1. Best Answer - Chosen by Asker
1) (skip the format, just unhide them)
Open a dos prompt (Start >> Run >> cmd) and type:
attrib -r -h -s ./s x:*.*
This will change the attributes of all of the files on the pen drive. Readonly, hidden, and system
attributes will be removed. Replace the X: with your pen drive's drive letter. Now you will be able
to see them in Explorer, and delete them, without formatting anything.
2) (format with DOS commands)
Open the DOS prompt (Start >> Run >> cmd)
Type:
FORMAT X: /FS:FAT32 /Q /V:PenDrive
This will reformat the Pen drive, using the FAT32 file system, and label the drive PenDrive.
Replace X: with the actual drive letter of your Pen Drive. For more help on this command, type:
FORMAT /?
at the command prompt.
3) (format using Windows GUI, Explorer)
Open Explorer, go to My Computer, right click on the drive letter and select Format... from the
popup menu. Pen drives are usually formatted with the FAT32 file system, but if you're of a mind,
you can also use NTFS. But keep in mind, if you use NTFS you won't be able to take the pen drive
out, without a reboot.
Source(s):
Own a computer consulting biz