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 NOTICE

The information contained in this guide is subject to change without notice.

C O M PA Q C O M P U T E R C O R P O R AT I O N S H A L L N O T B E L I A B L E F O R
T E C H N I C A L O R E D I TO R I A L O M I S S I O N S M A D E H E R E I N ; N O R F O R
INCIDENTAL OR CONSEQUENTIAL DAMAGES RESULTING FRQM THE
FURNISHING, PERFQRMANCE, QR USE OF THIS MATERIAL.

This guide contains information protected by copyright. No part of this guide

may be photographed or reproduced in any form without prior written con
sent from Compaq Computer Corporation.
Copyright © 1987 by Compaq Computer Corporation.
All rights are reserved.

COMPAQ®, and COMPAQ DESKPRO 286® are Registered Trademarks

of Compaq Computer Corporation.

The software described in this guide is furnished under a license agreement.

This software may be used or copied only in accordance with the terms of the
agreement.
Copyright © 1981, 1982, 1983,1984, 1985,1986,1987 by Microsoft® Corporation.
Microsoft® and MS-DOS® are Registered Trademarks of Microsoft Corporation.

3M® is a Registered Trademark of the Minnesota Mining and Manufacturing Company.

COMPAQ DESKPRO 286 Personal Computer

O P E R AT I O N S G U I D E

First Edition (May 1985)

Second Edition (October 1986)
Third Edition (February 1987)
Assembly #102551-003
Te x t # 1 0 2 5 9 3 - 0 0 3
Binder #102592-003

Compaq Computer Corporation

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 COMPAQ COMPUTER CORPORATION
COMPAQ DESKPRO 286®
With Twelve (12) Megahertz Operating Speed
One Year Limited Warranty
D e fi n i t i o n s
This one year limited Warranty applies to all models of the COMPAQ DESKPRO
286 Personal Computer which operate at twelve (12) megahertz and does not
apply to any COMPAQ DESKPRO 286 Personal Computer with a maximum
operating speed of eight (8) megahertz. During the one year period of this
Warranty, it also covers any optional or accessory product(s) manufactured
or sold by Compaq Computer Corporation ("Compaq") and installed by an
Authorized COMPAQ Computer Dealer or an Authorized CQMPAQ Warranty
Service Provider, in a CQMPAQ DESKPRO 286 Personal Computer. The COMPAQ
DESKPRQ 286 Personal Computer with a maximum operating speed of twelve
(12) megahertz and the covered optional or accessory products are the "CQMPAQ
Products" referred to in this Warranty. This one year limited Warranty, how
ever, does not apply to the CQMPAQ Dual-Mode Monitor, to any other optional
or accessory product not internally installed in the COMPAQ DESKPRO 286
Personal Computer or to any COMPAQ DESKPRO 286 Personal Computer
with a maximum operating speed of eight (8) megahertz.
You are the "Purchaser" if you are the original purchaser of the COMPAQ
Product from either Compaq or an Authorized CQMPAQ Computer Dealer.
This Warranty only applies to the original Purchasers, and is not transferable
to anyone who purchases the CQMPAQ Product from you.
The "Date of Purchase" is the date you originally purchased the CQMPAQ
Product, and is shown on the original Authorized CQMPAQ Computer Dealer
or Compaq proof of purchase. Your sales receipt, showing the Date of Purchase,
the CQMPAQ Product(s) purchased, and the name of the Authorized CQMPAQ
Computer Dealer that sold you the CQMPAQ Product(s), serves as your proof
of the Date of Purchase.

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 Warranty
Compaq warrants to you, the Purchaser, that the COMPAQ DESKPRO 286
Personal Computer, with a maximum operating speed of twelve (12) mega
hertz, you have purchased from an Authorized COMPAQ Computer Dealer
or from Compaq is free from defects in materials and workmanship for a
period of one year from the Date of Purchase.

Compaq further warrants to you, the Purchaser, that any optional or acces
sory products manufactured or sold by Compaq, which you purchase on or
after the Date of Purchase of the COMPAQ DESKPRO 286 Personal Computer,
covered by this limited Warranty, and which are installed in that COMPAQ
DESKPRO 286 Personal Computer by an Authorized COMPAQ Computer Dealer
or an Authorized COMPAQ Warranty Service Provider, are free from defects
in materials and workmanship for a period of one year from the Date of Purchase
of the COMPAQ DESKPRO 286 Personal Computer in which such COMPAQ
Product(s) are installed. If the optional or accessory products are purchased
for installation in the COMPAQ DESKPRO 286 Personal Computer less than
ninety (90) days prior to the expiration of the one year limited warranty applicable
to the COMPAQ DESKPRO 286 Personal Computer, then the optional or accessory
products are covered by the ninety (90) day limited warranties accompany
ing such products.
This further warranty does not apply to any optional or accessory products
which have previously been installed in any COMPAQ or other computer prior
to their installation in the COMPAQ DESKPRO 286 Personal Computer cov
ered by this limited Warranty.

This further warranty also does not apply to the COMPAQ Dual-Mode Monitor
or to any other optional accessory product used in connection with, but not
installed in, the COMPAQ DESKPRO 286 Personal Computer covered by this
limited Warranty.
Continued...

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 Remedies
During the Term of this Warranty, at no additional charge to the Purchaser,
Compaq will repair or replace any defective parts of the COMPAQ DESKPRO
286 Personal Computer purchased under this limited Warranty or of the optional
or accessory products covered by this limited Warranty, with new or, at the
option of Compaq, refurbished parts. To obtain this repair or replacement
service, the Purchaser must return the COMPAQ Product to an Authorized
COMPAQ Computer Dealer or Compaq. The Purchaser also may return the
COMPAQ Product to a participating Authorized COMPAQ Computer Warranty
Service Provider, at the Service Provider's option. The Purchaser must prepay
any shipping charges. In addition, the Purchaser is responsible for insuring
any product so returned and assumes the risk of loss during shipping. All
parts and products replaced under this Warranty become the property of
Compaq.

Warranty Claim Requirements

To claim service pursuant to this Warranty you, the Purchaser, must:

1. Provide any Authorized COMPAQ Computer Dealer, Compaq, or a par

ticipating Authorized CQMPAQ Computer Warranty Service Provider
with proof of the Date of Purchase from an Authorized COMPAQ
Computer Dealer or Compaq.
2. Return the COMPAQ Product to an Authorized COMPAQ Computer Dealer,
Compaq, or at the Service Provider's option, a participating Authorized
COMPAQ Computer Warranty Service Provider. The Purchaser must prepay
any shipping charges. In addition, the Purchaser is responsible for insuring
any product shipped for return, because under this Warranty the Purchaser
assumes the risk of loss during shipping.

Continued.

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 3. The Purchaser may request information on how to obtain Warranty ser
vice by contacting any Authorized COMPAQ Computer Dealer. You may
call 1-800-231-0900, toll-free, from anywhere In the 48 contiguous
United States and Hawaii for the location of the Authorized COMPAQ
Computer Dealer nearest you; or
4. The Purchaser may also request information on how to obtain
Warranty service by writing to the Customer Relations Department at
Compaq Computer Corporation, 20555 FM 149, Houston, Texas 77070.

