Diskette Care...

The Loony Bin ( loonies@bloodaxe.demon.co.uk )
Tue, 26 Aug 1997 23:16:12 +0100


Hiya People...

Here's some advice on how to get the best from your floppies...

Wishes & Dreams...

- ANDREA
                        xx

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*******************Internet Goddess********************
**********************ANDROMEDA************************

  ------- Forwarded foolishness follows -------
 
I have enclosed some important information on the proper use and storage
of software media.  This should be considered THE BIBLE of diskette
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
entire 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 diskette 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 from or inserted into 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 "hung" or "hooked" state.  If your system
is hooking, you will probably either need to insert a few coins before
being allowed access to the slot, or, give your drive two minutes in the
penalty box.
 
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 me 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 and viruses from spreading.