Interesting you can't change setting. I don't know XP Pro but maybe someone else can help there.

I'd try a few easy things:

1. Try a different USB cable.

2. Use the Safely Remove Hardware (usually found in your taskbar) on the drive before shutting down. This will take the place of Quick Removal. See if the error is there next boot. If not, this is probably the culprit.

Rachael