Date   : Thu, 23 Oct 2003 05:22:02 +0100
From   : Mike Tomlinson <mike@...>
Subject: Re: Cleaning Drive heads / Disc disaster

In article <20031022105147.36570.qmail@...>, BBC
Micro <b_b_c_m_i_c_r_o@...> writes

>Had a problem while trying to read a disc. It was
>stiff in its sleave and the result was the head has
>scraped off some magnetic media. Now what is the best
>way of cleaning the (!DELICATE!)head? (assuming it is
>not damaged!)

Ispropyl alcohol (isopropanol), often shortened to IPA, and a cotton
bud, rub very gently.  The head itself is quite tough but on some drives
it is mounted on a sprung base and it is this you do not want to damage.
Try not to catch the edge or corner of the head with the tip of the bud
and distort the spring, or you will affect the drive's alignment.
Allow to dry thoroughly before using the drive.

If you cannot see any obvious build-up of muck on the head it probably
does not need cleaning.

>I have heard you can get cleaning floppies but nothing
>available in CPC catalogue...

The RS catalogue has them at an eye-watering £26+VAT.  http://rswww.com
and search for part number 201-203.

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