync are registered trademarks and VistaScan is a trademark of NEC Corporation or one of its subsidiaries. All are used under license by NEC Corporation and/or one or more of its subsidiaries.
  • Page 3: Table Of Contents

    Storage Device Support ..............1-11 Chassis.......................1-12 Speakers ....................1-12 System Overview..................1-13 Hardware...................1-13 Software....................1-14 Preloaded Software ..............1-14 NEC OS Restore CD ..............1-15 NEC Application and Driver CD ..........1-15 Security .....................1-15 2 Setting Up the System Chassis Orientation..................2-2 Cable Connections..................2-2 Startup ......................2-3 Shutdown.....................2-4 Power-Saving Operation ................2-5...
  • Page 4 Main Menu..................3-6 Advanced Menu ..................3-9 Security Menu ...................3-18 Exit Menu..................3-19 FLASH Utility ...................3-19 NEC INFO Center ..................3-20 NEC Application and Driver CD...............3-22 NEC OS Restore CD .................3-23 Intel Processor Serial Number Control Utility...........3-25 System Requirements................3-25 Installation..................3-25 Processor Serial Number..............3-26 Frequently Asked Questions .............3-26 Technical Support ................3-27...
  • Page 5 Expansion Boards..................4-10 Locating Expansion Slots and Connectors........4-10 Removing the Retainer Bar...............4-11 Removing an Expansion Board ............4-12 Installing a Slot Cover ..............4-13 Removing a Slot Cover..............4-14 Installing an Expansion Board ............4-14 Replacing the Retainer Bar ...............4-16 System Board Options................4-17 Memory Upgrade................4-18 Checking System Memory ............4-19 Removing a DIMM ..............4-19 Installing a DIMM..............4-20...
  • Page 6 5 Solving System Problems How to Get Help..................5-2 Solutions to Common Problems ..............5-2 System Problems.................5-3 Diskette Drive Problems ..............5-5 Monitor Problems................5-5 Keyboard/Mouse Problems ..............5-6 CD-ROM Drive Problems..............5-7 Speaker Problems................5-8 How to Clean the Mouse ................5-9 How to Replace the CMOS Battery............5-11 6 Getting Services and Support NECC Website.....................6-2 NECC FTP Site ...................6-3...
  • Page 7 System Management .................. B-5 Operating System Software ................ B-6 Operating Environment ................B-6 Compliance....................B-6 Index Regulatory Statements Contents vii...
  • Page 8: Using This Guide

    BIOS Setup Utility, the FLASH utility, the NEC Application and Driver CD, the NEC INFO Center, and the NEC OS Restore CD. The chapter also includes information for setting system jumpers. Chapter 4, Installing Options, provides installation procedures for processor and memory upgrades, expansion boards, and storage devices.
  • Page 9: Text Conventions

    Prolonged or improper use of a computer workstation may pose a risk of serious injury. To reduce your risk of injury, set up and use your computer in the manner described in Appendix A, Setting Up a Healthy Work Environment. Appendix B, System Specifications, provides technical specifications of your system and its components.
  • Page 10: Related Documents

    Information in the Release Notes is the result of extensive product testing. Your system also comes with the NEC INFO Center online documentation on your hard drive. The NEC INFO Center provides information about the system through the following online modules: Tour, User’s Guide, Questions, Solutions, and Services.
  • Page 11: Reviewing System Features

    Reviewing System Features Front Features Rear Features Inside Features Chassis Speakers System Overview...
  • Page 12: Front Features

    Front Features PowerMate ES Series computers can be used as minitower or desktop systems. The following figures show the features on the front of the system for both setups. A brief description follows the figures.
  • Page 13: System Controls And Lamps

    Front feature locations in desktop position A – Power/Sleep Button F – 3 1/2-Inch Accessible Device Bracket B – CD-ROM or DVD-ROM Drive G – 3 1/2-Inch Accessible Device Bay C – 5 1/4-Inch Bay H – Diskette Drive D – Power/Sleep Lamp I –...
  • Page 14: Diskette Drive A

    Power/Sleep lamp The power/sleep lamp indicates whether system power is on or off. It also lets you know if the system is operating in a power-saving mode. A steady green lamp indicates that the power is on to all system components.
  • Page 15: Cd-Rom Drive

    CD-ROM Drive Some models come with a 40X Max or higher variable speed CD-ROM drive. Use the CD-ROM drive to load and start programs from a compact disc (CD). You can also use the CD-ROM drive to play your audio CDs. The CD-ROM drive operates at different speeds depending on whether the CD you are using contains data or music.
  • Page 16 Rear feature locations in minitower position A – AC Power Connector E – Expansion Slots B – Power Supply F – System Board Connectors C – Keyboard/Mouse Anti-theft Bracket G – Monitor Power Socket D – Locking Tab H – Voltage Selector Switch Rear feature locations in desktop position A –...
  • Page 17 System board connector locations in the minitower position A – Keyboard Connector G – Line In B – Mouse Connector H – Line Out C – LAN Connector I – Monitor Connector D – Parallel Port J – Serial Port E –...
  • Page 18: External Connectors

    This connector supports the accelerated graphics port (AGP) standard. Attach the signal cable from your monitor to the ® VGA connector. Use this port to connect an NEC MultiSync monitor, NEC VistaScan™ monitor, or other VGA-compatible monitor with a 15-pin connector.
  • Page 19: Power Supply Features

    Audio connectors The system comes with sound integrated on the system board. The following audio connectors are found on the rear of the system, along the I/O panel of the system board (see the preceding figure for locations). — Microphone in jack The microphone in jack lets you connect a microphone for recording audio information in your data system files.
  • Page 20: Inside Features

    Voltage selector switch Sets the voltage for your system to 115 volts or 220 volts. Set the switch correctly for the voltage in your area. Most wall outlets in the United States and Canada are 115 volts. Outlets in Europe, Australia, and Asia (except Taiwan) are 230 volts.
  • Page 21: System Board

    System Board The system processor, memory, system battery, internal connectors, and most external connectors are housed on the system board. For information on the external connectors, see “External Connectors” earlier in this chapter. The system board supports one diskette drive and up to four IDE devices such as hard drives, a CD-ROM drive, a DVD-ROM drive, or a Zip drive.
  • Page 22: Chassis

