ERROR MESSAGE "No ID Address Mark"

I did a Google search on the error and it seems to indicate a format problem. Try formatting the floppy using Full Format instead of quick. If there is data on the disc, you probably can't recover it. Check this page http://http://www.eio.com/public/floppdrv/0283.html out.

The full text of the error message is "A:\ is not accessible.  No ID address mark was found on the floppy disk."  So I agree that it's apparently a disk problem.  But because I can't access the drive, I can't reformat any of the disks I've inserted.  So while it's telling me it's a disk problem, it's got to be something else.

sholt109,

Try this -- insert a floppy disk into the A: drive.  From Windows click START -> RUN and enter "command".  Click OK.  In the command window, type in "format a: /u/f:1440" and press   Do you get the same error message?  If not, then complete the process to format the floppy.  If so, then obtain a bootable diskette (DOS disk), insert it into the floppy drive and restart your computer.  If you cannot boot from a known good floppy disk, then the floppy disk drive is most likely failed.  Call the Dell Techies for assistance and to have the drive replaced.

Steve

This is what I got:

C:\>format a: /u/f:1440
Insert new disk for drive A:
and press ENTER when ready...
The type of the file system is RAW.
The new file system is FAT.
Verifying 1.44M
Invalid media or Track 0 bad - disk unusable.

Tried several disks.  What do you think?

sholt109,

I think that the floppy disk drive itself is bad.  It is possible (but not likely) that the floppy drive cable or power connection may be loose or bad as well.  If your system is under warranty, call the Dell Techies for assistance in getting your warranty to cover this.  If you do not have warranty, call them anyway to find out what the correct part number is for your floppy disk drive so that you can get a new one.

Steve

Thanks for your time and effort.

Steve Holt, San Diego, CA