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Chapter 4 Using MS-DOS with Your Equity 386SXStarting MS-DOS...4-2Using Drive Designators ...

The Current DriveAt any given time, MS-DOS considers one disk drive to be thecurrent (or default) drive. The current drive is the drive onwhich MS-DOS

Specifying the drive designatorIf you want to access a program or file on another drive withoutfirst changing the current drive, type the drive design

If you do not have a hard disk, external commands are storedon the set of working diskettes generated when you installedMS-DOS. To use an external MS-

Entering an MS-DOS CommandTo enter an MS-DOS command, you need to type thecommand in the correct format. The command format providesMS-DOS with the in

See your MS-DOS Reference Manual for more information onthe command format and for command descriptions thatexplain which parameters and delimiters ar

You can also use the Setup program on your Referencediskette to set the correct time and date, See “Setting theReal-time Clock” in Chapter 2 for instr

The extension is optional and can be up to three characterslong. You can use the extension to further identify a file or todescribe what type of file

Copying FilesYou can use the COPY command to copy individual files orgroups of files. COPY is an internal command; you can use itany time you see the

To copy the file named REPORT to the same drive or directoryand name the copy FACTS, type the following and press Enter:COPY REPORT FACTSNow you have

To copy REPORT, FACTS,and MEMO from drive A to a filenamed DATA on drive B, type the following and press Enter:COPY A:REPORT + A:FACTS + A:MEMO B:DATA

Chapter 5Installing OptionsAdding Memory Modules...5-2Installing Option Cards...5-4Removing the

Renaming FilesYou can use the RENAME command to change the name ofa file or group of files on the same disk and directory. Forexample, to rename a fil

Deleting FilesYou can delete files you no longer need with the DEL (delete)command. For example, to delete REPORT.AUG from drive C,type the following

Printing Text FilesIf you have a printer attached to your computer, you can printtext files with the PRINT command. In general, you willprobably use a

Directories are essential for organizing files on a hard disk, andyou might even want to create directories on a 1.44MB diskette.However, you may not

This directory tree lets you separate business word processingfiles from personal word processing files, and sales spreadsheetsfrom spreadsheet files

The Current DirectoryMS-DOS always recognizes one directory as the current (ordefault) directory, just as it always recognizes one drive as thecurrent

Using PathnamesYou use pathnames with MS-DOS commands to tell MS-DOShow to find its way to the directory you want to access.Backslashes separate the d

You can use either relative or absolute pathnames at any time,as long as you give MS-DOS enough information to find thedirectory or file at the end of

drive C, the root directory was the current directory. Now youare logged onto drive A and you enter the following commandto delete the file JEAN1204.D

Creating DirectoriesYou use the MKDIR command to create directories. Forexample, to create a LEDGER directory under the root directoryof the current d

Appendix CPerforming System DiagnosticsStarting System Diagnostics...C-2Selecting an Option...C-

A directory listing includes the following information abouteach file in the directory:Cl Name and extensionD Size of the file in bytestlDate and time

This switch displays a wide-format directory listing, like this:Volume in drive C is MEMODRIVEVolume Serial Number is 354C-12E9Directory of C:\WORDPRO

The screen displays a tree diagram of the subdirectories of thecurrent directory, for example:C:\LEDGERRECEIVPAYABLSALEStSALE1989SALE1990To see a list

To see the list of subdirectories of another directory, include thepathname:TREE C:\WORDPROCRemoving DirectoriesYou may sometimes want to remove direc

You can reformat previously used diskettes. This process erasesall data on the diskette, so be sure you do not want to save anyof the data on a used d

3.If necessary, remove the Startup diskette from drive A.Insert the diskette you want to format in drive A and pressEnter to start formatting.4.When t

Formatting a diskette to 720KE3If you want to format a diskette to a capacity of 720KB in your1.44MB diskette drive, you need to use a switch with the

LlYou can use the BACKUP command to back up hard diskfiles to diskettes. Because BACKUP can split large filesacross two or more diskettes, it makes mo

Using DISKCOPY with one diskette drive1.Make sure the diskette you want to copy is write-protected.(See Chapter 3 for instructions.)2. If you don’t ha

7.After DISKCOPY copies the data from memory to thetarget diskette, the screen prompts you to insert the sourcediskette again to copy the remaining da

Alternate Parallel Port Check... C-28Parallel Port (on Video Adapter) Check...C-29 Serial Port (RS-232C Port) Chec

4. If necessary, remove the Startup diskette from drive A.Insert the diskette you want to copy from (the sourcediskette) into drive A and the diskette

