MS-DOS cannot use more than 32MB in a single partition, so creating an extended partition allows you to use the extra 8MB of space.

The primary partition automatically becomes drive C. If you create an extended partition (on either a 20MB or a 40MB hard disk), you can make it just one drive or break it into multiple drives. Each drive in the extended partition is assigned a drive letter, beginning with D, and you can define how much space you want each drive to have.

In the following procedures you’ll enter MS-DOS commands and use the working copies of your Startup/Operating 1, Operating 2, and Reference diskettes. If you are new to computers and MS-DOS, this may be the first time you have used an operating system. The steps are simple, and you should not have any problems; however, if you do have questions, see Chapter 5 for basic information about using MS-DOS or see your MS-DOS manual for more detailed information about the operating system.

Creating a Primary Partition

The steps below describe how to create a primary partition of the maximum size: 20MB on a 20MB hard disk or 32MB on a 40MB hard disk. If you want the primary partition to be smaller, see the instructions for FDISK in your MS-DOS manual.

1.Make sure the computer is turned off.

2.Make sure the switch marked HDD POWER on the back of the computer is turned on.

3.Insert your working copy of the Startup/Operating 1 diskette into the diskette drive.

4.Turn on the computer.

5.Press Enter twice to accept the date and time shown (or enter the date and time if they are incorrect).

Preparing the Hard Disk for Use

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