Need help with an ancient PC Vectra QS/20

[Michael_569]

I am getting a POST code of 1102 every time my QS/20 boots up

I searched this code and it means: Timer 2 failed to register test.

After code ram gets tested (4 MEGS) and proceeds to boot normally and reaches DOS.

I ran the setup disk and there is no problem.

Could anyone help me with this error code. I still intend to use this computer, but am unsure what this code speicifically means? Is there a malfunction, is it critical or should I not worry?

thanks in advance

[Antoniov. · Accepted solution]

Michael,
I guess your timer chip has some problem.
If I remember there is old program MSCONFIG or MSC to view IRQ and I/O ports; you could view IRQ chain and understand how your PC working.
If my mind help me, 2.nd time is user by timer tick, interrput generated ever 200ms; MSDOS doesn't use it becuase MSDOS hasn't round robin concept; if is true you can continue use your PC.

@Antoniov

[Michael_569]

Antoniov,

Thank you kindly for your reply.

Could you please elaborate on the chip that is damaged. It controls the IRQ?

MSCONFIG is not available for before Win95, unfortunately.

Could I possibly test the IRQs to determine if they work, by connecting a sound card or modem, and determining if it functions?

[Antoniov.]

Sorry,
the ancient name of MSCONFIG was MSD (MS Diagnostic).
Run it.
I have to close my internet connection, but if you have some problem again, I can see your post tomorrow.
Regards
@Antoniov

[Michael_569]

Thanks for the reply. Would it be true that software will lock up now?

I know this is a judgement call, but would you think I should trash this PC and look for another 386.

[Antoniov.]

Michael,
until PC work, doesn't make nothing.
I think you can't find any software.
If you haven't MSD, please post MSDOS version; I have old copies for V5.00 and V6.00.
@Antoniov

[Michael_569]

Antoniov,

First I very much appreciate your help.

I ran MSD as you mentioned (I have DOS 5.0) and yes the IRQ settings are showing up.

[Michael_569]

Antoniov

What should I look for in MSD? What test do I need to preform.

I am sounding like a moron, but I am not familiar with DOS

[Rudy_8]

Michael...I see you are new to these forums so while you await your benefactor's return, why not take some of your time and read the forum guidelines....specifically those that relate to assigning points. Then you will be able to reward the substantial efforts he is making. (hint: log in, click on the "unassigned" notation by each post)

If you desire a copy of DOS you might also pay a visit to www.bootdisk.com or www.kazungu.com. I recall that the latter was now open to the public and had DOS 6.22 on site.

[Bruno Ganino]

Michael, if your dos is IBM-DOS then the post code 1102 is related to system board.
Read this link
http://www-307.ibm.com/pc/support/site.wss/document.do?lndocid=MIGR-4BAHK2

Ciao
Bruno

[Bruno Ganino]

Michael, look with attention the link
"IntelliStation Troubleshooting" into link of the my previous post.
HTH
Bruno

[Michael_569]

What do points do? I gave everyone a 10.

Do you guys work for HP?

[Bruno Ganino]

Michael, we don't work to HP.
I am into this Forum for to help all the people like You and Me.
Hope to Help.
Bruno

[Michael_569]

Well thank you Bruno very much.

By the way, I realize its a problem with the board, I just want to determine what it is by a test of some sort.

I need to know if this computer will handle running programs or it will lock up.

I just wish there was a way to know definatively whether this 386 will work or if I should search for a new 386.

Regardless though, I forgot to mention in my previous post, thanks alot for your help.

Im going to look at the crystal on the board, try to replace it with one from a good 486 board and see where that leads me.

I think im too spoiled with windows, i dont remember any dos applications any more. :)

[Bruno Ganino]

This is manual for support Vectra
http://h20000.www2.hp.com/bc/docs/support/SupportManual/bpv02560/bpv02560.pdf

I believe that system 386 is very old; but system 486 Also.

If upgrade is possible without money the you can try else it is not convenience.

Good afternoon.
Bruno

[Ganesh Babu]

Hi ,
Even if u bring the 386 to work, it is difficult to maintain, i would suggest to go for a brand new ones with latest configuration..

Ganesh

[Antoniov.]

Michael,
sorry I was busy.
Using MSD you could post IRQ list; however IRQ9 must be set to IRQ2.
Then look about memory (you should see 4Mb).
What program you have to run on this machine?

@Antoniov

[Michael_569]

IRQs are all fine, and indeed IRQ 9 is set for IRQ 2 as you mentioned.

I believe I have found the problem this error is causing me. And if indeed this is all, then I would be fine I gather.

The problem is the clock does not function when the computer is turned off.
This means I can set the clock for 02:00 am and run the computer and the time works.

But when I turn off the computer the time stops. It does not reset as a dead battery would. Instead time stops and at the moment the computer turns off.

I can turn the computer off at 02:30am and then turn it back on in an 30 minutes, 2 hours, a day, and when I type in time in DOS it tells me 02:30:15 am. Time didnt roll while power was off.

Could this be the result of "Timer 2 failed to register"

If battery was dead every time I turned off the computer all my bios settings would be wiped, as would time and date. As right now time just halts but is not erased when power off.

[Antoniov.]

Yes,
may be this; battey backup can't keep bios informations so you read error at booting time.
Wanrnig you could lost other info, such as HD type. I hint change Battery Backup or else write all BIOS data on paper when you'll need of it (obviusolsy until you will use this old PC).
Good Luck
@Antoniov

[Brian Sergeant]

Michael,

I just inherited a repair job on an antique QS/20 that needs a setup disk -- courtesy of a professor who was bargain hunting. I see from the posts that you have a copy ---it is hard to find. If you have a moment could you email me the setup program? I think it is just one file -- setup.exe or setup.com.

Sorry for the intrusion.

Thanks,

-- Brian