1. is there something like "scandisk" under linux (sorry for the "MSism"!) that checks the *surface* of the partition?
badblocks - search a device for bad blocks
i ran badblocks on my swap partition, and indeed there are 3 bad blocks on it. I tried running mkswap (with all possible switches) and the bad blocks are still there. Someone know a way out of this trap? sorry for bringing this up at late intervals, but i have very little free time ... federico
Also, assuming your disk is reasonably recent (few years) it will be SMART capable (Self-Monitoring, Analysis and Reporting Technology), and your bios may have support for it. Then try the utility:
ide-smart - IDE SMART Checking tool
If you suspect a problem, then the best is probably to use utilities from the manufacturer; for example, for Seagate you can download a file to create a boot floppy (dos) with test utilities. The exact meaning of the SMART codes or values depends on the manufacturer.
-- Cheers, Carlos Robinson