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File Allocation Table (FAT):A Table or list maintained by some Operating Systems (O/S) to keep track of the status of various segments of disk space used for file storage. In other words, the FAT (File Allocation Table) is a System for keeping track of how files are stored on a disk. Disk Defragmentation is essential for proper System Maintenance & Performance. Even NTFS Partitions whether Workstations or Servers benefit from Defragmentation. Windows Operating System FAT - File Allocation Tables:The File System used by MS-DOS and adapted for Windows to store information on Disks, which makes use of a File Allocation Table. There are three types of FAT File Systems. The FAT12 (12-bit) is used on FAT volumes smaller than 16 megabytes in size, such as Floppy Disks. FAT16 can be found on all versions of Windows - Win2000, WinMe, Win98, and the later Win95 OEM SR2 also support FAT32; Windows NT does not. Although Win2000 does support FAT32, it does not create FAT32 Partitions upon installation of Win2000 OEM. Win2000 will create FAT32 Partitions from the Control Panel - Administrative Tools, Computer Management, Disk Management. This is also the place for configuration (Fdisk & Format) of additional Disk Drive Storage for Operational use.
Windows File Systems:
File Allocation Tables & File Sizes...
Quoting from Microsoft.com link (Above), The following table (Below) describes the compatibility comparisons of each File System with the various Operating Systems. Some older programs may not run on an NTFS Volume (DOS Apps or Utilities) or the Windows Future Storage (WinFS). WinFS - Rumored to be the new File System in Longhorn, the code name for the next version of Windows Desktop after WinXP. Research your current requirements for your software before converting File Systems.
FAT12 is the only format used on floppy diskettes! |
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- Posted 08/11/2001; Updated 12/10/2003