North Star Advantage User Manual
Contents
1. 5 Figure 3 3 The next day insert the B diskette in your ADVANTAGE and make all additions or revisions to that version At the end of the day copy version B onto another scratch diskette and label this third copy C The next day do all your work on version C At the end of the day copy your results back onto the diskette containing version A Continue on through this cycle working on and updating each diskette in turn There is a major advantage to this method At any given time you have three diskettes contain ing some version of the same material If only two versions exist you run a risk that both can be lost since both must be present in the computer simultaneously when you copy from one diskette to the other If a power transient or program failure occurs while you are copying then both versions may be destroyed If a third copy exists you can use it to recover your data Whatever method you prefer develop and use a systematic backup procedure Protect your financial investment in your programs and the effort and energy your data represent by taking the time to copy your diskettes regularly ADVANTAGE User Manual 3 1 5 Write Protect Tab A system diskette contains a complex structure of code that has been carefully prepared by North Star Computers Inc or another software manufacturer Usually this code cannot be altered and continue to work properly unless the modifications2. NorthStar ADVANTAGE INTRODUCTION TO THE ADVANTAGE 1 1 1 2 1 3 1 4 1 5 1 6 THE NORTH STAR ADVANTAGE WARRANTY ADVANTAGE CONFIGURATION 1 31 Video Screen 1 3 2 Keyboard 1 3 3 Disk Drives 1 3 4 Diskettes 1 3 5 Demonstration Diagnostic Diskette SOFTWARE FOR THE ADVANTAGE 1 4 1 Operating Systems 1 4 2 Languages and Application Programs LINE PRINTER USING THIS MANUAL ADVANTAGE OPERATION 2 6 2 7 START UP DISK DRIVE UTILIZATION INSERTING DISKETTES LOADING THE SYSTEM STANDARD KEY FUNCTIONS 2 Conventional Typewriter Keys 2 5 2 Numeric Pad Keys 2 5 3 Cursor Control Keys 2 5 4 Program Control Keys 29 Function Keys RESET 2 6 1 Keyboard Reset 2 6 2 Push Button Reset ENDING A WORK SESSION RECOMMENDED PROCEDURES 3 1 3 2 DISKETTE CARE 30 1 Inserting and Removing Diskettes 3 1 2 Backing Up Diskettes 3 1 3 Copying System Diskettes 3 1 4 Copying Data Diskettes 3 1 5 Write Protect Tab 3 1 6 Labelling Diskettes 3 1 7 Storing Diskettes 3 1 8 A Word of Encouragement ADVANTAGE MAINTENANCE I PF g f WW Go NI I oiy bo t O O 1 wo A 1 sp 2 1 2 2 2 2 2 5 2 6 2 6 2 8 2 9 2 10 2 10 2 11 2 11 2 12 2 12 3 1 3 2 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 5 3 6 3 6 3 7 3 7 APPENDIX APPENDIX APPENDIX APPENDIX TROUBLESHOOTING 41 TROUBLESHOOTING PROCEDURES 4 2 CHANGING
3. 4 3 1 TOR ORE HALO IE POPE ETS CEES ROPE FCI DISTT VOODOO Remove and discard the used fuse a tiny cylinder of glass Remove the spare fuse from the fuse holder and insert it as shown in Figure 4 4 Slight pressure on the fuse will cause it to snap into place Figure 4 4 Replace the fuse holder in the ADVANTAGE Reconnect the power cord to the power receptacle and plug the cord back into the wall Additional metric fuses can be purchased from specialty electronics supply firms Consult the serial label on the back of the computer to find the proper rating for the fuse 4 4 ADVANTAGE User Manual RY EEL DRED REEDED ET Ra ENC A Nae NL ie ue pA Ranta iat ance ODADAS EE CABINET Dimensions 48 cm wide x 51 cm long x 31 5 cm high 1834 in x 20 in x 1214 in Net Weight 7 kg 43 Ibs Composition High impact structural foam POWER REQUIREMENTS External with Internal Line Filter Domestic 115 VAC 95 to 135 VAC 50 60 Hz International 115 230 VAC 95 to 132 VAC 187 to 265 VAC 50 60 Hz Internal Supply Voltages 5 VDC 5 12 VDC 5 Power Consumption 2 amps 1 amp TEMPERATURES AND HUMIDITY Operating with diskette 10 C to 40 C 50 F to 104 F 20 to 80 non con
4. in disk drive 2 Type D2 then press RETURN Program loaded from remote source e g a central computer in a time sharing system Type S then press RETURN There are two indications that a program is being loaded from a disk drive in the ADVANTAGE The red light on the drive goes on and you can hear the sound of the drive motor as the drive begins to read the diskette If you have inserted a single sided dual capacity diskette a buzz sounds eight times as the computer reads the diskette These sounds are normal and merely remind you that the diskette is single sided ADVANTAGE User Manual 2 5 When you load a program on power up the computer automatically tests the ADVANTAGE memory and central processing unit If the results of the tests are satisfactory the ADVANTAGE displays program information If the tests produce an error message on the screen contact your dealer for assistance The first time you use the ADVANTAGE it is s important to fully verify the perform ance of the memory Be sure to run the memory tests on the Demonstration Diagnostic Diskette before using the computer to process data Thereafter run the diagnostic tests regularly e g every week or so 2 5 STANDARD KEY FUNCTIONS The following section describes key functions that are standard in a number of North Star programs In many ways the ADVANTAGE keyboard resembles an expanded typewriter keyboard But one major di
5. in others the line closes up to eliminate that space TAB As on a typewriter the TAB key lets you advance to the next tab set position on the line Procedures for setting and clearing tabs vary for individual application programs The RETURN key has several uses When you are entering text pressing RETURN ends the line you are typing and advances you to the beginning of the next line just as it does on a typewriter RETURN often also serves as a program control key and as such its functions can vary accord ing to the program in use ADDITIONAL KEYS ALL CAPS The ALL CAPS key affects only the 26 alphabetic characters It does not shift numeric or special symbol keys When pressed once the ALL CAPS mode is turned on and the red light on the key goes on Pressing the ALL CAPS key again turns this mode off and the red light goes off 2 SESE RR eee ERS UT as BR De ane a The four symbol keys shown above are included for use in mathematical applications 2 5 2 Numeric Pad Keys Numeric Pad Keys Figure 2 9 There are two groups of numeric keys on the ADVANTAGE keyboard One set is located along the top row of the typewriter keyboard The other set is arranged in a calculator style pad at the right of the main keyboard As a convenience the numeric pad also contains the following three symbol keys to facilitate input of numeric data The MINUS key allows you to enter negative numbers T
