How to unlock a USB flash (memory stick)

Does anyone know if there is a program that unlocks a usb flash? I have a USB flash that is somehow locked. I can see it on the "My computer" window like any other device but it prohibits me from accessing it. It gives me a "Please insert a disk" message, like a USB printer does.

 

What OS are you running? You may have to get drivers for the flashdrive. Mine would not work on WIN98 till after installing drivers. Flashdrive is not locked or it would ask for a password.

 

My mistake, problem identified! I now understand why I couldn't access the USB flash. It is part of a program that was installed on my pc (for other users, not for me), somekind of key. Not a normal USB flash.

Is there a way to use it as a normal USB flash now. Unlock it or format it? Maybe even store in a folder on my hard drive the info it contains (just in case)?

Thanks for the help.

 

Check out and read all comments in
http://forums.majorgeeks.com/showthread.php?t=105071

Refer to my post #5 on how to format a USB stick to NTFS (thanks Halo), but remember it won't work on a W98 PC if formatted to NTFS. Hope this helps. Bazza

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Thanks Bazza, just read the info on formating the USB. It still gives the "Please insert a disk" message. Can't access the Properties option. Thats why I think its somehow locked. Is there anything else to do? Is there something like a 'scan/identify tool' to find out whats going on with this USB?

 

What is the capacity of the USB stick? Is it worth the trouble?
They are getting cheaper every day.:cool
Sorry, I can't assist further. :cry

Anyone else, please step in. Bazza

PS: Maybe repost this in the Hardware forum?
http://forums.majorgeeks.com/forumdisplay.php?f=22

Baz.

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what is the make of the thumb drive