Make sure you have enough diskettes to back up the data onyour hard disk drive. For example, it takes about 30 1.44MBdiskettes to copy a 40MB hard dis

0 If you want information about more than one command you__can type HELP followed by the names of the commands,each separated by a space.To use the HE

If there is yet another screen of text, you see both PgUpand PgDn at the top. Press PgUp to display the next screenof text or PgDn to see the previous

3.To select an option, use the arrow keys to highlight theoption you want and press Enter. Most options containsubmenus; keep highlighting your select

MENU Program OptionsFollowing is a description of each MENU option. YourMS-DOS Reference Manual provides step-by-step instructionsfor using each optio

Using an AUTOEXEC.BAT FileYou may want to run some commands every time you turn onyour computer. To run a command or a series of commandsautomatically

If you have a hard disk and you installed MS-DOS accordingto the instructions in your MS-DOS Installation Guide,MS-DOS automatically sets a path to th

You can also use the MS-DOS COPY or EDLIN command tocreate an AUTOEXEC.BAT file. Follow these steps to createan AUTOEXEC.BAT file with the COPY comman

Using Memory Beyond 640 KBThe Equity 386SXcomes with 1MB of random access memory.MS-DOS and your application programs that run underMS-DOS use the fir

Appendix FSpecificationsCPU and Memory...Controllers...Interfaces...

3.Type DEVICE=EMM386.SY S and press Enter. You canadd one or more of the optional switches explained in thenext section to this command line.4.Press F

The size parameter allows you to specify the amount of extendedmemory to be used as expanded memory. You specify theamount of memory in kilobytes. If

The Mx parameter specifies a particular address for theEMM386.SYS page frame. You specify the address bysubstituting a code for x from this table:I x

Chapter 5Installing OptionsYou can enhance the performance of your Equity 386SX byadding a variety of options, including the following:Cl An 80387SX m

Adding Memory ModulesThe standard Equity 386SX system comes with 1MB of on-board memory. You can add SIMMs (single inline memorymodules) to increase t

Two sockets in each bank accept only 256KB SIMMs. Thesesockets are labelled 7A, 8A, 12A, and 13A. The rest of thesockets accept only 1MB SIMMs. You mu

Installing Option CardsThe Equity 386SX has ive standard option slots and one specialfoption slot occupied by the card that controls the serial andpar

Removing the CoverTo install an option card, you need to remove the cover fromyour Equity 386SX. Follow these steps:1.2.3.4.5.Turn off the computer an

6. Facing the front panel, grasp the two sides of the cover andcarefully pull it straight toward you and away from the backof the computer (as shown i

7.After the cover’s front panel clears the power button andthe diskette drive, you can lift off the cover. Separate thecover’s sides from the inside o

IntroductionThe Epson® Equity™ 386SX is a high-performance personalcomputer which offers exceptional speed and versatility in acompact design. The com

Installing an Option CardThe illustration below shows the five standard option slotsinside the Equity 386SX. (The SP card occupies a specialadditional

Slot 5 is designed for an 8-bit option card, and slots 1 through 4are designed for 16-bit cards. As you can see below, a 16-bitcard has a second conne

Follow these steps to install an option card:1.Decide which slot you want to use. Then remove theretaining screw from the top of the metal option slot

2.Unpack the option card and adjust any switches or jumperson it if necessary. (Check the option card instructions to seeif this is necessary.) When y

4. Insert the card in the slot, guiding it straight down. Once-the connector pins reach the connector slot, push the carddownward firmly (but carefull

5.Secure the end of the card to the back of the computer withthe retaining screw.Installing Options5-13

Changing Jumper SettingsIf you change your computer’s configuration, you may need tochange a jumper setting in the computer. A jumper is a smallelectr

Main system board jumper settingsJumper Jumper Functionnumber settingJ11-2Math coprocessor installedJ12-3*No math coprocessor installedJ21-2Password s

If you need to change or check any jumper settings, perform thefollowing procedures in the order listed here, as necessary foryour system:Follow the i

Removing the SIMM cardTo reach jumper J5 on the main system board, you need toremove the SIMM card. Follow these steps:1.Remove the retaining screw th

You may also want to install an 80387SX math coprocessor inyour computer to speed up mathematical calculations. Checkwith your authorized Epson dealer

2.Remove the SIMM card from its slot on the main systemboard by pulling it straight up, as shown below. Then set iton a soft surface with the componen

Changing the main system board jumper settingsThe illustration below shows the locations of jumpers J1through J5 on the main system board. Check the t

The illustration below shows the location of the SIMM card inthe computer.The following illustration shows the location of jumper J1 onthe SlMM card.

