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NEC DIRECTION L Service Manual
NEC DIRECTION L Service Manual

NEC DIRECTION L Service Manual

Desktop and minitower pentium ii systems
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PROPRIETARY NOTICE AND LIABILITY DISCLAIMER
The information disclosed in this document, including all designs and related materials, is
the valuable property of NEC Computer Systems Division, Packard Bell NEC, Inc.
(hereinafter "NEC CSD") and/or its licensors. NEC CSD and/or its licensors, as appropri-
ate, reserve all patent, copyright and other proprietary rights to this document, including all
design, manufacturing, reproduction, use, and sales rights thereto, except to the extent said
rights are expressly granted to others.
The NEC CSD product(s) discussed in this document are warranted in accordance with the
terms of the Warranty Statement accompanying each product. However, actual
performance of each such product is dependent upon factors such as system configuration,
customer data, and operator control. Since implementation by customers of each product
may vary, the suitability of specific product configurations and applications must be
determined by the customer and is not warranted by NEC CSD.
To allow for design and specification improvements, the information in this document is
subject to change at any time, without notice. Reproduction of this document or portions
thereof without prior written approval of NEC CSD is prohibited.
Direction is a trademark of Packard Bell NEC, Inc.
NEC and MultiSync are registered trademarks of NEC Corporation, used under license.
All other product, brand, or trade names used in this publication are the trademarks or registered trademarks of their respective trademark
owners.
First Printing — April 1998
Copyright 1998
NEC Computer Systems Division
Packard Bell NEC, Inc.
1414 Massachusetts Avenue
Boxborough, MA 01719-2298
All Rights Reserved

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Summary of Contents for NEC DIRECTION L

  • Page 1 The NEC CSD product(s) discussed in this document are warranted in accordance with the terms of the Warranty Statement accompanying each product. However, actual performance of each such product is dependent upon factors such as system configuration, customer data, and operator control.
  • Page 2: Table Of Contents

    Contents Page Preface......................... Abbreviations....................... xiii Section 1 Technical Information System Board ......................1-4 Processor ......................1-4 System Cache/Memory ..................1-4 Chipset ......................... 1-5 PCI Local Bus ...................... 1-5 Expansion Bus ....................1-6 BIOS ........................1-6 Plug and Play Support..................1-7 CMOS Memory/Real-Time Clock Battery.............
  • Page 3 Contents Getting Help ......................2-4 Main Menu ........................2-5 Floppy Options Submenu ..................2-6 Primary/Secondary IDE Master/Slave Submenus........... 2-7 Advanced Menu......................2-9 Resource Configuration Submenu ................. 2-10 Peripheral Configuration Submenu ................ 2-10 Keyboard Configuration Submenu................. 2-12 Video Configuration Submenu ................2-13 DMI Event Logging Submenu................
  • Page 4 Contents Device Cabling...................... 3-16 Cabling an IDE Device................... 3-16 Cabling an Accessible 5 1/4-Inch Device ............3-17 Storage Device Installation..................3-18 Removing the Front Panel ................3-18 Removing the CD-ROM/DVD Drive.............. 3-18 Installing a 3 1/2-Inch Device ................. 3-19 Installing a 5 1/4-Inch Device ................. 3-23 Replacing the Front Panel................
  • Page 5 Contents System Board Removal..................5-11 Illustrated Parts Breakdown ..................5-11 Appendix A System Specifications Appendix B Connector Pin Assignments Serial Interface Connectors ..................B-4 Parallel Interface Connector ..................B-5 Power Supply (Primary)....................B-6 Keyboard and Mouse Connectors................. B-6 Front Panel ........................B-7 Diskette Drive Interface Pin Assignments..............
  • Page 6 Contents Figure 3-10 IDE Signal Cable ..................3-15 Figure 3-11 Power Cable Connectors................3-15 Figure 3-12 Connecting IDE Device Cables ..............3-16 Figure 3-13 Connecting an Accessible 5 1/4-Inch Device ..........3-17 Figure 3-14 Releasing the Front Panel ................3-18 Figure 3-15 Removing the Device Cage Screw.............
  • Page 7 Table 1-6 DMA Assignments ..................1-9 Table 2-1 Setup Key Functions ..................2-4 Table 3-1 Sample Memory Configurations ..............3-9 Table 4-1 NEC CSD Service and Information Telephone Numbers ......4-1 Table 4-2 Problems and Solutions ................4-5 Table 4-3 Beep Code Descriptions ................4-11 Table 5-1 Disassembly Sequence..................
  • Page 8 Contents Table B-13 ISA Expansion Slot Pin Assignments ............B-12 Table B-14 PCI Expansion Pin Assignments..............B-14 Table B-15 USB Connectors..................B-15 Table C-1 System Board Jumper Settings..............C-3...
  • Page 9 Contents...
  • Page 10: Preface

    Direction L Series, SPL Series, and SP Series systems. The manual includes system setup information, procedures for installing options, and troubleshooting. The manual is written for NEC CSD-trained customer engineers, system analysts, service center personnel, and dealers. The manual is organized as follows: Section 1 —...
  • Page 11: Abbreviations

    xiii Abbreviations ampere DMAC DMA controller alternating current disk operating system advanced technology DRAM dynamic RAM (IBM PC) error checking and correction Bulletin Board Service extended data output binary-coded decimal Enhanced Graphics Adapter BIOS Customized Utility EPROM erasable and programmable BIOS basic input/output system binary digit...
  • Page 12 Abbreviations integrated peripheral controller PLCC plastic leaded chip carrier inches per second phase lock loop interrupt request peak-to-peak kilo (1024) programmable peripheral interface kilo (1000) PROM programmable ROM kilobyte quad flat pack kilogram random-access memory kilohertz RAMDAC RAM digital-to-analog pound converter light-emitting diode row address strobe...
  • Page 13 Abbreviations VESA-compliant feature connector Video Graphics Array VRAM video RAM watt write...
  • Page 14: Technical Information

    Direction SPL233 with 32x CD-ROM drive Direction SPL266 with 32x CD-ROM drive Direction SPL300 with 32x CD-ROM drive Direction SPL333 with 32x CD-ROM drive This section provides an overview of the NEC Direction L Series, SPL Series, and SP ® ® ™...
  • Page 15: Table 1-1 L Series System Features

