USB stick in use.

Have a problem I can't fix for a while now. Whenever I try to format it, make boot disk etc. I get a message that it's in use (by something) no idea what. It can be empty, not formatted, formatted etc. but same thing happens. Otherwise they work fine, I can write to them, delete or do whatever else except format.
In safe mode works fine.

Milton said:

I've had similar experiences too. Usually a simple reboot (or log-out) solves the problem.
I'm not able to explain why this problem occurs, only that I think it's fairly common.
Maybe one of the tech-wizards can explain it Mike.

Milton

Something in Windows is holding to it since it all works in safe mode.

CountMike said:

Something in Windows is holding to it since it all works in safe mode.

I wonder if it is ReadyBoost:



However, in most SSD equipped computers, ReadyBoost is disabled because the computer is fast enough to not need it.

EyeInTheSky said:

I wonder if it is ReadyBoost:



However in most SSD cases, ReadyBoost is disabled because the computer is fast enough to not need it.

It's disabled and can't be enabled.

CountMike said:

It's disabled and can't be enabled.

The only other thing I can think of, is that it is being shared in the network path by way of the "Sharing" Tab.

Not shared

I sometimes change the drive (letter) path in disk management; but only if I am not worried about breaking drive paths. I remember I did this when having a format problem and it worked; but this is the only time I would recommend doing it.

Changed letter to never used one and:

Before that message comes up it says "Requesting access".

Shutdown PC
Pull it out
Check in device manager- hidden devices-Portable Devices- and delete it.
Reformat & rename on another PC, then try it on yours.