55
Frequently asked questions
1. Do I have to use IBM DriveGuide Easy Installation Software to partition and
format my hard drive?
No. You may use Fdisk and Format or similar partitioning software from your operating
system to partition and format your hard disk drive. Refer to the section of the Appendix
titled Fdisk and Format.
2. How can I obtain full capacity from my IBM Deskstar?
If LBA or Large options are not available in your system’s BIOS, you can:
•
Contact your BIOS manufacturer for an upgrade.
•
Install an ATA/IDE controller card with an onboard BIOS that supports larger drive
capacities.
•
Use DriveGuide to complete installation of your IBM Deskstar.
3. How do I know if my system has the components necessary to obtain Ultra
ATA/100 or Ultra ATA/66 interface transfer rates?
The following system components are required to obtain Ultra ATA/100 or Ultra ATA/66
interface transfer rates:
•
40 pin, 80 conductor ATA/IDE cable
The connectors of this cable are color-coded. The black connector is for Master, gray
is for Slave, and blue is for the ATA/IDE connector of the motherboard or controller
card. The 40 pin, 80 conductor ATA/IDE cable is the same width as a standard IDE
cable, however, each individual conductor is half the diameter of a standard IDE
cable conductor.
•
A controller card or motherboard chipset with Ultra ATA/100 or Ultra ATA/66 capability
Refer to your controller card or system manual to determine if your system is
Ultra ATA/100 or Ultra ATA/66 compatible or contact your controller card or
motherboard manufacturer.
•
Ultra ATA/100 or Ultra ATA//66 compatible BIOS
Refer to your system manual or contact your BIOS manufacturer to determine if your
BIOS is compatible.
4. Why is a 40 pin, 80 conductor ATA/IDE cable necessary for attachment of an
Ultra ATA/100 or Ultra ATA/66 device?
The added ground cables provide shielding and reduce crosstalk for higher frequency
interfaces. If an Ultra ATA/100 or Ultra ATA/66 motherboard does not detect a 40 pin, 80
conductor cable and an Ultra ATA/100 or Ultra ATA/66 drive, the higher transfer rates
provided by these interfaces are not available.
5. How will a drive that supports Ultra ATA/100 or Ultra ATA/66 run in a slower
system?
The IBM Deskstar drive is capable of Ultra ATA/100 or Ultra ATA/66 (UDMA mode 4)