    Technical Information Table 1-1 L Series System Features Feature Direction 233L Direction 266L Direction 300L Direction 333L Processor Intel Pentium II Intel Pentium II Intel Pentium II Intel Pentium II 233-MHz MMX 266-MHz MMX 300-MHz MMX 333-MHz MMX System 32 MB to 192 MB 32 MB to 192 MB 32 MB to 192 MB 32 MB to 192 MB...
  • Page 16: Table 1-2 Spl Series System Features

    Technical Information Table 1-2 SPL Series System Features Feature Direction SPL233 Direction SPL266 Direction SPL300 Direction SPL333 Processor Intel Pentium II Intel Pentium II Intel Pentium II Intel Pentium II 233-MHz MMX 266-MHz MMX 300-MHz MMX 333-MHz MMX System 32 MB to 192 MB 32 MB to 192 MB 32 MB to 192 MB 32 MB to 192 MB...
  • Page 17: System Board

    Technical Information Table 1-3 SP Series System Features Feature Direction SPL233 Direction SPL266 Direction SPL300 Direction SPL333 Processor Intel Pentium II Intel Pentium II Intel Pentium II Intel Pentium II 233-MHz MMX 266-MHz MMX 300-MHz MMX 333-MHz MMX System 32 MB to 192 MB 32 MB to 192 MB 32 MB to 192 MB 32 MB to 192 MB...
  • Page 18: Chipset

    Technical Information High-performance features include: pipeline 32-bit addressing 64-bit data 512-KB of pipeline burst secondary cache; direct mapped write-back and write-through organization. Depending on the model, the system comes with 32 to 192 MB of main system memory. Three sockets on the system board support up to 384 MB of high-speed memory using industry-standard gold-plated dual in-line memory modules (DIMMs).
  • Page 19: Expansion Bus

    Technical Information The PCI bus contains two embedded PCI devices: the PCI local bus IDE interface and the PCI video/graphics controller. The PCI bus also contains a connector for attaching the bus expansion board. Expansion Bus The expansion bus contains one ISA slot, three PCI slots, one PCI/ISA slot, and one AGP video slot.
  • Page 20: Plug And Play Support

    Technical Information Table 1-4 System Memory Map Memory Address Size Function 100000-18000000 384 MB Extended Memory FC000-FFFFF 16 KB Boot Block FA000-FBFFF 8 KB ECSD (Plug and Play configuration and DMI) F9000-F9FFF 4 KB Reserved for BIOS F8000-F8FFF 4 KB OEM Logo or Scan User Flash E8000-E7FFF 64 KB...
  • Page 21: Cmos Memory/Real-Time Clock Battery

    Technical Information CMOS Memory/Real-Time Clock Battery The 82371AB PCI ISA IDE Xcelerator (PIIX4) on the system board stores system information in non-volatile CMOS memory. The chip also contains the system’s real-time clock. Both are maintained by a 3-volt coin cell lithium battery on the system board. The battery is replaceable.
  • Page 22: Ide Ports

    Technical Information Table 1-6 DMA Assignments Resource Audio Audio/Parallel port Diskette drive ECP parallel port/Audio Reserved, cascade channel Available Available Available IDE Ports The system board provides two IDE ports: a fast IDE port (the primary channel) a standard IDE port (the secondary channel). Each port supports two devices for a total of four IDE devices.
  • Page 23: Sound System

    1-10 Technical Information The two USB ports allow additional new plug and play serial devices without removing the system cover. Simply plug the USB device into the port. The speed varies between 12 megabits per second (Mbps) for printers and 1.5 Mbps for mice and keyboards. Up to 127 USB devices can be connected to the computer.
  • Page 24: Hard Disk Drive

    Technical Information 1-11 HARD DISK DRIVE The system supports up to three IDE hard drives, the standard hard drive, and two optional hard drives (if a Zip drive does not come standard with the system). CD-ROM/DVD DRIVE The drive can be used to load programs from a CD or it can be used to play audio CDs. The drive operates at different speeds depending on whether the CD contains music or data.
  • Page 25: Setup Utility

    Section 2 Setup Utility This section describes the Setup utility program that allows the system configuration information to be viewed and changed. NOTE: The system ships from the factory with the correct system parameters for the configuration. Unless setting the time and date, setting security features, customizing the system, or adding optional hardware, Setup does not need to be run.
  • Page 26: How To Start Setup

    Setup Utility to customize the system with security features such as passwords. to set system parameters after replacing the CMOS battery. HOW TO START SETUP To start the Setup utility, follow these steps: Turn on or reboot the system. Press F2 after POST begins, but before the system boots up. You have about five seconds to press F2.
  • Page 27: How To Use Setup

    Setup Utility HOW TO USE SETUP The Setup utility has a Main Menu window and five top-level menus with submenus. The Main Menu window contains the following areas: A title line the top line of the Main Menu. This line displays the Setup utility name and copyright message.
  • Page 28: Legend Bar

    Setup Utility A Maintenance Menu appears when the system is in configure mode. See Appendix C for information on putting the system in configure mode. This menu allows you to change the processor speed and to clear user and supervisor passwords. To select an option from the menu bar, use the left and right arrow keys.
  • Page 29: Main Menu

    Setup Utility MAIN MENU This section describes the Main Menu parameters. Other menu parameters are available by selecting submenus. Use the arrow keys to move the cursor to a parameter and press Enter to select a submenu. Items with lighter text are not available. Processor Type This field displays your computer’s processor type.
  • Page 30: Floppy Options Submenu

    Setup Utility System Time and Date These two fields specify the correct time and date. To change them, press Tab to highlight the field you want to change, then press the + or – keys to change the setting. Hard Disk Predelay This option keeps BIOS from searching for a drive until the specified predelay time has passed.
  • Page 31: Primary/Secondary Ide Master/Slave Submenus

    Setup Utility The submenus can be used to auto-configure or manually configure the IDE devices, usually hard drives or CD-ROM drives. Depending on the system you purchased, the available options may include “User,” “Auto” (default), “CD-ROM,” “IDE Removable,” “ATAPI Removable” or “None.” The standard hard drive (drive C) shipped with the system is configured as “Primary IDE Master.”...
  • Page 32 Setup Utility Multi Sector Transfers This option determines the number of sectors per block for multiple sector transfers. Like the Cylinders/Heads/Sectors options discussed above, you cannot access this option if the configuration type is set to “Auto.” If necessary, check the specification for your hard drive to determine the best setting for optimum drive performance.
  • Page 33: Advanced Menu

