Why Windows Displays “Do You Want to Scan and Fix (Drive:)?” When Connecting LinkRunner AT
When you connect your LinkRunner AT 1000/2000 (LRAT) to a Windows computer, you may see the message:
“Do you want to scan and fix (Drive:)?”
This typically occurs when an external mass storage device is removed without using the Safe Remove feature. For the LRAT, this message can be safely ignored—it has no effect on the device.
Why Does This Message Appear?
Windows uses a flag called the Dirty Bit to indicate that a storage volume may contain corrupt files or directories. Here’s how it works:
- If a drive is removed without using Safe Remove, Windows writes a Dirty Bit (1) to a hidden area on the device, marking it as “not safely removed.”
- If a drive is removed using Safe Remove, Windows writes a Clean Bit (0) to indicate the drive was properly disconnected.
How This Applies to LinkRunner AT
Although the LinkRunner AT appears to Windows as a mass storage device, it is not a true writable storage device. The LRAT only accepts writes through the LinkRunner AT Manager application. Because Windows cannot write a Clean Bit (0) to the LRAT, it perceives the device as “dirty,” triggering the message.
Key Takeaways
- The “Scan and Fix” message is normal when connecting LRAT to Windows.
- It does not indicate any problem with your LinkRunner AT device.
- No action is required—simply ignore the prompt.