A PCI IDE controller card is a handy thing to have installed if your newer computer only supports Serial ATA storage drives. It allows you to hook up and use older, IDE and EIDE devices with ease. However, controller cards that aren't part of your motherboard's integrated controller may not work as easily in DOS. Keep reading for some tips on make it work.
The DOS Prompt
Using Windows, there are a few ways to access MS-DOS. If you use Windows XP, the only way to access it is by using the "Command Prompt" program, located under "Accessories" in the Start Menu. It is not a true DOS, but an emulated version. Therefore, any drive that is working in Windows should work in this emulated environment.
If you use Windows 95 or 98, however, the situation is slightly more complicated. Since these operating systems still use MS-DOS as their core, the DOS command prompt can be accessed by exiting Windows and choosing to exit to the command prompt, or by restarting your system and pressing "F8" while it's booting. You'll have the option of running Windows in Safe Mode or booting to a command prompt. Upon exiting Windows, the CD, DVD, and sound drivers are sometimes installed, but IDE controllers are not usually included.
Emulated vs Non-Emulated
It is important to recognize the difference between emulated and non-emulated DOS prompts. In an emulated environment, Windows runs in the background and most common sound, video and controller drivers are available for use. In an non-emulated DOS environment, Windows is not running and no devices will work properly unless you get specific, DOS-compatible drivers for your drives and controller cards.
Controller Card Drivers
Depending on the brand and age of your IDE controller card, it may or may not have been supplied with DOS drivers. If you're running non-emulated DOS, the best way to see if your controller's driver is installed is to type the letter of the drive name, followed by a colon. (For example, type E: and press enter.) If you get an error message, insert a disk (either CD or 3.5-inch floppy) and install them manually. If your controller card didn't come with DOS-specific drivers, visit the manufacturer's website and see if they're available for download.
Tags: command prompt, environment Windows, your controller, controller card, controller cards, emulated environment, emulated environment Windows