Epson Powerspan User manual

EPSON®POWERSPAN®
User’s Guide
a9
This manual is printed on recycled paper and is 100% recyclable.

FCC COMPLIANCE STATEMENT m02184
FOR AMERICAN USERS
This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a class B digital
device, pursuant to Part 15 of the FCC Rules. These limits are designed to provide
reasonable protection against harmful interference in a residential installation. This
equipment generates, uses, and can radiate radio frequency energy and, if not installed
and used in accordance with the instructions, may cause harmful interference to radio and
television reception. However, there is no guarantee that interference will not occur in a
particular installation. If this equipment does cause interference to radio and television
reception, which can be determined by turning the equipment off and on, the user is
encouraged to try to correct the interference by one or more of the following measures:
0 Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna
0 Increase the separation between the equipment and receiver
0 Connect the equipment into an outlet on a circuit different from that to which the
receiver is connected
0 Consult an experienced radio/TV technician for help.
WARNING
The connection of a non-shielded equipment interface cable to this equipment will
invalidate the FCC Certification of this device and may cause interference levels that
exceed the limits established by the FCC for this equipment. It is the responsibility of the
user to obtain and use a shielded equipment interface cable with this device. If this
equipment has more than one interface connector, do not leave cables connected to unused
interfaces.
Changes or modifications not expressly approved by the manufacturer could void the
user’s authority to operate the equipment.
FOR CANADIAN USERS
This digital apparatus does not exceed the Class B limits for radio noise emissions from
digital apparatus as set out in the radio interference regulations of the Canadian
Department of Communications.
Le pr6sent appareil numkrique n’emet pas de bruits radioklectriques depassant les limites
applicables aux appareils numkriques de Classe B prescrites dans le r&glement sur le
brouillage radioelectrique edict6 par le Minist&e des Communications du Canada.

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
of merchantability 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 and PowerSpan are registered trademarks of Seiko Epson Corporation.
Epson Connection is a service mark of Epson America, Inc.
The power-on diagnostic error messages and beep codes in Appendix A are copyright
1985-1992, Pheonix Technologies, Ltd.
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 0 1993 by Epson America, Inc.
Torrance, California, USA 400234300
ii

Important Safety Instructions
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
9.
10.
Read all of these instructions and save them for later reference.
Follow all warnings and instructions marked on the computer.
Unplug the computer from the wall outlet before cleaning. Use a
damp cloth for cleaning; do not use liquid or aerosol cleaners.
Do not spill liquid of any kind on the computer.
Do not place the computer on an unstable cart, stand, or table.
Slots and openings in the cabinet and the back or bottom are
provided for ventilation; do not block or cover these openings.
Do not place the computer near or over a radiator or heat
register.
Operate the computer using the type of power source indicated
on its label.
If you plan to operate the computer in Germany, observe the
following safety precaution:
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 Gebaudeinstallation mit einem
16 A ijberstromschutzschalter abgesichert ist.
Connect all equipment to properly grounded (earthed) power
outlets. If you are unable to insert the plug into an outlet, contact
your electrician to replace your outlet. Avoid using outlets on
the same circuit as photocopiers or air control systems that
regularly switch on and off.
Do not allow the computer’s power cord to become damaged or
frayed.
iii

11. If you use an extension cord with the computer, make sure the
total of the ampere ratings of the devices plugged into the
extension cord does not exceed the ampere rating for the
extension cord. Also, make sure the total of all products plugged
into the wall outlet does not exceed 15 amperes.
12. Do not insert objects of any kind into this product through the
cabinet slots.
13. Except as specifically explained in this User’s Guide, do not
attempt to service the computer yourself. Refer all servicing to
qualified service personnel.
14. Unplug the computer from the wall outlet and refer servicing to
qualified service personnel under the following conditions:
A. When the power cord or plug is damaged.
B. If liquid has entered the computer.
C. If the computer does not operate normally when the operating
instructions are followed. Adjust only those controls that are
covered by the operating instructions. Improper adjustment
of other controls may result in damage and often requires
extensive work by a qualified technician to restore the
computer to normal operation.
D. If the computer has been dropped or the cabinet has been
damaged.
E. If the computer exhibits a distinct change in performance.
iv

