Second Semester : Lec. 2 : Computer Preparing (Formatting)

Second Semester : Lec. 2 : Computer Preparing (Formatting) A hard disk drive (HDD) is a data storage device used for storing and retrieving digital information using rapidly rotating disks (platters) coated with magnetic material. An HDD retains its data even when powered off. To use the hard drive it must be formatted (after partitioning it). Formatting erases any existing files on a hard disk. If you format a hard disk that has files on it, the files will be deleted.
There are two types of Formatting:
• Physical Formatting, also known as low-level format.
• Logical Formatting or what is known as creating high level Formatting.
? Physical Formatting:
A physical formatting must be done before the logical formatting of the hard disk, physical formatting of the hard disk (also called low-level format) is usually done after the company produces the hard disk directly.
The purpose of low-level formatting is to divide the disk surface into basic elements:
• Tracks : They are the concentric areas written on both sides of a platter.
• Sectors : tracks are divided into pieces called sectors.
• Cylinders : all the data located on the same track of different platters.