Gateway 2000 4DX2-66 Model Mini Desktop

[Jimc]

Any help in solving the following problem is welcome. I was encouraged when I read a posting regarding a short tower Gateway 2000 problem that was solved by edwin.
This older computer, most components were made in late 1994; supports a DOS program and related printing. When the CMOS battery died and was replaced, I got the message, "3F8h COM address conflict". I have tried using F9 and then F10 to restore the functionality without success. The motherboard is 8.5" X 9.0", +/-. Most of the memory is unused, and the only attachments are the mouse, the CRT, the keyboard and a simple printer that had worked well before the battery died. I re-set the time, and that continues to be correct. The computer runs under "safe" mode, but will not print in that mode. I have tried a series of various combinations of BIOS settings beyond simply restoring settings, but the address conflict message is still there. Thank you for having this site out here.
Jimc

[edwin]

Tried setting both serial ports (COM1 and COM2) to Auto?

[Jimc]

edwin Set all IRQ's to AUTO does not boot Jimc

[edwin]

Ok, let's see if we can find out what happens.

When do you see the error message and do you have any options to make the boot process continue?
Safe mode is pressing F8 during boot?
This thing is running what OS: DOS/windows 3.11/windows 95?
If DOS, can you attach autoexec.bat and config.sys files to your reply?
You are absolutely sure there's no modem of some sort inside the machine?
Is this thing using an S3 branded video card by any chance?

[Jimc]

edwin,

I was able to open in Safe Mode before, without being able to print. I believe that there is some potential internet capability that was never used. There are no phone line connections or cable/wireless equipment.

There was a game card, Creative Lab Sound Blaster 16 or AWE-32. Type: Sound, Video and Game Controller.

After reading your questions, I pulled the game card out and tried to boot. I hit F!, when offered F1 or F2, and the computer booted and went into User software to correct "Your display adapter conflicts with another device (device not identified) in your computer. To correct the problem click OK to start the Hardware Conflict Troubleshooter."

So, I followed all that stuff through to where I could identify a "free resource," did that and then tested to ensure it was free, then re-started but the "3F8h COM address conflict" is still there. I can now boot and use the F1 to get to all the programs and DOS.

So, for me, that is a victory.

Many thanks for your insights and probing questions. They led me to a good measure of success.

Jimc

[edwin]

It is based on what i encountered myself back in the days. I still think both serial ports are set for the address of COM1 being 3F8 but if you already can use the machine and don't mind the message, it's fine for me.