Difficulty starting a PCW

To start a PCW you need to load software into its memory from a Start-of-day disc. If you don't have a start-of-day disc you simply need to get one! LocoScript Software can supply both LocoScript and CP/M Start-of-day discs. More details are in our catalogue.

If you have a start-of-day disc, to load from it simply turn on the PCW and insert the disc with Side 1 to the left/top depending on your model of PCW.

• If the screen flashes on/off and then the PCW bleeps, either the disc or your disc drive is faulty. If you send the disc to LocoScript Software for checking, we will be able to advise whether it is the disc at fault.
• If a series of horizontal lines are shown down the screen, then loading is working correctly. If the disc manager or CP/M prompt  is not displayed, then this probably means that there is a fault with the PCW itself.
• If you get the message Incompatible version it means that you are using the version of LocoScript or CP/M for a 3½" machine on a 3" machine with converted disc drives, but have no .FIB files which are needed to tell LocoScript and CP/M about your disc drives. (If it's on a PcW9256, 10 or 9512+ then you probably have .FIB files on the Start-of-day disc which are not required.)