Storage devices with flash memory -- whether you call them flash drives, usb drives, thumb drives or usb keys -- currently are the best way of transporting data between one computer and another. Small, with large capacities and true plug-and-play functionality, they are an essential piece of computer hardware.
As the devices have increased in popularity, literally dozens of manufacturers are making hundreds of different models. These range from drives as small as a dime, to devices that look like your favorite cartoon character.
The main difference in the flash drives is in the price and storage capacity. There also are some secondary considerations surrounding additional features.
The most important issue is how large a device you will need. In general, get the largest capacity you can possibly afford. You will never be disappointed in having too much storage space -- only in not having enough.
That said, if all you are gong to do is store a few Word files, you probably will not need a very big drive. A 128MB stick likely will do the trick. MP3, graphics and photo files are much bigger; if you are going to tote those around, you'll need a drive with 1 GB or more.
Be sure that the drive is designed for USB 2.0, but is backwards compatible. Many older computers have only USB 1.1 ports.
Another consideration is the physical size and shape of the device. The general thought seems to be that smaller is better. That also makes them easier to lose, though. Drives the size of a small pack of gum seem to be a good compromise.
The shape of the flash drive also needs to be considered. To distinguish themselves in market manufacturers offer a bewildering selection of shapes, sizes and colors. While most are rectangular, a few look like a lipstick, or cartoon characters, or toys. While a different design may help the manufacturer distinguish his products, consumers need to be sure that the drive actually will fit into the available USB ports on the computers they want to use.
This isn't an issue with the actual size of the USB port; those are standard. It's a matter of whether there is physical space for the case. At work, the ports on the front of a few computers have a hinged door, and an angled slot. This means that only the smallest of drives actually can be plugged in. There also may be an issue if the computer has several ports that are stacked right on top of one another. A large, or oddly shaped drive can prevent you from plugging in several devices at once.
Another design issue is with the cap. A loose cap can get lost, and then your USB connector can fill up with dirt,oils and lint. That could lead to device failure. Caps that attach with a cord, or devices with retractible ports are readily available.
If security is an issue, many of the manufacturers provide software that allow you to password protect your flash drive. In most of these, you can designate separate areas of your drive as "public" and "private." Others offer flash drives with biometric security features (they actually read your fingerprints).
Finally, don't get caught up in the manufacturer's hype. To sell their drives, manufacturers sell them as "fast" and "multimedia compatible."
They're all fast. (And if one is faster than another, it's undetectable by anyone other than the geekiest of humans) And they all can store photos, graphics and movies (assuming you have enough storage space). Anything that you can store on a computer, you can store on a flash drive.
In general, the best prices that you're going to get are online. Take a look at the Ebay listings here.
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