Format the Hard Drive

This chapter describes how to partition and format your new drive using the MaxBlast installation software on a Windows system. Maxtor recommends using MaxBlast on 98 and ME systems, rather than FDISK, to partition and format the drive.

If you have not previously installed a SATA drive in your system, you must install a Windows driver for your SATA PCI card or SATA-enabled motherboard or system so that Windows can recognize your new drive. For maximum compatibility, Maxtor recommends downloading and installing the latest SATA driver from the website of the SATA card/motherboard/system manufacturer. The latest SATA drivers for Maxtor-branded SATA cards can be downloaded from the Worldwide Support section at www.maxtor.com.

Choose from one of the following installation scenarios:

A. Existing Windows 98 or Me system

B. Existing Windows 2000 or XP system – new drive as “storage only”

C. Existing Windows 2000 or XP system – new drive as “boot drive”

D. New Windows 98 or Me system or replacing a failed 98 or Me boot drive

E. New Windows 2000 or XP system or replacing a failed 2000 or XP boot drive

Special notes for installation scenarios C and D:

The DOS version of MaxBlast does not currently support USB mouse or keyboard input unless supported by your system BIOS. If you have a USB keyboard and/or mouse, you may need to connect a PS/2 mouse or keyboard to your system temporarily to navigate through the program. MaxBlast for DOS can be operated from the keyboard using the Tab, Enter/Return, and arrow keys.

To boot from the MaxBlast CD, you may need to change the boot sequence or boot order settings in your system BIOS to “Floppy CDROM IDE-0” or “A, CDROM, C.” Depending on your BIOS type (AMI, Award, Phoenix), the boot sequence settings may be located on the main setup screen or under the BIOS FEATURES SETUP or ADVANCED CMOS SETUP menus.

PAGE 10

Page 12
Image 12
Maxtor SATA II/300 specifications Format the Hard Drive

SATA II/300 specifications

The Maxtor SATA II/300 hard drive represents a significant advancement in data storage technology, catering to the increasing demands for speed, capacity, and reliability in modern computing environments. Developed by Maxtor, a brand known for its innovative storage solutions, the SATA II/300 is engineered to deliver impressive performance while maintaining a user-friendly experience.

At the heart of the Maxtor SATA II/300 is its SATA II interface, which supports a maximum data transfer rate of 300 MB/s. This high-speed interface enables rapid access to large files, making it an ideal choice for gamers, content creators, and professionals who rely on quick data retrieval and storage. The increased data bandwidth helps to improve the overall performance of the system, especially when dealing with bandwidth-intensive applications.

The Maxtor SATA II/300 drive is available in various storage capacities, offering users the flexibility to choose a model that best fits their needs. Whether for personal use, such as storing multimedia files, or for enterprise applications that require bulk data storage, the SATA II/300 provides options ranging from hundreds of gigabytes to several terabytes. This scalability ensures that users can grow their storage space as needed without the hassle of upgrading to a new system.

Reliability is a key characteristic of the Maxtor SATA II/300. Built with advanced data protection technologies, including error correction and power loss protection, this hard drive minimizes the risk of data loss and corruption. The drive's design also incorporates reduced power consumption features, making it an energy-efficient choice for users who are conscious of their environmental impact and electricity bills.

Another notable feature of the Maxtor SATA II/300 is its compatibility with various operating systems and systems architectures. This versatility ensures that users can seamlessly integrate the drive into their existing systems, whether it be a desktop, laptop, or server setup.

In conclusion, the Maxtor SATA II/300 hard drive encapsulates the essential features, technologies, and characteristics that modern users demand from a storage solution. With its high-speed data transfer capabilities, substantial capacity options, reliability enhancements, and compatibility, it stands as a robust option for anyone looking to enhance their storage solutions. As data continues to proliferate in our digital age, the Maxtor SATA II/300 ensures that users can keep pace with their evolving storage needs.