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NEC POWERMATE VE - 07-1996 Manual

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PROPRIETARY NOTICE AND LIABILITY DISCLAIMER
The information disclosed in this document, including all designs and related
materials, is the valuable property of NEC Corporation (NEC) and/or its licensors.
NEC and/or its licensors, as appropriate, reserve all patent, copyright and other
proprietary rights to this document, including all design, manufacturing,
reproduction, use, and sales rights thereto, except to the extent said rights are
expressly granted to others.
The NEC product(s) discussed in this document are warranted in accordance with
the terms of the Warranty Statement accompanying each product. However, actual
performance of each such product is dependent upon factors such as system
configuration, customer data, and operator control. Since implementation by
customers of each product may vary, the suitability of specific product
configurations and applications must be determined by the customer and is not
warranted by NEC.
To allow for design and specification improvements, the information in this
document is subject to change at any time, without notice. Reproduction of this
document or portions thereof without prior written approval of NEC is prohibited.
MultiSync and PowerMate are registered trademarks of NEC Technologies, Inc.
FastFacts is a trademark of NEC Technologies, Inc.
All other product, brand, or trade names used in this publication are the trademarks or
registered trademarks of their respective trademark owners.
First Printing — July 1996
Copyright 1996
Copyright 1996
NEC Technologies, Inc.
NEC Corporation
1414 Massachusetts Avenue
7-1 Shiba 5-Chome, Minato-Ku
Boxborough, MA 01719
Tokyo 108-01, Japan
All Rights Reserved
All Rights Reserved

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Summary of Contents for NEC POWERMATE VE - 07-1996

  • Page 1 PROPRIETARY NOTICE AND LIABILITY DISCLAIMER The information disclosed in this document, including all designs and related materials, is the valuable property of NEC Corporation (NEC) and/or its licensors. NEC and/or its licensors, as appropriate, reserve all patent, copyright and other...

  • Page 2: Table Of Contents

    Contents Using This Guide Text Conventions............Related Documents ........... Introducing Your Computer Front Features ............System Controls and Lamps......... Diskette Drive A ..........CD-ROM Reader..........Back Features............External Connectors..........Power Supply Features ........1-11 Speakers..............1-12 The Microphone ............1-13 Getting Started Using a Mouse............
  • Page 3 Removing an Expansion Board from the Inside Slot..........3-15 SIMM Upgrade ............3-17 Checking System Memory........3-18 Removing a SIMM ..........3-20 Installing a SIMM ..........3-21 Video Upgrade............3-22 Processor Upgrade............ 3-24 Removing the Processor ........3-24 Installing the Processor ........3-25 Secondary Cache Upgrade ........
  • Page 4 Setting System Parameters The Setup Utility ............How to Start Setup ........... How to Use Setup ............. The Menu Bar ............. The Legend Bar ........... Selecting a Menu Item........Displaying a Submenu ........Getting Help ........... Main Menu Options..........IDE Adapters............Memory Cache ............
  • Page 5 NEC Bulletin Board Service........America Online Service..........CompuServe Online Service........E-Mail/Fax Technical Support Service...... Internet..............7-10 NEC Technical Support Services ......7-11 If You Have a Problem Problem Checklist............. Solutions to Common Problems......... System Problems ..........Diskette Drive Problems ........
  • Page 6 Getting Help ............. 8-13 Getting Help from Your Company......8-13 Getting Help from Your NEC Dealer ....8-13 Getting Help from NEC's Technical Support Center..............8-14 NEC Warranty/Non-Warranty Repair Service..8-14 Setting Up a Healthy Work Environment Making Your Computer Work for You......
  • Page 7 List of Tables Quick Reference to Information About Your Computer ............... Setup Key Functions..........Main Menu Parameters..........IDE Hard Disk Parameters........4-11 Memory Cache Parameters ........4-12 Boot Option Parameters ..........4-13 Keyboard Features Parameters........4-14 Advanced Menu Parameters........4-15 Integrated Peripherals Parameters ......

  • Page 8: Using This Guide

    Using This Guide The PowerMate Ve Series User's Guide provides a quick reference to information about your computer. The guide contains the following information: Chapter 1, Introducing Your Computer, provides a look at system components. See this chapter to familiarize yourself with your system.

  • Page 9: Text Conventions

    Chapter 8, If You Have a Problem, contains troubleshooting tips for solving simple problems and provides information on where you can find help when you cannot solve a problem yourself. Appendix A, Setting Up a Healthy Work Environment, contains guidelines to help you use your computer productively and safely.

  • Page 10: Related Documents

    In addition to this guide, the following printed ® documentation ships with your PowerMate Ve Series system. See the NEC PowerMate Customers Catalog included with your system for other related documentation. NEC PowerMate Ve Series Quick Setup/ Quick-Reference Roadmap Quick Setup contains information for quickly getting your system up and running.
  • Page 11 How Does Your Workplace Measure Up? This brochure provides information for setting up and using your computer productively and safely. Information includes guidelines to reduce the risk of injury associated with using a computer. Windows 95 User’s Guide This guide is a quick reference to information about using Windows 95.
  • Page 12 To purchase the service and reference manual, call NEC at 1-800-233-6321 (in the U.S.) or contact your local NEC sales provider (outside U.S.).

  • Page 13: Introducing Your Computer

    The following sections provide a brief look at the front and back features of your system. For a comprehensive source of information about your computer, see the online NEC PowerMate Ve Series System ® Documentation in the Windows NEC Information group.

  • Page 14: Front Features

    FRONT FEATURES The following figure shows the features on the front of the system. A brief description of the features follows the figure. System Controls and Lamps Diskette Drive A CD-ROM Reader* Power Button *Multimedia systems only. Front features 1-2 Introducing Your Computer...

