Low-level format

An initial formatting of a hard drive that initializes the physical tracks on the surface or the internal disks. The drive manufacturer performs a low-level format on the hard drive before the drive is sold. A low-level format is not something the owner of the drive needs to perform.

If a high-level format can't be completed or you need information on performing a low-level format, a debug routine can perform this function. See our debug routine guide for further information.

Format, Hard drive terms, High-level format, MFM, Zero filling