American Megatrends 43 Series User manual

American Megatrends, Inc.
Series 43
80386SX CAT Motherboard
User's uide

MAN-643
9/23/92

© Copyright 1992 American Megatrends, Inc.
All rights reserved.
American Megatrends, Inc.
6145F Northbelt Parkway
Norcross, A 30071
This publication contains proprietary information which is protected by copyright. No part of this publication may be reproduced, transcribed, stored in a retrieval
system, translated into any language or computer language, or transmitted in any form whatsoever without the prior written consent of the publisher, American
Megatrends, Inc.
Limited Warranty
Buyer agrees if this product proves to be defective, that American Megatrends, Inc. is only obligated to replace or refund the purchase price of this product at
American Megatrend's discretion according to the terms of the warranty card accompanying this product. American Megatrends shall not be liable in tort or
contract for any loss or damage, direct, incidental or consequential. Please see the Warranty Registration Card shipped with this product for full warranty details.
Limitations of Liability
In no event shall American Megatrends be held liable for any loss, expenses, or damages of any kind whatsoever, whether direct, indirect, incidental, or
consequential, arising from the design or use of this product or the support materials provided with the product.
Trademarks
American Megatrends acknowledges the following trademarks:
C&T, Chips and Technologies, SCATSX, 82C386, and 82C711 are trademarks of Chips and Technologies, Incorporated.
Intel and i386 are registered trademarks of Intel Corporation.
MS-DOS and Microsoft are registered trademarks of Microsoft Corporation.
IBM, AT, V A, OS/2, and E A are registered trademarks of International Business Machines Corporation. XT and C A are trademarks of International Business Machines Corporation.
Revision History
6/91 Initial printing
9/9/91 Incorporated corrections to minor errors.
9/92 Incorporated corrections to minor errors.
American Megatrends SX CAT 80386SX Motherboard User's uide

Table of Contents
Chapter 1 Introduction 1
Features 1
Microprocessor Speeds 1
Built-in I/O 2
CMOS RAM 2
System Expansion I/O Slots 2
Simple Memory Expansion 3
Dimensions 3
SX CAT Specifications 4
Chapter 2 Installation 5
Step 1 Set Initial Switch Settings 7
Step 2 Install Math Coprocessor (Optional) 8
Step 3 Install SIMM Memory 8
Step 4 Install the Motherboard 9
Step 5 Install and Connect Power Supply 10
Step 6 Install External Battery (Optional) 10
Step 7 Connect Cables 11
Step 8 Install Adapter Cards (Optional) 11
Step 9 Install Floppy Disk Drives 14
Step 10 Connect the Hard Disk Drive 15
Step 11 Perform Initial Test and Configuration 15
Chapter AMIBIOS Power-On Self Test 17
POST Phases 17
BIOS Error Reporting 17
BIOS Beep Codes 18
AMIBIOS Beep Codes 18
AMIBIOS Non-Fatal Error Messages 19
POST Memory Test 21
Chapter 4 AMIBIOS Setup 2
Section 1 Running AMIBIOS Setup 25
Setup Key Usage 26
Main Menu Setup Options 27
Auto Configuration With BIOS Defaults 27
Auto Configuration With Power-On Defaults 28
Write to CMOS and Exit 28
Do Not Write to CMOS RAM and Exit 28
Section 2 STANDARD CMOS SETUP 29
Date And Day Configuration 29
Hard Disk Configuration 30
Hard Disk Parameter Table 31
Floppy Drive A and B: 32
Monitor 32
Preface

