> If you want to do a low-level format with simultaneous surface
> scan then use the Unconditional switch:   Format C: /U


Just a minor correction.

The DOS format command cannot perform a low level format on a hard drive.
That task requires specialized software.


   Quite right...thanks for the correction. And for the much better
explanation of the unconditional switch. Most machines prior to 1993 had
low-level format capabilities in the Setup, but that became highly
discouraged by the hard drive manufacturers and is now as you say available
in third party utilities (and as a last resort to revive a gasping drive).


Cheers,

Russell Smith
Edtech Consultant, Journalist
Region 14 ESC Abilene, Texas
http://www.rustysmith.com

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