Epson Apex Product Support Bulletin

Product Support Bulletin

Subject: Equity/Apex Compatibility with the SOTA 386si

Date:

Page:

3/02/90

1 of 3

PSB No: S-0111

Originator:

MS ;. CL5

The purpose of this bulletin is to provide the 80386 Accelerator board test results, conducted by the Computer Product Support Center, involving the

SOTA 386si from SOTA Technology, inc.

The Equity models tested were the Equity I, Equity II Equity I + and Equity le.

The Apex models tested were the Apex, Apex Plus and Apex 100. All were tested with Norton Utilities and MS - DOS.

The table below shows compatibility and the Norton SI rating of the various systems.

Model

Equity I

Norton SI

12.0

Equity I+

Equity le

12.0/16.9

NA

Compatibility

Functioned normally with Norton Utilities and

MS- DOS 2.11

Functioned normally with MS - DOS 3.3 and

Norton Utilities at both CPU speeds.

Unable to boot at 10MHz. Performance erratic at 4.77MHz

Equity II 14.3

Apex

Apex Plus

Apex 100

15.9

11.5

12.0/16.9


Norton Utilities. (Tested only at 7.16MHz.)

Unable to boot at 4.77MHz. Functioned normally at 8MHz with MS - DOS 3.2 and

Norton Utilities.

Unable to boot at 9.54MHz. Functioned normally at 4.77MHz with MS - DOS 3.2 and

Norton Utilities.


Norton Utilities.

PSB No: S-0111

Page: 2 of 3

Installation of the board in most of the units was quick and simple to do when following the installation instructions accompanying the boards. Installation of the SOTA 386si in the Equity I and the Equity II is rather difficult. Due to the amount of disassembly required, we strongly recommend that only Authorized

Service Centers install the board in the Equity I and Equity II.

Installation Instructions

Equity I

1. Remove the following from the main unit: a) upper case b) rear panel c) front panel d) FDD/power supply block.

2. Follow instructions for a standard installation for the SOTA 386si in an

8088 - based system.

Take care to fold the SOTA connector cable so as not to prevent reassembly.

The cable is sturdy and will tolerate being folded.

3. Reassemble the main unit and go through the testing and initialization procedure outlined in the SOTA manual.

Equity II

1. Remove the following from the main unit: a) upper case b) rear panel c) front panel d) FDD/power supply block.

2. Follow instructions for a standard installation for the SOTA 386si in an

8086 - based system.

Take care to fold the SOTA connector cable so as not to prevent reassembly. This will necessitate routing the cable so that it does not conflict with the power connection to the main system board.

The cable is sturdy and will tolerate being folded.

3. Reassemble the main unit and go through the testing and initialization procedure outlined in the SOTA manual.

PSB No: S-0111

Page: 3 of 3

Our Computer Product Support Center receives numerous calls requesting information and recommendations on 80386 Accelerator boards for use with the

Equity and Apex (8088- and 8086 - based) personal computers.

We have found that the SOTA 386si may meet your requirements and are competitively priced!

Although these boards were tested by qualified product support specialists,

Epson America makes no representations that these third party products are compatible with all hardware configurations or software applications.

We recommend that you certify these products with your specific hardware and software requirements and consult with the third party vendor to ensure reliable operation.

SOTA Technology can be reached at:

SOTA Technology, Inc.

657 N. Pastoria Ave.

Sunnyvale, CA 94086

Phone: (408) 245 - 3366


Subject: Equity and Apex Series Compatibility with the System OmniBridge

Controller and BridgeFiler External Floppy Drives

Date:

Page:

04/11/90

1 of 3

PSB No: S-0088B

Originator: KAS 60

The purpose of this bulletin is to provide the results of compatibility testing conducted by the Computer Product Support Center with the Sysgen

OmniBridge controller and Bridge - Filer external floppy disk drives.

Equity I

Equity II

Equity III

Equity I +

Equity le

Comments

The Equity I was found compatible with the OmniBridge controller. It was able to support one or two external disk drives (daisychained) together. The external drives could be used as high density (1.2M and 1.44M) or normal (360K and 720K) disk drives.

The Equity II was found to be totally incompatible with the OmniBridge controller.

The Equity III was found compatible with the OmniBridge controller. It was able to support one or two external disk drives (daisychained) together. The external drives could be used as high density (1.2M and 1.44M) or normal (360K and 720K) disk drives.

The Equity I + was found compatible with the

OmniBridge controller.

It was able to support one or two external disk drives (daisychained) together. The external drives could be used as high density (1.2M and

1.44M) or normal (360K and 720K) disk drives.

The Equity le was found compatible with the OmniBridge controller. It was able to support only one external floppy drive, unlike the other models tested. The drive could be used as a high density (1.2Mb and 1.44Mb) or normal (360K and 720K) disk drive.

Equity II +

Equity lIe

Equity Ill +

Equity 386SX

Equity 386/20

APEX

APEX +

PSB No: S-0088B

Page: 2 of 3

The Equity II + was found compatible with the




The Equity Ile was found compatible with the




The Equity III + was found compatible with the



144M) or normal (360K and 720K) disk drives.

The Equity 386SX was found compatible with the



144M) or normal (360K and 720K) disk drives.

The Equity 386/20 was found compatible with the




The Epson APEX was found compatible with the




The Epson APEX was found compatible with the




APEX 100

APEX 200

PSB No: S-008B

Page: 3 of 3

The Epson APEX 100 was found compatible with the




The Epson APEX 200 was found compatible with the




NOTE: The recommended switch settings for the OmniBridge controller are as follows:

1-1 DOWN

1-2 DOWN

1-3 DOWN

1-4 DOWN

2-1 DOWN

2-2 DOWN

2 - 3 U P

2 - 4 U P

These settings select NO ADDRESS for the OmniBridge BIOS and allow it to coexist with the internal FDC of the computer in which it is being installed.

