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What’s The Most Popular Storage Capacity for Promotional USB Memory Sticks?

Wednesday, July 15th, 2009

Branded USB Memory sticks are becoming evermore popular for the transfer and storage of large amounts of data. This popularity is mainly due to their compact size, ease of use and the dramatic reduction in price over the past few years.

One of the key decisions to make when purchasing Branded USB Memory sticks in the storage capacity.

Before delving into which capacity to select a short technical overview as is useful to understand the measurement terminology used when defining memory capacity.

Electronic data is measured in ‘bytes’. Multiples of these are:

•      1 Kilobyte (KB) is equal to 1,024 bytes

•      1 Megabyte (MB) is equal to 1,024 Kilobytes (1,048,576 bytes)

•      1 Gigabyte (GB) is equal to 1,024 Megabytes (1,073,741,824 bytes)

Branded USB Memory sticks range from 32MB to 16GB. They double up in size from 32MB:

•      32MB (almost obsolete)
•      64MB
•      128MB
•      256MB
•      512MB
•      1GB
•      2GB
•      4GB
•      8GB
•      16GB

You need to be aware that all Promotional USB Memory sticks need a small amount of capacity to allow it them work. As a general rule of thumb around 5% of the storage capacity will be used by the Memory Stick to manage how it stores the data on the stick.

So, how much data can each stick hold? The amount of data that can be stored depends on the type of the data, such as MP3 audio files, digital photos, word files etc. and the quality for example the resolution of photos.  As a benchmark 512MB memory stick would typically store about 250 photos.

When deciding what capacity to select for your Branded USB Memory sticks you need to consider the following.

• What is the objective of your Promotional USB Memory stick campaign. If it is to provide specific data or information that is pre-loaded, then the size should match the amount of data to be loaded. If the requirement is to allow the user to use the Memory stick as a promotional keepsake, then there needs to be sufficient headroom over and above any data that you may wish to load.

• What budget do you have? The higher the capacity the higher the price. However, the price differential between a 64MB and 1GB is no longer that great.

• The market for flash memory is volatile and is driven by supply and demand. Therefore, it is worth checking if there are any special offers on different USB Memory capacity. For example it has been know for 512MB to be cheaper than 256MB.

• If the Branded USB Memory sticks are gifts for prospects or existing key clients, you need to consider the perceived value of the item you are giving. So if budget is limited it may be prudent to buy less of higher capacity Branded USB Memory sticks.

Based on the above criteria, currently the most popular capacity for Branded USB Memory sticks is 1GB, but watch this space!

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What’s The Most Popular Storage Capacity for Promotional USB Memory Sticks?

Live USBs vs. Live CDs

Wednesday, July 8th, 2009

Live USBs are a USB flash drive that contains a full operating system that can be booted.  These drives are related to live CDs.  They have an advantage over live CDs in the way that they are able to save settings and permanently install software back to the device itself.  They can also be used in imbedded systems for system administration, data recovery, or system testing.  This is done without having to commit to permanent installation on the hard drive.  Live USBs are more commonly used with Linux systems.

Live USBs have many advantages and limitations when compared to the live CD.  Unlike live CDs the data contained can be changed and stored.  At the same time, people are able to carry their favorite operating system with them.  There is enhanced privacy with live USBs is due to the compact size and ability to store it in smaller places or carry it with you.  Live USBs usually start faster, though this is not true if a computer is lacking USB 2.0 support.  Older computers may not have BIOS that supports USB booting.  In this case, an initial bootable CD may be needed.  Due to the writing cycles of the live USB, the life of the flash drive is reduced.  This is not a worry with live CDs.

With the know-how, you can find programs that will help you to create custom USBs.  You can search the internet to find these programs that will support Windows or Linux operating systems.  In order to do this, you will need a broadband internet connection.  Some people find that creating their own custom USB suits them better.  It takes up very little space on the USB drive as well.  This allows you to personalize your live USB to your business and personal needs.

Many programs can create a live USB that is compatible with Windows and Linux.  The install for programs are completely non-destructive.  Due to this, there is no need to deal with formatting or partitioning your custom USB key.  Various programs also support automatic downloads through Fedora and Sugar on a Stick.  Storage creation is persistent, so you can save files and make modifications that will remain and persist after you reboot your system.  You are also protected when it comes to making sure that you have downloaded the correct elements.

Many, many sites are available on the internet which allows you to buy live or custom USBs.  There is also an endless amount of support on these sites to answer your questions as to what you may need, or step by step instructions to create your own.  The options that you have with live USBs are extremely vast.

There are many advantages to a live USB.  It can make life much more convenient for those who travel as well as using multiple computers. There is no more worrying about whether you are going to have the file support and programs that you need when you are traveling around.  It is a wise investment.

