Mac and Windows shared external hard drive - possible?

Our set up is a Windows XP pc and iMac 20" and I hoped that we could back up both computers using one external hard drive - that way if the Mac failed we could still use the pc to access the files and vice versa. But having looked into buying one I'm starting to get doubts about whether it is possible. I just don't understand all the technical stuff. Can anyone help in layman's terms how we go about it?
Thanks
Jane

Try iFelix's excellent guides for Windows to Mac networking (link). I understand that he will do Vista versions as soon as possible. 
A FAT32 formatted drive in a NAS Enclosure like this one (link) should suit you needs. Remember that a NAS drive will not have the performance of a Firewire connected drive so you do need to consider your intended usage.
kind regards
mrtotes

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