This way you do not need to disable the internal

FDC or connect any cables from the OmniBridge to internal floppy drives. This was found to be a universal setting for all of the computers listed above as compatible with the OmniBridge controller.


Subject: Tape Backup System Test Results

Date: 6/13/89

Page: 1 of 2

PSB No: S-0087

Originator: MWT w

The Epson America Product Support Center has recently tested four tape backup systems:

Archive VP - 150i

Mountain Series 4000 FileSafe

Tallgrass TG - 4060 +

Tecmar QT - 60e

Internal, 150MB

External, 40MB

External, 60MB

External, 60MB

The tape drives were tested on a variety of systems (please see the notes below). In all cases, the drive manufacturer’s documentation was used as a guide to installation and operation. Note that for 8086/88 computers, the

XT- type settings were used. For the 80286/386 computers, the AT- type settings were used. This is important for correctly configuring the host adapters or controller cards for IRQ, DMA and I/O port address.

Archive VP - 150i

The VP - 150i was tested on the Equity II +, Ill + and 386/20. Due to the capacity and nature of the drive, it is not particularly suited for use in any of the 8086/88 computers. This was the only drive supplied with Unix/Xenix device drivers. It was tested under MS -

DOS 3.3 and SC0 Xenix 286 System V version 2.2.1 with no problems encountered. The VP - 150i is also Novell tested and certified under the NetWare operating system.

Mountain Series 4000 FileSafe

The Series 4000 FileSafe was tested on the Equity II+, III + and

386/20. Due to the use of a 16 - bit controller, it was not tested in any of the 8086/88 computers. It was tested under MS - DOS

3.3 with no problems encountered. A chapter is included in the tape software documentation on backup and restore operations on a local area network, including Novell.

PSB No: S-0087

Page: 2 of 2

Tallgrass TG - 4060 +

The TG- 4060+ was tested on the Apex, Apex +, Equity I +,

II +, Ill + and 386/20. It was tested under MS- DOS 3.2 and 3.3

with no problems encountered. There is no documentation on LAN operations.

Tecmar QT - 60e

The QT- 60e was tested on the Equity I +, II + , III + and 386/20.

Testing was conducted under MS - DOS 3.3 with no problems encountered. The Tecmar documentation includes extensive information on installation and operation in a LAN environment.

General Notes

Of the four units tested, the Archive and Tecmar drives offered the easiest installation. They also provided the best performance, with the Tallgrass drive giving the slowest disk-to-tape and tape to- disk operations. All four drives were supplied with menudriven tape utility software for the MS - DOS environment.

Command-line and timed, scheduled operations are also available. As previously mentioned, the Archive drive also included device drivers for use in a Unix/Xenix environment, offering the greatest level of flexibility.

Please contact the manufacturers for additional information.

Archive Corporation

Data Storage Division

1650 Sunflower Ave.

Costa Mesa, Ca. 92626

(800) 237-4929

Tallgrass Technologies Corp.

11100 West 82nd St.

Overland Park, K S . 66214

(913) 492-6002

Mountain Computer, Inc.

360 El Pueblo Rd.

Scotts Valley, Ca. 95066

(408) 438-6650

Tecmar, Inc.

6225 Cochran Rd.

Solon, Oh. 44139

(216) 349-1009


Subject: Apex / Apex Plus / Equity Series Keyboards

Date: 4/19/89

Page: 1 of 1

PSB No: S-0080

Originator: REMAL

The purpose of this bulletin is to provide information on the various keyboards used with the Apex, Apex Plus and Equity series computers and the part numbers of the keyboard subassemblies used with these keyboards.

The Apex and Apex Plus computer keyboards are to be replaced as whole units.

The Equity series keyboards are repaired to the subassembly level.

The

Equity III keyboard PCB assembly is the only one that comes with the key top set attached.

Since some of the keyboards have the same model numbers, the difference can be determined by the FCC ID number in those cases.

The chart below provides a quick reference to determine the part number of the main keyboard PCB assembly, key top set, control logic subassembly, and keyboard cable.

Apex / Apex Plus

Model

Keyboard

Unit

Apex A265091A

Apex Plus 93553905410

Model Code

AA

:zE?

Q203A A&AA

Q203A A103A-AA

Model

Equity I/II

Equity Ill

Equity I, II, Ill

Keyboard

PCB Assy

Y145501001

KAFLZ3AEPS1

Key Top set

Y145501021 attached

Equity I +, II +, Ill+, 386/20

FCC ID

BKM9A8Q203A

BMK9A8Q303A

C9S4D7Q203A

C9S4DB4701

Keyboard

PCB Assy

Y127501001

Y127501001

Y163502001

Y163504007

Control

Board attached attached none

Y171501017

Key Top set

Y127501022

Y127501022

Y127501022

Y127501022

Keyboard

Cable

Y144305000

KACCL600UCA

Keyboard

Cable

Y127501031

Y127501031

Y163502020

Y163504006

Model Code

E1160A -

FCC ID

C9S4D84701- 201

Equity le

Keyboard

PCB Assy

Y163504007

Control

Board

Y171501017

Key Top set

Y171501007

Keyboard

Cable

Y171501006

EPSON

EPSON AMERICA, INC.

