Canon PowerShot S3 IS PowerShot S3 IS Camera User Guide Advanced - Page 37

Before Using the Camera - Operations Formatting Memory Cards You should always format a new memory card or one from which you wish to erase all images and other data. z Please note that formatting (initializing) a memory card erases all data, including protected images and other file types. z When the icon is displayed, audio only data exists. Exercise adequate caution before formatting the memory card. 1 (Set up) Menu [Format]. See Menus and Settings (p. 27) 2 [OK] SET button. z To perform a low level format, use the S or T button to select [Low Level Format] and the W or X button to add a check mark. z If [Low Level Format] is selected, you can cancel formatting partway by pressing the SET button. You can still use the memory card without problem even if formatting was halted partway, but the data is erased completely. Displays when audio only data is present (p. 102) Low Level Format You should select the [Low Level Format] option if you suspect the read/write speed of a memory card has dropped. A low level format may require 2 to 3 minutes with some memory cards. 35