Epson Endeavor VL User manual

User’s Guide
Printed on 50% recycled paper with
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
o fmerchantability 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
Endeavor is a trademark of Epson America, Inc. EPSON Connection and EPSON Direct
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 companies.
Copyright © 1994 by Epson America, Inc.
Torrance, California, USA 3/94
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 Users 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 a16 Amp circuit breaker.
Beim Anschluß des Computers an die Netzversorgung muß
sichergestellt werden, daß die Gebäudeinstallation mit einem
16 AUberstromschutzschalter abgesichert ist.
. . .
111

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.
l Debrancher l’ordinateur avant de le nettoyer. N’utiliser qu’un chiffon
humide. Veiller à ne pas renverser de liquides sur l’appareil.
lNe pas placer l’ordinateur sur une surface instable ni près d'une
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’étiquette.
l Tout l’équipement doit être branché sur des prises de courant avec
contact de terre. Ne jamais utiliser une prise sur le même circuit
qu’un appareil à photocopies ou un système de contrôle de
ventilation avec commutation marche-arrêt automatique.
lS’assurer que le cordon d’alimentation de l’ordinateur n’est pas
abîmé effiloché.
lDans le cas où 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 ala capacité du cordon.
S’assurer aussi que cette intensté ne dépasse jamais la somme de 15
amperes pour l’ensemble des appareils.
lSauf dans les cas spécifiques expliqués dans ce manuel de l’usager,
ne pas essayer d’entretenir ou de réparer l’ordinateur soi-même.
l Debrancher l’ordinateur et contacter un technicien qualifié dans les
circonstances suivantes:
Si le cordon ou la prise sont abîmés; si un liquide apénétré a
l’intérieur de l’appareil; si on alaissé tomber l’appareil ou si le bonîtier
est end ommagé; si l’ordinateur ne fonctionne pas normalement ou
fonctionne d'une manière très différente de l’ordinaire. N’ajuster que
les commandes décrites dans les directives.
l Pour utiliser l’ordinateur en Allemagne, il est nécessaire que le
bâtiment soit muni d’un disjoncteur de 16 amperes pour protéger
l’ordinateur contre les courts-circuits et le survoltage.
iv

Contents
Introduction
Video Card...............................
Optional Equipment .........................
System Memory.........................
Cache Memory..........................
Microprocessor..........................
Drives...............................
How to Use This Manual.......................
Where to Get Help ..........................
CompuServe On-line Support .................
2
2
3
3
3
4
4
5
6
Chapter 1
Setting Up Your System
1 Choosing a Location ..............l-2
2 Connecting a Monitor ..............l-4
3 Connecting a Printer or Other Device ..............l-5
Using the Parallel Port ............. l-5
Using the Serial Ports ............. l-5
4 Connecting the Keyboard ..............l-6
5 Connecting the Mouse ..............l-6
6 Connecting the Power Cord ..............l-7
7 Turning On the Computer ..............l-8
Turning Off the Computer ............. l-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
Setting the Diskette Drive(s)....................
2-5
Setting the Hard Disk Drive(s)...................
2-5
Hard Disk Drive Types....................
2-6
Defining Your Own Drive Type...............
2-8
V

Setting the Primary Display Type
Setting the Processor Speed
Setting the Booting Sequence
Setting the Diskette Seek Parameter
Using the SETUP Screen Submenus
Setting the Shadow Options
Setting the Peripherals Options
Setting the Keyboard Options
Setting the Password Options
Entering a Password
Changing or Deleting a Password
Setting the Keyboard Lock Option
Using the System Board Help Function
Loading Default SETUP Values
Saving Your Settings and Exiting SETUP
Post-SETUP Procedures
Chapter 3
Using Your Computer
2-8
2-10
2-10
2-l1
2- l 1
2- l1
2-12
2-13
2-14
2-14
2-15
2-15
2-16
2-16
2-17
2-18
Working Comfortably
Sitting at Your Computer
Varying Your Posture and Movements
Lighting the Room
Positioning and Viewing the Monitor
Inserting and Removing Diskettes
Stopping a Command or Program
Resetting the Computer
Using a Password
Using the Hot Key Feature
Changing or Deleting a Password
Changing the Processor Speed
Local Bus IDE Drivers
3-l
3-2
3-3
3-3
3-4
3-5
3-6
3-6
3-7
3-8
3-8
3-9
3-11
vi