6. are made by an expert programmer A system diskette could be compared to a piece of artwork purchased at some expense that is put under glass for protection In this case the functional equivalent of the glass is an adhesive tab that covers the write protect notch on the diskette This tab allows a disk drive to read from the diskette but not to write on it Such a diskette is said to be read only The write protect tab on the factory master of any system diskette should always be left in place You may wish to put write protect tabs on the working copies of some or all of your system diskettes You can think of a data diskette conversely as a kind of blackboard Its function is to give you a place to write your data with the freedom to replace that data when you choose On data diskettes the write protect notch is left exposed and the diskette is said to be read write Once you have completed work on a data diskette containing valuable information you may want to put a write protect tab on it to protect the data from accidental erasure A write protect tab is a small self adhesive tab that is placed over the write protect Write Protecting notch as shown in Figure 3 4 To remove a a Diskette write protect tab just peel it off Write protect tabs may be purchased from your Authorized North Star Dealer or any computer media retailer Figure 3 4 ADVANTAGE User Manual 3 5 Ranan 3 1 7 Labelli
7. hand corner of the screen with a small highlighted shape called the cursor positioned below it If the message and the cursor are not visible adjust the brightness control on the back of the computer until the images are clear Figure 2 2 Figure 2 2 ADVANTAGE User Manual 2 1 TRARAANAAAAAAAADARRNAAAASS OAPI TANASE Aa AAA AAAA ORNATE ATA 2 2 2 3 2 2 DISK DRIVE UTILIZATION The basic ADVANTAGE has two disk drives The upper disk drive 1 is usually reserved for system diskettes Each system diskette contains an operating system and may also include the application program to be run Only system diskettes for the ADVANTAGE can be used on this computer The lower disk drive 2 is usually reserved for data diskettes A data diskette stores the infor mation for example the text or accounting files that you generate with a particular system diskette Data diskettes and programs such as FORTRAN and COBOL that do not incorporate an operating system can be used interchangeably between the North Star ADVANTAGE and a North Star HORIZON INSERTING DISKETTES Before you insert any diskette in the system make sure the computer is turned ON Likewise do not turn the computer off until you have removed all diskettes Take the system
8. of special purpose function keys The keyboard is described in greater detail in Section 2 5 ADVANTAGE User Manual Video Screen EE oe oS AE Be AANA EA Figure 1 2 Keyboard Kes o ee DAON gE EET E remem nO SON EBED ee EEE Figure 1 3 1 3 4 Li Disk Drives The basic model ADVANTAGE has two floppy disk drives Each of these contains a high precision motor and a record play back head The disk drives enable the ADVANTAGE to read programs or data from a diskette into the internal memory and to write information from the memory onto a diskette for permanent storage and later re use Diskettes Both the programs used in operating the ADVANTAGE and the data generated on the computer are recorded on floppy disk ettes In appearance and function the disk ette resembles a small flexible phonograph record Actually the diskette is a wafer thin layer of mylar that has been magnetically treated and enclosed in a plastic jacket for protection The diskettes used in the AD VANTAGE have a diameter of 5 inches ee NorthStar Disk Drives t TOSSA SISNET Se meses Mae CRONE 3 oy 7 5 a ne eae ons sy AN s ra TAAN Soe 5 ee ee RR etn 0 a 5 2 8 X Per seine it
9. that are written to run under CP M The version of CP M that North Star has created for the ADVANTAGE Graphics CP M also enables you to write your own programs using the extensive graphics capabilities of this computer ADVANTAGE User Manual 1 5 aA AAAA AAAA AARAARAN AAAS HRD ARAE ARETE YA PATEL SAR A ARRAN Ta 1 5 Languages and Application Programs North Star offers many additional programs for use with the ADVANTAGE including the North Star Graphics BASIC COBOL FORTRAN and a wide range of business oriented application programs Your dealer can provide you the latest listing of software offered and supported by North Star LINE PRINTER 1 6 1 6 Since the ADVANTAGE is an integrated computer the only equipment you will probably want to add to your system is a line printer A line printer produces paper output or hard copies of the information generated with computer programs There are two major types of line printers available The nature of your computer processing will determine which kind of printer is best suited to your needs e Full character line printers offer a range of typestyles and produce sharp clearly defined characters They are often referred to as letter quality printers These printers operate in the low to medium speed range 15 75 characters per second e Dot matrix printers create each individual character with a grid or matrix of dots These printers op
10. the disk drive Push the diskette into the disk drive until you hear a click and feel the diskette hit the back of the slot This indicates that the diskette is properly positioned in the disk drive With the diskette fully inserted close the disk drive by pressing down the latch Closing the Disk Drive Fig 2 7 Figure 2 7 Repeat this procedure to insert a data diskette in the lower disk drive 2 For instructions on removing diskettes see Section 2 7 ADVANTAGE User Manual 2 4 LOADING THE SYSTEM For the ADVANTAGE to operate a program must be transferred from a system diskette into the internal memory This process is called loading the system When the ADVANTAGE is turned on the message 0 SYSTEM and the cursor appear on the screen The computer then waits for your response There are several ways to load the system depending on the location of the system diskette Usually the system diskette is in the upper disk drive 1 and the appropriate loading proce dure is to press the RETURN key Under certain circumstances the system diskette may be loaded from another drive or another computer See Table 2 1 for information on the full range of possible loading proce dures Table 2 1 PROGRAM LOADING PROCEDURES METHOD OF PROGRAM USER RESPONSE TO LOADING LOAD SYSTEM MESSAGE Program loaded from system diskette Press RETURN in disk drive 1 Program loaded from system diskette
11. 50 without pur chaser s consent will be assessed ANY UNIT S OR PART S RETURNED FOR WARRANTY REPAIR MUST BE ACCOMPANIED BY A DATED COPY OF THE ORIGINAL SALES RECEIPT The item should be returned to the dealer from whom the product was purchased for implementa tion of the warranty When sending the item to the factory for repair the dealer must call the North Star Marketing Administration Department to receive a Return Material Authorization RMA number to accompany the item to the factory Peripherals and other products are covered under separate warranties Please consult the warranty supplied with each North Star product ADVANTAGE User Manual 1 1 lt lt lt lt _ _ _ PYRE lt ET HAT EROTAAR GARE OY VV O TROT AARAR AA SIO RARE DAP BOPP 1 1 3 The following warranty limitation applies to units located outside the United States of America All costs and arrangements for transportation of the product to and from the factory are borne entirely by the customer No warranty expressed or implied is extended concerning completeness correctness or suitability of the North Star equipment for any particular application There are no warranties which extend beyond those expressly stated her