Instructions Importantes de S&wit6
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
9.
Lire completement les instructions qui suivent et les conserver
pour references futures.
Bien suivre tous les avertissements et les instructions indiques sur
l’ordinateur.
Debrancher l’ordinateur de toute sortie murale avant le nettoyage.
Utiliser rm chiffon humide; ne jamais utiliser un nettoyeur
liquide ou une bonbonne aerosol.
Ne jamais renverser un liquide d’aucune sorte sur l’ordinateur.
Ne pas placer l’ordinateur sur un chariot, un support, ou une table
instable.
Les events darts les meubles, a l’arriere et en dessous sont concus
pour l’akration; on ne doit jamais les bloquer. Ne pas placer
l’ordinateur pres d’une source de chaleur directe.
Le fonctionnement de l’ordinateur doit s’effectuer conformement
au type de source d’alimentation indiquee sur l’etiquette.
Lorsqu’on desire utiliser l’ordinateur en Allemagne, on doit
observer les normes securitaires qui suivent:
Afin d’assurer tme protection adequate a l’ordinateur contre
les court-circuits et le survoltage, l’installation de l/edifice
doit comprendre un disjoncteur de 16 amp.
On doit brancher tout l’equipement dans une sortie reliee a la
masse. Lorsqu’il est impossible d’inserer la fiche dans la prise, on
doit retenir les services d’un electricien ou remplacer la prise. Ne
jamais utiliser une prise sur le meme circuit qu’un appareil a
photocopie ou un systeme de controle d’aeration avec
commutation marche-a&t.
10. S’assurer que le cordon d’alimentation de l’ordinateur n’est pas
effrite.
V

11. Dans le cas oti on utilise un cordon de rallonge avec l’ordinateur,
on doit s’assurer que la valeur totale d’amperes branches dans le
cordon n’excede en aucun temps les amperes du cordon de
rallonge. La quantite totale des appareils branches dans la prise
murale ne doit jamais exceder 15 amperes.
12. Ne jamais inserer un objet de quelque sorte que ce soit dans les
cavites de cet appareil.
13. Sauf tel que sp&ifie dans la notice d’utilisation, on ne doit jamais
tenter d’effectuer une reparation de l’ordinateur. On doit referer
le service de cet appareil a un technicien qualifie.
14. Debrancher l’ordinateur de la prise murale et confier le service au
personnel de service qualifib selon les conditions qui suivent:
A. Lorsque le cordon d’alimentation ou la prise sont
endommages.
B. Lorsqu’un liquide s’est infiltre dans l’ordinateur.
C. Lorsque l’ordinateur refuse de fonctionner normalement
mi?me en suivant les instructions. N’ajuster que les
commandes qui sont enumerees dans les instructions de
fonctionnement. Tout ajustement inadequat de tout autre
controle peut provoquer un dommage et souvent necessiter
des reparations elaborees par un technicien qualifie afin de
remettre l’appareil en service.
D. Lorsqu’on a echappe l’ordinateur ou que l’on a endommage le
boitier.
E. Lorsque l’ordinateur demontre un changement note au niveau
de sa performance.
vi

Contents
Software
...............................
2
How to Use This Manual
......................
3
Where to Get Help
.........................
4
Chapter I
Setting Up Your System
Preparing to Set Up Your System
.................
1-1
Installation Overview ........................
1-2
Setting the Voltage Selector Switch
................
1-4
Installing Optional Equipment
..................
1-5
Connecting Peripheral Devices
..................
1-6
Turning On the System
.......................
1-8
Configuring Your System
.....................
1-10
Equipment Log
...........................
1-11
Chapter 2
Running the SETUP Program
Starting the Program
........................
2-2
Selecting Options
.......................
2-3
Selecting Settings
..........................
2-4
Hard Disk Drive Types
....................
2-12
Exiting SETUP
.........................
2-14
Chapter 3
Running the EISA Configuration Utility
How to Use This Chapter
......................
3-3
The Configuration Process
.....................
3-4
Using Configuration Files
...................
3-4
Using the Keyboard
......................
3-5
Using a Mouse
.........................
3-5
Using On-line Help
......................
3-6
vii