SERVICE P

RODUCT

S

UPPORT

B

ULLETIN

PSB NO.: S-0065 DATE: 1/5/89 ORIGINATOR: REM/ AGE: 1 of 1

SUBJECT: DISABLING THE FLOPPY DISK CONTROLLER IN EPSON COMPUTERS

This bulletin covers the ability or inability to disable the floppy disk controller in the Epson computers.

COMPUTER

Equity I

FDC CAN

BE

D I S A B L E D

No

HOW

Equity II

Equity III

Equity I+

No

Yes

Yes

Equity II+

1OMHz

12MHz

Equity III+

Apex

No

Yes

Yes

CPU Board - Switch 2-3 off

CPU Brd - Jumper 1 in Position B

Multi-function Board

- Jumper 2 in Position B

Multi-function Board



Motherboard - Remove Jumper El

Apex Plus

Yes

No

EPSON AMERICA SERVICE, 23610 TEL0 AVENUE, TORRANCE, CALIF. 90505


Subject: Using Expanded Memory with Equity and Apex Computers

Date:

Page:

3/2/90

1 of 6

PSB No: S-0047C

Originator: KAS ‘/“p&

Q1.

A.

Q2.

A.

What is Expanded Memory?

Conventional memory, managed by MS - DOS, is limited to 640K. In response to the need for greater amounts of accessible memory, the

LIM EMS (Lotus/Intel/Microsoft Expanded Memory Specification) was introduced in 1984. EMS, version 3.2, provides usable memory beyond the 640K limit through “bank switching”. The expanded memory is divided into 16K portions called “pages”. The computer accesses these pages through a “page frame” or “window” which is

64K of memory located between 768K and 896K in 80286 - based systems and between 800K and 960K in 8086 - or 8088 - based systems.

16K pages of memory are allocated for an application’s use and the EMM (Expanded Memory Manager) handles the job of mapping the pages in and out of the page frame as they are needed. However, in order to make use of expanded memory, the software must be written to take advantage of the EMS. Software such as Lotus 1 - 2 - 3, Microsoft Windows and Borland’s SideKick

Plus make use of expanded memory. EMS is limited to 8Mb of expanded memory.

What is EEMS?

A superset of EMS, AQA EEMS (AST/Quadram/Ashton - Tate

Enhanced Expanded Memory Specification) provides greater flexibility in the mapping of expanded memory. However, it also uses the technique of “bank switching” and has its own memory manager which accommodates such specially written software as Quarterdeck’s

DESQview. EEMS is also limited to 8Mb of expanded memory.

Q3.

A.

Q4.

A.

Q5.

A.

PSB No: S-0047C

Page: 2 of 6

What about the 155Mb RAM listed as the maximum for the Equity

III +?

This larger amount of RAM is the maximum usable memory range for an 80286 microprocessor and generally refers to extended memory. Extended memory starts at the 1Mb boundary and extends out to 16Mb. As it requires a 24 - bit address to access memory in this range, extended memory is handled by the protected mode of the 80286. Examples of currently available software that can switch into protected mode to use extended memory are Framework II,

AutoCAD, the VDisk RAM disk and Xenix OS.

How does LIM EMS 4.0, the latest version, differ from the earlier version, LIM EMS 3.2?

EMS 4.0 supports up to 32Mb of expanded memory where EMS 3.2

supported only 8Mb. EMS 4.0 has been changed to make it easier for applications to share expanded memory. In EMS 4.0, page mapping has been streamlined and new functions allow application programs to dynamically increase and decrease the amount of expanded memory allocated to them. In previous versions of EMS, the page frame was located in an unused 64K block of memory between 640K and 1Mb. EMS 4.0, subject to limitations in the system hardware, supports the page frame anywhere in the first 1Mb of memory. Before EMS 4.0, the page frame held four pages. Now you can define a page frame of up to eight pages in memory above

640K. The size of the page frame is limited only by the amount of available memory.

There has also been a change to support the smaller than standard (16K) memory pages used by some expanded memory boards.

Is EMS 4.0 compatible with my old expanded memory board?

The EMM 4.0 driver works with existing hardware. You don’t need to buy a new expanded memory board. However, until you use applications that have been written to take advantage of EMS 4.0, you probably won’t notice much improvement in performance over your older version.

Q6.

A.

Q7.

A.

Q8.

A.

Q9.

A.

PSB No: S-0047C

Page: 3 of 6

What memory expansion boards are compatible with the Equity I and

Equity II?

The following boards have been tested by Epson in the Equity I and

II:

All Card w/MMU Multifunction All Computers, Inc.

Liberty PC Quadram Corporation

Mini Magiccard (EV - 138) Everex Systems, Inc.

AST SixPak Premium

AST Rampage

AST Research

AST Research

What memory expansion boards are compatible with the Equity Ill?

The following boards have been tested by Epson in the Equity Ill:

Grande Byte

Intel Above Board AT

Liberty AT

AST Advantage

AST Rampage AT

AST Ramvantage

STB Systems

Intel Corporation

Quadram Corporation

AST Research

AST Research

AST Research

What memory expansion boards are compatible with the Equity I +?

The following boards have been tested by Epson in the Equity I +:

64/256KB Expansion Option

Above Board PC (1985)

Fastcard IV (1.6)

IBM

Intel Corporation

Thesys

What memory expansion boards are compatible with the Equity le?

The following boards have been tested by Epson in the Equity le:

64/256KB Expansion Option IBM

Quad Board II Quadram

Fastcard IV

RAMpage

Thesys

AST Research

Note: The Intel Above Boards do not currently operate reliably with the Equity le.

PSB No: S-0047C

Page: 4 of 6

Q10.

A.

What memory expansion boards are compatible with the Equity II + and Equity Ill + (10MHz models)?

