Formatting a memory card, flash drive or device using a PC

How do I format my memory card, flash drive or device using a PC?

NOTE: All SanDisk memory cards and flash drives come pre-formatted and do not need to be formatted out of the box. They are formatted with the following standards:
     - FAT for 2GB or lower capacity
     - FAT32 for 4GB to 32GB capacities
     - exFAT for 64GB or higher capacities

Reformatting will clear file system corruption or quickly erase everything on the device. If re-formatting is needed, follow the steps below.

WARNING:  Backup all your data before formatting. Formatting will erase all data on the memory device.

Formatting your memory device:1. Double-click My Computer, or Computer (for Vista and Win7)
2. Right-click the drive letter associated with your memory device, then select Format
(in the sample image below, we right-clicked on H:).

WARNING:  Make sure you select the correct drive letter.




3. Select a File system type.
    - FAT for 2GB or lower capacity
    - FAT32 for 4GB to 32GB capacities
    - exFAT for 64GB or higher capacities



4. Click Start.

NOTE: exFAT is supported natively in WIN7. You will need to download a patch for Windows XP or VISTA to format a 64GB or larger device.

Reference: Operating Systems that Support the exFAT File System

If you have a problem formatting, you can try to Format using Disk Management.