[net.micro.amiga] Using 5.25" Drives and IBM Emulation

djz@cmu-cs-spice.ARPA (Daniel Zigmond) (09/06/85)

In Amiga-mode, can one still use the 5.25" drive to read and write
data?  It would be nice if the extra drive could double as a data
drive as well as being useful for IBM compatibility.  Also, in IBM-
mode, can programs make use of printers and other Amiga accessories?

	Dan

eric@topaz.RUTGERS.EDU (Eric Lavitsky) (09/11/85)

Hi,

As far as I know you can reference the 5-1/4" drive just like any external
floppy on the Amiga. IBM software will behave just like IBM software. You
will have a COM: port and maybe PRT: etc, the IBM software will have to
handle special printer drivers itself. I don't think people should be
too concerned about the PC emulation. If you're so dead set on getting
a PC compatible, then go get one - or even (yecch!) get a PC. The Amiga
was not designed to be PC compatible, it was just an afterthought (though
it does work well for what it is). The Amiga is a radically different
machine with a radically different view on what a PC should be (radical
for IBM, that is)...

Eric
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