Helping people with computers... one answer at a time.
"Volume in use" when trying to format most commonly means you're trying to format and erase the entire disk that has Windows on it.
The most common scenario for this is that the operating system itself is using the drive. For example you can't FORMAT C: if Windows itself resides on or is using C:. The only way to format a drive in use by the system is to reboot, usually from floppy, so the system isn't running. Be careful - this usually means you are wiping out your system - I'm assuming that's what you want.
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Article C1949 - May 25, 2004
Leo A. Notenboom has been playing with computers since he
was required to take a programming class in 1976. An 18 year career as a programmer at Microsoft soon followed.
After "retiring" in 2001, Leo started Ask Leo! in 2003 as a place for answers
to common computer and technical questions. More about Leo.
i want to secure my pc to be formetted by anyother users. can't suggest to use password for system. if any other solution is available than give me fast
Posted by: Rajvir Rana at September 28, 2011 3:42 AMI am trying to format my HP 6730b that has Windows XP inside. but it says: a problem has been detected and windows has been shut down to prevent you computer. check for viruses on your computer. remove any newly installed hard drives or hard drives controllers.
Posted by: Alcido at September 29, 2011 11:23 PMstop: 0*0000007B
i need some help.. can anybody tell me what will i do to my pc cuz i can't find my hard drive when i'm reformatting my pc? plz help me.....? Thanks for your kindness....
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Posted by: blue at November 8, 2011 4:19 AMI am trying to format my Acer Aspire 8730 that has Windows 7 inside. but it says: a problem has been detected and windows has been shut down to prevent you computer. check for viruses on your computer. remove any newly installed hard drives or hard drives controllers.
Posted by: Igor at November 13, 2011 2:04 PMstop: 0*0000007B