Nikon D3 User Manual page 71

Formatting Memory Cards
Memory cards must be formatted before first use. Format the card
as described below.
D
Formatting Memory Cards
Formatting memory cards permanently deletes any data they may contain.
Be sure to copy any photographs and other data you wish to keep to a
computer before proceeding (pg. 256).
1
Turn the camera on.
2
Press the Q buttons.
Hold the Q (I and O)
buttons down simultaneously
for approximately two
seconds.
A blinking C will appear in the
shutter-speed displays in the
viewfinder and top control panel. If
two memory cards are inserted, the
main command dial can be used to
select the card to be formatted;
check that the correct card is
selected in the top control panel
before proceeding. To exit without formatting the memory
card, press any button other than the Q (I and O) buttons.
Power switch
O button
SHOOT
s
I button
45