Installing an IDE/PATA boot hard drive Choose the correct sequence to prepare a new drive so it will boot DOS/Windows on a classic PC.

Introduction / Context:
Proper IDE/PATA setup ensures the BIOS recognizes the drive and the OS can boot. The classic DOS/Windows installation flow requires correct hardware configuration followed by partitioning and formatting steps that place system files on the boot volume.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• Legacy IDE hardware with Master/Slave/Cable-Select jumpers.
• BIOS supports auto-detection of drive geometry.
• We need a bootable primary partition with system files.

Concept / Approach:

The correct order is: configure jumpers; ensure BIOS detects the drive; create partitions with FDISK (or similar); perform a high-level format that writes a filesystem and transfers system files (format /s in DOS). Low-level formats are factory operations on modern drives and are not part of user setup.

Step-by-Step Solution:

Verification / Alternative check:

Classic installation guides and OEM manuals list this sequence; deviations often result in non-bootable systems.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:

Options including low-level format are outdated for user procedures. Partitioning must precede formatting. A “regular format” without /s may omit boot files on pure DOS setups.

Common Pitfalls:

Forgetting to set the partition active; mixing Master/Slave jumpers; assuming BIOS sees the disk without detection; skipping the system file transfer step on bare DOS installs.

Final Answer:

jumper properly, auto-detect (or configure manually) in CMOS, partition, high-level format with /s switch.