![]() |
Using SYS A: Versus FORMAT /S To Create Boot |
The information in this document applies to:
WordPerfect® 5.1 for DOS
Problem
Symptoms: Why is it better to use FORMAT /S to create a boot disk than to use SYS A:? Solutions: SYS is not consistent from one version of DOS to another. It will not make a bootable disk by itself in many situations. There are some situations where it will work, but it's best to use solutions that work in 100% of all cases, if possible. FORMAT /S will work in every case, regardless of DOS version. In MS-DOS 5.x and 6.x, SYS A: will make a bootable disk. In MS-DOS 1.x through 4.x, it will not. SYS only copies the two hidden system files to the floppy. You must then manually copy COMMAND.COM to the floppy or it won't boot. In early DOS versions, SYS will only copy the system files to the floppy if the floppy was previously formatted using a special command that left space for the system files. If not, the floppy disk had to be reformatted using FORMAT /S. SYS does not verify the floppy diskette for errors. It's worthless to have a boot disk with bad sectors. Bad sectors can mean the media is failing. If the hard drive won't boot and the boot disk fails too, what does the customer do now? SYS does not erase existing files. Existing files can sometimes be the source of confusion. It's best to make a boot disk that contains only the boot files and other necessary drivers and utilities. There have been some situations where a technician used an incorrect procedure to make a boot disk, which then failed. The customer then becomes frustrated with the waste of time and sometimes the customer becomes escalated. Using FORMAT /S will work in every case and will help avoid customers from becoming escalated. You should always use drive A:, and always use the command FORMAT A: /S. Those two suggestions will always work. FORMAT A: /S is the best solution to the problem. SYS A: will work sometimes, but it is not the best solution, even when it will work. |
Answer:
Details:
Product specifications, packaging, technical support and information (*Specifications*) refer to theUnited States retail English version only. Specifications for other versions may vary. All Specifications, claims, features, representations, and/or comparisons provided are correct to the best of our knowledge of the date of publication, but are subject to change without notice.OUR MAXIMUM AGGREGATE LIABILITY TO YOU AND THAT OF OUR DEALERS AND SUPPLIERS IS LIMITED. IT SHALL NOTEXCEED THE AMOUNT YOU PAID TO ACCESS THE INFORMATION. SEE LEGAL DISCLAIMER. |