If these methods do not work, you may need to reset the computer as described below. Do not turn off the computer to exit a program or stop a command unless you have to, because the computer erases any data you did not save.

Resetting the Computer

Occasionally, you may want to clear the computer’s memory without turning it off. You can do this by resetting the computer.

For example, if an error occurs and the computer does not respond to your keyboard entries, you can reset it to reload your operating system and try again. However, resetting erases any data in memory that you have not saved, so reset only if necessary.

Caution

Do not reset the computer to exit a program. Some programs classify and store new data when you exit them normally. If you reset the computer without properly exiting a program, you may lose data.

To reset the computer, the operating system must be either on the hard disk or on a diskette in drive A, so if you do not have a hard disk, insert the system diskette in drive A. If you are using MS-DOS, you can hold down Ctrl and Alt and press Del. The screen displays nothing for a moment and then the computer reloads your operating system.

You can also press the RESET button located on the front right side of your computer.

2-4 Using Your Computer