The FAT file system has been around since 1980. Updated editions are known as “FAT12,” “FAT16,” and “FAT32.” FAT formatting is ideal for the management and exchange of smaller data volumes. The FAT file system is now seen as somewhat outdated because even the latest version (FAT32, launched in 1997) only allows for the exchange of data files up to 4 GB in size. Additionally, maximum partition sizes are restricted to 8 terabytes (TB) with FAT32.
Despite these restrictions, FAT formatting is still in regular use. For example, it is used with mobile data carriers (external hard drives, USB sticks) and specialist hardware (digital cameras, smartphones, routers, TVs, car radio, etc.), allowing for maximum compatibility.