if it's just storage for ur files, then format as FAT32. simplest solution. both OSX n windows can access

if for storage but u wanna store files which are bigger than 4gb (as in 1 file >4gb, folder nevermind), use NTFS. windows can access but OSX cannot write. so u need to install an app on OSX to enable writing to NTFS volumes first..i recommend the free ntfs-3g

if for storage and time machine, only way is to partition the drive. one partition, format as HFS so can use with time machine. the other partition, format to either FAT32 or NTFS, depending on the previous paragraphs

Yea I think im going to use your 3rd suggestion. Partition into 2, 1 for time machine backup using HFS format.. The other FAT32 as I dont think any of my files are bigger than 4GB.. haha.. Thanks for the info.. New knowledge learned.. =D

good2 glad to help

thx dvlz for the great response.. if i make partition in my external hdd.. one for TM.. one for normal use mix with windows & mac..

if i m format under NTFS, and install an apps for Mac to write in NTFS.. will there be any downside? altho format it in FAT32 would be easier.. but just in case i hv file bigger than 4GB per file in the future..

Like dvlz suggested... After formatting to NTFS, install the ntfs-3g also so you can also write using OSX

so far i havent encountered any downsides with ntfs-3g

arent there 3rd party softwares you can download to alleviate the problem of read-only for ntfs?

the post right above yours got clue

oo.. then i will format it in NTFS instead of FAT32 lor.. so that in case i hv file bigger than 4GB also no worries

Yeap thats for future proof... But Ill stick to FAT32 as I dont think ill be keeping such big files... I guess those big files are mainly produced by graphic designers am I right? Or maybe games =D

i only got two files bigger than 4gb. one is snowleopard disk image. another is my virtual machine

Haha... ICIC... I need to learn how to make disk images... Just for backup... Nvm Ill ask in detail next time when I have my MBP with me =D

Think carefully now.
I have tonnes of files more than 4GB since I have lots of HD movies. With this type of screen, makes watching movies and seeing photos exciting (though I doubt one photo can take more than 4GB..hehe) Alot of my movies are around 4-5GB per file. Also I have alot of ISO images with me.
Moving ahead with changing the file system can be pain in rear especially if you need to move around files and you don't have extra disk space in current laptop to kick to or extra HDD to put it form temp

Ummm good point there... Guess Ill format to NTFS and get the ntfs-3g software.... Guess thats the best option right now eh.... =D

the only HD movies i have is rent from itunes... 24 hours expire dy...heheh

Oh, how much did you rent one movie for? Is it expensive? How long did you take to dl it?

us$ 3.99... last i rented was hurt locker. highly recommended watching in HD haha

about 5gb+. i think 2/3 days...i dun online all the time...

Oh wow... You pay for it and have to wait for it to DL also... If its for me I wouldnt wanna wait for it.. No patience.. Hardly dl movies also actually hehe due to malaysia's screamyx tortoise line.. =P

Big thanks to dvlzplayground for all the useful info in this thread. I have been thinking of a new storage n backup system. The info here is just what I needed.

is this the way you thank someone ? if yes, great.

i have no idea why u call someone who helped u as b****y when he/she just say out something which didn't hurt u at all.

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Added on April 21, 2010, 9:36 pmi suggest WD as it looks mac. you dont need the special Mac edition, the one with firewire should be good enough already.

This post has been edited by BridgestoneRE711: Apr 21 2010, 09:36 PM