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Epson Equity LT-386SX User Manual
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Epson Equity LT-386SX User Manual

Epson Equity LT-386SX User Manual

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EQUITY™LT™-386SX
User's Guide
®
EPSON

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Summary of Contents for Epson Equity LT-386SX

  • Page 1 EQUITY™LT™-386SX User’s Guide ® EPSON...
  • Page 2 Disconnect the peripheral devices and their input/output cables one at a time. If the interference stops, it is caused by either the peripheral device or its I/O cable. These devices usually require shielded I/O cables. For Epson peripheral devices, you can obtain the proper shielded cable from your dealer. For non-Epson peripheral devices, contact the manufacturer or dealer for assistance.
  • Page 3 ® EPSON E Q U I T Y ™ L T - 3 8 6 S X User’s Guide...
  • Page 4 D I S C L A I M E R O F W A R R A N T Y Epson America makes no representations or warranties, either express or implied, by or with respect to anything in this manual, and shall not be liable for any implied warranties of merchantability and fitness for a particular purpose or for any indirect, special, or consequential damages.
  • Page 5 IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS Read all of these instructions and save them for later reference. Follow all warnings and instructions marked on the product. Unplug this product from the wall outlet before cleaning. Do not use liquid cleaners or aerosol cleaners. Use a damp cloth for cleaning. Do not use this product near water.
  • Page 6 12. Except as specifically explained in the User’s Guide, do not attempt to service this product yourself. Opening or removing those covers that are marked “Do Not Remove” may expose you to dangerous voltage points or other risks. Refer all servicing in those compartments to service personnel.

  • Page 7: Table Of Contents

    Contents Introduction How To Use This Manual..........5 Where To Get Help .
  • Page 8 Chapter 2 Using the Equity LT-386SX Using the AC Adapter ....... Using the Battery .
  • Page 9 Using Directories........The Current Directory ......Listing the Contents of a Directory .
  • Page 10 Appendix A DIP Switches Setting the DIP Switches ......Accessing the DIP Switches..... . . Replacing the Expansion Card Cover .
  • Page 11 Setting the Run Time Parameters ..... . Timebound Testing ......Continuous Testing .
  • Page 12 Floppy Disk Diagnostics ......Diskette Format ....... . Drive Speed Test .
  • Page 13 Appendix F Using Other Reference Diskette Utilities Using Microsoft Windows/386 ......Using Microsoft Windows, Version 3.0 ....Using VGARAM .
  • Page 14 Introduction Your Epson®’ Equity LT-386SX portable computer is a compact, high-performance system you can use just about anywhere: at the office, at home, or on the road. Its rechargeable battery lets you use it in remote locations when you don’t have access to an electrical outlet. With the AC adapter connected, you can use the computer as long as you like and recharge the battery in the process.
  • Page 15 This socket is easily accessible from the bottom of the computer, so you can install the chip yourself. Or, if you prefer, have an authorized Epson dealer or Customer Care Center install the coprocessor for you. The built-in serial and parallel interfaces allow you to attach almost any peripheral device, such as an Epson printer or external modem, to your Equity LT-386SX.
  • Page 16 The following optional equipment is available from your Epson dealer: D A 16 MHz 80387SX math coprocessor Cl A 2400-baud, Hayes-compatible, auto-dial internal modem Ci An internal RAM memory card to expand memory to 4MB Ci An external 1.2MB, 5 ‘/+inch diskette drive...
  • Page 17 In addition to MS-DOS, Epson has included two time-saving utilities that make MS-DOS easier to use: HELP and MENU. The HELP program lets you display information on the screen about any MS-DOS command.

  • Page 18: Introduction

    Equity LT-386SX and how to install the Epson internal modem, the Epson RAM card, an option card, or a math coprocessor. To install other options, see the instructions that come with the option.

  • Page 19: Where To Get Help

    Epson is confident that this policy will provide you with the assistance you need. Call the Epson Consumer Information Center at...

  • Page 20: Setting Up Your System

    Chapter 1 Setting Up Your System Setting up your Epson Equity LT-386SX portable computer is easy. Just follow the steps in this chapter. They describe how to attach the hard disk, connect a printer, and attach the AC adapter and power cord that come with your Equity LT-386SX.

  • Page 21: Unpacking

    Otherwise, you may damage some part of your equipment. Unpacking As you unpack the components, anything is missing or damaged, Setting Up Your System be sure to inspect each item. If consult your Epson dealer.
  • Page 22 MS-DOS Command Summary. You’ll also find a registration card with the main unit. Fill out this card now and mail it to Epson. With your registration card on file, Epson can send you update information. Please keep a copy of your sales receipt for warranty verification.

  • Page 23: Installing The Hard Disk Drive

    Installing the Hard Disk Drive The computer comes with an empty hard disk box installed in the main unit. Your hard disk drive, which may be either 20MB or 40MB, comes in its own package. Your dealer may have installed the hard disk. If the hard disk drive is installed, you can skip this step.
  • Page 24 2. To remove the empty hard disk box, press in on the PUSH button. When the box releases, lift it straight up and out. Store the empty hard disk box with your other packing materials. 3. Face the front of the computer and hold the hard disk drive with the PUSH button on the left and the retractable tabs on the right.
  • Page 25 4. Position the hard disk drive directly above the hard disk drive slot on the computer. The connectors on the hard disk drive fit into the sockets on the computer. 5. Keep the hard disk drive level and lower it straight down into the slot.

  • Page 26: Connecting A Printer

    (ports). You can easily connect a printer or plotter that has either type of interface. Just follow the instructions below. Of course, Epson offers a full range of printer products; consult your Epson dealer for more information. Setting Up Your System...

  • Page 27: Using The Parallel Interface

    To connect a printer to the computer, you need an IBM PC-compatible printer cable. If you’re not sure which one you need, consult your Epson dealer. Once you have a printer cable, follow these steps to connect...
  • Page 28 labeled PRINTER on the right side of the computer, as shown below. If the plug has retaining screws, tighten them by hand or with a screwdriver. 5. Connect the other end of the cable to the printer as shown in the following illustration. the clips at each side of the printer connector and push them into place.

  • Page 29: Using The Serial Interface

    6. Plug the printer’s power cable into an electrical outlet. The standard DIP switch settings for the LT-386SX define your PRINTER port as the primary parallel port. If you think the DIP switch settings have been changed or you would like a different setting, see Appendix A.

  • Page 30: Connecting The Ac Adapter

    Use the MS-DOS MODE command (or the Epson MENU program) to make these changes. See your MS-DOS Reference Manual for instructions.
  • Page 31 3. The end of the AC adapter cable is shaped like a box. Notice the plastic safety cover that protects the connector on the AC adapter. Slide the release tab in the direction shown on the tab to release the safety cover. Lift off the cover and store it in a safe place.
  • Page 32 Be sure to read “Using the AC Adapter” in Chapter 2 for more information about the AC adapter. When you are not using the AC adapter, replace the safety cover that protects the connector. 1-13 Setting Up Your System...

  • Page 33: Connecting The Power Cord

    Connecting the Power Cord Follow these steps to connect the power cord: 1. Connect the power cord to the adapter’s input socket. 2. Plug the other end of the power cord into a grounded, 120-volt, AC wall outlet. Setting Up Your System 1-24...

  • Page 34: Starting The System

    Do not attempt to dismantle any part of the computer. If there is a hardware problem you cannot solve after reading Chapter 4 on troubleshooting, consult your Epson dealer. Never turn off or reset your computer while a disk drive is in use;...
  • Page 35 To turn on your computer, follow these steps: Turn on any peripheral devices, such as a printer, an external diskette drive, or a color monitor. rive 2. Turn on the computer by pressing the power switch on the right side of the computer. Press the switch toward the back of the computer.

  • Page 36: Adjusting Screen Contrast And Brightness

    The speed indicator on the status bar shows your operating speed (16 MHz), and after a few seconds the computer begins to perform an internal self test. This is a diagnostic program the computer runs whenever you turn it on. The power-on self test checks the RAM (random access memory), keyboard, system board, and peripheral interfaces before the computer begins normal operation.

