Operating instructions

DISK MODULE

8 - FORMATTING A PERFORMANCE OR LIBRARY DISKETTE

Before a new disk can record (store) any data, it first must be told how to record

this data (called formatting the disk). Run the following formatting procedure on

any new disk, or on “recycled” disks previously used with other systems (such as

home computers) since these will not be formatted correctly for the Emulator II.

Formatting not only formats the disk, but also writes the Emulator II’s operating

software (the software that tells the system how to operate).

Note: Formatting a disk that already contains data will “bulk erase” any data on the disk

being formatted. Always check that disks are either blank, or contain nothing you want to

save, before formatting. A disk need only be formatted once unless you want to use the

“bulk erase” aspect of formatting.

We recommend using 5.25” double-sided, double-density floppy disks. Avoid bargain

disks; stick to name brands such as Maxell and Dysan. Buying in quantity can save you

lots of money, so get together with other Emulator II owners and do group disk

purchases for substantial discounts.

1. Insert and latch a previously formatted Library or Performance disk in Drive 1.

2. Insert and latch the disk to be formatted in Drive 2.

3. With the Disk module active, key in 8 to FORMAT DISK. The display asks:

Which Disk Type?

1=Perf 2=library

Key in 1 and the disk in Drive 2 will be formatted as a Performance Disk; key in 2

for a Library Disk.

OK to Erase Mem?

(it’s faster) Y/N

If you press YES, anything you had in the Emulator II’s memory will be erased.

This leaves more memory for formatting, which speeds up the process. However,

if you have a great Bank but forgot to format a disk, all is not lost; you can save

what’s in memory by pressing NO (however, formatting will take quite a bit

longer). After formatting the disk save the Bank to memory (DISK 7).

Whichever you press, eventually the display asks:

Format Perf Disk

In Drive 2 (Y/N)

Format Libr Disk

In Drive 2 (Y/N)