12. AINTENANCE The ventilation slots at the back of the computer should be kept clear Position the computer as least several inches away from a wall to make sure that air can circulate freely around the ADVANTAGE Do not rest drinks cigarettes or small objects like paper clips on the top of the computer or on the keyboard The ADVANTAGE electronics can be damaged if foreign materials penetrate the enclosure When you want to clean the cabinet and keys use a cloth that is slightly damp but not wet If you use the ADVANTAGE frequently leave the power on until the end of the day Once a week or so it is advisable to run the diagnostics included on the Demonstration Diag nostic Diskette to make sure that the ADVANTAGE is functioning properly in all respects EEN ADVANTAGE User Manual 3 7 4 1 ADVANTAGE User Manual 4 TROUBLESHOOTING PROCEDURES The following table will help you to diagnose and remedy problems you may encounter as you work with the ADVANTAGE Table 4 1 COMPUTER DOES NOT GO ON WHEN POWER IS TURNED ON 1 1 1 Fan off amp screen blank Power cord is not plugged into wall outlet Plug in cord Power cord is not firmly connected to computer Plug in cord Wall outlet is not providing power Check outlet with another device call electrician for service if necessary AC line fuse is blown Turn power off unplug cord change fuse as described in Section 4 2 1 2 Fan on am
13. SINESS STREET CITY STATE ZIP If you want a reply check here O 25771B North Star Computers Inc 14440 Catalina St San Leandro CA 94577 USA 415 357 8500 TWX Telex 910 366 700
14. Sees mtn eres ene EAN A Snead iy bras RS K mn 3 0 7 7 O por yi antes Myer ee eK N E y SDE 0 Td 0 E ETA AE AEA 2 s TA E E Res es a Ee es CRA ys it coy Sa BSNS ne 3 iv 7 i 2 X Soe SS SE X 0 as Bee So Figure 1 4 Diskette Notes APPLICATION SOFTWARE DATA DISK Figure 1 5 When properly cared for a diskette provides permanent storage for programs or data Disk ettes are also reusable so you can replace information you no longer need with new programs or data you would rather keep ADVANTAGE User Manual SEN eee eee pe ed 0 The ADVANTAGE allows you to use two kinds of diskettes for storing programs and data Both double sided double density quad capacity and single sided double density dual capacity diskettes can be used for these purposes Programs and data diskettes generated on the North Star HORIZON can be used on the ADVANTAGE and in most cases the reverse is also true System diskettes cannot be interchanged between these two computers however Only system diskettes designed for the ADVANTAGE can be used to operate it 1 3 5 Demonstration Diagnostic Diskette The Demonstration Diagnostic Diskette serves two purposes It provides a
15. THE FUSE SPECIFICATIONS UNPACKING INSTALLATION GLOSSARY 4 1 22 1 B 1 1 D 1 FIGURES 1 INTRODUCTION TO THE ADVANTAGE Figure 1 1 Figure 1 2 Figure 1 3 Figure 1 4 Figure 1 5 The ADVANTAGE Video Screen Keyboard Disk Drives Diskette 2 ADVANTAGE OPERATION Figure 2 1 Figure 2 2 Figure 2 3 Figure 2 4 Figure 2 5 Figure 2 6 Figure 2 7 Figure 2 8 Figure 2 9 Figure 2 10 Figure 2 11 Figure 2 12 Figure 2 13 Figure 2 14 Turning on the Power Adjusting the Brightness Handling a Diskette Diskette Features Inserting a Diskette Angle for Diskette Insertion Closing the Disk Drive Conventional Typewriter Keys Numeric Pad Keys Cursor Control Keys Program Control Keys Function Keys Key Combination for Keyboard Reset Resetting the ADVANTAGE 3 RECOMMENDED PROCEDURES Figure 3 1 Figure 3 2 Figure 3 3 Figure 3 4 Figure 3 5 4 TROUBLESHOOTING AND REPLACEMENT PROCEDURES Figure 4 1 Figure 4 2 Figure 4 3 Figure 4 4 ADVANTAGE User Manual Diskette Features Important Diskette Precautions Data Diskette Backup Write Protecting a Diskette Diskette Storage Controls and Connectors on Back of ADVANTAGE Location of Fuse Holder Removing Fuse Holder Inserting a Fuse 2 1 2 2 2 3 2 4 2 6 2 8 2 9 2 10 2 10 2 11 2 12 3 1 3 4 3 5 3 6 iti APPENDIX B UNPACKING Figure B 1 Unpacking the ADVANTAGE B 1 APPENDIX C INSTALLATION Figure C 1 Po
16. a diskette stores mailing list information The unit that comprises the spindle recording playback heads drive actuators etc This unit contains the openings into which your diskettes are inserted In the ADVANTAGE the disk drives are located in the same cabinet as the keyboard and video screen The flexible magnetic media on which programs and data are stored The ADVANTAGE uses 514 diskettes Instead of using separate physical fonts to print each character this type of printer forms a character from an arrangement of dots This is a relatively high speed printing method A dual capacity diskette is single sided with double density Both dual and quad capacity data and program diskettes can be used in the ADVANTAGE Consult the manual for the program you are running to find out how it uses the ESCAPE key In many programs pressing the ESCAPE key terminates the function being performed A single data item For example the Name item on a mailing list would take up one field A unit of storage on a diskette that is grouped and can be accessed under one name A file is a logical subdivision of a diskette whereas a sector is a physical portion of the diskette You do not normally need to be concerned with sectors or the file structures maintained by North Star software to use the programs successfully See DISKETTE The process that creates the file structures on a diskette that must be present before a blank diskette
17. and store it in a safe place At the end of the day turn the power switch off 2 12 ADVANTAGE User Manual ETENE E RECOMMENDED PROCEDURES _ 3 The ADVANTAGE requires little care and few precautions The diskettes you use with the computer are much more fragile and proper handling is necessary to protect them This chapter describes how to safeguard both your equipment and the information stored on your diskettes 3 1 DISKETTE CARE All diskettes require careful treatment A diskette consists of a very thin layer of magnetically treated mylar that is permanently enclosed in a plastic jacket Diskette Features Label Drive Spindle Hole Plastic Jacket Disk Surface Figure 3 1 oe aN Bes Suchen Never try to remove the diskette from the plastic jacket Trying to remove the jacket will ruin the diskette Always hold the diskette by some portion of the plastic jacket ADVANTAGE User Manual 3 1 3 1 1 3 2 Diskettes are vulnerable to damage from fingerprints scratches spills and abrasives If ashes or particles of smoke land on a diskette they can interfere with the storage and retrieval of information Likewise if the diskette is exposed to a magnetic field its contents can be lost Consult Figure 3 2 for information on how to handle your diskettes Important Diskette Precautions Replace in Jacket Do Not Bend Insert Carefully