    Chassis The NEC convertible chassis conforms to the Intel ATX form factor specification. The chassis has the following features: standardized chassis size and dimensions standardized system board size and dimensions standardized ATX 235-watt power supply switchable drive cage so system can be used in a minitower or desktop orientation.
  • Page 23: System Overview

    See the following sections for information about your system’s hardware, software, and security features. Hardware The PowerMate ES Series system includes the following hardware features: PC99 Compliance ®...
  • Page 24: Software

    If you have a Windows 2000/Windows NT configuration, you must choose the operating system you want to load. The operating system you choose is your only operating system and is the one that the NEC OS Restore program restores. NECC-provided applications, drivers, and utilities come loaded on the hard drive.
  • Page 25: Nec Os Restore Cd

    Should a problem occur that causes data loss or corruption, you can use the NEC OS Restore CD to restore your system to its original factory state or you can restore just the operating system and drivers. A full system restore loads the operating system and all the factory-supplied software that comes on your hard drive.
  • Page 26 Windows network security features To learn more about the network security features available through the Windows operating system, refer to your Windows documentation or consult your system administrator. Keyboard/mouse anti-theft bracket Make it difficult to remove the mouse and keyboard from your system by securing their cables within the anti-theft bracket.
  • Page 27: Setting Up The System

    Setting Up the System Chassis Orientation Cable Connections Startup Shutdown Power-Saving Operation System Care More Information...
  • Page 28: Chassis Orientation

    Chassis Orientation The NEC PowerMate ES system is designed to be used either as a minitower or a desktop computer. The accessible drives in the system can be positioned to accommodate either orientation. There are unobtrusive rubber pads on one end and one side of the system.
  • Page 29: Startup

    To see the messages, press Esc during POST. At the bottom of the NEC startup screen, the following message appears: Press F2 to enter BIOS Setup If you want to enter the BIOS Setup, immediately press F2 while the startup screen displays.
  • Page 30: Shutdown

    Note If the system displays a message indicating that system settings have changed, run the BIOS Setup utility (see Chapter 3, “Configuring the System”). On systems loaded with the Windows NT 4.0 operating system, press Ctrl Alt Del when prompted on-screen to do so. The log-on box appears for entering a password.
  • Page 31: Power-Saving Operation

    Power-Saving Operation If the system is running Windows 98 or Windows 2000, you can put it in Sleep mode (a power-saving state) by lightly pressing and immediately releasing the power button on the front of your unit. The Sleep mode is a convenient way of conserving energy when you are going to be away from your system for a short period of time.
  • Page 32: System Care

    System Care Your system is a durable, dependable computer built for heavy use. With protective measures and proper care, you can prevent problems and promote the successful operation and long life span of your computer. Protecting Your System From Damage There are several ways that you can protect your system from possible damage.
  • Page 33: Keeping Your System In Good Condition

    After turning off power, wait about five seconds for the hard drive to spin down before you power on again. Be sure that nothing is placed on top of your system power cables. Prevent dust from entering your system by covering it when it is not in use.
  • Page 34: Moving Or Shipping Your System

    If these are not available, be sure to use adequate packing materials to protect the components. To set up your system, follow the steps on the PowerMate ES Series Quick Setup poster that comes with the computer. 2-8 Setting Up the System...
  • Page 35: More Information

    Quick Reference to Information About the Computer Information Where to Find It Reinstalling the applications provided “NEC Application and Driver CD” in by NECC Chapter 3 Installing the NEC INFO Center online “NEC INFO Center” in Chapter 3...
  • Page 36: Configuring The System

    Configuring the System Configuration Tools and Utilities BIOS Setup Utility Flash Utility NEC INFO Center NEC Application and Driver CD NEC OS Restore CD Intel Processor Serial Number Control Utility Identifying the Pentium III Processor System Board Jumper Settings...
  • Page 37: Configuration Tools And Utilities

    American Megatrends Inc. (AMI) BIOS Setup utility for configuring your system FLASH utility for BIOS updates NEC INFO Center for quick access to information about your system NEC Applications and Driver CD for reinstalling the NECC-supplied applications and installing optional drivers...
  • Page 38 Configuration Method, Tool, or Utility Diskette drive, enabling BIOS Setup (Main menu) Drivers for NECC hardware, installing NEC Application and Driver CD Hard drive, setting a pre-delay BIOS Setup (Advanced menu, under Advanced CMOS Setup) Inactivity timeout, setting BIOS Setup (Advanced menu, under...
  • Page 39: Bios Setup Utility

    To start the BIOS Setup utility, follow these steps. Turn on or reboot the system. Press as soon as you see the following message at the bottom of the NEC startup screen. <F2 for BIOS Setup> You have about five seconds to press before the system boot continues.
  • Page 40: How To Use Setup

    How to Use Setup The Setup utility has a Main menu window and four top-level menus with submenus. The menu bar at the top of the Main menu window lists the following top-level menus. Main Use the Main menu for basic system configuration. For example, select Main to set the system date, set diskette and hard disk parameters, or set the hard drive auto-detect feature.
  • Page 41: Main Menu

    To select one of the four menus from the menu bar, use the left and right arrow keys. Use the up or down arrow keys to select an item under the menu. Menu items preceded by a > contain a submenu of selectable fields for setting system parameters.
  • Page 42 Main Menu Items Menu Item Settings (default is bold) Set system date in this field. Press Tab or Enter System Date to move between month, date, and year fields. Example: 01/31/2000 Set system time in this field. Press Tab or Enter System Time to move between hour, minute, and second fields.
  • Page 43 Main Menu Items Menu Item Settings (default is bold) Auto, User Type, Not Installed Primary IDE Master Auto, User Type, Not Installed Primary IDE Slave Auto, User Type, Not Installed Secondary IDE Master Auto, User Type, Not Installed Secondary IDE Slave Each device menu item displays the Hard drive or CD-ROM identifier if a device is installed.
  • Page 44: Advanced Menu

