Hi,

I have a 64 Gb generic USB flash driver and I was formatting it with FAT32 eventhough usb itself only allowed to exFAT partition module.
Now, every time I insert it to any pc (XP, 7/8) it says "media is write protected".
So, any idea how to get rid of protection?

Hi, I believe you have to use the MP Tools to fix it. If you google write protect and MP Tools you will see plenty of links.

If it is Sandisk Cruzer, then it is probably not fixable. but you say it is generic, so it could be a fake drive. What does USBdeview say about it (from nirsoft) and MSinfo32 in the storage section?

There is a registry setting to write protect flash drives, but I dont think this would be your issue.


Windows decided that for you, but no reason you cant format it with anything you like. You can use other tools or command line to format, and this should not have caused your issue.


You will need to know the controller chip... you have to open the case. Some good quality pics of both sides of the PCB would help us help you
Cheers

Hey tiger1, good info from HaQue, just my 2c a bit lighter weight.

What was on the drive before formatting? Were you trying to rid the drive of preinstalled software?

I've heard tales of promo sticks using CDFS partitions which are read only and cripple Windows ability to write to them. Altho 64G seems a bit big for one of those.

Have you tried Fdisk to create partitons?

Formating 64GB with FAT32 ? maybe try google for fat32format util.

HaQue, LTNS
if one doesn't feel confident to pull the lid off might chipGenius or USBFlashInfo utils be any use, in terms of chip ID and finding the right MPtool?

then off to flashboot site to look it up?

Kern

_________________
Когда хочется кушать – съешь всё.
Голод не тётка!

Hi Kern, hows tricks.. Yes certainly if the drive is behaving enough it should show controller and flash (if supported) Good idea.

generally this type of thing results in a dead drive because the tools required to do it are pretty tricky and not well documented, and if the user has the skillz to go through it, they usually do it without needing to post to places like here. Nothing meant about intelligence or brains here, more the experience working with this stuff helps immensely. Advice :read lots and lots first before writing to the drive, and if you want post here again to check.

LOL! HaQue.
I did not know this was a professional forum, so can you lead me any forum for novices??
I did lots of reading, then found this forum, thought might be helpful.
Anyways, I tried another trick which is;

"How to remove a write protection from your USB memory Stick if there is no write protection ON or OFF button or tab?

1. Shutdown your computer or laptop
2. Insert USB Memory Stick into your laptop or Computer
3. Turn on computer and then immediately start pressing (F8) key then Advanced Boot Options screen will come up
4. Select Safe Mode with Command Prompt
5. After loading files if your USB Memory Stick drive letter is (G) for example then write as
6. C:\windows\system32>G: and press enter
7. G:\>format G: and press enter
8. If ask you (Y/N) then press (Y) and press enter
9. Now a full format will start which remove write protection from USB Memory Stick?"

So, I followed exact route, eventually I was able to save only 5 photos and rest cannot save because of infamous "WRITE PROTECTION". Now, even cannot delete them.
I think I am the one to blame, first buying from Amazon, buying generic, no name brand were the hassle.
Amazon says, it contains hazardous material so no return acceptable.
LMFAO!!, what on earth you sent me in the first place than?
All in all, this is my last day to spend time on that @#$@ USB, if not I will call vendor and Amazon for my refund.

Thanks a zillion guys for your help, honestly!

I forgot the mention.
It gives this strange message when I save other files, any idea about Device\Harddisk1\DR3

to be clear, you did the right thing coming here. I meant that the tools are so tricky to use, most people that have these issues are going to find it very difficult to understand whats going on. My wording wasn't great.
This is a forum for everyone. You will see the pro's also ask questions. We all are being exposed to new things. Forum also is aimed at helping people such as yourself.



I doubt that will work. I believe your drive is either fake or faulty or both. Fake drives often work just fine.

If you can get a refund, best option.


No problems, thanks(in advance) for trying the methods/advice suggested and reporting back and also for answering any questions we have that might help you