Epson 20, 386 Unconditional Format, Enter interleave factor (l-n):, Do you want default interleave of 1 (Y/N)

Unconditional Format

Use this option to format your hard disk when you want to enter the list of bad tracks before formatting begins. The main difference between unconditional and conditional formatting is the way in which bad tracks are identified. With the unconditional format, you must enter the list of bad tracks before formatting begins.

To start the Unconditional format routine, press 2 and then Enter. You are first given the option to change the interleave factor for formatting from the default value of one. Only do this if the documentation with your hard disk recommends a different value. You see this prompt:

Do you want default interleave of 1 (Y/N)?

To accept the default, press Y and Enter. To change the value, press N and Enter. You see this prompt:

Enter interleave factor (l-n):

where n is equal to the maximum sector number. For the ST-506 hard disk, n is 16; for the ESDI hard disk, n is either 33 or 35. Type the recommended value and press Enter. The next screen allows you to edit the table of bad tracks:

Bad Track Table

Cylinder Head Cylinder Head Cylinder Head Cylinder Head Cylinder Head

Move highlighted area to desired track with cursor keys.

A = Add track, C = Change track, D = Delete track, F = Finish editing

Enter command letter :

D-6 Physically Formatting a Hard Disk