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AST RESEARCH, INC.         TECHNICAL BULLETIN # 1134                4-11-95

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				 MANHATTAN P OR V REPORTING "NVRAM BAD"


PROBLEM

After a cold boot of a correctly configured Manhattan P or V system, the 
following error message may be reported during POST:

	EISA Configuration NVRAM Bad - Run Configuration Utility

This symptom may be correctly reported when some changes are made to the 
system.  For example, the CMOS battery backup is defective or the `Clear EISA 
CMOS' switch on the system board has been set.


CAUSE

The Power Supply Unit (AST part number: 230717-001) corrupts the EISA CMOS.

SYSTEMS AFFECTED
AST PART NUMBER AND DESCRIPTION

501500-XXX     MANHATTAN V5090
501502-XXX     MANHATTAN P5090


SOLUTION

Check the revision of the power supply unit.  If the power supply unit is at 
revision A, replace the power supply unit with revision B or higher.  
Run EISACU to reconfigure the EISA CMOS.

The revision letter can be located on the power supply unit inside the system.  
For information on obtaining a replacement power supply unit, call your 
nearest AST Authorized Service Center.

For procedures on opening the system and replacing the power supply unit, 
please refer to the AST Manhattan P and V Series Computer User's Manual.


CAUTION

This modification should be performed ONLY by a qualified service technician.  
It is strongly recommended that this change be completed by an AST Authorized 
Service Center.  In no case will AST Research, Inc. be liable for damage to 
the system and its components, or loss of data caused by improper 
modification.


PREREQUISITES

A full backup of all data on the hard drive in the computer is strongly 
suggested.


INSTALLATION PROCEDURE

Removal and replacement of system "Field Replaceable Units" (FRUs) should only 
be performed according to the installation procedures approved and prescribed 
by AST Research, Inc.  


NOTE

Warranty reimbursement for this change requires prior AST Research, Inc. 
approval. 

The warranty on this system will become VOID if this change is completed by 
ANYONE other than an AST Authorized Service Center.