Disclaimers
T H I S L I M I T E D WA R R A N T Y D O E S N O T E X T E N D T O A N Y P R O D U C T S N O T
PURCHASED FROM COMPAQ QR AN AUTHORIZED COMPAQ COMPUTER
DEALER. THIS LIMITED WARRANTY DOES NOT EXTEND TO ANY COMPAQ
DESKPRO 286 WITH A MAXIMUM QPERATING SPEED OF EIGHT (8)
M E G A H E RT Z . T H I S L I M I T E D WA R R A N T Y A L S O D O E S N O T E X T E N D TO
A N Y P R O D U C T S W H I C H H AV E B E E N D A M A G E D O R R E N D E R E D D E F E C
TIVE (a) AS A RESULT OF ACCIDENT, MISUSE, OR ABUSE; (b) BY THE USE
OF PARTS NOT MANUFACTURED OR SOLD BY COMPAQ; (c) BY MODIFI
CATION, OR (d) AS A RESULT OF SERVICE BY ANYONE OTHER THAN
COMPAQ, AN AUTHQRIZED COMPAQ COMPUTER DEALER, OR AN
AUTHORIZED COMPAQ CQMPUTER WARRANTY SERVICE PRQVIDER.
Continued...

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 EXCEPT AS EXPRESSLY SET FORTH ABOVE, COMPAQ MAKES NO OTHER
WARRANTIES, EXPRESS OR IMPLIED, INCLUDING, BUT NOT LIMITED
TO, ANY IMPLIED WARRANTIES OF MERCHANTABILITY AND FITNESS
FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE, AND COMPAQ EXPRESSLY DISCLAIMS ALL
W A R R A N T I E S N O T S TAT E D H E R E I N . I N T H E E V E N T T H E P R O D U C T I S
NOT FREE FROM DEFECTS AS WARRANTED ABOVE, YOUR SOLE REMEDY
AS THE PURCHASER SHALL BE REPAIR OR REPLACEMENT AS PROVIDED
ABOVE. UNDER NO CIRCUMSTANCES WILL COMPAQ BE LIABLE TO THE
PURCHASER, OR TO ANY USER, FOR ANY DAMAGES, INCLUDING ANY
INCIDENTAL OR CONSEQUENTIAL DAMAGES, EXPENSES, LOST PROF
ITS, LOST SAVINGS, OR OTHER DAMAGES ARISING OUT OF THE USE OR
INABILITY TO USE THE COMPAQ PRODUCT.

ANY IMPLIED WARRANTIES ARE LIMITED TO THE TERM OF THIS EXPRESS

L I M I T E D W A R R A N T Y.

S O M E S TAT E S D O N O T A L L O W T H E E X C L U S I O N O R L I M I TAT I O N O F
INCIDENTAL OR CONSEQUENTIAL DAMAGES FOR CONSUMER PROD
UCTS, AND SOME STATES DO NOT ALLOW LIMITATIONS ON HOW LONG
AN IMPLIED WARRANTY LASTS, SO THE ABOVE LIMITATIONS OR
E X C L U S I O N S M AY N O T A P P LY TO Y O U .

THIS WARRANTY GIVES YOU SPECIFIC LEGAL RIGHTS, AND YOU MAY
A L S O H AV E O T H E R R I G H T S W H I C H VA R Y F R O M S TAT E T O S TAT E .

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 WARNING
This equipment has been certified to comply with the limits for a Class
B computing device, pursuant to Subpart J or Part 15 of FCC Rules.
Only peripherals (computer input/output devices, terminals, printers,
etc.) certified to comply with the Class B limits may be attached to this
computer. Operation with noncertified peripherals is likely to result in
interference to radio and TV reception.

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 WARNING
This equipment generates, uses, and can radiate radio frequency energy.
If not installed and used in accordance with the manufacturer's instructions,
it may cause interference with radio and television reception. This
equipment has been certified to comply with the limits for a Class B
computing device, pursuant to Subpart J of Part 15 of FCC Rules, which
are designed to provide reasonable protection against such interfer
ence. Operating this equipment in a residential area can cause inter
ference. Should this occur, the user will be required to take whatever
measures may be necessary to eliminate the interference, in attempt
ing to do so, the user should do the following;
□ Reorient the receiving antenna.

□ Relocate the computer with respect to the receiver with which it

interferes.

□ Plug the computer into a different AC receptacle so that the com

puter and the receiver with which it interferes are on different
branch circuits.

If necessary, the user should consult the dealer or an experienced

radio/television technician for additional suggestions. The user may
find the following booklet prepared by the Federal Communications
Commission helpful:

INTERFERENCE HANDBOOK, 1986

This booklet is available from the US Government Printing Office,

Washington, DC 20402, Stock Number 0400-000-00450-7.

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 NOTICE
Compaq Computer Corporation requires that all peripheral devices be connected
to this computer via shielded cables with metal RFI/EMI connector hoods.

WIRE TYPE: Multi-paired, overaU-shieided; Belden #98XX; alpha #54XX;

or equivalent.
CONNECTOR RFI/EMI metal shield; AMP # 74517X-X; or equivaleni.
HOOD:

It is important that the chassis ground strap of the peripheral device be con
nected to the computer chassis. An Alpha #1221 flat-braided strap is suffi
cient. This strap is not necessary if the shielded cable connects the two chassis.

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 PRODUCT REVIEW
The COMPAQ DESKPRO 286® Personal Computer is a sophisticated, high-
performance personal computer that is designed to accommodate many aspects
of the business world. A broad variety of application programs are available
for the COMPAQ DESKPRO 286 Personal Computer including: spreadsheets,
data bases, word processing, accounting, programming languages and networks.

The COMPAQ DESKPRO 286 Personal Computer is available in three models:

The standard features of Model 1 include:

□ One 1.2-Megabyte Diskette Drive

□ 256 Kbytes of Random-Access Memory (RAM)

□ Parallel Printer Interface

□ Asynchronous Communications Interface

□ Real-Time Clock

□ Five Available 8/16-Bit Expansion Slots

□ Two Available 8-Bit Expansion Slots

□ An 80287 Coprocessor Socket

Continued...

