"You must format this disk before you can use it"

I have 2 external hdds (both operating) but I keep getting -
"You must format this disk before you can use it"



I click cancel, but it keeps coming back.


Can I get rid of this annoying message?

BTW - it only appears on one of the drives.

 

I would try switching the port the problem hdd is connected to first. Then try replacing the USB cable (I've had 3 USB cables go bad on me). Then post back here if successful or not.

 

Already tried both.

 

What make and model is the problematic HDD? I may be able to locate a diagnostic tool for it. It sounds as if it might be beginning to fail on you.

 

It is your spare drive most likely.Did you do a full format and reinstall windows.

 

The drive works perfectly.
Don't understand your question about installing Windows on it.::confused

 

Are you able to connect the HDD to another computer and (hopefully) get your important files off of it?

 

You are misunderstanding.

The drive is fine - all files are there.

The only annoyance is that message.

 

Problem solved.
I replaced the USB cable (2nd one) and the problem has been eliminated.

 

As I said in my first reply, I had 3 USB cables go bad on me. Glad it wasn't anything more serious.