There are two ways to make a USB stick read only. One method will make the USB read-only in anything it is connected to, so you could say this is a universal way of making a flash drive write protected.

The other way is a PC specific solution where some registry edits are required to any computer the USB flash drive is connected to.

When we say 100% permanent, this means the USB stick is read only (write protected) on all devices, whether it be computers like a Mac, Windows PC, Linux box or non-processor based products like a car stereo. This permanent solution also means the status of the drive cannot be changed. The other method flags a USB device to be read only in relationship to the PC it is connected to so that whenever that USB stick is connected to that computer, it makes the USB read only and blocks all write commands to the device.

Most times an IT manager or content owner wants the USB stick to be read only so the files cannot be deleted or formatted off the drive. Another reason for making a USB read only is for the original files to remain the same and blocks the ability for files to be changed or manipulated. Finally, it’s smart to have USBs read only so that virus’ don’t jump onto the drive and possibly spread to other computers.

Let us start with the less permanent way because it’s easier to do and doesn’t require any specific hardware.

You will need a Windows7 machine or higher. The Windows7 machine will have DiskPart utility which allows us to perform all sorts of cool things to flash drives, like setting write protection.

• Connect the USB to your Windows computer.
• To begin, go to your Windows Start and in the Search Field type cmd

This will run your Command prompt.

• Next, you will want to get to the C root of the Command prompt and if you are signed in as a user you can simply type cd\ this will get you back to the root of the C drive.
• Type DISKPART
• Type LIST DISK

Now you will need to find the USB stick connected to your PC. Most likely it’s DISK 1

PRESS RELEASE:

LAKE FOREST, Calif.–(BUSINESS WIRE)–Nexcopy Inc., a leading manufacturer in USB Duplicator solutions, announces their all new CF Duplicator system for data loading to Compact Flash cards.

• CF Duplicator with all new design
• Deep CF sockets with guides for easy insert and removal
• CF Duplicator available in 15, 30 and 45 target systems
• Powerful duplicator software with many advanced features
• Unique data may be copied to each card

Nexcopy is announcing the all new design of our CF Duplicator solutions. These robust and reliable CF duplicator systems are available in 15 socket, 30 socket and 45 socket configurations.

The new CF Duplicators by Nexcopy are designed with functionality and ergonomics in mind. With top loading CF sockets in combination with deep rail guides to easily insert and remove CF media the new system will virtually eliminate bent pins from high volume duplication of CF media.

“Coupling the power of Nexcopy’s Drive Manager software and the new CF duplicator design our system can handle any configuration requirement by contract manufacturers or fulfillment houses,” reports Greg Morris, President of Nexcopy. “The system is PC based and provides tools such as duplication from IMG files, unique data streaming to each socket, network connectivity and rich Graphical User Interface for performance feedback and log reporting.”

CompactFlash (CF) cards are primarily used for storing digital data in a wide range of devices, especially those that require high-capacity and high-performance storage solutions. While their popularity has somewhat waned with the emergence of other storage formats like SD cards and SSDs, CF cards are still utilized in various applications, including:

Video Cameras and Camcorders: CF cards are commonly used in professional video cameras and camcorders for recording high-quality video footage. Their fast data transfer rates and reliability make them ideal for capturing high-definition video in demanding production environments.

Embedded Systems and Industrial Applications: CF cards are frequently used in embedded systems, industrial computers, and electronic devices that require rugged and reliable storage solutions. Their durability, high storage capacities, and resistance to shock, vibration, and extreme temperatures make them suitable for use in harsh operating environments.

Data Storage and Transfer: CF cards are also used for general-purpose data storage and transfer in various devices, including computers, laptops, digital audio recorders, and handheld devices. They can be used to store documents, music, videos, software, and other digital files.

Gaming Consoles and Arcade Machines: CF cards have been used in some gaming consoles, arcade machines, and gaming peripherals for storing game data, firmware updates, and other content. While not as common as other storage formats like SD cards or internal storage, CF cards have found niche applications in certain gaming systems.

Medical Devices and Equipment: CF cards are sometimes used in medical devices and equipment, such as medical imaging devices, patient monitoring systems, and diagnostic equipment. Their reliability, compatibility, and storage capacity make them suitable for storing medical data and images.

Data Recovery and Forensics: CF cards are sometimes used in data recovery and forensic applications, where they may be used to recover data from damaged or corrupted storage media, analyze digital evidence, or perform forensic investigations.

All CF duplicators by Nexcopy can copy from an archive IMG file, from a physical master device and include binary bit by bit verification functions. These systems are ideal for bootable CF cards. The new CF Duplicators by Nexcopy Incorporated are available for immediate purchase with a starting price of $1,299 US dollars.

Source:   Business Wire.