The main use of computer technology is the processing, storage and movement of information in various formats. Over time, data becomes more and more, therefore, special media are developed for their storage. One of these devices is a flash drive, which provides quick storage and the ability to move data from various equipment.
In stores you can find various models that differ in appearance, memory size and cost. Choose the appropriate option for ease of use. Modern options for external drives are used for various purposes. They can be used when working with a computer, laptop, and when using special adapters, they interact with tablets and phones. In our article, we will consider the main problems when connecting a flash drive using an example of a laptop.
Why does my laptop not see a bootable USB flash drive?
The content of the article
- Why does my laptop not see a bootable USB flash drive?
- How to see a flash drive if the laptop does not see it?
Usually, when a removable storage medium is connected correctly, users do not have problems, and the equipment functions normally. However, in some cases, the laptop may simply not recognize the connected equipment. In this case, it is worthwhile to carefully diagnose the system and find out the source of the malfunction. Most often, problems can occur for the following reasons:
- Using the wrong drive format. It is worthwhile to clarify compatibility in advance when choosing and purchasing, if necessary, you can purchase a special adapter for pairing equipment. But, as a rule, Windows has no problems.
- Mechanical damage to a flash drive due to shock or water. If the integrity of the internal components is violated, the removable medium will not be recognized by the system.
- Failures in the computer's operating system can disable some features, including recognition of connected equipment.
- Defeat virus software applications when downloading files from unofficial sources.
- A malfunctioning BIOS may also disable the detection feature.
- Incorrect user settings. In some cases, the cause may be the human factor.
Try troubleshooting yourself if possible. Often the problem is solved by rebooting the computer and closing unnecessary programs.
Important! If the problem could not be identified, or it is too complicated, it is worth contacting a specialized service center for help. Do not discard the warranty, it will provide you with free assistance in the diagnosis and troubleshooting.
How to see a flash drive if the laptop does not see it?
If you are faced with a situation where the laptop does not recognize the USB flash drive, you should read the instructions and re-establish the work, and then reboot the system. If this does not help, you can refer to the BIOS settings. To do this, use the following plan and perform simple manipulations:
- Turn off the laptop or enable it to restart.
- When the main boot menu and a sound signal appear on the screen, press the F10, F9, Del key (depending on the device model) to enter the Bios.
- Among the proposed options, find the "boot method".
- Use the arrows to select this section and activate the "download from flash drive" value. In this case, all files and documents stored on the media will be downloaded automatically.
- Open the desktop, go to the menu and operating parameters, make sure that the connection is correct and check the quality and ability to perform various functions.
There are other ways to view data from external media. For example, you can download data to disk using a special program through a computer, and then open all the data on a laptop.
Important! In some cases, to restore the work, it is necessary to install special applications. If the data was not valuable, buy a new drive or change its format by moving the information to another computer in electronic form.
For quick and comfortable work and downloading various data, use the following tips:
- Do not use a flash drive without antivirus enabled.
- Do not trust the drive to unauthorized persons, each equipment must have one user.
- Delete unnecessary databases periodically.
- Monitor the condition of the equipment, carry out preventive diagnostics, cleaning and troubleshooting.