Configuring Your System
......................
3-7
Starting the Program
......................
3-7
Setting the Date and Time
................... 3-8
Performing the Configuration Steps
............. 3-9
Adding or Removing a Board
.................
3-11
Defining the Configuration Settings
............. 3-11
Using Advanced Configuration Options
........... 3-23
Using Alternate Configuration Files
................ 3-25
Creating an Alternate SCI File
................. 3-25
Loading an Alternate SCI File
................. 3-26
Using Special Modes
......................... 3-27
Using the SD Command
.................... 3-27
Using the CF Command
.................... 3-29
Copying the Configuration Files to a Hard Disk
......
3-31
Chapter 4 Using Your Computer
Locking the Computer’s Cover
...................
4-1
Locking the Front Panel Door
.................... 4-2
Disabling the Keyboard and Mouse
................
4-4
Using the Password Features
.................... 4-5
Setting Passwords
........................
4-6
Entering Passwords
....................... 4-8
Changing or Deleting Passwords
...............
4-9
Locking the Keyboard
........................ 4-12
Changing the Processor Speed
................... 4-13
Entering Keyboard Commands
................
4-14
Using the EISA System Utilities
................ 4-15
Controlling the Speaker
....................... 4-16
Controlling the Cache
........................ 4-17
Using the Security Features
..................... 4-19
Using Special Configurations
....................
4-20
Operating Your Computer from a Remote Location
.......
4-21

Chapter 5
Accessing Internal Components
Special Precautions
.........................
5-1
Removing the System Covers
...................
5-2
Removing the External Side Cover .............
5-3
Removing the Internal Main System Board Cover
.....
5-4
Replacing the System Covers
...................
5-5
Replacing the Internal Main System Board Cover
.....
5-5
Replacing the External Side Cover
..............
5-7
Removing the Front Panel
.....................
5-8
Replacing the Front Panel
.....................
5-9
Chapter 6
Installing and Removing Options
Main System Board Map
......................
6-2
Removing the CPU Card
......................
6-3
Installing the CPU Card
......................
6-4
Installing an Option Card
.....................
6-6
Removing an Option Card
.....................
6-8
Using the VGA Feature Connector
................
6-9
Memory Modules ..........................
6-10
Installing Memory Modules ....................
6-11
Removing Memory Modules
................... 6-13
Setting Main System Board Jumpers
...............
6-14
Chapter 7
Installing and Removing Disk Drives
Using the Correct Drive Bay
....................
7-2
Installing a Drive in an External Bay
...............
7-3
Removing a Drive from an External Bay
.............
7-8
Installing and Removing an IDE Hard Disk Drive
.......
7-9
Removing the IDE Drive Bay Assembly
..........
7-10
Installing an IDE Drive
....................
7-11
Removing an IDE Drive
...................
7-12
Replacing the IDE Drive Bay Assembly
...........
7-13
Connecting the IDE Ribbon and Power Cables
...... 7-14
Installing a SCSI Drive
.......................
7-18
Installing the SCSI Ribbon and Power Cables
.......
7-22
Removing a SCSI Drive
.......................
7-25
ix

Appendix A Troubleshooting
Identifying Your System
.......................
A-1
Error Messages
............................ A-2
Power-on Diagnostic and Boot Errors
............
A-3
Error Tone Codes
........................
A-12
Power or Lock-up Problems
.....................
A-14
Password Problems
.......................... A-16
Keyboard Problems
..........................
A-18
Monitor Problems
...........................
A-18
Diskette Problems
.......................... A-19
Diskette Drive Problems
.......................
A-20
Hard Disk Problems
.........................
A-21
Software Problems
..........................
A-22
Printer Problems
...........................
A-23
Option Card Problems
........................
A-23
Memory Module Problems
.....................
A-24
Mouse Problems
...........................
A-25
SCSI Drive Problems
.........................
A-25
Appendix B Specifications
Main System Board
..........................
B-1
CPU Card. ...............................
B-1
Interfaces
................................
B-2
Keyboard
...............................
B-2
Controllers
...............................
B-3
Mass Storage Bays
...........................
B-3
Physical Characteristics
........................
B-3
Environmental Requirements
....................
B-4
Power Supply
.............................
B-4
Power Source Requirements
.....................
B-6
System Memory Map
.........................
B-7
Input/output Addresses .......................
B-9
System Interrupts
...........................
B-11
x