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 The standard features of Model 20 include:

□ One 1.2-Megabyte Diskette Drive

□ One 20-Megabyte Fixed Disk Drive
□ 640 Kbytes of Random-Access Memory (RAM)
□ Parallel Printer Interface

□ Asynchronous Communications Interface

□ Real-Time Clock

□ Five Available 8/16-Bit Expansion Slots

□ Two Available 8-Bit Expansion Slots
□ An 80287 Coprocessor Socket

The standard features of Model 40 include:

□ One 1.2-Megabyte Diskette Drive

□ One 40-Megabyte Fixed Disk Drive

□ 640 Kbytes of Random-Access Memory (RAM)
□ Parallel Printer Interface

□ Asynchronous Communications Interface

□ Real-Time Clock

□ Five Available 8/16-Bit Expansion Slots

□ Two Available 8-Bit Expansion Slots
□ An 80287 Coprocessor Socket

The COMPAQ DESKPRO 286 Personal Computer comes with the COMPAQ
Enhanced Keyboard which has 101 keys (102 International). The COMPAQ
Enhanced Keyboard features separate cursor keys, a numeric keypad, two
CTRL keys, two ALT keys, and 12 function keys.
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 PHYSICAL SPECIFICATIONS
U S METRIC

System Unit W i d t h 19.8 in 50.3 cm

Height 6.4 in 16.2 cm
Depth 16.5 in 41.9 cm
We i g h t :
Model 1 37 lbs 16.7 kg
Model 20 42.4 lbs 19.1 kg
Model 40 42.4 lbs 19.1 kg
C O M PA Q Enhanced
Keyboard W i d t h 19.25 in 48.9 cm
Height 1.64 in 4.2 cm
Depth 8.30 in 21.1 cm
Weight 31b, 13 oz i.Skg
C O M PA Q Dual-Mode Monitor Width 14.75 in 37.5 cm
Height 10.25 in 26.0 cm
Depth 13.70 in 34.8 cm
Weight 20 lbs 9.1kg
C O M PA Q Color Monitor W i d t h 13.93 in 35.4 cm
Height 11 . 8 3 i n 30.0 cm
Depth 14.96 in 38.0 cm
Weight 28 lbs 12.8 kg
System Unit Environmental Requirements
Operating 50°F io 104T ( + 10°C to 40°C)
Nonoperating SOT to 113T (-i-10°C to 45°C)
C O M PA Q D u a l - M o d e M o n i t o r E n v i r o n m e n t a l R e q u i r e m e n t s
O p e r a t i n g 5 0 T t o 11 2 T ( - I - 1 0 ° C t o 4 5 ° C )
Nonoperating 32°F to 149T (-i- 0°C to 65°C)
C O M PA Q C o l o r M o n i t o r E n v i r o n m e n t a l R e q u i r e m e n t s
Operating SOT to 104T (-r 10°C to 40°C)
Nonoperating 14T to 131T (- 10°C to 55°C)

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 SUMMARY OF TEXT
The operations guide contains six chapters and two appendices.

Chapter 1 GETTING STARTED introduces you to the COMPAQ

DESKPRO 286 Personal Computer, tells you how to assem
ble the components, explains how to identify the different
types of diskette drives, supplies a place for recording the
fixed disk drive type, and explains how to adjust the monitor
intensity.

Chapter2 SYSTEM INITIALIZATION describes how to configure and

test your system using the USER DIAGNOSTIC diskette, how
to initialize your fixed disk, the purpose of the USER
PROGRAMS diskette, and how to select an operating speed.

Chapters KEYBOARD explains the use of each of the keys on the

COMPAQ Enhanced Keyboard.

Chapter 4 MOVING YOUR COMPUTER takes you through the paces

of preparing your computer for a safe move.

Chapter 5 OPTIONS gives a description of some of the options that are

available to expand the capabilities of your computer.

Chapter 6 INSTALLING EXPANSION BOARDS lists the procedures

for installing optional expansion boards.

Appendix A GLOSSARY defines technical terms that can be of use to

you.

Appendix B INDEX assists you in locating specific information throughout

this guide.

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 CONTENTS

Chapter 1
G E T T I N G S TA R T E D

1.1 INTRODUCTION lA
1.2 ASSEMBLING YOUR COMPONENTS lA
The System Unit 1-2
Unlocking the Security Lock 1-3
Monitors 1-4
C O M PA Q Dual-Mode Monitor 1-4
C O M PA Q Color Monitor 1-5
C O M PA Q Enhanced Keyboard 1-5
Attaching a Printer (Optional) 1-5
1.3 IDENTIFYING YOUR DISKETTE DRIVES ^
1.4 RECORDING THE FIXED DISK DRIVE TYPE
1.5 ADJUSTING THE MONITOR INTENSITY 1-8

Chapter 2
S Y S T E M I N I T I A L I Z AT I O N

2.1 INTRODUCTION ^
2.2 RUNNING SETUP ^
2.3 RUNNING THE DIAGNOSTIC TESTS ^
Diagnostics Main Menu 2-3
Format a Diskette (Diagnostics Only) 2-3
Copy a Diskette (Diagnostics Only) 2-3
Display ROM Version 2-3
2.4 DISKINIT (INITIALIZING YOUR FIXED DISK) ^
2.5 USER PROGRAMS ^
2.6 O P E R AT I N G SPEEDS 2-4

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 Chapters
KEYBOARD

3.1 KEYBOARD INTRODUCTION 3-1

3.2 KEYBOARD FUNCTIONS 3-1

Chapter 4
MOVING YOUR COMPUTER

4.1 MOVING YOUR COMPUTER 4-1

Saving Your Files 4-1

Removing the Diskette 4-1

Powering Down 4-1

Disconnecting Peripherals 4-1

Protecting the Diskette Drive Heads 4-1

Packing 4-1

Chapter 5
OPTIONS

5.1 OPTIONS 5-1

COMPAQ Enhanced Color Graphics Board 5-1

COMPAQ Color Monitor 5-1

COMPAQ Video Display Controller Board 5-2

COMPAQ Dual-Mode Monitor 5-2

512-Kbyte Memory Upgrade Kit 5-2

512/2048-Kbyte Memory Board 5-2

20-, 40-, and 70-Megabyte Fixed Disk Drives 5-3

40-Megabyte Fixed Disk Drive Backup 5-3

Diskette Drives 5-4
MS-DOS/BASIC Version 3 Reference Guides and Diskettes 5-4
Te c h n i c a l R e f e r e n c e G u i d e s 5-5
8-MHz 80287 Coprocessor 5-5

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 Chapter 6
I N S TA L L I N G A N E X PA N S I O N B O A R D

6 . 1 I N S TA L L I N G A N E X PA N S I O N B O A R D ^
To o l Requirements 6-1
Powering Down 6-2
Disconnecting Peripherals and Removing the Access Cover 6-2
Installing the Expansion Board 6-4
Reassembly 6-4

Appendix A
GLOSSARY A-1

Appendix B
I N D E X B-1

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 FIGURES

1-1. The COMPAQ DESKPRO 286 Personal Computer M

1-2. The Security Lock 1-3

1-3. Connecting the COMPAQ Dual-Mode Monitor to

the System Unit 1-4

1-4. COMPAQ Enhanced Keyboard 1-5

1-5. The Parallel Printer Interface 1-5

1-6. The Brightness Control Knob on the COMPAQ

Dual-Mode Monitor 1-8
1-7. The Brightness Control Knob on the COMPAQ Color Monitor 1-8
3-1. The Security Lock on the COMPAQ DESKPRO 286
Personal Computer 3-1

