Epson Endeavor L User manual

EPSON
®
User’s Guide
EPA POLLUTION PREVENTER
Printed on 50% recycled paper,
10% post consumer content

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.
COPYRIGHT 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 Direct and EPSON Connection are service marks 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.
The Energy Star emblem does not represent EPA endorsement of my product or service.
Copyright © 1994 by Epson America, Inc.
Torrance, California, USA 2/94
ii

Important Safety Instructions
Read all of these instructions and save them for later reference. Follow
all warnings and instructions marked on the computer.
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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.
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. Adjust only those controls that are covered
by the operating instructions.
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 Anschlu des Computers an die Netzversorgung muh
sichergestellt werden, dab die Gebaudeinstallation mit einem
16 A Uberstromschutzschalter 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.
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Debrancher l’ordinateur avant de le nettoyer. N’utiliser qu’un chiffon
humide. Veiller a ne pas renverser de liquides sur l’appareil.
Ne pas placer l’ordinateur sur une surface instable ni pres dune
source de chaleur.
Ne pas bloquer ni couvrir les orifices d’aération de l’appareil. Ne pas
introduire d’objets dans les ouvertures.
Utiliser seulement le type de source d’alimentation électrique indiqué
sur l’étiquette.
Tout l’équipement doit etre branché sur des prises de courant avec
contact de terre. Ne jamais utiliser une prise sur le meme circuit
qu’un appareil a photocopies ou un systeme de controle de
ventilation avec commutation marche-arret automatique.
S’assurer que le cordon d’alimentation de l’ordinateur n’est pas
abimé ni effiloché.
Dans le cas ou on utilise un cordon de rallonge avec l’ordinateur,
s’assurer que l’intensité en amperes requise pour tous les appareils
branches sur ce cordon ne soit pas supérieure a la capacité du cordon.
S’assurer aussi que cette intensté ne dépasse jamais la somme de 15
amperes pour l’ensemble des appareils.
Sauf dans les cas spécifiques expliqués dans ce manuel de l’usager,
ne pas essayer d’entretenir ou de réparer l’ordinateur soi-meme.
Debrancher l’ordinateur et contacter un technicien qualifié dans les
circonstances suivantes:
Si le cordon ou la prise sont abimés; si un liquide a pénétré a
l’intérieur de l’appareil; si on a laissé tomber l’appareil ou si le bonier
est endommagé; si l’ordinateur ne fonctionne pas normalement ou
fonctionne dune mannière très différente de l’ordinaire. N’ajuster que
les commandes décrites dans les directives.
Pour 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

Contents
Introduction
SVGA Utilities ............
Optional Equipment ........
Processor ............
System Memory ........
Video Memory .........
Cache Memory .........
Math Coprocessor .......
Drives ..............
Option Cards ..........
How to Use This Manual ......
Where to Get Help ..........
CompuServe On-line Support
3
3
3
3
4
4
4
4
5
5
6
7
Chapter 1
Setiing Up Your System
Getting Started ..............................
1-1
Choosing a Location ........................
1-1
Unpacking Your Computer ...................
1-2
Connecting Peripheral Devices ....................
1-3
Connecting a Monitor ......................
1-4
Connecting a Printer or Other Device .............
1-5
Connecting the Keyboard ....................
1-6
Connecting the Mouse ......................
1-6
Connecting the Power Cord ...................
1-7
Turning On the Computer .......................
1-8
Turning Off the Computer .......................
1-10
Chapter 2
Running the SETUP Program
Starting the SETUP Program 2-2
Entering SETUP Options 2-3
Selecting Options 2-4
Setting the Date and Time 2-4
V