    Main Menu Items Menu Item Settings (default is bold) On, Off 32 Bit Transfer Mode When On, allows 32 bit IDE data transfers. Should only be On if supported by a chipset controller. LBA Mode On, Off When On is selected, it causes logical block addressing to be used in place of cylinders, heads, and sectors.
  • Page 45 Advanced Menu - Advanced CMOS Setup Menu Item Settings (default is bold) Status only. Press Enter to view. View DMI Event Log No, Yes Clear all DMI Events Logs Selecting No prevents clearing out the DMI events logs. Enabled, Disabled Event Logging Selecting Enabled permits event logging.
  • Page 46 Advanced Menu - Advanced CMOS Setup Menu Item Settings (default is bold) Yes, No Try Other Boot Devices Select Yes to cause the system to try to boot from other boot devices if there is a boot failure. Selecting No causes the boot to be carried out from selected devices.
  • Page 47 Advanced Menu - Advanced Chipset Setup Menu Item Settings (default is bold) Enabled, Disabled USB Function Select Enabled to enable use of USB functions for USB devices. Enabled, Disabled, USB Keyboard Legacy Support Select Enabled to enable the USB functions for USB keyboards.
  • Page 48 Advanced Menu - Power Management Setup Menu Item Settings (default is bold) Dual Color, Single Color, Blinking Green PC LED Status Select Dual-Color to show a green LED for normal use and an orange LED for standby use. Standby, Disabled, Suspend Video Power Down Mode Select Standby or Suspend to power down the video...
  • Page 49 Advanced Menu - Power Management Setup Menu Item Settings (default is bold) Enabled, Disabled PME Function Select Enabled to allow the system to be restored from a power saving state. Disabled, Enabled Resume on RTC Alarm When Enabled, you can choose the time the system boots up (see the following time settings).
  • Page 50 Advanced Menu - PCI/Plug and Play Setup Menu Item Settings (default is bold) Disabled, Enabled PCI VGA Palette Snoop Set to Enabled to enable PCI VGA palette snooping. PCI/PnP, ISA/EISA DMA Channel 0, 1, 3, 5, 6, 7 Permits configuring the DMA channels either by PCI/Plug and Play or by ISA.
  • Page 51 Advanced Menu - Peripheral Setup Menu Item Settings (default is bold) 378, 278, 3BC, Auto, Disabled Onboard Parallel Port Select Auto to allow the BIOS to automatically assign the parallel port to an available parallel port IRQ. EPP, ECP, Bi-Directional, Normal Parallel Port Mode Use this mode to choose the operating mode of the onboard parallel port.
  • Page 52 Advanced Menu - Hardware Monitor Setup Menu Item Settings (default is bold) ACPI Shut Down Disabled Temperature ° ° C/176 ° ° F/185 ° ° F/194 ° ° F/203 ACPI gives the operating system direct control over the power management and Plug and Play functions of a computer.
  • Page 53: Security Menu

    Security Menu Choose the Security menu by selecting Security in the legend bar on the Main menu screen. Other Security menu options are available by selecting submenus. Use the arrow keys to select one of the Security menu options and press Enter to select a submenu.
  • Page 54: Exit Menu

    Exit Menu Choose the Exit menu by selecting Exit in the legend bar on the Main menu. Other Exit menu options are available by selecting submenus. Use the arrow keys to select one of the Exit menu options and press Enter to display the submenu.
  • Page 55: Nec Info Center

    To install the NEC INFO Center, double click the NEC OnLine Docs icon on the Windows desktop. Once the NEC INFO Center is installed, an NEC INFO Center icon appears on the Windows desktop. Double click on this icon to start the NEC INFO Center. The INFO Center opening screen appears (see the following screen).
  • Page 56 . At the Control Panel, double click Panel Add/Remove Programs Double click and follow the prompts. NEC INFO Center To reinstall the NEC INFO Center, use the NEC Application and Driver CD (see the following section, “NEC Application and Driver CD”). Configuring the System 3-21...
  • Page 57: Nec Application And Driver Cd

    NEC INFO Center (online documentation). You can also use the NEC Application and Driver CD at any time to restore an application, driver, or utility. Note If you perform a full system restore using the NEC OS Restore CD, the full restore process loads all the factory-installed software that came with your system.
  • Page 58: Nec Os Restore Cd

    NEC OS Restore CD Use the NEC OS Restore CD to restore your system to its original factory state if a problem occurs that causes data loss or corruption. The NEC OS Restore CD provides options for a full system restore with factory- installed software or for a restore with only the operating system and drivers.
  • Page 59 Remove the Master Restore bootable diskette and restore CD from their drives. Insert the NEC Application and Driver CD or other CD into the drive(s). If you are using the NEC Application and Driver CD, go to “NEC Application and Driver CD”...
  • Page 60: Intel Processor Serial Number Control Utility

    Intel Processor Serial Number Control Utility The Intel Processor Serial Number Control Utility is a Windows program that enables or disables the reading of the Pentium III processor serial number by software. This function lets you control which software programs or websites have permission to read the processor serial number.
  • Page 61: Processor Serial Number

    Processor Serial Number The Intel processor serial number, a feature of the Pentium III processor, is an identifier for the processor. The processor serial number is unique, and when used in conjunction with other identification methods, can be used to identify the system or user. This number can be used in a wide variety of applications which benefit from stronger forms of system and user identification.
  • Page 62: Technical Support

    Can a website read my serial number without my knowledge? No, generally not. Websites cannot read serial numbers unless you allow them to download a program which can read the processor serial number. Almost all browsers are configured to warn users whenever they download executable software.
  • Page 63: Identifying The Pentium Iii Processor

    BIOS detects the Pentium III processor. You can obtain a patch to fix the Windows processor identification once Microsoft releases the patch. Check for the patch on the Microsoft website ( ) or the NECC website www.microsoft.com www.nec-computers.com 3-28 Configuring the System...
  • Page 64: System Board Jumper Settings

    System Board Jumper Settings The system board has six jumper blocks, as shown on the following figure. Jumper locations are provided in the following figure. The tables following the figure provide detailed information on jumper settings and functions. Jumpers are set correctly at the factory for the system configuration.
  • Page 65: Usb Keyboard Wakeup

    To prevent damage to the system board, do not set jumpers while power is on. USB Keyboard Wakeup USB keyboard wake-up jumper block JP2 is a three-pin jumper block used to enable or disable the keyboard wake up mode when the system is in the Save to RAM (STR) mode.
  • Page 66: Cmos Clear

    BIOS Recovery Jumper Block JP15 Settings Function Jumper Pins Description Normal 1 and 2 Factory setting. Sets the system for normal operation. The BIOS uses current configuration information and passwords at power on. Recovery open for 10 To enable BIOS recovery for a seconds corrupted system, remove the jumper.
  • Page 67: Usb Port Selection

