Epson® Equity™ LT-286e User’s Guide Corrections Please note that your Epson Equity LT-286e provides support for an 80287 math coprocessor. Pages 2,1-17, and C-l of your User’s Guide incorrectly refer to a CMOS 8OC287 math coprocessor. Do not attempt to install an 80C287 math coprocessor in the computer. You can install an 8 MHz 80287 math coprocessor only. Please note that your video display has two modes: 1. The default mode displays white characters on a black background.
EPSON ® EQUlTYTMLTTM-286e User’s Guide
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.
FCC COMPLIANCE STATEMENT FOR AMERICAN USERS This equipment generates and uses radio frequency energy and if it is not installed and used properly, that is, in strict accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions, it may cause interference to radio and television reception.
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Contents Introduction How To Use This Manual . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4 Where To Get Help . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5 Chapter 1 Setting Up Your System 1 Unpacking.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2 Installing the Hard Disk Drive. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3 Connecting a Printer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Using the Parallel Interface . .
Defining LCD Options . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Backlight Period . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . LCD Adjustment Options . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Gray scale modes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Reverse video mode . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Special Keys on the Equity LT-286e Keyboard . . . . . . . . . . . . Using Diskettes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Formatting Diskettes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Formatting a 1.44MB Diskette . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Formatting a 720KB Diskette . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Copying Data . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Using DISKCOPY . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Using COPY . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Using BACKUP . . . . . . . . . . . .
Appendix A DIP Switches and Slide Switches Setting the DIP Switches . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Accessing the DIP Switches. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Replacing the Expansion Card Cover . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Setting the Slide Switches . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Appendix B Installing Options Connecting an External Color Monitor. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Connecting an External Diskette Drive. . . . . . . . . . .
Introduction Your Epson® Equity™ LT™-286e portable computer is a compact, high-performance system you can use just about anywhere: at the office, at home, or on the road. Its rechargeable battery lets you use it in remote locations when you don’t have access to an electrical outlet. With the AC adapter connected, you can use the computer as long as you like and recharge the battery in the process.
The 80C286 microprocessor inside your Equity LT-286e can run at an execution speed of either 12 MHz or 8 MHz. Ordinarily, you’ll want to use the 12 MHz speed to get faster performance from your computer; a few application programs may require the 8 MHz speed. A slide switch allows you to change the speed. The Equity LT-286e also has a built-in socket for an 80C287 math coprocessor, which you can easily install or have installed by an authorized Epson dealer or Customer Care Center.
LI An additional battery pack Cl An additional AC adapter CL An adapter for an external, Epson keyboard CI Carrying case. Your Equity LT-286e comes with MS-DOS? version 4.01, by Microsoft? MS-DOS 4.01 provides a new Shell feature that lets you run programs and choose operating system commands from menus instead of the MS-DOS command prompt.
You can use any application program designed for the IBM Personal Computer, PC XT™ or PC AT on your Equity LT-286e. How To Use This Manual This manual explains how to set up and care for your Equity LT-286e. It also describes how to use your computer and run diagnostic checks. The eight steps in Chapter 1 explain how to set up your computer and prepare it for use.
Appendix C lists the Equity LT-286e hardware specifications. At the back of the manual is a glossary of computer terms. Where To Get Help Customer support and service for Epson products is provided by a network of authorized Epson dealers and Customer Care Centers throughout the United States. Epson America provides product information and support to its dealers and Customer Care Centers. Therefore, we ask that you contact the business where you purchased your Epson product to request assistance.
Chapter 1 Setting Up Your System Setting up your Epson Equity LT-286e portable computer is easy. Just follow the steps in this chapter. They describe how to attach the hard disk, connect a printer, and attach the AC adapter and power cord that come with your Equity LT-286e. After assembling these parts, you start the computer and run the system SETUP program. After you perform these steps, turn to Chapter 2 for information about using the computer.
If your system does not match this configuration, you need to change the appropriate switches as described in Appendix A before you begin. If you plan to modify your computer by attaching an external monitor or diskette drive, see Appendix B for instructions. Do not turn on the computer, printer, or any peripherals until the instructions tell you to do so. Otherwise, you may damage some part of your equipment. 1 1-2 Unpacking As you unpack the components, be sure to inspect each item.
In addition to this manual, you should have the following items: Cl The main unit 5 The battery pack Ll The AC adapter 5 The power cord Ll The hard disk drive Ll The three MS-DOS diskettes: Install, Operating, and Shell Cl The MS-DOS manuals: MS-DOS Installation Guide, MS-DOS Reference Manual, MS-DOS Shell User’s Guide, MS-DOS Command Summary. You’ll also find a registration card with the main unit. Fill out this card now and mail it to Epson.
Follow these steps to install the hard disk drive: 1. Unwrap the hard disk drive. 2. Face the front of the computer and hold the hard disk drive with the PUSH button on the left and the retractable tabs on the right. 3. Position the hard disk drive directly above the hard disk drive slot on the computer. The connectors on the hard disk drive fit into the sockets on the computer.
4. Keep the hard disk drive level and lower it straight down into the hard disk drive slot. If you lower either side first, the connectors do not fit into the sockets. 5. Press firmly (but carefully) on the hard disk drive until it snaps into place. The TYPE indicator on the left side identifies the type of hard disk drive. You use this TYPE for the SETUP program. A 20MB hard disk is TYPE 2; a 40MB hard disk is TYPE 17. A new hard disk drive must be partitioned and formatted to run an operating system.
3 Connecting a Printer The Equity LT-286e has both parallel and serial interfaces (ports). You can easily connect a printer or plotter that has either type of interface. Just follow the instructions below. Of course, Epson offers a full range of printer products; consult your Epson dealer for more information. Using the Parallel Interface The computer’s Centronics®-compatible parallel interface provides a 25-pin, D-shaped female connector. Most Epson printers have parallel interfaces.
3. Press down on the release tab to open the computer’s interface cover, as shown below. 4. One end of the printer cable has a 25-pin, D-shaped male connector. (See your printer manual if you cannot identify this connector.) Connect this end to the parallel connector labeled PRINTER on the right side of the computer, as shown below. If the plug has retaining screws, tighten them by hand or with a screwdriver.
5. Connect the other end of the cable to the printer as shown in the following illustration. To secure the cable, squeeze the clips at each side of the printer connector and push them into place. 6. Plug the printer’s power cable into an electrical outlet. The standard DIP switch settings for the LT-286e define your parallel port as the primary parallel port. If you think the DIP switch settings have been changed or you would like a different setting, see “Setting the DIP Switches” in Appendix A.
Using the Serial Interface If you have a printer or other peripheral device that uses a serial interface, connect it to the serial interface labeled RS-232C on the right side of the computer. serial pot-l The Equity LT-286e uses an IBM PC AT-compatible, 9-pin, D-shaped male connector, so be sure you have a compatible cable or an adapting cable that converts the 9-pin output to the standard 25-pin output. To connect a serial device, follow the steps above for connecting a parallel device.