  • Page 37: Initial Screen Display

    Initial Screen Display After the computer completes its self test, a message tells you how much RAM is available: 01920 Next you are prompted to run the SETUP program: Press u t i l i t y . Running the SETUP Program When you turn on your computer for the first time, run the SETUP program to define how your computer is set up.

  • Page 38: Starting The Setup Program

    Ll Whether or not to enable shadow RAM Ll The amount of time the computer is to use for its power- saving standby mode Cl The LCD display contrast (positive: white letters on a black background; or negative: black letters on a white background).

  • Page 39: Setting The Date

    The Equity LT-386SX displays the menu below. Date imnl&te/year): (hourtminlsec): Time Floppy drive A: : 1.44 MB, 3 ‘1” drive Floppy : Not Installed Hard disk C: Type : 17 Hard disk D: Type : Not Installed Primary display : VGA or EGA Keyboard : I n s t a l l e d Scratch RAM option : Top of the base memory...

  • Page 40: Setting The Diskette Drive(S)

    Setting the Diskette Drive(s) The possible selections for drives A and B are: CI Not installed 1.44MB 3 l/z” Ll 720KB 3 l/z” 1.2MB 5 l/4” Ci 360KB 5 9’4”. Unless you have changed the setting for DIP switch 1, designate drive A as the internal 1.44MB, 3 ‘/z-inch diskette drive.

  • Page 41: Setting The Primary Display

    Setting the Primary Display The computer considers the LCD your primary display, unless you connect an external monitor to the RGB VIDEO port before turning on the Equity LT-386SX. The following definitions are available for the primary display: Cl VGA or EGA CI Color 80x25 Ll Not installed Cl Monochrome...

  • Page 42: Setting The Scratch Ram Option

    Setting the Scratch RAM Option Scratch RAM is an area of memory that OS/2 and some application programs use. The Equity LT-386SX lets you pick what area of memory you want to use for scratch RAM. If you are not using OS/2, VDISK, or a user-defined drive type, choosing BIOS stack area 30:00 provides a little bit more memory for your MS-DOS programs.

  • Page 43: Setting The Standby Mode

    Setting the Standby Mode Standby mode increases battery life by shutting off the LCD backlight, slowing down the CPU clock speed to 8 MHz, and decreasing the VGA controller clock rate. Standby mode is valid only when the Equity LT-386SX is not attached to an external monitor.

  • Page 44: Saving Your Settings

    Saving Your Settings After you have made your selections for SETUP, press exit from the SETUP menu. The Equity LT-386SX asks, Write data into CMOS and exit? (Y/N). Press N and Enter to return to the menu to make corrections. Press Y and Enter to save the settings in CMOS RAM.

  • Page 45: Inserting The Install Diskette

    Inserting the Install Diskette Follow these steps to insert the MS-DOS Install diskette: Hold the diskette with the printed label facing up and the arrow pointing into the diskette drive, as shown below. Insert the diskette in the drive so that it clicks into place. When the diskette is all the way in, the release button pops out.
  • Page 46 After you have copied the MS-DOS files onto the hard disk, your original MS-DOS diskettes become your backup copies. Store these diskettes in a safe place. See your MS-DOS Installation Guide for a complete description of SELECT and how to install MS-DOS on your computer. 1-27 Setting Up Your System...

  • Page 47: Chapter 2 Using The Equity Lt-386Sx

    Chapter 2 Use the Equity LT-386SX This chapter describes some basic procedures for using your computer. Using the AC Adapter The Equity LT-386SX can be powered by its external battery pack or by the AC adapter. When you connect the AC adapter to the computer and to an electrical outlet, the outlet supplies the power to the computer.

  • Page 48: Using The Battery

    Using the Battery The battery pack that comes with the Equity LT-386SX contains NiCad (nickel cadmium) batteries that power the computer when the AC adapter is not connected. The battery pack is rechargeable. You need to recharge the battery pack at the following times: Cl Before using the battery pack with the computer for the first time 0 If the battery has not been used for a long time...
  • Page 49 Remember the following when you are charging the battery: 0 Use only the AC adapter that comes with the Equity LT-386SX. Using a different adapter can damage the computer and/or the battery pack. Q Charge the battery for at least eight hours. If you charge the battery for short periods, it The length of time the battery provides power after being charged depends on how you are using the computer.

  • Page 50: Connecting The Battery Pack

    To maximize the charge time your battery supplies, completely discharge and then recharge the battery from time to time. To do this, follow these steps: Let the battery drain all the way down. When the Battery in Use icon starts to flash, save your work in progress (if any) and exit any program you are using.
  • Page 51 2. Make sure the power switch on the computer is off. 3. Turn the computer around so its back is facing you. Position the back of the computer slightly over the edge of the desk to make it easier to slide the battery pack into place. 4.
  • Page 52 When the battery pack is connected, you can either use the power from the battery pack or attach the AC adapter for unlimited power. To remove the battery pack, follow these steps: 1. Make sure the computer is off. 2. Disconnect the AC adapter. 3.

  • Page 53: Status Indicator Bar

    Status Indicator Bar The status indicator bar above the keyboard provides information about the computer’s operation. EXT.FD 16 MHZ Indicates when you are accessing the hard disk drive. Indicates when you are accessing the internal diskette drive. Indicates that the DIP switches are configured for an external diskette drive.
  • Page 54 SCRL CAPS The SCRL, NUM, and CAPS icons indicate whether the corresponding key functions are enabled. See “Special Keys on the Equity LT-386SX Keyboard” later in this chapter. Using the Equity LT-386SX Indicates when you can use the LCD display; blinks when the display is in standby mode.

  • Page 55: Opening And Closing The Screen

    Opening and Closing the Screen To open the screen, press the latch release button in the center of the computer (shown below). Then lift the screen back. You can position the screen at a variety of viewing angles. When you are not using the computer or you want to move it, turn it off and close the screen, as shown below.

  • Page 56: Using The Handle

    If you close the screen while the computer is on, you hear a warning beep. Always turn off the computer before closing the screen. Using the Handle The Equity LT-386SX has a convenient carrying handle. To use the handle, pull it out from the computer, as shown below. Be sure the screen is closed whenever you carry the computer by its handle.

  • Page 57: Selecting Execution Speed

    Selecting Execution Speed The Equity LT-386SX can operate at two execution speeds: 8 MHz and 16 MHz. At the higher speed, the computer performs all tasks more quickly. Select the slower speed to run application programs that have specific timing requirements and to prolong the battery’s charge.

  • Page 58: Changing The Gray Scale Pattern For Any Color

    Changing the Gray Scale Pattern for Any Color The Equity LT-386SX assigns VGA colors to 16 shades of gray (or gray scales). There is a utility program called SETLCD on the Reference diskette that lets you modify the shade of gray assigned to any color.
  • Page 59 If you are running SETLCD as a memory-resident program, hold down Ctrl and press left Shift and S simultaneously whenever you want to display the menu that allows you to change the gray scales. The LCD displays a menu similar to the one below: SETLCD.EXE Ver.
  • Page 60 The table below provides the default gray scale value for every B l a c k Blue Green Cyan M a g e n t a Brown White Gray Light blue Light green Light cyan Light red Light magenta Y e l l o w Bright white The 16 gray scale numbers listed in the right column above represent the only shades available to define any color.
  • Page 61 Items in brackets are optional. (Do not type the brackets into the command.) cc is the color number. This may be any one- or two-digit number from the column titled “Color Number” in the table above. gg is the gray scale number you want to use to represent this color.

  • Page 62: Special Keys On The Equity Lt-386Sx Keyboard

    Special Keys on the Equity LT-386SX Keyboard The illustration below shows the Equity LT-386SX keyboard. Certain keys on your keyboard serve special functions when your computer is running application programs. For instructions on how to use keys for specific software functions, consult the manual that came with the program you’re running.
  • Page 63 The following table describes special keys on the Equity LT-386SX keyboard. F1 -F10 Tab 5, Ctrl Shift Print Screen Scroll Lock Break + Ctrl Num Lock Perform special functions within application programs. Cancels the current command line or operation in some application programs. Moves the cursor one tab to the right in normal mode and one tab to the left in Shift mode.

