

ExFAT: ExFAT is almost as widely compatible as older FAT file systems, but doesn’t have the limitations.MS-DOS (FAT): This is the most widely compatible file system, but it has some limitations–for example, files can only be 4GB or less in size each. Avoid this file system unless you have a device that requires FAT32.OS X Extended (Case-sensitive, Journaled, Encrypted): This is the same as the standard OS X Extended (Case-senstiive) file system, but with encryption.You’ll have to enter a password, and you’ll need to provide that password whenever you connect your drive to your Mac. OS X Extended (Journaled, Encrypted): This is the same as the standard OS X Extended file system, but with encryption.This option exists because it matches the traditional behavior of UNIX and some people might need it–don’t select this unless you know you need it for some reason. By default, Mac OS X doesn’t use a case-sensitive file system. OS X Extended (Case-sensitive, Journaled): On a case-sensitive file system, “file” is different from “File”.This file system is necessary if you plan on using the drive for Time Machine backups–otherwise, you’ll want to use exFAT for maximum compatibility. OS X Extended (Journaled): This is the default, but it’s only natively supported on Macs.You’ll need to choose between several file systems: Connect the USB device to another computer.You’ll be asked to provide a name for the disk, which will appear and identify the disk when you connect it to a Mac, PC, or another device.Connect the USB device to another USB port.You should see a device disappear from System Information when you remove the USB device, and it should appear again when you reconnect it. Wait a few minutes, and click File > Refresh Information. Open System Information and disconnect the USB device from your computer.If you install a new USB device and Mac OS does not detect it, you can complete the following tests to identify the issue: Click About This Mac > More Info > System Report.In the top-left of the screen, click the Apple icon.To open System Information, complete the following:

You can find the name of the chipset by navigating to, searching for the product ID, and clicking the Technical Specifications tab. The USB device is displayed in System Information, under the name of the chipset. Examples of appropriate headings for a USB video adapter include "USB without the driver installed" or "Graphics and Displays". To determine if Mac OS detects your USB device, you need to open System Information on your computer to see if your USB device is listed under the appropriate heading or is listed with an error (for example, "Device has not been configured").
