How to format IDE drive to FAT ??

[barret]

I have an old 40GB IDE drive that is formatted NTFS. I would like to wipe it clean, create two partitions and format it to FAT, not FAT32. I am using XP and can not find any option other than NTSC to reformat. I have read XP will not format any thing over 32 GB??  into anything other than NTSC but that it can still be done. Any help would be appreciated.

Thanks
Chris

[patio]

If it's over 32G it will not show FAT as an option...
You will need to remove all partitions...create one under that size and select FAT...
Actually FAT not FAT32 may be limited to 8G...

[Computer_Commando]

NTFS vs FAT

[barret]

I understand the benefits of NTFS but I need FAT for a specific application. I am going to replace a disc on chip flash module in a STB with this hard drive. The STB is linux based and utilizes FAT. I was hoping for just two partitions one small ( a G or less ) to install the initial boot flash and the remainder close to 40 to be able to record HD programing to.

[Geek-9pm]

OK. I think I understand what you are doing. But do you think the software in in the *STB does more that 4GB? I mean, if there is more space available, with the software let you use it? Are you going to modify the Linux application inside the STB?


*STB means Set Tip Box, a converter needed to receive HDTV programs. Some have provision for recording a program.

[Computer_Commando]

I gotcha.  I always use Partition Magic for that kind of stuff. 
However, FAT (FAT16) is limited to 2GB for most OS, 4GB for some OS.  No way to get 30+GB as FAT16.  Use Windows to partition to 2GB & 38GB and you should get the option for FAT on the 2GB partition.

[barret]

So far I do know that the STB will recognize the drive once it is formatted properly. I can then install the boot flash via usb. The STB automatically defaults this to the smaller partition. The recording capabilities on the larger partition are going to be trial and error.
Thanks for the info on my format options. I will give it a go tonight.