3-2. The COMPAQ Enhanced Keyboard 3-1

5-1. One of Several Options Available for the COMPAQ

DESKPRO 286 Personal Computer 5-1
5-2. 512/2048-Kbyte Memory Board 5-2

5-3. 70-Megabyte Fixed Disk Drive 5-3

5-4. Fixed Disk Drive Backup 5-3

5-5. 1.2-Megabyte Diskette Drive 5-4

6-1. The COMPAQ DESKPRO 286 Personal Computer has up to

Seven Available Expansion Slots 6-1

6-2. The Three Retaining Screws 6-3

6-3. Installing an Expansion Board 6-4

TA B L E

2-1. CPU Operating Speed 2-5

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pcjs.org
pcjs.org
 CONTENTS

Chapter 1
G E T T I N G S TA R T E D

1.1 INTRODUCTION 1-1

ASSEMBLING YOUR COMPONENTS 1-2

The System Unit 1-2

Unlocking the Security Lock 1-3

Monitors 1-4

COMPAQ Dual-Mode Monitor 1-4

COMPAQ Color Monitor 1-5

COMPAQ Enhanced Keyboard 1-5

Attaching a Printer (Qptional) 1-5

IDENTIFYING YOUR DISKETTE DRIVES 1-6

RECORDING THE FIXED DISK DRIVE TYPE 1-7

ADJUSTING THE MONITOR INTENSITY 1-8

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 Operations Guide 1-1
Chapter 1
G E T T I N G S TA R T E D

1.1 INTRODUCTION

The COMPAQ DESKPRO 286 Personal Computer

provides faster processing speed, more expand
ability, and more capability than previous genera
tions of personal computers. The COMPAQ
DESKPRO 286 Personal Computer meets the
personal computing needs of a variety of users.
This easy-to-read operations guide will teach you
how to assemble the components, and take you
to a point of being productive in the shortest
Figure 1-1. The COMPAQ DESKPRO 286
length of time. Personal Computer.

To use your COMPAQ DESKPRO 286 Personal

Computer you must first purchase an operating
system such as MS-DOS® as published by
Compaq® Computer Corporation.

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 1-2 C/iapter i, Getting Started

We recommend that you purchase an operating 1.2 ASSEMBLING YOUR

system developed by Compaq Computer COMPONENTS
Corporation because it contains many utilities
designed for COMPAQ Personal Computers.
Unpack your COMPAQ DESKPRO 286 Personal
The COMPAQ DESKPRO 286 Personal Computer Computer system unit, keyboard, and monitor.
is equipped with a security lock on the front of
the system unit that allows you to secure the
The System Unit
computer from unauthorized access.
Place the system unit on your work surface.
Your CQMPAQ DESKPRO 286 Personal
Remove and discard the cardboard retainer in
Computer operates in three speeds. These are the the diskette drive. DO NOT PLUG IN THE
FAST, HIGH, and AUTO operating speeds. Refer SYSTEM UNIT AT THIS TIME.
to Chapter 2, INITIALIZING YOUR SYSTEM, for
more information on speed performance options.

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I Operations Guide 1-3

Unlocking the Security Lock

A package of keys for the security lock and an
identification card were packed with your system
unit. Record your key ID number and your sys
tem serial number on the card. File the card in a
safe place. Also record this information in the
spaces provided in this chapter.
Duplication of your security lock keys is prohib
ited, but you may order additional keys through
the lock manufacturer listed on the back of your
key card. Figure 1-2. The Security Lock.

Have your security lock key's ID number handy

before contacting this company. Without this
number, the lock company will be unable to
make your replacement key(s). Contact this
company at the address or telephone number
listed on the card.

NOTE; If both of your keys and your ID numbers

are lost or destroyed, the entire security
lock mechanism must be replaced.
Record your key ID number information
below in the spaces provided.
KEY ID NUMBER

SYSTEM SERIAL NUMBER

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 1-4 Chapter 1, Getting Started

Insert the key into the security lock keyhole

located on the front left side of the system unit,
and turn the key clockwise to the unlocked posi
tion. The key may be removed in either position.
Unlocking the security lock allows you to use
your keyboard, as well as have access to the
inside of your system unit. The security lock also
prevents unauthorized use of the keyboard while
you are running long programs that you do not
want interrupted.

Figure 1-3. Connecting the COMPAQ Dual-Mode Monitor to
the System Unit.
Monitors
Place the COMPAQ Dual-Mode or COMPAQ
Color Monitor on top of the system unit, with
the screen facing the front.

COMPAQ Dual-Mode Monitor

There are two monitor cables on the CQMPAQ
Dual-Mode Monitor that must be connected to
the system unit; one has a circular connector
and the other has a 9-pin connector. Plug the
circular connector into the 3-pin circular power
interface labeled COMPAQ MONITOR POWER
INTERFACE on the back of the system unit.
Plug the 9-pin connector into the interface
near the center on the back of the system unit
(Figure 1-3).

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 Operations Guide 1-5

COMPAQ Color Monitor

For installation instructions, see the COMPAQ
C O L O R M O N I TO R I N S TA L L A T I O N G U I D E t h a t
is included with your COMPAQ Color Monitor.

COMPAQ Enhanced Keyboard

The keyboard (Figure 1-4) has two hinged feet on
its base. These may be either folded out to elevate
the rear of the keyboard or left flush for a level
working position. Follow these instructions to
attach your keyboard to the system unit:
1. Plug the square keyboard cord connector
into the keyboard.

2. Plug the round keyboard connector into

the connection on the front left of the
system unit.

Attaching a Printer (Optional)

Follow the printer manufacturer's instructions
to plug the printer into the parallel or asyn
chronous communications interface on the back
of the system unit as applicable (Figure 1-5).
Figure 1-5. The Parallel Printer Interface.

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 1-6 C/iapter 7, Getting Started

1.3 IDENTIFYING YOUR Not all combinations of reading and writing

diskettes in the diskette drives are possible. To
DISKETTE DRIVES
assist you in determining what combinations are
You may have any combination of up to two of possible, different color LED indicators appear
the following diskette drives installed in your on the drives. When your computer is off or the
COMPAQ DESKPRO 286 Personal Computer: drive is not in use, the LED indicator on a 360-
Kbyte diskette drive is RED and the LED indica
□ 1.2-megabyte diskette drive
tor on a 1.2-megabyte diskette drive is CLEAR.
□ 360-Kbyte diskette drive When the 1.2-megabyte diskette drive is reading
There are also two types of diskettes which may a 1.2-megabyte diskette, the LED is GREEN.
be used with the drives. When the 1.2-megabyte diskette drive is reading
a 360-Kbyte diskette, the LED is RED.
"^•^Hcapacity
g
i h-capadiskettes
ctiy,doubel -sd
i ed 1.2-megabyte

fDua
d
-leny,tsidoub
eld
s-ied360K
capacity diskettes
-byet

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 1.4 RECORDING THE FDCED
DISK DRIVE TYPE
Writing on a 360-Kbyte diskette in a
1.2-megabyte diskette drive may cause Ifyour model includes a fixed disk drive, a label
unpredictable results when reading this dis- indicating the type of fixed disk drive installed is on
kette in a 360-Kbyte diskette drive. the front of the system unit. Write the drive type
number on the line below. You will need this
information when you run the SETUP program.
DRIVE TYPE NUMBER: H
(record number here)

