Re-format?

[DanK104]

I just bought a used MacBook (2 GHz, 1 Meg RAM). It has system 10.4 on it and I want to install 10.5. While I usually do an "Archive and Install" when updating software, in this case I will do a complete Erase and Install, in order to completely clear off the previous owner's stuff, and put the computer into more of a "like-new" state.

My question is: should I first re-format the hard drive? Or does the Erase and Install do enough? I.e. is there any reason to re-format, before I do the Erase and Install? If so, are there recommended re-format settings or options I need to know about for when I do it?

Thanks!
DanK

 

[RITZFit]

erase and install is formatting the drive. personally, I would use the one pass zero out option if its someone else's drive.

 

[DanK104]

What does the zero-out option do, and what's the reason to do that? How long does it take (80GB)?

 

[GimmeSlack12]

What does the zero-out option do, and what's the reason to do that? How long does it take (80GB)?

I don't see the zero out as being totally necessary. All it does is zero the entire drive and it takes a long time. I would recommend zeroing it out if you were selling the machine, but for erase and install its really no advantage to you.

Erase and install will get you the 'like new' feeling. Without zeroing.