Problems Running EMM386.EXE with Laptop Computers (103313)



The information in this article applies to:

  • Microsoft MS-DOS operating system 6.0
  • Microsoft MS-DOS operating system 6.2
  • Microsoft MS-DOS operating system 6.21
  • Microsoft MS-DOS operating system 6.22

This article was previously published under Q103313

SUMMARY

Some laptop computers may experience problems associated with using Microsoft's MS-DOS EMM386.EXE expanded memory manager.

MORE INFORMATION

EMM386.EXE allows MS-DOS to simulate expanded memory on computers with a 386 or higher microprocessor. It also allows terminate-and-stay- resident (TSR) programs and device drivers to be loaded into the upper memory area (UMA) to free conventional memory for MS-DOS-based applications. You may experience problems using EMM386.EXE on certain laptop computers.

Toshiba

Symptoms

Toshiba has confirmed that EMM386.EXE, included with the Microsoft MS-DOS 6 and 6.2 Retail Upgrade Package, is not compatible with the Resume mode on Toshiba laptops.

EMM386.EXE also disables the PopUp window on Toshiba laptops. If the EMM386.EXE driver is loaded in the CONFIG.SYS file, the FN-PopUp key combination does not cause the PopUp window to be displayed; therefore, you may be unable to view the current battery charge or toggle the various battery options. Resolution

For further information concerning installing MS-DOS 6.0 on Toshiba computers, call Toshiba Technical Support at (800) 456-8649.

CompuAdd

Symptoms

After running MEMMAKER.EXE or manually adding EMM386.EXE to the CONFIG.SYS file on a CompuAdd 325TFX or 425TFX running LAP.SYS, the computer may stop responding (hang) on startup.

Cause

This problem occurs because the LAP.SYS driver, which loads in the CONFIG.SYS file, uses the upper memory address range C000-CFFF.

Resolution

To correct this problem, you must exclude the C000-CFFF range by adding the parameter X=C000-CFFF to the EMM386.EXE line in the CONFIG.SYS file. For example:

device=c:\dos\emm386.exe x=c000-cfff

LAP.SYS is CompuAdd's power management system program. For more information, call CompuAdd Technical Support at (800) 999-9901.

Modification Type:MajorLast Reviewed:11/19/1999
Keywords:KB103313