Sound Devices 744T - Manual (Page 57)

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For best operation periodic re-formatting of the 744T hard drive is recommended. Formatting the
hard drive rebuilds the FAT (file allocation table) and erases all audio and data files present on the
medium. Formatting the drive prevents fragmentation and reduces the likelihood of directory cor-
ruption.
Be certain that all files on the 744T drive have been backed up to another media before formatting. Once
formatted, all data on the drive will be erased. Dynamic lists such as track names, scene names, folder
options, etc... will be saved.
To format the 744T internal hard drive:
1. Ensure that all data on the hard drive has been copied or is no longer needed.
2. Press the Menu key.
3. Use the Rotary Switch to scroll to IN HDD: ERASE / FORMAT.
4. To verify that a non-recoverable format of the storage device is desired two keys must be pressed to
begin formatting. Press and hold down the play key to enable the check mark. Hit the tone key (check
mark) to begin formatting.
Press and hold
down the play key
Hit the tone key to
begin formatting
Formatting the 744T hard drive can take up to 20 seconds. When formatting is completed, the 744T
will generate a fresh menu hierarchy, including the daily folder if selected. Dynamic lists such as
track names, scene names, folder options, etc. will be saved.
Drive Type
The 744T ships with a 2.5-inch SATA interface, 5400 RPM hard drive. Sound Devices has chosen the
specific mechanism for maximum vibration and shock resistance. Most 2.5 inch drives conforming to
the SATA specification can be substituted for the factory hard drive.
Units with serial numbers below 461509071000 have a 2.5-inch ATA-5 interface, 5400 RPM hard drive.
Most 2.5 inch drives conforming to the ATA specification can be substituted for the factory hard drive.
When choosing a substitute hard drive, note that higher RPM hard drives draw more current,
reducing battery run time. Higher speed drives may be used with the 744T, however they will not
significantly improve performance. They will slightly increase transfer throughput with the penalty
of increased current draw and reduced battery run time. The 744T can address drives with capacities
up to 2 TB.
Drive Replacement
The internal hard drive can be removed and replaced if the device fails or if a different capacity drive
is needed. The internal hard drive is not intended to be a swappable, deliverable medium. Its multi-
pin connector is not rated for repeated insertion and removal cycles and may be prone to breakage
with repeated cycling.
In typical service conditions Sound Devices recommends hard drive replacement once every three years.