How to Remove a USB Memory Stick
By Kefa Olang
A USB memory stick is a portable flash drive that allows you to backup files or transfer them from one computer to another. To avoid damaging or corrupting your flash drive and the information stored on it, it is important to safely remove your USB memory stick from your computer. Whether you are using a PC or Mac, you can protect your memory stick by removing it safely using the built-in hardware removal tool.
Step 1
Close any programs or files currently using the USB memory stick. Save your files to avoid losing them. If the memory stick has an LED light, you can confirm that all activity is completed if the light is no longer flashing.
Step 2
Locate the "Safely remove hardware" icon on the desktop if you are using a Windows computer. Right-click the icon, and click "Safely remove hardware" to launch the hardware window.
Step 3
Locate your USB memory stick's icon in the hardware window, and click "Stop." When prompted, unplug the USB memory stick from the computer.
Step 4
Drag the memory stick's icon from the desktop to the trash bin if you are using a Mac. Alternatively, press and hold the "Ctrl" key, and right-click the USB memory stick's icon located on the desktop. Click "Eject." Unplug the memory stick from the computer.
References
Writer Bio
Kefa Olang has been writing articles online since April 2009. He has been published in the "Celebration of Young Poets" and has an associate degree in communication and media arts from Dutchess Community College, and a bachelor's degree in broadcasting and mass communication from the State University of New York, Oswego.