Epson EL 486UC+ User manual

EPSON
©
User’s Guide
663
This manual is printed on 50% recycled paper, 10% post-consumer content.

Read This First
Before you set up your EPSON®EL 486UC+ computer, read
this card for guidelines on how to get started. Also keep it
around for future reference because it provides important
information about your system and how to get technical
assistance when you need it.
Setting Up Your System
Most systems sold by EPSON Direct” are preconfigured; all the
hardware and software (such as MS-DOS® and Microsoft®
Windows™, is already installed. However, be sure to follow
these general procedures when setting up your system:
1. Install any internal options. If you purchased additional,
optional equipment that goes inside the computer—such as
option cards, memory modules, a hard disk, or a diskette
drive-you should install these devices first. See Chapters 4
and 5 in your User's Guide for instructions.
2. Set up the computer. Follow the steps in Chapter 1 of the
User's Guide to connect your system components and in
Chapter 2 to run the SETUP program.
3. Install your Windows applications and other software.
Install any Windows applications and other software
programs you plan to use. See the documentation that
came with the application programs for instructions.
Note
Be sure to make backup copies of all the diskettes you
use to set up your system and install your software.
1

4. Install VGA device drivers and utilities. If you have a
monitor that supports resolutions over 640 x 480, you’ll
probably want to use some of the VGA device drivers and
utilities that came with your computer to enhance the
display capabilities of your built-in VGA adapter. Drivers
for Windows have been installed on the hard disk. To
install additional drivers, see the README file on the
Utility diskette for instructions.
Where to Get Help
EPSON provides the following support services through
EPSON Direct and the EPSON Connection:“”
Technical assistance with the installation, configuration,
and operation of EPSON products
Assistance in locating your nearest Authorized EPSON
Customer Care Center
Assistance with Extra Care Road Service
Sales of accessories, manuals, or parts for EPSON products
through EPSON Accessories at [phone]
Customer relations
EPSON technical information library fax service
Product literature on current and new products.
If you need help with any software you are using, see the
documentation that came with it for technical support.
EPSON Direct: [phone]
EPSON Connection: [phone]
2

CompuServe On-line Support
If you have a modem, the fastest way to access helpful tips,
specifications, drivers, application notes, tables for DIP switch
or jumper settings, and bulletins for EPSON products is
through the Epson America Forum on CompuServe.®
If you are not currently a member of CompuServe, you are
eligible for a free introductory membership as an owner of an
EPSON product. This membership entitles you to:
0 An introductory $15 credit on CompuServe
0 Your own user ID and password
0 A complimentary subscription to Compu Serve Magazine,
CompuServe’s monthly publication.
To take advantage of this offer, call [phone] in the United
States and Canada and ask for representative #529. In other
countries, call the following U.S. telephone number:
[phone], or your local CompuServe access number.
If you are already a CompuServe member, simply type
GO EPSON at the menu prompt to reach the Epson America
Forum.
3

Important Record lnformation
Take a moment to write down some important information
about your system. You can easily refer to this card if you call
for assistance.
Computer serial number:
Purchase date:
Monitor serial number:
Printer serial number:
Otherdevice serial number:
Otherdevice serial number:
Option cardsinstalled:
Slot I:Slot 2:
Slot 3: Slot 4:
Slot 5:
MSDOSversion and serial number:
Windowsversion and serial number:
Software Version
program number
Serial
number
EPSON is a registered trademark of Seiko Epson Corporation.
EPSON Direct and EPSON Connection are service marks of Epson America, Inc.
Other product names used herein are for identification purposes only and may be
trademarks of their respective companies.
Copyright © 1994 by Epson America, Inc.
400290100-l
Torrance, CA 6/94

IMPORTANT NOTICE
DISCLAIMER OF WARRANTY
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
ofmerchantability and fitness for a particular purpose or for any indirect, special, or
consequential damages. Some states do not allow the exclusion of incidental or
consequential damages, so this exclusion may not apply to you.
COPYRlGHT NOTICE
All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval
system, or transmitted, in any form or by any means, electronic, mechanical,
photocopying, recording, or otherwise, without the prior written permission of Epson
America, Inc. No patent liability is assumed with respect to the use of information
contained herein. Nor is any liability assumed for damages resulting from the use of the
information contained herein. Further, this publication and features described herein are
subject to change without notice.
TRADEMARKS
EPSON is a registered trademark of Seiko Epson Corporation
EPSON Connection is a service mark of Epson America, Inc
General notice: Other product names used herein are for identification purposes only and
may be trademarks of their respective owners. EPSON disclaims any and all rights in
those marks.
Copyright © 1994 by Epson America, Inc. 400275200-l
Torrance, California, USA 6/94
ii