  • Page 64: Using Diskettes

    Caps Lock Enter J t (Backspace) Home, End Page Up Page Down T+lt SysRq + Alt Using Diskettes Use diskette drives to store data on diskettes and retrieve and use stored data. The Equity LT-386SX has a 1.44MB, 3 ‘/z-inch diskette drive;...

  • Page 65: How Diskettes Work

    How Diskettes Work The diskettes you use are flexible plastic, coated with a magnetic material and enclosed in a protective plastic case. Information is recorded in magnetic patterns on both surfaces of the diskette. Because data is stored magnetically, you can retrieve, record, and erase data, just as you play, record, and erase music on cassette tapes.

  • Page 66: Caring For Diskettes

    Because of their size difference, you cannot use a 3 ‘/z-inch diskette in a 5 ‘/+inch drive or vice versa. If you have both types of drives, however, you can copy individual files or groups of files from one drive to the other with the COPY and XCOPY commands.
  • Page 67 Keep diskettes away from dust and dirt. Small particles of dust or dirt can scratch the magnetic surface and destroy data. Dust can also ruin the read/write heads in a diskette drive. Keep diskettes away from magnetic fields. (Remember, diskettes store data magnetically; strong magnetic fields can scramble that data.) Do not set your diskettes on such common magnetic sources as electrical appliances, telephones, television sets, and loudspeakers.

  • Page 68: Inserting And Removing Diskettes

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

  • Page 69: Making Backup Copies

    Making Backup Copies Copy all diskettes that contain programs. After you make your copies, store the originals in a safe place away from your working diskettes and use only the copies. For general instructions on copying diskettes or hard disk files, see Chapter 3 or your MS-DOS Reference Manual.

  • Page 70: Using The Hard Disk Drive

    To remove the write protection, move the switch up toward the center of the diskette to cover the opening. Using the Hard Disk Drive Unlike a diskette, a hard disk is rigid and fixed in place. It is sealed in a protective environment free of dust and dirt. A hard disk stores data the same way as a diskette, but it works much faster and has a much larger storage capacity.

  • Page 71: Protecting The Data On Your Hard Disk

    Use the Epson MENU utility or the MS-DOS BACKUP command to back up your hard disk files. Use the MENU utility or the MS-DOS DISKCOPY command to make copies of your system and program diskettes.

  • Page 72: Turning Off The Hard Disk

    Turning Off the Hard Disk If you are running the computer on its battery and you do not need to use the hard disk, you can use the HDDPSAVE utility on the Reference diskette to turn off the hard disk to prolong the battery’s charge.
  • Page 73 Cl Install the appropriate keyboard information for the country in which you’re using your computer 0 Allow you to start the MS-DOS Shell program. These instructions ensure that your system starts up properly each time you boot it from the hard disk. See your MS-DOS Installation Guide for details.

  • Page 74: Resetting The Computer

    Resetting the Computer You can reset the computer to reload the operating system or to restart a program. You may also need to do this if an error occurs and the computer does not respond to anything you type. Resetting, however, erases any data in the computer’s temporary memory (RAM) that you have not stored;...

  • Page 75: Turning Off The Computer

    Turning Off the Computer Before you turn off your computer, save your data, exit the program you are using, and then remove all diskettes from the disk drives. First turn off any peripherals, such as a printer, a monitor, or an external diskette drive. Then turn off the computer.

  • Page 76: Using Ms-Dos With Your Computer

    Chapter 3 Using MS-DOS With Your Computer Your Equity LT-386SX comes with version 4.01 of MS-DOS. MS-DOS manages the routine work of your computer system, such as keeping the computer’s memory organized, controlling the screen display, accepting keyboard input, and directing external communications.

  • Page 77: Changing The Current Drive

    Cl Using the MS-DOS Shell program CI Using the Epson HELP utility Cl Using the Epson MENU utility Cl Using an AUTOEXEC.BAT file Q Starting an application program. The information presented in this chapter assumes you are running MS-DOS from the MS-DOS command prompt, not from the MS-DOS Shell program.
  • Page 78 C> prompt that appears when you load MS-DOS from the hard disk tells you that drive C, your hard disk, is the current drive (also called the default drive). The current drive is the one that MS-DOS uses for all commands unless you specify a different drive.

  • Page 79: The Ms-Dos Command Format

    The MS-DOS Command Format To enter an MS-DOS command, you need to type the command in the correct format. The MS-DOS command format consists of the command name, parameters, and delimiters. The command name tells MS-DOS the task you want to perform.

  • Page 80: Entering Ms-Dos Commands

    Entering MS-DOS Commands You can enter an MS-DOS command when you see the MS-DOS command prompt. Type the command name and any necessary parameters and delimiters, and then press Enter to execute the command. You can type command names in either uppercase or lowercase letters.

  • Page 81: Using Directories

    The name can be up to eight characters in length. It is a good idea to choose a name that describes the contents of the file. You can use any characters except blank spaces and the following symbols: The extension is optional and can be up to three characters long.
  • Page 82 When you format your hard disk, MS-DOS creates a single directory for the disk. This directory is called the root directory. Because the hard disk has room for hundreds of files, MS-DOS allows you to create additional directories, called subdirectories. Subdirectories allow you to organize your hard disk to keep files of similar type or purpose together.

  • Page 83: The Current Directory

    On your own hard disk, you can create a subdirectory structure that is more complex than this one. Or you may prefer to keep things simple. Organize your disk to suit your own needs; you can modify the structure as your needs change. When creating subdirectories, note the following points: 0 Any directory can have any number of subdirectories (except the root directory, which is limited in the number...

  • Page 84: Listing The Contents Of A Directory

    CI Changing directories Cl Copying from one directory to another 0 Deleting a directory. You may also want to read about Shell, an MS-DOS program that makes it easier to perform these functions, as well as others. You can use Shell to generate a visual diagram of your subdirectory structure, to move quickly between directories, to add and remove directories, and so on.

  • Page 85: Using Pathnames

    To list the files in a different directory on the current drive, type the pathname of that directory. For example, to list the contents of the LEDGER subdirectory while logged onto drive C, type are described below.) Using Pathnames Whenever you want to access a file that is not in the current directory, you must specify the file’s pathname.

  • Page 86: Creating Directories

    Because this pathname does not begin with a backslash, MS-DOS starts in the current directory (PERSONAL), moves to the subdirectory LETTERS, then finds the file APRIL.TXT. If you did begin with the backslash, MS-DOS would not find the file, because it is located in a subdirectory of PERSONAL, not of the root directory.

  • Page 87: Changing Directories

    The screen displays a list of files in the root directory, along with the names of any subdirectories of the root directory: LEDGER WORDPROC COMMAND CONFIG AUTOEXEC BAT File(s) 18625536 bytes free The list identifies the subdirectories by the letters <DIR>. Changing Directories You can use any directory as your current or working directory.

  • Page 88: Copying From One Directory To Another

    To change from any directory to its parent directory (the directory of which it is a subdirectory), type the following and press Enter: CD . . The two periods represent the parent directory. To return to the root directory from any subdirectory, type the following and press Enter: CD \ Copying From One Directory to Another...

  • Page 89: Deleting A Directory

    Deleting a Directory If you no longer need a directory, you can remove it with the RMDIR command (which can be abbreviated RD). Before removing a directory, you must delete any files it contains or move them to a different directory. You can only delete a directory that is empty.

  • Page 90: Formatting A 1.44Mb Diskette

    Formatting a 1.44MB Diskette To format a 1.44MB diskette, follow these steps: 1. If necessary, log onto drive C. If you are not in the directory containing the file FORMAT.COM, change to that directory. For example, if FORMAT.COM is stored in a subdirectory named DOS, type CD \DOS and press Enter.

  • Page 91: Formatting A 720Kb Diskette

    At this point, you can format another diskette by pressing Y and Enter, or return to the MS-DOS command prompt by pressing N and Enter. Formatting a 720KB Diskette To format a 720KB diskette in a 1.44MB drive, follow these steps: 1.

  • Page 92: Copying Data

    4. Enter up to 11 characters for the volume label to be stored on the diskette and press Enter. FORMAT displays these messages: 730112 bytes 730112 bytes available on disk 1024 bytes in each allocation unit 713 allocation units available on disk Volume Serial Number is 1C55-14C6 Format another (Y/N)? At this point, you can format another diskette by pressing Y...

