Re: Using both sides of DS DD disks

[Jeff Thomas <a2forever@usa.net>]

Frank Townsend wrote:

> I was reading the recent discussion about DSDD disks and disk notchers and
> saw a comment by Roy as follows:
>
> *************************
> > Now a further question is "Why are most DSDD diskettes only notched on
> > one side?".
>
> "Because a double sided disk drive doesn't have to have the disk flipped
> over."
> *************************
>
> I'm using Apple 5.25 disk drives.  Are these double sided drives?  If not,
> were there any Apple II double sided 5.25 drives?
>
> Alternatively, were DSDD disks sold that were pre-notched on both sides?
>
> Finally, is there really something about flipping a disk to record on the
> "wrong side" that endangers data on the "right side" as someone suggested in
> a previous post?

All 5.25inch floppy disk drives on Apple II support double sided diskettes.

To use the back of the disk, you'll need a notch in same position, but on the
opposite side. Reading that disk, involves flipping it over onto it's back.

There are several ways to notch the disk being;-

1. Using a 'disk clipper' (creates perfect notches everytime!),
2. Change the disk drive settings on second drive to 'write enable', thus write
protected disks (which is actually, the non notched side is) can be written to.
3. Use a pair of scissors and cut one out yourself (not, too big, otherwise the
'write protect' tag won't fit!)
4. Try a hole punch.

Once it's being notched/clipped bear in mind, that the diskette on that side is
'unformatted' and hence, 'unbootable'. Use a copy program like "Copy ][
Plus"(C2+) to format it for either Dos 3.3 or ProDOS. *Note: If you format the
disk for ProDOS using "C2+", it won't be bootable, you'll need to copy several
key ProDOS system files for it work - try Apple ProDOS Utilities disk.

Whenever a disk is being flipped over onto it's back, the disk drive has to read
the disk in reverse motion. Since, the majority of the disks are on the front
(not back), it probably isn't very good for the drive in the long haul. General
rule of thumb, store your valuable backup data/programmes on the back and only
access it, whenever the original goes crook.

I never seen any disks being sold with both sides clipped.

I hope that helps!

Cheers,
Jeff.