The CMD FD-4000 Floppy Drive's Can Convert Disks from HD (1.4MB) to ED (3.2MB)

The CMD FD-4000 floppy drive, set to be legally recreated in 2024, can convert standard HD (1.4MB) disks into ED (3.2MB) disks, which are scarce and difficult to find. This conversion process is significant for users of Commodore 8-bit machines, as ED disks have historically been in limited supply. The conversion requires drilling a hole in the HD disk and covering the original hole with tape, followed by using CMD's FD Tools software to format the disk to 3.2MB. Users have reported varying success rates with this process, with some achieving high success while others struggle. Cleaning the drive heads has been suggested as a potential solution to improve formatting success. The FD-4000 drive is noted for its bright LEDs and compatibility with CMD software, which allows users to log and format disks efficiently. However, the conversion is exclusive to the FD-4000, meaning converted disks cannot be used in other systems. The ability to create ED disks from HD disks is crucial for maximizing the FD-4000's capabilities, especially given the current scarcity of ED disks. Users are encouraged to experiment with different brands of disks and to maintain their drives for optimal performance. Overall, the CMD FD-4000 offers a unique solution for retro computing enthusiasts looking to expand their storage options.