  • Page 93: Using Diskcopy

    Note Using DISKCOPY The DISKCOPY command lets you copy an exact image of one diskette onto another diskette as long as the two diskettes are the same size and type. You cannot use DISKCOPY to copy data from a 3 ‘/z-inch diskette to a 5 ‘/+inch diskette or to copy data from a 1.44MB diskette to a 720KB diskette.
  • Page 94 4. Insert the diskette you want to copy from (your source diskette) in the diskette drive and press any key. DISKCOPY copies the contents of the diskette to the computer’s memory. When memory is full, the screen displays this message: Insert TARGET diskette in drive A: Press any key to continue .

  • Page 95: Using Copy

    Using COPY The COPY command lets you copy files in several ways: CI Copy individual files from a diskette or the hard disk to another diskette or hard disk CI Copy a group of files using wildcard characters (wildcard characters are explained below) Cl Copy one or more files and give them new names LI Combine or merge files into one file.
  • Page 96 If you want to copy this file from the diskette in drive A to the hard disk but want to change the name of the copy from REPORT to FACTS, type this command and press Enter: COPY A:REPORT C:FACTS To make a copy of this file on the diskette in drive A and assign the name FACTS to the copy, type the following and press Enter: COPY A:REPORT A:FACTS...

  • Page 97: Using Backup

    To copy all files on the diskette in drive A to the current directory on the hard disk, type the following and press Enter: COPY A:*.* C: To copy all files with names that begin with the four letters MEMO and end with any single character, type the following and press Enter: COPY A:MEMO? C: You can also use the COPY command to combine a number of...
  • Page 98 CI The BACKUP command can perform incremental backups. That is, you can copy only those files that changed since the last time you used the BACKUP command. This also results in more efficient diskette use. Ll The BACKUP command can format new diskettes as it copies files.

  • Page 99: Deleting Data

    Deleting Data To delete a file, type the extension, if any) of the file you wish to delete. For example, to delete the file named APRIL.TXT from the current directory, type the following and press Enter: DEL APRIL.TXT You can delete all files in the current directory at once by typing the following and pressing Enter: DEL *.* For your protection, when you type...

  • Page 100: Using Help

    Using HELP The Epson HELP utility provides on-line information about the MS-DOS commands and programs. You can use HELP in either of two ways: CI To display the HELP menu, type prompt and press Enter. 0 To bypass the menu, type command you want information about.
  • Page 101 To bypass the HELP menu and display information about a specific command, follow these steps: 1. At the command prompt, type MS-DOS command you want information about. Then press Enter. For example, to see information about the COPY command, type the following and press Enter: HELP COPY 2.

  • Page 102: Using Menu

    Using MENU Your Equity LT-386SX comes with an Epson utility called MENU. This program gives you access to several utilities that perform the functions of some of the most commonly used MS-DOS commands. MENU lets you execute several commands without having to remember the exact format for each one.

  • Page 103: Menu Utility Options

    Because you can perform so many tasks from the Mode Settings submenus, this option is a powerful alternative to the MS-DOS MODE command. Lets you access the Epson HELP utility. Lets you run other MS-DOS commands without leaving the MENU program.

  • Page 104: Using An Autoexec.bat File

    Using an AUTOEXEC.BAT File You may find that there are some commands you need to run every time you turn on your computer. To run a command or a series of commands automatically upon startup, you can type the commands into a special file called AUTOEXEC.BAT.

  • Page 105: Creating An Autoexec.bat File

    Creating an AUTOEXEC.BAT File You can create an AUTOEXEC.BAT file with any program that lets you store a text-only file (also called an ASCII text file). If your word processing program can save a file as a text- only file, you can use that program to create an AUTOEXEC.BAT file.

  • Page 106: Starting An Application Program

    Starting an Application Program Any time you see the MS-DOS command prompt (for example, A : \ > or C : \ >), you can start using an application program. Just log onto the drive and directory containing your application program files (if necessary) and type the name of the program’s executable file.
  • Page 107 If you have a word processing program that allows you to save the file as an unformatted, text-only file (also called an ASCII text file), you can use that program to modify the CONFIG.SYS file. Start the word processing program, load the file \CONFIG.SYS, then add the following line to the file: DEVICE=EMM386.SYS You can add one or more of the optional switches explained in...

  • Page 108: About Emm386.Sys

    About EMM386.SYS EMM386.SYS is an expanded memory manager that lets you use extended memory above 1MB to emulate expanded memory so that you can use application programs that support LIM 4.0. The full syntax for the command line that activates EMM386.SYS is: DEVICE=[d:][path]EMM386.SYS[size] [X:mmmm-nnnn][Mx]...
  • Page 109 X:mmmm-nnnn represents a range of memory in hexadecimal to be excluded from the EMM386.SYS page frame or other mappable pages. This parameter is necessary only when there is a conflict with your expansion option board. You can use more than one X: parameter to exclude more than one range of memory.
  • Page 110 For example, to convert 512KB of extended memory to expanded memory and ensure that EMM386.SYS does not locate its page frame or other mappable pages in the ranges C400 to C7FF and E000 to E3FF, include this command in your CONFIG.SYS file: DEVICE=EMM386.SYS 512 X:C400-C7FF X:E000-E3FF...

  • Page 111: Chapter 4 Troubleshooting

    If the suggestions in this chapter do not solve the problem, contact your Epson dealer. Your dealer may be able to solve the problem; if not, he or she can refer you to an authorized Epson Customer Care Center. If necessary, call the Epson Consumer Information number (1-800-922-89 11) for the location of your nearest authorized Epson Customer Care Center.

  • Page 112: The Lcd Screen Is Blank

    Plug a lamp into the outlet and turn it on to see if the outlet supplies power. 4. If your computer still won’t start, contact your Epson dealer. The LCD Screen Is Blank If the computer starts but no image appears on the LCD screen, follow these steps to solve the problem: 1.

  • Page 113: The Monitor Screen Is Blank

    Then check the electrical outlet for power. Plug a portable lamp into the outlet supplies power. 5. If an image still does not appear on your color monitor, contact your Epson dealer. and turn it on to see if the outlet Troubleshooting 4-3...

  • Page 114: The Computer Locks Up

    The Computer Locks Up If the computer does not respond to your keyboard entries, try the following: 1. Wait a few seconds. Some operations take longer than others to perform. For example, a spreadsheet program takes longer to recalculate an entire spreadsheet than to record one figure.

  • Page 115: Diskette Drive Problems

    3. Try formatting a blank diskette to determine if the diskette drive is operating properly. If you cannot format a diskette, contact your Epson dealer. Diskette Drive Problems If you are having problems with the internal or external diskette drive, check the following: 1.

  • Page 116: Hard Disk Problems

    Chapter 2. Also see the instructions for setting up the hard disk in your MS-DOS Installation Guide. If the hard disk still does not work, contact your Epson dealer or have an authorized Epson Customer Care Center check your hard disk.

  • Page 117: Appendix Adip Switches

    Appendix A DIP Switches This appendix describes the DIP switches you set to define your system’s configuration. The computer uses this information each time you turn it on. If you are using the standard LT-386SX settings--that is, you are using the LCD screen in VGA mode, a parallel printer, and your internal diskette drive as the A drive-you do not need to change the DIP switches.

  • Page 118: Accessing The Dip Switches

    Accessing the DIP Switches To locate the DIP switches, follow these steps: 1. Remove the expansion slot cover on the left side of the computer. Press down on the release tab and lift off the expansion slot cover. 2. Pull out the carrying handle. 3.
  • Page 119 4. Remove the expansion card cover as shown below. Lift up on the two tabs while you press on the grated squares to release the cover. Slide the cover away from you (toward the handle). The DIP switches are located on the right side of the computer. DIP Switches A-3...
  • Page 120 Because the computer is upside down, the DIP switch numbers are upside down and the ON/OFF orientation is reversed. Take care when changing a DIP switch setting that you are changing the correct switch. SWITCH DESCRIPTION SW-1 SWAP THE FDD SW -2 PRIMARY DISPLAY SW-3 SELECT SERIAL PORT...
  • Page 121 ON‘ Enables the serial port. Disables the serial port. Selects parallel port 1 (LPT1, I/O addresses 378H through 37FH) as the parallel port. Selects parallel port 2 (LPT2, I/O addresses 278H through 27FH) as the parallel port. Enables the parallel port. Disables the parallel port.
  • Page 122 Switch 3 tells the computer whether you want the internal serial port (labeled RS232C on the right side of the computer) to be COM1 or COM2. When switch 3 is ON (the factory setting), the serial port is COM1; when it is OFF, the port is COM2.