The following boards have been tested by Epson in the Equity II + and Equity Ill + (10MHz models):

Advantage Premium

Rampage 286 *

Above Board 286

Above Board 286 p/s

Grande Byte

*

Rio Grande

*

Elite 16

* Will run at 8MHz, not at 10MHt.

AST Research

AST Research

Intel Corporation

Intel Corporation

STB Systems

STB Systems

Profit Systems

Q11.

A.

What memory expansion boards are compatible with the Equity II + and Equity Ill + (12MHz models)?

The following boards have been tested by Epson in the Equity II + and Equity III + (12MHz models):

Rampage 286 Plus

Elite 16

Above Board Plus

AST Research

Profit Systems

Intel Corporation

NOTE: Previously boards from Micron Technology were listed as compatible with the 12MHz models of the Equity II + and Equity Ill +. They have been removed from the list because Micron no longer produces

ISA memory boards.

Q12.

A.

How do you expand the memory of the Equity 386/20?

Memory expansion in the Equity 386/20 can be accomplished by adding SlMMs (single in - line memory modules) to the CHET - RM board. Both 256K and 1Mb SlMMs are available from Epson

America. The 256K SlMMs are sold in 1Mb kits and the 1Mb

SlMMs are sold in 2Mb kits. Compatible third party 1Mb SlMMs are available from Matsushita, Toshiba and CDC Enterprises. You can also use third party memory expansion boards such as those listed above for the Equity II +/Ill +.

Q13.

A.

Q14.

A.

Q15.

A.

Q16.

A.

PSB No: S-0047C

Page: 5 of 6

Are there any guidelines to installing the SlMMs in the Equity

386/20?

Yes, when SlMMs are installed to increase memory beyond 1Mb, they must be installed so that banks of SlMMs are installed as matched pairs.

See the matrix below:

Memory Bank 0 Bank 1 Bank 2 Bank 3

1MB

2MB

4MB

4MB

8MB

10MB

16MB

4X256KB

4X256KB 4X256KB

4X256KB 4X256KB 4X256KB 4X256KB

4X1MB

4X1 MB 4X1 MB

4X1 MB 4X1 MB 4X256KB 4X256KB

4X1 MB 4X1 MB 4X1 MB 4X1 MB

Note: Refer to PSB S - 0095 for 18MB RAM Setup information.

Is there a driver supplied with the Equity 386/20 to allow the use of the extended memory as expanded memory?

Yes, the Equity 386/20 system software includes the device driver

EEMM386EXE. This driver emulates LIM EMS 4.0 memory using the extended memory supplied by the additional SIMMs. It will support only the onboard memory above 1 MB, up to 15MB. This is the maximum memory that can be installed on the CHET- RM board. It will not support memory installed on memory expansion boards.

Are there any expanded memory boards that are compatible with the

Equity LT?

No, the option slots on the LT require a special connector. The hard drive controller and the LT cartridge modem are the only option cards currently available from Epson America.

What expanded memory boards are compatible with the Apex by

Epson?

The Above Board PC from Intel Corporation has been tested by

Epson in the Apex.

Q17.

A.

Q18.

A.

Q19.

A.

Q20.

A.

PSB No: S-0047C

Page: 6 of 6

Are there any general guidelines for determining the chip speed to install on the memory expansion boards?

Yes, if the CPU speed is 8MHz or less, use 150ns RAM chips. If the CPU speed is 10/12MHz, use 120ns RAM chips.

Is there anything that should be kept in mind during the installation procedure for the memory expansion boards?

Yes, when installing the memory boards in the Equity II + and Equity

Ill + (12MHz models), remember that the bus speed is 12MHz. For example, the Intel Above Board 288 and Above Board Plus allow you to set up the bus speed and chip speed in their installation programs.

What is meant by backfilling memory when using software such as

DESQview?

Backfilling is a function of many expanded memory boards which allows a portion of the board’s memory to be used as conventional memory. In this way, you could turn a 256K system into one with

840K memory or more.

In certain situations, you may want to disable some of the computer’s conventional memory and the use the memory on the expansion board (i.e. DESQview).

Which Epson computers have memory settings that allow backfilling memory?

The Equity I, Equity I +, Equity II + and Equity Ill + allow backfill.

The Equity I comes with 256K standard and the Apex comes with

512K, thus allowing backfill. The Equity I + has DIP switch settings allowing system memory to be disabled to 256K or 512K. The

Equity II+ and Equity Ill + have jumpers on the system memory boards to allow memory to be disabled to 256K and 512K.

EPSON

EPSON AMERICA INC.

SERVICE DEPARTMENT

PRODUCT SUPPORT BULLETIN

DATE: 1/26/88 NUMBER: S-0035

SUBJECT: USING THE PLUS DEVELOPMENT "HARDCARD" WITH THE APEX PC

The Plus Development "HardCard 20" is a single slot 20 MB fixed disk mounted on an expansion slot card, for use in IBM PC/XT and compatible computers.

The unit employs controller circuitry from

OMTI/Scientific Micro Systems, and uses 2,7 RLL encoding.

The HardCard has been found to be compatible with the Apex computer, but there has been some confusion among customers who are running through the installation procedures.

This is due to the HardCard's special installation procedure which has been designed specifically for use with PC-DOS.

Because of certain file name differences between MS-DOS and PC-DOS, the Plus install program will not run using the APEX MS-DOS.

The HardCard is shipped in a partitioned and formatted state, with a number of files included on it.

