[no subject]

Note:  While I have no first-hand knowledge of how this process works, I 
know that it's at least mostly possible.

A Linux kernel compiled with "IDE Taskfile" in the kernel is capable of 
reaching really low-level into the drive, in theory bypassing the levels 
that recognize read/write errors.  If that's 100% correct, that means 
that you should be able to erase most, if not all, of the drive's 
contents by writing to the taskfile device that is created.

As I understand it, however, this is essentially giving you "raw" access 
to the drive, meaning that you must issue the commands yourself for 
performing actions.  This gives you the possibility of "low-level 
formatting" the drive (which nowadays, if attempted, generally renders 
the drive totally inoperable).  You can also do a crazy number of things 
like attempt to force the heads too far -- though the firmware may stop 
you if you try that.  It used to be possible in the dark ages.  :-)

    Good luck,
    Mike


</pre>
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<ul><li><em>From:</em> hscast at charter.net (Scott Castaline)</li></ul></li>
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