| Problem | Likely cause | SP formatter solution | |--------|-------------|------------------------| | Tool doesn’t see the drive | Driver conflict or physical issue | Try different USB port/cable. Use DiskPart first to clean the disk. | | Format fails at 99% | Bad sectors or controller lock | Run once. If still fails, drive may be dying. | | Drive still shows wrong size | Hidden partition | Use SP Toolbox → “Restore Full Capacity” mode. | | “Write protected” error | Some USB flash drives have a physical lock switch | Check switch. If none, try regedit or SP’s “Remove Protection” tool. |