For x86-based computers and RISC-based computers, you should create a floppy disk to use to start Windows NT if you cannot start up from the hard disk. For x86-based computers, you can also create a bootable floppy disk that you can use to start MS-DOS if you cannot start Windows NT.
Creating each floppy disk requires two steps:
After you create the Windows NT startup floppy disk or the MS-DOS bootable floppy disk, run a virus scan program to make sure the disk is not infected. Lock the floppy disk after you finish running the virus scan. (Most floppy disks have a tab on their back side that you slide down to lock the disk. You cannot write on a floppy disk when the tab is in the locked position.)
You should test each disk before you have to use it. You should also be familiar with using the programs that you copy to the floppy disks.
Depending on your disk configuration and whether you are using an x86-based computer or a RISC-based computer, you might also have to create alternate boot selections to your Windows NT startup floppy disk. For a description of the ARC pathname conventions that you need to use in boot selections, see "Understanding ARC Pathnames," presented earlier in this chapter.
Whenever possible, you should use an ARC pathname created by Windows NT Setup during an installation. When in doubt, install a copy of Windows NT onto the disk that you want to use for the boot partition, and then copy that ARC pathname, changing the partition number and folder name as necessary.