    USB Port Selection USB port selection jumper block JP13 is a six-pin jumper block for enabling or disabling the USB ports. Descriptions for each JP13 jumper setting are provided in the following table. USB Port Selection Jumper Block JP13 Settings Function Jumper Pins Description...
  • Page 68: Installing Options

    Installing Options General Rules Safety Precautions System Unit Covers Expansion Boards System Board Options Data Storage Devices Minitower and Desktop Setup Options...
  • Page 69: General Rules

    This chapter provides installation instructions for a variety of industry- standard and NECC expansion options that you can add to your system. Included in the chapter are procedures for expansion board installation memory module upgrade processor upgrade data storage device installation. Most procedures require removal of the system’s cover.
  • Page 70: Safety Precautions

    Safety Precautions Observe safety rules when working inside the system and when handling computer components. Avoid electric shock or personal injury by observing the following warning. Before removing system covers, turn off the power and unplug the system power cable. Power is removed only when the power cable is unplugged.
  • Page 71: System Unit Covers

    System Unit Covers The following sections describe how to remove and replace the system unit cover and the front panel. Remove the cover to access the interior of the system. See “Removing the Cover.” Remove the front panel to install or replace a 3 1/2-inch accessible device, a 5 1/4-inch accessible device, or a 3 1/2-inch internal device.
  • Page 72 Locating the cover screws A – Cover C – Locking Tab B – Cover Screws Grasp the handle on the cover and slide the cover towards the rear of the chassis about an inch. Detach the cover from the tabs and slots along the edges of the chassis, and then lift it off the system.
  • Page 73: Replacing The Cover

    Replacing the Cover Replace the cover as follows. Ensure that all cables inside the chassis are positioned to prevent crimping, abrasion, or cutting while installing the cover. Check that the ribbon cables are folded along their fold lines and out of the direct path of the cover. Position the cover over the side of the chassis so that the back edge of the cover is about an inch beyond the back edge of the chassis (see the following figure).
  • Page 74: Removing The Front Panel

    Firmly press the cover against the chassis and slide the cover towards the front of the chassis until it locks in place. Note If the cover does not slide all the way to the front of the chassis, check that the cover tabs at the front of the cover are properly inserted into their slots in the chassis.
  • Page 75: Replacing The Front Panel

    Releasing front panel locking tabs A – Slots in Chassis B – Locking Tabs If you are removing or installing a device, see one of the following sections. “Replacing 5 1/4-Inch Accessible Devices” “Replacing 3 1/2-Inch Accessible Devices” “Replacing Internal Drives.” Replacing the Front Panel Replace the front panel as follows.
  • Page 76 Aligning front panel tabs A – Slots on Chassis C – Chassis Front B – Hooked Tabs on Front Panel D – Front Panel Insert the hooked tabs and then press the front panel up into position until the posts fit in the holes and the other tabs lock the panel in place.
  • Page 77: Expansion Boards

    Expansion Boards Your system supports 32-bit PCI Plug and Play expansion boards. With Plug and Play expansion boards, you can install a board without changing the hardware settings. There are no system resource conflicts to resolve. Plug and Play automatically configures the board for the system. The PCI connectors support bus mastering and accept PCI expansion boards that run at half the system board’s bus speed.
  • Page 78: Removing The Retainer Bar

    Removing the Retainer Bar Expansion boards and slot covers are held in place by a retainer bar. Remove the retainer bar before removing or replacing expansion boards or slot covers. To remove the retainer bar, use the following steps. Remove the cover (see “Removing the Cover” earlier in this chapter). Press down on the two tabs on the retainer bar.
  • Page 79: Removing An Expansion Board

    Removing an Expansion Board To remove an expansion board, use the following steps. Remove the cover (see “Removing the Cover” earlier in this chapter). Label and unplug any cables connected to the board. Remove the retainer bar (see “Removing the Retainer Bar”). Hold the expansion board by its edges or its bracket and pull it out of the connector and expansion slot.
  • Page 80: Installing A Slot Cover

    Installing a Slot Cover To install a slot cover follow these steps. Slide the slot cover back into the expansion board slot. Make sure its narrowed end goes into the metal strap. Its top edge should fit around the raised hole in the edge of the chassis. Installing a Slot Cover A –...
  • Page 81: Removing A Slot Cover

    Removing a Slot Cover Remove a slot cover using these steps. Slide the slot cover up to free it from the small strap holding its narrow end and the raised hole along the edge of the chassis (see the previous figure). Save the slot cover for future use.
  • Page 82 Aligning an expansion board A – Expansion Board Secure the expansion board in place with the retainer bar (see “Replacing the Retainer Bar”). Attach any signal cables required by the expansion board. Replace the cover (see “Replacing the Cover” earlier in this chapter). Installing Options 4-15...
  • Page 83: Replacing The Retainer Bar

    Replacing the Retainer Bar To install the retainer bar, use the following steps. Holding the retainer bar at an angle, position its legs near the slots in the chassis (see the following figure). Push the bar so the legs go in the slots and the top of the bar slides under the edge of the chassis.
  • Page 84: System Board Options

    System Board Options This section describes how to upgrade options on the system board. Procedures described in this section include: adding memory modules upgrading the processor. The following figure shows the locations of the sockets and connectors on the system board. System board sockets and connectors A –...
  • Page 85: Memory Upgrade

    Memory Upgrade Memory upgrades are installed into two memory module sockets on the system board. The sockets support up to 512 MB of high-speed memory. The system supports 168-pin, 100-MHz SDRAM modules in 32-, 64-, 128-, and 256-MB unbuffered memory configurations. Dual inline memory modules (DIMMs) are supported.
  • Page 86: Checking System Memory

    Checking System Memory If you do not know how much memory is installed in your system, check the amount by using the following procedure. On the Windows desktop, point to My Computer, and click the right mouse button. With the left mouse button, click Properties. The General tab shows the random access memory (RAM).
  • Page 87: Installing A Dimm

    Unclipping a DIMM A – Plastic Clip If you are installing a DIMM, see “Installing a DIMM” in the next section. Replace the cover (see “Replacing the Cover” earlier in this chapter). Installing a DIMM Use the following steps to install a memory module. Remove the cover (see “Removing the Cover”...
  • Page 88: Processor Upgrade