  • Page 15: System Controls And Lamps

    The following figure depicts in detail the system lamps and controls called out in the previous figure. Power Lamp Disk Lamp Reset Button Suspend Button System controls and lamps System Controls and Lamps System controls let you select specific system operations. Lamps let you know the status of system operation.
  • Page 16 A blinking system unit power lamp lets you know that the system is in a power-saving mode. Reset button The reset button lets you manually restart your system when it does not respond to keyboard commands. CAUTION Resetting your system can result in the loss of data. Press the reset button only when all other methods of restarting your computer fails.

  • Page 17: Diskette Drive A

    Diskette Drive A Diskette drive A loads and starts programs from a diskette. Diskette drive A is your primary “bootable” drive. Diskette Drive Diskette Release Button Busy Lamp Diskette drive A features Your diskette drive has the following features: Diskette drive busy lamp Lights when your diskette drive is reading to or writing from a diskette.

  • Page 18: Cd-Rom Reader

    CD-ROM Reader An eight-speed CD-ROM reader is a standard feature in multimedia models. The CD-ROM reader is assigned as drive E. Use the CD-ROM reader to load and start programs from a compact disc (CD). You can also use the CD-ROM reader to play your audio CDs.
  • Page 19 CD Tray CD Busy Emergency Lamp Eject Hole Headphone Volume Open/Close Jack Control Knob Button CD-ROM reader features The CD-ROM reader has the following features: Headphone jack Allows the connection of an optional set of headphones with a stereo mini-jack plug. Volume control knob Lets you adjust the volume of an optional set of headphones.

  • Page 20: Back Features

    CD busy lamp Lights when the reader is retrieving data, music, or graphics/audio from a CD. Do not eject the CD or turn off the system unit when the lamp is on. CD tray Provides a surface for loading a CD into the reader. Press the open/close button to open or close the CD tray.

  • Page 21: External Connectors

    Your system has the following external connectors: VGA monitor connector Attach the signal cable from your monitor to this ® connector. Supports an NEC MultiSync monitor or other video graphics array (VGA)-compatible monitor with a 15-pin connector. Introducing Your Computer 1-9...
  • Page 22 Audio connectors These connectors come integrated on multimedia models. The connectors include microphone in, line in, and line out jacks. The microphone in jack lets you connect a microphone for recording audio information in your data system files. The line in jack lets you connect a stereo audio device such as a stereo amplifier or a cassette or minidisc player for playback or recording.

  • Page 23: Power Supply Features

    Mouse port Attach the mouse that comes with your computer to this port. The mouse port supports a PS/2-compatible mouse. Power Supply Features Your system has the following power supply features: Power supply fan Keep this area clear for proper ventilation. The power supply fan cools system components and prevents them from overheating.

  • Page 24: Speakers

    SPEAKERS Multimedia models come with a pair of high-quality, 8-watt stereo speakers that you can arrange to suit your work environment. An AC adapter comes with the system. To take full advantage of your stereo speakers and system’s sound capabilities, set up the speakers with the AC adapter. The speakers connect to the line out jack on the back of the system unit.

  • Page 25: The Microphone

    The sound software is Voyetra Multimedia Sound Software. See Chapter 6 for information on using the Multimedia Sound Software. THE MICROPHONE The microphone allows you to record voice and sound into your computer data files. See Chapter 6 for information on recording sound using the Multimedia Sound Software.

  • Page 26: Getting Started

    Getting Started This chapter provides the information you need to start using your system. Information includes: Using a Mouse If you are already familiar with using a mouse, skip this section. About Your Online Documentation Read this section for an explanation of the online document format and where to access it on your computer.

  • Page 27: About Your Online Documentation

    Besides this printed user’s guide, your system comes with online documentation conveniently available right from Windows. To access the online system documentation, locate the NEC Information group in Windows. Click the NEC PowerMate Online Documentation icon. A welcome screen appears with the information you need to use the online documentation.
  • Page 28 The NEC PowerMate Ve Series System Documentation is a comprehensive source of information about your system. To help you find the information you need, the documentation is organized by topic and the following modules: System Tour User’s Guide Product Information Center Option Installation Center Support Center.

  • Page 29: Where To Go From Here

    Read Appendix A, Setting Up a Healthy Work Environment. Take the System Tour in your online NEC PowerMate Ve Series System Documentation. See the online User’s Guide in your online NEC PowerMate Ve Series System Documentation. Install any applications. See the documentation that comes with the application.

  • Page 30: Quick Reference To Information About Your

    Quick Reference to Information About Your Computer WHAT YOU WANT TO FIND WHERE TO FIND IT Basic information about my Online User’s Guide in NEC PowerMate Ve computer Series System Documentation Setting a password “Setting a Password” in the online User’s...
  • Page 31 Guide ( NEC PowerMate Ve Series System Documentation) Protecting my system from “VirusScan for Windows,” Scan95,” and viruses “WebScan” in the online System Tour ( NEC PowerMate V&P Series System Documentation ) Using Desktop Management “Desktop Management Interface” in the online...

  • Page 32: Installing Options

    Installing Options Your PowerMate system supports a variety of industry- standard and NEC expansion options. There are many optional components available for you to customize your computer. monitors your system supports the connection of a VGA-compatible monitor such as NECs Multisync XE and XP series.

  • Page 33: Option Installation Procedures

    secondary cache upgrade to a 256-KB asynchronous or synchronous pipeline burst secondary SRAM cache module (standard in some configurations). drives your system supports a total of four storage devices. In addition to the standard 3 1/2-inch 1.44 MB diskette drive, three other storage device slots are available.
  • Page 34 Some of the options require locating the connector on the system board. See the following figure for connector locations. Cache Socket Processor Socket SIMM Socket 1 SIMM Socket 2 SIMM Socket 3 Video DRAM SIMM Socket Socket 4 System board sockets and connectors All options require the system cover removal.