If the jumper setting is incorrect, move it to the correct setting.You do not have to remove the SIMM card to change thejumper setting.Replacing optio

Replacing the CoverAfter you install (or remove) an option card, follow these stepsto replace the computer’s cover:1.Facing the front of the computer,

5.Check to be sure the power button on the computer is off.Then reconnect the power cable to the back of thecomputer and to an electrical outlet.Post-

2.Insert the working copy of your Reference diskette intodrive A.3.If necessary, type A: and press Enter to log onto drive A.4. At the A> prompt, t

Post-installation SetupAfter you install or remove a math coprocessor, memorymodules, or a memory card, you need to run the Setup programon your Refer

5-26 dling Options

Appendix ATroubleshootingYou should not encounter any difficulties as you set up and useyour computer, but if anything out of the ordinary happens,ref

MS-DOS is not the only operating system you can use withyour computer. If you have a hard disk you also may want touse MS®OS/2.Among other capabilitie

The Computer Won’t StartIf your computer does not start when you turn on the power,check the following:1.Is the power light on the computer’s front pa

If the computer starts but you can’t see anything on thescreen, see “Monitor Problems,‘” later in this appendix,The Computer Locks UpIf your computer

Password ProblemsIf you set a power-on password using the Setup program, youmust enter this password after you turn on your computer beforeyou can use

Removing a PasswordIf you have forgotten your password and you do not want to seta new one, there are two ways to remove the current password:LI Disab

3. When the Operation Menu appears, highlight Setupand press Enter. Then see “Setting the Power-on Password”in Chapter 2 and follow the instructions a

Setting a New PasswordIf you have forgotten your current power-on password and wantto set a new one, follow these steps:1.Turn off the computer and fo

Keyboard ProblemsIf you are having trouble with the keyboard, check thefollowing:1.If the screen displays a keyboard error when you turn on orreset th

3.If the monitor’s power light still does not come on, checkthe electrical outlet for power. Turn off your monitor andunplug it from the wall outlet.

Diskette ProblemsIf you have trouble accessing data on a diskette, try thefollowing steps:1.Is the diskette inserted properly? You may have inserted i

ClIn a drive that has a storage capacity of 360KB, use5 ‘/q-inch, double-sided, double-density, 48 TPIdiskettes. You cannot use 1.2MB diskettes in thi

Appendix A contains troubleshooting tips in case youencounter any problems while using your computer.Appendix B provides information about the power-o

If the error message still occurs, you probably have adefective diskette. Use the MS-DOS COPY command tocopy the files from the diskette onto another

Diskette Drive ProblemsFollow these steps if you are having difficulty with a diskettedrive:1.2.3.If the diskette is not turning or the diskette drive

Hard Disk ProblemsIf you are having problems with the hard disk in your computer,try the following steps:1.Be sure you have installed MS-DOS on the ha

To copy the hidden system files from your Startup disketteto the root directory of the hard disk, type A : to log ontodrive A. Then type the following

6.If you have been using your hard disk for a long time andbegin to see numerous read/write errors, the magneticsignals on the disk may be getting wea

Software ProblemsIf you are having trouble with an application program, try thefollowing solutions:1.If the application program does not start, check

Printer ProblemsBelow are some general steps to follow if you are havingdifficulty with your printer. If the problem persists and you needmore detaile

5.Many application programs (such as word processors) mustbe set up properly before they can use a printer. Check yourprogram manual to see what custo

6. If you used the option card to add an external device to yourcomputer, did you use the proper cable to connect thedevice to the option card connect

Appendix BPower-on DiagnosticsYour computer’s built-in memory (ROM) contains a series ofdiagnostics programs, which your computer runs automaticallyev

Epson is confident that this policy will provide you with theassistance you need.Call the Epson Consumer Information Center at1-800-922-8911 for the f

Power-on diagnostics error codes and messages TableError codeMessageNotesSystem Board101SYSTEM BOARD ERRORINTC (8259)102SYSTEM BOARD ERRORTimer (8254)

Power-on diagnostics error codes and messages (continued)Error codeMessageNotesHard disk drive(s) and controller1760DISK 0 PARAMETER FAILURE1761DISK 1

B-4Power-on Diagnostics

Appendix CPerforming System DiagnosticsThis appendix describes how to check the operation of the mainunit and peripheral devices of your Equity 386SX.