The directory of files is as follows:

INSTALL EXE

HCD BAT

HCD1

HCD2

BAT

EXE

HCD3

HCD3

DAT

DIF

HCD6 SCR

PREPARE BAT

SHELL

LIGHT

BAT

COM

SOUND COM

PATCHFMT EXE

INSTALL DAT

47479 1-01-80

30

128

54769

13440

704

4224

235

18

145

145

12670

1-01-80

1-01-80

1-01-80

1-01-80

1-01-80

1-01-80

1-01-80

1-01-80

1-01-80

1-01-80

1-01-80

425 1-01-80

12:06a

12:07a

12:07a

12:07a

12:07a

12:07a

12:07a

12:08a

12:07a

12:07a

12:07a

12:08a

12:06a

These files comprise the installation routine (INSTALL.EXE,

INSTALL.DAT, PATCHFMT.EXE, PREPARE.BAT, and SHELL.BAT), the Plus

Development fixed disk menu program (HCD*.*), and supplemental utilities (LIGHT.COM and SOUND.COM).

Please refer to the APEX MS-DOS manual for details on the specific command functions during the following installation procedure.

Page 1 of 2

HARDCARD INSTALLATION MODIFIED FOR THE EPSON APEX

1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

6.

7.

8.

9.

10.

11.

12.

13.

After installing the HardCard in one of the option slots, boot the computer using the APEX MS-DOS disk in drive A:.

Enter SYS C: to transfer MS-DOS system to the HardCard.

Copy COMMAND.COM and FORMAT.COM from the MS-DOS diskette into the root directory of the HardCard.

Remove the MS-DOS diskette and insert a blank diskette in drive A:.

Log onto C: and enter FORMAT A: to format the disk.

COPY all files from the HardCard to the formatted diskette.

Label this diskette "Plus Utilities".

Remove the Plus Utilities diskette and press the RESET button on the APEX.

The system should reboot from the HardCard.

Reinsert the Epson MS-DOS diskette, log onto drive A:, run

FDISK to partition the HardCard for MS-DOS and then run

SELECT to format the HardCard. When finished, remove the APEX diskette and reset the system.

Ensure that the APEX boots from the HardCard.

Reinsert the Plus Utilities diskette.

Copy all the files from the Plus Utilities diskette back into the root directory of the HardCard.

Remove and store the diskette in a safe place.

Copy all files from the Epson Apex diskette(s) into the root directory of the HardCard.

Log into the root directory of drive C: and enter the command

PREPARE.

This will run a batch file that will create 16 empty subdirectories on the HardCard, into which applications software will later be loaded.

Also in this directory, rename the program SHELL.BAT to

AUTOEXEC.BAT.

This will cause the system to automatically load the Plus menu "shell" on bootup.

Finally, erase PATCHFMT.EXE, PREPARE.BAT, and INSTALL.* from the root directory of C:.

The HardCard installation is now complete. Test the system by rebooting the Plus menu "shell" should run.

NOTE: The original Plus install program creates a floppy diskette containing the Plus files, as above, but also performs several other operations to make it what they refer to as the "REINSTALL" diskette.

In PC-DOS systems, this Reinstall diskette can later be used for reformatting the HardCard.

Using the modified APEX procedure, however, the "Plus Utilities" diskette that is created cannot be used as the Reinstall diskette.

If an APEX user wants to reformat the HardCard, the user should use BACKUP to backup the contents, run

BACKUP to restore the files.

SELECT to format, then use

You may want to copy the LIGHT.COM and SOUND.COM utilities back to the HardCard, as these files control visual and audible signals that are used to indicate HardCard access.

The visual indicator is a flashing " + " sign at the upper right of the display (defaults to ON), and the audible indicator is a buzzing sound (defaults to OFF).

Page 2 of 2

EPSON

EPSON AMERICA INC.

SERVICE DEPARTMENT


DATE: 12/14/87

SUBJECT:

NUMBER: S-0031

Equity Series with Microsoft Word and Serial Printers

This bulletin is to inform you of a potential problem when using

Microsoft Word, certain Equity computers and a serial printer. The situation exists on:

Equity I

Equity I+

Equity II+

Equity III+ (10 MHz)

Equity III+ (12 MHz)

Apex

BIOS rev.

2.21 or earlier

BIOS rev. 1.02

BIOS rev. 2.00

BIOS rev.

1.50 or earlier

BIOS rev. 2.00

BIOS rev. 1.00

When Word is configured to drive a serial printer via COM1 or

COM2, it will print a character every 1 to 2 seconds. A single line of text may take up to a minute to print.

Word uses BIOS interrupt 14h (serial output) function 1 (send character to port) for driving either COM port. The function number is placed in the AH register and the interrupt called. On return, AH is supposed to contain the line control status. However, AH is still set to 1, indicating that a character is ready to be received. Word then calls interrupt 14h, function 2 (receive character) and attempts to receive the character. After 1 to 2 seconds, the routine times out and transmission is resumed.

There are three methods of correcting this situation:

1)

2 )

3)

If the printer supports hardware handshaking, redirect the printer output (MODE LPT1:=COM1:) and configure

Word for LPT1.

This works reliably with Epson printers or similar devices.

Epson has developed a patch program (SERFIX.COM).

This is a TSR that insures that proper status is returned from INT 14h, function 1.

This program is available from CompuServe (Epson and Microsoft

Forums) and the Product Support Center BBS.

A revised ROM BIOS has been developed for 'the above systems. This is a limited release and will only be supplied on an as-needed basis.

Method 1 is the easiest solution.

Method 2 is effective and is recommended for individual users.

Method 3 should be reserved for large, multi-unit upgrades on an as-needed basis.

Please contact the Systems Support Group if you need additional information.

