Atari 400

To use a diskette-based program, you need a
disk drive.
At present, disk drives are relatively
expensive (over $300); however, the speed and
versatility
of a disk drive unit makes using your
computer a lot easier and more enjoyable. The
ability to quickly access information makes a disk
drive a must if
you intend to use your computer
for medium
to large data base applications,
extensive
word processing programs, or other
business applications. Disk drives are discussed
in more detail in Chapter
4, "Peripherals."
WHERE TO SET UP
Before you unpack your equipment, think about
where you'll want to work with your computer
system.
If you are using a large TV set (17 inches
or more diagonally),
you'll want to place the
computer
console (the part containing the key-
board) a reasonable distance from the TV screen.
Don't
put it in a spot where you ' ll have to move
everything
when you want to watch a regular
television program. For convenience, you may
even need
to consider purchasing a small color
set
to use only with your computer.
Reasonably priced and attractive furniture
is
now widely available for housing home com-
puter systems.
While a regular desk may do just
fine, furniture designed especially for computer
systems
will usually have holes for routing
cables and special shelves for specific pieces of
computer gear. At the very least, be sure to have
your computer console resting on a. firrn, flat
surface.
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