To remove the write protection, move the switch up toward the center of the diskette so the hole is covered.

Using the Hard Disk Drive

Unlike a diskette, a hard disk is rigid and fixed in place. It is sealed in a protective environment free of dust and dirt, so you cannot see it. A hard disk stores data the same way as a diskette, but it works much faster and has a much larger storage capacity.

You can do almost all your work on the hard disk and copy your files to diskettes whenever you need to make backups or transfer data to another computer system. However, to ensure that you always have plenty of space available, keep only files you use regularly on the hard disk. Store your other files on diskettes.

Note

You must prepare a new hard disk before using it for the first time. Make sure you have completed all the procedures in Chapter 3 to prepare it.

Caring for the Hard Disk

To avoid damaging your hard disk, take these precautions:

Keep your computer away from magnetic fields, such as electrical appliances, telephones, and loudspeakers.

Keep your computer in a moderate environment. Hard disks work best at room temperature and in normal humidity.

Never turn off the computer’s power or the HDD POWER switch when the HDD LED is on. This light indicates that the computer is currently copying data to or from the hard disk. If you interrupt this process, you may lose data.

Never attempt to open the hard disk unit. The disk itself is enclosed in an airtight container to protect it from dust.

4-16 Using the Equity LT-286