User Manual

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Each library also has a device name which is displayed within the user interface. This name is taken from the
storage device itself and will vary from device to device, manufacturer to manufacturer. Examples include:
¸ USB DISK
¸ Hard Disk Drive
¸ iPod
Some badly behaved devices, often flash memory keys, provide gibberish titles. For your convenience, you can
set your own title by creating a file named volume_name.txt in the top level directory. The file should contain your
desired title in plain text up to 20 characters.
SUPPORTED FILE SYSTEMS
Supported file systems are FAT16, FAT32, HFS+ and NTFS (the latter is supported read-only). The FAT16 and
FAT32 file systems are commonly used by pre-formatted media devices and are compatible with the vast majority
of computer systems. NTFS is commonly used by Windows computers, especially for larger drives. HFS+ is the
default format for the Apple Macintosh computer, and is also the default file system for the Apple iPod personal
music player.
In general, we recommend formatting devices with FAT32 whenever possible, as this is the most widely supported
format. Windows XP does not support formatting hard drives larger than 32GB with FAT32. However, there are
free programs available that do support this.
Note for NTFS:
The NTFS file system is supported Read-Only on D2 Director. This limits the functionality slightly, and
requires that you use the Librarian tool to build a library (see below). When possible we recommend
formatting FAT32 instead.
If none of this means very much to you, don't panic! Most USB storage devices come ready formatted in a format
likely to be compatible with D2 Director.
AVOIDING AND FIXING ERRORS
The most important advice to remember is ALWAYS EJECT THE LIBRARY before removing it or switching off
(see “Ejecting a Library” section for details). Failure to do so can and will lead to file system corruption which could
be extremely inconvenient while working. This advice applies equally when disconnecting media from your PC -
both Windows and MacOS provide methods to safely remove devices.
This is particularly important for HFS+ media which must be connected to a Macintosh computer after unsafe
removal before it can be used again with D2 Director.
If you think your media may have become corrupted you should connect it to your PC or Macintosh computer for
maintenance. Under Windows, bring up the device properties and select "Check Now" on the Tools tab. Under
MacOS, run the Disk Utility application.
DEFRAGMENTATION
During normal use a storage device can become fragmented. Fragmentation is a condition whereby files become
split up into many parts. This is invisible to the user but degrades performance, potentially slowing down library
access and causing glitches during playback. From time to time you should defragment your media to ensure
reliable operation. Under Windows, run the Disk Defragmenter program. MacOS does not include a
defragmentation program as HFS+ does not suffer from this problem. However, both commercial and free
programs are available to perform this task for non HFS+ media.
KEEPING YOUR DATA SAFE
Just as it is important to backup your PC hard drive, it is equally critical to always backup your data for D2
Director. No media is infallible - every flash key, hard drive or flash card has a finite life and it is your responsibility
to ensure your data is safe and secure. Never ever gig with the sole copy of your content, always work with a
backup and preferably carry another backup with you in case a device fails (or is lost or stolen) while you work.
While you take the time to make your backups, consider how lucky you are to be able to carry two complete
copies of all your tracks in your pocket or a small bag. Take simple precautions and embrace the digital age!