Removable disk storage had many uses: backup of some other storage,
moving files between computers, distribution of software, a bootable disk.
This last use could be a rescue disk. When a computer is powered on
the BIOS (Basic Input Output System) in ROM (Read Only Memory) on the
mother board takes control and tries to boot an operating system.
Until quite recently it first tried the floppy disk drive, then the CD ROM,
and finally the hard disk drive. Trying in this order meant that if a computer
failed to boot from the hard drive, a rescue disk could be inserted in the floppy
or CD drive.
The Newcastle collection is by no means comprehensive
and these are just a selection of eight of what we have.
Click on a thumbnail to see more.
