Should you convert to FAT32?



Windows Sources  "40 Ways to Make Windows 98 Fly"
http://www.zdnet.com/wsources/

Written by M. David Stone

Before you convert to FAT32, make sure it's the right choice. 
FAT32's strong point is that it uses hard disk space more 
efficiently. The minimum file size for FAT16 on a 1GB disk, for 
example, is 32K. For FAT32, it's 4K. Another benefit is that 
unlike FAT16, FAT32 isn't limited to a 2GB-per-disk partition.

On the other hand, you can't use DriveSpace to compress a FAT32 
disk. And if you like to use your notebook's suspend-to-disk 
feature, it won't work with FAT32. Nor can you dual-boot your 
system to run most earlier versions of Windows or DOS. 
Additionally, some older disk utilities work only with FAT16, so 
you may have to upgrade your third-party utility programs. And 
once you've converted to FAT32, the only way to return the disk 
to FAT16 and reclaim these capabilities is through 
repartitioning and reformatting.

If you choose to convert, the Drive Converter Wizard does a good 
job of warning you about possible problems. Be sure to read each 
screen carefully as you work your way through the choices, and 
don't hesitate to cancel the conversion if you have any doubts.


