Epson Equity 286 PLUS - Manual (Page 69)

Formatting Diskettes
Before you can store data on a new diskette, you must format it
using the FORMAT command. Formatting prepares the diskette
so that MS-DOS can write data on it. You need to do this only
once, before you use the diskette for the first time.
You can also reformat previously used diskettes to store new
data. This process erases all the data on the diskette, so be sure
you do not want to save any of the files on a used diskette before
you format it. See your MS-DOS Reference Manual for
instructions on using the FORMAT command.
Making Backup Copies
It is important to make copies of all your data and system
diskettes. Make backup (or working) copies of all diskettes that
contain programs, such as your MS-DOS diskette and the
Reference diskette that came with your computer. Then use
only the copies. Store the original diskettes in a safe place away
from your working diskettes. Also, copy your data diskettes
regularly, whenever you revise them (to keep them up-to-date)
and store them away from your originals.
If you have a hard disk, you’ll probably use it to store the
programs and data files you use regularly. Keep backup copies of
all your files on diskettes.
You can copy your data in several ways:
You can use the COPY or XCOPY command to copy
individual files or groups of files.
You can use the DISKCOPY command to make an exact
duplicate of a diskette.
3 -18 Using Your Computer