In Windows 98, how do I use Fdisk to create a single FAT16 partition on a hard drive smaller than 2GB?
Note: UITS recommends that you use a current version of Windows on computers connected to the Indiana University network; see Recommended Windows operating systems at IU.
Warning: The use of Fdisk will permanently erase all data from the drive or drives on which it is used. You should only attempt this procedure if you have a fairly high level of computer literacy. If you follow these instructions incorrectly you could lose data or cause your computer not to function properly.
The steps listed below are for creating a single FAT16 partition on a hard drive that is 2.1GB or smaller. FAT16 is primarily designed for DOS, Windows 3.1, and Windows 95, whereas FAT32 is designed primarily for Windows 98.
The Windows 98 startup disk also includes CD-ROM support for the most common CD-ROM drives. This allows access to the CD-ROM drive during installation, which makes installing the operating system and additional programs more manageable. While it is easier to use a Windows 98 startup disk because of the CD-ROM driver support, you can also use any Windows 95 emergency disk, instead.
Some proprietary CD-ROM drives do not work with the Windows 98 floppy disk. Known problems occur with many Packard Bell models as well as many older computer models.
Test your Windows 98 startup disk:
