[Misc] MX-3501 series HDD format

[Guest]

In response to the TV news story about HDD security, we are starting to get customers that are concerned about their data. If I take out the HDD on an MX-3501 & perform a Low-Level format & then format to FAT32 (according to the svc manual), will the machine recognize the newly formatted drive?? Will the system need to be reloaded?

Also, I see there are some options in the svc mode (62-1/8/10/11/13) to do various formats & delete certain items.....how good it that function?

Thanks in advance for any input!!

[costd]

Wellllll, the low level format is a good idea - but I would not do a FAT32 format as Sharp units will automatically format a blank drive. Another option is to use sim 62-1 to format the HDD in the machine (does not wipe the manual).

I feel a need to mention that a formatting a HDD with data that someone (with money/tech) really wants to get is not 100% effective. I would strongly suggest they have you add a data security kit to existing machines - and to physically destroy any HDD that is REALLY sensitive. You would be surprised at the level of HDD forensics now days.

[OMD-227]

Completely agree with Costd.

Anytime an MX machine has an already formatted HDD installed, it will format it into the required partitions that it needs for Document Filing area, Operation Manual area and general storage areas/job logs/user accounts.
A completely formatted HDD will need the Oeration Manuals uploaded to it, so any user who wants it can access it. That is done just like a firmware upgrade with the operation manual file.
The machine will recognise it as a new HDD, but it will do everything it needs to do automatically to set itself up. You'll most likely get a U2-05 code on bootup, but because you dont have any important data to put back on the HDD with your clone/backup, just clear it with sim 16 & restart. You wont need to reload system software, as that is stored on all flashroms on that machine. The new MX machines (MX2600-5000N's), store firmware and software on the HDD, so thats a different procedure.

[KeithN]

Thanks for the great information!! Sharp is our secondary line, so we don't deal with too many of them .......especially HDD issues. Sharp hot-line wouldn't give me straight answer on formatting the drive & re-installing (and their support sight sucks imo). Now, we'll see what the customer wants to do with it.

Thanks Again for the help!!