The first time you format a new hard drive.

[Kippa]

Just a quick question. When you get a brand new hard drive, is it wise to do a full format if it is brand new, or can you just do a quick format?

 

[nickbits]

I always do a full so each sector is touched. Had some damaged in shipping and that let me know (click of death).

 

[Kippa]

Ta for the feedback.

 

[pcunite]

If you have the time, a full can mark bad sectors at the very least.

 

[Turbonium]

I always do full. Like literally always.

But I'm a bit paranoid. Still, I think it's a good idea to minimize risk of data loss or whatnot whenever possible.

 

[WilliamM2]

I always run the IBM Drive Fitness Test (works with all brands) from the Ultimate boot CD, before putting any drive into service. The advanced test, not the quick test. Be aware that on a large 2TB or 3TB drive, it will take 4 to 6 hours, but it's much more reliable than just a full format, as it reads every single block on the disk.

If it passes, all you need is a quick format. If it fails, send it back. I also use Crystal Disk occasionally. It has informed me of possible bad sectors before they became a problem.