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 1-8 Chapter 1, Getting Started
Figure 1-6. The Brightness Control Knob on the
COMPAQ Dual-Mode Monitor.
Figure 1-7. The Brightness Control Knob on the
COMPAQ Color Monitor.
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1.5 ADJUSTING THE
M O N I TO R I N T E N S I T Y
After you plug in and turn on your computer, you
can adjust the screen intensity by turning the
brightness control knob, located on the front of
the COMPAQ Dual-Mode Monitor (Figure 1-6),
and on the side of the COMPAQ Color Monitor
(Figure 1-7), in a clockwise direction to increase
intensity.
You have now completed the assembly of your
new computer. If your dealer has not already
done so, your next steps are to configure and test
your unit, format and partition your fixed disk
drive, and to select an operating speed. Proceed
to Chapter2, SYSTEM INITIALIZATION, for
instructions on completing these tasks.
pcjs.org
 CONTENTS

Chapter 2
S Y S T E M I N I T I A L I Z AT I O N

2.1 INTRODUCTION 2-1

2.2 RUNNING SETUP 2-1

2.3 RUNNING THE DIAGNOSTIC TESTS 2-2

Diagnostics Main Menu 2-3

Format a Diskette (Diagnostics Only) 2-3

Copy a Diskette (Diagnostics Only) 2-3

Display ROM Version 2-3

2.4 DISKINIT (INITIALIZING YOUR FIXED DISK) 2-3

2.5 USER PROGRAMS 2-4

2.6 OPERATING SPEEDS 2-4

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Chapter 2
SYSTEM INITIALIZATION
2.1 INTRODUCTION
This chapter contains reference material about
the SETUP and DIAGNOSTICS programs located
on your USER DIAGNOSTICS diskette; it
includes information on initializing your fixed
disk, and it describes the USER PROGRAMS
diskette. This chapter also explains how to set
the operating speed.
To initialize your system, perform the following
steps which are described in this chapter:
1. Run SETUP to configure your system.
2. Run TEST to determine that all compo
nents are operating properly.
3. Run DISKINIT to initialize your fixed
disk drive.
4. Boot your USER PROGRAMS diskette for
the latest program version information.
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Operations Guide 2-1
2.2 RUNNING SETUP
The first step in initializing your system is to
run the SETUP program, located on the USER
DIAGNOSTICS diskette. The SETUP program
allows you to enter the current date, time, and
system configuration. The SETUP program then
enters this information into a memory device.
You need to run SETUP under the following
conditions:
□ When your computer is used the first time.
□ When the system configuration is changed
(such as added memory).
□ When certain options are added to your
system. The documentation that is included
with your option kit will instruct you when
it is necessary to run this program.
□ If the system board or battery is discon
nected or replaced for any reason.
□ If a system configuration error is detected
during the Power-On Self-Tests. In this
situation, the system prompts you to run
SETUP so that you can enter the correct
information before continuing.
 2-2 Chapter 2, System Initialization
To run SETUP, follow these instructions:
1. Insert the USER DIAGNOSTICS diskette
you received with this operations guide into
Drive A and close the diskette drive door.
2. Turn on the computer, or reset the system
by pressing the CTRL, ALT, and DEL keys
simultaneously. The computer performs a
self-test to determine whether all compo
nents are operating properly. During this
self-test, the LED's will flash and you will
hear beeps. The memory is tested, and the
total amount of RAM is displayed in the
upper left corner of the screen.
3. At the A> prompt, type "SETUP" and press
the ENTER key.
The SETUP program sets the system configura
tion, prompting you for information as necessary.
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2.3 RUNNING THE
DIAGNOSTIC TESTS
The diagnostic tests determine whether all the
components of the computer are functioning
properly.
To run the diagnostic tests, follow this
procedure:
1. If you have just completed the SETUP pro
gram, skip Steps 2 and 3 of this procedure.
2. Insert the USER DIAGNOSTICS diskette
you received with this operations guide into
Drive A and close the diskette drive door.
3. Turn on the computer, or reset the system
by pressing the CTRL, ALT, and DEL keys
simultaneously.
4. At the A> prompt, type "TEST" and press
the ENTER key.
5. Select the RUN THE DIAGNOSTIC TESTS
option.

Diagnostics Main Menu
The Diagnostics main menu allows you to run
the diagnostic tests, format or copy a diagnostic
diskette, run the SETUP program, display ROM
version information, or return to the operating
system. A description of some of these selec
tions follows.
Format a Diskette (Diagnostics Only)
A formatted diskette is required for each diskette
drive being tested. This selection allows you to
format a diskette for use with diagnostics. A dis
kette formatted for diagnostics cannot be used as
an MS-DOS diskette unless it is reformatted
under MS-DOS.
Copy a Diskette (Diagnostics Only)
This selection allows you to make a copy of your
USER DIAGNOSTICS diskette. Copy the entire
contents of this diskette onto another diskette
and place your original USER DIAGNOSTICS
diskette in a safe place. Use your copy for testing.
Display ROM Version
This selection displays information about the
current version level of ROM in your system.
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Operations Guide 2-3
2.4 DISKINIT (INITIALIZING
YOUR FIXED DISK)
If your computer contains a fixed disk drive, you
must partition and format it before you can use
it to store information. A partition is a logical
division on a fixed disk drive. You must create at
least one partition for your operating system,
but you can create a maximum of four. Creating
additional logical drives is, to your system,
no different than installing additional physical
drives. Each partition can contain its own
operating system.
MS-DOS Version 3 or higher has a utility called
DISKINIT. This utility creates partitions on a
fixed disk drive, formats the fixed disk drive, sets
the date and time, copies the system files and
utilities onto the formatted fixed disk drive, and
creates AUTOEXEC.BAT and CONFIG.SYS files.
DISKINIT is explained in \ht MS-DOS VERSION
3 REFERENCE GUIDE.
NOTE: Make a copy of each diskette provided
with your system and store the originals
in a safe place.
 2-4 Chapter2, System Initialization
2.5 USER PROGRAMS
The USER PROGRAMS diskette contains pro
grams or utilities that may provide specific
support for features of your system. You need to
use the latest version of these programs. To
determine whether the MS-DOS or the USER
PROGRAMS contains the latest version of the
program, check the dates and version infor
mation contained on the USER PROGRAMS
diskette against the version information on your
MS-DOS diskette provided from Compaq.
2 . 6 O P E R AT I N G S P E E D S
The COMPAQ DESKPRO 286 Personal Computer
can operate in HIGH, FAST, or AUTO speed. In
HIGH speed, the computer operates at 12 MHz;
in FAST speed, it operates at 8 MHz; in AUTO
speed, it operates at 12 MHz, switching to 8 MHz
when accessing the diskette drive as required by
certain application programs. Compaq ships the
computer so that it boots up in AUTO mode.
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The operating speed of the computer may be
changed in one of two ways:
□ By pressing the CTRL, ALT, and BACK
SLASH (\) keys simultaneously.
□ By issuing the following MS-DOS MODE
SPEED command:
(d: )(path]MODE SPE[ed] ( = ) [n]
where n can represent HIGH, FAST, or AUTO
which are described in Table 2-1.
Table 2-1. CPU Operating Speed
Option Operating Speed
HIG[h] 12 MHz ~~
FAS(t) 8 MHz
AUT( o) 12MHz(CPU speed Is reduced to
8 MHz during diskette access).
Two beeps at power-up indicate that the
computer is operating at the AUTO or HIGH
operating speed, and one beep indicates that
it is operating at the FAST operating speed.
 Q