Chapter 4 Installing and Removing Options
How to Use This Chapter .........................
Locating the Internal Components ...............
Removing 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
Upgrading the Microprocessor ..................
Replacing the Microprocessor................
Replacing the Cover.........................
Post-installation Procedures....................
4-l
4-3
4-4
4-6
4-8
4-9
4-10
4-l1
4-13
4-14
4-17
4-18
4-19
4-19
4-20
4-23
4-24
Chapter 5 Installing and Removing Drives
How to Use This Chapter .....................
5-3
Setting the Hard Disk Drive Jumpers...............
5-4
Where to Go Next.......................
5-4
Installing a Hard Disk in the Vertical Bay ............
5-5
Removing the Mounting Frames ..............
5-5
Installing the Hard Disk ...................
5-7
Connecting the Cables ....................
5-11
Removing a Hard Disk From the Vertical Bay..........
5-14
Installing a Drive in a Horizontal Bay ..............
5-16
Attaching Mounting Frames to a Hard Disk........5-17
Installing the Drive ......................
5-18
Connecting the Cables ....................
5-22
Removing a Drive From a Horizontal Bay............5-27
Connecting the Hard Disk Drive Ribbon Cable to the System
Board................................
5-31
Post-installation Procedures....................
5-33
vii
.............
.............

Chapter 6 Troubleshooting
Identifying Your System ...........................
Error Message .................................
The Computer Won’t Start .........................
The Computer Does Not Respond .....................
Restoring the Power Supply ...................
Password Problems ..............................
Accessing Your System ........................
Keyboard Problems ..............................
MonitorProblems...............................
Diskette Problems ...............................
Diskette Drive Problems ..........................
Hard Disk Problems ..............................
Installing the Drive ...........................
Preparing the Drive ..........................
Accessing Data on the Drive ....................
Software Problems ..............................
Printer Problems ................................
Option Card Problems ............................
Mouse Problems ................................
Memory Module Problems .........................
External Cache Problems ..........................
Appendix A Specifications
6-1
6-2
6-6
6-7
6-8
6-9
6-9
6-10
6-11
6-12
6-14
6-14
6-15
6-16
6-17
6-17
6-18
6-20
6-21
6-21
6-22
CPU and Memory...........................A-l
Controllers............................... A-2
Interfaces................................ A-2
Mass Storage.............................. A-3
Input Devices .............................A-3
Physical Characteristics........................A-3
Power Supply.............................A-4
Environmental Requirements.................... A-4
Power Source Requirements..................... A-5
Tested Operating Environments .................. A-6
Options Available from EPSON................... A-6
Serial and Parallel Port Connector Pin Assignments....... A-7
DMA Assignments..........................A-8
viii

Hardware Interrupts ........................A-9
System Memory Map........................A-10
System I/ O Address Map ..................... A-11
Glossary
Index
ix

Introduction
Your new EPSON®EndeavorTMVL computer is a fast,
high-performance system designed for flexibility and future
expandability. Two VESA local bus (VL-Bus) option slots are
standard, in addition to the following features:
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
486SX, DX, or DX2 processor upgradable to faster, more
powerful powerful processors, including SX2, DX4, and Pentium
TM
OverDrive processors
4MB of internal memory, expandable to 40MB
System and video BIOS shadow RAM
8KB of internal processor cache, with support for 64KB,
128KB, or 256KB external cache
Math coprocessor built into the microprocessor for the DX
and DX2 systems
High-speed, 32-bit, local bus IDE hard disk drive interface
Two built-in serial ports and one built-in parallel port
Built-in PS/2TM compatible keyboard and mouse ports
Two 16-bit (or 8-bit) ISA option slots and two 32-bit VL-Bus
slots (VL-Bus slots can also be used for ISA cards)
Support for up to three internal mass storage devices
Password security
VL-bus video card (if you purchased your computer in the
United States).
Introduction 1

The VL-Bus specification means that your system supports
32-bit data transfer at speeds of up to 33 MHz, and uses the full
address range of the 486 processor chip. Bus mastering and
burst-mode transfers are additional features that increase the
power and performance of your computer. In fact, the VL-Bus
standard can process 20 times more data per second than an
ISA bus.
The VESA option slots allow you to install high-performance:
VESA-compliant devices such as a graphics accelerator card,
SCSI adapter, or network controller.
The local bus IDE interface on your system provides faster
access to your hard disk drive. Your computer comes with
special drivers that allow you to take advantage of this
interface. The drivers may be already installed on your hard
disk. Refer to the instructions at the end of Chapter 3 for more
information about the local bus IDE drivers.
Video Card
Your computer (if purchased in the United States) comes with a
high-resolution video card installed in one of the VESA option
slots. Special drivers and utilities included with your card
allow you to take advantage of extended VGA features such as
high resolutions and 132-column text mode when you run
popular application programs. These drivers may be already
installed on your hard disk. Refer to the manual that came with
your video card for more information about the drivers.
Optional 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.)
2 Introduction