4 Connecting the AC Adapter Follow these steps to connect the AC adapter: 1. Make sure the computer’s power switch (located on the right side of the computer) is turned off. 2. Turn the computer around so the back panel is facing you. Position the back panel slightly over the edge of the desk or table. 3. The end of the AC adapter cable is shaped like a box. Notice the plastic safety cover that protects the connector on the AC adapter.
4. Slide this box up into the slots on the connector on the back panel of the computer. Press the connector box up until it snaps into place. Be sure to read “Using the AC Adapter” in Chapter 2 for more information about the AC adapter.
When you are not using the AC adapter, replace the safety cover that protects the connector. WARNING Do not connect or disconnect the AC adapter when the computer is turned on. Keep the AC adapter at least six inches away from your computer and disks.
Connecting the Power Cord Follow these steps to connect the power cord: 1. Connect the power cord to the adapter’s input socket. 2. Plug the other end of the power cord into a grounded, 120-volt, AC wall outlet.
6 Starting the System After you complete steps 1 through 5, you’re ready to turn on the power and start using your Equity LT-286e computer. Read these safety rules first to avoid accidentally damaging your computer or injuring yourself: Cl Do not attempt to dismantle any part of the computer. If there is a hardware problem you cannot solve after reading Chapter 4 on troubleshooting, consult your Epson dealer.
To turn on your computer, follow these steps: 1. Turn on any peripheral devices, such as a printer, an external diskette drive, or a color monitor. 2. Turn on the computer by pressing the power switch on the right side of the computer. Press the switch toward the back of the computer. power switch The speed indicator on the status bar shows your operating speed (12 MHz), and after a few seconds the computer begins to perform an internal self test.
Adjusting Screen Contrast and Brightness If you cannot see text on the screen clearly, use the levers on the right side of the screen to adjust the screen’s contrast and brightness. The levers are shown below: The contrast lever on the right determines how bright the characters appear against the background. To increase the contrast, move the lever up. To decrease it, move the lever down. The brightness lever on the left controls the intensity of the screen’s backlighting.
7 Running the SETUP Program When you turn on your computer for the first time, run the SETUP program to define how your computer is set up. This is a simple procedure that you must do at least once. You may need to do it again later if you want to change a setting. The SETUP program is stored in read-only memory (ROM). You can access this program only when you turn on or reset the computer.
Starting the SETUP Program After the self test completes, you see this prompt: Press key to run SETUP utility. To start the SETUP program, follow these steps: 1. Press Del. 2. You see this message and prompt: Want to run SETUP utility (Y/N)? Press Y and Enter. 3. You see a screen titled CMOS SETUP. The first prompt is: Current d a t e i s . . . . . . . m m - d d - y y y y Enter new date (MM-DD-YYYY)?... Enter the correct date in the format shown, or press Enter to use the displayed date.
5. The SETUP program now displays the type of display you are using and the current screen width. You cannot change these definitions; the computer automatically determines the type of display you are using based on your DIP switch settings. The first time you run SETUP, you must define the type of hard disk drive you have installed. You see this warning: ***WARNING*** Entering the wrong disk drive TYPE causes improper operation of the disk. If disk not installed, press .
The screen shows you these values to enter for diskette drives: ( 1 ) = 1 . 2 M B , 5 1/4" diskette drive (2) = 720 KB, 3 1/2" diskette drive (3) = 1.44 MB, 3 1/2" diskette drive Press 3 and Enter for drive A. 8. SETUP displays this prompt: Enter diskette drive B type (1-3)? . . . . If you have an external diskette drive attached, enter type 1. If you have not installed an external drive, press Enter. 9. After you specify the disk drive types, SETUP displays other system parameters.
If you need to make corrections to the settings, press N and Enter. SETUP returns to the date and time prompts, and you can make corrections to your selections. If the settings are correct, continue with step 8, “Inserting the Install Diskette.” When you run the SETUP program again, you are not asked to specify the hard disk drive types. SETUP automatically displays the type you specified the first time you ran the program.
2. Now press Y and Enter in response to the SETUP program prompt: Are these options correct (Y/N)? The system reboots with the new setup information. You see the self test and the SETUP prompt. 3. This time ignore the SETUP prompt. The computer automatically loads the operating system and starts the MS-DOS installation program, which is called SELECT. The SELECT program automatically partitions and formats your hard disk, creates an AUTOEXEC.BAT file and a CONFIG.
Chapter 2 Using the Equity LT-286e This chapter describes some basic procedures for using your computer. Using the AC Adapter The Equity LT-286e can be powered by its external battery pack or by the AC adapter. When you connect the AC adapter to the computer and to an electrical outlet, the outlet supplies the power to the computer. To preserve the battery’s charge, use the AC adapter whenever you have access to an electrical outlet.
WARNING Keep the AC adapter at least six inches away from your computer and any disks. Do not connect or disconnect the AC adapter when the computer is turned on. Using the Battery The battery pack that comes with the Equity LT-286e contains NiCad (nickel cadmium) batteries that power the computer when the AC adapter is not connected. The battery pack is rechargeable.
Remember the following when you are charging the battery: LI Use only the AC adapter that comes with the Equity LT-286e. Using a different adapter can damage the computer and/or the battery pack. D Charge the battery for at least eight hours. If you charge the battery for short periods, it runs low sooner. The length of time the battery provides power after being charged depends on how you are using the computer. A fully charged battery provides approximately one to four hours of use.
To maximize the charge time your battery supplies, completely discharge and then recharge the battery from time to time. To do this, follow these steps: 1. Let the battery drain all the way down. 2. When the Battery in Use icon starts to flash, save your work in progress (if any) and exit any program you are using. 3. Leave the computer on, but do not use it. After about 10 to 20 minutes, the icons on the status indicator bar go dark, indicating the battery is discharged. 4.
4. Align the two metal connectors on the battery pack with the slots on the back of the computer, as shown below. 5. Pull the battery pack up until it snaps into place. When the battery pack is connected, you can either use the power from the battery pack or attach the AC adapter for unlimited power. To remove the battery pack, follow these steps: 1. Make sure the computer is off. 2. Disconnect the AC adapter. 3. Turn the computer around so the back is facing you.
4. While pulling the release tabs (on each side of the battery pack) toward you, press down on the battery pack. Slide the battery pack down and off the computer. Note When you are not using the battery pack, replace the safety cover that protects the metal connector.
Status Indicator Bar The status indicator bar above the keyboard provides information about the computer’s operation. cl Indicates when you are accessing the hard disk drive. Indicates when you are accessing the internal diskette drive. EXT.FD 12 MHZ Indicates when the FDD EXTANT slide switch is in the EXT position. Displays the current CPU clock speed, either 8 MHz or 12 MHz. Indicates when you are using the battery pack; blinks when the battery pack charge is low.
Indicates when you can use the LCD display; blinks when the display is in standby mode. SCRL Indicates when the internal keyboard is in Scroll Lock mode; does not respond to the modes of an external keyboard. NUM Indicates when the internal keyboard is in Num Lock mode; does not respond to the modes of an external keyboard. CAPS Indicates when the internal keyboard is in Caps Lock mode; does not respond to the modes of an external keyboard.
