a) The configuration of signals used for interconnecting equipment in a specified system. Different formats may use different signal composition, reference pulses, etc. A variety of formats are used to record video. They vary by tape width (8 mm, 1/2", 3/4", 1"), signal form (composite, Y/C, component), data storage type (analog or digital) and signal standard (PAL, NTSC, SECAM). b) For data storage media (hard disks, floppies, etc.), the process of initializing the media prior to use. Formatting effectively deletes any data that was previously on the media. See Format Disk.