(Problem Somewhat Solved) Missing files on newly-bought USB flash drive.

I just bought a USB flash drive the other day. I formatted it, but didn't use it until two days later. As I was copying my PortableApps folder into the root of the drive, I noticed that the copy on the usb is smaller than the original folder (51 MB to 23 MB). But I just thought that the program needed updating, and didn't really take it seriously. Then I started moving (take note) some of my personal files into the drive, then somebody had to use the pc so i let her use it. I was carried away while browsing when she was finally done and when I returned to the task, I discovered that the entire contents of the folder that contained my personal files are empty!!!

I ran chkdsk and it reported this (Owner is my personal files folder):

Unrecoverable error in folder \Owner.
Convert folder to file (Y/N)? N

At the end of the check, it asked me if I wanted to convert lost chains into files. I said no.

I already picked no to that question.

So what do I do with it, how am I able to recover my files?

The USB brand is a Transcend JetFlash V30 2GB with a serial number of TS2GJFV30.

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Find some data recovery software and see if it works.
Here's a link to one:
http://www.recovermyfiles.com/#

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Are there any free alternatives?

The next days will probably decrease the chances of me recovering extra files, so I'm technically not asking for help anymore.

If you wanna leave some tips for me and the next unfortunate user or recommend file recovery software, then please post it.

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There's a free download link there?

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Wastes about five false-hope-filled minutes of my time. I don't have a credit card or something that enables me to buy stuff from the web. I used Recover files to do the work. And I'm so returning that USB Drive.

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Oh right, sorry about that
Well there are free ones out there, I've used some with good results, but I can't remember which ones exactly.

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I remember using an undelete tool I downloaded from the pc world website. I have to dig out my list of software they've included in the magazines (I wrote down pc world codes on every interesting software seen in the magazine so i know what i might want to try out when i visit their web pages).

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If I can recall, the computer can restore itself to a specific point and undo something that may of happened to the computer. I'm pretty sure it also restores files as well. Problem is that anything you did past the date you restored it to is lost.

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Thanks for your help guys. I really appreciate all your efforts.

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