ok, lots to look at. i'm going to try using ufs explorer today. see how things go with that.
as for the file structure when formated, i've tried every type. sometimes when i format in the pc the dvr says that it needs to be re-formated, sometimes not. but when ever i back up to the stick, and then put it in the pc, there is nothing on it, no files what so ever. but if i put the usb back in the dvr, it says that the usb stick is x% used.
also going to see what hapens today with maplin and panacom. hopefully i'm going to be sending this p o s back and i'll do what i should have done in the first place and build a dedicated pc box.
i'll post the results