Glossary
Index
Epson America International
Epson International Marketing Locations
Distributors
xi

The Epson
®
PowerSpan
®
computer is a powerful, versatile
system ideally suited for use as a network file server. It
incorporates the latest EISA (Extended Industry Standard
Architecture) technology in a convenient tower design. Its
exceptional features and flexibility enable you to use the most
advanced peripheral devices and software while maintaining
full compatibility with ISA technology. Your system includes:
cl
cl
ci
cl
tl
cl
ci
ci
8MB of RAM on single inline memory modules (SIMMs),
expandable to 128MB using 1MB, 2MB, 4MB, 8MB, 16MB,
or 32MB single- or double-sided SIMMs
Upgradable Intel
®
486DX2/66 CPU on a removable card
including 8KB internal and 128KB secondary cache
memory and an integrated math coprocessor
One built-in parallel and two built-in serial interfaces, plus
a built-in VGA controller providing standard VGA
resolutions
IBM
®
PS/2
®
compatible mouse port and keyboard port
Eight EISA bus master expansion slots (compatible with
32-bit EISA cards and 8- or 16-bit ISA cards)
IDE hard disk drive interface for two hard disk drives
Diskette drive controller for two diskette drives
Mass storage space for up to nine half-height drives: two
internal bays for IDE hard disk drives or SCSI drives, four
internal bays for SCSI drives, and three externally-
accessible bays for diskette, tape, or CD-ROM drives.
Introduction 1

The built-in interfaces let you connect basic peripheral devices
directly to the computer, leaving the expansion slots for
optional devices such as a SCSI adapter and a networking card.
You can also install a variety of other options, such as diskette
drives, hard disk drives, a tape drive, or a SCSI subsystem.
You can upgrade your system microprocessor by replacing the
removable CPU card with an Intel Pentium
®
CPU card or by
installing an Intel P24T OverDrive™ processor on the existing
CPU card.
Your computer provides a 32-bit wide EISA bus that supports
64-bit processors by employing advanced bit-interleaving
technology. In addition, the EISA burst mode capability enables
data transfers of up to 66MB of data per second through the
EISA bus.
In addition, your computer offers multiple-level security
features to protect both the hardware and software from
unauthorized user access.
Software
Your system comes with a Reference diskette containing the
EISA Configuration utility and various EISA System Utilities.
These programs allow you to configure your computer and
EISA option cards, as well as customize many system features.
In addition, a SETUP program is provided in your system BIOS
so you can easily configure your computer if you have not
installed any EISA option cards or are operating your system
without a diskette drive.
2 Introduction

How to Use This Manual
This manual explains how to set up, configure, and operate
your computer, as well as how to install optional equipment.
It does not cover your operating system; see your operating
system manual for instructions on installing and using it.
Although you should be sure to follow the steps in Chapters 1,
2, and 3 to set up and configure your system, you do not need
to read everything in this book. See the following chapter
summaries to find the sections you need.
Chapter 1 provides instructions for setting up your system.
Chapter 2 describes how to run the SETUP program to
configure your system when you do not have a diskette drive
or did not install any EISA option cards.
Chapter 3 describes how to run the EISA Configuration utility
to configure your computer when you have installed EISA
option cards.
Chapter 4 provides instructions for certain operating
procedures, such as locking the computer’s cover, using the
password features, and changing the operating speed.
Chapter 5 describes how to remove and replace the system
covers and the front panel to access the internal components.
Chapter 6 describes how to install and remove options.
Chapter 7 describes how to install and remove disk drives.
Appendix A contains troubleshooting tips.
Appendix B gives the technical specifications for the computer.
At the end of the manual, you’ll find a Glossary and an Index.
Introduction 3

