[comp.sys.ibm.pc] 3.5" disk on Tandy 1200HD

pt@geovision.uucp (Paul Tomblin) (02/21/90)

I've got a very old Tandy 1200HD (The 5 slotter with the 256K motherboard),
which over the years I've upgraded with a multifunction card, switched to a
20MB hard disk, added a modem.

Now, I'm getting a PS/2-80 on my desk at work to play with porting Unix
software to AIX.  I'd also like to use it for some DOS work.  To facilitate
file transfer, (2400 Baud gets old fast), I'd like to add a 3.5" disk to my
venerable old Tandy.  

Unfortunately, Radio Shit refuses to answer my questions, because they don't
sell the upgrade.  (I went through the same hassle with the 20Mb drive
upgrade, I had to buy a new controller because they wouldn't tell me if the
old one could format a disk at 20Mb)  I know they didn't build these beasts,
but they sold them, they should support them.

My question is: Can I add a 3.5" disk drive to this machine?  Will the BIOS
support it?  Do I need driver software?  Will I need a new controller, and
will the new controller drive my old 5.25" drive as well?

Thanks for any help.  I'll summarize if I find out anything.
-- 
Paul Tomblin nrcaer!cognos!geovision!pt or uunet!geovision!pt
Life: Loath it or ignore it, you can't like it.  (Marvin)
(My employer may not agree with my opinions, especially my .signature)