even though have no programs running i cant 'safely remove hardware' my usb 2gb pen?

Question

that is stuck in the front of my PC.it just keeps saying 'the device 'generic volume' cannot be stopped because a program is still accessing it'.
but that is boll*x,
i dont have anything running at the time being
thanks

Answer 1

Firstly, save and close all files and applications. Then click on the green icon (bottom right of the screen) which enables safe removal of the USB. If the message comes up that a program is still accessing it, it may that you have temporary files (.tmp).

If you have been doing a lot of copying, pasting and saving, then temporary files are created of all the copies saved. Try deleting these, via 'My Computer' or Windows Explorer/File Manager.

Also, try opening a file, then closing it again. That sometimes works, then retry clicking the green icon to see if safe removal can be carried out. If that does not work, carefully pull out the USB pen, but ensure the red light is not flashing.

Then, put the USB pen back in, give the computer time to read it, then open a file, close it and the program, then click on the green icon again and the safe removal message should come up.

Answer 2

you should have all important documents backed up, if you are unsure, create a folder on your desktop and copy the contents of the memory stick into the folder, theres your backup, then just pull the damn thing out.

Answer 3

It doesnt really matter with a USB device, just unplug it anyway. It will be fine.

Answer 4

Just rip it out! I never bother with that safely remove bull.

Answer 5

Shut down then pull it out. That'll be safe, I promise.

Answer 6

have you tried shutting down the pc first?

Answer 7

take it out, your probably getting a virus...get a virus scan on your usb and your comuter!!

Answer 8

just take it out.