Zip drives

[bujin]

I am thinking about buying a Zip drive for my computer to store large files that I download from the Internet, such as patches, drivers, etc...

I would appreciate it if you would provide me with your opinions on Zip drives, and if there are any better alternatives for this purpose.

Thanks

 

[butchrecon]

For the money I would say a Zip drive should work fine. Another option is an LS120. These are 120 meg "floppy" drives. They also will see 1.44 floppy drives. Another option is to purchase a CDRW and use it. Its more expensive than the other two. BUT the CDs are about 2 bucks each. LS120 and Zip disks can be up to 15 to 20 bucks.

 

[edfair]

This is my choice, using an external parallel port type. But I have some unique requirements. I also have burner capabilities but I don't use it for this type of work since I sometimes have to transfer stuff back the other way. Ed Fair
efair@atlnet.com

Any advice I give is my best judgement based on my interpretation of the facts you supply.

Help increase my knowledge by providing some feedback, good or bad, on any advice I have given.

 

[zefir]

Two new computers, two new ZIP 100.
They can´t read old disks. No help by the manufacturer,
endless not understandable installing directives, though
this should work automatically. Using Win98.
First try, then buy - or not . G.Hoffmann

 

[Redneck]

Recommend the internal Zip 250. It'll take both 100 and 250 disk. Cost less than $100. Also if you have computer at work that you use and need to transfer large files to/from home, this is a good solution. I find more people with zip than 120 drives.

Redneck

 

[ketamine]

I've used ZIP drives for years, and my advice is to AVOID using Zip drives.
Reason:
Just one defective zip disc WILL RUIN your zip drive.
I've had 2 crap out on me like this.

Other Zip users....
Is there a fix for zip drives, or are these things disposable?
I've had many cases where I load a new zip disk
into my *working perfectly*, and I'm met with this horrible sound...
"clank, clank, clank",, and the drive is ruined.

Thanks

 

[KingMalik]

I would like to say the zip drive are ok medium for storing and transfering information. The one thing I have noticed is that they are very slow. I have had the zip 100 now for about 2 years and use it as a back up drive.

Ever since I got my cdrw I use that now for patches and other stuff. On: it is much much faster, Two: you can hold more information, Three: its cheaper in the long run
Four: everybody have at least a cd-rom

Malik

 

[elziko]

I think Zip disks are far to expensive as a storage medium. Just buy another big Hard Drive to store all your downloads & patches etc.

However for transporting to and from several computers (ie. work and home) they are perfect. I manage with just three disks (I never need to transport more than 300 meg).