18. ave only one copy of a system diskette and something happens to it you will have to buy another copy To spare yourself this expense and inconvenience take the factory master of your system diskette and copy it before you use it for any other purpose Each North Star Application Program and System Software Program contains a COPY function for this kind of duplication Consult the program manual for instructions on how to perform this function Make at least two working copies of each original system diskette and store the factory master in a safe place All North Star programs are copyrighted You can make duplicates for your use only not sale or distribution to others Copying Data Diskettes With data diskettes the risk is slightly different Here you face the loss of the time and effort you have invested in generating the data on the diskette If you have been working for a week and a half on a report and the diskette containing your only version is accidentally erased you will have to start over again from the beginning ADVANTAGE User Manual 3 3 Experience suggests that a three tier system of data diskette backup provides the best insur ance against data loss For example the first day you work on a project label the diskette you have used version A At the end of the day copy this original onto a second blank or scratch diskette and label the latter version B Data Diskette Backup l f i
19. can be used for storing data ADVANTAGE User Manual FULL CHARACTER PRINTER FUNCTION HARD COPY HARD DISK HARDWARE INPUT I O KEYBOARD MEMORY MENU ADVANTAGE User Manual Uses a print element daisy wheel or thimble containing a full charac ter set to print letters numbers and special characters The print qua lity is superior to dot matrix printers but the results are produced more slowly In the most general sense any task you ask a program to perform In word processing for example line delete and center are functions The printed output of stored or processed data A storage medium that offers much greater storage capacity and considerably shorter access time than a diskette Backup is performed via tape cartridges The physical equipment or devices of which a computer system is con structed such as the microprocessor and associated electronics disk drives terminals and printers As a verb means enter i e you input data As a noun means that which is entered i e the data itself Abbreviation of input output meaning either or both operations The group of typewriter style keys on your computer that allows input of commands and information The part of the computer that can store information Because the program for any function being performed must be in memory during operation the size of the computer memory measured in bytes is a good indicatio
20. densing Non operating and Shipping 40 C to 52 C 40 F to 125 F 5 to 95 non condensing PROCESSOR MEMORY CPU Z80A microprocessor operating speed 4 MHz 8048 family auxiliary processor for keyboard and disk Memory 64K bytes Main RAM 20K bytes Display RAM 2K bytes Boot PROM ADVANTAGE User Manual 7 A 1 Screen 28 cm 11 in diagonal P31 phosphor green High impact non glare safety shield Grid 1920 character display 24 lines by 80 characters 5x7 character in 8X10 dot matrix 240 pixels high x 640 pixels wide for graphics display Refresh Rate 50 or 60 Hz depending saline frequency CRT Anode Voltage 17 KV maximum KEYBOARD Key Tops Sculptured Selectric compatible N key roll over for fast data entry Number of Keys 87 Key Groups 49 Standard Typewriter Keys 14 Key Numeric Pad with ENTER Key 15 Programmable FUNCTION Keys 9 Additional Symbol Control Keys Other Features Full Cursor Control Special Shift Lock Keys 5 Shift Modes Auto repeat A 2 ADVANTAGE User Manual DISK DRIVES Number of Drives Diskettes Storage Capacity Transfer Rate Latency average Access Time Track to Track Track Density Tracks per Side Two floppy disk drives housed in cabinet Standard 5 in diskettes 512 bytes sector 10 hard sectors track 35 tracks side 2 sides diskette Quad Double sided double density 360K bytes per diskette formatted 250K bits sec
21. diskette you want to use and remove it from the protective envelope Be Handling a Diskette sure to hold the diskette by the label or some portion of the plastic jacket Fig 2 3 Figure 2 3 The one restriction is that quad capacity diskettes generated on the ADVANTAGE cannot be used on a HORIZON that has only dual capacity drives ADVANTAGE User Manual Do not touch the diskette surface shown in Figure 2 4 as you may damage the recording medium Fingerprints dust or scratches on the disk ette surface can destroy information stored Diskette Features on the diskette Always handle the diskette with care For more information on the proper treatment of diskettes refer to Chapter 3 Plastic Jacket Disk Surface Figure 2 4 With the ADVANTAGE turned on open the upper disk drive 1 by lifting the latch Slide Inserting a Diskette the system diskette carefully into the open ing The label should be face up on the edge toward you Fig 2 5 Figure 2 5 ADVANTAGE User Manual 2 3 EIEE The disk drives are set on an angle with the back slightly lower than the front For easy insertion slide the diskette in at the angle Angle for shown in Figure 2 6 Diskette Insertion Figure 2 6 Push the diskette in gently If you encounter more than slight resistance pull the diskette out carefully and start again The diskette is flexible and you may damage it if you try to force it into
22. e functions Once you have become familiar with the ADVANTAGE you will probably find it an indispensable aid in your work This manual contains basic information that will help you use the ADVANTAGE more effectively Advanced technical information is contained in a separate publication the ADVANTAGE Technical Manual The ADVANTAGE User Manual and the programs it describes are copyrighted by North Star Computers Inc All rights are reserved and no license to copy or duplicate i is granted with their distribution or sale Every effort has been made to make this manual clear and accurate If you have any suggestions on how it can be improved please fill in the READER RESPONSE card at the back of the manual and return it to us WARRANTY North Star Computers Inc warrants the electrical and mechanical parts and workmanship of this product to be free of defects for a period of 90 days from date of purchase If such defects occur North Star Computers Inc will repair the defect at no cost to the purchaser This warranty does not extend to defects resulting from improper use or assembly by the pur chaser nor does it cover transportation to the factory Also the warranty is invalid if all instruc tions included in the accompanying documentation are not carefully followed Should a unit returned for warranty repair be deemed by North Star Computers Inc to be defective due to purchaser s action then a repair charge not to exceed