Where to Get Help
If you purchased your computer in the United States, Epson
America provides local customer support and service through
a nationwide network of authorized Epson dealers and Service
Centers. Epson also provides support services through the
Epson Connection
SM
at: [phone].
Call the Epson Connection for the following:
Technical assistance with the installation, configuration,
and operation of Epson products
Assistance in locating your nearest Authorized Epson
Reseller or Service Center
Sales of ribbons, supplies, parts, documentation, and
accessories for your Epson product
Customer Relations
Epson technical information library fax service-also
available directly by calling the toll number [phone]
Product literature with technical specifications on our
current and new products
User group locations.
If you purchased your computer outside the United States,
please contact your dealer or the marketing location nearest
you for customer support and service. International marketing
locations are listed at the back of the manual.
If you need help with any software application programs you
are using, see the documentation that came with the programs
for technical support information.
4 Introduction

Chapter 1
Setting Up Your System
This chapter describes how to set up and start using your
computer system for the first time. before you set up your
system, be sure to read the “Important Safety Instructions” at
the beginning of this manual.
Preparing to Set Up Your System
It is important to choose a safe, convenient location for your
system that provides the following:
A flat, hard surface. Place the computer on an anti-static
mat if the surface is carpeted.
Good air circulation. Leave several inches of space around
the computer so air can move freely for proper cooling.
Moderate environmental conditions. Select a cool, dry, area
and protect your computer from humidity, dust, and
smoke. Avoid direct sunlight and other heat sources.
No electromagnetic interference. Do not place your system
too close to any device that generates an electromagnetic
field or creates electrical noise, such as a telephone, air
conditioner, large fan, radio, TV, or large electric motor.
Access to appropriate power sources. Connect all your
equipment to an appropriate source. (See “Power Source
Requirements” in Appendix B for more information. Also
see “Setting the Voltage Selector Switch” on page 1-4 for
information about setting the correct voltage.)
Setting Up Your System 1-1

If the power cord supplied with your system is not compatible
with the AC wall outlet in your region, obtain a suitable power
cord that meets the following criteria:
The power cord must be rated for at least 125% of the
current rating of the AC voltage system. For more
information, refer to Appendix B.
The power cord connector that plugs into the wall outlet
must terminate in a grounding-type male plug designed for
use in your region.
The power cord connector that plugs into your system must
be an IEC type CEE-22 female connector.
The power cord must be less than 4.5 meters (14.76 feet)
long to comply with the system’s safety requirements.
Caution
Do not use or attempt to modify the supplied AC power
cord if it is not the type required for use in your region.
Installation Overview
The following steps offer an overview of the system installation
process. For detailed instructions on performing these steps,
refer to the specified sections.
1. Set the voltage selector switch on the back of the computer
to the correct input line voltage. (See page 1-4.)
1-2 Setting Up Your System

2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
9.
The keys for the front panel door lock are taped to the inside
of the door. Open the door to remove the keys. (It might be
a little hard to open the door the first time.)
Install any optional equipment you want to add to your
computer, such as disk drives, memory modules, or EISA
option cards. You may not want to install any ISA option
cards yet (unless you will use an ISA card to control your
monitor). See “Installing Optional Equipment,” on page 1-5.
Connect the external devices, such as the monitor, printer,
keyboard, and mouse. See “Connecting Peripheral
Devices,” on page 1-6.
Note
Even if you intend to use this system as a network file
server, you need to connect at least a monitor and a
keyboard to complete the installation. You may remove
them once the installation is complete.
Read “Turning on the System” on page 1-8, before you turn
on the computer.
Read “Configuring Your System” on page 1-10 for
information on the available configuration programs.
If necessary, set the switches or jumpers on any ISA cards
you have not yet installed, and install them in the
computer. See Chapter 6 for instructions.
Connect all of your peripheral devices.
Install your operating system and any other application
programs.
Setting Up Your System 1-3

Setting the Voltage Selector Switch
Your system is powered by a 230 watt power supply. The
power supply voltage is controlled by a voltage selector switch
on the computer’s back panel that may be set to 115 VAC or
230 VAC.
The computer is shipped with the voltage selector switch set to
115 VAC. This setting is appropriate for line source voltages
between 100 and 120 VAC. This is generally the appropriate
setting if you will use the computer in North America or Japan.
If you plan to operate the computer in the United Kingdom or
Europe, you will almost certainly need to reset the voltage
selector switch to 230 VAC. Line source voltages between 200
and 240 VAC are acceptable with the switch set to 230 VAC.
If you need to change the voltage selector switch setting, refer
to the illustration below.
voltage selector switch
1-4
Setting Up Your System