Starting System DiagnosticsTo run the System diagnostics program, you must turn on yourcomputer with the Reference diskette in drive A. If you startth

If the list correctly describes your system, press Enter. If adevice is missing from this list, or if you wish to change the list,press N or + and Ent

For example, you may see this menu:1 - Run test one time2 - Run test multiple times0 - ExitSuppose the first option is highlighted. If you want to sel

You see this menu:1 - Add device2 - Delete device0 - Finish modificationTo add a device to the list, select 1. The program displays a listof other dev

Select the item you wish to delete. You can delete as manydevices as necessary.When the Device List is correct, select 0. The screen displaysthe modif

To perform the test once, select 1. The program then displays asubmenu of more detailed tests for the device you are checking.To perform the test mult

Reader Comment CardEquity 386SX User’s GuidePlease use this card to evaluate this manual. Your comments andsuggestions will help us improve our public

6 Introduction

Resuming From an ErrorIf an error occurs during a test, the test stops at that point, andan error code and error message appear. If you want to record

The remainder of this appendix describes the tests you can runon the system’s internal devices and on the optional devicesinstalled on your computer.

Memory CheckUse this option to check all the memory currently installed inyour computer. The program reads the CMOS RAM to find thetotal amount of mem

Before checking the operation of the keys, you must identifyyour keyboard layout so the test is appropriate for the keys onyour keyboard. A display ap

Monochrome Display Adapter and CRT CheckUse this option to verify the operation of a monochrome displayadapter, VGA, or EGA card attached to a monochr

Attribute CheckTo check the display attributes of the adapter card, select 2.Several messages appear showing examples of all the possibledisplay attri

After checking the character fonts, respond to the prompt:Is the display correct ? (Y/N)If the characters match the illustration, select Y. If you fin

Color Graphics Adapter and CRT CheckUse this option to check the operation of a color graphicsadapter (or MGA, EGA, or VGA) card and display. This tes

Attribute CheckTo check the display attributes of the color graphics adaptercard, select 2. Several messages appear showing examples of allthe possibl

After checking the character fonts, respond to the prompt:Is the display correct ? (Y/N)If the characters match the illustration, select Y. If you fin

Chapter 1Setting Up Your SystemSetting up your Epson Equity 386SX personal computer is easy.Just follow the seven steps in this chapter. As you set up

If the characters match the illustration, select Y. If you find aproblem with the characters on the screen, select N to displaythe error message.320x2

640x200 Graphics Mode CheckTo check your 640x200 graphics mode, select 6. The screendisplays three patterned squares against a contrastingbackground,

Screen Paging CheckTo check the screen paging of your monitor, select 7. Thevideo RAM on the color graphics adapter is divided into eightindependent d

Light Pen CheckTo check the function of a light pen connected to the colorgraphics adapter card, select 8. This test checks that a light penconnected

Color Video CheckThis test displays 16 different screens, each a different color,and a message indicating the color. The screens show thefollowing col

Run All Above ChecksTo run all the tests on the menu in sequence, select 11. Whenyou choose this option, all checks for the color adapter andCRT are p

You can select the individual tests from the following menu.DISKETTE DRIVE(S) AND CONTROLLER CHECK MENU1 - Sequential seek check2 - Random seek check3

Select option 1 from the menu to start this test. The programdisplays the number of each track it finds. For example, with a1.44MB diskette, the first

If you have only one diskette drive, you see a prompt to removethe the Reference diskette and insert a blank diskette beforerunning the test. You see

When you run the test for 1.44MB, 1.2MB, or 720KB drive, yousee this prompt:Remove the disk from drive 1.Remove the diskette. The program displays the

Besides this manual, you should have the following:LIThe computer and power cordLlThe keyboard with attached cableClThree MS-DOS 4.01 diskettes: Insta

Parallel Port (Printer Interface) CheckUse this option to test the operation of the primary parallelprinter port. To perform the test, you must insert

Parallel Port (on Video Adapter) CheckUse this option to test the operation of an additional parallelport on a video adapter. To perform the test, you

First, the program checks the serial port control lines to see thatthey are able to change from high to low and vice versa. Nomessages are displayed d

Alternate Serial Port CheckUse this option to test the functions of an additional serialcommunications (RS-232C) port. To perform the test you mustins

When you continue the test, the program checks that theprinter is responding correctly. This test detects whether theprinter is offline or whether an

Hard Disk Drive(s) and Controller CheckUse this option to test the performance of the hard disk drive(s)installed in your computer. If any errors occu

Select option 1 from the menu to start this test. The programdisplays the number of each cylinder it finds. For example, witha hard disk, the first me

If an error occurs, make a note of the code and message. Thenuse the Non-destructive surface analysis (option 3 on the HardDisk Format Menu) to check

Press Enter when you have viewed the table. If the results showany read error tracks, run the write/read test (described above),and follow the instruc

Error Codes and MessagesThe following table lists all the error codes and messages thatmay appear during system diagnostics testing.System diagnostics

