I had problems with my distro (Ubuntu 11.04) and with flash drives not being accessible, not being able to unmount, or the desktop freezing. Problem solved below.

I finally discovered "u3-tool" and found this code

which removed the offending u3 stuff. At last I could access 11.04 without freezing when a usb flash drive was installed.

I notice that particular code did eliminate the code, but maintained the files (for me that was good).

Would like to have a few examples of other code combinations of u3-tool. Example: how to partition and wipe out its contents, or purge it and still have it useable as a data disk.

U3 devices under Windows appear as a CD, containing the U3 launcher plus the data portion of the flash drive. Linux doesn't like the CD bit which is stuck at the front of the drive. If you use it under Windows you should find an option to turn the drive into a data only device, though you'd have to backup any data you have on it before running. It should be OK to use with Linux after this without problem.

my

Play Bonny!

After using the u3-tool, I did try XP out. It doesn't appear like it used to, with the U3 and menu popping up, but is accessible as a data device.

I have 4 flash drives: 1 JDSECURE that did not require any modification. Apparently not U3.
I have two Sandisk Microcruzers and one Memorex U3. I tried 1 Cruzer flash drive using the Sandisk removal tool on XP. The Memorex I used the Sandisk tool also. They work great.

I tried the remaining Cruzer using the u3-tool and the command above. It gives you are stern warning that everything will be removed, and gives you a choice to back out. I had backed up the files, so I went ahead. It removed the U3 stuff, but retained data. For Linux only people the u3-tool works great.

But what command do you use if you want to purge everything from the flash drive? An Inquiring mind wants to know. I know you can manually do it. Thanks