601 Seek Test POST error on IBM XT (HxC Gotek)

[bjt]

Hi Jeff

I have my HxC Gotek connected to an IBM XT.
During boot the XT performs a seek test.
Occasionally, the seek test will fail and return a 601 error.

The seek test performs the following:

- Spindle motor on
- Seek to track 0, if error stop spindle and return 601
- Seek to track 34, if error stop spindle and return 601

Regardless of the 601 error the Gotek works in DOS.

Any ideas? Thanks

[Jeff]

Hi Jeff

I have my HxC Gotek connected to an IBM XT.
During boot the XT performs a seek test.
Occasionally, the seek test will fail and return a 601 error.

The seek test performs the following:

- Spindle motor on
- Seek to track 0, if error stop spindle and return 601
- Seek to track 34, if error stop spindle and return 601

Regardless of the 601 error the Gotek works in DOS.

Any ideas? Thanks

Are you using the latest firmware version ? (3.0.6.0a)
Are you using the direct access mode before this error ?

[bjt]

Yes, this still occurs with 3.0.6.0a.
It happens from a cold boot (no direct access beforehand).

I have been trying to find a pattern to the 601 errors.
Most of the time they seem intermittent.
However, at one stage I had a repeatable case where:

- No USB stick inserted: 601 error
- USB stick inserted, valid image selected: no 601 error

However, I have since had cases where I see 601 with an image selected.
Is it possible that the Gotek isn't responding to the POST seek commands quickly enough?

[bjt]

After some experimentation, I think the XT BIOS floppy POST is only compatible with original IBM floppy controllers. The 601 error doesn't happen with the original controller, only with a third-party controller. So, I don't think it's anything to do with the Gotek.

I've bypassed the floppy POST now = no errors