    Aligning a DIMM A – Plastic Clips B – Notches Replace the cover (see “Replacing the Cover” earlier in this chapter). Note If you find a discrepancy in the amount of memory displayed at the Power-On Self-Test or in Windows with the amount of memory that you installed, check that you installed the memory modules correctly.
  • Page 89: Removing The Processor

    To remove the processor from the socket, see “Removing the Processor.” To install the upgrade processor, see “Installing an Upgrade Processor.” Removing the Processor Remove the processor from its socket on the system board as follows. Before handling components, reduce static discharge by touching the chassis.
  • Page 90: Installing An Upgrade Processor

    Carefully lift up on the processor and remove it from the socket. Store the processor in a static-free bag. Removing the heat sink and processor A – Heat Sink C – Locking Lever B – Retention Clip D – Processor Install the upgrade processor (see “Installing the Upgrade Processor”...
  • Page 91 Carefully align the processor pins with the socket pin holes and set the processor into the socket. If aligned correctly and the pins are not bent, the processor seats in the socket without forcing. If the processor does not seat, check for correct alignment and bent pins.
  • Page 92: Data Storage Devices

    Data Storage Devices The system board in the computer supports the following storage devices: one diskette drive up to four IDE drives, such as an IDE hard drive, IDE CD-ROM drive, DVD-ROM drive, and an IDE Zip drive. In addition, the system can support other storage devices (SCSI or PCMCIA-based, for instance) with the installation of a compatible controller board.
  • Page 93: Preparing The Device

    Depending on your configuration, one 5 1/4-inch accessible device bay might contain a CD-ROM drive, DVD-ROM drive, or other storage device. The other accessible bay supports devices with 5 1/4-inch form factors (frames): CD-ROM drive or DVD-ROM drive Zip drive. The accessible bays are not limited to devices with removable media.
  • Page 94 System board cable connectors A – CD Audio In C – Primary IDE Connector B – Secondary IDE Connector D – Diskette Drive Connector Use the following table when configuring IDE drives on the primary and secondary IDE connectors on the system board. IDE Connector Configuration Configuration Primary connector...
  • Page 95: Diskette Drive Signal Cable

    IDE Connector Configuration Configuration Primary connector Secondary connector 2 devices (hard drive, Master - hard drive Master - Zip drive Zip drive) Slave - none Slave - none 3 devices (hard drive, Master - hard drive Master - CD-ROM CD-ROM, Zip drive) Slave - none Slave - Zip drive 3 devices (hard drive,...
  • Page 96: Ide Signal Cables

    IDE Signal Cables Systems with a UDMA/66 hard drive come with a two-connector UDMA 66 cable attached to the primary IDE connector. Some systems come with a second three-connector IDE cable connected to the second IDE drive (such as the CD-ROM drive) and to the secondary IDE connector. System Power Cables Power cables come from the power supply and are attached to the standard storage devices.
  • Page 97: Diskette Drive Cabling

    Connecting the IDE drive cable A – Connects to System Board B – Connects to IDE Devices IDE Connector If you are installing a CD-ROM drive or a DVD-ROM drive and your system has speakers, connect the drive’s audio cable to the CD In connector on the system board or optional sound board (see the instructions that come with the drive).
  • Page 98: Network Board Wake-On Lan Cabling

    Network Board Wake-On LAN Cabling If your computer has a network board, your system can be readied for “Wake-On LAN” by connecting the Wake-On LAN (WOL) cable. Wake- On LAN allows your system to be powered up remotely by a server computer.
  • Page 99: Removing Or Replacing A Bay Cover

    Use your stored rails on a new device if it doesn’t have the correct type of rail. When you convert the chassis to a desktop or a minitower, always move the stored rails for the new position as well. For instructions on removing or replacing rails, covers, or devices, see the following sections: “Removing or Replacing a Bay Cover”...
  • Page 100 Removing a 5 1/4-inch bay cover Use these rails on the new 5 1/4-inch device if its rails are the wrong type (see “Removing or Installing Device Rails”). If the device already has the right type of rails, set aside the rails you just removed for future use.
  • Page 101: Storing And Retrieving Unused Rails

    Position the cover so the arrows on either side point up for the chassis orientation you are using. Line up the cover tabs with the slots on the rails. These slots are about 1/4 inch in from the ends of the rails (see the following figure). Place each cover tab in its slot.
  • Page 102: Removing Or Installing Device Rails

    Storing an unused rail A – Front of Chassis C – Tab at End of Rail B – Device Rail Press the rail against the wall of the bay with your thumb and press the tab toward the center of the bay with your forefinger. Slide the rail along the guides until its tab clicks in place.
  • Page 103: Removing A 5 1/4-Inch Accessible Device

    Secure each rail to the new device with the screws (two or three to a side) from the old device. Locating the screws for 5 1/4-Inch device rails A – Screw or Locking Pin B – Device Rail Removing a 5 1/4-Inch Accessible Device Remove the system unit cover and front panel (see “Removing the Cover”...
  • Page 104 Releasing a 5 1/4-inch device Remove the rails from the old device (see “Removing or Installing Device Rails”). If the bay is to remain empty, see step 6 only. If you are installing a new device, skip to step 7. If the bay is to remain empty: Store the rails in the empty bay (see “Storing and Retrieving Unused Rails”).
  • Page 105: Installing A 5 1/4-Inch Accessible Device

    Installing a 5 1/4-Inch Accessible Device Note Install rails on the new device before attempting to insert the new device in the system. Use the rails from the old device or the empty bay. Remove the system unit cover and front panel (see “Removing the Cover”...
  • Page 106: Replacing 3 1/2-Inch Accessible Devices

    Inserting a 5 1/4-inch device for use in a minitower Reconnect the power and signal cables to the device (see “IDE Drive Cabling”). Replace the front panel (see “Replacing the Front Panel”). Replace the system unit cover (see “Replacing the Cover”). Replacing 3 1/2-Inch Accessible Devices The following sections describe how to install 3 1/2-inch accessible devices in the system.
  • Page 107: Removing A 3 1/2-Inch Accessible Device

