I'm trying to get dial-up internet set up on my Amstrad PPC640 so I can install some software. Unfortunately, my USB floppy drives aren't compatible with double density (DD) disks, and my landline is disconnected. I'm looking for any creative solutions to get this done without having to buy a Greaseweazle or null modem adapter. Any suggestions?
2 Answers
Have you tried using the command line in Windows to format your disks instead of the GUI? Just open Command Prompt and use 'FORMAT A: /f:720' for true DD disks. If you're struggling with HD disks, you can try taping over the HD hole, but it's not the most reliable method. Also, since your PPC640 has an RS-232C port, you could look into null modem connections between two PCs, although setting up a terminal on the PPC640 might be tricky.
You might want to consider using an emulator, like ESP or Pi. They can sometimes help bridge the gap when it comes to older systems like yours.
I’ve had trouble with that too! My drives only handle HD disks. I’ve been scammed a few times by sellers claiming their drives support DD but they don’t. The tape method didn’t work for me either; my drives just ignored the disks after that. As for the null modem, I found one for £3 with free next day delivery, which made me feel a bit silly for waiting so long to check!