Opening and Closing the Screen When you are not using the computer or you want to move it, turn it off and close the screen, as shown below. Be sure the screen locks into the bottom part of the computer. To open the screen, press the latch release button in the center of the computer (shown below). Then lift the screen back. You can position the screen at a variety of viewing angles.
Note Always set the computer in a flat, horizontal position before opening it. If you close the screen while the computer is running, you hear a warning beep. Always turn off the computer before closing the screen. Using the Handle The Equity LT-286e has a convenient carrying handle. To use the handle, pull it out from the computer, as shown below. Be sure the screen is closed whenever you carry the computer by its handle.
Selecting Execution Speed The Equity LT-286e can operate at two execution speeds: 8 MHz and 12 MHz. At the higher speed, the computer performs all tasks more quickly. You can select the slower speed to run application programs that have specific timing requirements and to prolong the battery’s charge. WARNING Do not change the execution speed while you are running a program. Always complete your current operation and exit the program first. You must turn the computer off before changing execution speed.
Defining LCD Options The SETLCD utility defines certain options for your LCD screen: 0 The backlight period-You can turn off backlighting on the LCD screen if the computer is not used for a period of time; this prolongs the battery’s charge. CI The gray scale-You can select one of four available gray scale modes. The gray-scale mode governs the way your LCD screen displays color information. Q The reverse video mode-You can display in normal mode, white on black, or in reverse mode, black on white.
where XX can be any value from 1 to 60. Then press Enter. For example, to turn off the screen’s backlighting after two minutes, type: SETLCD /2 and press Enter. If you don’t press any key for two minutes, the system automatically turns off the screen’s backlighting. To turn it on again, press any key. To do this without disturbing a program running on your computer, press Shift, Ctrl, or Alt.
LCD Adjustment Options After you load the SETLCD program (by typing SETLCD /xx and pressing Enter), you see these messages: Follow these steps to change the LCD display performance: Step 1: Press "Ctrl" & "left-shift" simultaneously. Step 2: Press "S" to change the LCD color palette on the screen. Step 3: Press "I" to invert the BLACK/WHITE on the LCD. Step 4: Press ANY OTHER KEY to resume the keyboard function. The backlight will turn off after xx minute(s).
Reverse video mode The reverse video function lets you display text on the LCD screen in normal or reverse mode. In normal mode, the LCD displays white characters on a black background. In reverse mode, the LCD displays black characters on a white background. After you load the SETLCD program and enter the LCD adjustment mode as described above, press I to reverse the display mode. (The I stands for invert.) Press I again to switch back to normal mode. Press Enter to exit this function.
The Num Lock, Scroll Lock, and Caps Lock keys work as toggles; press them once to turn on a function and again to turn it off. When a function is on, the corresponding light on the status indicator bar is illuminated. When a function is off, the light is off. The following table describes special keys on the Equity LT-286e keyboard. 2-16 Key Purpose F1 - F10 Perform special functions within application programs. Esc Cancels the current command line or operation in some application programs.
Key Purpose Caps Lock Changes the letter keys from lowercase to uppercase; changes back to lowercase when pressed again. This key does not affect the numeric/symbol keys on the top row of the keyboard. Ins Turns the insert function on and off. Del Deletes the character at the cursor. Enter J Ends a line of keyboard input or executes a command. t Moves the cursor back one space, deleting the character to the left (Backspace). Home, End, PgUp, PgDn t-+.
How Diskettes Work The diskettes you use are flexible plastic, coated with a magnetic material and enclosed in a protective plastic case. Information is recorded in magnetic patterns on both surfaces of the diskette. Because data is stored magnetically, you can retrieve, record, and erase data, just as you play, record, and erase music on cassette tapes. When you insert a diskette in a drive, a metal shutter above the diskette’s access area moves aside to expose the diskette surface.
Because of their size difference, you cannot use a 3 ‘/z-inch diskette in a 5 ‘/.+-inch drive or vice versa. If you have both types of drives, however, you can copy individual files or groups of files from one drive to the other with the COPY and XCOPY commands. See Chapter 3 or your MS-DOS manuals for information about the COPY and XCOPY commands. You need to format new diskettes before you can use them. Formatting prepares a diskette to receive data.
Cl Keep diskettes away from magnetic fields. (Remember, diskettes store data magnetically; strong magnetic fields can scramble that data.) Do not set your diskettes on such common magnetic sources as electrical appliances, telephones, television sets, and loudspeakers. Do not place your diskettes near your hard disk drive or the AC adapter. Ll Keep diskettes in a moderate environment. They work best at room temperature and in normal humidity.
Inserting and Removing Diskettes To insert a diskette into the drive, hold it with the label facing up and the arrow on the left side pointing into the computer: Slide the diskette into the drive until it clicks into place. To remove a diskette, press the release button on the diskette drive. When the diskette pops out of the drive, pull it out and store it properly in a diskette container. WARNING Never remove a diskette or turn off the computer while the diskette drive icon is on.
Making Backup Copies Copy all diskettes that contain programs. After you make your copies, store the originals in a safe place away from your working diskettes and use only the copies. For general instructions on copying diskettes or hard disk files, see Chapter 3 or your MS-DOS Reference Manual. Write-Protecting Diskettes You can write-protect a diskette to prevent its data from being altered.
To remove the write protection, move the switch up toward the center of the diskette to cover the opening. Using the Hard Disk Drive Unlike a diskette, a hard disk is rigid and fixed in place. It is sealed in a protective environment free of dust and dirt. A hard disk stores data the same way as a diskette, but it works much faster and has a much larger storage capacity.
0 Never remove the hard disk unit when the computer’s power is on. 0 Never attempt to open the hard disk unit. The disk itself is enclosed in an airtight container to protect it from dust. Q Keep the AC adapter at least six inches away from your computer and disks. Protecting the Data on Your Hard Disk Although the hard disk is very reliable, you must back up your hard disk files onto diskettes in case you lose some data accidentally.
Turning Off the Hard Disk If you are running the computer on its battery and you do not need to use the hard disk, you can use the HDDPSAVE utility to turn off the hard disk to prolong the battery’s charge. If you are using the AC adapter, you don’t need to turn off the hard disk. You specify the amount of time (between 1 and 18 minutes) you want the computer to wait before it turns off the hard disk. After the hard disk drive is off, the computer must turn the hard disk back on to access it.
Q Install the appropriate keyboard information for the country in which you’re using your computer Q Allow you to start the MS-DOS Shell program. These instructions ensure that your system starts up properly each time you boot it from the hard disk. See your MS-DOS Installation Guide for details. You’ll also want to add the SETLCD and HDDPSAVE utilities to your AUTOEXEC.BAT file.
- Resetting the Computer You can reset the computer to reload the operating system or to restart a program. You may also need to do this if an error occurs and the computer does not respond to anything you type. Resetting, however, erases any data in the computer’s temporary memory (RAM) that you have not stored; so be careful when you reset your computer. In MS-DOS, you can hold down Ctrl and press C or Break to stop a program’s operation and return to the MS-DOS command prompt.