2Choosing a LocationBefore you set up your Equity 386SX, it’s important to choose acomfortable, convenient location where it can run properly.Select a

System diagnostics error codes and messages (continued)Error codeMessageColor graphics adapter and CRT501V-RAM ERROR503 ATTRIBUTE ERROR504CHARACTER SE

System diagnostics error codes and messages (continued)Error codeMessageAlternate serial port1201control signal ALWAYS LOW1201control signal ALWAYS HI

C-40Performing System Diagnostics

Appendix DPhysically Formatting a Hard DiskThis appendix describes how to physically format a hard disk.Sometimes called a low-level format, this proc

In addition to destroying all the data on the hard disk,formatting removes any partitions defined on the disk bySELECT or FDISK and the logical format

The formatting options work as follows:Format first scans the disk (if it has no defective tracktable) for defective (bad) tracks and lets you decide

Formatting a New DiskMany hard disk drives come with a printed list of bad tracks butwithout the bad tracks flagged on the disk. Other hard disks(such

Option 1, FormatIf you select1 -Format from the Hard Disk Format Menu,you see the following (for a disk that does not have a defectivetrack table):For

For the hard disk in the Equity 386SX, it is best to accept therecommended skewed sector (also called the interleave factor)of 1. For other hard disk

The program now allows you to edit the table of defectivetracks:At the bottom of the table is this prompt:Modify defective track table ? (Y/N)Select N

3Connecting a MonitorThe procedure you use to connect your monitor to thecomputer depends on the type of monitor you have. See yourmonitor manual for

2.Type the number of the cylinder containing the bad trackand press Enter. You see this prompt:Enter head number (0 -nn):3. Type the head number for t

Formatting the DiskWhen you are ready to start formatting the disk, you see thefollowing warning:WARNING?ALL DATA WILL BE DESTROYED INALL PARTITIONS O

You see the head and cylinder numbers decrease as the programprogresses. When formatting is complete, the program flags anybad tracks and you see a se

To start this test, select 2-Destructive surfaceanalysis from the Hard Disk Format Menu. You see thesemessages:Analyze Hard Disk<Drive 1:>Read/S

To flag the error tracks as bad, select Y. You see a list of thetracks as they are flagged and these messages:Flagging bad tracks...Cylinder is 237, h

If the program finds errors, the screen displays a table of thetracks that gave errors, similar to the one the Destructivesurface analysis displays.Af

-D-14 Physically Formatting a Hard Disk---

Appendix EHard Disk Drive TypesThis appendix lists the types of hard disk drives you can use inyour Equity 386SX. Check this table and the documentati

Type no2728293031323334353637383940414243444546474849505152535455565758596061626364-255Cylinders HeadsSectorsPrecomp6987179765 17306417611417732717102

Notes:1. Miniscribe 8425F, Seagate ST1252. Conner CP-344 or Miniscribe 8051A can be used as type 173. For Western Digital ESDI HDC or Drive Maker defa

Follow these steps to connect the monitor:1.Place your monitor on top of or near the computer. It iseasiest to connect the monitor cable if the backs

E-4Hard Disk Drive Types

Appendix FSpecificationsCPU and Memory16-bit CPUOn-board memoryROMMath coprocessorControllersDisketteHard disk80386SX microprocessor, 16 MHz orsimulat

InterfacesSerialParallelAuxiliaryOption slotsSpeakerClock/calendarRAMPower SupplyRS-232C, programmable, asynchronous;DB-9P male connectorStandard 8-bi

OptionalOptionalOptionalOptionalOptionalKeyboardLayoutFunction keys3 ‘/r-inch diskette drive, 1.44MB (high-density) storage capacity5 l/4-inch diskett

Physical CharacteristicsWidth15.7 inches (400 mm)Depth16.4 inches (416.5 mm)Height6.2 inches (157 mm)Weight(withoutkeyboard)Single diskette drive mode

GlossaryAbsolute pathnameA pathname that begins with the backslash character. Anabsolute pathname tells MS-DOS how to find its way to a givendirector

Auto speedThe Equity 386SX feature that enables it to automaticallyswitch from 16 MHz to simulated 8 MHz speed when accessingthe diskette drive (for c

BitA binary digit (0 or 1). The smallest unit of computer storage.The value of a bit represents the presence (1) or absence (0) ofan electric charge.B

CommandAn instruction you enter (usually on a keyboard) to direct yourcomputer to perform a specific function.Command promptThe symbol or message that

Copy-protected programA type of program that cannot be copied. Some copy-protectedprograms require you to leave the program diskette in thediskette dr

