TRS-80 Model 1 (was: Arty computers (was: Re: PDP-11/70 in Yates Center, KS)

[Chuck Guzis]

On 2 Feb 2007 at 14:42, Fred Cisin wrote:

> It usta be that there was a quite noticeable difference in reliability
> between inner and outer tracks.  We did not WANT our directory structures
> on less reliable tracks.

This was true to such an extent in the 8" SSSD days that I rewrote 
the diskette formatter to start by formatting and verifying on track 
76, figuring that it would save a lot of time.  A couple of 
manufacturers back then guaranteed their diskettes, so it was 
worthwhile saving the bad ones, particularly considering the cost of 
media.

However, it seems that modern (?!?) 3.5" DSHD diskettes fail on the 
outer tracks more frequently.  Probably just from wear and lousy 
coating formulation.

Cheers,
Chuck