> 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 PCBUILD's List Owner's: Bob Wright<[log in to unmask]> Drew Dunn<[log in to unmask]>