USB capacity suddenly reduced

[foxli]

I bought an 8GB USB flash drive to use for school last August. I haven't had any problems with it until this week. I formatted it and loaned it to my boyfriend to create a factory reset file for his computer (I think he used the kind that writes a DVD file to USB to read like a DVD--I've used that kind of file before without problems). When I took it back, I reformatted it, but now my computer reads it as having a capacity of just under 1.5 MB. Yes, with an M. There are no visible files on the USB, and I tried formatting a couple more times. What happened? Can I fix this?

 

[Chainzsaw]

Hello,

USB keys do not last forever. After so many writes to it, it will no longer be "usable".

Can you try formatting it another computer? What does it say the size is in another computer?

Depending on the model - you might be able to go to the manufacturer's website and get some diagnostic tools.

 

[foxli]

Hello,

USB keys do not last forever. After so many writes to it, it will no longer be "usable".

Can you try formatting it another computer? What does it say the size is in another computer?

Depending on the model - you might be able to go to the manufacturer's website and get some diagnostic tools.

Just checked and formatted on a different computer. It's still reading at just below 2 MB.

It's not particularly high-end, but I'll try the manufacturer website. Thanks!

 

[scout_03]

did you reformat at the usb drive at the default settings fat 32 or ntfs

 

[Chainzsaw]

Just checked and formatted on a different computer. It's still reading at just below 2 MB.

It's not particularly high-end, but I'll try the manufacturer website. Thanks!

I'm guessing the key is toast then. Spend 10 bucks for another 8GB one

Here is a decent quality one (11.99$) 8GB Patriot Xporter

http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16820220252

 

[foscooter]

Microcenter had branded USB sticks cheap! 4GB for $4.50, 8GB for $6, 32GB for $19.99. I've used 'em all, never have issues, yet.

 

[xtreme5]

hey foxli, formatt it with DOS mode
open command prompt enter your usb drive alphabet like if it is h: or i: format and hit enter...
Hope thats help..

 

[WyomingKnott]

IMHO, the best way to test a USB stick is with h2testw: http://fightflashfraud.wordpress.com/download-h2testw-free-and-test-flash-memory/ .
It's a thorough tester that was actually designed to detect the "real" capacity of "fake flash."