DEKO set-top boxes: Why FAT32 and NTFS matter for your recordings?

Many of us have certainly encountered a situation where recordings from a TV set‑top box were split into several smaller files. At first glance this may seem problematic, especially when we want to keep the entire material in a single file. Why does this happen? The answer lies in the data recording technology and the file systems used by set‑top boxes. In this article, we explain the details of this process, point out solutions and discuss how Mini set‑top boxes Pro the Pro 2 models available in our DEKO store can help you better understand these limitations.

FAT32 file system – where does the 4 GB limit come from?

Most TV set‑top boxes, especially older ones, use the FAT32 file system to manage data on a hard drive or USB flash drive. Although this file system is very universal and compatible with almost all devices, it has one fundamental limitation: the maximum size of a single file is 4 GB.

Why do manufacturers choose FAT32?

1. Wide compatibility: FAT32 is supported by almost every operating system – from Windows, through macOS, to Linux. This means that data stored on the device can be easily read on other platforms.
2. Operational stability: Older set-top boxes and devices with limited processing power run much more efficiently with FAT32 than with more advanced file systems.

Unfortunately, the 4 GB limit is built into the FAT32 structure and cannot be bypassed. Therefore, to save longer or higher-quality recordings (e.g. Full HD or 4K), set-top boxes split them into several smaller segments.

NTFS and exFAT – modern file systems without limits (but not always for recording)

If you want to avoid the issue of recordings being split into smaller files, it’s worth looking into file systems that don’t have such limitations. The most popular alternatives to FAT32 are:

NTFS

NTFS (New Technology File System) is a file system developed by Microsoft. It is characterized by:

• No file size limit: You can save files larger than 4 GB, which solves the problem of splitting recordings.
• Greater stability and efficiency: NTFS is technically more advanced than FAT32, which allows for better data management.

exFAT

exFAT is a simplified version of NTFS, designed for portable devices such as USB flash drives and SD cards. It also has no file size limits while offering greater compatibility with various types of devices.

DEKO Mini, Pro and Pro 2 set-top boxes – NTFS support (playback only)

In our DEKO store you’ll find modern set-top boxes that support the NTFS file system, but with one limitation: NTFS support applies only to for file playback. This means you can use recordings saved in this format on another device, but when recording, the Mini, Pro and Pro 2 save files only in the FAT32 file system.

Why do DEKO set‑top boxes save files only in FAT32?

1. Ensuring broad compatibility: FAT32 ensures that recordings can be played back on many different devices, regardless of their age and operating system.
2. Ease of use: FAT32 is more universal and easier to implement, especially for devices such as set-top boxes.

How to prepare a drive for use with DEKO set-top boxes?

To avoid compatibility issues, it is recommended that you:

1. Format the storage device to the FAT32 file system.
2. Make sure that the size of a single file does not exceed 4 GB.

Does changing the file system have drawbacks?

Although NTFS offers many benefits, it’s worth keeping a few aspects in mind:

• No NTFS support for recording: DEKO set-top boxes they can play files saved in this format, but they don’t record in it.
• Need to format: Switching to NTFS requires formatting the drive, which will erase all data stored on it. It’s a good idea to make a backup before starting this process.

Podsumowanie

The problem of splitting recordings into smaller parts stems from the limitations of the FAT32 file system, which does not allow saving files larger than 4 GB. DEKO decoders Mini, Pro and Pro 2 support the NTFS file system, but only for playback of recordings. Recording still takes place in the FAT32 format, which means you need to split files into smaller parts for longer recordings or higher video quality.

If you want to learn more about our set‑top boxes or need help choosing the right device, get in touch with us! We also invite you to visit our website and check current promotions on set‑top boxes.

Najczęściej zadawane pytania (FAQ)

1. Can I reformat the drive from FAT32 to NTFS without losing data?

Yes, it is possible using appropriate system tools or third‑party software. However, we recommend backing up your data before starting this process.

2. Do all set-top boxes support NTFS?

No, NTFS support depends on the specific set‑top box model. In DEKO’s range, the Mini, Pro and Pro 2 models support this file system, but only for playback.

3. Is exFAT a good alternative?

Yes, if your set-top box doesn’t support NTFS, exFAT may be a better option than FAT32 because it also allows you to store large files.

Shop smart and enjoy the full functionality of your devices with DEKO!