    Setup Utility Ultra DMA This option sets the Ultra DMA Mode for the hard drive. This option cannot be changed when “Auto” is selected. The options include: Mode 0 Mode 1 Mode 2 Disabled (default). To return to the Main Menu, press Esc. To move to the Advanced Menu, press the right arrow key.
  • Page 34: Resource Configuration Submenu

    2-10 Setup Utility Resource Configuration Submenu This option allows you to reserve specific resources for use by legacy ISA devices. To enter the submenu, highlight this field, then press Enter. The following options are displayed: Memory Reservation Submenu This option lets you reserve specific upper memory blocks for use by legacy ISA devices.
  • Page 35 Setup Utility 2-11 WARNING: An asterisk symbol appearing next to an option indicates that the selected IRQ is set to conflict with another device. NOTE: If you select the Enabled option, you can see additional options that allow you to specify the Base I/O address and IRQs for the port you are configuring.
  • Page 36: Keyboard Configuration Submenu

    2-12 Setup Utility Floppy Disk Controller This option configures the system’s diskette drive controller. Select “Enabled” (default) or “Disabled.” IDE Controller This option configures the system’s integrated IDE controller. Select from “Primary,” “Secondary,” “Both” (default) or “Disabled.” To return to the Advanced Menu, press Esc. Keyboard Configuration Submenu This submenu is used to configure specific keyboard features.
  • Page 37: Video Configuration Submenu

    Setup Utility 2-13 Video Configuration Submenu This submenu can be used to configure specific video features. To enter the submenu, highlight the field, then press Enter. The following option appears: Palette Snooping This option controls the ability of a primary PCI graphics controller to share a common palette with an ISA add-in video board.
  • Page 38: Security Menu

    2-14 Setup Utility SECURITY MENU The Security Menu can be used to set a user password and/or a supervisor password. A User Password controls access to the system and Setup Utility program at boot up. If the User Password feature has been enabled, you need to enter your User password correctly whenever you boot the system before you can use it.
  • Page 39: Boot Menu

    Setup Utility 2-15 BOOT MENU The Boot Menu can be used to adjust the system’s boot features. The Boot Menu features the following options: Restore on AC/Power Loss This option specifies whether or not to restore power to the computer if it is turned on and there is a power failure.
  • Page 40: Removable Drive Submenu

    2-16 Setup Utility Removable Drive Submenu This submenu lists any available removable drives (if included). One common option is Legacy Floppy Drives. The operating system assigns drive letters to these devices in the order listed. You can change the sequence (and drive lettering) by highlighting this field and pressing Enter.
  • Page 41: Option Installation

    Section 3 Option Installation This section provides instructions for installing the following options: expansion boards DIMM memory upgrade video upgrade — see the documentation for your video board data storage devices external options. All options (except external options) require the removal of the access cover. Procedures for removing the cover are included in this section.
  • Page 42: Precautions

    Option Installation PRECAUTIONS Take care when working inside the system and when handling computer components. Avoid electric shock or personal injury by observing the following warning. WARNING: Before removing the access cover, turn off the power and unplug the system power cable.
  • Page 43: Removing The Access Cover

    Option Installation REMOVING THE ACCESS COVER The following subsections describe how to remove the access cover from the desktop or minitower system. WARNING: Before removing the access cover, turn off the power and unplug the system power cable. Power is removed only when the power cable is unplugged.
  • Page 44: Replacing The Access Cover

    Option Installation Figure 3-1 Releasing the Cover Lift the access cover off the system. REPLACING THE ACCESS COVER To replace the access cover, use the following procedure. Gently set the access cover inside the edge of the case, taking care not to bend the metal tabs.
  • Page 45: Expansion Boards

    Option Installation Slide the access cover forward to meet the front panel. Tighten the thumb screw. NOTE: The cover fits tightly. If it does not slide all the way to the front panel, place one hand on the front of the unit while you slide the cover forward from the rear.
  • Page 46: Expansion Board Installation

    Option Installation Figure 3-3 Locating Expansion Slots Expansion Board Installation Install expansion boards in the system as follows. Remove the access cover. Follow any preinstallation instructions that come with the expansion board (such as setting switches or jumpers on the board). Remove the screw securing an expansion slot cover and remove the cover.
  • Page 47: Expansion Board Removal

    Option Installation Save the screw for installing the expansion board. Be sure to save the slot cover for future use. CAUTION: A slot cover can damage the system board or any option board if it falls into the system. Take care to keep the slot cover from falling when removing the screw.
  • Page 48 Option Installation Non-Error Correcting and Checking (64-bit) and ECC (72-bit) DIMMs are both supported. When ECC memory is installed, the BIOS automatically detects its presence and offers the Setup option to enable ECC mode. NOTE: Although memory size and type may vary, the SDRAM DIMMs must meet the Intel 4-clock, 66-MHz, unbuffered SDRAM DIMM specification for either 64-bit or 72-bit SDRAM.
  • Page 49: Dimm Removal

    Option Installation Table 3-1 Sample Memory Configurations Bank 0 Bank 1 Bank 2 Total RAM 1 M x 64 (8 MB) Empty (0 MB) Empty (0 MB) 8 MB (min. memory) Empty (0 MB) 4 M x 64 (32 MB) 8 M x 64 (64MB) 96 MB 16 M x 64 (128 MB)
  • Page 50: Dimm Installation

    3-10 Option Installation Figure 3-5 Removing a DIMM Store the DIMM in an antistatic bag (available at electronic supply stores) or a cardboard box. DIMM Installation Use the following procedure to install a DIMM. Remove the access cover. Locate the DIMM sockets. Remove any currently-installed DIMMs that are not needed.
  • Page 51: Video Upgrade

    Option Installation 3-11 Figure 3-6 Installing a DIMM Replace any cables or boards that may have been removed. Replace the access cover. VIDEO UPGRADE Your computer comes with an AGP video board. See your video board’s documentation for information on upgrade capabilities. DATA STORAGE DEVICES The system board in your computer supports the following storage devices: two diskette drives, including the standard 1.44-MB diskette drive and a tape...
  • Page 52: Device Preparation