    Removing a 3 1/2-Inch Accessible Device To remove a 3 1/2-inch accessible device, first remove the bracket holding the device from the system, then remove the 3 1/2-inch accessible device from the bracket. Remove the system unit cover and front panel (see “Removing the Cover”...
  • Page 108 Unlatch the bracket cover by pressing the two side tabs towards each other. (Reach in behind the front shield of the bracket for easiest access.) Set the cover aside (see the following figure). Remove the four screws (two to a side) that secure the device to the bracket (see the following figure).
  • Page 109: Installing A 3 1/2-Inch Accessible Device

    If you are installing another 3 1/2-inch accessible device, see “Installing a 3 1/2-Inch Accessible Device.” If you are not installing a new device at this time, continue with step 9. Press the plastic bay cover over the opening in the bracket cover. Press the bracket cover over the front shield so the two side tabs click into place.
  • Page 110 Press the bracket cover over the front shield so the two side tabs click into place (see the figure “The 3 1/2-inch accessible device bracket” in the previous section). Slide the bracket into the lowest accessible bay in the chassis (for the chassis orientation you plan to use).
  • Page 111: Replacing Internal Drives

    Replacing Internal Drives The internal drives in the system are housed in a removable hard drive bracket. The hard drive bracket is fitted to the accessible device cage, and it is held in place by two screws on the front of the chassis. The following sections describe in detail how to install 3 1/2-inch internal drives in the system.
  • Page 112 Disconnect the power and signal cables connected to all devices in the drive bracket (see “IDE Drive Cabling”). Remove the screws that hold the drive bracket to the front of the chassis (see the following figure). Locating internal drive bracket screws A –...
  • Page 113 Remove the four screws that secure the drive to the drive bracket. Depending on the position of the drive, the screws may be located on opposite sides of the bracket, or all on one side of the bracket. Locating internal drive screws on the bracket A –...
  • Page 114: Installing A 3 1/2-Inch Internal Drive

    Installing a 3 1/2-Inch Internal Drive Before removing the cover, turn off system power and unplug the system power cable. Power is removed only when the power cable is unplugged. Follow the instructions in steps 1 to 8 of “Removing a 3 1/2-Inch Internal Drive”...
  • Page 115 Securing the internal drive bracket A – Screws Reconnect the power and signal cables for all devices in the drive bracket (see “IDE Drive Cabling”). Replace the front panel (see “Replacing the Front Panel”). Replace the system unit cover (see “Replacing the Cover”). 4-48 Installing Options...
  • Page 116: Minitower And Desktop Setup Options

    Minitower and Desktop Setup Options You have the option of using your system as a minitower computer by placing it in a vertical position, or converting it to a horizontal position, to use as a desktop computer. You can also convert the system back to a vertical position.
  • Page 117 Replace all devices, covers, and rails in the accessible device cage so they are right-side up in the drive cage. Place them in the same relative order they were in before. See the following sections for the procedures. “Storing and Retrieving Unused Rails” “Replacing a Bay Cover”...
  • Page 118: Converting From Desktop To Minitower

    Converting from Desktop to Minitower If the system has been used as a desktop computer you can convert it for use as a minitower computer with the following steps. Before converting the computer, turn off system power and unplug the system power cable. Power is removed only when the power cable is unplugged.
  • Page 119 Accessible device placement for a minitower A – 3 1/2-Inch Bracket B – 5 1/4-Inch Bays Remove the logo plate by unclipping its tabs from inside the front panel. Position the logo plate so it is readable when the chassis is in the vertical position.
  • Page 120: Solving System Problems

    Solving System Problems How to Get Help Solutions to Common Problems How to Clean the Mouse How to Replace the CMOS Battery...
  • Page 121: How To Get Help

    You may occasionally encounter a problem with the system. In most cases, the problem is one that you can solve yourself. The system has a built-in program that automatically checks its components when the system is powered on. If there is a problem, the system displays an error message.
  • Page 122: System Problems

    System Problems Check the following list to match your problem and see the possible cause and solution. No power and power lamp not lit. Check that system power is on. Check that AC power cord is plugged into the system power socket on the system unit and into a live, properly grounded AC power outlet or surge protector.
  • Page 123 System does not boot from hard drive. The system usually tries to start from the diskette drive before it starts from the hard drive. Remove the diskette from the diskette drive. Run the Setup Utility (see Chapter 3) and set the initial Boot parameter to a hard disk device instead of floppy disk device.
  • Page 124: Diskette Drive Problems

    Diskette Drive Problems Check the following problems to see the possible cause and solution. Diskette won’t load. Check that a diskette is not in the drive. Check that the diskette is being loaded correctly. Check that the system power lamp is on and that the power-on screen appears.
  • Page 125: Keyboard/Mouse Problems

    Screen is hard to read, it’s very dark, or the contrast is low. Adjust the monitor’s brightness or contrast controls. Distorted image appears on your monitor screen. Adjust the monitor’s video controls. If this does not help, turn the monitor off for several seconds, then back on. There is constant movement on the screen.
  • Page 126: Cd-Rom Drive Problems

    CD-ROM Drive Problems Check the following problems to see the possible cause and solution. The system does not see the drive. The drive designation is wrong and should be changed. The drive designation depends upon the storage device configuration in your system.
  • Page 127: Speaker Problems

    Speaker Problems Check the following problems to see the possible cause and solution. Speaker volume is too low. Adjust the volume control on the front of the system. If the speaker set has a volume control, adjust it. If the volume is still too low, adjust the volume through the system software.
  • Page 128: How To Clean The Mouse

    How to Clean the Mouse Under normal conditions, the mouse self-cleaning mechanism prevents a buildup of dust or lint around the mouse ball and tracking mechanism. Periodically, however, you might need to clean the mouse ball. Use these steps to clean your mouse. Wake a system in sleep mode, save and close any open applications, close Windows, and power off your system and any peripherals attached to it.
  • Page 129 Clean the mouse as follows. Use tap water, or tap water and a mild detergent, to clean the mouse ball. Use a clean, lint-free cloth to dry the ball. Blow into the mouse socket to remove remaining dust or lint. Use a Q-tip to remove accumulations of dirt.
  • Page 130: How To Replace The Cmos Battery