Keyboard 32
American Megatrends SX CAT 80386SX Motherboard User's uide

Table of Contents, Continued
Chapter 4 AMIBIOS Setup, cont'd
Section 3 ADVANCED CMOS SETUP 33
Typematic Rate Programming, Rate, and Delay 34
Memory Test Tick Sound 35
Memory Parity Error Check 35
Wait for <F1> If Any Error 37
System Boot Up Num Lock 37
Weitek Processor(s) 37
Floppy Drive Seek At Boot 37
System Boot Up Sequence 38
System Boot UP CPU Speed 38
Password Check Option 38
Fast ate A20 Option 38
Section 4 ADVANCED CHIPSET SETUP 41
Section 5 AMIBIOS Password Support 49
Section 6 Hard Disk Utility 51
When to Use AMIBIOS Hard Disk Utilities 52
Hard Disk Format Utility 53
Auto Interleave Utility 56
Media Analysis Utility 59
Hard Disk Utility Error Messages 61
Chapter 5 Technical Description 6
J1 - J13 ISA Bus Connectors 64
16-Bit ISA Extension Pinout 65
J14 and J15 COM2 and COM1 Serial Port 65
J16 Keyboard Connector 66
J17 Floppy Disk Connector 67
J18 Parallel Port Connector 68
J19 Offboard Battery Connector 69
J20 IDE Connector 70
J21 Reset Connector 71
J22 Speaker Connector 71
J23 Keylock/Front Panel Connector 71
J24 IDE Activity LED Connector 71
J25 Turbo Speed LED Connector 72
J26 Turbo Speed Switch Connector 72
W3 Jumper for 4 MB SIMMs 72
P8 and P9 Power Supply Connectors 73
U15 BIOS Socket 74
U16 Keyboard Controller 74
SW1 Configuration Switch 75
Onboard SIMM Sockets 76
SX CAT Memory Organization/Usage 77
SX CAT Memory Map 78
Preface

Index 79
American Megatrends SX CAT 80386SX Motherboard User's uide

Preface
To the OEM
Thank you for purchasing the SX CAT 80386SX AT- compatible motherboard from American egatrends. This product is a state of the art 80386SX-based
motherboard that includes the famous Hi-Flex A IBIOS. It is assumed that you have also licensed the rights to use the American egatrends SX CAT
documentation.
This manual was written for the OE to assist in the proper installation, use, and operation of the SX CAT motherboard. This manual is not meant to be read by
the computer owner who purchases a computer with the SX CAT motherboard. It is assumed that you, the computer manufacturer, will use this manual as a
sourcebook of information, and that parts of this manual will be included in the computer owner's manual.
Technical Support
If an SX CAT motherboard fails to operate as described or you are in doubt about a configuration option, please call technical support at 404-246-8600.
Acknowledgments
This manual was written by Robert Cheng and Paul Narushoff. The writers gratefully acknowledge the assistance of Uma S. ondal and Vivek Saxena.
Preface

American Megatrends BBS
The American egatrends BBS permits end users, OE s, VARs, and system integrators to access technical information about American egatrends
motherboard, peripheral, and BIOS products. American egatrends Product Engineering Change Notices, Tech Tips, and technical documentation are available
on the BBS. Some parts of the BBS are not accessible to all callers. Call American egatrends Technical Support at 404-246-8600 to find out how to access
additional BBS information.
Data Transmission Rates
The American egatrends BBS automatically handles modems with data transmission rates from 1,200 to 14,400 bps.
If using an HST modem, call 404-246-8780.
If using a non-HST modem, call 404-246-8782.
BBS Phone Numbers
The following table lists the characteristics of the American egatrends BBS phone numbers. The American egatrends BBS requires no parity, 8 data bits, and
1 stop bit.
Phone
Number
Characteristics
404-246-8780 Supports HST and v.42bis.
404-246-8781 Supports HST and v.42bis.
404-246-8782 Dual standard. Can handle 2400 or 9600 bps. Supports v.32bis and
v.42bis. Can handle up to 14,400 baud.
404-246-8783 Supports v.32bis and v.42bis.

Chapter 1
Introduction
Features
The SX CAT is an integrated AT®-compatible computer motherboard that uses the Intel® 80386SX microprocessor. The 80386SX provides the affordability of a
16-bit computer with the power of the 32-bit 80386DX. The SX CAT includes an A IBIOS specifically tailored for the Chips and Technologies® SCAT-SX®
chipset.
On the SX CAT, the control logic necessary for the basic AT computer functions have been compressed into one Chips and Technologies, Inc®. chip, the C&T
82C836. Another chip, the C&T 82C711, handles basic input/output functions such as serial, parallel, floppy disk and IDE hard disk drive control. Fewer
components translates into a more reliable, higher price/performance design.
Microprocessor Speeds
The SX CAT motherboard is available in either 16 Hz or 20 Hz versions depending on the version of the 80386SX processor is installed.
The I/O bus runs at ½ the CPU speed to be compatible with the original AT design. The processor runs at either the normal clock speed or one-half clock speed
for software compatibility.

