How to format hard disk in FAT32

  • Thread starter Thread starter Big Sheesh
  • Start date Start date
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Big Sheesh

I plan to do a fresh install of Windows XP Pro on my
computer. I put in the CD and it allows me to delete
partition and format disk but doesn't give me option to
format in FAT32. How can I do this? Please provide
detailed instructions.
 
Although NTFS is the preferred and most efficient file system for running Windows XP,
you'll need to first create a partition that is less than 32GB. Then you'll have the option
to format that partition FAT32. Partitions greater than 32GB will only have the NTFS
format option.

NTFS Preinstallation and Windows XP
http://www.microsoft.com/whdc/hwdev/tech/storage/ntfs-preinstall.mspx

--
Carey Frisch
Microsoft MVP
Windows XP - Shell/User

Be Smart! Protect your PC!
http://www.microsoft.com/security/protect/

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| I plan to do a fresh install of Windows XP Pro on my
| computer. I put in the CD and it allows me to delete
| partition and format disk but doesn't give me option to
| format in FAT32. How can I do this? Please provide
| detailed instructions.
 
I have had this problem loads of times with XP.

The best way round it - without having to limit to 32GB is to use a Win98
installation CD.It means that you have t0o have access to wa Win98 CD but
its the easiest way I have found.
1.) You only need to do this step if the drive has some exisiting
partitions. Boot from the winXP cd and delete all the partitions when asked
where to install

2.) Boot from the win98 CD and say yes to configure the hard drive space,
reboot with the CD still in the drive and boot from teh CD and setup will
start to format the drive.

3.) Once win98 setup has finished formatting the drive, you can reboot with
the winXP CD and tell it to use the existing partitino and leave it
unchanged.

Let me know if any of that is unclear!

Milamber³
 
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