Proper Diskette Usage and Care

From: Pete Joules <msteele_at_joules.enterprise-plc.com>
Date: Wed Jan 6 15:28:18 1999

I think this is relevant to most classic machines :)


        Proper Diskette Usage and Care


(1) Never leave diskettes in the drive, as the data can leak
     out of the disk and corrode the inner mechanics of the
     drive. Diskettes should be rolled up and stored in
     pencil holders.

(2) Diskettes should be cleaned and waxed once a week.
    Microscopic metal particles may be removed by waving a
    powerful magnet over the surface of the disk. Any
    stubborn metal shavings can be removed with scouring
    powder and steel wool. When waxing a diskette, make sure
    the surface is even. This will allow the diskette to
    spin faster, resulting in better access time.

(3) Do not fold diskettes unless they do not fit into the
    drive. "Big" Diskettes may be folded and used in
    "Little" drives.

(4) Never insert a diskette into the drive upside down. The
    data can fall off the surface of the disk and jam the
    intricate mechanics of the drive.

(5) Diskettes cannot be backed up by running them through a
    photo copy machine. If your data is going to need to be
    backed up, simply insert TWO diskettes into your drive.
    Whenever you update a document, the data will be written
    onto both disks. A handy tip for more legible backup
    copies: Keep a container of iron filings at your desk. When
    you need to make two copies, sprinkle iron filings
    liberally between the diskettes before inserting them into
    the drive.

(6) Diskettes should not be removed or inserted from the
    drive while the red light is on or flashing. Doing so
    could result in smeared or possibly unreadable text.
    Occasionally, the red light remains flashing in what is
    known as a "hung" or "hooked" state. If your system is
    hooking, you will probably need to insert a few coins
    before being allowed to access the slot.

(7) If your diskette is full and needs more storage space,
    remove the disk from the drive and shake vigorously for
    two minutes. This will pack the data enough (data
    compression) to allow for more storage. Be sure to cover
    all openings with scotch tape to prevent loss of data.

(8) Data access time may be greatly improved by cutting more
    holes in the diskette jacket. This will provide more
    simultaneous access points to the disk.

(9) Periodically spray diskettes with insecticide to prevent
    system bugs from spreading.....

Regards
Pete

Regards
Pete
Received on Wed Jan 06 1999 - 15:28:18 GMT