Epson ActionNote 866C User manual

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
ActionNote, ActionPort, and ActionPoint are trademarks 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 owners. EPSON disclaims any and all rights in
those marks.
Printed in Taiwan
Copyright © 1995 by Epson America, Inc.
Torrance, California, USA
400398600-1
1/95
ii

Important Safety Instructions
Read all of these instructions and save them for later reference. Follow
all warnings and instructions marked on the computer.
Turn off the computer before cleaning. Clean with a damp cloth only.
Do not spill liquid on the computer.
Use only the type of power source indicated on the computer’s label.
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.
When travelling by airplane, be sure to take your computer into the
passenger compartment as carry-on luggage to prevent it from being
stored in an unpressurized storage area.
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 Anschluß des Computers an die Netzversorgung muß
sichergestellt werden, daß 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.
lUtiliser seulement le type de source d’alimentation électrique indiqué
sur l’etiquette.
lNe jamais utiliser une prise sur le méme circuit qu’un appareil a
photocopies ou un systéme de contrôle de ventilation avec
commutation marche-arrét automatique.
lS’assurer que le cordon d’alimentation de l’ordinateur n’est pas
abîme ni effiloché.
lDans le cas où 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 supérieure à la 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-méme.
lDebrancher l’ordinateur et contacter un technicien qualifié dans les
circonstances suivantes:
Si le cordon ou la prise sont abîmés; si un liquide a pénéré a
l’intérieur de l’appareil; si on a laissé tomber l’appareil ou si le bonîer
est endommagé; si l’ordinateur ne fonctionne pas normalement ou
fonctionne d'une maniére trés différente de l’ordinaire. N’ajuster que
les commandes dérites dans les directives.
lPour les voyages par avion, prendre l’ordinateur avec soi dans la
cabine comme bagage à main, pour éviter qu’il soit transporté dans
une soute non pressurisée.
lPour 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

Wichtige Sicherheitshinweise
Bitte lesen Sie diese Sicherheitshinweise, und heben Sie sie zur späteren
Verwendung auf. Beachten Sie alle Warnungen und Anweisungen, die
auf dem Computer angebracht sind.
Schalten Sie den Computer vor der Reinigung aus. Verwenden Sie
zur Reinigung nur ein sauberes Tuch. Achten Sie darauf, daß keine
Flüssigkeiten auf dem Computer verschüttet werden.
Verwenden Sie nur die auf dem Typenschild des Computers
angegebene Stromversorgung.
Schließen Sie den Computer nicht an denselben Stromkreis an wie
Fotokopiergeräte oder Klimaanlagen, die sich regelmäßig ein-und
ausschalten.
Achten Sie darauf, daß das Netzkabel des Computers stets in
einwandfreiem Zustand ist.
Stellen Sie bei Verwendung eines Verlängerungskabels sicher, daß
der gesamte Amperewert aller an das Verlängerungskabel
angeschlossenen Geräte den zulässigen Höchstwert des Kabels nicht
überschreitet. Stellen Sie ferner sicher, daß der Gesamtwert aller an
die Wandsteckdose angeschlossenen Geräte 15 Ampere nicht
überschreitet.
Führen Sie keine Wartungsarbeiten am Computer durch, die über
das im Benutzerhmdbuch beschriebene Ausmaß hinausgehen.
Ziehen Sie den Computer heraus, und rufen Sie qualifiziertes
Wartungspersonal, wenn eine der folgenden Bedingungen auftritt:
Das Netzkabel oder der Netzstecker ist beschädigt; Flüssigkeit ist in
den Computer eingetreten; der Computer wurde fallengelassen oder
das Gehäuse ist beschädigt; der Computer funktioniert nicht
ordnungsgemäß oder die Leistung hat sich merklich geändert. Stellen
Sie nur die Bedienelemente ein, die in der Gebrauchsanweisung
beschrieben sind.
Nehmen Sie den Computer bei Flugreisen als Handgepäck mit in den
Fluggastraum, damit er nicht in einem drucklosen Frachtraum
verstaut wird.
V

lBeachten Sie den folgenden Hinweis, wenn Sie den Computer in
Deutschland in Betrieb nehmen:
Beim Anschlulß des Computers an die Netzversorgung muß
sichergestellt werden, dalß die Gebäudeinstallation mit einem 16 A
Überstromschutzschalter abgesichert ist.
vi