    3-12 Option Installation four accessible device slots two accessible 5.25-inch device slots (one contains the standard CD-ROM drive) two 3.5-inch device slots; the lower 3.5-inch slot is not accessible on the desktop model. Figure 3-7 shows the device slot locations in the system. Figure 3-7 Locating Device Slots Device Preparation Before installing a storage device in the system, follow any preinstallation instructions that...
  • Page 53: Device Cables

    Option Installation 3-13 SCSI device — The last SCSI device connected to the system (internally or externally) must have a termination resistor, either installed manually or set automatically if the device is self-terminating. Check the manufacturer’s documentation. Installation hardware — check to be certain you have the screws necessary to secure the drive in an accessible drive slot.
  • Page 54: Figure 3-9 Diskette Drive Signal Cable

    3-14 Option Installation Depending on the model, installation of a second 5 1/4-inch accessible device may require the replacement of the existing diskette drive signal cable with a three-connector cable. Connect an optional device to the middle connector on the three-connector diskette drive signal cable.
  • Page 55: System Power Cables

    Option Installation 3-15 Figure 3-10 IDE Signal Cable System Power Cables Power cables come from the power supply and are attached to the standard storage devices. System power cables vary in length and provide connector sizes to accommodate a variety of supported storage configurations.
  • Page 56: Device Cabling

    3-16 Option Installation Device Cabling All storage devices require a power and signal cable connection. Devices shipped with the system are already connected. Cable optional devices as follows. Cabling an IDE Device Connect the IDE signal cable connector to the connector on the IDE device. Take care to prevent bending drive connector pins.
  • Page 57: Cabling An Accessible 5 1/4-Inch Device

    Option Installation 3-17 Cabling an Accessible 5 1/4-Inch Device Connect the diskette drive signal cable connector to the signal connector on the device (see Figure 3-13). Locate an available power connector. Connect the power cable to the power connector on the device. Figure 3-13 Connecting an Accessible 5 1/4-Inch Device...
  • Page 58: Storage Device Installation

    3-18 Option Installation Storage Device Installation The following subsections describe how to install 3 1/2-inch and 5 1/4-inch devices. The installation procedures include: removing the front panel removing the CD-ROM/DVD drive installing a 3 1/2-inch device installing a 5 1/4-inch device replacing the front panel.
  • Page 59: Installing A 3 1/2-Inch Device

    Option Installation 3-19 Locate the screw on the front of the system between the 3.5-inch blank panel and diskette drive. Remove the screw. Figure 3-15 Removing the Device Cage Screw Slide the cage towards the front of the system and lift it out of the unit. Installing a 3 1/2-Inch Device Use the following procedure to install a 3 1/2-inch device.
  • Page 60 3-20 Option Installation Figure 3-16 Locating Device Slots If you are installing the device in the second 3 1/2-inch internal device slot, Remove the two screws securing the 3 1/2-inch hard disk bracket to the front of the system unit. Figure 3-17 Removing the Bracket Screws...
  • Page 61 Option Installation 3-21 Slide the 3 1/2-inch hard disk bracket towards the back of the system unit until it is free of the molded plastic. Align the two screw holes on the hard disk with the two tabs on the bracket.
  • Page 62 3-22 Option Installation Figure 3-20 Inserting the Device If you are installing the device in an accessible slot, go to step 6. To install a 3 1/2-inch device in an accessible slot: Remove the plastic blank panel from the selected slot by pressing the panel tab inward and swinging the blank panel out (see Figure 3-21).
  • Page 63: Installing A 5 1/4-Inch Device

    Option Installation 3-23 Use a screw driver to remove the metal slot cover by carefully pressing it until it breaks away from the chassis. Be careful of sharp edges! Slide the device into the slot and secure the device. Connect the device cables (see “Cabling an IDE Device”). Replace the front panel.
  • Page 64: Replacing The Front Panel

    3-24 Option Installation Secure the device with the screws that came with the device (see Figure 3-22). Figure 3-22 Installing the Device NOTE: If you removed the accessible device cage, replace it. Secure the device cage with the screw. If you installed a hard drive in the 5 1/4-inch slot, replace the plastic panel. Replace the front panel.
  • Page 65: Adding External Options

    Option Installation 3-25 ADDING EXTERNAL OPTIONS External connectors on the back of the system unit allow for a variety of industry-standard options. This subsection provides the installation procedures for the most commonly used external options, which are as follows: parallel printer serial devices.
  • Page 66 3-26 Option Installation Turn on the printer and the computer. Figure 3-23 Locating the Parallel Port...
  • Page 67: Rs-232C Device Connection

    Option Installation 3-27 RS-232C Device Connection NOTE: Before connecting a serial device to the system, be sure the serial device is set up correctly. Follow the setup instructions that come with the option. Turn off power to the system and to the serial device. Connect one end of the serial cable to one of the COM ports on the rear of the computer (see Figure 3-24).
  • Page 68: Maintenance And Troubleshooting

    Maintenance and Troubleshooting This section provides information on maintaining and troubleshooting the Direction Series computers. Table 4-1 provides the NEC CSD service telephone numbers. Also included in this section are the error beep code descriptions and a procedure for replacing the CMOS battery.
  • Page 69: Maintenance

    Maintenance and Troubleshooting MAINTENANCE This subsection contains general information for cleaning and checking the system, keyboard, and monitor. The system, keyboard, and monitor require cleaning and checking at least once a year, and more often if operating in a dusty environment. No other scheduled maintenance or lubrication is required.
  • Page 70: Keyboard Cleaning

    Maintenance and Troubleshooting Keyboard Cleaning As necessary, inspect and clean the inside of the keyboard as follows. Remove the eight screws holding the keyboard enclosure together. NOTE: The keyboard and cable together are considered a whole-unit, field-replaceable assembly. Therefore, disassembly of the keyboard is necessary only when cleaning the inside.
  • Page 71 Maintenance and Troubleshooting Turn the ball cover clockwise and remove the cover. Figure 4-1 Removing the Mouse Ball Cover Turn the mouse over and remove the ball. Clean the mouse as follows: Clean the mouse ball with tap water and a mild detergent, then dry it with a lint-free cloth.
  • Page 72: Troubleshooting

