[ INDIVIDUAL COMPONENT // FLOPPY DRIVES ]
IBM 5.25-inch 360 KB PC floppy drive
IBM PC double-density floppy mechanism. This record describes this specific product, standard, or clearly identified family; it is not a claim that every product sold under a similar name shares these specifications.
IDENTIFICATION WARNING: Match the complete model/part number and revision to its label and manual. Family-level entries may cover revisions; values marked “common” are not guaranteed for every unit.
Specifications
| Catalog subcategory | 5.25-inch PC floppy drives |
|---|---|
| Catalog identity | IBM 5.25-inch 360 KB PC floppy drive |
| Era / family | IBM PC double-density floppy mechanism |
| Key specifications | 5.25-inch half-height; 360 KB PC disk format; 300 RPM typical; 34-pin Shugart-style interface |
| Interfaces / mechanical | Use double-density media/controller configuration, correct drive select, termination, and cable orientation |
| Compatibility and variants | Later 1.2 MB high-density drives can read 360 KB media imperfectly without correct alignment. |
| Use / service note | Inspect condition, revision markings, firmware or configuration, connectors, and any prior repair. For preservation, record photographs of labels and board markings before cleaning or disassembly. |
Identification & compatibility checks
- Photograph manufacturer, full model number, revision, serial/date codes, connector faces, and included brackets or cables before installation.
- Confirm electrical interface, connector pinout, physical dimensions, power requirements, firmware/driver support, and the host device’s documented compatibility.
- Do not infer compatibility from a shared brand, socket silhouette, connector shape, or marketing family name. Revisions and regional SKUs may differ.
- When a unit’s identity is uncertain, compare component markings against the manufacturer manual and avoid applying power until the pinout and condition are known.
Context & archival notes
Later 1.2 MB high-density drives can read 360 KB media imperfectly without correct alignment.
Useful collection fields: exact model and revision; manufacture date; board/assembly identifiers; firmware; accessories; condition; known faults; source of acquisition; and the document revision used to verify this entry. Any measured result should include test setup and method.
Sources & further reading
- IBM PC Technical Reference — Bitsavers archivePrimary or standards reference for this component family; confirm the full model number and revision.
- Library of Congress — Digital preservation formatsPrimary or standards reference for this component family; confirm the full model number and revision.
Source notes point to standards bodies, manufacturers, or archival records. Some sources cover a family rather than this exact revision; the manufacturer datasheet/manual for the full part number takes precedence.