Page 1 of 1

EPSON

EPSON AMERICA, INC.

SERVICE

PSB NO.:

P RODUCT S UPPORT B ULLETIN

S-0029C DATE: 10/10/88 ORIGINATOR: REM PAGE: 1 of 6

SUBJECT: APEX PERSONAL COMPUTER - ANSWERS TO COMMON QUESTIONS

Q. Where can I obtain help regarding software or hardware questions on the Apex computer?

A. PFS First Choice applications software

Software Publishing Corp.

provides the warranty and end-user support for the First Choice software. Please refer to Appendix

" E " of the First Choice User's Guide for customer support information.

The telephone number for PFS First Choice support is (415) 962-9002.

Apex Hardware and MS-DOS/GW-BASIC software support

Epson America Inc.

provides technical support for questions

regarding the MS-DOS/GW-BASIC (software) and the Apex computer,

Apex printer and Apex monitors (hardware). Customers can obtain support by calling our Product Support Department 213 539-9955, or by writing to:

Epson America Inc.

Product Support Department

23610 Telo Ave.

Torrance, Ca. 90505

Q. Where can I obtain warranty repair service for my Epson Apex products?

A. Epson America,

If you require service you can call our toll free Consumer

Information number at

Service Center.

Inc.

has a network of Authorized Epson Customer

Care Centers located in strategic locations across the country.

1-800-922-8911 to locate the nearest Apex

Q. What kind of printer can I use with the Apex?

A. The Apex comes standard with a parallel interface which is used to connect any printer or plotter with a standard parallel interface.

A parallel printer cable (not included) is required to connect a printer to the computer.

Epson offers three outstanding printers from the ActionPrinter line of 9-pin and 24-pin dot matrix printers.

The Apex80 is an

80 column printer and the T750 is a 136 column printer.

Both have near letter quality print.

The L1000 printer is an 80 column 24-pin printer with superb letter quality print.


NUMBER: S-0029C PAGE: 2 of 6

Q. Does the Apex have a serial interface port?

A. An optional IBM PC/XT compatible serial board may be installed inside the Apex computer to connect a serial device such as a modem, serial mouse, serial printer or another computer. Many

IBM PC/XT compatible serial boards are available through computer dealers. We recommended using a multifunction board in order to optimize the use of available option card slots. Epson offers a multifunction board (Epson Part No. AP-1030A-AA) which has a serial interface port, a game-port interface and a Clock/

Calendar.

The board is available from some Apex retailers it can be purchased directly from Epson's Accessories i:rketing at their toll-free telephone # 1-800-873-7766 and orders can be placed using your credit card.

Q. Can a hard disk drive be installed?

A. Yes, you can either replace the lower floppy disk drive with a half height hard disk drive or install a hard disk card.

One nice thing about installing a hard card is that you keep both floppy drives which comes in handy for disk copying.

In either case you will lose an option slot because the hard disk drive requires a separate hard disk controller card. We recommend a hard disk which draws 14 watts or less.

Another thing which you must consider if you decide on using a hard card is the size (width) of the hard card. Most hard cards take up more than one slot, usually 1-1/2 slots, which means they will fit in one slot if the board next to them is a half length board.

The Plus Development hardcards are very thin so they will fit no matter what type of board is in the adjacent slot. A less expensive 1-1/2 slot hard card which we have tested in the

Apex is the Standard Brand Flashcard-20.

We have heard reports from a few customers who have had difficulty in getting them operating correctly.

Since we did not have a problem and we have spoken to other customers who have not had problems, we believe those who did have problems either had defective hard cards or did not have them installed correctly.

Some hard disk manufacturers recommend that the computer have at least a 110 watt power supply.

This is correct when installing them in an IBM-PC/XT and many compatibles but Epson uses many custom low power LSI chips which leaves plenty of power for added peripherals with its 80 watt power supply. To be on the safe side we recommend using a hard disk which draws less than 12 watts.

The Plus Development hard card only requires 8 watts of power.

The most commonly used hard drive is the Seagate ST-225, 20MB drive. We recommend using a Western Digital (Model WD1002A-WX1) hard disk controller card as that model has been tested with the Apex.

Customers have reported having problems with other cards such as the Western Digital XT-GEN board.


Q. What kind of floppy Disk drives does the Apex have and what kind of floppy diskettes should I use?

A. The Apex comes standard with two half-height, 5 1/4", 360KB floppy disk drives.

Make sure to use only double-sided, double-density, soft-sector, 48 TPI floppy diskettes.

The diskette boxes are usually marked DSDD or 2S-2D, Soft-Sector,

48TPI.

New blank diskettes must be formatted in the computer before being used.

Q. Can I use other types of floppy disk drives with the Apex?

A. 1.2MB, half-height floppy disk drives are not compatible with the Apex personal computer.

The Epson 3.5", half-height, 720KB floppy drive (Epson Model code A112A-AA) has been tested with the Apex computer and is compatible (available from Epson computer dealers).

Q. Can I install a Math-Coprocessor chip and what type do I need?

A: A Math-Coprocessor chip is an option which speeds up the math functions used in many spreadsheet and math-intensive software applications.

It can be bought at electronic parts retailers and computer stores (Epson America Inc. does not supply them).

An 8087-2 Math-Coprocessor chip which runs at 8MHz is recommended for use with the Apex computer.

An 8087 Math-

Coprocessor may also be used but it will only operate reliably when the slower speed (4.77MHz) is selected.

The Math-

Coprocessor chip is installed in the socket provided on the

Apex CPU board (the board which has the dip switches and parallel printer interface).