    Maintenance and Troubleshooting TROUBLESHOOTING This subsection provides information that helps isolate and repair system malfunctions at the field level. Step-by-step instructions for diagnosing and solving system hardware problems are provided. Technical support is available at 1-888-632-2678. If disassembly is required, see Section 5. Connector pin assignments are given in Appendix B.
  • Page 73 Maintenance and Troubleshooting Table 4-2 Problems and Solutions Problem Symptom Solution Operating system Intermittent beeping at power- 1. Check system configuration (see does not boot on. Computer beeps more than Section 2). once and is unable to complete bootup. 2. Check all jumper settings and verify that drives are enabled (see appendices and Section 2).
  • Page 74 Maintenance and Troubleshooting Table 4-2 Problems and Solutions Problem Symptom Solution Hard drive Hard drive lamp does not light 1. Check cable connections between malfunction but hard drive can be lamp and system board. accessed. Hard drive controller failure 1. Check that the IDE port and hard message displayed.
  • Page 75 Maintenance and Troubleshooting Table 4-2 Problems and Solutions Problem Symptom Solution Monitor Unable to synchronize display. 1. Adjust the monitor’s synchronization malfunction controls. 2. Check that the monitor’s resolution matches the video setting or the video driver used. 3. Check that the utility is not selecting a refresh rate/resolution that is not supported by the monitor.
  • Page 76 Maintenance and Troubleshooting Table 4-2 Problems and Solutions Problem Symptom Solution CD-ROM/DVD System power not on. 1. Turn system power on. drive malfunction Disc tray does not open. 1. System power not on. Turn system power on. 2. System power failed. Insert about an inch of a straightened paper clip into the emergency eject hole, until the tray opens.
  • Page 77 4-10 Maintenance and Troubleshooting Table 4-2 Problems and Solutions Problem Symptom Solution 4. Check the IDE cable. Replace as necessary. 5. Check the power supply. Replace as necessary. 6. Check the system board. Replace as necessary. Communication No or bad data when 1.
  • Page 78: Beep Codes

    Maintenance and Troubleshooting 4-11 Beep Codes During boot up, the computer performs a series of POST (Power On Self Test) routines. A beep code may appear when an error is detected. There are fatal and nonfatal errors. The fatal errors include BIOS, CMOS, DMA, RAM, video, and keyboard controller errors. The nonfatal errors include timer tick interrupt, shutdown test, unexpected interrupt in protected mode, gate A20, RAM test, interval timer channel 2 test, clock, serial and parallel port test, math co-processor, system board select, and extended CMOS RAM.
  • Page 79 4-12 Maintenance and Troubleshooting Locate the battery and its socket on the system board (see Figure 4-2). Figure 4-2 Locating the Battery Use fingers to carefully pull the battery up until it is clear to slide the battery out of the socket. WARNING: The battery can explode if it is incorrectly replaced or improperly discarded.
  • Page 80: Disassembly And Reassembly

    Section 5 Disassembly and Reassembly This section contains step-by-step disassembly procedures for the system unit. Reassembly is the reverse of disassembly. The procedures are supported by simplified disassembly illustrations to facilitate removal. A Phillips-head screwdriver is the only required tool. For complete disassembly of the system unit, follow the disassembly order listed intable 5-1.
  • Page 81: Disassembly

    Disassembly and Reassembly When disassembling the system unit, follow these general rules. Disconnect all peripherals. When handling boards or chips, touch the system unit frame to discharge static. Do not disassemble parts other than those specified in the procedure. Use a Phillips-head screw driver, unless otherwise specified. Label all removed connectors.
  • Page 82: Front Panel Removal

    Disassembly and Reassembly Figure 5-1 Removing a Board Front Panel Removal Remove the front panel from the system unit as follows. Locate the two plastic tabs at the front of the chassis. They are indicated by two arrows engraved on the chassis. Press down on the two tabs and press in a third tab at the end of the panel to release the panel (see Figure 5-2).
  • Page 83: Side Panel Removal

    Disassembly and Reassembly Side Panel Removal Remove the side panel from the system unit as follows. Remove the system access cover and front panel as previously described. Locate the two side panel securing tabs at the front of the system. Pull the tabs out and away from the system.
  • Page 84: 1/4-Inch Device Removal

    Disassembly and Reassembly Locate the two clips at the front of the system that secure the diskette drive. Figure 5-4 Locating the Two Diskette Drive Clips Squeeze the two clips and pull the diskette drive out of the front of the system. 5 1/4-Inch Device Removal Remove an optional 5 1/4-inch device from the system unit as follows.
  • Page 85: Optional 3 1/2-Inch Hard Disk Drive Removal

    Disassembly and Reassembly Remove the screws holding the device in the cage (see Figure 5-5). Figure 5-5 Removing the 5 1/4-Inch Device Screws Slide the device out from the front of the system unit. Optional 3 1/2-Inch Hard Disk Drive Removal Remove the optional 3 1/2-inch hard disk drive as follows.
  • Page 86 Disassembly and Reassembly Figure 5-6 The 3 1/2-Inch Device Bracket Screws Slide the 3 1/2-inch hard disk drive towards the back of the system unit until it is free of the molded plastic. Remove the screw on the side of the hard disk securing it to the bracket. Figure 5-7 Removing the Securing Screw Slowly pull the hard disk away from the bracket and lift the disk out of the two securing tabs on the opposite side of the bracket.
  • Page 87: Standard 3 1/2-Inch Hard Disk Drive Removal

    Disassembly and Reassembly Standard 3 1/2-Inch Hard Disk Drive Removal Remove the standard 3 1/2-inch hard disk drive as follows. Remove the system access cover and front panel as previously described. Unplug the hard disk drive power and signal cables from the optional hard disk drive.
  • Page 88: Dimm Module Removal

    Disassembly and Reassembly DIMM Module Removal Remove any optional DIMM modules from the system board as follows. Remove the system access cover and any expansion boards as previously described. Press the locking clips at the ends of the socket away from the DIMM memory module (see Figure 5-9).
  • Page 89: Power Supply Removal

    5-10 Disassembly and Reassembly Power Supply Removal Remove the power supply as follows. Remove the system access cover as previously described. Label and unplug the power cable attached to the system board. Label and unplug the power cables from all installed devices. At the back of the system unit, remove the two screws securing the power supply to the system unit (see Figure 5-10).
  • Page 90: System Board Removal