i -
T 1
S

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 CONTENTS

Chapters
KEYBOARD

3.1 KEYBOARD INTRODUCTION

3.2 KEYBOARD FUNCTIONS

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 Chapters Operations Guide 3-1

KEYBOARD

3.1 KEYBOARD INTRODUCTION

The keyboard is the primary device used to com

municate with the computer. To activate the key
board, you must first unlock the security lock on
the computer's front panel (Figure 3-1). Insert
one of the two keys included with your system
unit into the security lock and turn it clockwise
until it stops. You may either leave your key in or
take it out of the security lock while operating
y o u r c o m p u t e r.
Figure 3-1. The Security Lock on the COMPAQ
The COMPAQ DESKPRO 286 comes with a DESKPRO 286 Personal Computer.

COMPAQ Enhanced Keyboard (Figure 3-2).

3.2 KEYBOARD FUNCTIONS

Besides using your keyboard to enter informa

tion, you can use it to perform other functions,
such as stopping an operation and starting
scrolling. The following table lists the keyboard
sequences required by MS-DOS to perform var
ious functions. If more than one key is required,
press the keys simultaneously.

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 3-2 Chapters, Keyboard

Function Action
System Restart Press the CTRL, ALT, and DEL keys simultaneously.
Increase keyclick volume Press the CTRL, ALT, and PLUS (Irom the numeric keypad) keys until you
reach the desired volume.
Decrease keyclick volume Press the CTRL, ALT, and MINUS (irom the numeric keypad) keys until
you reach the desired volume.
Terminate (abort) Press the CTRL and PAUSE/BREAK keys.
an operation
H a l t s c r o l l i n g a c t i o n P r e s s t h e PA U S E k e y.
(temporarily)
R e s u m e s c r o l l i n g a c t i o n P r e s s a n y k e y.
(after temporary pause)
Print data (echo text) Press the CTRL key and PRINT SCREEN keys simultaneously. Thereafter,
from the screen (line by line) each time you type data and press the ENTER key, the line printer echoes
what you t^ed.
Print data from screen Press Print Screen.
(full screen)
Change operating speed Press CTRL, ALT, and BACKSLASH (\) keys or use MODE SPEED command.
Select Monitor Mode Use MS-DOS MODE command or:
High-resolution Press the CTRL, ALT, and GREATER THAN (>) keys simultaneously.
Medium-resolution text Press the CTRL, ALT, and LESS THAN (<) keys simultaneously.
NOTE: Do not attempt to perform a PRINT-SCREEN (echo text) without a printer attached. Doing so terminates
any interaction with the computer until you turn it off or perform a SYSTEM RESET. This can result in a
loss of valuable data.

Performing a PRINT-SCREEN (full screen) without a printer also causes the system to lock temporarily.
This condition will correct itself in seconds without operator intervention.

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o

n
0

1
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 CONTENTS

Chapter 4
MOVING YOUR COMPUTER

4.1 MOVING YOUR COMPUTER 4-1

Saving Your Files 4-1

Removing the Diskette 4-1

Powering Down 4-1

Disconnecting Peripherals 4-1

Protecting the Diskette Drive Heads 4-1

Packing 4-1

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 Operations Guide 4-1
Chapter 4
MOVING YOUR COMPUTER

4.1 MOVING YOUR COMPUTER Disconnecting Peripherals

Disconnect all peripherals, cables, the monitor,
If you are planning to move your COMPAQ and the power cord from the rear of the system
DESKFRO 286 Personal Computer, be sure to unit. Disconnect the keyboard from the front of
prepare for the move. the system unit. Secure all cables.

Saving Your Files Protecting the Diskette Drive Heads

Save the file you are currently working on before Insert a blank diskette(s) into the diskette
you turn off the computer.
drive(s) and close the diskette drive(s) lever(s).

Removing the Diskette

Remove the diskette from the drive and store it
in its protective jacket in a safe place.
Powering Down
Press the ON/OFF switch (1/0) to the OFF (0)
position. Unplug the power cord from the AC
receptacle.
CAUTION
Do not use the same diskette(s) used to pro
tect the diskette drive heads for storing data
as these diskettes are subject to damage.
Packing
Pack each item in its original box, or similar
packaging, and place sufficient packing material
around the computer to protect the components
during the move.

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pcjs.org
pcjs.org
 CONTENTS

Chapter 5
OPTIONS

5.1 OPTIONS ^
C O M PA Q Enhanced Color Graphics Board 5-1
COMPAQ Color Monitor 5-1
CQMPAQ Video Display Controller Board 5-2
CQMPAQ Dual-Mode Monitor 5-2

512-Kbyte Memory Upgrade Kit 5-2

512/2048-Kbyte Memory Board 5-2

20-, 40-, and 70-Megabyte Fixed Disk Drives 5-3
40-Megabyte Fixed Disk Drive Backup 5-3
Diskette Drives 5-4
MS-DOS/BASIC Version 3 Reference Guides and Diskettes 5-4
Technical Reference Guides 5-5
8-MHz 80287 Coprocessor 5-5

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 Operations Guide 5-1
Chapters
OPTIONS

5.1 OPTIONS

A variety of options are available to expand your

computer's capabilities both internally and
externally (Figure 5-1). When you purchase
options for your computer that are supplied by
Compaq Computer Corporation, installation
booklets are included.

COMPAQ Enhanced Color

Graphics Board
The COMPAQ Enhanced Color Graphics Board
offers 16 colors from a palette of 64, a standard
screen memory of 256 Kbytes, EGA compatible Figure 5-1. One of Several Options Available for the
COMPAQ DESKPRO 286 Personal Computer.
with a maximum of 640 x 350 display resolu
tion, enhanced RGB interface, 2 RCA jacks, and
a light pen interface.

COMPAQ Color Monitor

The COMPAQ Color Monitor has a 13-inch non-
glare screen supporting a resolution of up to
640 X 350 and up to 64 colors.

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 5-2 Chapters, Options

COMPAQ Video Display

Controller Board
The COMPAQ Video Display Controller Board
includes composite video, color monitor, and
RF modulation interfaces.

Dual-Mode Monitor
The 12-inch green or amber screen supports
dual-mode high-resolution text and graphics.