  • Page 35: Safety Precautions

    Safety Precautions Take care when working inside the system and when handling computer components. Avoid electric shock or personal injury by observing the following warning. WARNING Before removing the system unit cover, turn off the power and unplug the system power cable. Power is removed only when the power cable is unplugged.

  • Page 36: Removing The System Unit Cover

    Always hold a chip or board by its edges. Avoid touching the components on the chip or board. Take care when connecting or disconnecting cables. A damaged cable can cause a short in the electrical circuit. Misaligned connector pins can cause damage to system components at power-on.
  • Page 37 CAUTION Electrostatic discharge can damage computer components. Discharge static electricity by touching a metal object before removing the system unit cover. Remove the two cover screws from the rear of the system unit. Screws Removing cover screws From the rear of the system, grasp the sides and slide the cover about an inch away from the front.

  • Page 38: Replacing The System Unit Cover

    Releasing the cover Lift the cover up and away from the system unit. Replacing the System Unit Cover Replace the cover as follows. Align the tabs on the sides of the cover with the inside unit frame as you position the cover over the chassis. Cover Tabs System Unit Frame Replacing the system unit cover...

  • Page 39: Expansion Boards

    Slide the cover forward to meet the front panel. NOTE The cover fits tightly. If the cover does not slide all the way to the front panel, place one hand on the front of the unit while you slide the cover forward from the rear.
  • Page 40 ISA expansion slots support industry-standard 8-bit or 16- bit expansion boards. Install half-length boards in the rear ISA slot and three-quarter-length boards in the front ISA slot. The PCI/ISA slot also supports PCI expansion boards. PCI expansion boards run at the system's processor speed. The PCI bus handles 32 bits of data at a time, being wider as well as faster than the standard ISA bus.

  • Page 41: Installing An Expansion Board

    Installing an Expansion Board Install expansion boards in the system as follows. Remove the system unit cover. Follow any preinstallation instructions that come with the expansion board (such as setting switches or jumpers on the board). If installing a board in the inside expansion slot (next to the power supply), see “Installing an Expansion Board in the Inside Slot.”...
  • Page 42 CAUTION A slot cover can damage the system board or any option board if it falls into the system. Take care to keep the slot cover from falling when removing the screw. If the slot cover does fall into the unit, remove it before replacing the cover.

  • Page 43: Installing An Expansion Board In The Inside Slot

    Installing the expansion board 7. Attach any signal cables required by the expansion board. Replace the system unit cover. Installing an Expansion Board in the Inside Slot Use this procedure if installing an expansion board into the inside slot in your system. Remove the system unit cover.
  • Page 44 CAUTION Take care not to drop the slot cover and support into the system. Slot Cover Slot Cover Support Screws Removing the slot cover support screws Hold the board by its edges, component side down and the bracket end facing the rear of the unit, and insert it into the expansion slot.

  • Page 45: Removing An Expansion Board

    Hold the slot cover support over the expansion board bracket and replace the two screws removed earlier. The slot cover support secures the expansion board in place. Expansion Board Screws Bracket Slot Cover Support Attaching the slot cover support Attach any signal cables required by the expansion board.

  • Page 46: Removing An Expansion Board From The Inside Slot

    Remove the screw that secures the board to the support bracket. Removing the screw 4. Pull the board out of the connector. Gently rock the board from side-to-side to release it from its connector. 5. Replace the slot cover that was removed when the option board was installed.
  • Page 47 Remove the two screws that secure the slot cover support and expansion board bracket to the rear of the system. Remove the slot cover support from inside the system unit. CAUTION Take care not to drop the slot cover support into the system, as it could damage the system board.

  • Page 48: Simm Upgrade

    SIMM UPGRADE Your PowerMate system comes with 8 MB or 16 MB of main system memory. Four sockets on the system board support up to 128 MB of high-speed memory using industry-standard, tin-plated, single in-line memory modules (SIMM). NOTE You may install 60 or 70-ns fast page mode (FPM), or 60-ns extended data output (EDO), parity or non-parity SIMMs into the SIMM sockets.

  • Page 49: Checking System Memory

    Checking System Memory Use the following procedure to: check the memory installed in the system determine the SIMM configuration needed to increase memory NOTE SIMM memory must be installed in pairs of the same memory type. identify SIMM sockets. Locate the four SIMM sockets on the system board (see “Option Installation Procedures”...
  • Page 50 Recommended Memory Upgrade Path TOTAL SIMM SIMM MEMORY SOCKET 1 SOCKET 2 SOCKET 3 SOCKET 4 8 MB* 4 MB 4 MB Empty Empty 16 MB 4 MB 4 MB 4 MB 4 MB 16 MB** 8 MB 8 MB Empty Empty 24 MB...

  • Page 51: Removing A Simm

    Removing a SIMM Use the following procedure to remove a SIMM. CAUTION: Reduce static discharge by touching the system's metal chassis. Remove the system unit cover. Locate the SIMM sockets (see “Option Installation Procedures” earlier in the chapter). Press the metal clips at the outer edges of the socket away from the SIMM.

  • Page 52: Installing A Simm

    Installing a SIMM Install a SIMM as follows. Remove the system unit cover. Locate the SIMM sockets (see “Option Installation Procedures” earlier in the chapter). Remove any currently installed SIMMs that are not needed. CAUTION Before installing a SIMM, reduce static discharge by touching the system's metal chassis.

  • Page 53: Video Upgrade

    Tilt the SIMM towards the locking tabs using equal pressure at the ends of the SIMM until it locks into the socket. Clip Notched End of SIMM Inserting the SIMM Replace any cables or boards that may have been removed. Replace the system unit cover.
  • Page 54 CAUTION Reduce static discharge by touching the system's metal chassis. Align the notched ends of the module and socket. Using equal pressure, gently press the module into the socket. Repeat for the second module. Notched End of Module Notched Corner of Socket Aligning the video DRAM module with the socket Replace any boards that were removed.