Turning Off the Computer Before you turn off your computer, save your data, exit the program you are using, and then remove all diskettes from the disk drives. First turn off any peripherals, such as a printer, a monitor, or an external diskette drive. Then turn off the computer.
Chapter 3 Using MS-DOS With Your Computer Your Equity LT-286e comes with version 4.01 of MS-DOS. MS-DOS manages the routine work of your computer system, such as keeping the computer’s memory organized, controlling the screen display, accepting keyboard input, and directing external communications. To communicate with the operating system, you use MS-DOS commands. How much you need to know about MS-DOS depends on how you plan to use your computer.
LI Using the MS-DOS Shell program CI Using the Epson HELP utility CI Using the Epson MENU utility 0 Using an AUTOEXEC.BAT file Ki Starting an application program The information presented in this chapter assumes you are running MS-DOS from the MS-DOS command prompt, not from the MS-DOS Shell program. If you plan to use Shell, see the MS-DOS Shell User’s Guide for a complete description of how to execute commands using Shell.
The C> prompt that appears when you load MS-DOS from the hard disk tells you that drive C, your hard disk, is the current drive (also called the default drive). The current drive is the one that MS-DOS uses for all commands unless you specify a different drive. For example, if the current drive is drive C and you type the name of a program, MS-DOS searches drive C for the program. If you want to run a program or find a data file on a different drive, you must specify the name of that drive.
The MS-DOS Command Format To enter an MS-DOS command, you need to type the command in the correct format. The MS-DOS command format consists of the command name, parameters, and delimiters. The command name tells MS-DOS the task you want to perform. Parameters are items that identify the data you want to process (such as a filename) and change the way a command works. Delimiters are characters such as spaces or commas that separate command names and parameters.
Entering MS-DOS Commands You can enter an MS-DOS command when you see the MS-DOS command prompt. Type the command name and any necessary parameters and delimiters, and then press Enter to execute the command. You can type command names in either uppercase or lowercase letters. If you make a mistake when typing a command and you notice it before you press Enter, you can do one of two things: Cl Use the backspace key to back up and correct the error LI Press Esc to cancel the command line.
The name can be up to eight characters in length. It is a good idea to choose a name that describes the contents of the file. You can use any characters except blank spaces and the following symbols: * \ / [ ] : | < > + = ; . ? The extension is optional and can be up to three characters long. You can use the extension to describe the type of data contained in the file-for example, TXT for a text file. When you use an extension, separate it from the filename with a period, like this: DATA.
When you format your hard disk, MS-DOS creates a single directory for the disk. This directory is called the root directory. Because the hard disk has room for hundreds of files, MS-DOS allows you to create additional directories, called subdirectories. Subdirectories allow you to organize your hard disk to keep files of similar type or purpose together. Without subdirectories, it would be difficult to keep track of all the files on your hard disk. You can also create subdirectories on your diskettes.
On your own hard disk, you can create a subdirectory structure that is more complex than this one. Or you may prefer to keep things simple. Organize your disk to suit your own needs; you can modify the structure as your needs change. When creating subdirectories, note the following points: CI Any directory can have any number of subdirectories (except the root directory, which is limited in the number of files and subdirectories). Cl You name subdirectories in the same way as files.
Q Changing directories Ll Copying from one directory to another c3 Deleting a directory. You may also want to read about Shell, an MS-DOS program that makes it easier to perform these functions, as well as others. You can use Shell to generate a visual diagram of your subdirectory structure, to move quickly between directories, to add and remove directories, and so on. Shell is described in the MS-DOS Shell User’s Guide.
To list the files in a different directory on the current drive, type the pathname of that directory. For example, to list the contents of the LEDGER subdirectory while logged onto drive C, type DIR \LEDGER and press Enter. (Pathnames are described below.) Using Pathnames Whenever you want to access a file that is not in the current directory, you must specify the file’s pathname. A full pathname consists of one or more directory names separated by backslashes and followed by the filename.
Because this pathname does not begin with a backslash, MS-DOS starts in the current directory (PERSONAL), moves to the subdirectory LETTERS, then finds the file APRIL.TXT. If you did begin with the backslash, MS-DOS would not find the file, because it is located in a subdirectory of PERSONAL, not of the root directory. Creating Directories The MKDIR command lets you create directories.
The screen displays a list of files in the root directory, along with the names of any subdirectories of the root directory: LEDGER
WORDPROC 25307 COMMAND COM 209 CONFIG SYS AUTOEXEC BAT 309 9-14-89 10:17a 9-14-89 10:32a 3-17-88 12:00a 9-14-89 10:48a 9-14-88 12:11p 3 File(s) 18625536 bytes free The list identifies the subdirectories by the letters . Changing Directories You can use any directory as your current or working directory.To change from any directory to its parent directory (the directory of which it is a subdirectory), type the following and press Enter: CD . . The two periods represent the parent directory. To return to the root directory from any subdirectory, type the following and press Enter: CD \ Copying From One Directory to Another The COPY command lets you copy files from one directory to another.
Deleting a Directory If you no longer need a directory, you can remove it with the RMDIR command (which can be abbreviated RD). Before removing a directory, you must delete any files it contains or move them to a different directory. You can only delete a directory that is empty. (To delete files from a directory, use the DEL or ERASE command. See “Deleting Data,” below.
Formatting a 1.44 MB Diskette To format a 1.44MB diskette, follow these steps: 1. If necessary, log onto drive C. If you are not in the directory containing the file FORMAT.COM, change to that directory. For example, if FORMAT.COM is stored in a subdirectory named DOS, type CD \DOS and press Enter. 2. Type the following and press Enter: FORMAT A: You see this prompt: Insert new diskette for drive A: and strike ENTER when ready... 3. Insert the diskette you want to format into drive A and press Enter.
At this point, you can format another diskette by pressing Y and Enter, or return to the MS-DOS command prompt by pressing N and Enter. Formatting a 720KB Diskette To format a 720KB diskette in a 1.44MB drive, follow these steps: 1. If necessary, log onto drive C. If you are not in the directory containing the file FORMAT.COM, use the CD command to change to that directory. 2.
4. Enter up to 11 characters for the volume label to be stored on the diskette and press Enter. FORMAT displays these messages: 730112 bytes total disk space 730112 bytes available on disk 1024 bytes in each allocation unit 713 allocation units available on disk Volume Serial Number is 1C55-14C6 Format another (Y/N)? At this point, you can format another diskette by pressing Y and Enter, or return to the MS-DOS command prompt by pressing N and Enter.
Note The MENU utility makes it easy to perform these functions. See the section on MENU later in this chapter. You can also use the MS-DOS XCOPY command to copy entire subdirectories of files. See your MS-DOS manuals for details. Using DISKCOPY The DISKCOPY command lets you copy an exact image of one diskette onto another diskette as long as the two diskettes are the same size and type. You cannot use DISKCOPY to copy data from a 3 ‘/z-inch diskette to a 5 ‘/+-inch diskette or to copy data from a 1.
