How to Format Zip Disks
Zip disks are a type of removable computer storage medium used by PCs, Macs and other computer systems. Zip disks can store photos, music, movies and other computer files. The disks are also used to back up computer files on systems and servers. Zip disks are available preformatted, but sometimes you want to erase and reuse a Zip disk. To format a Zip disk, you need to use the formatting program built in to your computer's operating system.
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Instructions
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Formatting a Zip Disk on a PC
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1
Insert the Zip disk into the Zip drive.
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Click "Start," then "My Computer."
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Right-click on the Zip drive icon.
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Click "Format."
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Select "Short Format" to erase and format the Zip disk if the disk hasn't been experiencing any "data read" errors or other types of errors.
If the disk has been experiencing any errors, select "Long Format."
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Click "Start" to format the Zip disk.
Formatting a Zip Disk on a Mac
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Insert the Zip disk into the Zip drive.
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Click on your Mac hard disk and open the "IomegaWare" folder.
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Open the "Tools" folder. Double-click the "Tools" icon.
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Click on the icon for the Zip disk you want to format in the main "Tools" window.
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Select the "Erase Disk" tool.
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Select "Short Erase" to erase and format the Zip disk if the disk hasn't been experiencing any "data read" errors or other types of errors.
If the disk has been experiencing any errors, select "Long Erase."
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Click "Erase" to format the Zip disk.
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Tips & Warnings
Label each of your Zip disks as "Blank" or with similar wording so you know the disks are ready for storing files and data.
Formatting erases any files you may have on the Zip disk. Make sure you copy any wanted files from the disk before formatting it.