    Reinstall the DIMMs on the new board. ILLUSTRATED PARTS BREAKDOWN This section contains the illustrated parts breakdown (IPB) and NEC CSD part numbers for the Direction L Series, SPL Series, and SP Series desktop and minitower computers. Table 5-2 lists the field-replaceable parts for the L Series desktop and Figure 5-12 provides the illustrated parts breakdown.
  • Page 91: Table 5-2 Direction L Series Desktop Field-Replaceable Parts List

    5-12 Disassembly and Reassembly Table 5-4 lists the field-replaceable parts for the SPL Series and SP Series desktop and Figure 5-14 provides the illustrated parts breakdown. Table 5-5 lists the field replaceable parts for the SPL Series and SP Series minitower and Figure 5-15 provides the illustrated parts breakdown.
  • Page 92 Disassembly and Reassembly 5-13 Table 5-2 Direction L Series Desktop Field-Replaceable Parts List* Item Description Part Number Right side cover 158-056681-000 Power supply - Sparkle 190300 Altec Lansing speakers, ACS90 160312 Altec Lansing speakers, ACS45 160314 Altec Lansing speakers, ACS410 160313 Altec Lansing subwoofer, ACS251 (for ACS410) 160315...
  • Page 93 CD, Restore Pkg., Windows 95 systems only 165326-08 (not shown in figure) Battery (not shown in figure) 158-060367-000 Monitor, NEC 15”, C550 (not shown in figure) 011001 Monitor, NEC 17”, C700 (not shown in figure) 011002 Cable, CD-ROM, audio (not shown in figure)
  • Page 94 Disassembly and Reassembly 5-15 Figure 5-12 Direction L Series Desktop Illustrated Parts Breakdown* ____________ * This data was prepared June 1998. For an up-to-date listing of spare parts, please call FaxFlash 1-888-329-0088 (or 1-978-635-6090 outside the U.S.) and order document 42102018.
  • Page 95: Table 5-3 Direction L Series Minitower Field-Replaceable Parts List

    5-16 Disassembly and Reassembly Table 5-3 Direction L Series Minitower Field-Replaceable Parts List* Item Description Part Number AC power cable 070135 Microphone 232-00011 Microsoft Mouse 230-00025 Keyboard, Egro 229-00012 Cable, audio internal, dual MPC 070808 Diskette drive signal cable 070114 IDE signal cable 233-00026 SCSI cable...
  • Page 96 Disassembly and Reassembly 5-17 Table 5-3 Direction L Series Minitower Field-Replaceable Parts List* Item Description Part Number Power supply -Sparkle 190300 Fan assembly 158-056683-000 Altec Lansing speakers, ACS90 160312 Altec Lansing speakers, ACS45 160314 Altec Lansing speakers, ACS410 160313 Altec Lansing subwoofer, ACS251 (for ACS410) 160315 Left side cover (access cover) 158-056686-000...
  • Page 97 System power switch (not shown in figure) 130047 Phone cable, modem (not shown in figure) 158-050519-001 Monitor, NEC 15”, C550 (not shown in figure) 011001 Monitor, NEC 17”, C700 (not shown in figure) 011002 Card, sound wavetable OPL4 (not shown in...
  • Page 98 Disassembly and Reassembly 5-19 Figure 5-13 Direction L Series Minitower Illustrated Parts Breakdown* ____________ * This data was prepared June 1998. For an up-to-date listing of spare parts, please call FaxFlash 1-888-329-0088 (or 1-978-635-6090 outside the U.S.) and order document 42102018.
  • Page 99: Table 5-4 Direction Spl And Sp Series Desktop Field-Replaceable Parts List

    5-20 Disassembly and Reassembly Table 5-4 Direction SPL and SP Series Desktop Field-Replaceable Parts List* Item Description Part Number Keyboard, Ergonomic 229-00012 24x CD-ROM drive 730302-02 32x CD-ROM drive (certain models) 730330 Ditto 3200 tape drive, backup 320547 Seagate tape drive, CTT800I-S 320545 SCSI tape backup unit, Seagate CTD8000R-S 320705...
  • Page 100 Disassembly and Reassembly 5-21 Table 5-4 Direction SPL and SP Series Desktop Field-Replaceable Parts List* Item Description Part Number Altec Lansing speakers, ACS45 160314 Altec Lansing speakers, ACS410 160313 Altec Lansing subwoofer, ACS251 (for ACS410) 160315 Fan assembly 158-056683-000 Video board, #9 Revolution 3D, AGP 060201 Video board, #9 Reality 334, AGP 060215...
  • Page 101 CD, Restore Pkg., Windows 95 systems only 165326-08 (not shown in figure) Battery (not shown in figure) 158-060367-000 Monitor, NEC 15”, C550 (not shown in figure) 011001 Monitor, NEC 17”, C700 (not shown in figure) 011002 Cable, CD-ROM, audio (not shown in figure)
  • Page 102 Disassembly and Reassembly 5-23 Figure 5-14 Direction SPL and SP Series Desktop Illustrated Parts Breakdown* ____________ * This data was prepared June 1998. For an up-to-date listing of spare parts, please call FaxFlash 1-888-329-0088 (or 1-978-635-6090 outside the U.S.) and order document 42102018.
  • Page 103: Table 5-5 Direction Spl And Sp Series Minitower Field-Replaceable Parts List

    5-24 Disassembly and Reassembly Table 5-5 Direction SPL and SP Series Minitower Field-Replaceable Parts List* Item Description Part Number AC power cable 070135 Microphone 232-00011 Microsoft Mouse 230-00025 Keyboard, Ergonomic 229-00012 Cable, audio internal, dual MPC 070808 Diskette drive signal cable 070114 IDE signal cable 233-00026...
  • Page 104 Disassembly and Reassembly 5-25 Table 5-5 Direction SPL and SP Series Minitower Field-Replaceable Parts List* Item Description Part Number Fan assembly 158-056683-000 Altec Lansing speakers, ACS90 160312 Altec Lansing speakers, ACS45 160314 Altec Lansing speakers, ACS410 160313 Altec Lansing subwoofer, ACS251 (for ACS410) 160315 Left side cover (access cover) 158-056686-000...
  • Page 105 CD, Restore Pkg., Windows 95 systems only 165326-08 (not shown in figure) Battery (not shown in figure) 158-060367-000 Monitor, NEC 15”, C550 (not shown in figure) 011001 Monitor, NEC 17”, C700 (not shown in figure) 011002 Cable, CD-ROM, audio (not shown in figure)
  • Page 106 Disassembly and Reassembly 5-27 Figure 5-15 Direction SPL and SP Series Minitower Illustrated Parts Breakdown* ____________ * This data was prepared June 1998. For an up-to-date listing of spare parts, please call FaxFlash 1-888-329-0088 (or 1-978-635-6090 outside the U.S.) and order document 42102018.
  • Page 107: Table 5-6 Memory Options

