Well, it is just a disc drive, so, you _COULD_ format it using window's build in formatter, but, if you wish to retain it's ability to play mp3s, that probably won't work. However, I have formatted mine with the for-metioned method, and then again with the Apple formatter, and, it worked for MP3s, so, there is little if any chance of doing permanent damage by trying the standard format option.
PhilKC