  • Page 55: Processor Upgrade

    PROCESSOR UPGRADE The zero-insertion force (ZIF) socket accepts pin-grid-array (PGA) processors, such as the primary processor or an OverDrive processor. CAUTION Incorrect installation of the processor can damage the processor, system board, or both. Follow the installation instructions carefully. The system requires a heatsink on the OverDrive processor.

  • Page 56: Installing The Processor

    CAUTION Before picking up the processor, reduce static discharge by touching the metal frame of the system unit. See “Safety Precautions” in this chapter. Lift the processor out of the socket. Installing the Processor Remove the processor currently in the system (see previous procedure).

  • Page 57: Secondary Cache Upgrade

    Australia, and in some U.S. configurations. NEC recommends that you purchase the NEC Cache Upgrade Kit when adding secondary cache. The NEC option kit has been tested and approved to work correctly with your system. Use the following procedure to install the cache module.
  • Page 58 Pin 1 End of Module Aligning the cache module with the socket CAUTION Before you install a cache module, reduce static discharge by touching the system’s metal chassis. Align the pin 1 end of the cache module with the pin 1 end of the secondary cache socket.

  • Page 59: Data Storage Devices

    DATA STORAGE DEVICES The system board in the computer supports the following storage devices: up to two diskette drives, including the standard 1.44- MB diskette drive up to four IDE devices such as IDE hard disks and an IDE CD-ROM reader. Other storage devices might require the installation of a compatible controller board.

  • Page 60: Preparing The Device

    The following figure shows the device slot locations. 3 1/2-Inch Slot 5 1/4-Inch (contains 1.44-MB Accessible Slots* diskette drive) 3 1/2-Inch Internal Slot *Top 5 1/4-inch slot is unavailable in some configurations. Locating device slots Preparing the Device Before installing a storage device in the system, follow any preinstallation instructions that come with the device.

  • Page 61: Device Cables

    The standard IDE hard disk is set as the master device on the primary IDE connector. The CD-ROM reader in multimedia models is the master device on the secondary IDE connector. Device Cables The cables used for installation of optional storage devices include: diskette drive signal cable IDE signal cables...

  • Page 62: Diskette Drive Signal Cable

    Diskette Drive Signal Cable A three-connector diskette drive signal cable comes attached to the system board and to the standard 1.44-MB diskette drive. The installation of a second diskette drive in your system does not require the replacement of the existing diskette drive signal cable.

  • Page 63: Ide Signal Cables

    IDE Signal Cables Hard disk systems come with a three-connector IDE interface cable attached to the primary IDE connector. Multimedia systems come with a second IDE cable connected to the CD-ROM reader and to the secondary IDE connector. Each IDE connector on the system board supports two IDE devices.

  • Page 64: System Power Cables

    System Power Cables Power cables come from the power supply and are attached to the standard storage devices. System power cables vary in length and provide connector sizes to accommodate a variety of supported storage configurations. Power cable connectors are keyed to fit only in the correct position. The following figure shows the power cable connectors.

  • Page 65: Cabling An Ide Device

    Cabling an IDE Device The following procedure explains IDE device cabling. Connect the IDE signal cable connector to the connector on the IDE device. Take care to prevent bending drive connector pins. Align the IDE cable connector as shown in the following figure.

  • Page 66: Cabling A Diskette Drive

    Cabling a Diskette Drive Connect the diskette drive signal cable connector to the signal connector on the diskette drive as shown in the following figure. Locate an available power connector. Connect the power cable to the power connector on the device.

  • Page 67: Installing Storage Devices

    Installing Storage Devices The following subsections describe how to install 3 1/2-inch and 5 1/4-inch drives. The installation procedures include: removing the 3 1/2-inch drive bracket installing a 3 1/2-inch drive removing the front panel installing a 5 1/4-inch device replacing the front panel replacing the 3 1/2-inch drive bracket.
  • Page 68 Carefully lift the drive bracket up and place it on top of the power supply. Avoid pulling on the installed drive cables. Power Supply 3 1/2-Inch Drive Bracket Screw Tabs Removing the 3 1/2-inch drive bracket Installing Options 3-37...
  • Page 69 3 1/2-Inch Drive Installation Use the following procedure to install a hard disk drive into the drive bracket. Remove the system unit cover. Remove the 3 1/2-inch drive bracket from the system unit (see “Removing the 3 1/2-Inch Drive Bracket”). Follow the preinstallation instructions that come with the device, such as setting jumpers and switches.

  • Page 70: Installing The 3 1/2-Inch Drive

    Connect the drive cables. Replace the 3 1/2-inch drive bracket (see “Replacing the 3 1/2-Inch Drive Bracket”). Removing the Front Panel Remove the front panel only if you are installing a 5 1/4- inch device. The front panel does not need to be removed if you are installing a 3 1/2-inch hard disk drive.

  • Page 71: Installing The 5 1/4-Inch Device

    Remove the blank panel from the selected slot by pressing the panel tabs from inside the front panel and pushing the blank panel out. Top Blank Panel Tabs Bottom Blank Panel Tabs Locating the blank panel tabs Remove the perforated metal plate from the selected slot on the chassis by pulling the metal plate back and forth until it releases.
  • Page 72 NOTE If the 5 1/4-inch device comes with drive rails, do not attach them. Remove any rails already attached. See the documentation that comes with the device. From the front of the system, insert the device, connector end first, into the device slot. NOTE To easily access device connectors for cabling, do not insert a 5 1/4-inch device all the way...
  • Page 73 Securing the device Replace the drive bracket (see “Replacing the 3 1/2-Inch Drive Bracket”). 3-42 Installing Options...

  • Page 74: Replacing The Front Panel

    Replacing the Front Panel Replace the front panel only after it has been removed for a 5 1/4-inch device installation. If installing a 5 1/4-inch device, see “Installing the 5 1/4-Inch Device.” Align the four front panel tabs with the holes in the front of the system unit.