    5-28 Disassembly and Reassembly Table 5-6 lists memory options. Table 5-6 Memory Options Description Part Number 16-MB DIMM (non-parity) 81780 32-MB DIMM (non-parity) 81779 64-MB DIMM (non-parity) 81794 Table 5-7 lists the Direction Series documentation. Table 5-7 Direction Series Documentation* Description Part Number Direction Series User’s Guide...
  • Page 108: Appendix A System Specifications

    Appendix A System Specifications This section describes the system specifications. Processor Microprocessor 233-MHz, 266-MHz, 300-MHz, or 333-MHz Pentium II MMX Clock Rate 200 MHz internally, 66 MHz externally 233 MHz internally, 66 MHz externally 300 MHz internally, 66 MHz externally 333 MHz internally, 66 MHz externally Processor Support 32-bit addressing...
  • Page 109 System Specifications The top bar is snapped into rigid pins after the processor subsystem (with heatsink) is inserted into the slot 1 connector and RM. Random Access Memory (RAM) Standard RAM 32 MB to 192 MB of SDRAM installed in industry-standard DIMM sockets on system board Total Memory support for up to 384 MB of high-speed SDRAM...
  • Page 110 System Specifications Keyboard PS/2-compatible, 6-pin connector (mini DIN) Mouse PS/2 compatible, 6-pin connector (mini DIN) dual IDE channels one fast IDE and one standard IDE channel CD-ROM drive and hard drive on separate channels support for up to 10 MB/second 32-bit transfers on PCI bus support for a total of four IDE devices;...
  • Page 111 System Specifications Storage Devices Accessible Devices 3 1/2-inch, 1.44-MB diskette drive CD-ROM/DVD drive Zip Drive Iomega Zip 100 ATA drive on some systems; removable 100-MB data disks; data transfer rate up to 1.4 MB per second Device Slots Seven device slots: a 3.5-inch accessible device slot contains the standard 1.44-MB diskette drive one internal 3.5-inch hard drive slot for the hard drive, a second internal 3.5-inch hard drive slot is available...
  • Page 112 System Specifications Sound System Audio integrated on system board based on Yamaha OPL3-SA3 and OPL4-ML (in some systems) Compatible with Sound Blaster Pro™, Sound Blaster™ 2.0, Ad Lib™, MPU-401, and Microsoft Windows Sound System™ for PC sound applications ® Stereo jacks microphone in, line in, line out Built-in 16-bit sigma-delta stereo CODEC Dual DMA channel and built-in FIFOs for full duplex simultaneous playback and...
  • Page 113 System Specifications Keyboard Height 1.6 in. (4.1 cm) Width 19.0 in. (48.3 cm) Depth 8.4 in. (21.3 cm) Weight The following weights are averages. Weights depend upon the system configuration. System Unit 27.5 lb (12.46 kg) Keyboard 3.5 to 4 lb (1.6 to 1.8 kg) Power Universal Power Supply 235 W...
  • Page 114: Appendix B Connector Pin Assignments

    Appendix B Connector Pin Assignments This appendix describes the system board connector pin assignments. Table B-1 lists the connectors and sockets on the system board. The table also cross- references the page numbers where the connectors and their pinouts are described. Table B-2 and Table B-3 list each connector by its function, number, and type.
  • Page 115 Connector Pin Assignments Figure B-1 System Board Connectors and Slots Figure B-2 System Board External Connectors...
  • Page 116: Table B-2 System Board Internal Connectors

    Connector Pin Assignments Table B-2 System Board Internal Connectors Description Connector Number CD-ROM Audio J1F1 Line-in Audio J2F2 Telephony J2F1 Fan 3 J5L1 Diskette Drive J8K1 PCI IDE J8H1, J7H1 Fan 1 J8M1 Fan 2 J3F1 Power Supply J7L1 Table B-3 System Board Connector Numbers and Types Function Number Type...
  • Page 117: Serial Interface Connectors

    Connector Pin Assignments SERIAL INTERFACE CONNECTORS Pin assignments for the serial interface port connector are listed in Table-B-4. Table-B-4 RS-232C Serial Port Connector Pin Assignments Signal Description Carrier detect Serial In# Receive data Serial Out# Transmit data DTR# Data terminal ready Ground Signal ground Data set ready...
  • Page 118: Parallel Interface Connector

    Connector Pin Assignments PARALLEL INTERFACE CONNECTOR Parallel interface specifications for this port conform to the IBM-PC interface. Pin assignments for the parallel interface connector are listed in Table B-5. Table B-5 Parallel Port Connector Pin Assignments Signal Signal Strobe# Auto feed# Data bit 0 Fault# Data bit 1...
  • Page 119: Power Supply (Primary

    Connector Pin Assignments POWER SUPPLY (PRIMARY) Voltages from the power supply are input to the system board through the primary power supply connector. Table B-6 shows the connector pin locations and pin assignments. Table B-6 Primary Power Supply Connector Pin Assignments Signal Signal +3.3 V...
  • Page 120: Front Panel

    Connector Pin Assignments FRONT PANEL The front panel connector provides cabling for the buttons and panel LEDs (power and hard disk). The connector pin assignments are given in Table B-8. Table B-8 Front Panel Connector Pin Assignments Signal Description SW_ON# Power On Ground SLEEP...
  • Page 121: Diskette Drive Interface Pin Assignments

    Connector Pin Assignments DISKETTE DRIVE INTERFACE PIN ASSIGNMENTS Table B-9 provides the pin assignments for the diskette drive interface connector. Table B-9 Diskette Drive Connector Pin Assignments Description Description Ground DENSEL Ground Reserved FDEDIN Ground FDINDX# (Index) Ground FDM00# (Motor enable A) Ground FDDS1# (Drive select B) Ground...
  • Page 122: Ide Interface Connectors

