Write, read check

This check tests the ability of the hard disk drive to read and write data. The test writes to and reads from each sector of the innermost cylinder of the disk, using each head.

Note

This test destroys all data on the innermost cylinder of the hard disk drive. This cylinder is reserved for diagnostics, however, and is never used for storage by MS-DOS. Therefore, data created by MS-DOS is not destroyed.

Select option 2 from the menu to start this test. You see this message:

The data on the highest physical cylinder may be destroyed by this check.

Enter Y to start this check. Enter N to return to the menu.

Press Y and then Enter to continue the test.

You do not see a cylinder count during the test. If no errors occur, the program returns to the menu.

If an error is reported, consult your dealer.

Read, verify check

This test reads and verifies data from all tracks of the disk, checking each cylinder and using all heads.

Select option 3 from the menu to start this test. The program displays the number of each cylinder it finds. For example, with a 20MB hard disk, the first message you see is:

Current cylinder is 614

D-20

Performing System Diagnostics