Beware of the Magnetic Field
Remember that diskettes store their data magnetically, just like tapes.
You probably won’t be running a horseshoe magnet over the surface of the diskette, but you should be aware that there are many sources of magnetism in and around your home or office. A paperclip from a magnetic paperclip holder, strategically dropped on the magnetic surface of a diskette,
can do plenty of damage, as can the holder itself.
Also, just about everything that uses electricity generates magnetism. Electric typewriters (why would you need one of those?), television sets, fans, speaker magnets, and telephones (which are often placed near a com- puter) all generate magnetic fields. Keep your diskettes away from them!
Keep it Comfortable
When it comes to temperature, treat your diskettes like people. Room temperature is best.
If you leave your diskettes in a locked car in the middle of the sum-
mer or the dead of a northern winter, you’re asking for trouble. If you absolutely must leave diskettes in a car, the trunk is probably best because it is better insulated, and temperatures will therefore be more moderate. The optimum temperature range is from 50 to 90 degrees Fahrenheit.
Inserting Diskettes
Choose the system diskette that you wish to start with and remove it from the paper envelope. Remember, don’t touch the exposed magnetic surfaces!
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