23. ein This limited warranty is made in lieu of all other warranties expressed or implied and is limited to repair or replacement of the product ADVANTAGE CONFIGURATION 1 2 The ADVANTAGE is a stand alone general purpose computer system The keyboard video screen and two disk drives are integrated into a single compact unit Based on the Z80A microprocessor the ADVANTAGE also incorporates an 8048 auxiliary processor The memory includes 64K bytes of Main RAM memory 20K bytes of Video RAM memory and a 2K Boot PROM memory The ADVANTAGE Figure 1 1 ADVANTAGE User Manual 1 3 2 Video Screen The ADVANTAGE displays information on a high resolution video screen The screen ead 24 lines of text with 80 characters per line The ADVANTAGE also supports full graphics functions With the appropriate graphics programs the ADVANTAGE can plot charts and graphs depict textures or three dimensional shapes and even present mag nified and digitized images The screen measures eleven inches diagon ally To reduce eye fatigue the surface of the screen is glare resistant and the images are created by green dots against a dark background Keyboard The keyboard allows you to control com puter programs and enter data The key board contains three major groups of keys one that resembles an expanded typewriter keyboard one that resembles a calculator key pad and one that contains a row
24. eral devices you use MUST be plugged into the same outlet or circuit While a plug strip is often convenient when several pieces of equipment are being operated take care not to overload the circuit Do not use extension cords to power the system Turn on the power The ADVANTAGE on off switch is located at the lower left of Turning on the Power the back panel Press the side of the switch in toward the computer to turn on the power Fig C 9 Figure C 9 ADVANTAGE User Manual 5 Turn the power on before you insert a diskette in the computer When you turn the computer on the fan begins to rotate and a quiet beep sounds The message LOAD SYSTEM i and a small lighted marker appear in the upper left corner of the screen If the message and the marker or cursor are not visible adjust the brightness control Adjusting Brightness Control on the back of the computer Figure C 10 Figure C 10 C 6 ADVANTAGE User Manual eyo ree an Na ta ea A PC eee aire eran a ET ET RE eee ae te Oe Ce See Sea The following is a glossary of basic terms that are used in this and other ADVANTAGE manuals ACCESS APPLICATION PROGRAM APPLICATION SUPPORT PROGRAM ASP AUTOREPEAT BACKUP BYTE CHARACTER CRT CURSOR DAISY WHEEL PRINTER or LETTER QUALITY PRINTER DATA ADVANTAGE User Manual The process of obtaining data from a diskette or placing data in s
25. erate in the medium to high speed range 80 200 characters per second Some printers are also capable of providing hard copies of graphics output USING THIS MANUAL The next chapter of this manual explains how to operate the ADVANTAGE The third chapter RECOMMENDED PROCEDURES provides additional information that will facilitate your work with the ADVANTAGE The fourth chapter provides guidance in troubleshooting Please consult the individual User Manual available for each program for information on the features and the program ADVANTAGE User Manual OPERATION _ ESE REESE NEESER This chapter explains how to use the ADVANTAGE once installation is complete If you need information on installing the ADVANTAGE or connecting it to a printer or another 0006 please read the instructions in Appendix C 2 1 START UP To reduce static noise and maximize system performance the ADVANTAGE and the printer must be plugged into the same GROUNDED 3 wire outlet or outlets on the same circuit Turn on the power to the ADVANTAGE The on off switch is located on the back panel Turning on the Power just above the power cord receptacle Fig ure 2 1 To turn the unit on press in the outer side of the switch Figure 2 1 As the power goes on a quiet beep sounds and the fan begins to whir The message Adjusting the Brightness LORD SYSTEM AN 1 appears in the upper left
26. es Never Touch Diskette Surface 10 C 52 C 50 F 125 F Never Expose to Magnetic Field Figure 3 2 Inserting and Removing Diskettes The ADVANTAGE should always be turned on when you insert or remove a diskette A power transient occurs when you switch the computer on If a diskette is in place in a disk drive this transient can jeopardize the information stored on the diskette ADVANTAGE User Manual 3 1 2 3 1 3 3 1 4 You should only insert or remove a diskette from a disk drive that is idle When a disk drive is in operation the red light on the drive goes on and the sound of the disk drive motor is audible This indicates that the record playback head is in contact with the diskette Pulling the diskette out then could damage its surface Wait until the red light has gone out and the disk drive is silent before removing the diskette Backing Up Diskettes Perhaps the single most important part of working with a computer is learning to make backup copies of all your diskettes This practice is crucial not just to guard against accidental damage but because diskettes eventually wear out Like a phonograph record that is played repeatedly a diskette becomes less reliable after very extensive use Systematic backup of your diskettes provides invaluable protection against information loss due to operator error equipment malfunction and the effects of long term wear Copying System Diskettes If you h
27. es these keys 2 6 RESET 2 6 1 Keyboard Reset You can reset the ADVANTAGE from the keyboard by pressing these four keys simultaneously CMND backspace and the two SHIFT keys Fig 2 13 Key Combination for Keyboard Reset Figure 2 13 As soon as you press this combination of keys the system beeps The screen clears then displays the message LOAD SYSTEM i To RESET the computer during program operation can cause loss of valuable data Push the RESET button only when you need to recover from major system errors If you reset the computer during a work session you usually lose the data stored in memory Data stored on diskette is not affected by the reset procedure ADVANTAGE User Manual 2 6 2 Push Button Reset You can also reset the ADVANTAGE by pushing the button at the lower center of the back panel Fig 2 14 This reset pro cedure has the same results and carries the same risks as the keyboard reset Resetting the ADVANTAGE Figure 2 14 2 7 ENDING A WORK SESSION The manual for the program you are running will explain how to backup your diskettes and exit from the program Be sure to remove any diskettes before turning off the power To protect your data wait until the red indicator light on the disk drive goes out then remove the diskette Lift the latch on the disk drive and carefully remove the diskette Replace the diskette in its protective envelope
