[Coco] Floppy weirdness

[Robert Gault]

David Roper wrote:
> Hi All,
>
> I've finally found space to hook my coco stuff back up
>
> I'm trying to format some disks using DSKINI, however I think
> something is going haywire somewhere
>
> After issuing the command DSKINI 0 (or 1, same results either way) I
> get the first drive access/seek/grind tone, and then nothing audible
> except for the sound of the disk spinning. I've left it for a good 10
> minutes and nothing appears to be happening
>
> If I use DIR on any of my disks, I get the usual group of 3 or 4
> access/seek/grind tones, but DSKINI only throws the one, and then
> hangs
>
> Any ideas on how I can further diagnose what's wrong, so I can get up
> and running again?
>
> - David
>

You need to be sure you have the necessary hardware. That means identifying 
which floppy controller you have as some require +-12vDC which a Coco3 will not 
supply. An MPI will supply the +-12v or you can add a small power supply to the 
Coco3.

Make sure the disk is spinning at 300rpm. Any drive should have a strobe pattern 
on the flywheel. Make sure the index hole lamp is functioning. I've seen one 
come loose from the support clip.
Check that the drive head can slide easily on the rails. Lubricate if necessary.

Is the dip switch, if present in the drive, set for the correct drive number? Is 
there a termination resistor pack on the last drive and only the last drive?

If you have any good disks with files, can they be read?

Use a multimeter to check the ribbon cable continuity.

=============
You should be able to DSKINI a disk in 1-2 minutes.