Chapter 3 - Formatting; What Is Formatting; Windows; Mac - Buffalo HDW-PDU3 MiniStation Air Reference Manual

Chapter 3 - Formatting

What is Formatting?

Formatting is a process that creates a file system, allowing a drive to be usable with your computer.
The MiniStation Air is formatted with NTFS by default.

Windows

Keep the default NTFS format.

Mac

The MiniStation Air is formatted with NTFS by default. For USB connection, reformat it with FAT32 as described in
this manual.

Notes:

• If the MiniStation Air is reformatted with HFS+, files on it will no longer be accessible from your mobile de-
vice. If you have already reformatted the MiniStation Air with a different partition, use the procedure in this
manual to reformat it with FAT32.
• For wireless connection, reformatting is not necessary. Refer to the quick setup guide for how to connect
your Mac to the MiniStation Air wirelessly.
Notes
• Never unplug, reset, or turn off the computer during the formatting process. This could result in damage to the
drive or other problems. Proper operation cannot be guaranteed if the format process is interrupted.
• Formatting will erase all data on the hard drive. Before formatting, back up any data. The user is responsible for
any data lost due to formatting of the hard drive.
Don't format the wrong drive! Check the drive letter and partition name carefully.
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