Trouble converting NTFS to FAT32 with Partition Magic

[Andrew111]

When I attempt to convert the NTFS file system to FAT32, it tells me this: "The Windows 2000/XP partition has compressed files, sparse files, reparse points, or encrypted files."

Partition Magic covers this issue in the manual and says you might get this error when converting from NTFS to FAT32, and all they say is "In such case, you can uncompress and/or move (or delete) the sparse files, then repeat the conversion." How on earth am I supposed to find all those files? Compressed files are pretty easy to find, I just have to look for the Winzip icon.....but what on earth are sparse files and reparse points? And does Windows XP have any encrypted files hidden somewhere? TIA.

 

[Damascus]

When PM refers to encrypted or compressed files, I think it's referring to the
options you get when you check file/folder properties. (never used PM before)

 

[Andrew111]

could you clarify a bit?

 

[Damascus]

Heh sorry, I should have worded that a little better. The compression and
encryption options I was talking about are the ones that you would see
when you right-click and choose properties on a file in Explorer. I have no
idea on how to go looking for those files if you don't already know where
they are. I'm sure there must be something built into the OS... only a matter
of someone with more knowledge stepping in here and laying down the
info.