I use compact flash memory together with a CF to IDE adapter as a hard drive replacement on industrial controls. After loading a CF with Linux, and then trying to load it with DOS, the Linux install leaves some kind of trace that prevents the CF working as a DOS disk. It will not boot. How can I clear or reformat the CF? Would deleting the boot record help?

It's easy if you have special utility for your CF card, check disk from package.

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Thanks a million. I am guilty of DRTFM. And that is after providing Tech support on computerized machinery for 20+ years. I never realized that the devices came with a CD.

OK, I am still at it. I used the RescuePRO software that came with the CF. I also used (on a different CF) the "Hard Disk Low Level Format Tool 2.36 build 1181" that I had downloaded from hddguru. They both appear to have worked. That is what the dialog box said. I can access the CF devices in Windows. When I try to install a bootable Linux on the CF, I get a message that the "compact flash cannot be formatted" Any ideas as to how I can proceed? It would really create a vacuum if I could not re-use the CF. TIA, Jeffrey

"Compact Flash cannot be formatted"?

Are you plugging it into a CF reader or an IDE adapter? If you're going to use it as a hard drive, you have to use it as a hard drive when you install it. USB installers work differently.

Also, low level formatting CF is idiotic. Blanking it by writing zero to every sector is better.

Thanks, I will try it when I finish traveling this week. I will let you know.