The area allocated to an operating system is called a partition. Each partition must be set up
by the corresponding operating system. MS-DOS uses the FDISK command to create its
partition. The MS-DOS documentation explains how to create directories and subdirectories
within the partition. Directories and subdirectories help organize your work.
CD ROM Drive
The computer’s internal CD ROM drive accommodates either 12 (4.72”) cm or 8 cm (3.15”)
CDs. It provides high-performance double-speed play (reads 300KB per second).
The computer uses an ATAPI interface controller for CD ROM operation.
For directions on loading and unloading CDs, refer to Chapter 4, Operating Basics.
CD Care
Handle your diskettes with care. The following simple precautions will increase the lifetime of
your diskettes and protect the data you store on them:
1. Store your CDs in the container they came in to protect them and keep them clean.
2. Do not bend the CD or mar its surface.
3. Hold the CD by it outside edge or the edge on the center hole. Fingerprints on the
surface may prevent the drive from properly reading data.
4. Do not expose to to direct sunlight, extreme heat or cold. Do not place heavy objects on
your CDs.
5. If your CDs become dusty or dirty, wipe them with a clean dry cloth. Wipe from the
center out, do not wipe in a circular direction around the CD. If necessary, use a cloth
dampened in water or a neutral cleaner. Do not use benzine, thinner or similar cleaner.
3 1/2" External Diskette Drive
The external 3 1/2” diskette drive is useful for installing software on the HDD and exchanging
information with other systems. Refer to Chapter 3, Getting Started, for information on
connecting the 3 1/2" diskette drive.

3 1/2" Diskettes

Two views of a 3 1/2” diskette permanently enclosed in its plastic jacket are shown in figure
5-1. An arrow directing the way to insert the diskette is on one side and a metal hub allowing
the diskette drive to spin the diskette is on the other side.