Some Important Things to Remember When Managing Floppy Disks
Things to keep in mind when handling floppy disks include treatment, cleaning, storage, exposure to magnets, and formatting strategies.
Floppy disks were very popular electronic storage tools a few decades ago. Although there are other more effective ways to store data nowadays, there are actually still a few floppy disks available in stores. These disks when handled very well, can last for several years. Read this article to know more about how to take care of them.
Treatment
It is important that 5.25-inch floppy disks should be treated gently, so they can last a long time. The fragility of floppy disks is what makes them very vulnerable to physical damage, especially when you slip them into the drive quite rashly. Their structure makes them simple to bend or fold, which also destroys the data which are stored in them easily. With just one miscalculated slip, they could be destroyed forever, along with the data they contain. Always apply care when you transfer them from one place to another. The part of the disk that can be seen clearly at the bottom side must also never be touched. The other types of floppy diskettes, such as the SuperDisks and the 3.5 inch floppies, can be treated a bit roughly when compared to the 5.25-inch diskettes because of their hard plastic casings. Nevertheless, the aluminum cover at the base side must also never be slid back, so as not to expose the sensitive disk inside to potential damage. Moreover, when floppy disks are not in use, they must be kept inside their floppy disk holders to avoid collecting dust and exposure to possible environmental dangers.
Cleaning
Floppy disks do not require extensive cleaning. To clean them, all you need to do is to get a dry, lint-free rug and use it to make a quick wipe on the surface area of the floppy disk. Never use liquid cleaners or water because these could get through the openings of the floppy and could damage the sensitive disk inside. Although you can dry out a floppy disk when it's exposed to any liquid, there's no guarantee that all data inside it is saved.
Storage
There are many environmental components which can destroy a floppy disk; therefore, the right place for their storage is vital. They cannot be put on a location where they're under direct sunlight or near the heater since the heat can melt them. They need to also be kept away from moisture to prevent mold from forming on them. Furthermore, you should also ensure that they aren't placed on surfaces where liquids could accidentally spill on them.
Exposure to magnets
Diskettes are made of magnetic media, and, when these are exposed to magnets or when they're placed near a magnet, the data they contain could be affected or even erased. Therefore, always make sure that your diskettes stay as far as possible from magnets or any items that have magnets.
Formatting methods
It is essential that you know the kind of floppy disk you've before you format it. Some disks only allow one side for formatting, although you can still use the other side. Nonetheless, if you do this, don't be surprised if there is a change in your disk's storage size. It is advisable to read the instructions of the company first, and then select which one suits your needs best.
If you're planning to use a floppy disk, make sure that your computer is equipped with a floppy disk drive.
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