Imaging Floppy Disks with KryoFlux (draft)

Owned by Monique Lassere (Unlicensed)
Last updated: Sept 23, 2022

These instructions (particularly the installation and set up instructions) are largely based on the Archivist's Guide to KryoFlux.  

Important Notes:

  • The KryoFlux board controller must be placed on a non-conductive surface while it is in use. Do not place on anti-static bag it came in. 
  • The floppy disk drive should be placed so that it is lightly raised and the spinning mechanism does not touch the table, allowing airflow. 
  • Ensure write-blocking functionality is turned on by removing the jumper for the write gate (see here).  

Table of Contents

Installing the KryoFlux

In-depth installation instructions for Windows, Mac, and Linux machines can be found in the Archivist's Guide to KryoFlux. Please be advised that 3.5" drives must be set up first in order for the KryoFlux to be set up with 5.25" drives. While some 8" drives work with the KryoFlux, this has not yet been tested at Houghton. 

Connecting the KryoFlux

The Kryoflux must be connected and disconnected in a specific order to avoid damage to the board. 

  1. Connect drive to board via data cable/floppy drive cable. For both 3.5" and 5.25" drives, pin 1 must face left when the front of the drive is facing away from you. 
    1. On the KryoFlux side, the cable's first pin should be on the right if viewing the board with the cable connector closes to you (see here). 
  2. Connect KryoFlux board to computer via USB cable
  3. Connect the floppy drive to the power last. 

Imaging Disks using the KryoFlux GUI

  1. Double-click the KryoFlux GUI icon
  2. Type the Item Number for the floppy disk you will be imaging in the only available text field. 
  3. Select the format dependent on the type of floppy disk you are imaging. 
    1. Most floppy disks in our backlog are MFM sector disks, and you will choose this format for imaging the disk. 
    2. If selecting multiple formats, hold down the 'Shift' key to do so. 
  4. Click 'Start' to begin the imaging process. 
  5. The GUI will indicate which sectors pass (green) or fail (red). This data will also be retained in the log that is automatically created with each disk. 

Batch Imaging via the Disk Tool Console 

Disconnecting the KryoFlux

  1. Disconnect the floppy drive's power supply.
  2. Eject and disconnect the USB cable.
  3. Disconnect the data cable/floppy drive cable.