available for test, what tests are available for the device, device properties, and so on. To change testing parameters, you modify the FDAT.INI file in PC Doctor for DOS.
FDAT consists of the following subtests and features.
Fixed-Disk Tests:
vSeek Tests: - checks the physical operation of the drive head.
–Linear Seek
–Random Seek
–
–Butterfly Seek
vVerify Tests: - checks the integrity of the data present on the media.
–Linear Verify
–Random Verify
vSurface Scan Tests: - checks the drive media for defects.
–Surface Scan (Linear)
–Surface Scan (Aggressive) - this is disabled for normal customer use.
–Surface Scan (Random)
v
–Start SMART
Other Test Features:
v
vAuto Spin Down - a gradual spin down of the drive platters to avoid damaging the media.
vManufacturer Log - an
Multitasking:
To allow simultaneous testing of multiple hard drives whenever possible, the FDAT module is written as a set of multitasking functions. Each drive under test can run the same test or run a different test at the same time. Each subtest is written to handle a single test pass and all test variables are kept track of in a structure unique for each drive.
However, when testing IDE drives, FDAT will not perform simultaneous testing of IDE drives that are attached to the same IDE cable. For example, if FDAT is testing four IDE drives on a PC, it will perform simultaneous testing on drives 1 and 3 first (master drives), then perform tests on 2 and 4 (slave drives). FDAT will also perform simultaneous testing on a master and slave that are on separate IDE cables, but will not perform simultaneous tests on a master and slave on the same IDE cable. This generally increases the amount of time needed to test multiple IDE drives.
Another limitation of FDAT’S multitasking capability is the use of Ultra DMA (UDMA). Only one drive at a time can access the UDMA channel and the UDMA