Important Safety Instructions
Read all of these instructions and save them for later reference. Follow
all warnings and instructions marked on the computer.
Unplug the computer before cleaning. Clean with a damp cloth only.
Do not spill liquid on the computer.
Do not place the computer on an unstable surface or near a radiator
or heat register.
Do not block or cover the openings in the computer’s cabinet. Do not
insert objects through the slots.
Use only the type of power source indicated on the computer’s label.
Connect all equipment to properly grounded power outlets. Avoid
using outlets on the same circuit as photocopiers or air control
systems that regularly switch on and off.
Do not let the computer’s power cord become damaged or frayed.
If you use an extension cord with the computer, make sure the total
ampere rating of the devices plugged into the extension cord does
not exceed the cord’s ampere rating. Also, make sure the total of all
devices plugged into the wall outlet does not exceed 15 amperes.
Except as specifically explained in this User's Guide, do not attempt
to service the computer yourself. Adjust only those controls that are
covered by the operating instructions.
Unplug the computer and refer servicing to qualified service
personnel under the following conditions:
If the power cord or plug is damaged; if liquid has entered the
computer; if the computer has been dropped or the cabinet damaged;
if the computer does not operate normally or exhibits a distinct
change in performance.
If you plan to use the computer in Germany, observe the following:
To provide adequate short-circuit protection and over-current
protection for this computer, the building installation must be
protected by a 16 Amp circuit breaker.
Beim AnschluB des Computers an die Netzversorgung muB
sichergestellt werden, dab die Gebäudeinstallation mit einem
16 A Überstromschutzschalter abgesichert ist.
iii

Importantes instructions de sécurité
Lire attentivement les instructions suivantes et les conserver pour les
consulter en cas de besoin. Observer soigneusement tous les
avertissements et directives marques sur l’ordinateur.
lDebrancher l’ordinateur avant de le nettoyer. N’utiliser qu’un chiffon
humide. Veiller a ne pas renverser de liquides sur l’appareil.
lNe pas placer l’ordinateur sur une surface instable ni près dune
source de chaleur.
lNe pas bloquer ni couvrir les orifices d’aération de l’appareil. Ne pas
introduire d’objets dans les ouvertures.
lUtiliser seulement le type de source d’alimentation électrique indiqué
sur l’etiquette.
lTout l’equipement doit être branche sur des prises de courant avec
contact de terre. Ne jamais utiliser une prise sur le même circuit
qu’un appareil a photocopies ou un systeme de contrôle de
ventilation avec commutation marche-arrêt automatique.
lS’assurer que le cordon d’alimentation de l’ordinateur n’est pas
abîmé ni effiloché.
lDans le cas ou on utilise un cordon de rallonge avec l’ordinateur,
s’assurer que l’intensite en amperes requise pour tous les appareils
branches sur ce cordon ne soit pas superieure a la capacite du cordon.
S’assurer aussi que cette intenste ne depasse jamais la somme de 15
amperes pour l’ensemble des appareils.
lSauf dans les cas specifiques expliques dans ce manuel de l’usager,
ne pas essayer d’entretenir ou de reparer l’ordinateur soi-même.
N’ajuster que les commandes décrites dans les directives.
lDebrancher l’ordinateur et contacter un technicien qualifié dans les
circonstances suivantes:
Si le cordon ou la prise sont abimes; si un liquide a pénétré a
l’interieur de l’appareil; si on a laisse tomber l’appareil ou si le boîtier
est endommage; si l’ordinateur ne fonctionne pas normalement ou
fonctionne d'une manière tres différente de l’ordinaire.
lPour utiliser l’ordinateur en Allemagne, il est nécessaire que le
batiment soit muni d’un disjoncteur de 16 amperes pour proteger
l’ordinateur contre les courts-circuits et le survoltage.
iv