28. fference between the keyboard of the ADVANTAGE and an ordinary typewriter is that the function of a specific computer key can vary depending on the program you have loaded into the system The manual for the particular program you are using will explain exactly how that program uses each key 2 5 1 Conventional Typewriter Keys Conventional Typewriter Keys zy TOILL Gee ie T ALPELI ELLEELLE Figure 2 8 2 6 ADVANTAGE User Manual ADVANTAGE User Manual CHARACTER KEYS This portion of the keyboard contains alphabetic characters a z numbers 0 9 and special symbols such as punctuation marks and mathematical notation If you hold down any of these keys for more than one second it will repeat until you release it SHIFT There are two SHIFT keys one on either side of the space bar In general these have the same effect as the SHIFT on a typewriter Neither SHIFT key locks into position The space bar on the ADVANTAGE allows you to move the cursor to the right one space at a time on a given line With many programs if you are in the middle of a line that contains text pressing the space bar moves you forward one space but it also erases whatever character occupied that space and substitutes a blank instead This key generally has the opposite effect of the space bar It allows you to move back one space along the current line but it erases any character it encounters In some programs a blank is substituted
29. he COMMA allows you to insert commas to group digits together The DECIMAL POINT allows you to type decimal numbers 2 8 ADVANTAGE User Manual TTY Cursor Control Keys oe 5 LOCK Figure 2 10 CURSOR The cursor is a small highlighted marker that appears on the screen to indicate the placement of the next character entered Just as the position of the typing element on a typewriter marks where you are located on the page the position of the cursor shows where you are located on the screen Some programs allow you to move the cursor around with the tab space bar and back space The cursor control keys shown in Figure 2 10 allow you to move the cursor more quickly and without causing any erasures x x K t The cursor control keys are marked with arrows showing direction With most programs if you hold down a SHIFT key and a cursor control key the cursor moves in the direction of the arrow until you release the key CURSR LOCK When you press the CURSOR LOCK key once the red light goes on and the keys in this group function as cursor control keys instead of numeric keys You remove the CURSOR LOCK by pressing it again This turns the light off The CURSOR LOCK key is comparable to the ALL CAPS key It allows you to shift the keys on this keypad from the numeric mode unshifted to the cursor control mode shifted The CURSOR LOCK only affects the cursor keys on the
30. he computer instructions that direct computer hardware to perform tasks There are different categories of software application software operating systems language compilers etc Contains the prerecorded programs that make up the North Star System or Application Software you purchased Only ADVANTAGE system diskettes can be used on this computer system diskettes for the HORIZON cannot be used on the ADVANTAGE D 5 r PEEP AAAA AAA A AAAA EAEE ETE RE E eased Tear along perforation READER COMMENTS Northstar Please use this mailer to send your comments on this manual and the program it describes We will carefully consider your suggestions for incorporation in future versions 1f you require more space for your comments please attach a separate sheet NAME OF PROGRAM VERSION NO MANUAL PART NO MANUAL SERIAL NO What features of the program do you like What features of the program don t you like or what features do you feel are missing Are there specific points in the manual that need clarification or correction Give details with page and paragraph references Did you find the manual easy to use and understand Do you think certain aspects should be organized differently Was any necessary material omitted or was any material unnecessary Did you find sufficient information provided in the manual for proper system set up and installation Additional comments NAME DATE COMPANY OR ORGANIZATION TYPE OF BU
31. n after LOAD SYSTEM message appears 3 2 Screen displays garbled message Push RESET button Start again after LOAD SYSTEM or random pattern message appears Load and run tests on Demon stration Diagnostic Diskette Push RESET button If screen is blank or contents are garbled remove diskette Turn power off then on If screen displays LOAD SYSTEM message load and run tests on Demonstration Diagnostic Diskette If screen does not respond to above procedure with LOAD SYSTEM message call for service Controls and Connectors on Back of ADVANTAGE Brightness Control 1 O Connector I O Plate On Off Switch Power Receptacle Fuse Holder Serial Number Reset Push Button Figure 4 1 ADVANTAGE User Manual 4 2 CHANGING THE FUSE To change the fuse first remove any diskettes from the ADVANTAGE then be sure to turn the main power off Unplug the power cord from the wall and disconnect the cord from the power receptacle on the back panel of the computer As a safety precaution the fuse cannot be removed until the power cord has been detached from the back panel The fuse compartment is located just below the power receptacle on the back panel of Location of Fuse Holder the ADVANTAGE The fuse holder is indi cated in Figure 4 2 Figure 4 2 Use a small screw driver to pull out the cross shaped fuse holder Removing Fuse Holder Figure 4 3 ADVANTAGE User Manual
32. n introduction to the capabilities of the ADVANTAGE and the North Star programs that support it This diskette also contains diagnostic tests that enable you to verify the performance of the computer Chapter 2 of this manual gives a simple explanation of how this diskette should be handled and inserted in the computer Read this chapter before trying to use the diskette Keep this diskette available and use the diagnostic portion of it as necessary to verify the oper ation of the ADVANTAGE 1 4 SOFTWARE FOR THE ADVANTAGE North Star provides a broad base of software for the ADVANTAGE This software falls into three major categories operating systems programming languages and application programs 1 4 1 Operating Systems Operating systems perform services such as transferring data from diskette to memory and placing messages on the video screen North Star supports the following operating systems Graphics Disk Operating System The Graphics Disk Operating System or GDOS is a North Star designed operating system that maximizes the performance of the ADVANTAGE GDOS allows you to perform disk file operations to create run and debug programs written in GBASIC or other languages compatible with GDOS as well as to utilize application programs designed for use with GDOS Graphics CP M CP M is a widely used operating system that allows you to use all of the languages such as COBOL and FORTRAN and any of the application programs
