IBM 2179, User Manual

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Using diskettes
You can use 3.5-inch diskettes in the diskette drive of your computer. Data is
stored on the magnetic surface of the diskette. This surface is protected by a
plastic cover.
Handling and storing diskettes
Inside the protective diskette case is a flexible disk with a magnetic-sensitive
coating. This disk can be damaged by heat, dust, a magnetic field, or even a
fingerprint. Use the following guidelines when handling and storing diskettes:
v
If the cover is damaged, do not use the diskette. A damaged diskette might
damage the diskette drive.
v
A protective slide on the top of a 3.5-inch diskette covers part of the
magnetic surface. The diskette drive moves this slide to read data from or
write data to the diskette. Do not move this slide, because fingerprints and
dust can cause loss of data.
v
Never touch the magnetic disk itself.
v
A magnetic field can erase the data on your diskettes. Keep diskettes away
from magnets or devices that create a strong magnetic field, such as electric
motors and generators. Diskettes are sensitive to magnets found in television
sets, telephones, stereo speakers, and other such items. Do not set diskettes
on the monitor or use magnets to attach notes to your computer.
v
Do not store diskettes at extremely high or low temperatures, or in direct
sunlight. Temperatures ranging from 4 to 53 degrees C (39 to 127 degrees F)
are acceptable for 3.5-inch diskettes. Keep diskettes away from heat. The
plastic outer covering might warp, damaging the diskette.
Inserting and removing diskettes
To insert a 3.5-inch diskette, hold the diskette with the label facing up and
insert the end with the protective slide first as shown in the following
illustration. Push the diskette into the diskette drive until the diskette clicks
into place.
To remove the diskette, press the eject button
1
and slide the diskette out of
the drive. Do not remove the diskette while the in-use light
2
is on.
Chapter 3. Operating and caring for your computer
19