  • Page 75: Replacing The 3 1/2-Inch Drive Bracket

    Replacing the 3 1/2-Inch Drive Bracket When replacing the 3 1/2-inch drive bracket, take care to prevent pulling and loosening the cable connections. Place the 3 1/2-inch drive bracket in the 3 1/2-inch device slot. Slide the 3 1/2-inch drive bracket toward the front of the chassis so that the tabs secure the bracket.

  • Page 76: Adding External Options

    NOTE If a 1.2-MB diskette drive was installed, remove the protective cardboard insert from the drive. Run the Setup program to set the new configuration. ADDING EXTERNAL OPTIONS This subsection includes installation procedures for the following external options: parallel printer serial devices.

  • Page 77: Connecting An Rs232C Device

    Printer Port Printer Cable Screws Connecting a printer cable Connecting an RS-232C Device NOTE Before connecting a serial device to the system, be sure the serial device is set up correctly. Follow the setup instructions that come with the option. Turn off power to the system and to the serial device.
  • Page 78 Serial Port 2 Serial Port 1 Serial Cable Screws Connecting an RS-232C cable Installing Options 3-47...

  • Page 79: Setting System Parameters

    NOTE NEC recommends that you print out or write down your current Setup parameters and store the information in a safe place. This lets you restore your system to the current parameters if you ever need to replace the battery.

  • Page 80: The Setup Utility

    THE SETUP UTILITY The Setup utility lets you view and set system parameters. Use the Setup utility program to set the time and date. update or check system parameters when you add or remove expansion options. change or set power management features. correct a hardware discrepancy when the Power-On Self-Test (POST) displays an error message and prompts you to run Setup.

  • Page 81: How To Start Setup

    HOW TO START SETUP To start the Setup utility, follow these steps: Turn on or reboot your system. Setup displays the following message: Press <F2> to enter SETUP Press . Setup’s Main Menu window appears similar to the following screen. NOTE The screen shown is typical of your system.

  • Page 82: How To Use Setup

    HOW TO USE SETUP The Setup utility has a Main Menu window and five top- level menus with submenus. The Main Menu window contains the following areas: A title line — the top line of the Main Menu. This line displays the Setup utility name and copyright message.

  • Page 83: The Menu Bar

    The Menu Bar The menu bar at the top of the Main Menu window lists these menus: Main — Use this menu for basic system configuration. For example, select “Main” to set the system time, system date, diskette drives, and video parameters. Use this menu to check memory parameters.

  • Page 84: The Legend Bar

    The Legend Bar Use the keys listed in the legend bar on the bottom of the Setup menu to make your selections or exit the current menu. The following table describes the legend keys and their alternates. Setup Key Functions FUNCTION F1 or Alt-H Displays the General Help window (described later...

  • Page 85: Selecting A Menu Item

    Selecting a Menu Item To select a menu item, use the arrow keys to move the cursor to the field you want. Then use the value keys (F5, -, F6, +, or space bar) to cycle through the value for that field. The Save Values command in the Exit Menu saves the values currently displayed in all the menus.
  • Page 86 Parameters available directly from the Main Menu summary window have a right-pointing triangle next to the parameter. Use the arrow keys to move the cursor to the parameter and press to select a submenu. Enter See the sections following the table for a description of Main Menu parameters from the summary window.

  • Page 87: Ide Adapters

    IDE Adapters IDE adapters control the IDE devices, such as IDE hard disk drives and IDE CD-ROM readers, in your system. Your system uses two IDE controllers integrated on the system board. Setup supports up to four IDE devices, with an IDE adapter for each of the following configurations: 1 Master 1 Master, 1 Slave...
  • Page 88 Select the IDE Adapter option configuration directly from the Main Menu summary window. Available options include: IDE Adapter 0 Master IDE Adapter 0 Slave IDE Adapter 1 Master IDE Adapter 1 Slave. IDE Adapter 0 configures the fast IDE port (IDE1 connector), and IDE Adapter 1 configures the standard IDE port (IDE2 connector).

  • Page 89: Memory Cache

    IDE Hard Disk Parameters PARAMETER OPTIONS DESCRIPTION Type 1 to 39 Selecting 1 to 39 fills in all remaining User fields with values for predefined disk Auto type. “User” prompts the user to fill in remaining fields. When “Auto” is selected the BIOS automatically sets the drive type.

  • Page 90: Memory Shadow

    CAUTION Incorrect settings can cause the system malfunction. Memory Cache Parameters PARAMETER OPTIONS DESCRIPTION External Cache Enabled Sets the state of external cache. Disabled (default) Cache Video BIOS Enabled (default) Controls caching of the video BIOS area Disabled area. Caching Memory Enabled Default is disabled.

  • Page 91: Numlock

    Boot Option Parameters PARAMETERS OPTIONS DESCRIPTION Summary Screen Enabled (default) Displays system configuration at the Disable end of boot-up. Floppy Check Enabled (default) Verifies diskette type during bootup. Disabled Disabling speeds boot time. Last Boot Fail 3 (default) Sets the number of times you can User-selectable settings attempt to boot the system.

  • Page 92: The Advanced Menu

    Keyboard Features Parameters PARAMETERS OPTIONS DESCRIPTION Numlock Auto (default) On or Off turns Num Lock on or off at bootup. Auto turns Num Lock on if it finds a numeric key pad. Keyboard Auto- Fast (default) Sets the delay time after the key is Repeat Rate Medium held down and before it begins to...

  • Page 93: Integrated Peripherals Menu

    Advanced Menu Parameters PARAMETER OPTIONS DESCRIPTION Plug & Play OS Select "Yes" if you are using a Plug & Yes (default) Play capable operating system such as Windows 95. Otherwise, set to "No." Reset Configuration No (default) If Windows 95 or the ICU has difficulty Data configuring the system, try setting this parameter to "Yes"...