4. Insert the diskette you want to copy from (your source diskette) in the diskette drive and press any key. DISKCOPY copies the contents of the diskette to the computer’s memory. When memory is full, the screen displays this message: Insert TARGET diskette in drive A: Press any key to continue . . . 5. Remove the diskette from drive A and insert the blank diskette (your target diskette) in the drive. Press any key. DISKCOPY formats the diskette, if necessary.
Using COPY The COPY command lets you copy files in several ways: CI Copy individual files from a diskette or the hard disk to another diskette or hard disk LI Copy a group of files using wildcard characters (wildcard characters are explained below) Ll Copy one or more files and give them new names D Combine or merge files into one file. A few simple rules apply to all uses of COPY: CI You must tell MS-DOS where to find the source file and where to store the target file.
If you want to copy this file from the diskette in drive A to the hard disk but want to change the name of the copy from REPORT to FACTS, type this command and press Enter: COPY A:REPORT C:FACTS To make a copy of this file on the diskette in drive A and assign the name FACTS to the copy, type the following and press Enter: COPY A:REPORT A:FACTS In this case, you must assign a new name to the copy, because MS-DOS does not allow two files in the same directory to have the same name.
To copy all files on the diskette in drive A to the current directory on the hard disk, type the following and press Enter: COPY A:*.* C: To copy all files with names that begin with the four letters MEMO and end with any single character, type the following and press Enter: COPY A:MEMO? C: You can also use the COPY command to combine a number of files into one file.
Cl The BACKUP command can perform incremental backups. That is, you can copy only those files that changed since the last time you used the BACKUP command. This also results in more efficient diskette use. Ci The BACKUP command can format new diskettes as it copies files. You don’t have to go through a separate formatting step when you use BACKUP.
Deleting Data To delete a file, type DEL and then the full name (including the extension, if any) of the file you wish to delete. For example, to delete the file named APRIL.TXT from the current directory, type the following and press Enter: DEL APRIL.TXT You can delete all files in the current directory at once by typing the following and pressing Enter: DEL *.* For your protection, when you type DEL *.* MS-DOS asks if you are sure that is what you want to do. If you are sure, press Y, then Enter.
Using HELP The Epson HELP utility provides on-line information about the MS-DOS commands and programs. You can use HELP in either of two ways: Ll To display the HELP menu, type HELP at the command prompt and press Enter Cl To bypass the menu, type HELP plus the name of the command you want information about. To use the HELP menu, follow these steps: 1. Type HELP at the MS-DOS command prompt and press Enter. 2. The screen displays a menu of MS-DOS commands.
To bypass the HELP menu and display information about a specific command, follow these steps: 1. At the command prompt, type HELP and the name of the MS-DOS command you want information about. Then press Enter. For example, to see information about the COPY command, type the following and press Enter: HELP COPY 2. If there is more than one page of information about the command, you see the prompt PgUp at the top of the screen. Press PgUp to display the rest of the text. 3.
Using MENU Your Equity LT-286e comes with an Epson utility called MENU. This program gives you access to several utilities that perform the functions of some of the most commonly used MS-DOS commands. MENU lets you execute several commands without having to remember the exact format for each one. To access the MENU utility, log onto the directory containing the file MENU.EXE. Type MENU at the command prompt and press Enter.
MENU Utility Options The MENU utility offers five options: File Utilities Lets you back up and restore files, replace files, compare files, change file attributes, copy files, and copy directories. This option does the work of these MS-DOS commands: BACKUP, RESTORE, REPLACE, FC, Al-I-RIB, and XCOPY. Disk Utilities Lets you check, copy, compare, and format diskettes. This option gives you easy-touse alternatives to the MS-DOS CHKDSK, DISKCOPY, DISKCOMP, and FORMAT commands.
Using an AUTOEXEC.BAT File You may find that there are some commands you need to run every time you turn on your computer. To run a command or a series of commands automatically upon startup, you can type the commands into a special file called AUTOEXEC.BAT. When you load MS-DOS, it automatically looks for this file. If there is an AUTOEXECBAT file in the root directory, MS-DOS executes the commands in that file. Here are some suggestions for tasks you can perform using an AUTOEXEC.
Creating an AUTOEXEC.BAT File You can create an AUTOEXEC.BAT file with any program that lets you store a text-only file (also called an ASCII text file). If your word processing program can save a file as a text-only file, you can use that program to create an AUTOEXEC.BAT file. Just be sure to name the file AUTOEXEC.BAT and store it in the root directory of the hard disk. You can also use the MS-DOS COPY command to create an AUTOEXEC.BAT file. Follow these instructions to use the COPY command: 1.
Starting an Application Program Any time you see the MS-DOS command prompt (for example, A> or C>), you can start using an application program. Just log onto the drive and directory containing your application program files (if necessary) and type the name of the program’s executable file. (See the documentation for your application program if you are not sure what to type.) When you press Enter, MS-DOS runs the application program. When you exit the program, the MS-DOS command prompt reappears.
Chapter 4 Troubleshooting You should not encounter any difficulties as you set up and use your Equity LT-286e. You can correct most problems by adjusting a cable connection, changing a DIP switch or slide switch setting, repeating a software procedure, or resetting the computer. If anything out of the ordinary happens, turn to this chapter for a solution. If the suggestions in this chapter do not solve the problem, contact your Epson dealer.
WARNING When you turn off the computer, always wait at least five seconds before turning it back on. You can damage your computer if you turn it off and on rapidly. 2. If the status indicator bar still does not come on, turn off the power switch. Check that the AC adapter is securely connected to both the computer (or the battery pack) and an electrical outlet. Make sure the green LED on the AC adapter is illuminated. Then turn the power back on. 3.
4. If you still do not see an image on the screen, contact your Epson dealer. The Monitor Screen Is Blank If you are using an external color monitor and no image appears on its screen, follow these steps to solve the problem: 1. Be sure the power switches on the computer and monitor are turned on. 2. Use the controls on the monitor to adjust the brightness and contrast. 3. Remove any diskette from drive A, then turn off the power switches on the monitor and the computer.
The Computer Locks Up If the computer does not respond to your keyboard entries, try the following: 1. Wait a few seconds. Some operations take longer than others to perform. For example, a spreadsheet program takes longer to recalculate an entire spreadsheet than to record one figure. Also, programs involving many calculations can take several minutes, or even hours, to complete. Be aware of the task the computer is performing and judge the time accordingly. 2.
If you have trouble copying the entire diskette, some of the sectors may be bad. Try using the COPY command to copy one file at a time. Then repeat the operation to see if it works on the copy. If it does, the original diskette is damaged. 2. Is the diskette write-protected? If the write-protect switch is set, first make sure the diskette does not contain files you do not want to change or lose. Then try moving the switch to remove the write protection.
Appendix A DIP Switches and Slide Switches This appendix describes the DIP switches and slide switches you set to define your system’s configuration. The computer uses this information each time you turn it on. If you are using the standard LT-286e settings, that is, you are using the LCD screen in EGA mode, a parallel printer, and operating at 12 MHz, you do not need to change the DIP switches or slide switches.
