> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://docs.freeflysystems.com/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://docs.freeflysystems.com/ecosystem/payloads/payload-maintenance/usb-formatting.md).

# USB Formatting

### Recommended USB-C Flash Drive

* The LR1, A7R4, and OGI Payloads ship with this [**USB-C flash drive**](https://www.amazon.com/dp/B09WB26V18?ref=ppx_yo2ov_dt_b_product_details\&th=1)**.**
* We recommend a USB 3.1 drive with a write speed above 50 mb/s.

{% hint style="info" %}
The USB thumb drive can slow down over time. This can propagate issues throughout the system. Fully [reformatting](https://freefly.gitbook.io/astro-public/other-user-manuals/payloads/astro-mapping-payload/maintenance-manual/usb-formatting#formatting-the-usb-drive) the drive could help resolve this issue, but it is best practice to replace the flash drive if you are experiencing issues after a long period of use.
{% endhint %}

### USB Setup

The USB flash drive included will be formatted to work with Astro. If you encounter issues or would like to use a different USB flash drive with Astro, format using the instructions below.

## Formatting the USB Drive

#### Mac

1. Open Disk Utilities and click on the flash drive in the sidebar.
2. Select the Erase option at the top of the window.
3. In the Format dropdown, select MS-DOS FAT and click Erase.
4. Once that completes, click the Eject arrow near your flash drive on the sidebar.

#### Windows

1. Open This PC to show all connected drives.
2. Locate the USB drive you want to use with Astro, right-click on the image, and select "Format...". A small window should open.
3. Select ExFat under the File System dropdown and click Start.
4. Once that completes, right-click on the USB drive in This PC again and select Eject.


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