SX CAT Features, Continued
Built in I/O
The SX CAT contains built in input/output controllers to save both money and system setup time. The controllers include:
● two serial ports,
● one parallel printer port, a
● dual floppy drive interface that can be configured for low or high density, 3½ or 5¼ inch drives, and an
● Integrated Device Electronics (IDE) controller for an industry standard hard disk drive.
The controllers can be configured by the A IBIOS Setup.
CMOS RAM
The BIOS Setup configuration settings are saved in C OS RA . C OS RA and the clock and calendar are powered by a built-in rechargeable 3.6V Ni-Cad
battery.
System Expansion I/O Slots
In addition to these built in functions, the SX CAT motherboard has seven I/O slots (six 16-bit and one 8-bit) for further system expansion. These slots can be
used for video graphics or other peripheral cards.

SX CAT Features, Continued
Simple Memory Expansion
The SX CAT motherboard provides easy memory expansion using industry standard SIMMs (Single In- ine Memory Modules). These modules can be either 1
MB x 9, 256 KB x 9, or 4 MB x 9. At least two SIMMs must be installed, but performance improves with four or more SIMMs. See Chapter 5 Technical
Description on page for more detailed information about memory configuration.
Required Memory Speeds
Microprocessor speed Memory Speed
16 MHz 100 ns or faster.
20 MHz 80 ns or faster.
Convenient, Reliable, Compatible Package
The SX CAT motherboard provides an easy-to-expand foundation based on a few integrated circuits assembled using state of the art surface mount technology,
which reduces cost, minimizes potential handling damage and reduces the overall size.
Dimensions
The SX CAT motherboard is approximately 8.55 inches wide and 12 inches long. It contains the standard mounting holes of the Baby AT format.
The SX CAT is 100% IBM® AT-compatible and works with all IBM standard expansion cards.

SX CAT Specifications
CPU 16 or 20 MHz Intel® 80386SX
Math Coprocessor socket for 80387SX
Chipset Chips and Technologies, Inc. 82C836 SCAT-SX CHIPSet
Memory Architecture page mode, 2/4 bank interleave
Maximum RAM up to 16 MB through ISA bus
Memory Speed 100 ns at 16 MHz
80 ns at 20 MHz
Wait States 0.3 wait states on page hit
640K-1 MB Use used for Shadow RAM or relocated above 1 MB
RAM Configurations 512 KB, 1 MB, 1.5 MB, 2 MB, 3 MB, 4 MB, 5 MB, 6 MB, 8 MB, 9 MB, 10 MB, and 16 MB configurations.
Onboard I/O Chips and Technologies, Inc. 82C711
two serial ports
one parallel port
floppy disk controller
16-bit IDE hard disk drive interface
Dimensions Baby AT size - 8.65" x 12"
ISA Bus Slots six 16-bit and one 8-bit slot
ISA Bus Speed PROC K/4, PROC K/5, or PROC K/6. PROC K can be 32 MHz or 40 MHz.
Turbo Speed Mode keyboard control with ED display (not available in 16 MHz version).
Compatibility DOS, OS/2, Unix, Xenix, any other 80386-based operating system and all multiuser DOS operating systems.

Chapter 2
Installation
SX CAT installation is a simple procedure that is eased because most of the hardware jumpers and switch setting found on many motherboards have been
removed. This chapter discusses how to connect the various connectors found in a typical computer chassis.
Installation Steps
The installation steps are shown in the following table. Each step is discussed in detail below.
Step Action Turn to
1 Set initial switch settings. Page
2 Install math coprocessor. (Optional) Page
3 Install SIMM memory. Page
4 Install the motherboard in the case. Page
5 Install and connect power supply. Page
6 Install external battery. (Optional) Page
7 Connect cables. Page
8 Install adapter cards. (Optional) Page
9 Install floppy drives. Page
10 Connect hard disk drive Page
11 Perform initial test and configuration. Page

SX CAT Motherboard Diagram

Step 1 Set Initial Switch Settings
The only switch on the SX CAT motherboard is a four-switch DIP switch marked SW1. The typical setting would be:
● switches 1 and 2 closed (or ON), and
● switches 3 and 4 open (or OFF).
This setting configures an onboard battery, no additional wait states for IDE interface memory transfers and a monochrome or VGA® or EGA® adapter.
If using an offboard battery, additional wait states or CGA™ color adapter, see the following table for switch settings.
Switch Description
SW1-1 Close (On) to enable Onboard Battery.
Open (Off) to enable Offboard Battery.
SW1-2 Close (On) to Enable Battery.
Open (Off) to Disable Battery.
Must be closed for normal system operation.
SW1-3 Close (On) for addition wait states on IDE interface.
Open (Off) for no additional wait states.
SW1-4 Close (On) for Color Adapter.
Open (Off) for Monochrome Adapter.
This switch setting does not matter when using V A or E A
adapters.

