Can you recall the punch/notcher for 5.25" floppy disks? During the era of 5.25-inch floppy disks, especially for systems like Atari 8-bit computers such as the 800XL or 130XE, as well as Commodore 64 computers, these disks were limited to writing on just one side. To make use of the other side for storing data, a distinct method was needed: flipping the disk over and using a punch/notcher to create a hole, granting the ability to write data onto that previously inaccessible side.
Regrettably, these devices are no longer manufactured and are exceedingly rare to obtain or very expensive.
While browsing Aliexpress, I have stumbled upon a tool / notcher designed for creating square holes. Remarkably, the hole dimensions matched those of the original notch on 5 1/4-inch floppy disks, precisely measuring 0.25 inches.
One aspect proved to be somewhat challenging: accurately pinpointing the precise hole location while utilising this tool. As a solution, I opted to create a holder that integrates with this tool, significantly simplifying the process of punching holes in 5.25-inch floppy disks.
Here is the (not affiliated) link to the square puncher device on AliExpress. Subsequently, you can download my 3D design for the floppy disk notcher add-on, allowing you to 3D print it yourself.