  • Page 123: Replacing The Expansion Card Cover

    Replacing the Expansion Card Cover After you verify or change your DIP switch settings, you need to replace the expansion card cover. Follow these steps: 1. Set the cover on the computer and slide it back into position as shown below. Press firmly until the cover snaps into position.
  • Page 124 3. Replace the expansion slot cover on the left side of the computer. The cover has two tabs that fit into slots on the computer’s cover. 4. Lift the cover up into place and slide the release tab up to secure the cover.

  • Page 125: Appendix B Installing Options

    Appendix B Installing Options This appendix describes how to install the following optional devices in your LT-386SX: Q External monitor 0 External diskette drive Cl Internal modem Cl Internal 2MB memory card LI External keyboard 0 $size, IBM AT-compatible expansion card Cl Math coprocessor.
  • Page 126 5. Connect the appropriate end of the monitor cable to the port marked computer, as shown below. 6. If the connector has retaining screws, tighten them with a screwdriver. 7. If necessary, plug the monitor’s power cable into the power inlet on the monitor.

  • Page 127: Connecting An External Diskette Drive

    Connecting an External Diskette Drive Follow these steps to connect the optional, 1.2MB, 5 ‘/+-inch diskette drive to your LT-386SX: Make sure both the computer and external diskette drive (as well as any other peripheral devices) are turned off. Verify that DIP switch 7 is OFF (the factory setting). Place the external diskette drive near the Equity LT-386SX.

  • Page 128: Installing The Internal Modem

    Now run the SETUP program, as described in Chapter 1. Installing the Internal Modem Follow these steps to install the optional, Epson internal modem in your Equity LT-386SX. 1. Make sure the computer is turned off.

  • Page 129: Installing The Ram Card

    Connect the modem to a phone line. Installing the RAM Card Follow these steps to install the optional Epson 2MB RAM card in your LT-386SX: 1. Make sure the computer is turned off. 2. Turn the computer so that its right side is facing you, as shown below.

  • Page 130: Connecting An External Keyboard

    3. There is a groove in the top left side of the RAM card slot. Fit the card into this groove, and slide the RAM card into the slot. Push the card back as far as possible. 4. Close the RAM card cover. Press up on the release tab to secure the cover.

  • Page 131: Installing An Option Card

    3. Attach the keyboard connector to the external keyboard socket, labeled EXT.KEY on your computer. If the keyboard connector interferes with the EXT.FDD port and you are planning to connect an external diskette drive to this port, you need to use the external keyboard adapter, as shown below.
  • Page 132 An option card must meet certain power supply requirements. The option card cannot draw more than the specified current (Amps): + 12 Volts -5 Volts -12 Volts The option card must not interfere with options installed in the internal ports. For example, if you install an option card with a parallel port, you port (278H) if the internal parallel port is the primary parallel port (378H).
  • Page 133 Follow these steps to install an option card: 1. Turn off the computer and disconnect all cables, including the AC adapter. 2. Remove the expansion slot cover on the left side of the computer. Press down on the release tab and lift off the expansion slot cover.
  • Page 134 5. Remove the expansion card cover as shown below. Lift up on the two tabs while you press on the grated squares to release the cover. Slide the cover away from you (toward the handle). 6. Remove the bracket on the side of the computer. Installing Options B-10...
  • Page 135 7. Insert the card from the back of the computer. Line up the connector on the card with the socket inside the expansion slot. Insert the connector directly into the socket. Secure the card with the screw you removed from the bracket. 8.
  • Page 136 9. Turn the computer right side up with the handle facing you. 10. Replace the expansion slot cover on the left side of the computer. The cover has two tabs that fit into slots on the computer’s cover. 11. Lift the cover up into place and slide the release tab up to secure the cover.

  • Page 137: Installing A Math Coprocessor

    Installing a Math Coprocessor You can install a math coprocessor in your Equity LT-386SX easily. If your software supports a math coprocessor, it processes mathematical calculations much faster than without the coprocessor. Follow these steps to install the coprocessor: 1. Turn off the computer, close it, and disconnect all cables. 2.

  • Page 138: Appendix C Specifications

    Appendix C Specifications Main Unit Main memory Math coprocessor Interfaces Parallel Serial Video External diskette drive External keyboard Speaker Option slot 80386SX microprocessor; 8 MHz or 16 MHz clock speed, selectable through SETUP or software command (Ctrl-left Shift-F) 2MB (640KB standard and 1280KB extended) 80387SX coprocessor (optional) Standard 8-bit parallel, Z-pin, D-type...

  • Page 139: Keyboard

    Memory Modem Clock/calendar Keyboard Mass Storage Hard disk Diskette drives Display C-2 Specifications Internal RAM memory card slot; allows expansion to 4MB Internal modem slot; 34-pin male connector Real-time clock and calendar with battery backup 85 sculptured keys; icons for Num Lock, Caps Lock, and Scroll Lock Optional, external keyboard Interchangeable, pop-out, 20MB or 40MB...

  • Page 140: Power Supply

    Power Supply Power Requirements Physical Dimensions Height Width Depth Weight CRT mode enabled automatically by inserting a connector into the RGB VIDEO port before power on External RGB monitor supported (VGA- compatible) Externally attached, rechargeable NiCad battery pack (4000 milliampere-hours); lasts from 1 to 3 hours 12/5-volt AC adapter (can recharge battery pack while operating computer)

  • Page 141: Environmental Requirements

    Environmental Requirements Temperature Humidity Options Modem Memory Expansion cards Carrying case C-4 Specifications Operating: 41° to 95° F (5° to 35°C) Non-operating: -4° to 122°F (-20° to 60°C) Operating: 20% to 80% (non-condensing) Non-operating: 8% to 80% (non-condensing) Internal 2400-baud, Hayes-compatible, auto-dial 2MB RAM expansion card One 2/+size, IBM PC AT-compatible slot...

  • Page 142: Appendix D System Diagnostics

    Appendix D System Diagnostics This appendix describes how to use the diagnostics program to test the condition of your computer’s main unit and peripheral devices. The diagnostics program provides tests to check the following hardware: LI System board LI Memory Cl Hard disk drive LI Diskette drive 0 Keyboard...

  • Page 143: Starting The Diagnostics Program

    Starting the Diagnostics Program To start the diagnostics program, follow these steps: Insert the Reference diskette in drive A. Turn on or reset the computer. At the MS-DOS prompt, type the following and press Enter: DIAGUS The diagnostics program displays a title screen. Press any key to continue.
  • Page 144 If a database with the specified vendor name and model number exists, you see this message: Your database already exists - want to update (Y/N)? N name and press Enter. EPSON and press Enter. The LT-386SX System Diagnostics D-3 to continue...

  • Page 145: The Main Menu Screen

    To update the existing database, press Y and Enter. Now you respond to the screen prompts to update the configuration. If you do not want to update the database, press N and Enter. You see the diagnostics program’s main menu. The Main Menu Screen The main menu screen looks like this: The program’s title, copyright information, and the date and...
  • Page 146 The Run Time Parameters window lets you specify how long you want the test to run, whether you want the program to notify you of each error as it occurs, and whether to create a log of all errors that occur during testing. The Help window shows the keys you use to make menu selections.

  • Page 147: Selecting Diagnostics Tests

    Selecting Diagnostics Tests This section describes the various ways you can select the tests you want to run. To start a single test, move the cursor to highlight the test category on the main menu. Then move the cursor to the submenu and highlight the test you want to perform.

  • Page 148: Setting The Run Time Parameters

    You cannot include certain tests in a group. The tests that must run separately include: System Board Hard Disk Floppy Keyboard Miscellaneous After you select the test(s) you want to run, you must set the Run Time Parameters. Setting the Run Time Parameters To specify the Run Time Parameters, press F2 to move to the Run Time Parameters window.
  • Page 149 Type T and press Enter to run the selected tests in Timebound mode. In Timebound mode, the program runs the tests for the amount of time you specify. Type C and press Enter to run the selected tests in Continuous mode.

