Hard disk: You can also start up Apple IIGS applications from a hard disk. You'll learn more about hard disks in Chapter 6.
The standard information storage medium for the Apple IIGS is the 3.5-inch disk because it is compact and sturdy, and has almost six times the storage capacity of a 5.25-inch disk. But the Apple IIGS works just fine with 5.25-inch disks, so if you have a library of them, there's no reason not to use them with the Apple IIGS. The important thing is that you have the right kind of disk drive to match your disks.
Besides using disks to start up applications, you'll use disks to store documents. Document is a generic term for anything you create with an application. It could be a memo, a budget, a graph, a picture, and so on. Initially, application program disks are more valuable than the blank disks you buy for storing documents; but once a disk has your documents on it, it becomes as valuable as the time you spent creating the documents. That's why it's important to take good care of disks. Read about the are and handling of disks in the manual that came with your disk drive. And keep these points in mind:
Figure 1-1
Software
Documents are also called files.
- Make backup copies of important disks. Copying disks is explained in the system disk guide.
- Keep disks away from hot places (like the dashboard of your car on a sunny day).
- Keep disks away from magnets (and devices like telephones that use magnets).
- Protect disks from dust (Store them upright and covered, either in a plastic disk holder or in a shoe box.)
- Keep disks dry. (Don't water plants over them or get sloppy with your coffee.)
