Epson 486SX Physically Formatting a Hard Disk

Appendix A

Physically Formatting a Hard Disk

This appendix describes how to physically format a hard disk. Sometimes called a low-level format, this procedure should not be confused with the logical format performed by the operating system, such as the MS-DOS FORMAT command. Physically formatting a hard disk is a separate step that is usually done at the factory by the disk manufacturer.

If your computer came with a factory-installed hard disk, or if you have installed an optional Epson IDE hard disk, it has already been physically formatted. You need only follow the instructions in your operating system manual to prepare your hard disk for use.

If you have installed a hard disk that came with its own format utility, use that program to physically format the disk.

You may need to use the procedure in this chapter to physically format a hard disk if you have installed a non-Epson hard disk in your computer that has never received the low-level format and did not come with its own format utility.

Caution

If you are unsure whether formatting is necessary, contact your Epson dealer for assistance.

Physically formatting a hard disk erases any data it contains. If you are formatting a hard disk you have been using, be sure to back up all its data to diskettes before you format it. See your operating system manual for instructions on backing up data.

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