  • Page 150: Timebound Testing

    Next, the program requests information it needs to perform the type of testing you selected. Timebound Testing If you selected ‘Timebound testing, you see this prompt: Period :001 hr 00 Specify the amount of time you want to run the selected test(s). Type the number of hours, from 000 to 999, and press Enter.

  • Page 151: Error Logging

    If you specify a number larger than 65535, the program subtracts 65536 from your entry to determine how many times to run the test. For example, if you enter a value of 65540, the test runs four times. Error Logging When you request error logging, the program displays the following pop-up window: Log errors on disk...
  • Page 152 After selecting error logging, the program uses this device (and/or disk drive) for error logging until you indicate you do not want error logging. You can then specify a new device and/or disk drive by selecting error logging in the Run Time Parameters window.

  • Page 153: Executing Diagnostics Tests In Batch Mode

    If an error occurs during a test, note the error message and contact your Epson dealer. Your dealer may be able to solve the problem; if not, he or she can refer you to an authorized Epson Customer Care Center. If necessary, call the Epson Consumer Information number (1-800-922-8911) for the location of your nearest authorized Epson Customer Care Center.

  • Page 154: System Board Diagnostics

    System Board Diagnostics The tests listed in the System Board submenu provide a complete diagnostics check of the system board. CoProcessor test DMA Controller test Interrupt Controller test Timer test Real Time Clock test CMOS Validity test Basic Functionality Test This test verifies the operation of each major component on the system board.

  • Page 155: Processor Speed Test

    Processor Speed Test This test identifies the CPU clock speed and displays a message similar to this: Measure CPU speed in Megahertz = Coprocessor Test This test checks the math coprocessor. If the math coprocessor is not installed, you see this message: Numeric Data processor not present.

  • Page 156: Interrupt Controller Test

    Interrupt Controller Test This test performs read/write tests on the interrupt mask registers and checks for invalid interrupts. During the test, you see this message: T e s t i n g P r o g r a m m a b l e I n t e r r u p t Controller .

  • Page 157: Rtc Test

    RTC Test This test verifies the accuracy of the real time clock by comparing it to the timer 0 interrupt. During the test, you see this message: Testing When the test completes successfully, you see this message: Real CMOS Validity Test This test checks the system’s CMOS RAM.

  • Page 158: Memory Diagnostics

    Memory Diagnostics The tests listed in the Memory submenu provide a complete diagnostics check of the system’s built-in memory. BIOS ROM Test Parity test Pattern test Walking l's test Walking O's test Address test Refresh test If you have relocated any memory addresses, you must change the addresses to their original locations for the memory tests to work properly.

  • Page 159: Bios Rom Test

    BIOS ROM Test This test checks the data path of the BIOS ROM. When the test completes successfully, you see this message: System ROM module test passed. Parity Test This test checks for parity errors in memory. During the test, the program displays these messages: Testing from absolute memory location xxxxxxxxh.

  • Page 160: Walking 1'S Test

    Walking 1’s Test This test checks the voltage in the data lines for any shorts and checks for any data bits that are always 1. During the test, you see this message: Testing from absolute base xxxxxxxxh When the test completes successfully, you see this message: Walking 1s test in memory passed OK.

  • Page 161: Refresh Test

    Refresh Test This test checks the refresh interval. If an error occurs, the program displays this message: Failure in Refresh test. When the test completes successfully, you see this message: Refresh test passed OK. Hard Disk Diagnostics The tests listed in the Hard Disk submenu provide a complete diagnostics check of the system’s hard disk drive.

  • Page 162: Hard Disk Parameters

    Destructive diagnostics tests include: Hard Disk Format Auto Interleave Media Analysis Force Bad Tracks The non-destructive diagnostics tests include: Performance Test Seek Test Read/Verify Test Check Test Cylinder Hard Disk Parameters The diagnostics program may request any or all of the following parameters before performing a hard disk test: Disk drive identifier Disk drive type...
  • Page 163 Disk drive type The program displays the following prompt for the disk drive type: Disk Drive type Select drive type 2 for a 20MB drive or drive type 17 for a 40MB drive. The program determines the type of hard disk drive based on the settings in CMOS RAM.
  • Page 164 Bad track list The program displays the following prompt for the bad track list: Mark Bad Tracks (Y/N) ? Entering the bad track list is optional. If you respond Y to the above prompt, you see the following menu in a pop-up window: Add an entry Revise an entry Delete an entry...

  • Page 165: Hard Disk Format

    Start and end head numbers The program displays the following prompts for the starting and ending head numbers: Start Head number End Head number Enter the first and last head numbers on which you want to perform the tests. The default for the start head number is 0, and the default for the end head number is one less than the highest head number of your hard disk.

  • Page 166: Auto Interleave

    When you select Hard Disk Format, the program requests the following hard disk parameters: Disk drive identifier Disk drive type Interleave factor Bad track list (optional) Start cylinder number End cylinder number Start head number End head number If you do not specify the bad track list, the program performs an analysis of the surface of the hard disk to determine the bad tracks.

  • Page 167: Media Analysis

    When you select Auto Interleave, the program requests the disk drive identifier and disk drive type. After you specify the parameters, you see these messages: d a t a o n H a r d d i s k y o u h a v e s p e c i f i e d m a y b e L O S T .

  • Page 168: Performance Test

    The program displays the following messages after you specify the hard disk parameters: All data on Hard disk you have specified may be LOST... Do you still want to continue (Y/N)? Press Y and Enter to start analyzing the hard disk. Press N and Enter to stop the operation.

  • Page 169: Seek Test

    When you select the Performance Test, the program requests the disk drive identifier and disk drive type. Seek Test This test checks the seek capability of the hard disk on the specified range of cylinders and heads. The program performs a series of sequential seeks followed by random seeks.

  • Page 170: Check Test Cylinder

    Check Test Cylinder This test checks the test cylinder, which is the last cylinder on the hard disk. Perform this test if you receive a hard disk the system. When you select Check Test Cylinder, the program requests the disk drive identifier and disk drive type. Force Bad Tracks Use this test to mark bad tracks on the hard disk without formatting the disk.

  • Page 171: Hard Disk Error Messages

    Press Y and Enter to start the test. Press N and Enter to stop the operation. Hard Disk Error Messages The program displays two types of error messages while testing the hard disk: messages the program itself generates and those the controller generates.

  • Page 172: Floppy Disk Diagnostics

    Floppy Disk Diagnostics The tests listed in the Floppy Disk submenu provide a complete diagnostics check of the system’s diskette drive. Diskette Format Drive Speed Test Random R/W Test Sequential R/W Test Disk Change Line Test Floppy disk diagnostics tests may be destructive or non- destructive.

  • Page 173: Diskette Format

    Diskette Format This test checks the format of the floppy disk controller and drive. It does not format the diskette for any particular operating system. This test destroys all data on the diskette. Drive Speed Test This test verifies how fast the floppy drive rotates a diskette. Your internal, 1.44MB, 3 ‘/ z-inch diskette drive should rotate the diskette at 300 rpm, allowing a tolerance of one percent.

  • Page 174: Sequential R/W Test

    Sequential R/W Test This test checks the sequential seek, read, and write capabilities of a floppy disk drive. It performs a sequential read/write operation on the diskette in the specified drive. To perform this test, insert a diskette into the drive you plan to test.

  • Page 175: Keyboard Diagnostics

    CHANGE LINE Not Available The program displays this message if you attempt to run the Change Line Test on a drive that does not support a change line, such as a 360KB or 720KB drive. The controller displays one of the following messages when an error occurs during a diagnostics procedure: BAD address mark BAD CRC error...

  • Page 176: Controller Test

    Controller Test This test checks the keyboard controller. Scan/ASCII Code Test This test checks the scan codes assigned to the keys on the keyboard. When you select this test, the program displays the layout of your keyboard on the screen. When you press a key, the program displays the scan code and the ASCII code of the key.

