Can't read Mac-formatted FAT32 flash drive


  1. Posts : 22
    Windows 7 64-bit
       #1

    Can't read Mac-formatted FAT32 flash drive


    I formatted a 64gb flash memory stick on a Mac with MSDOS/FAT32 format and copied some files to it just fine. When I plug the stick into my Windows 7 64 bit machine, it wants to format it! From what I have read, the Mac formatted it using a GUID partition. I can see it in Disk Manager and there are 2 partitions on it listed as follows:

    200 MB
    Healthy (GPT Protective Partition)

    (I:) 59.55 GB RAW
    Healthy (Primary Partition)

    From what I have read I should be able to read a GUID partition on Windows 7, but it's not working. Any idea how I can read this thing on Windows 7 without losing the data? I don't normally have access to a Mac.
      My Computer


  2. Posts : 5,056
    Windows 7 x64 pro/ Windows 7 x86 Pro/ XP SP3 x86
       #2

    Try Macdrive, theres a free trial.

    Features « Mediafour

    Otherwise, try booting from an ubuntu live cd and see if it reads the usb.
      My Computer


  3. Posts : 414
    win7 ultimate 32bit
       #3

    probably for future reference-USB memory sticks formatted in Disk Utility (on a MAC) will work fine in Windows, IF you make sure, the partition scheme is set to MBR (Master Boot Record), thus Windows can read and write from and to it. (default is GUID)

    see link--heading
    "Mac OS X 10.4 and earlier, or 10.5 and later with changes to the partition scheme"

    In Mac OS X, how do I partition my hard drive? - Knowledge Base
      My Computer


  4. Posts : 22
    Windows 7 64-bit
    Thread Starter
       #4

    Tried Mac Drive - no go.

    I am aware of the partition issue now, but needed a solution for this time. Luckily there's a guy at work who sometimes brings his Mac in, so I got it transferred. Still baffled why I couldn't read it when Windows 7 should have been able to, but at least the problem is solved.
      My Computer


 

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