General USB FAQ
What is USB?
USB stands for Universal Serial Bus, which is a standardized connector for computer accessories and peripherals.
What is USB 2.0?
USB 1.0 was the original specification followed by USB 1.1, which was a bit faster. USB 2.0 is the newer and faster specification, 40 times faster than USB 1.1 and the current de-facto standard for most peripheral devices (cameras, scanners, hard drives, and flash drives).
What is a USB flash drive?
A USB flash drive is a portable device that allows you to store and retrieve all types of computer files, like a miniature hard drive except with no moving parts. USB drives are typically very small, yet they can hold much or more information than a CD or even a DVD.
How do I use a flash drive?
USB drives are very easy to use. Simply plug the drive into an available USB port and the drive becomes available for reading and writing, just drag and drop your files.
Are all USB flash drives created equal?
No. Like all media, USB drives can vary in quality and speed depending on the manufacturer. We subject our drives to intense quality control checks before delivery. If we wouldn’t use it, we won’t sell it.
How do I connect my USB flash drive?
Most computers have at least two USB ports, and today it is common for computers to include USB ports on the front of the tower for easy access.
Do flash drives work with any computer?
USB drives are compatible with most major operating systems including Windows, Macintosh, and Linux. Some older computers may not have a USB port, but most computers manufactured after 1998 support USB.
How much data can a USB flash drive hold?
It all depends on the capacity. Today, USB drive sizes range from 512MB up to 64GB. A 2GB USB drive can hold thousands of pictures, songs, and documents.
What are the advantages of using a flash drive instead of a CD-R or DVD-R?
USB drives offer greater compatibility than CD and DVD discs. They are also smaller, more portable, more durable, and offer more capacity. USB drives have no moving parts so they are silent and best of all they are rewritable and reusable; no special software is required!
What are the advantages of using a flash drive instead of an external hard drive?
While external hard drives have come down significantly in price over the last several years, there are several good reasons why USB drives are superior. First, they are smaller and can easily be carried in a pocket or purse rather than a briefcase. They do not require an AC power source, and can be used just about anywhere. Because they have no moving parts, they are not vulnerable to shock damage like a traditional hard drive. USB drives are also quieter because they do not need a bulky enclosure or a fan to operate.
Who are flash drives for?
USB drives are for anyone who wants fast and convenient access to their files. Everyone from business professionals and students to marketing agencies and medical professionals can benefit from the low cost and versatility of USB flash drives.
How long will a USB drive last?
Research has shown that USB drives can be written and erased over 100,000 times and store data for over 10 years without powering on.
What does 80X or 150X mean?
USB drives come in a variety of speeds, similar to CD and DVD discs. The speed rating of the drive indicates its read/write performance, higher numbers indicate better performance.
What are your payment terms?
Premium USB is happy to accept cash, company checks, purchase orders, money orders, or credit cards on some orders. Call for details.