Two people above are retarded. It's a well known issue that M$ is too lazy to fix. Technically , closing programs that are using files/folders on the usb should work, but 99% of the time it doesnt work. Your best bet is to shut down windows, then unplug the usb device .
yes I can help, your hard-drive is still in use, ie. close windows that relate to you using this drive like programs or if you were searching for files, close these windows and programs so you can safely remove hardware
when plugged in the light on the hard drive just flickers on and off instead of a solid blue light...
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when plugged in the light on the hard drive just flickers on and off instead of a solid blue light which would indicate it's operation