FCC COMPLIANCE STATEMENT
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:
Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna
Increase the separation between the equipment and receiver
Connect the equipment into an outlet on a circuit different from that to which the
receiver is connected
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 Blimits for radio noise emissions from
digital apparatus as set out in the radio interference regulations of the Canadian
Department of Communications.
Le présent appareil numkique n’émet pas de bruits radioélectriques d&passant les limites
applicables aux appareils numériques de Classe Bprescrites dans le réglement sur le
brouillage radioélectrique édicté par le Ministére des Communications du Canada.

Contents
Introduction
Computer Features ...........................
2
Optional Equipment ..........................
3
Power-saving Features .........................
4
What This Manual Covers .......................
5
Conventions Used in This Manual ...............
6
Where to Get Help ............................
6
CompuServe On-line Support ..................
7
Chapter 1 Setting Up the Computer
Opening the Screen ...........................
1-1
Identifying the System Components .................
1-2
Front View .............................
1-2
Rear Panel and Left Side .....................
1-3
Using the AC Adapters .........................
1-3
Connecting the Lightweight AC Adapter ...........
1-4
Connecting the International AC Adapter ...........
1-4
Turning the Computer On and Off ..................
1-6
Reading the Indicator Lights ......................
1-8
Making Backup Copies of Your Files .................
1-9
Running the Setup Program ......................
1-9
When to Run Setup ........................
1-10
Starting the Program .......................
1-10
Changing the Settings .......................
1-10
Setting, Deleting, and Changing a Password ..........
1-13
Exiting Setup ............................
1-16
vii

Chapter 2 Using Your Computer
Caring for the Computer ........................
2-2
Protecting the Hard Disk .....................
2-2
Using Energy Wisely ..........................
2-3
Using the Keyboard ...........................
2-4
Using the Fn Key Functions ...................
2-4
Using the Embedded Numeric Keypad ............
2-5
Using the Trackpad ...........................
2-6
Resetting the Computer ........................
2-7
Changing the CPU Speed .......................
2-8
Adjusting the LCD Screen .......................
2-8
Using Password Security ........................
2-8
Entering a System Password ...................
2-9
Entering a Setup Password ....................
2-10
Using Diskettes .............................
2-10
Using Video Drivers and Utilities ...................
2-12
Configuring PC Cards .........................
2-13
Using CardSoft ..........................
2-14
Using CardView ..........................
2-19
Using Fax/ Modem PC Cards ..................
2-20
Using PC Cards with Instant On ................
2-20
Installing Additional PC Card Drivers and Utilities .....
2-21
Chapter 3 Powering the Computer
Using the AC Adapter ...........
Using the Battery ..............
Low Battery Protection ........
Replacing the Battery .........
Recharging the Battery ........
Using the Power Management Features
Automatic Features ..........
Manual Features ............
Using Instant On and Saving to Disk
Using the APM Interface .......
3-1
3-2
3-3
3-3
3-4
3-6
3-7
3-8
3-9
3-10
viii

Chapter 4
Ins falling Optional De vices
Connecting External Components ...................
4-1
Using an External Monitor ....................
4-3
Using the Serial Port ........................
4-3
Using an External Keyboard or Mouse .............
4-4
Installing a PC Card ...........................
4-4
Removing and Replacing the Hard Disk ...............
4-6
Installing Internal Components ....................
4-12
Removing the Keyboard .....................
4-13
Replacing the Keyboard .....................
4-15
Installing a Memory Module ......................
4-16
Upgrading the Microprocessor ....................
4-18
Replacing the Processor ......................
4-19
Setting the Processor Speed, CPU Type, and Voltage Switches 4-22
Installing the Fax/ Modem .......................
4-24
Connecting a Phone Line .....................
4-26
Chapter 5
Troubleshoofing
Identifying Your System .......
Error Messages .............
The Computer Won’t Start ......
Battery Problems ............
AC Adapter Problems ........
The LCD Screen Is Blank .......
The External Monitor Screen Is Blank
The Computer Locks Up .......
Password Problems ..........
Trackpad Problems ..........
External Pointing Device Problems
Diskette Problems ...........
Diskette Drive Problems .......
Hard Disk Problems ..........
Software Problems ...........
Printer Problems ............
Memory Module Problems ......
Fax/ Modem Problems ........
PC Card Problems ...........
5-2
5-4
5-5
5-5
5-7
5-7
5-8
5-9
5-10
5-10
5-11
5-12
5-13
5-13
5-14
5-15
5-15
5-16
5-16
ix