Figure 5-2. 512/2048-Kbyte Memory Board.

512-Kbyte Memory Upgrade Kit
A 512-Kbyte memory upgrade kit is available and
can be installed on the system board, or on the
512/2048-Kbyte memory expansion board.

512/2048-Kbyte Memory Board

The COMPAQ DESKPRO 286 Personal Computer
can have three (3) memory expansion boards
with up to 2048 Kbytes each, for a total system
RAM of 8.1 megabytes (Figure 5-2).

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 Operations Guide 5-3

20", 40", and 70-Megabyte Fixed

Disk Drives

20-, 40-, and 70-Megabyte Fixed Disk Drives are

all offered as options (Figure 5-3).

For each 20 megabytes of storage capacity, you

can store 10,240 double-spaced pages, a mailing
list of 200,000 names, or complete payroll infor
mation for more than 12,000 employees. The
20-megabyte storage capacity is equivalent to
more than seventeen 1.2-megabyte diskettes.
Figure 5-3. 70-Megabyte Fixed Disk Drive.

40-Megabyte Fixed Disk Drive Backup

The internal fixed disk drive backup reduces desk
clutter and eliminates the need to back up data
onto diskettes. The fixed disk drive backup stores
data on a magnetic tape (Figure 5-4). The 40-
megabyte fixed disk drive backup can store the
contents of one 40-megabyte fixed disk drive
using a DC 2000 tape cartridge. If your fixed
disk drive has greater storage capacity (i.e. 70
megabytes), you can store more data by using
more than one tape cartridge in succession.
Figure 5-4. Fixed Disk Drive Backup.

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 Diskette Drives

360-Kbyte diskette drives and 1.2-megabyte

diskette drives are offered as options for your
COMPAQ DESKPRO 286 Personal Computer
(Figure 5-5).

MS-DOS/BASIC Version 3 Reference

Guides And Diskettes

MS-DOS VERSION3 REFERENCE GUIDE and

BASIC VERSIONS REEERENCE GUIDE and
diskettes, developed by Compaq Computer
Corporation, are sold as an optional package. The
MS-DOS VERSION3 REFERENCE GUIDE
defines in detail all MS-DOS commands and util
ities. Tht BASIC VERSION3 REFERENCE
GUIDE provides programming instructions as
well as BASIC programming commands.

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Technical Reference Guides
There are two technical references which are
offered as options for your computer. These are
the 80286-BASED PRODUCTS TECHNICAL
REFERENCE GUIDE and the COMPAQ
ENHANCED COLOR GRAPHICS BOARD
TECHNICAL REFERENCE GUIDE. These
guides provide hardware and system (ROM)
information for:
□ People who want to know more about the
hardware and firmware in their system and
general theories about how their system
works.
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Operations Guide 5-5
□ Technicians or engineers who need techni
cal information to design accessories for
the system.
□ Programmers who need to know more
about their system for programming
purposes.
8-MHz 80287 Coprocessor
The 8-MHz 80287 coprocessor increases calcula
tion speed for math-intensive applications,
such as spreadsheets and CAD/CAE, with built-
in coprocessor support.
pcjs.org
 CONTENTS

Chapter 6
I N S TA L L I N G A N E X PA N S I O N B O A R D

6.1 I N S TA L L I N G AN E X PA N S I O N BOARD 6-1

To o l Requirements 6-1
Powering Down 6-2
Disconnecting Peripherals and Removing the Access Cover 6-2
Installing the Expansion Board 6-4
Reassembly ^

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 Chapter 6
I N S TA L L I N G A N
E X PA N S I O N B O A R D

6.1 INSTALLING AN
EXPANSION BOARD

Your COMPAQ DESKPRO 286 Personal Computer

has up to seven available expansion board slots
to expand your computer's capabilities.

Tool Requirements
□ Torx T-15 or a flat-blade screwdriver

Figure 6-1. The COMPAQ DESKPRO 286 Personal

CAUTION Computer has up to Seven Available Expansion Slots.

Although the computer is designed for easy

access to upgradable areas, it is strongly rec
ommended that only Authorized COMPAQ
Computer Service Representatives perform
any upgrades. An Authorized COMPAQ
Computer Representative is trained in per
forming upgrades, and insures the accurate
installation of the option.

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 6-2 Chapter 6, Installing an Expansion Board
WARNING
Before you remove the system unit case, set
the ON/OFF switch (1/0) to the OFF (0)
position, and disconnect the power cord from
the AC receptacle and the computer.
Failure to disconnect the computer from all
AC voltage sources can cause dangerous
voltages to be present in the power supply
and the video display unit. Even when the
ON/OFF switch is set to the OFF position,
any electrically-conductive material inside
these areas can cause an electric shock.
Powering Down
□ Set the ON/OFF switch (1/0) to the OFF (0)
position.
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Disconnecting Peripherals and
Removing the Access Cover
1. Disconnect the power cords of any external
options (monitors, printers, etc.) from their
AC receptacles.
2. Disconnect the system unit power cord
from its AC receptacle.
3. Disconnect the keyboard connector cord
from the front of the system unit.
4. Disconnect the monitor cables. Set the
monitor and the keyboard to the side, away
from the system unit.
5. Unlock the security lock by turning the key
counterclockwise, to the unlocked position.
6. Place the system unit on a level surface,
such as a table or workbench, with the back
of the unit (ON/OFF switch and external
connections) facing you.
 Operations Guide 6-3

7. Remove the three (3) screws from the back

of the system unit (Figure 6-2). Retain the
screws in a safe place.

8. Carefully push the cover away from you

until you feel a stop.
9. Lift the cover straight up, away from the
system unit. Set the cover aside, out of
the way.

CAUTION
Figure 6-2. The Three Retaining Screws.
The expansion boards are fragile and must
be handled carefully to prevent damage. Also,
many of the components on the expansion
boards are sensitive to static electricity. Before
touching any of the expansion boards, make
sure you are discharged of static electricity
by briefly touching a grounded metal object.

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 6-4 Chapters, Installing an Expansion Board

Installing the Expansion Board

1. Remove the board slot access cover.

2. Insert the expansion board into the appro

priate slot and press firmly.
3. Install the retaining screw to secure the
board to the system unit.

4. Connect the appropriate signal and power

cables, if applicable. Refer to the appropriate
option installation guide.
Figure 6-3. Installing an Expansion Board. 5. Make sure that the system board configura
tion switches are set correctly.

Reassembly
1. Replace the cover.

2. Connect the monitor and the keyboard.

3. Connect the system unit power cord, and
other external option power cords to their
AC receptacles.

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 r r r r mi mi m

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>
 Appendix A Operations Guide A-1

GLOSSARY

application A computer program backup (1) A second copy of data

program designed to meet specific on a diskette or other
user needs. medium to recover from
loss or destruction of the
ASCII Acronym for American original media or data.
Standard Code for
(2) On-site or remote
Information Interchange.
ASCII is a standardized equipment that is avail
able to complete an
7-bit (8-bit including
operation in the event of
parity) code used by most
primary equipment failure.
computers for data
communications.
BASIC Acronym for Beginner's
A way of transmitting data All-purpose Symbolic
asynchronous
Instruction Code. BASIC
communication serially from one device to
is a computer program
another in which each
transmitted character is ming language that is
widely accepted as a time
preceded by a START bit
and followed by a STOP sharing language and
is considered one of the
bit. It is also called start/
easiest programming
stop transmission.
languages to learn.