lntroduction
Your new EPSON®computer offers the following features:
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
Intel®486SW 25 MHz, 486DW 33 MHz, 486DX2/ 50, or
486DX2/ 66 MHz microprocessor
4MB of internal memory, expandable to 64MB
System and video BIOS shadow RAM
SKI3 of internal processor cache, with support for 64KB,
128KB, or 256KB of external cache
512KB of on board video memory, expandable to 1MB
Math coprocessor built into the microprocessor on the DX
and DX2 systems
Built-in VGA port
Two built-in serial ports and one built-in parallel port
One built-in PSI 2TMcompatible keyboard port and one
built-in PS/ 2 compatible mouse port
Three 16-bit, full-length and two 8-bit, half-length ISA
option slots (if your system has a DXor DX2 processor,
access to the bottom 16-bit slot may be restricted by the
heat sink/ fan assembly on the processor)
Support for up to four storage devices (two externally
accessible and two internal)
Password security.
Introduction 1

Using the built-in interfaces, you can connect most of your
peripheral devices directly to the computer, so you do not have
to install option cards. You can use the option slots to enhance
your system with extra functions such as a modem card, a
network controller card, or additional interface ports.
The shadow RAM feature speeds up processing by moving the
system and video BIOS into the RAM area of memory.
With the standard 512KB of video RAM, the VGA controller
supports standard resolutions up to 640 x 480 in 16 colors and
extended resolutions up to 640 x 480 in 256 colors or 1024 x 768
in 16 colors (interlaced or non-interlaced). When you upgrade
to 1MB of video RAM, the system supports extended
resolutions up to 1024 x 768 in 256 colors.
Your system may have been configured for you. If so,
everything you need to get started is already in place. Your
hardware configuration options have been set to ensure
optimal system performance. The hard disk drive already
contains the MS-DOS®operating system and Microsoft@
Windows.TMIn addition, the drivers needed to take advantage
of your system’s enhanced video resolutions have been
installed for you. Just connect your keyboard, mouse, and
monitor and you’re ready to go.
VGA Drivers
Your computer comes with VGA drivers for use with the
integrated VGA interface. With these drivers, you can take
advantage of the extended VGA features such as high
resolutions and 132-column text mode when you run popular
application programs. If your system was configured for you,
these drivers are already installed. If you need to install them
yourself, a README file on your Utility diskette describes how
to install the VGA drivers for common application programs.
2 Introduction

OptionaI Equipment
You can easily upgrade your computer by installing additional
memory and a wide variety of options, as described below.
(Installation instructions are provided in Chapters 4 and 5.)
System Memory
By adding 4MB, SMB, 16MB, and 32MB SIMMs (single inline
memory modules) to the main system board, you can expand
the computer’s memory up to 64MB.
Cache Memory
You can increase your cache memory to 64KB, 128KB, or 256KB
by installing SRAM chips on the main system board.
Additional cache allows your system to access frequently used
data faster, improving overall system performance.
Video Memory
You can install video memory chips to increase the video
memory to lMB, allowing you to use higher resolutions with
more colors.
Microprocessor
You can upgrade your system with these microprocessors:
486SXJ 33
486DW 33
486DX2150
486DX2166.
Introduction 3

Math Coprocessor
You automatically install a math coprocessor when you
upgrade your system with a DX or DX2 microprocessor,
because a math coprocessor is built into the 486DX and 486DX2
chips.
Drives
Your system can support up to four mass storage devices,
including hard disk drives, diskette drives, a tape drive, a
CD-ROM drive, or an optical drive. As your storage needs
expand, you can install additional drives. Some restrictions
apply however; see Appendix A for more information.
How to Use This Manual
This manual contains the information you need to get the best
results from your computer. You don’t have to read everything
in this book; see the following chapter summaries to find the
sections you need.
Chapter 1 provides simple instructions for setting up your
system and connecting peripheral devices such as the monitor
and printer.
Chapter 2 describes how to run the SETUP program to define
your computer’s configuration. You may need to do this the
first time you use your computer, or later if you change the
configuration.
Chapter 3 covers general operating procedures, such as
resetting the computer, using the password, and changing the
processor speed.
4 Introduction

