Performing a Low Level Format on a SCSI disk drive.

Instructions for using SeaTools Enterprise Edition to perform a low-level format on a SCSI drive.
 
  1. Download and install SeaTools Enterprise software.  Use SCSIMax diagnostic utility for Maxtor or Quantum SCSI drives.
  2. Click START | PROGRAMS | SEATOOLS ENTERPRISE to run the program. It will scan any SCSI device(s) installed in the system.
  3. Highlight the drive you would like to format.
  4. Click VIEW | ADVANCED. This will take you to the "Advanced Menu" of the software.
  5. Click ADVANCED | FORMAT. This will bring you to another screen. Click the "Format" tab.
  6. Click the "Format Now" button. You will be prompted to make sure you would like to continue.
WARNING: All data will be lost!
  1. If you are sure, click "Yes" to continue. If you are not sure, click "No" to exit the utility.
  2. The selected drive will now format and bring your drive back to factory settings.

The advantage to using our low-level routine as opposed to others (such as from SCSI BIOS utilities) is that once you start the routine it can be disrupted at any time. With BIOS utilities, disrupting could damage the drive and render it inoperable. This can also occur from an unexpected power outage.

If the low-level format did not resolve your issue, the drive might need to be replaced. To verify warranty status for your drive, please visit our Warranty Services Page.

  1. ⁺ For a limited time of March 25, 2024, 10:00AM Pacific Time ("PT") to April 1, 2024 9:59AM PT, all orders placed at the Seagate store at Seagate.com will receive free ground shipping to addresses located within the United States.