Appendix A Specifications
CPU and Memory .........................
A-1
Controllers .............................A-2
Interfaces ..............................
A-3
Keyboard ..............................
A-3
Trackpad ..............................
A-3
Fax/ Modem ............................A-4
Volume Control ..........................A-4
Mass Storage ...........................A-4
LCD Screen. ............................A-4
Setup Program ...........................A-4
Software ..............................
A-5
Power Sources ...........................
A-5
Environmental Requirements ..................A-6
Physical Dimensions .......................A-6
Optional Equipment .......................A-7
Appendix B Fax/Modem Command Set
AT Commands .............................
B-2
Dial Modifiers ...........................
B-4
AT S Registers ..............................
B-4
Fax Commands .............................
B-6
Result Codes ...............................
B-6
Appendix C Using Your Audio Card
Index
EPSON U.S. and International Marketing Locations
X

Introduction
The EPSON® ActionNoteTM 800 Series notebook computers
provide exceptional speed, display quality, and flexibility-
all delivered by the latest in notebook computer technology.
With the ActionNote’s standard memory and pre-installed
MS-DOS,® Microsoft® Windows,TM and other software, you can
run a vast array of the latest applications, utilities, and games
designed for productivity and for fun.
Your high-capacity hard disk drive will hold the hundreds of
program and data files you will create as you use your
computer. With optional components like the internal audio
card and fax/ modem, you can extend the capabilities of your
ActionNote.
And when you’re ready to upgrade, you can add memory, a
higher-performance processor, or a larger hard disk drive. Your
computer’s two PCMCIA card slots allow you to quickly and
easily add a fax/ modem, flash RAM, local area network (LAN),
or other PC card options.
You can even use your computer like a desktop PC by
connecting an external monitor, keyboard, mouse, and printer.
With the optional ActionPortTM Replicator, you can quickly
switch from portable to desktop usage. The port replicator
includes two PCMCIA slots and an additional serial port, as
well as duplicating the computer’s I/O ports.
Introduction 1

Computer Features
Upgradable 486 microprocessor with integrated math
coprocessor and 8KB of internal cache memory in
write-back mode
4MB or 8MB of RAM, expandable up to 24MB
Backlit LCD screen; 9.5-inch monochrome version emulates
VGA color with 64 shades of gray; 10.3-inch dual-scan STN
and 10.4-inch active-matrix TFT versions offer 256 colors
Upgradable hard disk drive
Video controller with high-speed, 32-bit, local bus
technology supporting resolutions up to 1024 x 768 in
16 colors on an external monitor
State-of-the-art ActionPointTM trackpad with two buttons
Built-in 3.5-inch, 1.44MB diskette drive
Two built-in PCMCIA slots supporting two Type I or
Type II cards or one Type III card
Serial port, bidirectional parallel port, PS/ 2® keyboard/
mouse port, auto-sensing external video port, and port
replicator connector
Long-lasting, rechargeable NiMH (nickel metal hydride)
battery
Lightweight AC adapter
Advanced power management features and “instant-on”
support
Support for security lock
2 Introduction

