Floppy disk drives are used to read data from and record data onto floppy disks. Although most software now comes on CD, floppy disks can be used to boot computers and transfer small files. Floppy disk drives do not require any drivers and can be installed on almost any computer.

Performance isn't really an issue when selecting a floppy drive because speed generally doesn't vary between models. Since floppy drives are fairly reliable devices, you probably will never need to replace one that works. Floppy disk drive technology has remained the same for years, but the SuperDisk drive has recently emerged as an alternative. SuperDisk drives accept both standard 3.5" floppy disks and 120 megabyte SuperDisks. Regular floppy drives can be found between $10 and $50, while most SuperDisk drives are priced between $45 and $100.

A Phillips screwdriver and about 15 minutes of time are required to install a floppy disk drive.

Click here for a list of links to floppy disk drive manufacturers.
 

the installation

1. Make sure the computer is turned off.

2. Carefully disconnect all of the cables from the back of your computer, place the computer on a stable working platform, and remove the outer case. Discharge any static electricity from your body by touching the computer's power supply.

3. If you are replacing another floppy drive, remove the mounting screws, the floppy cable, and the power cable from the old drive. Slide the drive out the front of the computer.

4. Slide the new floppy drive through the front of the computer, then secure it with mounting screws.

5. Locate a free power cable with the appropriate connector and plug it into the new floppy drive. Use a floppy cable to connect the drive to the floppy connector on the motherboard.

6. Replace the outer case and move the computer back to its original location. Reconnect all of the cables.

7. Start up the computer. The initial BIOS output should indicate in some way that the new drive was recognized. If the the drive does not work, turn off the computer, check the connections, and try again. If the drive still does not work, contact the manufacturer.