"Lil' Dave" <spamyourself@virus.net> wrote in message
news:eamuna8%23JHA.4984@TK2MSFTNGP05.phx.gbl...
> "robgraham" <rttgrahamwow@btinternet.com> wrote in message
> news:h9ydnfSwjOApBNHXnZ2dnUVZ8rKdnZ2d@bt.com...
>>I often simply unplug my memory stick without any ceremony, but I know
>>this is frowned on. What is the problem with doing this?
>>
>> Also, when I try to use 'Safely remove hardware' it tells me that it
>> cannot be removed 'at this time, try again later'. Assuming I've waited
>> until all files have finished being saved, why is it that such a message
>> is generated?
>>
>> Rob Graham
>>
>
> Depends on XP and how its setup, and any 3rd party apps installed. Some,
> or XP itself, may be working in the background waiting for the previous
> app or XP itself to be done with it. There may be a lapse in time between
> these things were no indication of access of the drive is visible. The
> user, thinking the PC is done with it, then reaches to remove, and at that
> moment the waiting app or XP itself also accesses it at that same moment.
> That is where the danger lies.
> --
> Dave
>
>

How does this stack up with M.I.5's reply above? He implies - no, states -
that if the stick is configured for fast removal (don't remember doing that
but maybe I did) it's OK to remove it when the activity light goes out.
You're suggesting that this ain't necessarily so.

Rob