33. n of a computer s potential A byte can store one character so for example 64K bytes of memory represents storage for approximately 64 000 characters The two most common types of main memory are Read Only Memory ROM and Random Access Memory RAM also called Read Write Memory The contents of memory can be permanently stored on media such as diskettes hard disks tape cartridges reel to reel tape punched paper tape and punched or encoded cards A list of possible activities a program can perform This list is presented on the video screen so the user can choose among its alternatives D 3 NUMERIC OUTPUT PIXEL PROCESSING PROGRAM PROM QUAD RAM READ RECORD RETURN Means pertaining to numbers A numeric field is one where only numbers blanks and certain relevant symbols such as commas periods dollar signs percent signs etc can be entered Either the data that comes out of a computer or the process of making it come out i e the machine is outputting Video screen dot Illumination of pixels by programmed instructions can create a variety of patterns such as alpha numeric characters charts graphs etc The application of computer operations to alpha numeric data Word processing then is simply the application of computer operations to written text A set of logically ordered instructions designed to direct the computer through a particular operati
34. ng Diskettes Since all diskettes look alike it is important to label them promptly and carefully The label should tell you at a glance what kind of information is stored on the diskette and whether it is a master working or backup diskette Other notations such as when the diskette was last updated can help you identify it quickly Label each diskette with the kind of self adhesive labels shown in Figure 3 5 Fill out the label before attaching it to the diskette or use a felt tip pen Writing on the diskette jacket with a ballpoint pen or pencil may gouge the record ing surface Storing Diskettes Always replace a diskette in its protective envelope as soon as you remove the diskette from the disk drive Even when you intend to use the diskette again shortly insert itin the protective envelope Store the diskette upright in an appropriate container Figure 3 5 Containers may be pur chased from your local authorized North Star Dealer or any computer media retailer Diskette Storage Figure 3 5 __ ADVANTAGE User Manual 4 Heat humidity dust and magnetic fields are all harmful to diskettes so keep stored diskettes protected from these conditions 3 1 8 A Word of Encouragement All these precautions sound laborious but they will quickly become familiar Developing good habits will make your work with the ADVANTAGE considerably more enjoyable and save you expense and frustration 3 2 ADVANTAGE M
35. numeric pad as ALL CAPS only affects alphabetic keys ADVANTAGE User Manual 2 9 ER ere ge Oe RE EN EE Nc ne a dene ae ee a er LAAAAAEMAANANANS Ah bth hh hth pce ea ea BC a AANEEN T EON A PIE Bees ERNS 2 Our R cn 7 0 RARE Figure 2 11 ENTER CMND CONTROL The functions of these program control keys are determined by the program you are running Check your program manual for an explanation of how the program uses these keys 2 5 5 Function Keys Function Keys Te 2 any ge oA 7 5 SN A 8 ES aed Bi tae OY a Set EEEE ERANS i AA i PA RO eae SS Figure 2 12 2 10 SOY LANEY SRY EET ETE OED EE BREE SETI NAA ty yy tl A AANA AICI I I ECCI ADVANTAGE User Manual 3 YY Along the top of the keyboard is a row of fifteen programmable FUNCTION keys Each indi vidual FUNCTION key can be used three ways unshifted shifted and in combination with the COMMAND key Fach FUNCTION key can therefore implement a maximum of three functions The manual for each program will describe if and how the program us
36. on or set of operations Computer programs are also referred to as software Programmable Read Only Memory A quad capacity diskette is double sided with double density It can store twice as much information as a dual capacity diskette Either dual or quad capacity data and program diskettes can be used in the AD VANTAGE Random Access Memory also known as Read Write Memory The process of picking up data stored on a magnetic media such as a diskette and transferring it to the internal memory Reading always occurs from a peripheral unit to the internal memory Basically a group of fields For example a list that contains the name address and phone number of everyone at a party where there are 20 people would be a list of 20 records with each record containing three fields This key has many uses depending on the program Generally one function of the RETURN key is to indicate the end of a data input operation meee ADVANTAGE User Manual ROM SCRATCH DISKETTE SCREEN SOFTWARE SYSTEM DISKETTE ADVANTAGE User Manual 9 ieee 7 Read Only Memory A new diskette or one that contains material you don t wish to keep permanently The television like monitor on which a program prompts you for input and which displays messages and the information you are working with Also called CRT video monitor video screen VDU Video Display Unit or VDT Video Display Terminal T
37. ond 100 ms 5 ms 48 tpi ERROR RATES Soft Errors Hard Errors Seek Errors Disk Speed INPUT OUTPUT 1 O Bus Serial I O SIO ADVANTAGE User Manual 1 per 108 bits read t per 10 bits read 1 per 10 seeks 300 rom 46 Slots for up to six plug in boards Each board addressed by 16 I O addresses RS232C serial port Current loop option Asynchronous 45 baud to 19 2 Kilobaud Synchronous 2400 baud to 51 Kilobaud EEan AAAA AAAA AAAA AAA OPOI TCO POT ONION E AONE OON ETEEN ETY PETE ETTVT YT PPC VE ECVP VPW AAAI AAAA AAAA OT OPED SEDITION EPEE EEE EASES EXT CPLEY EET TVW YET 34 NESR ten ance cig ae INPUT OUTPUT cont Parallel 1 O PIO 8 bit data in and out with three handshake lines for each port Maximum speed is limited by the processor Floating Point Board FPB Performs high speed BCD floating point arithmetic add subtract multiply divide Up to 14 digits of precision programmable Overflow underflow and divide by zero status Typical 8 digit multiply 80 usec Typical 8 digit divide 156 usec ADVANTAGE User Manual NPACKING __APPENDIX E a oes sent Bae Keep the shipping container and packing material Should you need to return your ADVANTAGE to the factory the computer must arrive undamaged to qualify fo
38. p screen blank Adjust brightness control on back panel See Figure 4 1 Push RESET button If no response call for service LOAD SYSTEM MESSAGE APPEARS BUT COMPUTER DOES NOT RESPOND TO LOADING PROCEDURE No 2 1 Drive indicator light goes on Push RESET button and repeat loading procedure motor is audible Diskette inserted improperly Remove amp reinsert diskette Data diskette inserted instead of system diskette Replace diskette Diskette damaged Replace with another copy of diskette Disk drive inoperative Place system diskette in other drive and try to load If program loads ES CAPE and insert Demonstration Diagnostic Disk atte Run test for disk drives Alternate drive is also inoperative Check loading procedure then repeat If no response call for service 2 2 Drive indicator light does not Improper loading sequence for that drive See go on drive motor does not turn on CHAPTER 2 Section 2 4 Disk drive inoperative Place system diskette in other drive and try to load If program loads ES CAPE and insert Demonstration Diagnostic Disk ette Run diagnostic test for disk drives 2 3 Both drives are inoperative Check loading procedures then repeat If no response call for service PROGRAM LOADS AND RUNS THEN FAILS 3 3 1 Screen displays orderly error Consult program manual for explanation of message message and procedure for clearing it Push RESET button Start agai
