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Running Scandisk

Contents

• Introduction
• Step by Step Instructions

Introduction

ScanDisk is a diagnostic tool for detecting errors on the hard disk and for recovering lost clusters (parts of files) on the disk. It should be run at least once a month, preferably prior to defragmenting the disk. Before running ScanDisk, it is recommended that you carry out a full or partial backup of your hard disk. You should also close any open applications and disable your screen saver (right-click on the Desktop, select Properties, click on the Screen Saver tab and set the screen saver to "None").

Step by Step Instructions

Checking for Lost Clusters

1. Click the Start menu on the Taskbar and select Programs, Accessories, System Tools and then ScanDisk. The following screen will be displayed:

   

2. Make sure that your hard disk (drive C:) is highlighted and that the type of test is set to standard. Also make sure that Automatically fix errors is ticked. Click Start. ScanDisk will now run. When the operation is complete, the results will be displayed:

   

3. If ScanDisk finds lost clusters, it will place them in your root directory with the file extension CHK. These files should now be deleted.

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Thorough Test of Hard Disk

1. Click the Start menu on the Taskbar and select Programs, Accessories, System Tools and then ScanDisk.

2. Make sure that your hard disk (drive C:) is highlighted and that the type of test is set to Thorough. Click Start. The following screen will be displayed:

   

3. If ScanDisk finds lost clusters, it will place them in your root directory with the file extension CHK. These files should be deleted.

4. If ScanDisk finds any other type of error such as "bad sectors", this may be a sign that your hard disk is failing in which case you should phone for advice.