I have this same question, and it has been quite hard to find an answer.
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That link to the WD support does NOT address this question.
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The link is for when WD elements is “not recognized or detected in Windows XP after installation and usage” – but the question from Ross, and myself also, is with a NEW Elements which has never been used.
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On the WD web page, the information for new WD elements HD clearly states “compatible with windows XP” (and there is no mention of any reformatting that might be required) (Sept. 2016)
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– So I am wondering: DO ALL ELEMENTS, now, no longer work on Windows XP?
– Some people have told me that they do not, others tell me they do, the WD store web page says that they do, there are mixed messages about this.
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So, my question is:
Currently (Sept. 2016) is a WD Elements 1TB drive compatible with windows XP without any re-formatting by the user? – YES or NO?
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Can a WD Authority give an answer to this?
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If the answer is “NO” – Then I have been told that it is possible to RE-FORMAT - the WD Elements so that it will work on Windows XP (But I have not tried this yet, as I’m still not sure of this entire question)
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If the WD elements DO need to be reformated to be used on Windows xp – I wonder if someone could write a full description of the entire process for Re-formatting a new (never been used) WD Elements so that it is compatible with Windows xp – (and I am hoping, that this Re-format - will ALSO make to WD elements ALSO STILL compatible with Windows 7 and above.
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From what I understand - there may be many steps in this process…
- writing Zeros to the drive
- initializing the drive
- formatting the drive
(but I am a beginner - I’m just trying to learn about these details)
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I would volunteer to write this guide – but I would like some feedback and assistance from some of the WD experts first (to be sure that I am not totally confused).
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ADVICE please…
