8GB (and larger) Memory Card Format Procedure for Windows XP

There is an incompatibility between the Sony readers and the default format of many 8GB and larger memory cards. The problem can appear after updating these cards for the second time, which is usually after installing your second cycle. The problem results in the reader failing to recognize the updated books. Either the "Collections" menu will be empty, or the books listed will fail to load.

The 2GB and 4GB sized cards do not have this problem, and switching to one of these smaller sizes is the easiest way to eliminate the problem. However, if you want to continue using an 8GB (or larger) card, you can also eliminate incompatibility by reformatting it with the format procedure below. The procedure takes only a few minutes, but it is a bit technical, and there's potential for data-loss if done incorrectly. So, if you're the least bit unsure about doing it yourself, please give us a call at (512) 850-5510. We'll be happy to return phone calls and walk you through it.

1. Determine which drive letter is assigned to your 8GB SD card when your Sony reader is connected to your computer. You can do this by starting the Reader Plates Installer and progressing to the "Choose where to install?" screen:
   
   In this example the drive letter is 'K'. Make note of your drive letter, and close the installer by clicking the red X in the top right corner of the window.


2. Next, click the Windows "Start" button and then choose "Run..." from the menu that appears
   
   Or, if there is no "Run..." option, try pressing the Windows key and 'R' a the same time.


3. Then paste the following line into the "Open:" text box, and substitute the drive letter for your 8GB SD card in place of the 'K'
   
     cmd /c (format K: /Q /FS:FAT32 /A:64K & pause)
   
   WARNING!   Be very sure you've chosen the correct drive letter as all information on that drive will be erased.
   
   Here is an example using drive K:
   
   Click the "OK" button.


4. A window like this should appear:
   
   Press the "Enter" key.


5. A warning message about cluster size will be displayed:
   
   Enter a 'y' and hit the "Enter' key.


6. You will then be asked to enter a volume label:
   
   Press the "Enter" key.


7. If all goes well you should see "Format complete." and detailed properties of the card.
   
   Press 'Enter'.


8. Now run the Reader Plates Installer to download the latest cycle. Your 8GB card should be good for multiple downloads without reformatting again.