USB write-protect

[mojo42]

ok, annoying problem...
my USB drive has all the sudden been write protected and i can't format it or do anything with it!!

how do i take the write protection off?? and then format to FAT32?

i was using it as a ReadyBoost drive, and the last couple times i put it in, it came up saying that there were errors on the drive, but i just kinda dismissed it. but now it won't do anything!

help is appreciated.

 

[The_Other_One]

I'm guessing there's more wrong with the device than just write protection. I know some older flash drives had little swithces to control write protection. Are you sure you're doesn't have anything like that?

 

[Method9]

If you don't mind opening the PC up, you might be able to DBAN it if you disconnect the hard drive temporarily:
http://raindanz.blogspot.com/2010/03/wiping-usb-flash-drives-with-dban.html

EDIT: For those not familiar with DBAN: http://www.dban.org/