Knowledge Base

Err Msg with Adaptec 1542c: Cannot Write to Drive C

Article ID: 103914

Article Last Modified on 12/8/2003

Microsoft Windows 3.1 Standard Edition
Microsoft Windows 3.11 Standard Edition
Microsoft Windows for Workgroups 3.1
Microsoft Windows for Workgroups 3.11

This article was previously published under Q103914

SYMPTOMS

When you run Windows or Windows for Workgroups and use an Adaptec 1542c bus-mastering SCSI hard disk controller, you may receive the following error message:

Cannot write to drive C:

CAUSE

The Adaptec 1542c controller does not need a device driver to function correctly in most circumstances. However, on some hardware, it cannot perform necessary functions (such as double buffering for direct memory access) without a device driver.

WORKAROUND

According to Adaptec Technical Support, a possible workaround is to use ASPI4DOS.SYS, which is normally used only with the 1542b SCSI controller. Load this driver in the CONFIG.SYS file as follows:

   DEVICE=C:\DOS\ASPI4DOS.SYS

This line assists the controller in performing its functions.

MORE INFORMATION

You can obtain ASPI4DOS.SYS from the Adaptec bulletin board service or Adaptec Technical Support.

The Adaptec 1542c Controller is manufactured by Adaptec, a vendor independent of Microsoft; we make no warranty, implied or otherwise, regarding this product's performance or reliability.

Additional query words: 3.10 3.1 3.11 ASPI4.DOS

Keywords: KB103914