5.Plug the monitor’s power cord into the monitor’s powerinlet, as shown below.6.Plug the other end of the power cord into an electricaloutlet.NoteIf t

Data disketteA formatted diskette on which you store data files (as opposedto program files).Data lengthThe number of bits per character in serial tra

DiagnosticsThe tests and procedures the computer performs to check itsinternal circuitry and set up its configuration.DIP switchA small switch on a co

DOSThe Disk Operating System that controls the computer’s inputand output functions. See Operating system.Double-densityA type of diskette format that

Extended MemoryMemory above 1MB that is accessed by the protected mode ofthe 80386SX microprocessor and available to some applicationprograms and oper

Fixed diskSee Hard disk.FormatTo prepare a new disk (or an old one you want to reuse) so thatit can store information. Formatting divides a disk into

InterfaceA physical or software connection used to transmit databetween equipment or programs.Internal commandAn MS-DOS command that is stored in the

Main system boardThe board built into your computer which contains 1MB ofmemory and the circuitry the computer requires to operate.Math coprocessorAn

Memory on cardThe additional memory on an option card installed in thecomputer.MGAMulti-graphics Adapter. A type of display adapter card that candispl

MS-DOSMicrosoft Disk Operating System. The operating system thatcomes with your computer. See Operating system.Network serverThe master computer in a

Option cardA circuit board you install inside the computer to provideadditional capabilities, such as more memory or a modem.ParallelThe type of inter

4Connecting a Printer or Other DeviceThe Equity 386SX has a parallel interface, a serial interface, andan auxiliary mouse connector. To connect a prin

PeripheralA device (such as a printer or a modem) connected to acomputer that depends on the computer for its operation.PortA physical input/output so

RAMRandom Access Memory. The portion of the computer’smemory used to run programs and store data while you work.All data stored in RAM is erased when

ROMRead Only Memory. A portion of memory that can only be readand cannot be used for temporary storage. ROM retains itscontents even when you turn off

Source disketteThe diskette that you are reading or copying data from during acopy or backup operation.SP cardThe circuit board inside the computer th

TracksAddressable, concentric circles on a disk, resembling thegrooves on a record, which help to divide the disk into separateaccessible areas. There

IndexAAbsolute pathname, 4-20 -21Alternate parallel port check,C-28Alternate serial port check, C-31APPEND, 4-22Auto speed function, 2-12 -14, 3-5AUTO

Cover,removing, 5-5-7replacing, 5-22 -23CPU, F-1CPU speed, 2-12 -14, 3-5CPU SPEED switch, 2-12 -14, 3-5CTRL ALT DEL, 3-9CTRL BREAK, 3-8CTRL C, 3-8Curr

Double-density diskettes, 3-12-13Double-sided diskettes, 3-12-13Drive designator, 4-3-5Drives,see Diskette drivessee Hard disksEEGA card, see Video ca

IInterfaces,list of, F-2setting serial and parallel, 2-24 -25Internal command, 4-5JJumper settings, changing, 5-14 -21KKeyboard,adjusting angle, 1-15c

diskettes, 1-2, 3-1 -2EMM386.SYS, 4-43 -46entering commands, 4-7 -8exiting, 4-3external commands, 4-5 -6,4-38filenames, 4-9-10installing, 3-1-2interna

3. One end of the printer cable has a 25-pin, D-shell, maleconnector. Connect this end to the parallel port on theback panel of the computer, as shown

Precautions,computer, 1-15 -16hard disk, 3-23Primary partition, 4-3PRINT, 4-16Printer,connecting, 1-7 -10interface check, C-28parallel interface, 1-7

TTIME, 2-14, 4-8Time, setting, 2-14 -17,4-8Timer check, B-1Toll-free number, Intro-4Tracks, 3-10 -13TREE, 4-25 -27Troubleshooting, A-1 -20Turning off

8Index

diskette release buttonswitchpower outletoption card slotsI \parallel portIserial portmouse port

4. Connect the other end of the cable to the printer, as shownbelow. To secure the cable, squeeze the clips at each side ofthe printer port and push t

PLACESTAMPHEREEPSON America, Inc.2780 Lomita Blvd.Torrance, CA 90505MS 4-1Fold HereTape Here - Do Not StapleL

Using the Serial InterfaceIf you have a printer, a modem, or any other peripheral with aserial interface, you can connect it to the serial (RS-232C) p

Using the Mouse ConnectorThe Equity 386SX hasan auxiliary port for a mouse that uses amini DIN (6-pin) connector. To connect a mouse to the built-in m

5Connecting the Power CordFollow these steps to connect the power cord:1.Make sure the power switch on the computer is turned off.2.Plug the power cor

