How to format a Sony 4GB memory stick Pro Duo without files being erased? I tried transferring photos to a pc via memory card reader but it says that it has to format the memory stick. I tried inserting the memory stick to the cam but it says 'Error formatting Memory Stick'. Help! :( I don't want to lose all my photos.

try pluging it straight into the pc with a card reader and see if it picks up, this could also be a camera formating problem so try formating it in your computer.

hope this helps and good luck

first try to format it in your camera. if that doesnt work, try another camera or on your PC. If that doesnt work try formatting on a different card reader (maybe on another PC)

if that doesnt work, it might be really defective. Have it replaced

I would suggest formating the memory card through the options on your camera. If you reformat the memory card and you still get the same error then you have a bad card. Just like anything else the cards will break down internally over time.

You need a new memory card reader. The reader isn't supporting the higher capacity of the new Memory stick. For a workaround, hook the camera directly into the computer via USB cable - then the camera itself becomes the reader and can transfer all of the pictures. Look for a reader that specifically does Memory Stick PRO Duo sticks, the PRO means the higher capacity.

Files on a flash drive and memory cards in a card reader can be corrupted if it is not removed from the USB port properly.
Before removing the flash drive click on the Safely Remove Hardware icon and then click on the flash drive you want to remove and then remove the flash drive when the computer message says it is Safe to remove.
To restore the memory card and flash drive you may need to format the flash drive, but you will lose the data stored on the flash drive.
If you need the data on the flash drive these WEB sites may help: -
Digital Photo Recovery
www.artplus.hr/adapps/eng/dpr.htm
www.CardRecovery.com

There are certain folders that the PSP puts on the stick when it formats it. Format the new stick on the PSP first. Then, you can transfer you files to it.

Sorry to hear that but I reckon it ceased for good, at times their not 100% reliable but you can try using an adaptor with it via your PC to see if you can retrieve all your data’s but the chance is slim from experience, you might be looking to get a new one, if you did buy new one try backup it up from time to time via your PC or alternative storage so you can retrieve your data’s when your memory card come to a halt

use the sony utility that comes with ur device?

Took it to Jessops by the process of elimination "Integral reader faulty."
What a waste of many hours !

Dont panic... Just insert the memory stick in to a card reader and donot try to open it. but make sure that your memory stick gets detected.Then you can use any of the file recovery softwares to recover the photographs with out formating.I generally use the free app "PC file recovery". In case your memory stick is not detected in the first place, then There is no other option other than formatting. But the recovery software can recover 90% of the photos even after formatting.
If this doesnt work, post back. I will explain in more detail.