    How to Replace the CMOS Battery The system board uses a CMOS battery to maintain system configuration information. The battery is a coin-cell battery mounted on the system board (see the following figure). If the battery fails to maintain system configuration information, replace it with an identically rated battery from the same manufacturer.
  • Page 131 Locate the battery on the system board (see the following figure). Locating the battery on the system board A – Battery 5-12 Solving System Problems...
  • Page 132 Press down on the battery clip to release the battery from its socket in the system board. Removing the battery A – Battery B – Clip Remove the battery and discard in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions. With the positive (+) side of the new battery facing up, press the battery into the socket.
  • Page 133: Getting Services And Support

    Getting Services and Support NECC Website NECC FTP Site Email/Fax Technical Support Service NECC Technical Support Services...
  • Page 134: Necc Website

    Support and links to vendor websites automated email form for your technical support questions Reseller’s area (password accessible). To access the NECC Home Page, enter the following Internet Uniform Resource Locator (URL) in your browser: www.nec-computers.com 6-2 Getting Services and Support...
  • Page 135: Necc Ftp Site

    The NECC Technical Support Center offers technical support by Internet email if you have access. The Internet email address is: tech-support@nec-computers.com You can also fax technical questions to the NECC Technical Support Center if you have access to a fax machine (or an optional fax/modem).
  • Page 136: Necc Technical Support Services

    NECC Technical Support Services NECC also offers direct technical support through its Technical Support Center. (NECC technical support is for U.S. and Canadian customers only; international customers should check with their sales provider.) Direct assistance is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Call the NECC Technical Support Center, toll free, at (U.S.
  • Page 137: A Setting Up A Healthy Work Environment

    Setting Up a Healthy Work Environment Making Your Computer Work for You Arrange Your Equipment Adjust Your Chair Adjust Your Input Devices Adjust Your Monitor Vary Your Workday Pre-existing Conditions and Psychosocial Factors Checking Your Comfort: How Do You Measure Up?
  • Page 138: Making Your Computer Work For You

    Prolonged or improper use of a computer workstation may pose a risk of serious injury. To reduce your risk of injury, set up and use your computer in the manner described in this appendix. Contact a doctor if you experience pain, tenderness, swelling, burning, cramping, stiffness, throbbing, weakness, soreness, tingling and/or numbness in the hands, wrists, arms, shoulders, neck, back, and/or legs.
  • Page 139: Arrange Your Equipment

    Arrange Your Equipment Arrange your equipment so that you can work in a natural and relaxed position. Place items that you use frequently within easy reach. Adjust your workstation setup to the proper height (as described in this appendix) by lowering the table or stand that holds your computer equipment or raising the seat height of your chair.
  • Page 140: Adjust Your Chair

    Adjust Your Chair Your chair should be adjustable and stable. Vary your posture throughout the day. Check the following: Keep your body in a relaxed yet upright position. The backrest of your chair should support the inward curve of your back. Use the entire seat and backrest to support your body.
  • Page 141 Extend your lower legs slightly so that the angle between your thighs and lower legs is 90° or more. Place your feet flat on the floor. Only use a footrest when attempts to adjust your chair and workstation fail to keep your feet flat. Be sure that you have adequate clearance between the top of your thighs and the underside of your workstation.
  • Page 142: Adjust Your Input Devices

    Adjust Your Input Devices Follow these points in positioning your keyboard and mouse. Position your keyboard directly in front of you. Avoid reaching when using your keyboard or mouse. If you use a mouse, position it at the same height as the keyboard and next to the keyboard.
  • Page 143 Type with your hands and wrists floating above the keyboard. Use a wrist pad only to rest your wrists between typing. Avoid resting your wrists on sharp edges. Type with your wrists straight. Instead of twisting your wrists sideways to press hard-to-reach keys, move your whole arm. Keep from bending your wrists, hands, or fingers sideways.
  • Page 144: Adjust Your Monitor

    Adjust Your Monitor Correct placement and adjustment of the monitor can reduce eye, shoulder, and neck fatigue. Check the following when you position the monitor. Adjust the monitor height so that the top of the screen is at or slightly below eye level.
  • Page 145 Position the monitor at a 90° angle to windows and other light sources to minimize glare and reflections. Adjust the monitor tilt so that ceiling lights do not reflect on your screen. If reflected light makes it hard for you to see your screen, use an anti- glare filter.
  • Page 146: Vary Your Workday

    Vary Your Workday If you use your computer for prolonged periods, follow these instructions. Vary your tasks throughout the day. Take frequent short breaks that involve walking, standing, and stretching. During these breaks, stretch muscles and joints that were in one position for an extended period of time.
  • Page 147: Pre-Existing Conditions And Psychosocial Factors

    Note For more information on workstation setup, see the American National Standard for Human Factors Engineering of Visual Display Terminal Workstations. ANSI/HFS Standard No. 100-1988. The Human Factors Society, Inc., P.O. Box 1369, Santa Monica, California 90406. Pre-existing Conditions and Psychosocial Factors Pre-existing conditions that may cause or make some people more susceptible to musculoskeletal disorders include the following: hereditary...
  • Page 148: Checking Your Keyboard

    Checking Your Keyboard Is your keyboard angled so your wrists are straight when you type? Is your keyboard directly in front of you? Do you avoid resting your wrists on sharp edges? Do you press the keys gently and not bang on them? Checking Your Mouse Is your mouse at the same height as the keyboard and next to the keyboard?
  • Page 149 For more information on workstation setup, see the American National Standard for Human Factors Engineering of Visual Display Terminal Workstations. ANSI/HFS Standard No. 100-1988. The Human Factors Society, Inc., P.O. Box 1369, Santa Monica, California 90406 This appendix was prepared in consultation with Dr. David Rempel of the University of California/San Francisco Ergonomics Program and Mr.
  • Page 150: B System Specifications

    System Specifications Models Processor & Memory Storage Graphics Input/Output Expansion Power Management System Management Operating System Software Operating Environment Compliance...
  • Page 151 Models ® Minimum Single Intel Celeron or Pentium III 450 MHz processor, Configuration 32-MB RAM, 10-GB Ultra DMA/66 EIDE Hard Drive, AGP graphics, LAN, audio, Zip drive, diskette drive, keyboard, ® ® mouse, Microsoft Windows 98, or dual-boot Windows ® 2000/Windows NT 4.0.
  • Page 152: Storage

