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available for test, what tests are available for the device, device properties, and so
on. To change testing parameters, you modify the FDAT.INI file in PC Doctor for
DOS.
FDAT consists of the following subtests and features.
Fixed-Disk Tests:
v Seek Tests: - checks the physical operation of the drive head.
– Linear Seek
– Random Seek
– Min-Max Seek
– Butterfly Seek
v
Verify Tests: - checks the integrity of the data present on the media.
– Linear Verify
– Random Verify
v
Surface Scan Tests: - checks the drive media for defects.
– Surface Scan (Linear)
– Surface Scan (Aggressive) - this is disabled for normal customer use.
– Surface Scan (Random)
v
Self-monitoring, Analysis and Reporting Technology (SMART) - checks the
SMART functionality for drives that support SMART.
– Start SMART Self-Test
Other
Test Features:
v Write-Splice Repair - detects and corrects Error Correction Code errors during
Verify tests.
v Auto Spin Down - a gradual spin down of the drive platters to avoid damaging
the media.
v Manufacturer Log - an in-depth manufacturer supported log of errors on the
drive.
Multitasking:
To allow simultaneous testing of multiple hard drives whenever possible, the
FDAT module is written as a set of multitasking functions. Each drive under test
can run the same test or run a different test at the same time. Each subtest is
written to handle a single test pass and all test variables are kept track of in a
structure unique for each drive.
However, when testing IDE drives, FDAT will not perform simultaneous testing of
IDE drives that are attached to the same IDE cable. For example, if FDAT is testing
four IDE drives on a PC, it will perform simultaneous testing on drives 1 and 3
first (master drives), then perform tests on 2 and 4 (slave drives). FDAT will also
perform simultaneous testing on a master and slave that are on separate IDE
cables, but will not perform simultaneous tests on a master and slave on the same
IDE cable. This generally increases the amount of time needed to test multiple IDE
drives.
Another limitation of FDAT’S multitasking capability is the use of Ultra DMA
(UDMA). Only one drive at a time can access the UDMA channel and the UDMA
52 Hardware Maintenance Manual