  • Page 94: Integrated Peripherals Parameters

    NOTE A Supervisor password might be required to select parameters from the Integrated Peripherals menu. Use the legend keys to make your selections and exit to the Main Menu. Use the table that follows to configure your peripherals. Integrated Peripherals Parameters FEATURE OPTIONS DESCRIPTION...

  • Page 95: The Security Menu

    Integrated Peripherals Parameters FEATURE OPTIONS DESCRIPTION Diskette Enabled (default) Enables the on-board diskette drive Controller Disabled controller. Local Bus IDE Both (default) Enables the on-board IDE controllers. Adapter Disabled “Both” enables the primary (fast) Primary channel and secondary (standard) channel. “Primary” enables only the primary (fast) channel.
  • Page 96 CAUTION The features that you set in the Security menu affect the features that appear on the Security menu as well as on other Setup menus. Enabling “Supervisor Password” requires a password for entering Setup. Passwords are not case sensitive. Pressing at either Set Supervisor Password or Set Enter...

  • Page 97: System Security Options

    System Security Options FEATURE OPTIONS DESCRIPTION Supervisor Password Disabled (default) Must set to Enabled to set a Enabled Supervisor password. Set Supervisor Up to seven Pressing displays a dialog Enter Password alphanumeric box for entering the supervisor characters password. This password gives FULL access to Setup menus.

  • Page 98: The Power Menu

    System Security Options FEATURE OPTIONS DESCRIPTION System Backup Disabled (default) When a schedule is specified, Reminder Daily displays a message during bootup Weekly asking (Y/N) if you have backed Virus Check Monthly up the system or scanned it for Reminder viruses.

  • Page 99: Power Management Parameters

    NOTE To disable all power management features, advanced power management (APM) Disabled. See the following table to set power management parameters. Power Management Parameters FEATURE OPTIONS DESCRIPTION Enabled (default) Advanced power management (APM) Disabled allows APM-aware software to better manage power savings. Keyboard Enabled (default) Allows keyboard activity to wake up...

  • Page 100: The Boot Menu

    THE BOOT MENU Selecting “Boot” from the menu bar displays the following list of boot devices: Diskette Drive CD-ROM reader Hard Drive THE EXIT MENU Selecting “Exit” from the menu bar displays the following exit options. Note that does not exit this menu. You must select one of the items from the menu or menu bar to exit.

  • Page 101: Discard Changes & Exit

    During bootup, Setup attempts to load the values you saved in NVRAM. If the values saved in NVRAM cause the system boot to fail, reboot and press to enter Setup. In Setup, you can load the ROM default values (as described in “Get Default Values”) or try to change the values that caused the boot to fail.

  • Page 102: Load Previous Values

    The first procedure “Microsoft Create System Disks,” is for the Windows 95 operating system. The second procedure “NEC Distribution Diskette Creator,” is for creating a backup of the MS-DOS and Windows for Workgroups operating system.
  • Page 103 NOTE When you power-on your system for the first time, you are prompted to create a backup copy of the operating system. From then on, the backup reminder prompt appears every fifth time you power on the system. Once you back up the operating system, the reminder prompt stops appearing.
  • Page 104 The second screen provides you with the following choices. Highlight the selection you want, and click on Next. Microsoft Windows 95 Setup Disk This selection creates a backup of the Windows 95 operating system (30 diskettes). Windows 95 Startup Disk This selection provides a bootable diskette for a system that has Windows 95 loaded.

  • Page 105: Distribution Diskette Creator

    Windows for Workgroups, you will need 11 formatted 1.44 MB diskettes. Use the following procedure to create the backup diskettes. From the Windows desktop, locate the NEC Utilities group and double click on the “NEC Distribution Diskette Creator” icon. In the Distribution Diskette Creator window, highlight the diskettes you want to create.

  • Page 106: Setting System Board Jumpers

    Setting System Board Jumpers This chapter provides jumper setting information for configuring your system for a particular system requirement. Situations that require changing the jumper settings include the following: upgrading your processor installing optional cache resetting your password. CAUTION Jumpers are set correctly at the factory for your configuration.

  • Page 107: Changing Processor Jumper Settings

    CHANGING PROCESSOR JUMPER SETTINGS The following procedure explains how to locate and change the jumper setting when you upgrade your processor. WARNING: The system power must be off before changing a jumper setting. Power off and unplug the system and any peripherals. Remove the system unit cover (see “Removing the System Unit Cover”...
  • Page 108 Set the Processor/Bus Speed jumpers for your processor upgrade. Change the jumper setting by lifting the plastic block and placing it on the appropriate pins as shown in the following figure. NEC recommends using needle- nose pliers to move a jumper. Setting System Board Jumpers 5-3...

  • Page 109: Setting The Cache Jumper

    Processor/Bus Speed 75-MHz Processor/ 50-MHz Bus Speed 90-MHz Processor/ 50-MHz Bus Speed 100-MHz Processor/ 66-MHz Bus Speed 120-MHz Processor/ 60-MHz Bus Speed 133-MHz Processor/ 66-MHz Bus Speed 150-MHz Processor/ 60-MHz Bus Speed 166-MHz Processor/ 66-MHz Bus Speed 1-2 VRE 2-3 VR Processor/bus speed jumper settings Reinstall any removed expansion boards (see “Installing an Expansion Board”...
  • Page 110 CAUTION Only change (or check) the cache jumper setting if you are installing optional cache. Otherwise, keep the jumper at its factory setting. Power off and unplug the system and any peripherals. Remove the system unit cover (see “Removing the System Unit Cover”...
  • Page 111 Set the L2 SRAM Cache jumper on pins 1 2 for an asynchronous cache module or on pins 2 3 for a synchronous pipeline burst cache module. SRAM cache 1-2 Asynchronous 2-3 Synchronous Pipeline Burst SRAM cache jumper If you removed any expansion boards, replace them (see “Replacing an Expansion Board”...