  • Page 177: Video Diagnostics

    Video Diagnostics tests listed in the Video submenu provide a complete diagnostics check of the video adapter. Use these tests to check the operation of the LCD or monitor connected to your computer. Adapter Test Attribute Test 80x25 Display Test 40x25 Display Test 320x200 Graphics Test 640x200 Graphics Test...

  • Page 178: 40X25 Display Test

    40x25 Display Test This test checks the 40x25 display feature of the display adapter. 320x200 Graphics Test This test checks the 320x200 graphics display feature of the display adapter. (In LCD mode, colors are converted to 16 shades of gray.) 640x200 Graphics Test This test checks the high resolution (600x200) graphics display feature of the display adapter.

  • Page 179: 640X480 Graphics Test

    640x480 Graphics Test This test checks the 640x480 graphics display of the VGA adapter. (In LCD mode, colors are converted to 16 shades of gray.) Video Error Message The following error message may appear during the Adapter Test: DISPLAY MEMORY R/W ERROR The Adapter Test detected a read/write error in the display memory.

  • Page 180: Communication Adapter Test

    You may see one of the following error messages during this test: E r r o r - P r i n t e r O u t o f P a p e r E r r o r - P r i n t e r N o t S e l e c t e d E r r o r - P r i n t e r I n t e r f a c e I / O E r r o r E r r o r - T i m e O u t O n P r i n t e r Check that the printer is on-line, paper is loaded, and all...
  • Page 181 You may see one of the following error messages during this test: E r r o r - B r e a k D e t e c t e d E r r o r - F r a m i n g e r r o r E r r o r - O v e r r u n e r r o r E r r o r - P a r i t y e r r o r E r r o r - T i m e o u t !

  • Page 182: Keyboard Scan/Ascii Codes

    Keyboard Scan/ASCII Codes Print Screen (SYSRq) Scroll Lock Num Lock Home Page Up ** No codes - I g n o r e d System Diagnostics D-41...
  • Page 183 ** No codes - Ignored System Diagnostics D-42...
  • Page 184 ** No codes - Ignored D-43 System Diagnostics...
  • Page 185 , (comma) Right Shift [space bar] Caps Lock Insert Delete Shift SysRq Shift ’ (~) Shift Num Lock Shift Scroll Lock Shift - (-) Shift Home Shift t Shift Page Up Num Lock P ** No codes - Ignored D-44 System Diagnostics...
  • Page 186 Shift F1 Shift F2 Shift F3 Shift F4 Shift F5 Shift F6 Shift F7 Shift F8 Shift F9 Shift F10 Shift F11 Shift F12 Shift = (+) Shift t Shift + Shift Esc Shift 1 (!) Shift 2 (@) Shift 3 (#) Shift 4 ($) Shift 5 (%) Shift 6 (^)
  • Page 187 Shift 9 (0 Shift 0 0) Shift End Shift 1 Shift Page Down Shift t (bksp) Shift Tab Shift Q Shift W Shift E Shift R Shift T Shift Y Shift U Shift I Shift O Shift P Shift [ (0 Shift ] (}) Shift Enter Shift Ctrl...
  • Page 188 Shift F Shift G Shift H Shift J Shift K Shift L Shift ; (:) Shift ’ (") Left Shift Shift Z Shift X Shift C Shift V Shift B Shift N Shift M Shift, (<) Shift. (>) Shift / (?) Left Shift Right Shift Shift Alt Shift PrtSc SysRq...
  • Page 189 ** No codes - Ignored D-48 System Diagnostics...
  • Page 190 ** No codes - Ignored System Diagnostics D-49...
  • Page 191 ** No codes - Ignored D-50 System Diagnostics...
  • Page 192 ** No codes - Ignored D-51 System Diagnostics...
  • Page 193 ** No codes - Ignored D-52 System Diagnostics...
  • Page 194 ** No codes - Ignored System Diagnostics D-53...
  • Page 195 ** No codes - Ignored System Diagnostics D-54...
  • Page 196 ** No codes - Ignored System Diagnostics D-55...
  • Page 197 Num Lock Shift J Num Lock Shift K Num Lock Shift L Num Lock Shift ; Num Lock Shift M Num Lock Shift > Num Lock Shift / ** No codes - Ignored D-56 System Diagnostics...

  • Page 198: Appendix E Using

    Using OS/2 If you have purchased OS/2 (version 1.1) for your Equity LT-386SX, you need to install the LCD video driver Epson has provided on your Reference diskette to run OS/2 on the LCD display. The steps below describe how to install this file.

  • Page 199: Adding The Driver After Os/2 Is Installed

    5. To copy the BVSCALLS.DLL file from the hard disk onto the copy you made of the OS/2 Installation diskette, type the following and press Enter: COPY 6. Follow the instructions in your OS/2 Setup Guide to install OS/2 and use the copy of the OS/2 Installation diskette you made.
  • Page 200 6. Type the following and press Enter: LIBPATH=C:\OSZ\LCD 7. Press F6 and then press Enter. 8. Reboot the computer. You can now use OS/2 with the LCD. If you want to place the LCD driver in your DLL directory and remove the LCD directory you created, use the steps below.

  • Page 201: Appendix F Using Other Reference Diskette Utilities

    1. Make a duplicate of the Windows/386 Setup and Build diskette on a blank 720KB diskette using the DISKCOPY command. You can do this using the Epson MENU utility or the MS-DOS Shell, or you can type the following at the C : \DOS>prompt and press Enter:...
  • Page 202 2. Be sure that your copy of Setup and Build is installed in the diskette drive. Type diskette drive. 3. Type SETUP Windows/386. 4. When the Setup program displays a list of computers and asks you to choose the one on which you are installing Windows/386, select: COMPAQ 80386-Based Personal Computers and compatibles...

  • Page 203: Using Microsoft Windows, Version 3.0

    Using Microsoft Windows, Version 3.0 Epson provides drivers to allow Microsoft Windows (version 3.0) to function properly on the LCD. If you have purchased this version of Windows for your Equity LT-386SX, follow the steps below to install these drivers: Follow the instructions in the Windows documentation and on the display to begin running the Setup program.

  • Page 204: Using Vgaram

    5. Continue with the Setup procedure according to the directions in the Windows documentation and on the screen. Using VGARAM The VGARAM utility loads the contents of the video BIOS into the MS-DOS memory area. This increases the display speed for the Equity LT-386SX. Follow these steps to use VGARAM: Insert your Reference diskette into the diskette drive.

  • Page 205: Using Scroll

    Using SCROLL The SCROLL utility improves the LCD display for running certain graphics scrolling programs. When you are running your application program, if you notice that the top half of the screen scrolls but the bottom half does not, you can use this utility. Follow these steps to use SCROLL: 1.

