I'm trying to format my c: drive, and I get this message when I try it:

Format cannot run because the volume is in use by another process. Format may run if this volume is dismounted first. ALL OPEN HANDLES TO THIS VOLUME WOULD THEN BE INVALID. Would you like to force a dismount on this volume? (Y/N)

When I put 'y', I get this message:

Cannot lock the drive. The volume is still in use.



Anyone know how I can format my drive? I used to format my old computer every now and then, but I've never done it since I got a new computer with Windows XP.

Thanks.

 

try to boot from a start up floppy disk (DOS), then format C

 

With Windows 98, I had the option to restart the computer in DOS mode and then do the format, but I don't see that option with WinXP... am I missing something?

 

use the /x option

 

I'm in the chat room if ya wanna stop in and chat

 

format c: /x

 

i'm busy playing games

 

my opponent is a beginner so i get time to post

 

Tried that, got this:

*normal format warning here*
Verifying 58635M
Cannot lock the drive. The volume is still in use.

 

try eating some cheese.