Using a Hard Disk Drive

Using a hard disk is similar to using a diskette. However, the hard disk provides several advantages:

aA 40MB hard disk can store as much data as approximately thirty-three 1.2MB diskettes, and a 100MB hard disk can store as much data as approximately eighty-two 1.2MB diskettes.

aYour computer can perform all disk-related operations faster.

aYou can store frequently used programs and data files on the hard disk, eliminating the inconvenience of swapping diskettes to access different files.

The added storage capacity makes it easy to move back and forth between different programs and data files. However, because it is so easy to add programs and files to your hard disk, you may find yourself trying to organize hundreds of files.

Most operating systems let you keep related files together in directories and subdirectories so they are easy to find and use. See your operating system manual for instructions on managing your files and directories.

Note

A hard disk must be partitioned and formatted before you can use it. Be sure you have performed the procedures described in your operating system manual to prepare your hard disk for use.

1-20Using Your Computer