Hardware installation, Initio, Hard disk drive preparation – Initio I/O HIGHWAY User Manual
Page 15: Low-level format
11
initio
®
9 System startup
The newly installed SCSI bus is now ready to power up. Switch on peripheral and
host computer system power. The system monitor should display the following
information, but may vary, based on the system BIOS manufacturer.
The normal Power-On Self Test and memory test procedure.
The host adapter sign on message including a list of attached SCSI devices.
The list should match the peripheral devices attached to the bus. In most cases the
host computer system is now configured and ready for use.
Some situations will require that a low-level format be performed using the host adapter
SmartSCSI Setup Utility to initialize a SCSI disk drive and lay the foundation for a bootable
SCSI drive.
10 SmartSCSI Setup Utility
The SmartSCSI Setup Utility simplifies the SCSI installation process by eliminating
the need for opening the system to change system jumpers and switch settings. All
necessary host adapter functions are accessible through the utility, simplifying
customization for your system needs. Initios SmartSCSI Setup Utility is divided into
five segments identified by: Scan Bus; Device Setup; Adapter Setup; BIOS Setup; and Disk
Utility. These program functions are accessible by typing
up prompt.
Hard Disk Drive Preparation
A new SCSI disk drive is normally low-level formatted at the factory to simplify installa-
tion. The drive can be used as it comes from the factory once it is partitioned for
system operation.
Low-level Format
A low-level format will erase any data that is stored on the target disk. Before attempting
to perform a low-level format be sure the data on the target disk has been backed up. A
low-level format can be achieved via the SmartSCSI Setup Utility for
I/OHIGHWAY
.
The low level format sets the media to a state which is easily recognized by the host
adapter on the SCSI bus. Once this format is completed, you will need to partition the
drive. Refer to your operating system documentation for further information on parti-
tioning drives.
Hardware Installation