  • Page 112: Clearing Your Password

    CLEARING YOUR PASSWORD If you forgot your password, use the following procedure to clear your current password and to set a new one. Power off and unplug the system and any peripherals. WARNING The system power must be off before removing the cover and changing a jumper setting.
  • Page 113 Set a jumper on the Password Clear jumper pins. Password Clear Normal (default) Password Clear Password clear jumper Replace the system unit cover (see “Replacing the System Unit Cover” in Chapter 3). Connect system power cables and monitor. Power on the system. The system lets you boot your computer.

  • Page 114: Using Voyetra Sound Software

    Using Voyetra Sound Software Your PowerMate multimedia configuration ships with ® Voyetra multimedia sound software. Use this software to adjust the volume of your speakers, record sound using a microphone, play, edit, and record .WAV files, play music on your CD-ROM, and record, play or edit Musical Instrument Digital Interface (MIDI) sequences and save them as .MID files.

  • Page 115: Power Bar

    The Voyetra’s sound software screen resembles a component stereo system. Each module controls a function of your sound system. An explanation of each module follows the figure. Power Bar Audio Mixer CD Player WAV Player MIDI Player AudioStation main screen layout POWER BAR The Power Bar is the most important module because it controls the other modules.

  • Page 116: Audio Mixer

    To activate a module, click on the appropriate button. If the module is open, it closes and disappears from the stack. If the module is closed, it opens and appears at the bottom of the stack. To quit AudioStation, click on the Power button. The Power Bar buttons are explained as follows.

  • Page 117: Adjusting The Sound Using The Speakers

    From the Control Panel — click on the Sound icon. From the Windows 95 taskbar — double click on the speaker icon next to the time on your taskbar. Adjusting the Sound Using the Speakers The controls on your 8-watt speakers let you adjust the treble, bass, and volume (see the Speakers in Chapter 1 for control locations).

  • Page 118: Recording Digital Audio Files

    Recording Digital Audio Files To record .WAV files, use the following procedures. Connect your audio source (microphone, CD player, tape deck) to the input jack at the back of the system. From the Mixer module, select your input source and set the recording volume.

  • Page 119: Editing Digital Audio Files

    Editing Digital Audio Files To edit digital audio files, click on the Edit button. This launched the AudioView program with the current file open. MIDI PLAYER The MIDI player plays, edits, and records musical instrument digital interface (MIDI) sequences and saves them as .MID files.

  • Page 120: 24-Hour Information Services

    24-Hour Information Services NEC has made it easy for you to get information and help when you need it. We offer 24-hour information services via: ™ NEC’s FastFacts Service NEC’s Bulletin Board Service ® America Online Service ® CompuServe Online Service E-mail to NEC’s Technical Support Services through a...

  • Page 121: Nec's Fastfacts Service

    NEC'S FASTFACTS SERVICE NEC’s FastFacts service is a self-help, automated electronic information service for obtaining up-to-date product application notes, installation procedures, troubleshooting tips, data sheets, technical information bulletins, illustrated parts lists, part numbers, and other information about your system. Using a fax machine, you can obtain information from FastFacts 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
  • Page 122 Order information from FastFacts as follows. If you would like instructions for using FastFacts, request document number 63233469 when prompted. Be sure that your fax machine or fax/modem is on. Have the document number ready for the document you want. At your touch-tone telephone, enter 800-366-0476 (U.S.

  • Page 123: Nec Bulletin Board Service

    NEC BULLETIN BOARD SERVICE If you have access to a modem, the NEC Bulletin Board Service (BBS) can be used to provide you with the latest information on hardware and software. The BBS allows you to download files (video drivers, printer drivers, BIOS updates, etc.) for system enhancements and upgrades.
  • Page 124 From the Phone menu, click on Dial, enter the BBS phone number (508-635-4706), and click OK. Your business phone system and/or location might require a 9 1 or 1 prefix. NOTE The first time that you use the BBS, you will be requested to provide information for a new user.
  • Page 125 After you complete downloading your file, log off the BBS as follows. Press (to continue) Enter Press (command for Goodbye/Hangup). Press Enter 7-6 24-Hour Information Services...

  • Page 126: America Online Service

    AMERICA ONLINE SERVICE If you subscribe to America Online, you can use the service to obtain information about NEC and its products. You can use America Online to E-mail technical questions to NEC’s Technical Support staff, post technical questions and messages on the Message Board, and access the NEC Software Library to download files.

  • Page 127: Compuserve Online Service

    Log onto CompuServe. At the opening screen, click on Service, type in NECTECH at the prompt, and click OK. At the NEC menu, double-click on one of the following topics, then follow the prompts: NEC Bulletin Board Information About This Service...

  • Page 128: E-Mail/Fax Technical Support Service

    E-mail over the Internet network if you have a modem. The Internet address is: tech-support@nectech.com You can also fax technical questions to the NEC Technical Support Center if you have access to a fax machine or fax/modem. The fax number is:...

  • Page 129: Internet

    INTERNET If you have a modem, you can access NEC's Home Page on the Internet World Wide Web. You can do this through a commercial online service or through your Internet account. NEC's Home Page contains general information about NEC products.

  • Page 130: Nec Technical Support Services

    NEC also offers direct technical support through its Technical Support Center. Direct assistance is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Call the NEC Technical Support Center, toll free, at 1-800-632-4565 (for U.S. only). Free technical support for hardware is limited to the length of the standard warranty.

  • Page 131: If You Have A Problem

    If You Have a Problem Your system has a built-in checking program that automatically tests its components when you turn the system unit power on. If there is a problem, the system displays an error message. If this happens, follow any instructions on the screen.