Chapter 4 describes how to remove and replace the computer’s
cover, change jumper settings, and install optional equipment
such as microprocessor upgrades, option cards, and memory
modules.
Chapter 5 explains how to install and remove disk drives.
Chapter 6 contains troubleshooting tips.
Appendix A lists the specifications of your computer and the
operating environments that have been tested on your system.
At the end of this manual you’ll find an Index and a list of U.S.
and international marketing locations.
Conventions Used in This Manual
This manual uses the following conventions in the text:
Introduction 5

Where to Get Help
If you purchased your computer in the United States or
Canada, EPSON provides customer support and service
through a network of Authorized EPSON Customer Care
Centers. EPSON also provides support services through the
EPSON Connection.” In the United States, dial [phone].
In Canada, dial (800) GO-EPSON.
Call the EPSON Connection for the following:
0 Technical assistance with the installation, configuration,
and operation of EPSON products
0 Assistance in locating your nearest Authorized EPSON
Reseller or Customer Care Center
0 Customer relations
0 EPSON technical information library fax service
0 Product literature on current and new products.
You can purchase accessories, manuals, or parts for EPSON
products from EPSON Accessories at [phone] (U.S. sales
only). In Canada, call (800) GO-EPSON.
When you call for technical assistance, be ready to identify
your system and its configuration, and provide any error
messages to the support staff. See Chapter 6 for more
information.
If you purchased your computer outside the United States or
Canada, contact your EPSON dealer or the marketing location
nearest you for customer support and service. International
marketing locations are listed at the end of this manual.
6 Introduction

If you need help with any software application program you
are using, see the documentation that came with that program
for technical support information.
CompuServe On-line Support
If you have a modem, the fastest way to access helpful tips,
specifications, drivers, application notes, tables for DIP switch
or jumper settings, and bulletins for EPSON products is
through the Epson America Forum on CompuServe.®
If you are not currently a member of CompuServe, you are
eligible for a free introductory membership as an owner of an
EPSON product. This membership entitles you to:
0 An introductory $15 credit on CompuServe
0 Your own user ID and password
0 A complimentary subscription to CompuServe Magazine,
CompuServe’s monthly publication.
To take advantage of this offer, call [phone] in the United
States and Canada and ask for representative #529. In other
countries, call the following U.S. telephone number:
[phone], or your local CompuServe access number.
If you are already a CompuServe member, simply type
GO EPSON at the menu prompt to reach the Epson America
Forum.
Introduction 7

Contents
Introduction
VGA Drivers........................
Optional Equipment ........................
System Memory........................
Cache Memory........................
Video Memory........................
Microprocessor........................
Math Coprocessor........................
Drives........................
How to Use This Manual........................
Conventions Used in This Manual........................
Where to Get Help........................
CompuServe On-line Support ........................
2
3
3
3
3
3
4
4
4
5
6
7
Chapter 1
Setting Up Your-System
Getting Started........................ 1-l
Choosing a Location........................ l-l
Unpacking Your Computer ........................ l-2
Connecting Peripheral Devices ........................ l-3
Connecting a Keyboard........................ l-3
Connecting a Mouse..................... .
1-4
Connecting a Monitor........................ l-4
Connecting a Printer or Other Device........................ l-5
Connecting the Power Cord........................ l-6
Turning On the Computer ........................ l-7
Turning Off the Computer........................ l-9
Chapter 2
Running the SETUP Program
Starting the SETUP Program......................
2-2
The System Setup Option........................
2-3
Setting the Time and Date ....................
2-3
Setting the Video Display Type.................
2-4
V