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Live USBs vs. Live CDs

How USB Ports Work

Wednesday, July 8th, 2009

The USB is a method of connecting peripheral devices to a computer so that they can be used easily.  This method is far superior to older methods, as the ease of connection is so much better with the USB port.  The speed at which data can be transferred has been improved greatly as well.  The USB allows for a device to be identified as soon as it is plugged in.  With other methods, you had to attach a device while the computer was off.  USB ports have become one of the most common methods for connecting peripheral devices.

To realize how convenient the USB port is, we need to go back to the old ways.  Printers were connected to printer ports, and there was usually only one of these.  This is also the same spot that you would need to plug your Zip drive into, or any gadget that required high-speed.  Modems and many other devices plugged into the serial port.  If you were lucky, you had two.  If you only had one, chances are you needed it for the modem.  Devices needing faster speed came with their own card.  These had to go into a card slot inside the computer case.  The number of card slots was limited, so you had to pick and choose your devices wisely.  We won’t even talk about having to install the software for the cards.  The USB came in to help stop these headaches and seemingly grueling activities.   You can now connect up to approximately 127 devices to your computer with one simple, standardized method, making customised USB devices extremely popular.

When you plug a customised USB device into a USB port, the computer operating system searches for the device in its drivers.  If the driver is not found, the appropriate one must be installed.  The computer will be able to recognize the device the next time that it is hooked to the computer.  When the device is recognized and loaded to the correct driver, data is transferred between the computer and the devices at a very high rate of speed.  Files can be transferred to and from hard drives, USB flash drives and other storage devices.

USB has been a great time and sanity saver for any computer user.  People seem to be more on the go these days, and the quicker ways of the USB make it possible to travel, and to be a lot more mobile with your operating systems, programs and information.

Not only can you run many more devices with USB ports, you save a lot of space on your computer as well.  There is also not as much wear and tear on your hard drive. Not everything has to be stored and formatted like the old days, and customised USB devices are adding an extra dimension of fun to data storage with numerous fantastic designs available.

As you sit and use your separate keyboard, scanner, printer and more with your portable laptop, you have your USB set up to thank.   The world of computers is much more convenient due to the production and function of the USB port.

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How USB Ports Work

Essential USB Drive Antivirus

Wednesday, July 8th, 2009

In today’s day and age, with the growing number of viruses, people really need to not only protect their computers, but their USB drives as well.  If you are downloading to your customised USB flash drive, there is a chance that you could inadvertently transfer a virus.

Because customised USB flash drives are so popular, they are a great target for attackers to spread infections.  Flash drives are frequently used to move data between multiple systems. Due to this, viruses can be spread quickly.  Viruses can become so bad that many work places have banned the use of flash drives.  Some places of employment have placed silent applications that can detect when a flash drive is in use. Although this helps, by the time someone is notified, a virus could already be spread. Although this can be very problematic, viruses can’t get everyone trying to use a customised USB flash drive.

Many people think that because their customised USB flash drive is encrypted that they are safe.  Encryption only protects against loss or theft.  Digital photo kiosks are often not thought of as a threat, but these are one of the main distribution points for infections.  Think about it, you could go to a popular store, infect the photo kiosk, and sit back as the virus spreads to thousands of people walking in with their memory cards.  Many people will save pictures on a flash drive as well and this may be after they have been to a kiosk.

There are many places on the internet that provide USB antivirus programs.  Most of these programs provide great protection against programs trying to attack through your USB drive.  When any USB device is inserted into your computer, the antivirus program will automatically scan.  It will then block and delete USB viruses, Trojans and malicious code.  These programs can help to permanently protect your computer against USB worms.  These programs will not slow down your computer, and are compatible with other virus programs.

There are other precautions you can take to ensure protection against viruses.  Make sure to use security features such as, passwords and encryption.  It is wise to keep personal and business USB drives separate.  If using security and virus software, make sure that it is up to date.  Do not plug an unknown USB drive into your computer.

Nothing will protect you 100% from USB viruses, but it is worthwhile to educate yourself on all of the software and precautions you can use to help protect yourself and others.  Keep up to date on the software you use, and try to understand any current viruses and how they could affect you.

Spreading viruses through USB drives can be a very large problem.  It is a very easy way for people who are up to no good to do a lot of damage, and in a very short amount of time.  It takes the work out of spreading viruses through traditional means. So we need to become more aware of our USB drives and devices.  We are in a world of viruses that are not limited to our computers.

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Essential USB Drive Antivirus

USB Convenience

Wednesday, July 8th, 2009

Many people have caught on to the convenience of a customised USB flash drive.  These handy little gadgets are made up of NAND-type flash memory with a USB interface.  They are very easy to use, and hold much more information than a traditional floppy disk.  Storage will usually range from 64MB-128GB.  They are very small, averaging one ounce in weight.  They are easy to carry in your pocket, bag or on your keychain.  These drives are great due to the fact that they are removable and rewritable.