    Connector Pin Assignments IDE INTERFACE CONNECTORS All signal levels in the IDE interface are TTL compatible. A logic 1 is a signal whose voltage level is between 2.0 and 5.0 V. A logic 0 is a signal measuring between 0.00 V and 0.70 V.
  • Page 123: Dimm Sockets

    B-10 Connector Pin Assignments DIMM SOCKETS Table B-11 provides the DIMM type, configuration, and technology by DIMM size. Table B-11 DIMM Socket Pin Assignments Description Description Description Description 127 V DQ32 128 CKE0 DQ33 129 NC DQM2 DQ34 130 DQM6 DQM3 DQ35 131 DQM7...
  • Page 124: Agp Connector

    Connector Pin Assignments B-11 AGP CONNECTOR Table B-12 provides the pin assignments for the AGP slot. Table B-12 AGP Connector Pin Assignments Description Description Pin Description Description No connect +12V Vcc3.3 B34 Vcc3.3 No connect AGP_AD22 B35 AGP_AD21 Reserved AGP_AD20 B36 AGP_AD19 No connect No connect...
  • Page 125: Isa Expansion Bus Connector Pin Assignments

    B-12 Connector Pin Assignments ISA EXPANSION BUS CONNECTOR PIN ASSIGNMENTS The expansion slots signals, voltages, and grounds are supplied through the bus connectors. Table B-13 provides the pin assignments for the ISA expansion slots. Table B-13 ISA Expansion Slot Pin Assignments Direction Signal Direction...
  • Page 126 Connector Pin Assignments B-13 Table B-13 ISA Expansion Slot Pin Assignments Direction Signal Direction Signal Input/Output Output Input/Output Ground Input/Output SBHE# Input MEMCS16# (M16#) Input/Output LA23 Input IOCS16# (IO16#) Input/Output LA22 Input IRQ10 Input/Output LA21 Input IRQ11 Input/Output LA20 Input IRQ12 Input/Output LA19...
  • Page 127: Pci Expansion Bus Connector Pin Assignments

    B-14 Connector Pin Assignments PCI EXPANSION BUS CONNECTOR PIN ASSIGNMENTS The expansion slots signals, voltages, and grounds are supplied through the bus connectors. Table B-14 provides the pin assignments for the PCI expansion slots. Table B-14 PCI Expansion Pin Assignments Signal Signal Signal...
  • Page 128: Universal Serial Bus (Usb) Connectors

    Connector Pin Assignments B-15 UNIVERSAL SERIAL BUS (USB) CONNECTORS Table B-15 lists the pin assignments and signal names for the USB connectors. Table B-15 USB Connectors Signal Name Power USBP0# (USBP1#) USBP0 (USBP1) Ground...
  • Page 129: Appendix C System Resources

    Appendix C System Resources The following sections include information about: default system settings viewing system resources jumper settings on the system board. IRQ SETTINGS The following settings are the default IRQ settings: IRQ0 (timer) IRQ1 (keyboard) IRQ2 (cascade interrupt) IRQ3 (COM2) IRQ4 (COM1) IRQ5 (LPT2) IRQ6 (diskette drive)
  • Page 130: Viewing System Resources

    System Resources VIEWING SYSTEM RESOURCES Some hardware option installations might require system resources such as interrupt request (IRQ) lines, direct memory access (DMA) channels, and input/output (I/O) addresses. See the following procedures to view system resources. Follow these steps to view system resources: From the Windows 95 desktop, click the “My Computer”...
  • Page 131: Clearing Your Password

    System Resources Table C-1 System Board Jumper Settings Function Jumper J8B2 Configuration Normal The BIOS uses current configuration information and passwords for booting. Configure After POST, Setup runs automatically. The Maintenance Menu appears. Recovery None BIOS attempts to recover the BIOS configuration.
  • Page 132: Recovering The Bios

    System Resources Power off, unplug the system and monitor, and remove the access cover. Remove the jumper block from pins 2-3 and replace it on pins 1-2. If you removed any expansion boards, replace them (see Section 3, “Expansion Board Installation”). Replace the access cover.
  • Page 133 System Resources If you removed any expansion boards, replace them (see Section 3, “Expansion Board Installation”). Replace the access cover. Reconnect the system power cables and peripheral devices. Power on the system. Run Setup (see Section 2).
  • Page 134 Index side panel, 5-4 standard 3 1/2-inch hard drive, 5-8 system board, 5-11 BIOS recovery, C-4 system unit, 5-2 CD-ROM/DVD drive, 1-11 Expansion board Checking hard disk drive parameters, 2-7 removal, 3-7 CMOS battery, 4-11 Expansion board installation, 3-5 replacement, 4-11 External options, 3-25 Configurations, 1-1 parallel printer, 3-25...
  • Page 135 System unit disassembly, 5-2 CD-ROM /DVD drive, 1-11 5 1/4-inch device, 5-5 DIMM module, 5-9 expansion board, 5-2 NEC CSD telephone numbers, 4-1 front panel, 5-3 optional 3 1/2-inch hard disk drive, Operation, 2-1 power supply, 5-10 Option installation, 3-1...
  • Page 136 (For United States Use Only) FEDERAL COMMUNICATIONS COMMISSION RADIO FREQUENCY INTERFERENCE STATEMENT WARNING: Changes or modifications to this unit not expressly approved by the party responsible for compliance could void the user’s authority to operate the equipment. NOTE: This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class B digital device, pursuant to Part 15 of the FCC Rules.
  • Page 137 Division or an NEC CSD Authorized Service Center. It is the responsibility of users requiring service to report the need for service to NEC Computer Systems Division or to an NEC CSD Authorized Service Center. Service can be obtained at:...
  • Page 138 BATTERY REPLACEMENT A lithium battery in your computer maintains system configuration information. In the event that the battery fails to maintain system configuration information, NEC CSD recommends that you replace the battery (see Section 4, “Maintenance and Troubleshooting,” for battery removal procedures).
  • Page 139 BATTERY DISPOSAL Do not place used batteries in your regular trash. The nickel-cadmium or nickel metal-hydride batteries must be collected, recycled, or disposed of in an environmentally-approved manner. The incineration, landfilling, or mixing of batteries with the municipal solid waste stream is prohibited by law in most areas.

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