6Connecting the KeyboardFollow these steps to connect the keyboard:1.Turn the computer around so the front is facing you.2.Open the door on the lower

__3.Plug the keyboard cable into the socket, as shown below.Do not force the connector, but be sure to insert it all theway. Guide the keyboard cable

You can change the angle of the keyboard by adjusting the legson the bottom. Turn the keyboard over and lift each leg upwarduntil it locks into place,

DNever turn off or reset your computer while a disk drivelight is on. This can destroy data stored on disk or make anentire disk unusable.C!Always wai

The power indicator on the front panel lights up. After a fewseconds, the computer starts to perform an internal self test.This is a series of checks

1-18Setting Up Your System

Chapter 2Running the Setup ProgramThe first time you use your Equity 386SX, you need to run theSetup program on the Reference diskette to define theco

EPSON®EQUITY™386SXUser’s GuideY19299100100

Starting the Setup ProgramFollow these steps to start the Setup program:1.Turn off your computer, monitor, and any peripheraldevices, if you have not

3.Turn on your system. (Remember to turn on your monitorand any peripherals before you turn on the computer.) Thescreen displays the Operation Menu:OP

Continuing From an Error MessageIf your computer has never been set up, you may see an errormessage, such as the following:162 - System options not se

Some errors, such as Timei sinvalid, do not allowyou to set a default value, so the screen does not display theSet default value prompt. If you see on

Moving the Cursor BlockUse 4 and ? to move the cursor block (the highlighted bar)through the options on the main Setup menu. After youhighlight the op

1.At the main Setup menu, highlight Display. You seethe current display adapter card type, such as the following:Monochrome 80 columnIf the display ad

LlIf you have a composite color monitor, such as a colortelevision with a video input, try selecting CGA80column. If the resulting resolution is poor,

If you want to use your computer as a network server, you mustturn on network server mode. (A network server is the mastercomputer in a network which

To enter a password, type any combination of characters(including letters, numbers, and blank spaces) up to a totalof seven characters. Use the backsp

NoteIf you forget your password, there is a way to disable thepassword function. See “Password Problems” in Appendix Afor instructions.Setting the Fas

IMPORTANT NOTICEDISCLAIMER OF WARRANTYEpson America makes no representations or warranties, either express or implied, byor with respect to anything i

Follow these steps to change the Fast boot setting:1. At the main Setup menu, highlight Fast boot andpress Enter. The current status appears:Fast boot

When Auto speed is enabled, the computer automaticallyswitches to low speed whenever it needs to access a diskettedrive. It runs at high speed for all

2. To change the setting from disabled to enabledor vice versa, press Enter.3. Highlight * * SAVE SETTING ** and press Enter toreturn to the main Setu

If the time and date are incorrect, go to step 2 below.If the time and date have never been set, the submenucontains a template for you to fill in:Go

If you enter an invalid time-for example, a number greaterthan 23 for the hours or greater than 59 for the minutes orseconds-the computer beeps and ig

NoteThe Setup program automatically saves the time and datewhen you press Enter after typing-each one. If youchange the time or date and then exit the

2. To select Hard disk drive, press Enter. You see amenu such as the following:Change settings** SAVE SETTINGS **Drive 1:Type 17Number of cylinders977

If you want to change the drive types, and the configurationof the hard disk you are installing does not match one of thedrive types listed in Appendi

You can enter the drive type in one of two ways:ClYou can type the drive type number (listed inAppendix E) and press Enter. The screen displays thenew

7.If the configuration of the hard disk you are installing doesnot match one of the drive types listed in Appendix E,highlight User defined and press

1.2.3.Read all of these instructions and save them for later reference.Follow all warnings and instructions marked on the product.Unplug this product

8.If you want to change the hard disk settings for drive 2,press -+ and return to step 4.9. When the hard disk drive settings are correct, press ? tom

2.3.4.5.Press Enter. The cursor block moves into the diskette drivesubmenu and you see the following:Notinstalled360 KB drive720 KB drive (3.5")1

Setting the Serial and Parallel InterfacesThe serial and parallel interfaces in your computer are set up toact as the primary ports. If these are the

2.Press Enter to move the cursor block into the submenu.You see:3. If you want to change the serial port setting, be sureSerialis highlighted and pres

Reviewing Your SettingsWhen you finish using the Setup program to define yourcomputer’s configuration, press ‘? to highlight Exit at themain Setup men

If you have never set the real-time clock, the real-time clockentry at the top of the screen flashes to remind you to set thetime and date.To view the