Before accessing the DIP switches, make sure the power switch is off and all cables, including the AC adapter, are disconnected. Accessing the DIP Switches To locate the DIP switches, follow these steps: 1. Remove the expansion slot cover on the left side of the computer. Press down on the release tab and lift off the expansion slot cover. -- 2. Pull out the carrying handle. 3. Turn the computer upside down with the handle away from you.
4. Remove the expansion card cover as shown below. Lift up on the two tabs while you press on the grated squares to release the cover. Slide the cover away from you (toward the handle). The DIP switches are located on the right side of the computer.
Because the computer is upside down, the DIP switches numbers are upside down and the ON/OFF orientation is reversed. Take care when changing a DIP switch setting that you are changing the correct switch. The following tables list the system functions these switches control.
Switch Setting Function 9 ON* OFF Selects default EGA configuration Selects EGA configuration; see the CRT/LCD switch settings 10 ON Selects EGA configuration; see the CRT/LCD switch settings Selects default EGA configuration OFF *Default setting DIP switch settings (SW2) Switch Setting Function 1 ON* Not used; must be ON 2 ON* Selects internal diskette drive as drive A; external diskette drive is drive B Selects external, 5 ‘la-inch diskette drive as drive A; internal diskette drive is drive B
DIP switch settings for video controller (SW1) CRT/LCD Configuration Switch settings 8 7 9 10 Selects MDA (monochrome display adapter) to use monochrome display (CRT only) OFF ON OFF OFF Selects CGA (color graphics adapter) to use color or enhanced color display; 40 characters x 25 lines ON OFF OFF ON Selects CGA to use color or enhanced color display; 80 characters x 25 lines ON OFF OFF OFF Selects EGA (enhanced graphics adapter) to use enhanced color display in normal mode OFF ON ON
Switch 3--This switch is reserved and must always be set to ON. Switch 4-This switch is reserved and must always be set to ON. Switch 5-This switch is reserved and must always be set to ON. Switch 6-This switch selects the LCD mode of your screen. Set this switch to ON for the expanded LCD mode; in this mode, the LT-286e displays larger characters to fill the screen.
Switch 4-This switch defines the primary display. Set this switch to ON if the primary display is color. Set this switch to OFF if the primary display is monochrome. Switch 5--This switch is reserved and must always be ON. Switch 6-This switch tells the computer whether the serial port on the side of the computer is configured as a primary port or a secondary port. Set this switch to ON if you want the serial port to be recognized as the primary serial port ($3F8-$3FF).
Replacing the Expansion Card Cover After you verify or change your DIP switch settings, you need to replace the expansion card cover. Follow these steps: 1. Set the cover on the computer and slide it back into position as shown below. Press firmly until the cover snaps into position. 2. Turn the computer right side up with the handle facing you. 3. Replace the expansion slot cover on the left side of the computer. The cover has two tabs that fit into slots on the computer’s cover.
4. Lift the cover up into place and slide the release tab up to secure the cover. 5. Slide the handle back into place.
Setting the Slide Switches The slide switches let you do the following for your LT-286e: Cl Select a CPU clock speed of 12 MHz or 8 MHz tl Select an external CRT tl Select an external diskette drive. The slide switches are located on the bottom of the computer. Follow these steps: 1. Turn the computer off. 2. Disconnect all cables from the computer, including the AC adapter. 3. Turn the computer upside down with the back panel closest to you. Set the slide switches only when the computer is turned off.
Clock speed-Slide the CLOCK switch to the left to select a CPU clock speed of 8 MHz. Leave the switch in the right position to select a CPU clock speed of 12 MHz. Display switch-Slide the CRT/LCD switch to the left if you plan to connect an external CRT to the computer. Leave the switch in the right position if you plan to use the LCD. External diskette drive-Slide the FDD EXT/INT switch to the left if you plan to connect an external, 5 1/4-inch diskette drive to the computer.
Appendix B Installing Options This appendix describes how you install optional devices on your LT-286e. You can install an external monitor, an external diskette drive, an internal modem, an internal 1MB memory card, and an external keyboard. You can also install a %-size, IBM AT-compatible expansion card and a math coprocessor. Connecting an External Color Monitor If you plan to use an external monitor with your Equity LT-286e, follow the instructions below to connect it to the computer: 1.
7. Connect the appropriate end of the monitor cable to the port marked RGB VIDEO on the right side of the computer, as shown below. RGB VIDEO port 8. If the connector has retaining screws, tighten them with a screwdriver. 9. If necessary, plug the monitor’s power cable into the power inlet on the monitor. (Some monitors come with permanently attached power cables.) Then plug the power cable into an electrical outlet.
Connecting an External Diskette Drive You can connect the optional, 1.2MB, 5 1/4-inch diskette drive to your LT-286e. Follow these steps: 1. Make sure both the computer and external diskette drive (as well as any other peripheral devices) are turned off. 2. Set DIP switch SW2-2 to identify the drive. When SW2-2 is ON, the external drive is drive B. When SW2-2 is OFF, the external drive is drive A. See “Setting the DIP Switches” in Appendix A for details. 3.
7. Tighten the retaining screws on the connector with a screwdriver. 8. Plug the drive’s power cable into an electrical outlet. When you are ready to use the computer, turn on the external diskette drive and any other peripheral devices, then turn on the computer. Installing the Internal Modem You can install the optional, Epson internal modem in your LT-286e. Follow these steps: 1. Make sure the computer is turned off. 2.
3. Slide the modem card into this slot. Secure the connector on the modem to the socket inside the slot. 4. Snap out the plastic moldings that cover the LINE and PHONE openings on the modem cover. 5. Close the modem cover. Press up on the release tab to secure the cover. 6. Connect the modem to a phone line. Installing the RAM Card You can install the optional, Epson 1MB RAM card in your LT-286e. Follow these steps: 1. Make sure the computer is turned off. 2.
3. You slide the RAM card into this slot. Secure the connector on the RAM card to the socket inside the slot. 5. Close the RAM card cover. Press up on the release tab to secure the cover. Connecting an External Keyboard You can attach an external keyboard to your LT-286e. The socket for the external keyboard is on the front, right side of the computer. Follow these steps: 1. Make sure the computer is turned off. 2.
3. Attach the keyboard adapter to the external keyboard slot. Then attach the connector from the external keyboard to the adapter. You only need the keyboard adapter if your keyboard connector interferes with the RGB VIDEO port and you are planning on connecting an external monitor to this port. Installing an Option Card You can also install a %-size, IBM PC AT-compatible, internal expansion card in your LT-286e.
An option card must meet certain power supply requirements. The option card cannot draw more than the specified current (Amps): Supply voltage Maximum current +5 Volts f 12 Volts -5 Volts -12 Volts 0.8 Amps 0.1 Amps 0.05 Amps 0.05 Amps The option card must not interfere with options installed in the internal ports.
