I'm using Zoom floppy plugged into the interface port on my 1541 II , the C64 is plugged into the Drive's serial port.
This works fine, and the Zoom floppy works well tranfering files from my PC - BUT only if I unplug the C64 from the 1541 whilst I am doing this, otherwise zoom floppy does not work & the LED will not light.

I don't know why this occurs, but when I used my old XM1541 cable I got round it but using an old Parallel port switch box to disconnect the C64 from the drive whilst I was doing file transfers from the PC.

Is there any way round this ? I'm scared of damaging the sockets/cables unplugging all the time !

Do NOT have the computer plugged into the drive at the same time as it's plugged into the PC. No way around it that I'm aware of.

It won't work and only causes problems.
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I think there is a Poke you can run on the 64 to have it "release" the IEC bus, but I don't recommend it. I recommend using separate drives, if possible.

Jim

I also had very poor success sharing one drive with the Zoomfloppy and C64. in addition I had trouble with the zoomfloppy unexpectedly resetting the C64 via the IEC buss, on occasions. I now have a dedicated 1541 for the Zoomfloppy - much better. (made a speeddos (Parallel) cable for it tonight - gotta check it tomorrow )

Callan

I guess a spare 1541 would be the best idea, time to get saving !

A 1541 is $5 on ebay.

I do think some people use the ZF in the way you mention. However, you have to remove diodes from the C64 so it doesn't interfere with the bus. r.cade is one person here I remember doing htis.

Thanks for the tip !
BTW, A 1541 for $5 !! - not here in the UK, more likely ten times that