FATformaten

FATformaten is a Dutch term that translates to "FAT formats" in English. It refers to the various file system formats developed by Microsoft for the File Allocation Table (FAT) file system family. These formats, including FAT12, FAT16, and FAT32, were widely used in early versions of MS-DOS and Windows operating systems.

FAT12, the earliest version, was typically used for floppy disks and could support relatively small storage capacities. FAT16 increased the addressing capability, allowing for larger partitions and was commonly found on hard drives in the DOS and early Windows era. FAT32, introduced with Windows 95, further expanded the maximum partition size and file size, making it suitable for larger storage devices.

While these FAT formats were foundational for personal computing, they have limitations. They lack modern features like journaling, file permissions, and robust error checking. Modern operating systems primarily use more advanced file systems like NTFS, exFAT, or APFS. However, FAT formats, particularly FAT32 and exFAT, are still relevant for removable media like USB drives and SD cards due to their broad compatibility across different operating systems and devices. The term FATformaten encompasses the historical significance and ongoing utility of these file system structures.