The dip switches need to be set up to select the math-coprocessor according to the User's Guide.

Q. How can I increase the Apex RAM memory to 640K Bytes?

A. The Apex comes standard with 512KB of RAM memory which is suitable for most applications.

The memory can be expanded to

640KB by adding additional RAM memory chips to the CPU memory

$;zyback) board in the empty sockets pro;d!ed.

Four 4464

RAM chips are chips' directly required.

Epson does but they are supply these available from electronic parts retailers.

They can also be ordered from mail order sources which advertise in computer magazines such as PC Magazine.

You should be certain to order the 4464 type (150ns) RAM chips as there are other types of 64K RAM chips which will not work.

Since this is not the standard configuration of the Apex as it is offered, Epson will not provide warranty support of this upgrade.

If service is required, these RAM chips should be removed before returning the Apex for repair.

NUMBER: A-0029C PAGE: 4 of 6

Q. Can I use the Apex Monochrome Monitor with other IBM-PC compatible computers?

A. The Apex 12" Monochrome monitor uses a composite video signal using an RCA type connector which is compatible with the video board supplied with the Apex computer. We have not tested it with other video boards but it should operate reliably with boards providing a composite video output.

Q. Can I use the Apex color monitor with other IBM-PC compatible computers and what are the specifications?

A. The Apex color monitor is an IBM-PC compatible, 16 color, RGB, dual function monitor which can be set up for either ;;l;;so; green screen mode with a switch on the rear panel.

640 x 200 (black and white) or 320 x 200 (4 color) graphics dot resolution.

It can display 16 colors in 80 column x 25 row text mode. The dot pitch is .52mm.

Q. What other monitors are compatible with the Apex and is it

possible to use a television set?

A. IBM-PC compatible RGB color or composite monochrome monitors work with the video board provided with the Apex computer.

Composite color monitors will only display shades of gray.

IBM compatible EGA monitors can also be used if an EGA video board is installed (available from computer dealers).

IBM compatible TTL monochrome monitors may be used if a monochrome graphics video board is installed (available from computer dealers).

The Apex video board does not support TTL monochrome monitors.

A standard television set cannot be used with the Apex, although there are some new TV sets being manufactured which can also be used as computer monitors with the proper interface card. Check with the dealer to be sure. We have not tested any.

Q. Where can I get software for the Apex computer?

A. Epson America, Inc. does not supply software other than that which is bundled with the unit as sold.

You can use virtually all IBM PC/XT compatible software available at stores which carry software.

Q. Can I use an IBM enhanced style keyboard with the Apex?

A. Yes, an IBM compatible enhanced style keyboard can be used. Dip switch 1 must be set to the off position.

We have tested the

Datadesk Turbo 101 keyboard with the Apex and it works fine.


Q. How many option cards can be installed in the Apex?

A. The Apex has three available option (expansion) slots as delivered, one of them is adapter board.

The expansion occupiedcaiyb;he includedavAy;; slots used for variety of IBM-PC/XT compatible (8-bit) option cards. In order to optimize the use of these option slots, it is recommended that a multifunction type option board be used, as well as, single slot hardcards and external modems which connect to a serial interface port.

Q. What kind of option cards are available for the Apex computer and where can I buy them?

A. In general, any IBM PC/XT compatible option board should work in the Apex computer.

We suggest visiting a computer retail store to see a wide range of products too extensive to list.

The products must state specifically that they are IBM PC/XT compatible.

Since there are many different manufacturers it is impossible for us to test all option boards available to make sure they are all compatible.

We recommend that people make sure to purchase boards from a dealer who will exchange the board if for some reason it is not compatible. In order to make the best use of the option slots available it is recommended to use a multifunction type card with clock/calendar, serial port and game port. Epson offers a multi-function board for the Apex computer (Model code AP1030) which can be ordered from Epson

Accessories Marketing. They can be contacted at their toll-free telephone # 1-800-873-7766 and orders can be placed using your credit card.

Q. What kind of mouse works with the Apex?

A. There are many IBM-PC compatible mice which will work with the

Apex.

Some come with their own interface boards which take up an option slot.

A serial mouse can be used with the Epson

Multifunction board.

See your local computer dealer for more information.

Q. What kind of joystick can I use with the Apex and where do you connect it?

A. There are many IBM compatible joysticks available and some have different types of connectors.

The joystick connector must match the connector type on the board it is being used with. An

IBM compatible joystick with a 15 pin IBM compatible connector must be used with the Epson Multifunction board. We recommend using the Kraft Premium joystick as we have tested it with the

Apex using the EPSON Multifunction board.


Q. What type of modem can be used with the Apex?

A. IBM PC/XT compatible internal modems can be used as well as external modems which connect to a serial interface port.

A serial interface board or multifunction option board must be installed to use an external modem.

Epson manufactures both types of modems which are available from Epson computer dealers.

The Epson Link 1200 external 1200 baud modem (Epson P/N C202A-A) and the Epson Link 1200-PC internal modem (Epson P/N C203A-A).

Q. My computer would not work when I set the dip switches as described in the User's Guide but it worked when I set them in the opposite setting.

Why?

A. An error was made in the original Apex User's Guide, Appendix A, page A-2, for setting the dip switches. The book indicates that the switches are OFF when set to the right.

The switches are actually ON when set to the right.

The Table (A-l) on page A-3 is correct.

An errata sheet has been placed in the manuals since this error was discovered.

Q: I can't find some of the programs referred to in the MS-DOS

3.2 manual on the MS-DOS diskette. Where are they?