    Storage Diskette Drive 1.44 MB standard Hard Drive Options 10-GB, 15-GB 5400 RPM Ultra DMA 66 Enhanced IDE drive 20-GB, 30-GB 7200 RPM Ultra DMA 66 EIDE drive CD-ROM 40X maximum or higher variable-speed ATAPI drive Optional DVD-ROM 8X ATAPI drive (with software DVD decoder) ®...
  • Page 153: Input/Output

    Input/Output Disk Interface 32-bit PCI bus mastering IDE interface. Support for ATA- 66 (Ultra DMA), PIO Mode 4, and ATAPI devices. Dual channels support up to PCI/IDE devices. Keyboard Cherry Mouse Logitech 3D mouse I/O Connectors One AGP video connector Two serial RS-232C 16550 buffered (one standard, one available from system board with connector kit) One parallel: DB25, SPP/ECP/EPP...
  • Page 154: Expansion

    VESA video power down, inactivity timer, and auto start. ACPI Ready. System Management Ease-of-Use Plug-N-Play compliant, PCI version 2.1, NEC OS Restore CD, NEC Application and Driver CD BIOS DMI 2.0 compliant, SM (System Management) BIOS 2.1 Virus Protection Norton AntiVirus™...
  • Page 155: Operating System Software

    ICVT-003 Issue 2, Revision 1 European CD EMC Directive 89/336 EEC EN55022: 1993 Class B EN50082-1: 1997 CE LVD Directive 73/23 EEC EN60950 Meets all requirements in European Waste Regulation Ordinance for packaging scrap Conforms to NEC Licensed Mark Quality Standard B-6 System Specifications...
  • Page 156: Index

    Advanced menu (BIOS Setup), 3-9 system, 1-11, 4-17 Anti-theft bracket for Brackets keyboard/mouse, 1-6, 1-16 3 1/2-inch accessible device, 4-39, Application and Driver CD. See NEC 4-40, 4-41 Application and Driver CD. 3 1/2-inch internal device, 4-44, Audio 4-47 connectors, 1-9...
  • Page 157 CMOS clear jumper, 3-31 Compliance, B-6 Cables Configuration, 3-2 CD-ROM drive, 4-26 BIOS Setup utility, 3-4 diskette drive, 4-26, 4-28 FLASH utility, 3-19 DVD-ROM drive, 4-26 Connectors IDE drive, 4-26, 4-29 audio, 1-9 power, 4-26, 4-29 external, 1-8 UDMA/66, 4-29 fax/modem, 1-9 Zip drive, 4-26 keyboard port, 1-8...
  • Page 158 4-25 port, 1-9 specifications, B-3 setup, 2-2 Diskette, flash, 3-19 Fax/modem board, 1-9, 2-2 Documentation online protecting from lightning damage, NEC INFO Center, 3-21 Drive cage, 4-49, 4-51 Features Drivers front, 1-2 installing, 3-22 hardware, 1-13 Drives internal, 1-10...
  • Page 159 i810 chipset, B-2 Keyboard IDE drive adjusting, A-6, A-12 cables, 4-26, 4-29 anti-theft bracket, 1-6, 1-16 cabling, 4-29 cleaning, 2-7 Installing dimensions, B-5 3 1/2-inch accessible device, 4-39 port, 1-8 3 1/2-inch accessible device problems, 5-6 bracket, 4-39 setup, 2-2 3 1/2-inch internal device, 4-44, USB keyboard wake up jumper, 4-47...
  • Page 160 4-4 problems, 5-6 replacing cover, 4-6 setup, 2-2 safety precautions, 4-3 Moving preparations, 2-8 OS Restore CD. See NEC OS Restore CD NEC Application and Driver CD features, 1-15 Padlock slot, 1-6, 1-16, 4-4, 4-5, 4-6, installing software, 3-22...
  • Page 161 PCI Bus Architecture, B-2 Port, USB, 1-4 Quick reference chart, 2-9 POST message, 2-3 Power button, 1-3 Rails cables, 4-26, 4-29 guidelines for replacing, 4-31 cabling, 4-29 installing, 4-35 lamp, 1-4 removing, 4-35 management, 1-13 removing from bay, 4-34 saving mode, 2-5 replacing, 4-35 setup, 2-3 storing, 4-34...
  • Page 162 4-23 Slave device, 4-27 rails, 4-35 Sleep retainer bar, 4-16 button, 1-3 Restore CD. See NEC OS Restore lamp, 1-4 Socket 370, B-2 Retainer bar Software features, 1-14 installing, 4-16 Sound board, 1-13 removing, 4-11 Speakers, 1-12 RJ-11 connector, 1-9...
  • Page 163 Upgrading BIOS, 3-19 DIMMs, 4-18 memory, 4-17, 4-18 processor, 4-17 port selection jumper, 3-32 USB keyboard wakeup jumper, 3-30 USB port, 1-4, 1-8 Utilities, 3-2 BIOS Setup, 3-4 FLASH, 3-19 NEC OS Restore, 1-15 Norton AntiVirus, 1-14 software, 1-14 Index-8...
  • Page 164 Regulatory Statements The following regulatory statements include the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) Radio Frequency Interference Statement, compliance statements for Canada and Europe, battery disposal and replacement information, and the Declaration of Conformity. FCC Statement for United States Only Changes or modifications to this unit not expressly approved by the party responsible for compliance could void the user’s authority to operate the equipment.
  • Page 165 Canadian Department of Communications Compliance Statement This Class B digital apparatus meets all requirements of the Canadian Interference-Causing Equipment Regulations (pursuant to ICES-003 Issue 2, Revision 1). Avis de conformité aux normes du ministere des communications du Canada Cet equipment numérique de la Classe B respecte toutes les exigences du Reglement sur le matérial brouillage du Canada (en conformité...
  • Page 166 Battery Disposal The CMOS battery is made of lithium. Contact your local waste management officials for other information regarding the environmentally sound collection, recycling, and disposal of the batteries. Mini-PCI FCC Registration Numbers If your system has a built-in mini-PCI modem, the FCC registration number of your system is H8NTAI-34309-ME-E REN 0.4.
  • Page 167 NEC Computers Inc. DECLARATION OF CONFORMITY We, the Responsible Party NEC Computers Inc. 15 Business Park Way Sacramento, CA 95828 declare that the product NEC PowerMate ES Series is in compliance with FCC CFR47 part 15 for Class B digital devices.

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