β¨οΈDisk Initialization
Initial setup and configuration for new IODD devices and internal disks.
1. First-Time Setup Sequence
If you are installing a new disk for the first time, follow this specific order:
Detection: Once the IODD is recognized, an initialization message will appear in your OS disk management tool.
Encryption First (Optional): * If you intend to use hardware encryption, you must set the password on the IODD hardware first before initializing the drive in Windows/Mac.
ST400, LK100 & MINI PRO: Set the 2nd Password first, followed by the 1st Password.
Disk Initialization:
Modern Models (ST, MINI PRO, LK100): Supports both MBR and GPT. GPT is recommended for drives over 2TB.
Legacy Models (2531, 2541, MINI Legacy): Supports MBR only. GPT is not supported.
Note: Legacy models have a hardware limit that only recognizes the first 2TB of a drive.
Partitioning & Formatting:
Format using NTFS, exFAT, or FAT32.
Note: FAT32 has a 4GB file size limit. NTFS/exFAT is recommended for ISO/VHD files.
ST/MINI PRO: The IODD data partition does not have to be the first partition on the disk.
Safe Removal (Crucial): Always use "Safely Remove Hardware" before disconnecting. Failure to do so with NTFS can lead to the "ASSERT" error.
Reconnect & Verify: Reconnect the IODD.
Modern Models (ST, MINI PRO, LK100): If files are not visible, hold the [4] key for 3 seconds to manually select the correct partition.
Legacy Models (2531, 2541, MINI Legacy): This partition selection hotkey is not supported. Ensure your data is on the first primary partition. (For 2541, long-pressing [4] only rescans the current partition).
2. Fixing Initialization Failures (MBR β GPT β MBR Trick)
If the drive fails to initialize or displays errors, try this cycle:
Connect the HDD/SSD directly to a PC (if possible) or via IODD.
Initialize it as GPT.
Then, immediately re-initialize it back to MBR. This process can often clear corrupted partition table metadata that simple formatting cannot fix.
π οΈ OS Specific Guides
Windows: Microsoft Disk Management Guide.
macOS: Disk Utility User Guide.
3. Voltage Check
Monitoring voltage is crucial for data integrity. Press [3] on the keypad to view the current V-voltage.
Lowest/Minimum Voltage: Some models (ST/2541) track the lowest voltage detected since connection. This is the most critical value for stability.
Current Voltage: Displays the real-time BUS voltage.
Low Voltage Warning (< 4.65V) This is critical. Large file transfers may fail, or the disk may disconnect randomly. You must move to a rear PC port or use a powered USB hub immediately to prevent data loss.
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