IBM/Xebec HDD Controller - Low-Level Format Via Advanced Diagnostics Disk


This procedure requires that you possess a suitable version of the ADVANCED DIAGNOSTICS floppy.
Version 2.02 and later supports the IBM 5160, and so that is what you need.
If required, click here for an image of version 2.2 of that floppy.


1.  Boot from the ADVANCED DIAGNOSTICS floppy (version 2.02 or later).

2.  At the first menu, choose  0  (for System Checkout)

3.  WAIT ... there will be a long period, including a time of no floppy drive activity. Be patient. Eventually, a menu will appear.

4.  Enter  Y   [ the list is correct ]

5.  Enter  0   [ to select option 0 - RUN TESTS ONE TIME ]

6.  Enter  17   [ to select the Fixed Disk ]

7.  Enter  2   [ to select option 2 - FORMAT FIXED DISK ]

8.  Enter  C   [ to select drive C: ]

9.  Enter  Y

Low-level formatting will start. You will see the hard drive's access light turn on, and stay on for the duration of the format.
Low-level formatting will take a few minutes.