Setting the Diskette Drive(s)
2-5
Setting the Hard Disk Drive(s)
2-5
Defining Your Own Drive Type
2-6
Setting the Primary Display Type
2-6
Setting the Processor Speed
2-7
Setting the Booting Sequence
2-8
Setting the Diskette Seek Parameter
2-8
Using Virus Protection
2-9
Using the SETUP Screen Submenus
2-9
Setting the Shadow Options
2-10
Setting the Keyboard Options
2-10
Setting the Peripherals Options
2-11
Setting the Password Options
2-12
Entering a Password
2-12
Changing or Deleting a Password
2-13
Setting the Keyboard Lock Option
2-13
Using the System Board Help Function
2-14
Loading Default SETUP Values
2-14
Saving Your Settings and Exiting SETUP
2-15
Post-SETUP Procedures
2-16
Chapter 3
Using Your Computer
Working Comfortably .........................
3-1
Using Energy Wisely ..........................
3-2
Using Disk Drives ............................
3-3
Using Diskettes ..........................
3-3
Inserting and Removing Diskettes ...............
3-4
Using Hard Disk Drives .....................
3-5
Stopping a Command or Program ..................
3-5
Resetting the Computer ........................
3-6
Using a Password ............................
3-7
Using the Hot Key Feature ....................
3-7
Changing or Deleting a Password ...............
3-8
Changing the Processor Speed ....................
3-8
vi

Chapter 4 Installing and Removing Options
Locating the Internal Components .......
Removing the Cover ...............
Replacing the Cover ................
Changing the Jumper and DIP Switch Settings
Setting the Jumpers .............
Setting the DIP Switches ..........
Memory Modules (SIMMs) ............
Inserting SIMMs ...............
Removing SIMMs ..............
Installing an Option Card ............
Removing an Option Card ............
Removing the Option Card Connector Board
Replacing the Option Card Connector Board
Increasing the Video Memory ..........
Installing the Video Memory Chips ....
Using the SVGA Feature Connector .......
Installing a New Processor Chip .........
Replacing the Processor Chip .......
Replacing the Battery ...............
Post-installation Procedures ...........
4-3
4-4
4-6
4-7
4-8
4-10
4-11
4-12
4-14
4-15
4-18
4-19
4-20
4-20
4-20
4-22
4-24
4-25
4-27
4-30
Chapter 5 Installing and Removing Drives
Installing a Hard Disk in the Vertical Bay ...........
Setting the Hard Disk Drive Jumpers ...........
Removing the Mounting Frames .............
Installing a Hard Disk in the Vertical Bay ........
Connecting the Cables ...................
Removing a Hard Disk From the Vertical Bay .........
Installing a Drive in a Horizontal Bay ..............
Attaching Mounting Frames to a Hard Disk .......
Installing the Drive .....................
Connecting the Cables ...................
Removing a Drive From a Horizontal Bay ...........
Connecting the Hard Disk Drive Ribbon Cable to the System
Board ...............................
Post-installation Procedures ...................
5-2
5-2
5-3
5-5
5-9
5-12
5-14
5-15
5-17
5-21
5-26
5-29
5-31
vii

Chapter 6 Troubleshoofing
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
Mouse Problems
External Cache Problems
Battery Problems
Error Messages
Appendix A Specificafions
6-l
6-3
6-4
6-5
6-6
6-6
6-7
6-8
6-9
6-10
6-10
6-11
6-12
6-13
6-13
6-14
6-14
CPUandMemory ............................
Controllers ................................
Interfaces .................................
Keyboard .................................
SETUP Program .............................
Physical Characteristics .........................
Power Supply ..............................
Option Slot Power Limits ........................
Environmental Requirements .....................
Video Memory .............................
Hard Disk Drive Types .........................
DMA Assignments ...........................
Hardware Interrupts ..........................
System Memory Map ..........................
System I/ O Address Map .......................
A-1
A-3
A-3
A-5
A-5
A-5
A-5
A-6
A-6
A-7
A-8
A-11
A-12
A-13
A-14
. . .
Vlll

Parallel and Serial Connector Pin Assignments ...........A-16
Tested Operating Environments....................A-17
Options Available from EPSON....................A-18
Glossary
Index
ix

