Here are some useful (Windows) tools I found myself using every once in a while.
SDFormatter (by Panasonic/Matsushita). This software formats all SD memory cards and SDHC memory cards using a formatting program that complies with official SD memory card requirements. Generic operating system formatting software, on the other hand, does not and will not provide optimal performance.
Download: sdcard.org, Panasonic
HP USB Storage Format Tool. This utility will format any USB flash drive, with your choice of FAT, FAT32 (allows creation of volumes larger than 32 GB), or NTFS partition types. Optionally you can also make the disk bootable.
Download: HP Mirror