  • Page 206: Glossary

    Glossary 8 0 3 8 6 S X A CMOS integrated circuit, or chip; the central processing unit (CPU) of your Equity LT-386SX. The CMOS-type chip provides low power consumption. 8 0 3 8 7 S X A special-purpose CMOS integrated circuit used to assist the 80386SX and speed up certain kinds of mathematical calculations.
  • Page 207 Asynchronous A method of data transmission in which one device sends data one bit at a time to another device. This method allows for delays of any length between characters. AUTOEXEC.BAT file A special kind of batch file MS-DOS executes automatically each time you turn on or reset the computer.
  • Page 208 BIOS Basic Input/Output System. Routines in ROM memory that handle basic input/output functions of the operating system. A binary digit (0 or 1). The smallest unit of information a computer can store. Eight bits make one byte. Boot To load a program or an operating system into the computer’s memory.
  • Page 209 CMOS RAM A special type of low-power memory in your Equity LT-386SX that records information about your system’s configuration. Unlike ordinary RAM, CMOS RAM is backed up by a small battery and is not erased when you turn off the computer. Code A system of symbols for representing data or instructions.
  • Page 210 Configuration The particular arrangement of the hardware components of your computer. Your configuration, for example, might include a printer and an internal modem, as well as your hard disk and diskette drive. Control code A character (generated by holding down the Ctrl key and pressing another key on the keyboard) that instructs the computer to perform a specific function.
  • Page 211 CRT connector The socket on the side of your Equity LT-386SX where you plug in the cable of a VGA monitor. Current directory The directory in which you are working. MS-DOS executes a command in the current directory unless you include a pathname with the command.
  • Page 212 Data length The number of bits per character in serial transmissions. Default A value or setting that takes effect when you turn on or reset the computer. Also, a response to a command the system uses unless you provide a different response. Default directory A synonym for current directory.
  • Page 213 Directory A list of files on a hard disk or diskette. Disk A general term meaning either a diskette or a hard disk. drive Disk The physical device (either a hard disk drive or a diskette drive) that allows the computer to read from and write to a disk. A diskette drive has a slot into which you insert a diskette.
  • Page 214 Enhanced Color Display. Enhanced Graphics Adapter. A type of video monitor that can display graphics. Executable file A file containing program instructions. In MS-DOS, executable files must have an extension of .BAT, .COM, or .EXE. To perform the instructions in the file, type its name at the command prompt (with or without the extension).
  • Page 215 Extension A suffix of up to three characters you can add to a filename. External command A command MS-DOS stores in a program file. The FORMAT command, for example, is stored in the file FORMAT.COM. To perform an external command, MS-DOS must be able to find the appropriate program file.
  • Page 216 Graphics Lines, angles, curves, and other non-alphanumeric data. Gray scale The mapping of colors to shades of gray on the LCD screen GW-BASIC Microsoft’s extended version of the BASIC programming language. Hard disk A sealed mass storage device you use to store data permanently. A hard disk can process data more rapidly and can store many more files than a diskette.
  • Page 217 Interface A hardware or software connection used to transmit data between equipment or programs. Internal command A command, such as DIR or ERASE, that MS-DOS does not store in a separate program file. You can execute internal commands from any drive or directory. Kilobyte (KB) A unit used to measure storage space in on a disk.
  • Page 218 Main memory See Base memory. Main unit The part of the computer that houses the central processing unit, random access memory, disk drives, and other supporting circuitry. Megabyte (MB) A unit used to measure storage space in a computer’s memory or on a disk.
  • Page 219 Modem A device that allows a computer to send or receive data over a telephone line. Monitor The screen of a CRT. Motherboard The main circuit board of your computer. Also called the system board. MS-DOS An operating system from Microsoft that comes with your computer.
  • Page 220 Operating system A collection of programs that allows a computer to control all of its operations. The operating system determines how programs run on the computer and supervises all input and output. Your computer comes with MS-DOS, an operating system by Microsoft. Option card A circuit board you install in a slot in your main unit.
  • Page 221 Pathname The list of directories the operating system must search through to locate a file. For example, the pathname for a file named CONTRACT.TXT that is located in the BUSINESS subdirectory is \BUSINESS\CONTRACT.TXT. Peripheral An external device, such as a printer or modem, connected to a computer.
  • Page 222 Random Access Memory. The portion of the computer’s memory that runs programs and temporarily stores data while you work. All data stored in RAM is erased when you turn off the computer, so you must store any data you want to save on a diskette or hard disk.
  • Page 223 Read Only Memory. The portion of the computer’s memory that contains permanent instructions and cannot be modified. The power-on diagnostic programs, for example, are stored in ROM. Unlike RAM, ROM retains its contents even after you turn off the computer. Root directory The top-level directory on a diskette or hard disk.
  • Page 224 SETUP A program you can run when you turn on or reset the computer. In SETUP you define the configuration settings for your Equity LT-386SX. Shadow RAM The feature provided by the Equity LT-386SX that allows you to copy ROM BIOS and video ROM to RAM to speed up processing.
  • Page 225 Stop bit A signal sent in serial communications to mark the end of a character. Subdirectory A disk directory that branches down from another subdirectory or from the root directory. Switch An option you can add to an MS-DOS command that affects the way the command works.
  • Page 226 Track A circular region on a diskette, which is divided into sectors. Each side of 1.44MB or 720KB diskette has 80 concentric tracks. Each side of hard disk, tracks are called cylinders. Utility program A type of application program designed to perform housekeeping chores, such as copying files, creating directories, and so on.
  • Page 227 Write-protect To prevent a diskette from being overwritten. When a diskette is write-protected, you cannot erase, change, or record over its contents. Glossary...
  • Page 228 Index AC adapter, 1, 3, 1-3, 1-11 -15, 2-14, 2-6, 2-21, 2-25, 2-26, 4-2, B-9, C-3 connecting, 1-11 -13 disconnecting, 1-13 using, 2-1 -2 AC wall outlet, 1-14 APPEND command, 3-11 Application programs, 2, 4, 1-23, 2-11, 2-12, 2-15 -17, 3-2, 3-5, 3-29, 3-31 -33, F-5 starting, 3-31 AUTOEXEC.BAT file, 1-26,...
  • Page 229 Computer, resetting, 1-15, 1-18-19, 1-23-24, 2-28, 4-4 starting, 1-15 -16, 4-1 -2 storing, 2-10, C-4 turning off, 1-11, 1-15, 2-3, 2-5, 2-8, 2-20, 2-22, 2-28 -29, 4-1 -2, A-1, B-1, B-3 -6, B-9, B-13 turning on, 1-2, 1-15 -16, 1-18, 4-1, 4-2, A-1 using, 2-1 -30 CONFIG.SYS file, 1-26, 3-31 -35...
  • Page 230 Diskette drive, external, 2-3, 1-1, 1-18, 1-21, 2-7, 2-18, 4-5, A-4 -6 connecting, 1-11, 1-16, B-3 -4 internal, 1-1, 1-21, 2-7, A-4 -6 Diskettes, 3i/2-inch, 2-18 -21 5’/+inch, 2-18 -21 caring for, 2-20 choosing, 2-19 formatting, 3-14 -17 inserting, 2-22 problem-solving, 4-4 -5 removing, 2-22 using, 2-18-24...
  • Page 231 Handle, 2-10, A-3, A-7 -9, B-12 -13 Hard disk drive, 3, 1-1 -7, 1-18, 1-21, 1-25, 2-3, 2-7, 2-24 -26, 3-2, 4-6, C-2 -3, D-20 -30 care, 2-24-25 diagnostics, D-20 -30 installing, 1-4 -7 turning off, 2-3, 2-26 -27 types, 1-18, 1-20-21, 1-25, D-22 using, 2-23-26 Hard disk performance, 2-25, D-22 Hard disk problems, 4-6...
  • Page 232 Memory, resident, 2-12, 2-15, 2-26-27, F-4 -5 read-only memory (ROM), 1-18, 1-23,1-25, D-17 -20, scratch RAM, 1-18, 1-20, 1-23 SETUP, 1-19, 1-25 shadow RAM, 1-19, 1-20, 1-23 MENU utility, 4, 1-11, 2-25, 3-18, 3-23, 3-27 -28 using, 3-27-28 Merging files, 3-20, 3-22 Microprocessor, 1-2, C-1 MODE command, 1-11, 3-28 Mode settings, MENU, 3-28...
  • Page 233 Power, off, 1-11, 1-15, 2-3, 2-5, 2-8, 2-20, 2-22, 2-28 -29, 4-1 -2, A-l, B-l, B-3 -6, B-9, B-13 requirements, C-3 supply, C-3 switch, 1-15 -16,4-1-3, A-2 Power-off period, 1-15, 2-28 Power-on diagnostics, 1-17 Primary, display, 1-1, 1-11, 1-20, 1-22, A- 4-5 port, parallel, 1-1, 1-10, 1-25, A-5 -6,...
  • Page 234 SMARTDRV.SYS, 2-25 Source, diskette, 3-19 file, 3-20 Special keys, 2-16-18 Speed indicator, 1-17,2-7 Standby mode, 1-20, 1-24,2-3, Status indicator bar, 1-15,2-1-2, 2-7 -8,2-16 4-1 -2, C-2 Storing data, 3-5-6 Subdirectories, 3-7 -8, 3-12-13 creating, 3-8 Subdirectory structure, 3-8 SUBST command, 3-11 Switch, DIP, 1-1 -2, 1-10 -11, 1-19, A-1 -6 Switches, MS-DOS, 3-4, 3-32...
  • Page 235 ernal diskette drive e x t ernal keyboard port serial port external monitor port external diskette port status indicator bar expansion slot cover handle...

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