Sony Microvault USB stick problem

[Matchworn Shirts]

My Sony USB stick is no longer read by my computer (the light does not flash on the stick), therefore I cannot access any of my files.
Anyone had similar problems with USB sticks no longer working - if so how can I retrieve the files?

Thanks in advance for any help

[Simon Pieman]

Have you tried it in another computer/usb port?

Sounds like either the usb port or the flash drive is bust. If it's the falsh drive I doubt you'll be able to retrieve the files.

First I would put it in and then do the 'safely remove devices' option in the task bar.

Failing that, I'd try putting it in before boot and then if still not detected I would reboot with it still left in.

It might be helpful if people knew what operating system you use and if you have upgraded.

[Simon Pieman]

Oh and when I say the usb port is bust, it could simply be an option that needs re-enabling, so don't worry too much about that.

[Simon Pieman]

In fact when I think of it more I think I know the problem:

Right click on my computer and then select 'properties'. Select the 'hardware' tab and then click on the 'device manager' box.  At the bottom of the device list will be something called 'Universal Serial Bus Controller'. Expand that tree by clicking on the + sign and then look for somethign called 'USB root hub'. Right click again on this and then select 'properties'. There will be a tab at the top called 'Power Management'. Select that. There should be a tick box that says 'allow the computer to turn off this device to save power'. Uncheck the box. Do it for all of the USB root hubs that you can see.

Reboot if the drive is still not getting power. I hope that works.

[axs]

well? did it? suspense. killing. me.

[Matchworn Shirts]

Cheers for the advice/help Si Pie.
I think that the flash drive on the stick is broken, I cannot get the thing to work - the card isn't read and the light doesn't come on.

[axs]

finally i can go to sleep, the suspense is over.

[flammableBen]

Get a cup, and fill it with hot water (bit lower that boiling).

Add some iron filings and surround the cup with 5 equally spaced magnets.

Put the USB drive in the cup of water and leave for a few hours.

This will "Recharge" it.

[Fred Elliot]

Get a cup, and fill it with hot water (bit lower that boiling).

Add some iron filings and surround the cup with 5 equally spaced magnets.

Put the USB drive in the cup of water and leave for a few hours.

This will "Recharge" it.

I have heard that tip as well