How to Revive a Flash Drive
You can often revive a flash drive by reformatting it on your computer. This process can be done using the software provided on either a PC or Mac. When completed, your flash drive will be erased and reformatted to its original "like new" condition.
Instructions
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On a PC
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Plug your flash drive into your computer and then click the "Start" button.
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Click on "My Computer."
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Right-click the flash drive you want to revive and select "Format."
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Select the format you want to reformat your flash drive to, such as FAT 32 (which is known for its compatibility with both PC and Mac).
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Click "Start" and then click "OK." Your flash drive will then be reformatted. When complete, you will have successfully revived a flash drive.
On a Mac
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Plug your flash drive into your computer and then click the "Finder."
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Select "Applications," "Utilities" and open the "Disc Utility."
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Highlight your flash drive inside of the "Disc Utility" and click "Erase" to open the erase tab.
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Select the format you want to reformat your flash drive to, such as FAT 32 (which is known for its compatibility with both PC and Mac).
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Click the "Erase" button within the "Erase" tab. Your flash drive will then be reformatted. When complete, you will have successfully revived a flash drive.
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References
- Photo Credit flash drive image by Antonio Oquias from Fotolia.com