wiping/formatting read-only usb stick

[Just17]

If in my possession at this stage, I would crack it open to see if there was anything I could play with inside 

There *may* be a hardware link, designed for a RO/RW switch if fitted, that has failed, thus leaving the device in RO mode permanently.

[Xenaflux]

I would crack it open to see if there was anything I could play with inside

Sorry to say so, mate, but you are awfully late 

I have it examined with a lens used by Juwellers.called " AGFA LUPE 8x."
Nothing, nada, rien du tout.

But don't worry, I can keep this "" thing "" for as long as I want.
Wife and me went out this afternoon to buy some bookshelves and walking shoes  and I bought a Sandisk 4 Gb ( $5) for my B.i.L
He gets this on for his ( last year, this year and next year ) birthday present. 

There *may* be a hardware link, designed for a RO/RW switch if fitted, that has failed, thus leaving the device in RO mode permanently.

Yes, my thoughts too, but so far I can't see anything << that can be  manipulated one way or another >>.

Will see later. Today is to late and my back feels like broken.
I forgot to take my walking stick with me. Big mistake. ( agaiiin)

Just18, thanks for the thought.
I am not going to let go yet and the tread stays open.

Xena

[Just17]

Just18, thanks for the thought.
I am not going to let go yet and the tread stays open.

Good on ye! 

While you have it available for close (magnified) examination, have a poke at the solder joints of some of the components ....  I read a report where one similar stick had bad joints which caused the stick to become RO.
Maybe applying pressure would cause it to change for a short while .......

Most of all have FUN! 

[Xenaflux]

I read a report where one similar stick had bad joints

Yes, I may do that, I am only a little afraid that I will crack soldered-on components.
I first have to UN-earth my soldering equipment

Thanks

[Xenaflux]

OK, I had to go to the local Technician-shop to buy an extra thin soldering tip.
I went over all solder joints. No change.