Floppy Drive A problems

[mjt_cgc]

I cannot use floppy drive "A" in Windows 98 using Explorer. However, I can boot the computer using the Win98 boot disk from the "A" drive. I can also use the drive if I boot into dos.

So far I've removed the drive and the controller in the device manager, and then reinstalled each. There is only one instance of each in the device manager. I've even installed a new floppy drive. The problem continues.

Michael

[tjaymadison]

Well, obviously the drive itself seems OK, so you must have used the far end of the data cable, with the little twist before the connector. Check in your BIOS setup program to be sure that the "Swap Floppy Drive" option isn't enabled. Also in Device Manager, is the drive actually assigned letter A: and does the status box say "... working properly"? Do you have any other removable drives like Zip or LS-120? Are you overclocking?

If it were mine, I'd try this. Disconnect the floppy data and power cables. Power up, go to BIOS setup and disable the floppy controller. It may also be necessary to change the boot sequence to one that doesn't have A: in it, or at least not first. Disable "Floppy Seek" if necessary. If you have an item like "Reset Configuration/ECSD Data" (look in the PnP section), set it to Enabled, save changes and exit. Assuming a complete boot, don't do anything, just exit Windows normally and shutdown. Re-cable the drive, reverse all the the BIOS changes, and let 'er rip! http://www.PCGuide.com/ubb/biggrin.gif

[mjt_cgc]

I verified all of the items in your first paragraph and everything checked out. I was about to start with the items in paragraph two. However, I thought I would test drive "A" one more time. To my surprise it has suddenly started to function. Very strange given the fact that I have changed nothing.

I do appreciate the suggestion. Problem solved.....for reasons unknown.

Michael