Re: Apple ][c Questions

[dempson@actrix.gen.nz (David Empson)]

Edhel Iaur, Esq. <drsmooth@relex.com> wrote:

> On 15 Dec 1996 01:36:53 GMT, kristelli@mail.earthlink.net wrote:
> 
> >Can any 5 1/4 diskettes I buy be formatted in an Apple ][c?
> 
> The Single/Double density ones will work fine.  The odd part is, if
> you have a disk notcher (or a hole-punch, and good aim), you can make
> them ALL double-sided, even the ones clearly marked "Single Sided".

The practise of double-notching 5.25" disks so that the reverse side can
be used is somewhat dubious.

Inside the disk cover is a layer of cleaning material, which is
responsible for collecting dust and other grime off the disk surface.
In most floppy disks, this is designed with the rotation of the disk in
mind.

If you flip the disk over, the disk is now rotating in the opposite
direction, and the cleaning layer deposits the accumulated gunk back
onto the disk surface.

In addition, a disk which is labelled "single sided" might actually have
defects on the flipped side, resulting in even poorer reliability.


In most cases, I've found that disks I've double notched in this manner
have been less reliable than ones with which I only used one side.  This
may vary between brands.

My rule was (I don't use 5.25" disks any more): if I want to keep it,
use one side only, or make sure I have a backup on such a disk.  For
day-to-day stuff that can be lost, a double-notched disk is OK.

-- 
David Empson
dempson@actrix.gen.nz
Snail Mail: P.O. Box 27-103, Wellington, New Zealand