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 A-2 Appendix A, Glossary

bit A combination of the character Any single letter of the

words binary and digit. A alphabet, numeral, punc
bit is the smallest unit of tuation mark, or other
information recognizable symbol that a computer
by a computer. can read, write, and store.

byte The number of bits that chassis A metal frame surround

represents a character to ing all interior parts of the

the computer; a byte is system unit.
normally 8 bits and
usually encoded in the command A pulse, signal, word, or
ASCII format. series of letters that cause
a computer to start, stop,
or continue a specific
operation. Command is
often used incorrectly as a
cardboard retainers Thin, 5-1/4-inch square
cardboard diskette synonym for instruction,
which is a program step
replicas that are used to
that tells the computer
protect the drive heads.
what to do next.

central processor The part of the computer

unit (CPU) c u r s o r A blinking line or box on a
system that interprets
a n d e xe cu te s i n stru cti o n s. computer's display screen
that indicates the next
It performs calculations,
routes information, location for data entry.
controls input and out
put, and temporarily
stores data.

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 Operations Guide A-3

D diskette drive (see drive)

data A general term used to Disk Operating A collection of programs

signify ail the basic infor System (DOS) that enables the computer
mation elements that can to operate using a diskette
be produced by a computer. drive system for data entry
and storage. Disk Operating
device A piece of hardware that System is usually abbrevi
can perform a specific ated as DOS.
function. A printer is an
example of a device. display Visible representation of
data on a screen, usually
on a cathode-ray tube.
diagnostics A special program that is
program used to test equipment Also see video display unit.
or isolate equipment
malfunctions. double-density A type of diskette that has
twice the storage capacity
disk drive (see drive) of standard single-density
diskettes.
diskette A flat, flexible platter
coated with magnetic double-sided A diskette that can record

material, enclosed in a on both of its sides.

non-removable, protective
drive A device that holds and
envelope, and used
for storage of software manipulates magnetic
and data. media so that the CPU can
read data from or write
data to them.

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 A-4 Appendix A, Glossary

d u a l - m o d e m o n i t o r C O M PA Q D u a l - M o d e fi x e d d i s k d r i v e A fixed (hard) disk

monitors are capable of enclosed in a permanently
two operating modes: sealed housing that
graphics and high- protects it from environ
resolution text. mental interference. Used
for storage of data.
E
fixed disk drive A device that utilizes a

error code A visual (usually numeric backup tape cartridge system onto
which the information on a
characters) indication of
fixed disk can be transferred.
hardware malfunction.

format A predetermined arrange

error message An audible or visual indi
ment of data that struc
cation of hardware or soft
tures the storage of
ware malfunction or an
information on an exter
illegal data-entry attempt. nal storage device.

^ function keys Specific keys on the key

board that, when pressed,
fi l e A c o l l e c t i o n o f r e l a t e d d a t a instruct the computer to
or programs that is perform a particular oper
treated as a unit by the ation. The function of
computer. the keys is determined by
the application program
being used.

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T Operations Guide A-5

G /

graphics A technique of using lines interface An information inter

and symbols to display change path that allows
information, rather parts of a computer,
than using alphanumeric computers, and external
characters. equipment (such as
printers, monitors, or
H modems), or two or more
computers to communi
cate or interact.
hardware The physical equipment
that comprises a system.
IN USE indicator An LED indicator that

head A component of a drive goes on when the diskette

that is used to read or drives are spinning.
write, to diskettes, fixed
disks, tapes, or other K
magnetic storage media.
K The symbol signifying the
high capacity The maximum amount of quantity 2 to the 10th
data possible. power, which is equal
to 1024.

high resolution The ability to better depict

details of characters or Kbyte 1024 bytes.
graphics on the screen.

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 A-6 Appendix A, Glossary
keyboard A device used to enter data
by producing encoded
alphanumeric character
information when a key
is pressed.
L
LED indicator An acronym for Light
Emitting Diode.
M displays data on a CRT.
M The symbol signifying the
quantity 1,000,000 (10/6).
When used to denote
storage, it more precisely
refers to 1,048,576 (2/20).
MB An abbreviation for
megabyte.
operating system
megabyte 1,000,000 bytes.
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f
memory The high speed work area
in the computer where
data can be held, copied,
and retrieved.
m e n u A list of choices from
which an operator can
select a task or opera
tion to be performed by
the computer.
monitor A peripheral device that
Video monitors can have
color displays.
MS-DOS Acronym for Microsoft
Disk Operating System.
0
An organized group of
computer instructions
that manage the overall
operation of the computer.

option An add-on device that
expands a system's
capabilities.
parallel output The method by which all
bits of a binary word are
transmitted simultaneously.
peripheral An external input/output,
or storage device.
printer A device that produces the
printed paper copy (hard
copy) of a document, file,
or screen display.
read-only memory
program A series of steps that tell a
computer how to solve
a problem or execute
instructions.
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Operations Guide k-1
prompt A character or series of
characters that appear on
the screen that request
input from the user.
R
random-access The system's high speed
memory (RAM) work area for executing
applications. The com
puter can write infor
mation into or read
information from the
random-access memory.
Random-access memory
is often called RAM.
A type of memory that
(ROM) contains permanent data
or instructions. The com
puter can read from but
not write to the read-only
memory. Read-only mem
ory is often called ROM.
 A-8 Appendix A, Glossary
real time (1) The actual time
required to solve a
problem.
(2) The process of solving
a problem during the
actual time that a related
physical process takes
place so that results
can be used to guide the
physical process.
real-time clock A clock that allows your
programs to use the time
of day and date. Built into
MS-DOS, it allows you to
set the timing of a pro
gram. It can be used to
keep a personal calendar,
and it automatically
measures elapsed time.
scratch diskette A blank formatted diskette
used during testing.
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f
security lock A device used to secure
the computer from data
theft or unauthorized
changes to data.
self-test A program or circuit used
by a device to check its
own operation, usually
when power is first applied.
software A string of instructions
that when executed, direct
the computer to perform
certain functions.
system A collection of hardware,
software, and firmware
that is interconnected to
operate as a unit.
u
upgrade To expand a system by
installing options or using
revised software.
 Operations Guide A-9

utility Computer programs dedi w

cated to one particular
function that are helpful word processing Processing text by per
in using the computer,
forming functions such as
such as FDISK, for set
formatting, paragraphing,
ting up partitions on the justification, arrangement
fixed disk. of pages, moving text,
and printing.
V

video display unit A display monitor and the

(VDU) circuitry that controls it.

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t o

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