Cannot access the USB drive when running under DOS

[GreensandsParticipant @greensands]

Hi – Another query for the DOS based experts on the forum. I am setting up a vintage desktop PC, HP model 7700 as a standby for the workshop computer which I use to run my DOS based software. The HP7700 comes with a DVD drive and two USB ports and normally runs under Win XP but has the option to boot up under DOS Ver 6.3

When running under Win XP the USB drives are set up with a MS mouse dongle and a standalone 3.5” floppy disc drive with the DVD drive being available when required. Running under DOS (true DOS, not DOS via Windows) I want to be able to have the USB drives connected to the 3.5” floppy drive with the second one available for use with memory sticks. Problem is that only the 3.5” drive and not the USB drive is being recognised when running under DOS. Do I need to install another driver or is there something else which is missing?

[GreensandsParticipant @greensands]

[John HaineParticipant @johnhaine32865]

Given when DOS was current I suspect that there aren't any USB drivers available for it.

[Paul LousickParticipant @paullousick59116]

There are USB drivers for DOS such as DosUSB. **LINK** Do a Google search.

[SillyOldDufferModerator @sillyoldduffer]

Um, yes – missing.

DOS pre-dates USB and – if the computer is ancient – the BIOS might too.

My memory may be faulty, but I don't recall MS-DOS ever supported USB in any form.

These days it's possible within limits.

• If a USB capable computer, i.e one with USB sockets, is used to create a bootable DOS on a USB memory stick, then DOS will run the stick. It won't recognise other USB devices, like a plug-in floppy drive. Likewise, booting DOS from a USB floppy drive will work, but DOS won't recognise other USB devices on the machine.
• If DOS is installed on a Virtual Machine running on XP, or any other OS, DOS should inherit at least some of XP's USB capabilities, with drives appearing as E: etc. I'd expect it to take some fiddly setting up rather than just working, plus the hassle of installing a VM. Plenty to choose from – Virtualbox, KVM, QEMU, VMware etc. Trouble likely because XP is also ancient, unable to host a modern VM. Not a good choice if DOS is wanted to keep things simple!
• I'd try one of the modern DOS clones, such as FreeDOS, or an emulator. DOS programs should run on them. Clones and emulators were written after USB appeared so there's a reasonable chance they'll get basic USB functionality from the BIOS,, There will be restrictions. Nothing clever like recognising a camera, or auto-mounting, but anything that behaves like a fixed disc should be honoured.

Dave

PS Just seen Paul Lousick's post = didn't know such a thing existed.

Edited By SillyOldDuffer on 15/05/2023 11:22:05

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