Explanation of “Partition” and “File” Menu Options in Image for DOS

Please note: This article applies to version 1 product(s) only.

When creating an image with Image for DOS, you have the option to save the image file(s) to either a "File" or a "Partition" destination.  This article explains what each of these options means.

File:  This option causes the operating system to be used to access the image file(s).  Using this option lets you access the target medium by drive letter, and also access network drives.  However, this option cannot be used if the target medium uses a file system which is not supported by the environment Image for DOS is running in.  This means that the File option generally cannot be used when saving images to NTFS partitions.  The File option does not provide support for the "BIOS HD (direct)" menu option, or the IFD=ATA environment variable option, if either are used.  (Those options will, however, still be in effect for the I/O taking place on the partition being imaged or restored.)

Partition:  This option bypasses the operating system when it creates the image file(s).  Using this option lets you access the target medium directly, and save images to file systems not supported by the environment Image for DOS is running in.  The Partition option is generally required when saving images to NTFS partitions.  The Partition option also provides support for the "BIOS HD (direct)" menu option, and the IFD=ATA environment variable option, if used.