System Memory
By adding 4MB or 16MB SIMMs (single in line memory
modules) to the main system board, you can expand the
computer’s memory up to 40MB.
Cache Memory
You can add external cache memory to your system by having
an Authorized EPSON Servicer install SRAM chips. You may
have had external cache memory installed at the factory.
Increasing the cache to 64KB, 128KB, or 256KB allows your
system to access frequently used data much faster, improving
overall system performance.
Microprocessor
You can enhance your system by replacing your processor chip
with a faster processor. Following is a list of the processors you
can use to upgrade your system :
0 486DX/ 33
0 486DX2/ 50
0 486DX/ 66
0 SX2, DX4, and Pentium OverDrive processors, when
available.
All DX- and Pentium-based processors include a built-in math
coprocessor.
Introduction 3

Drives
Your system supports up to three internal mass storage
devices, including hard disk drives, diskette drives, a tape
drive, a CD-ROM drive, or an optical drive.
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 the SETUP program to define
your computer’s configuration. Do this the first time you use
your computer and again if you change your configuration.
Chapter 3 covers general operating procedures, such as
resetting the computer, entering a password, and changing the
processor speed.
Chapter 4 describes how to install optional equipment such as
interface cards, microprocessor upgrades, 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 aGlossary, an Index, and
a list of international marketing locations.
4 Introduction

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.SMIn 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:
0 Technical assistance with the installation, configuration,
and operation of EPSON products
0 Assistance in locating your nearest Authorized EPSON
Reseller or Service Center
0 Sales of accessories, manuals, or parts for EPSON products
0 Customer relations
0 EPSON technical information library fax service
0 Product 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.
Introduction 5

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:
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 [phone] (U.S. phone number) or call your
local CompuServe access number.
6 Introduction

Chapter- 1
Setting Up Your System
To set up your computer, follow the steps in this chapter.
If you purchased additional options, see Chapters 4 and 5 for
instructions on how to install them before you set up your
system.
Setting Up Your System 1-1

1
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.
No electromagnetic interference. Do not place your system
too close to any electrical device, such as a telephone or
television, which generates an electromagnetic field.
Appropriate power source. Connect all your equipment
with the appropriate power cords for the power source in
your area. If you are operating the computer in a country
other than the one in which you purchased it, see “Power
Source Requirements” in Appendix A for the cord you
should use.
1-2 Setting Up Your System

When you are ready to connect the various parts of your
system, use the following illustration to locate the ports on the
back of the computer.
Setting Up Your System 1-3

2
Connecting a Monitor
If your video card has not been installed already, you need to
install it before you can connect a monitor. See Chapter 4 for
instructions. Then follow these steps to connect your monitor
to the video port on the card:
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 video port
on the card installed in your computer; then insert the
connector. Be careful not to bend the pins when inserting 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, power strip, or surge protector,
1-4 Setting Up Your System

3
Connecting a Printer or Other Device
Your computer has one parallel port and two serial ports. To
connect a printer or other peripheral device, follow the
instructions below.
Using the Parallel Port
Follow these steps to connect a parallel printer to your
computer:
1. Place the printer next to the computer so that the backs are
facing you.
2. Align the connector end of the printer cable with the
PARALLEL port and plug it in. If the connector has retaining
screws, tighten them.
3. Connect the other end of the cable to the printer. To secure
the cable, squeeze the clips at each side of the printer port
and push them into place.
4. Plug the printer’s power cord into an appropriate grounded
(earthed) electrical outlet, power strip, or surge protector.
Using the Serial Ports
If you have a printer, a modem, or other peripheral device with
a serial interface, you can connect it to one of the serial
(RS-232C) ports on the back of the computer. These ports use a
DB-9P connector, so be sure you have a compatible cable.
To connect a serial device, insert the connector into one of the
ports, marked SERIAL 1 and SERIAL 2. If you are connecting only
one serial device, use the SERIAL 1 port.
Setting Up Your System 1-5