Preinstalled software on your hard disk drive, including
the latest versions of MS-DOS and Microsoft Windows;
on-line version of this User's Guide, Windows manual, and
other manuals, providing instructions and information
while you are on the road
Your ActionNote has been configured for you and the hard
disk drive already contains most of the software you need. In
addition, drivers and utilities for your PCMCIA card slots,
video system, and trackpad have already been installed.
See the About EPSON on-line group for the latest information
about your computer and the software, manuals, diskettes, and
brochures that are included.
Optional Equipment
You can easily upgrade your ActionNote with the equipment
listed below. See Chapter 4 for instructions on installing
internal options.
Internal 14.4 fax/ modem, including software
16-bit stereo audio card; Business Audio and Sound Blaster
PRO’“-compatible, with drivers and software applications
4MB, 8MB, 16MB, or 20MB memory module
Higher-performance microprocessor
Higher-capacity hard disk drive
Extra battery pack
Extra AC adapter or international AC adapter
Auto adapter
Introduction 3

External battery charger
Security lock
ActionPort Replicator
Type I, II, and III PC cards.
For information on purchasing optional equipment, see the
Accessories icon in the About EPSON on-line group.
Power-saving Features
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. Your computer’s power management features place
the system in a low-power suspend mode when it has been
inactive for a specified period of time. The Setup program lets
you select different time-out periods for the hard disk drive
and LCD screen so you can ensure that the power management
features fit the way you work.
Note
If you use an Energy Star compliant external monitor with
your computer, it also goes into a low-power standby mode
because it is not receiving video signals from your computer.
(Screens on non-compliant monitors go blank but do not
enter a low-power mode.)
4 Introduction

What This Manual Covers
You do not need to read everything in this book to use your
computer; see the following chapter summaries:
Chapter 1 provides steps for setting up your computer.
Chapter 2 covers basic information about using the computer.
Chapter 3 explains how to power your computer with the AC
adapter or the battery and how to conserve battery power.
Chapter 4 describes how to connect optional devices and
upgrade your computer.
Chapter 5 provides troubleshooting tips.
Appendix A lists the computer’s specifications.
Appendix B summarizes the built-in commands for the
optional internal fax/ modem.
Appendix C provides basic information about the optional
audio card and audio software.
At the end of the manual, you’ll find an Index and a list of
EPSON’s U.S. and international marketing locations.
Introduction 5

Conventions Used in This Manual
This manual uses the following conventions in the text:
ExampIe Meaning
Enter Keysyou presson the keyboard
Fn F10 Keysyou press at the same time; hold down the
key marked Fn and press the F10 key
C:\DOS Text as it appearson the screen
DISKCOPY A: C: Text that you type exactly as shown
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:
Technical assistance with the installation, configuration,
and operation of EPSON products
Assistance in locating your nearest Authorized EPSON
Reseller or Customer Care Center
Assistance with Extra Care Road Service
Customer relations
EPSON technical information library fax service
Product literature on current and new products.
6 Introduction

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 5 for more
information.
If you purchased your computer in the United States or
Canada, EPSON also provides Extra Care Road Service. Your
ActionNote package should contain information on this
program; if not, call the EPSON Connection.
If you purchased your computer outside the United States or
Canada, contact your Authorized EPSON Servicer or the
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.
CompuServe On-line Support
Your computer includes the CompuServe WinCIM®
information manager installed on your hard disk drive and a
free trial subscription to CompuServe’s extended services and
forums. The brochure that came with your computer describes
all the CompuServe services and how to access them, as well as
providing subscription information.
Note
To access CompuServe, you must have a modem. you can
install the optional internal fax/ modem, connect an external
modem to your serial port, or install a fax/ modem PC card.
Introduction 7

The fastest way to access helpful tips, specifications, drivers,
application notes, and bulletins for EPSON products is through
the Epson America Forum on CompuServe.
To access the Epson America Forum in WinCIM, simply click
on the green traffic light icon and type EPSON at the menu
prompt.
8 Introduction

Chapter- 1
Setting Up the Computer
This chapter describes how to set up your computer. It covers:
Opening the screen
Identifying the system components
Connecting the AC adapter
Turning the computer on and off
Reading the indicator lights
Backing up files
Running the Setup program
Opening the Screen
To open the LCD screen, slide the latches on each side of the
computer’s lid and lift up the screen.
Setting Up the Computer 1-1