A. The GW-BASIC diskette contains many of the utility programs which are referred to in the MS-DOS manual.

Q. Will my Apex work in foreign countries?

A. The Apex computer can be used in both the United States and internationally simply by selecting the appropriate input voltage on the voltage selection switch located on the rear of the unit.

The Apex will operate on either 115VAC or 230VAC at

50/60 Hz power.

One thing to be aware of, if taking an Apex overseas, is that the voltage on the power outlet on the rear of the computer is the same as the input voltage of the computer.

If you have a monitor or other device plugged into this outlet make sure it is capable of operating on the same voltage and frequency that the computer is connected to.

Most monitors and printers are not set up to operate on dual voltages and will be damaged if plugged into the wrong AC voltage. This applies to the Apex monitors and printers as well.

EPSON

EPSON AMERICA, INC.

SERVICE

B NO.: S-0028A

P

RODUCT

S

UPPORT

B

ULLETIN

DATE: 6/29/88 PAGE: 1 of 1

UBJECT: EPSON 3.5" 720KB FLOPPY DISK DRIVE COMPATIBILITY

The purpose of this bulletin is to provide information regarding the compatibility of the Epson 3.5", 720KB floppy disk drive (Product Code and Equity series computers.

A112A-AA) with the Apex

The 3.5" floppy disk drive must be used with MS-DOS 3.2

or higher.

Please refer to the following table for compatibility information.

Apex

Equity I

No special setup required

Not supported

Equity

Equity

II

III

1 Must include DRIVPARM = /D:1 /F:2 in CONFIG.SYSI

Not supported*

Equity I+ No special setup required

Equity II+ No special setup required

1 Equity III+ 1 No special setup required

I

I

The Epson 3.5" floppy disk drive is not compatible with the

Equity I or the Equity III.

* Manzana Microsystems Inc. offers a 3.5", 720KB floppy disk drive which is compatible with the Equity when used with their 3FIVE device driver.

III computer

Refer to Product Support Bulletin # S-0027A for detailed information on using the DRIVPARM command to configure

Equity II systems for using the 3.5" floppy disk drive.



Subject: Apex Computer - 640KB Memory Upgrade Procedure

Date: 6/7/89 PSB No: S-0022A

Page: 1 of 2 Originator: REM 2%

The Apex by Epson comes standard with 512KB of RAM memory. This can be expanded to 640KB by installing additional RAM chips on the Apex memory

(piggyback) board in the I.C. sockets provided. The memory board is attached to the CPU board. This upgrade requires 4 each 4464, 21464 or 41464 (4 x 64)

DRAM S (150ns) which are available from Epson’s Accessories Marketing department

(Tel. # 800 - 873 - 7766) and should also be available at local electronic component suppliers.

INSTALLATION INSTRUCTIONS

1. Refer to section 5 of the Apex User’s Guide (Installing Option Cards) for information on removing and replacing the Apex top cover. Ensure that the AC power is disconnected from the unit.

2. After the top cover is removed, unscrew the CPU board retaining screw and disconnect the 5 connectors which are attached to the top of the CPU board.

Note the positions of the connectors for later reconnection. Refer to figure

1 for details of board and connector locations.

Figure 1 i!l

POWER

SUPPLY

PSB No: S-0022A

Page: 2 of 2

3. Carefully pull up and remove the CPU board and place the board on a static free material with the component side up.

4. Insert the four RAM chips in the empty I.C. sockets marked U9, U10, U11, and

U12 on the memory board.

Be sure to insert the RAM chips in the same direction as the existing RAM chips with pin 1 toward the rear of the board.

Check to be certain that all chips are properly seated and that none of the pins are bent.

Refer to Figure 2 for RAM chip locations and installation direction.

I

I

Figure 2

5. Reinstall the CPU board into the Apex motherboard (slot closest to the power supply). Reconnect the 5 connectors and board retaining screw then install the top cover.

6. Set the dip switches on the CPU board (See Section A- 3 of the User’s Guide) for 640KB. Switch 3 and 4 should be set in the off position. Also check the other dip switch settings to make sure they have not been accidently changed during the upgrade.

7. Power on the Apex system and check operation. The display should indicate

“640KB OK’ upon initial self test.

Upgraded Apex CPU boards or Memory boards requiring service should be returned with the factory memory configuration (512KB).

The Epson Limited Warranty covers the Apex computer product as purchased. It does not cover failures caused by improper installation of circuit boards, modifications, or failures due to components which are not factory installed.

E P S O N

EPSON AMERICA INC.

DEPARTMENT

SERVICE


DATE: 12/2/87 NUMBER: S-0019B

SUBJECT: EQUITY SERIES/APEX MATH CO-PROCESSOR SELECTION GUIDE

The purpose of this bulletin is to assist in selecting the appropriate numeric co-processor for use in the Epson Equity series computers and the Epson Apex computer.

Use the following table to determine which type of Numeric

Co-Processor is recommended for the corresponding computer.

EPSON

COMPUTER

CPU

SPEED

NUMERIC

CO-PROCESSOR

NXP

SPEED

80287-6 6 MHz

$ Product enhanced with increased CPU speed of 6/8/12Mhz starting with all units manufactured in the U.S.A..

Page 1 of 1

Epson Apex Product Support Bulletin

Product Support Bulletin

Product Support Bulletin

RODUCT

UPPORT

ULLETIN

EPSON

PRODUCT SUPPORT BULLETIN

EPSON

PRODUCT SUPPORT BULLETIN

P RODUCT S UPPORT B ULLETIN

RODUCT

UPPORT

ULLETIN

Product Support Bulletin

E P S O N

EPSON AMERICA INC.

DEPARTMENT

PRODUCT SUPPORT BULLETIN

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