39. r warranty service Repacking the computer in the original container provides the best protection for it Lift the ADVANTAGE and the foam packing material out of the shipping container SS S SS Figure B 1 B 1 ADVANTAGE User Manual Seige Canoe EES Remove the packing material Place the ADVANTAGE on a flat surface capable of supporting a weight of about 50 pounds Remove the other items from the container Store the container and the packing material In addition to the packing material the container should include 1 ADVANTAGE Computer 2 A C Power Cord 3 Installation Guide 4 ADVANTAGE User Manual 5 Demonstration Diagnostic Diskette Verify that the contents of the container match this list Should you find that anything is missing from the container or should there appear to be damage due to shipping please notify your dealer immediately B 2 ADVANTAGE User Manual RR AAAS vite aaa eae ee as enters os REN PB SSN cei ed a ea ae ae Oe Se UE he EEA Lie EU ES 5 5 spaces pote a C 1 SELECTING A SITE The ADVANTAGE is an integrated computer system combining a microprocessor memory keyboard video display and two disk drives You can place the ADVANTAGE in almost any convenient location although the computer should not be exposed to ex
40. sitioning the ADVANTAGE and a Printer C 1 Figure C 2 Back of ADVANTAGE C 2 Figure C 3 Printer Connectors C 2 Figure C 4 Connecting the Printer C 3 Figure C 5 Securing the Connector C 3 Figure C 6 Installing the Power Cord C 4 Figure C 7 Untaping the Disk Drives C 4 Figure C 8 Plugging in the ADVANTAGE C 5 Figure C 9 Turning on the Power C 5 Figure C 10 Adjusting the Brightness C 6 TABLES Table 2 1 Program Loading Procedures 2 5 Table 5 1 Troubleshooting 4 1 iv E ADVANTAGE User Manual AE AAD PNAC ESS YS EY Oh Te PE TE YY EE OEP Ee EE RET nea SEE RAS a PSone E ce ee ate a tee ADVANTAGE 1 1 1 2 INTRODUCTION The North Star ADVANTAGE is a self contained computer with capabilities extending from data processing and word processing to graphic display This compact desk top computer is designed to meet the needs of small businesses and technical professionals A stand alone computer with communications capabilities it offers high performance and quick response The ADVANTAGE is easy to use as is the North Star software that supports it The broad base of software available for the ADVANTAGE makes this computer a versatile information management system The ADVANTAGE can be used for applications ranging from financial accounting to scientific computation to maintaining mailing lists to generating graphic output for thes
41. torage on a diskette A program written to perform a specific task such as word processing or maintaining a general ledger The operating system used by North Star Application Programs The operating system performs important functions that are invisible to the user such as reading data from a diskette into the internal memory and placing messages on the screen The automatic repeat of a character key is activated by holding down the key for the desired number of repetitions Additional copies of a system or data diskette that protect you against information loss due to power transients equipment malfunction or operator error A group of binary digits that the computer operates upon as a unit The ADVANTAGE uses an eight bit byte Any letter number or special symbol that is displayed on the screen placed in memory or stored on a diskette Cathode Ray Tube the video monitor or screen which displays the dialogue between the computer and the operator The small highlighted pattern that indicates the current typing position on the video screen See FULL CHARACTER PRINTER Any information that can be processed by computer D 1 DATA DISKETTE DISK DRIVE DISKETTE DOT MATRIX PRINTER DUAL ESCAPE FIELD FILE FLOPPY DISK FORMATTING A DATA DISKETTE A diskette that is used to store data generated by the user For example a word processing data diskette stores documents and a mailing list dat
42. tremes of temperature or humidity An environment that is com fortable for the operator is also suitable for the ADVANTAGE You may wish to connect a printer to the computer Situate the printer within six feet of the ADVANTAGE but rest each device on a separate work surface The arrangement shown in Figure C 1 is recommended because it prevents vibration from the printer from affecting the computer Positioning the ADVANTAGE and a Printer Figure C 1 C 2 CONNECTING THE ADVANTAGE AND THE PRINTER Before connecting the ADVANTAGE to a printer or another peripheral device read the instruction manual for the peripheral ADVANTAGE User Manual C 1 Position the computer so the back is facing you Fig C 2 Connect the computer and the printer before attaching the power cord to the computer Back of ADVANTAGE Brightness Control I O Connector On Off Switch Power Receptacle Figure C 2 Make sure that the power to the printer is turned off and the power cord is unplugged from the wall socket The printer is connected to the ADVANTAGE by either a flat ribbon cable or around cord Printer Connectors The printer cord or cable must end in a D shaped connector as shown in Figure C 3 Figure C 3 C g ADVANTAGE User Manual Press the D shaped connector carefully over the I O connector that projects out of the back of the ADVANTAGE Fig C 4 These connectors only match one
43. way so make sure they are properly aligned Tighten down the connector screws to make sure that the printer cable remains in place Fig C 5 ADVANTAGE User Manual Figure C 4 Securing the Connector C 3 C3 STARTING THE ADVANTAGE Take the socket end of the power cord sup plied with the ADVANTAGE Press the socket firmly over the three prong receptacle in the lower left hand corner of the computer s back panel Fig C 6 Turn the ADVANTAGE around so that the Figure C 6 front of the computer is facing you Untaping the Disk Drives Remove the tape from the disk drives Figure C 7 ERO SEA ESI 7 oe IEEE ER o o ait 1 A 0 ae G ees any es an ERIE RFR ION PEY PA SRR rear REAL ODN SNA E POR AM The ADVANTAGE oper the standard electrical power supplie es schools and homes The computer MUST BE ELECTRICALLY GROUNDED however ADVANTAGE User Manual ANC oo ee AEI EA EAE BAARIA AIS E rT All ADVANTAGE system components must be powered from grounded 3 wire A C outlets on the same circuit Do not use any plug adapters that eliminate the ground line Plugging in the ADVANTAGE Figure C 8 The computer printer and any other periph
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