Follow these steps to install an option card: 1. Turn off the computer and disconnect all cables, including the AC adapter. 2. Remove the expansion slot cover on the left side of the computer. Press down on the release tab and lift off the expansion slot cover. 3. Pull out the carrying handle. 4. Turn the computer upside down with the handle away from you.
5. Remove the expansion card cover as shown below. Lift up on the two tabs while you press on the grated squares to release the cover. Slide the cover away from you (toward the handle). 6. Remove the bracket on the side of the computer.
7. Insert the card from the back of the computer. Line up the connector on the card with the socket inside the expansion slot. Insert the connector directly into the socket. Secure the card with the screw you removed from the bracket. 8. Set the cover on the computer and slide it back into position as shown below. Press firmly until the cover snaps into position.
9. Turn the computer right side up with the handle facing you. 10. Replace the expansion slot cover on the left side of the computer. The cover has two tabs that fit into slots on the computer’s cover. tabs 11. Lift the cover up into place and slide the release tab up to secure the cover.
12. Slide the handle back into place. Installing a Math Coprocessor You can also install a math coprocessor in your LT-286e. If your software supports a math coprocessor, it processes mathematical calculations much faster than without the coprocessor. You can easily install the math coprocessor in your LT-286e. However, to do so, you need to access the motherboard which contains sensitive circuitry.
3. Lift off the motherboard cover. 4. Notice the outline for the math coprocessor on the motherboard. 5. Make sure the notch on the math coprocessor lines up with the notch on the outline on the motherboard. Press the math coprocessor firmly into place. 6. Replace the motherboard cover. 7. Reinstall the hard disk. Insert the hard disk drive straight down; it will not go in correctly if you attempt to press it in at an angle.
Appendix C Specifications Main Unit CPU 8OC286 microprocessor, 8 MHz or 12 MHz clock speed; switch selectable Main memory 1MB (640KB standard and 384KB extended) Math coprocessor 80C287 coprocessor (optional), 8 MHz Interfaces -- Parallel Standard 8-bit parallel, 25-pin, D-type female connector Serial RS-232C, programmable, asynchronous, 9-pin, D-type male connector Video 9-pin, female connector supports MDA, CGA, EGA, and extended EGA External diskette drive 15-pin, D-type female connector
Modem Internal modem slot; 34-pin male connector Clock/calendar Real-time clock and calendar with battery backup Keyboard 84 sculpted keys; LCD indicator icons for Num Lock, Caps Lock, Scroll Lock Optional, external keyboard Mass Storage Hard disk Interchangeable, pop-out, 20MB or 40MB hard disk designed for low power consumption; 28ms average access time; built-in, 16-bit bus AT-compatible controller Diskette drives One internal 1.44MB 3 ‘/z-inch diskette drive Optional, external 5 ‘/.+-inch (1.
CRT mode supports ECD (enhanced color display), monochrome display, color display, and multisync-compatible CRTs External RGB monitor supported (EGAcompatible) Power Supply Externally attached, rechargeable NiCad battery pack (4000 milliampere-hours); up to 2 l/z hours 12/5-volt AC adapter (can recharge battery pack while operating computer) with automatic 100-240V sensing Power Requirements 100-240 VAC, 50/60 Hz NiCad rechargeable battery pack, 9.6 volts 4 ampere-hours Physical Dimensions Height 3.
Environmental Requirements Temperature Operating: 41° to 95° F (5° to 35°C) Non-operating: -4° to 122° (-20° to 60°C) Humidity Operating: 20% to 80% (non-condensing) Non-operating: 8% to 80% (noncondensing) When traveling by airplane, take your LT-286e into the passenger compartment as carry-on luggage to prevent it from being stored in an unpressurized storage compartment.
Glossary 80C286 A CMOS integrated circuit, or chip; the central processing unit (CPU) of your Equity LT-286e. The CMOS type chip provides low power consumption. 80C287 A special-purpose CMOS integrated circuit used to assist the 80C286 and speed up certain kinds of mathematical calculation. The computer’s motherboard has a socket to accommodate an optional 80C287 math coprocessor. AC adapter The device that converts AC voltage from a wall socket into the proper DC voltage to power your Equity LT-286e.
Asynchronous A method of data transmission in which one device sends data one bit at a time to another device. This method allows for delays of any length between characters. AUTOEXEC.BAT file A special kind of batch file MS-DOS executes automatically each time you turn on or reset the computer. Backlighting The internal fluorescent illumination of the computer’s LCD screen. LCD screens that are not backlit are not legible without an external source of light.
Baud rate A measure of data transmission speed. Usually equivalent to bits per second. Bit A binary digit (0 or 1). The smallest unit of information a computer can store. Eight bits make one byte. Boot To load a program or an operating system into the computer’s memory. Byte A sequence or group of eight bits. In the ASCII encoding system, a byte represents one character of data. CGA Color Graphics Adapter. A type of color monitor that can display graphics.
CMOS Complementary Metal-Oxide Semiconductor. A method of making low power, integrated circuits (chips). CMOS RAM A special type of low-power memory in your Equity LT-286e that records information about your system’s configuration. Unlike ordinary RAM, CMOS RAM is backed up by a small battery and is not erased when you turn off the computer. Code A system of symbols for representing data or instructions. Also, any software program or part of a program.
Command prompt The characters MS-DOS displays to indicate it is loaded and ready to receive instructions. The MS-DOS command prompt ordinarily displays the current operating drive (A> or C>, for example). You can add other information to the command prompt using the PROMPT command. Configuration The particular arrangement of the hardware components of your computer. Your configuration, for example, might include a printer and an internal modem, as well as your hard disk and diskette drive.
CRT Cathode Ray Tube. A type of video display. A color monitor or a TV screen is an example of a CRT. CRT connector The socket on the side of your Equity LT-286e where you plug in the cable of a color monitor. CRT/LCD switch A slide switch located on the bottom of the computer that identifies the type of display you are using. You can use either the built-in LCD or an external CRT display. Current directory The directory in which you are working.
Data The information a computer stores or processes. Data diskette A formatted diskette you use to store data files. Data file This term usually refers to files you create using an application program (for example, a memo created by a word processor), as opposed to files containing program code. Data length The number of bits per character in serial transmissions. Default A value or setting that takes effect when you turn on or reset the computer.
Device A piece of equipment that is part of a computer system and performs a specific task. Examples include your hard disk, diskette drive, monitor, and printer. DIP switch A small, two-position switch you use to supply configuration information to the computer (or to a device). DIP stands for Dual Inline Package. The LT-286e includes two sets of DIP switches, with 10 switches in each set. Directory A list of files on a hard disk or diskette.
DOS Short for MS-DOS. The Disk Operating System that controls the computer’s input and output functions. See Operating system. Double-density A type of diskette. Double-density, 3 ‘/z-inch diskettes have a capacity of 720KB. Drive identifier The letter name of a diskette drive or hard disk, followed by a colon (for example, A: or C:). ECD Enhanced Color Display. EGA Enhanced Graphics Adapter. A type of video monitor that can display graphics. Executable file A file containing program instructions.