Introduction
Your new EPSON®computer is a fast, high-performance
system offering flexibility and expandability in a compact
design. Standard features include:
0
0
0
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0
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0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
486SX, DX or DX2 processor upgradable to faster, more
powerful processors, including SX2, DX4, and PentiumTM
0verDriveTM processors
Energy Star compliant in base configurations
4MB of internal memory, expandable to 36MB
8KB of internal processor cache, with support for 32KB,
64KB, 128KB, or 256KB external cache
High-speed, local bus super VGA (SVGA)
512KB or 1MB of on-board video memory; 512KB
configuration is expandable to 1MB
Math coprocessor built into the microprocessor for DX,
DX2, DX4, and Pentium OverDrive systems
System and video BIOS shadow RAM
Two built-in serial ports and one built-in parallel port
Built-in PS/2TM compatible keyboard and mouse ports
Built-in VGA port and on-board SVGA feature connector
Four 16-bit (or 8-bit) ISA option slots
Support for up to three internal mass storage devices
Password security.
Introduction 1

Your system has a local bus interface for the video. This bus can
transfer data at the full speed of your processor rather than at
the standard 8.33 MHz ISA bus speed, so your system can
transmit video data far more quickly. This local bus, together
with the standard on-board video memory, provides fast video
response in a range of resolutions and colors. (See Appendix A
for a list of supported resolutions.)
In its base configuration, this computer complies with the
United States Environmental Protection Agency’s Energy Star
Program, which promotes the manufacture of energy-efficient
printers, computers, and monitors.
If you install a high-resolution graphics adapter card or
full-motion, multimedia card, you can connect it to the
computer’s SVGA feature connector. This allows you to use the
adapter’s special graphics features while accessing the standard
SVGA signals provided by your main system board.
Your system may have been configured for you so that
everything you need to get started is already in place. The
settings for your hardware configuration have been set to
ensure optimal system performance. The hard disk drive
already contains the MS-DOS@ operating system and Microsoft@
Windows. TM In addition, the drivers needed to take advantage of
your system’s local bus video have been installed for you. Just
connect your keyboard, mouse, and monitor and you’re ready
to go.
2 Introduction

SVGA Utilities
Your computer comes with special SVGA drivers and utilities
for use with the integrated local bus SVGA interface. Use these
utilities to take advantage of extended VGA features such as
high resolutions and 132-column text mode when you run
popular application programs. Instructions for installing and
using these drivers are in a README file called VGADRV.TXT
on the Utilities 1 diskette. If your system came configured with
a hard disk drive, you may also find this file by selecting the
VGA Utilities group icon in Microsoft Windows. See page 2-16
for more information.
Optional Equipment
You can easily upgrade your computer by installing additional
memory and a wide variety of options, described below.
Processor
You can upgrade the processor in your computer to a more
powerful processor, including DX and DX2 processors, and
SX2, DX4, and Pentium OverDrive processors, when available.
DX4 processors need an adapter board with an appropriate
voltage regulator for this computer.
System Memory
By adding lMB, 4MB, or 16MB SIMMs (single inline memory
modules) to the main system board, you can expand the
computer’s memory up to 36MB.
Introduction 3

Video Memory
Your system comes with either 512KB 1MB video memory
on the system board. If your system contains 512KB of video
memory, you can add additional memory chips to your system
board to increase the video memory to 1MB and support
higher video resolutions, multimedia graphics adapter cards,
or applications that require higher memory.
Cache Memory
Your system may have external cache memory already
installed for you. If not, you can increase the cache memory on
your main system board to 32KB, 64KB, 128KB, or 256KB by
having external cache SRAM chips installed. Additional cache
allows your system to access frequently used data faster.
Upgrade kits for 128KB and 256KB of external cache are
available from EPSON.
Math Coprocessor
If your system contains a DX, DX2, DX4, or Pentium OverDrive
processor, the chip contains a math coprocessor that allows the
computer to perform mathematical functions faster. If you have
an SX-based system, you can install an 80487SXprocessor,
which includes the math coprocessor.
Drives
Your system supports up to three half-height mass storage
devices, including hard disk drives, diskette drives, a tape
drive, a CD-ROM drive, or an optical drive.
4 Introduction