Step 2 Install Math Coprocessor (Optional)
A math coprocessor chip can speed certain application programs such as desktop publishing, Computer-Aided Design, and spreadsheets.
The SX CAT contains a socket for an 80387SX coprocessor. The math coprocessor must be the same speed as the main processor (either 16 MHz or 20 MHz).
Match up the chamfered edge with the socket U27 and carefully press the chip into the socket. The math coprocessor is supplied separately.
Step 3 Install SIMM Memory
Memory should be installed as SIMMs rather than in adapter cards because SIMM memory can be accessed faster. The SIMM modules should be the proper
speed for the microprocessor. The system must have an even number of SIMM modules (two, four, six, or eight). The minimum number of SIMMs is two. For
maximum speed, SIMM modules should be installed in groups of four. Each group of two modules is a bank. 256 KB x 9, 1 MB x 9 or 4 MB x 9 SIMMs can be
used. Both modules in a given bank must be the same size. If 256 KB x 9 modules are used, place them in the lower banks first. Refer to the technical description
on page for the possible memory combinations.

Step 3 Install SIMM Memory, Continued
Installing SIMMs
SIMMs must be installed or removed with care to make sure that the sockets are not damaged. The latching tabs on the sockets must be handled carefully so as to
not break them off. Make sure the SIMMs are firmly in place for reliable operation. Make sure that the modules do not interfere with adjacent expansion slots.
Install the SIMMs by gently sliding them into the socket. Tilt the SIMMs in the direction away from the latching tangs. Once the modules are seated, move them
towards the tangs until they snap in place. This does not require much force. The SIMMs are keyed so that it is not possible to install them incorrectly.
Step 4 Install the Motherboard
The motherboard can be installed in the case after the SIMMs are installed. The motherboard should be oriented so that the keyboard connector and the
expansion slot connectors are near the back of the case. The SX CAT motherboard is not supplied with mounting hardware, which normally comes with the case.
The hardware typically contains screws and standoffs to firmly mount the chassis as well as insulate it from the case. At least one of the mounting holes must
have a metal standoff that securely grounds the motherboard to the chassis.

Step 5 Install and Connect Power Supply
The power supply should match the physical configuration of the chassis. Make sure that the power switch is Off.
Before plugging everything in, make sure that the proper voltage has been selected. Power supplies often can run on a wide range of voltages, but must be set
(usually with a switch) to the proper range. Use at least a 200 watt (or larger) power supply, which should have built-in filters to suppress radiated emissions. The
filters help pass the appropriate FCC certification testing.
The power supply is connected to P8 and P9 on the motherboard. The connectors should be keyed to prevent mistakes. The keys on the connector must be cut to
fit in some power supplies.
Step 6 Install External Battery (Optional)
The SX CAT uses a self-contained Ni-Cad battery to keep the configuration memory alive while the power is turned off. In ordinary circumstances, no other
battery would be required. If an external battery is desired, it should be connected to J19 and switch SW1-1 should be opened (Off) to enable the offboard battery.

Step 7 Connect Cables
The following cables should be connected to the motherboard from the chassis:
● Reset Switch.
● Speaker should be connected to J22.
● Keylock switch and power on indicator connect to J23.
● Hard disk activity indicator connect to J24 unless an adapter card-based controller is used for the disk drive, in which case, attach the connector to the
appropriate place on the option board.
● Turbo ED indicator connects to J25.
● Turbo switch connects to J26.
Step 8 Install Adapter Cards (Optional)
If using an adapter card disk controller, install it in the 16-bit slot closest to the keyboard connector. Installing the disk controller in this slot improves the timing
margin slightly. The other slots can then be used on a best fit basis for the other cards.
The SX CAT motherboard contains several peripheral controllers. For maximum efficiency, these controllers should be used instead of adapter cards. The
motherboard supplies controllers for two serial ports, one parallel port, floppy disks, and an IDE hard disk drive controller. Use AMIBIOS Setup to disable the
controllers if you do not want to use them. The self-contained controllers are easily used by simply connecting the appropriate cable to the device.
The serial and parallel functions are connected using a simple ribbon cable that connects to J15 (serial port 1), J14 (serial port 2) or J18 (parallel port). Note the
orientation of pin 1 of the connectors. This end of the connector typically is located near the edge of the cable with the red stripe on the ribbon cable. These
cables are supplied with the SX CAT.