Checking System Memory ........................
2-4
Setting the Diskette Drive(s) ........................
2-4
The Fixed Disk Setup Option ....................................
2-5
Defining Your Own Drive Type ........................
2-5
The Advanced System Setup Option........................
2-6
Configuring Cache Memory........................
2-6
Configuring Memory Shadow........................
2-6
Configuring Chipset Registers
2-7
.......................
Setting the Boot Options
2-8 ........................
The System Security and Anti-Virus Options
2-9
........................
Entering or Changing a Password........................
2-10
Deleting Passwords ........................
2-11
Using the Diskette Access Option
2-11
........................
The System Summary Option
2-12
........................
Exiting SETUP ................................................
2-12
Post-SETUP Procedures
2-13
................................................
Chapter 3 Using Your Computer
Working Comfortably 3-l ........................
Inserting and Removing Disks
3-2
........................
Stopping a Command or Program
3-3
........................
Resetting the Computer
3-4
........................
Using a Password ........................
3-5
Changing the Processor Speed
3-6 ........................
Chapter 4 Installing and Removing Options
Removing the Cover ........................
4-2
Replacing the Cover ........................
4-4
Locating the Internal Components ........................
4-5
Changing the Jumper Settings ........................
4-6
Setting the Jumpers ........................
4-8
Installing Memory Modules (SIMMs) ........................
4-10
Inserting SIMMs ........................
4-11
Removing SIMMs ........................
4-12
Installing an Option Card ........................
4-14
Removing an Option Card ........................
4-18
Removing the Option Card Connector Board
4-18
........................
vi

Replacing the Option Card Connector Board...........
Adding Video Memory ........................
Installing the Video Chips ........................
Installing External Cache ........................
Installing the Cache Chips ........................
Upgrading the Microprocessor ........................
Replacing the Processor Chip ........................
Post-installation Procedures ............................
Chapter 5 lnstalling and Removing Drives
4-20
4-21
4-21
4-23
4-24
4-26
4-27
4-30
Installing a Hard Disk Drive in the Internal Drive Bay........
Removing the Mounting Frames ..........................
Connecting the Hard Disk Drive Cables..........................
Installing the Hard Disk Below the Mounting Bracket......
Installing the Hard Disk On the Mounting Bracket ......
Removing a Hard Disk Drive From the Internal Drive Bay ......
Installing a Drive in the Upper External Drive Bay ...............
Connecting the Drive and Power Cables...............
Removing a Drive from the Upper Drive Bay.......
Reconnecting the Drive and Power Cables to the
Diskette Drive in the Lower Drive Bay ...................
Post-installation Procedures ..........................
5-2
5-3
5-4
5-8
5-11
5-13
5-14
5-16
5-18
5-19
5-21
Chapter 6
Troubleshooting
Identifying Your System
The Computer Will Not Start
The Computer Does Not Respond
Keyboard Problems
Monitor Problems
Diskette Problems
Diskette Drive Problems
Hard Disk Drive Problems
Password Problems
Software Problems
Printer Problems
Option Card Problems
Memory Module Problems
6-l
6-3
6-4
6-5
6-5
6-6
6-7
6-8
6-9
6-10
6-11
6-11
6-12
vii

Mouse Problems
Controller Problems
External Cache Problems
Appendix A Specifications
6-12
6-13
6-13
CPU and Memory
Controllers
Interfaces
Mass storage
Keyboard
SETUP Program
Physical Characteristics
Power Supply
Option Slot Power Limits
Environmental Requirements
Video Resolutions and Colors
Tested Operating Environments
Options Available from EPSON
Hard DiskDrive Types
Drive Option Information
Connector Pin Assignments
DMA Assignments
Hardware Interrupts
System Memory Map
System I/O Address Map
Index
A-l
A-2
A-3
A-4
A-4
A-4
A-5
A-5
A-5
A-6
A-6
A-7
A-7
A-8
A-10
A-11
A-12
A-13
A-14
A-15
Viii

Chapter 1
Setting Up Your System
This chapter briefly describes how to set up your computer. It
includes the following information:
0 Getting started
0 Connecting peripheral devices
0 Turning the computer on and off.
Getting Started
Follow the instructions below for choosing a location for your
new system and unpacking it.
Choosing a Location
When you are ready to set up your system, choose a safe,
convenient location that provides the following:
A flat, hard surface. Surfaces like beds and carpets attract
static electricity, which can erase data on your disks,
damage the computer’s circuitry, and prevent proper
ventilation.
Moderate environmental conditions. Select a cool, dry area
and protect your computer from extremes in temperature,
humidity, dust, and smoke. Avoid direct sunlight or other
sources of heat.
Good air circulation. Leave several inches of space around
the computer so air can move freely.
Setting Up Your System
l-l