  • Page 132: Problem Checklist

    PROBLEM CHECKLIST If you have problems, go through the following checklist for possible solutions. Is the power switch on for the computer and any connected peripherals (monitor, printer)? Check that all power switches are on. Is the computer and its peripherals connected to a working AC power outlet or surge protector? Check the outlet or surge protector by plugging a lamp into the outlet or surge protector.

  • Page 133: Solutions To Common Problems

    System sounds continuous beeps Turn the system off, wait at least five seconds, and turn the system on. If the beeps continue, call your NEC dealer or the NEC Technical Support Center. System does not maintain date, time, system configuration information Replace the CMOS battery.
  • Page 134 Run the Setup Utility and check the Boot parameter settings to verify that the initial boot parameter is set for hard drive C and not for a diskette drive. System performance appears sluggish Check that your system is set for optimal operation. See your operating system documentation.

  • Page 135: Diskette Drive Problems

    Diskette Drive Problems Check the following problems to see the possible cause and solution. Diskette won't load Check that the diskette is being loaded correctly. Check that the system and monitor power lamps are on and the power-on screen appears. Check that the diskette is formatted.

  • Page 136: Monitor Problems

    Monitor Problems Check the following problems to see the possible cause and solution. Monitor screen is dark Check that the monitor power cable is connected to the monitor and a power outlet, the monitor signal cable is connected to the system, and the brightness and contrast controls are adjusted.

  • Page 137: Keyboard/Mouse Problems

    Keyboard/Mouse Problems Check the following problem to see the possible cause and solution. Image appears on screen but nothing happens when you use the mouse or keyboard Tighten the keyboard or mouse cable connection. If this does not help, turn off the system, wait five or more seconds, and turn on the system.

  • Page 138: Speaker Problems

    Speaker Problems Check the following problems to see the possible cause and solution. No sound from the speakers Check that the speaker power is on. Speaker volume is too low Adjust the volume control on the speaker. If the volume is still too low, adjust the volume through the system software, see Chapter 6.

  • Page 139: Replacing The Cmos Battery

    REPLACING THE CMOS BATTERY All system boards use a battery to maintain system configuration. Some system boards use a 3-volt lithium battery. If your system uses this type of battery (see the following figure) and it fails to maintain system configuration information, replace it with an identically rated battery from the same manufacturer.
  • Page 140 Remove the system unit cover. Observe all safety precautions when removing the cover. Locate the battery socket on the system board. You may have to remove any expansion boards in the way. NOTE This procedure is for system boards using the 3-volt lithium batter shown in the following figure.
  • Page 141 Carefully lift the battery clip until there is enough space to slide the battery out of the socket. CAUTION To maintain a tight battery contact with the socket, do not over-bend the battery clip. Battery Clip Removing the battery Remove the battery and discard in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions.

  • Page 142: Diagnostic Diskette

    DIAGNOSTIC DISKETTE If you are unable to resolve your system's problem using the Problem/Solutions topics in this chapter, NEC suggests that you run the diagnostic diskette. The diagnostic diskette permits quick testing of all major system components, individual testing of different system components, and access to various testing options.

  • Page 143: Getting Help

    Getting Help From Your NEC Dealer The NEC dealer from whom you purchased your system is a good source of help and should be contacted. The dealer is backed by complete support resources and programs within NEC.

  • Page 144: Getting Help From Nec's Technical Support Center

    NEC Technical Support Center. NEC’s repair service is designed to support your warranty and non-warranty service activity.
  • Page 145 If You Have a Problem 8-15...
  • Page 146 Index CMOS battery replacement, 8-9 Accessing Voyetra from Windows memory, 4-1 95, 6-1 RTC chip, 4-1 Accessing Voyetra from Windows values, 4-22, 4-23 for Workgroups, 6-1 COM ports, 4-15, 4-16 Activating a module, 6-3 CompuServe, 7-8 Ajusting sound, 6-3 Configuration America Online, 7-7 jumpers, 5-2 APM, 4-21...
  • Page 147 3-46 Internet, 7-10 NEC bulletin board service, 7-4 NEC technical support, 7-11 FastFacts service, 7-2 NEC’s FastFacts, 7-2 Fax support, 7-9 NEC’s ftp site, 7-10 Features NEC’s World Wide Web home back, 1-8–1-11 page, 7-10 CD-ROM reader, 1-6...
  • Page 148 Multimedia sound software Power saving features, 1-4 package, 6-1 Power supply features, 1-11 Printer port, 1-10 connector, 1-10 NEC bulletin board service, 7-4 settings, 4-15 NEC Information group, 2-2 Problems, 8-2 NEC repair service, 8-14 CD-ROM, 8-7 NEC technical support center, 8-14...
  • Page 149 8-3 memory, 4-7 if you have a problem, 8-1 menu bar, 4-5 minor problems, 8-2 passwords, 4-17 NEC Technical support center, power management, 4-20 8-14 Power menu, 4-20, 4-21 online diagnostics, 8-12 saving changes, 4-22 replacing the CMOS battery,...
  • Page 150 User password, 4-17, 4-19 VGA monitor connector, 1-10 Video player, 6-5 Video upgrade, 3-22 Virus protection, 4-20 Voltage selector switch, 1-11 Volume, 1-7, 1-13 Voyetra software components AudioStation, 6-2 Warranty repair service, 8-14 WAV, 6-6 Index-5...

  • Page 151: Measure Up

    (For United States Use Only) FEDERAL COMMUNICATIONS COMMISSION RADIO FREQUENCY INTERFERENCE STATEMENT WARNING: 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. NOTE: This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class B digital device, pursuant to Part 15 of the FCC Rules.
  • Page 152 A lithium battery in some computers maintains system configuration information. In the event that the battery fails to maintain system configuration information, NEC recommends that you replace the battery. See “Replacing the CMOS Bat- tery” in Chapter 8 of this guide for battery replacement information.

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