How Do I Erase Corrupted Files in a Flash Drive?

As technology has advanced, flash drives have become available in smaller sizes.

Flash memory, like that featured in flash drives, continually increase in storage capacity and at the same time continually drop in price. Unlike magnetic hard drives featured in most computers, flash memory features no moving parts and needs no external power source, so it classifies as a solid-state chip. Because of the overwriting capabilities flash memories possess, you have a few options when trying to rid a flash drive of corrupted or unwanted files.

Instructions

Individual Files

1. Click on the Windows icon to bring up the "Start" menu and then click on "Computer" to bring up all available drives on the computer.

2. Double-click on the flash drive device that contains the corrupted files.

3. Locate the file you wish to delete, right-click on it and select "Delete" from the available options. This will send the file to the Recycle Bin.

Format the Drive

1. Click on the Windows icon to bring up the "Start" menu.

2. Select "Computer" to view all available drives.

3. Right-click on the flash device that you wish to format (which will erase all files) and select "Format" from the drop-down menu. This will format the drive and send all files to the Recycle Bin.

Tips & Warnings

• Hold down the "Ctrl" key when clicking on files to select a group as opposed to selecting and deleting files one at a time.

• The files you delete will still be on your computer until you empty your recycle bin.

References

• Computerworld: Flash Memory