I would like to know why it is not suggested to use Low Level Format for newer HDs?Does it means that the created new sectors are less “magnetically reliable” with respect to those created by the manufacturer? Are they subject to become more rapidly "exhausted"?
I read that the low level format (LLF) recovers also the reallocated sectors, but this does not appear in the HD SMART information because the SMART information cannot be modified. Is there a way to verify that the reallocated sectors have been recovered after a LLF?
Which is the physical reason why, after the LLF, you can have a "loss in the HD capacity"?</li>
S
Answer by
Sean Hill
The Low Level Format wasn't recommended in the past. The hard disks released nowadays are fully compatible to low level format with the official tools released by the manufacturers. I have used Low Level Format for my Western Digital hard disk and everything was fine. The sectors were in their place, the capacity was assigned as full and as it was. The reallocated sectors come from places of the hard disk that are damaged. If you see that number increasing rapidly, then the hard disk could crash at any time.
There is no loss in capacity after a complete LLF. Also, keep in mind that LLF won't have an impact on the driver's capacity and performance. You'll practically restore it to factory condition.
I have a SD memory card with 32MB and I can't format it (low level) due to "Your device cannot be accessed as it is smaller than 65535 sectors". What can I do? Do you know any other software?
D
Answer by
Dan Angel
If you can't format your card using Hard Disk Low Level Format Tool, I suggest you try Hard Disk Wipe Tool developed by HDDGURU. It is free of charge and compatible with all major memory cards. Also, you can check Software Informer database for other similar programs.
I have 3 questions:
The Low Level Format wasn't recommended in the past. The hard disks released nowadays are fully compatible to low level format with the official tools released by the manufacturers. I have used Low Level Format for my Western Digital hard disk and everything was fine. The sectors were in their place, the capacity was assigned as full and as it was. The reallocated sectors come from places of the hard disk that are damaged. If you see that number increasing rapidly, then the hard disk could crash at any time.
There is no loss in capacity after a complete LLF. Also, keep in mind that LLF won't have an impact on the driver's capacity and performance. You'll practically restore it to factory condition.
I have a SD memory card with 32MB and I can't format it (low level) due to "Your device cannot be accessed as it is smaller than 65535 sectors". What can I do? Do you know any other software?
If you can't format your card using Hard Disk Low Level Format Tool, I suggest you try Hard Disk Wipe Tool developed by HDDGURU. It is free of charge and compatible with all major memory cards. Also, you can check Software Informer database for other similar programs.