Leaving the Setup MenuIf you want to save the settings you entered, highlight** EXIT AND SAVE* * and press Enter at a Setupsummary screen. The Setup p

Adding an Optional Memory CardThe first Setup summary screen shows the current amount ofmemory installed in your system. The Equity 386SX comes with1M

The addresses of the gap or overlap are shown in hexadecimalnumbers. (Hexadecimal is a base-16 numbering system used inprogramming.) The message tells

11. Never push objects of any kind into this product through cabinetslots, as they may touch dangerous voltage points or short outparts that could res

2-32Running the Setup Program

Chapter 3Using the Equity 386SXThis chapter describes the following procedures for using yourEquity 386SX computer:0 Installing MS-DOSCI Using a power

In addition, be sure to make a backup copy of your Referencediskette; MS-DOS does not create one for you. See “MakingBackup Copies” in this chapter an

You have three chances to enter the correct password. If you donot enter the correct password at the first or second key prompt,another key prompt app

WARNINGBe sure to remember the new power-on password youenter or write it down and keep it in a safe place. If youcannot remember the password you ent

Selecting the Operating SpeedThe Equity 386SX can operate at two speeds: high and low.High speed is 16 MHz and low speed simulates 8 MHz. On high,the

Special Keys on the Equity 386SX KeyboardCertain keys on your keyboard serve special functions whenyour computer is running MS-DOS or application prog

Keyt BackspacePurposeMoves the cursor back one space, deleting thecharacter to the left of the cursor.J EnterEnds a line of keyboard input or executes

Stopping a Command or ProgramYou may sometimes need to stop a command or program whileit is running. Many application programs provide a commandyou ca

WARNINGDo not reset the computer to exit a program unless you haveto. Some application programs classify and store new datawhen you exit the program.

ContentsIntroductionHow to Use This Manual . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3Where to Get Help . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

This section explains how disks work and tells you how to dothe following:ClUse different types of diskettes and diskette drives0Care for your diskett

Because a hard disk consists of two or more platters stacked ontop of one another, it has four or more sides with many moretracks per side than a disk

Your computer uses the read/write heads in a disk drive to storeand retrieve data on a disk. To write to a disk, the computerspins it in the drive to

D 360KB drive-With this drive, use 5 l/4-inch, double-sided,double-density, 48 TPI (tracks per inch), 360KB diskettes.(You can also use single-sided,

5 ‘Ivinch drive/diskette compatibilityDrive typeDiskette types it can read from and write to360KB 160KB, 180KB, 320KB, 360KB1.2MB 160KB, 180KB, 320KB,

Keep diskettes away from dust and dirt. Small particles ofdust or dirt can scratch the magnetic surface, destroy data,and ruin the read/write heads in

For a 5 l/4-inch diskette, it is best to write on a label beforeyou attach it to a diskette. If you need to write on a labelthat is already on a 5 ‘/q

If you have a 5 ‘/+inch diskette drive, hold the diskette with thelabel facing up and the read/write slot leading into the drive.Slide the diskette in

Write-protecting DiskettesYou can write-protect a diskette to prevent its data from beingaltered. When a diskette is write-protected, you can read it

NoteSome program diskettes, such as your MS-DOS diskettes andyour Reference diskette, have no switch so they arepermanently write-protected. This prot

Setting the Serial and Parallel Interfaces...2-24Reviewing Your Settings...Leaving the Setup Menu.2-28...

Making Backup CopiesIt is important to make copies of all your data and systemdiskettes. Make backup (or working) copies contain programs, such as the

Using a Single Diskette DriveMS-DOS expects the computer to have at least two diskettedrives, and it displays prompts and messages accordingly. If you

Using Two Diskette DrivesIf you have two diskette drives, you can use the top drive (A)for loading the operating system and application programs andth

NoteThe MS-DOS Shell program is a menu-driven programwhich makes it easy for you to move, create, delete, andrename files and directories, as well as

Backing up the hard diskWhile the hard disk is very reliable, it is essential to back upyour hard disk files to diskettes in case you lose some dataac

You see a message on the screen that tells you the disk drive’sread/write heads will remain locked until you reset thecomputer or turn the power off a

-.7.R-_-rih143-26Using the Equity 386SX

Chapter 4Using MS-DOS with Your Equity 386SXYour Equity 386SX comes with version 4.01 of MS-DOS. Thisoperating system manages your computer by organiz

LlUsing the Epson MENU programLl Using an AUTOEXEC.BAT fileLl Using memory beyond 640KB.Starting MS-DOSBefore you can run an MS-DOS application progra

NoteBefore you turn off the computer, be sure to exit anyapplication program you are using. The screen should displaythe Shell Start Programs Menu or