Option Cards
With four available 16-bit ISA slots, your computer can support
a variety of option cards such as fax modem, network, and
multimedia cards. Your system may come with these options
installed for you.
How to Use This Manual
You don’t have to read everything in this book to use your
computer; see the following chapter summaries to find the
sections you need.
Chapter 1 provides steps for setting up your system and
connecting peripheral devices.
Chapter 2 describes how to run SETUP to initially define your
computer’s configuration. If you change the configuration later,
you need to run it again.
Chapter 3 covers general operating procedures such as
entering a password and changing the processor speed.
Chapter 4 describes how to install optional equipment such as
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.
At the end of this manual, you’ll find a Glossary and an Index.
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 Service Centers.
EPSON also provides support services through the EPSON
Connection. SM In the United States, dial [phone]. (You can
also contact EPSON at [phone] and ask for the EPSON
Connection.) In Canada, dial (800) GO-EPSON.
Call the EPSON Connection for the following:
0Technical assistance with the installation, configuration,
and operation of EPSON products
0Assistance in locating your nearest Authorized EPSON
Reseller or Service Center
0Sales of accessories, manuals, or parts for EPSON products
0 Customer relations
0Epson technical information library fax service
0Product literature on current and new products.
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.
If you purchased your computer outside the United States or
Canada, contact your EPSON dealer or marketing location
nearest you for customer support and service. International
marketing locations are listed at the end of this manual.
If you need help with any software application program you
are using, see the documentation that came with that program
for technical support information.
6 Introduction

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 already a CompuServe member, simply type GO
EPSON at the menu prompt to reach the Epson America Forum.
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:
0An introductory $15 credit on CompuServe
0Your own user ID and password
0A 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 [phone] (U.S. phone number) or call your
local CompuServe access number.
Introduction 7

Chapter- 1
Setting Up Your System
This chapter describes how to set up your computer. It includes
this information:
0 Getting started
0 Connecting peripheral devices
0Turning 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 selecting a place 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.
Good air circulation. Leave several inches of space around
the computer so air can move freely.
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
heat sources.
Setting Up Your System 1-1

0No electromagnetic interference. Do not place your system
too close to any electrical device, such as a telephone or
television, which generates an electromagnetic field.
0Appropriate power source. Connect all your equipment
with the appropriate power cords for the power source in
your area.
Unpacking Your Computer
When you unpack your system components, make sure you
have these items in addition to this book:
0 Computer
0 Keyboard
0 Power cord
0 Utility diskettes (2).
If your system did not come with a hard disk drive installed,
you’ll also have a hard disk drive cable and four screws to
secure the hard disk drive to the bracket in the internal bay.
Your system may also include a PS/2 compatible mouse and
may have the operating system and software already installed
on the hard disk drive.
If you purchased any optional equipment that wasn’t installed
at the factory-such as option cards, memory modules, a hard
disk or diskette drive-install these options before you connect
your computer. See Chapters 4 and 5 for instructions.
1-2 Setting Up Your System

Connecting Peripheral Devices
Use the illustration below to locate the ports on the back of
your system as you connect the monitor, keyboard, printer, and
other devices.
Setting Up Your System 1-3

Connecting a Monitor
If you have a VGA or SVGA monitor (or a multifrequency
monitor with an analog connector), you can connect it to the
computer’s built-in VGA port as described below. If you have
any other type of monitor (or if you want to install a display
adapter card to control your monitor), see Chapter 4.
Follow these steps to connect your monitor to the computer’s
built-in VGA port:
1. Place the monitor and computer so the backs are facing you.
2. There should be two cables provided with your monitor: the
monitor cable (to connect it to the computer) and the power
cable (to connect it to a power source). On most monitors,
the monitor cable is permanently attached to the monitor. If
your monitor does not have an attached cable, connect the
cable to it now. (See your monitor manual for instructions.)
3. Align the connector on the monitor cable with the VlDEO port
on the computer; then insert the connector. Be careful not to
bend the pins when you insert it.
4. If the connector has retaining screws, tighten them.
5. Plug the monitor power cord into the monitor’s power inlet.
6. Plug the other end of the power cord into an appropriate
grounded electrical outlet or, if the cord has the correct type
of plug, into the power outlet on the back of the computer.
Before you plug the monitor’s power cord into the back of
your computer, make sure the monitor's power
requirements do not exceed 1 Amp.
1-4 Setting Up Your System