Expansion slot A particular kind of connector that can accommodate an option card. You can use the expansion slot in your Equity LT-286e, for example, to connect a 2/4ze, IBM AT-compatible option card, such as a LAN card or FAX board. Extension A suffix of up to three characters you can add to a filename. External command A command MS-DOS stores in a program file. The FORMAT command, for example, is stored in the file FORMAT.COM.
Floppy disk See Diskette. Format To prepare a new disk (or erase an old one) so that it can store information. Formatting a disk divides it into tracks and sectors and creates addressable locations on it. Graphics Lines, angles, curves, and other non-alphanumeric data. Gray scale mode The mapping of colors to shades of gray on the LCD screen. GW-BASIC Microsoft’s extended version of the BASIC programming language. Hard disk A sealed mass storage device you use to store data permanently.
Hidden file A file whose name is not listed by the DIR command. MS-DOS stores two hidden files in the root directory of your hard disk. Some application programs also create hidden files. High-density A type of diskette. High-density, 3 l/z-inch diskettes have a capacity of 1.44MB. Input/output (I/O) port See Port. Interface A hardware or software connection used to transmit data between equipment or programs.
Main unit The part of the computer that houses the central processing unit, random access memory, disk drives, and other supporting circuitry. MDA Monochrome Display Adapter. Megabyte (MB) A unit used to measure storage space in a computer’s memory or on a disk. One megabyte equals 1,048,576 bytes. Megahertz (MHz) A unit used to measure the oscillation frequency of a computer’s internal timing clock. One megahertz is one million cycles per second. The Equity LT-286e operates at 8 or 12 MHz.
Modem A device that allows a computer to send or receive data over a telephone line. Monitor The screen of a CRT. Motherboard The main circuit board of your computer. Also called the system board. MS-DOS An operating system from Microsoft that comes with your computer. See Operating system. NiCad The type of battery used by your Equity LT-286e. NiCad stands for nickel-cadmium. Numeric keypad The number keys grouped on the upper, right side of the keyboard.
Operating system A collection of programs that allows a computer to control all of its operations. The operating system determines how programs run on the computer and supervises all input and output. Your computer comes with MS-DOS, an operating system by Microsoft. Option card A circuit board you install in a slot in your main unit. Option cards provide additional capabilities, such as a mouse, fax, or network. The expansion slot on the LT-286e is accessed from the bottom of the computer.
Pathname The list of directories the operating system must search through to locate a file. For example, the pathname for a file named CONTRACT.TXT that is located in the BUSINESS subdirectory is \ BUSINESS \CONTRACT.TXT. Peripheral An external device, such as a printer or modem, connected to a computer. Port An input/output connection on a computer to which you can attach a peripheral. Power-on diagnostics A set of self-testing routines the computer performs automatically every time you turn it on.
Read To copy data from one area to another. For example, when you open a text file stored on disk, the computer reads the data from the disk and displays it on the screen. Read/write head The physical device inside a disk drive that reads and records data on the magnetic surface of a disk. Real-time clock A battery-powered clock in the computer that keeps track of the current time and date even when the computer’s power is turned off.
RS-232C A standard serial interface. You can easily connect an RS-232C-compatible device to your Equity LT-286e. Sector A contiguous section of a disk track that provides a location at which the computer can access data. Self test A diagnostic procedure the computer performs automatically when you turn it on. Serial A type of interface in which data is transmitted one bit at a time (as distinguished from parallel, a type of interface in which data bits are transmitted in groups).
Status indicator bar A built-in LCD indicator panel that shows how you are using the computer. Stop bit A signal sent in serial communications to mark the end of a character. Subdirectory A disk directory that branches down from another subdirectory or from the root directory. Switch An option you can add to an MS-DOS command that affects the way the command works. See Parameter. System board See motherboard. System diskette A diskette from which you can boot the operating system.
TPI Tracks Per Inch. A measure of the density with which data can be stored on a diskette. Track A circular region on a diskette, which is divided into sectors. Each side of a 1.44MB or 720KB diskette has 80 concentric tracks. Each side of a 360KB 5 ‘/.+-inch diskette has 40. On a hard disk, tracks are called cylinders. Utility program A type of application program designed to perform housekeeping chores, such as copying files, creating directories, and so on.
Index A - AC adapter, 3, 1-3, 1-14, 2-24-25, 4-2 connecting, 1-10 -12 disconnecting, 1-12 using, 2-1 -2 AC wall outlet, 1-13 APPEND command, 3-11 Application programs, 2, 4, 2-11 2-15, 3-2, 3-5, 3-31 starting, 3-31 AUTOEXEC.
CONFIG.SYS file, 1-22 Contrast, 4-3 adjusting, 1-16 lever, 1-16 Control key, Ctrl Alt Del, 2-27 Ctrl Break, 2-27 Ctrl C, 2-27 COPY command, 3-13, 3-17, 3-20, 3-30, 4-5 using, 3-20-22 Copying, data, 3-17-23.
E F EGA, configuration, A-4 -5, A-7 video mode, 2, 1-1, A-l, A-6 Electrical outlet, 2-1 Enhanced color display, A-4 Enter DOS command, MENU, 3-28 Environmental requirements, C-4 Execution speed, 2, 2-11, 4-4 selecting, 2-11 Expanded LCD mode, A-4, A-7 Expansion, card cover, A-2 replacing, A-9 -10 cards, C-4 slot, 1 cover, A-2 Extended EGA video modes, 2 External, battery pack, 2-1.
I M Install diskette, inserting, 1-21 -22 Installation program, 1-22 Internal commands, 3-4 diskette drive, 1-1, A-5, A-7. See also Diskette drive keyboard, 2-8, A-5. See also Keyboard memory. See RAM modem, 2, C-2. See also Modem installing, B-4 -5 printer port, A-5. See also Parallel interface self test, 1-15-16 serial port, A-5 See also Serial interface Magnetic fields, 2-10, 2-23 Math coprocessor, 2, 1-17 MDA video mode, 2 Memory card, 2.
O On-line information, 3-25 Operating system, 3, 1-22, 3-1 commands, 3-24 See also MS-DOS Option, card, installing, B-7 -13 slot, C-1 Optional devices, B-1 video card, B-8 Options, C-4 installing, B-1 -14 P Parallel, interface, 1-2, l-l, 1-6-8, A-1 C-1 port, A-9 printer, A-1 Parameters, 3-4 Parent directory, 3-12 PATH command, 3-11, 3-29 Pathnames, 3-4, 3-8, 3-11, 3-29 using, 3-10 -11 Peripheral devices, 2, 1-9, 2-27 Physical dimensions, C-3 Power, cord, 1-3 connecting, 1-13 off, 1-14 requirements, C-3 supp
Shell program, 3, 2-26, 3-9 using, 3-24 Shock indicator, 1-4 Slide switches, 2, 1-1, 2-3, 2-7, A-1 setting, 4-1, A-11 -12 SMARTDRV.
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brightness lever contrast lever internal diskette drive / handle Port diskette drive port hard disk drive status indicator bar expansion slot cover handle