The advantages of a customised USB flash drive over traditional storage devices are many.  They are obviously far more compact, which makes it easier to carry them in a safe manner.  They operate faster than the other traditional storage devices, hold more data, and are more reliable due to the fact that they have fewer moving parts.  The durability factor of the USB flash is amazing compared to traditional saving devices as well.  The flash drive is made up of a small circuit board that is protected inside of a case.  These cases are plastic, metal, or rubberized.  The USB connector is able to retract for protection or comes with a removable cap.   Due to these factors, the USB flash drive can be carried with no additional protection.  Carry with confidence!

It is very common now to see computers sold without a floppy disk option.  USB ports occur on the current mainstream laptop and PC.  They typically use USB mass storage which is supported by all modern operating systems.  There is a lot more storage ability in a lot less space than previous traditional methods.

Most USB flash drives use a standard A USB connection.  This allows the ability to plug into just about any personal computer or laptop.  You can be anywhere and retrieve the information that you need.  The nature of the flash drive as far as storage is an advantage when being used on multiple computers.  The applications stored on a flash drive, are meant to run on any computer without requiring installation.  Although most applications can be used this way, many of the programs will store data and configure information on the hard drive and registry of the computer being used.

The USB flash drive has brought a lot of potential to the computer world.  You now can have them custom made to fit your needs as far as storage capability.  You can also have them personalized with logos, designs and colors to fit your unique style and personality.  If you have many things to save that are important to you, a customised USB flash drive is the way to go.  You can be confident that your information will remain safe within the durable confines of the flash drive.

Flash drives can be found in any electronics area found in your local stores.  If you are looking for a customized drive, online companies are the way to go.  You can receive free price quotes as you design and personalize your flash drive.

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USB Convenience

USB Device Not Recognised

Wednesday, July 8th, 2009

As increasing numbers of people are using customised USB devices, and these can be extremely practical.  Unfortunately, on the odd occasion, problems can arise.

There are many reasons why you may get a message stating that your customised USB device is not recognised.  One very large reason for this is that your device may not be registered in your Device Manager.  This is one of the most common problems for a device not being recognized.  Another very common problem is a loose connection.  If the connection is loose, it is hard for the signals to be read, which in turn will give you a message that your USB device can’t be recognized.

Sometimes, you will get an error that your customised USB device is not recognised after a period of hibernation.  This happens when you have more than one connector such as, a USB and PS2.  This is caused when devices are reset too soon once repowered, causing them to use the wrong connector.

If this is a recurring problem, you may have to update and repair your drivers.  This is especially true with Windows.  Steps to help you fix the problem are as follows:   Try a different USB cable, check your BIOS to make sure you have it set to support the correct USB version, try not using a hub if one is currently in use. Unplug the customised USB device and wait awhile, disable power management on USB hubs under the USB controller in the Device Manager and lastly, if nothing else works, update your system device drivers.

Specific devices have specific ways for showing that they are not detected.  If the device is an iPod and your drivers are out of date, the following things may occur:  iPod is not recognized in the computer, does not appear in iTunes, can’t be restored in iTunes, “Do Not Disconnect” is not shown on display when IPod is connected to the computer or an exclamation point appears next to the iPod’s entry in Device Manager.

Usually updating or reinstalling your drivers will fix most problems.  Before doing this, to save yourself trouble, make sure to try the basics that are listed above.  There are many support forums and sites online that can help you figure out why your devices are not recognized.  You can specifically go to the website of the operating system that you use.  They can help you troubleshoot these problems as well.  For each scenario, they will walk you step-by-step through the process. Phone support is always an option if you need more explanations that are specific to your problems.

Many sites will scan your computer to let you know if you need to update or repair drivers.  It is quick and free.  You can do this to save time before you automatically complete these actions.  This will let you know if it is that or something else is wrong.

If this does happen, don’t get discouraged.  It is very common.  Although it may take a little time, it is something that can be fixed.  It is a process of elimination or trial and error.  You will get through it!

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USB Device Not Recognised

Laptop Computers and USB

Wednesday, July 8th, 2009

One thing many people often wonder when buying a laptop is whether it comes with USB ports, and it is good to know that these ports have become pretty standard on most modern laptop computers.  Now are the days that the laptop is becoming even more like a regular desktop computer.  When buying a laptop, make sure to confirm whether your USB port is 1.0 or 2.0.  This will determine your peak throughput.

Having a USB port on a laptop holds many advantages for its users.  It allows for many types of devices to be hooked up without the need for a different port or connector.  As well as customised USB devices, USB port uses on laptops include things such as: external storage, scanner, MP3 player, network adaptor and digital camera.  These are just the more common uses for a USB port on a laptop computer!  There are many, many less common uses as well.

Many people decide to have more than one USB port installed on their laptop.  When thinking about it, most ports are only able to support one or two different items for your computer.  If you have a few more USB ports, you can run just about anything that you are going to need, without the hassle of having ports that are only able to handle one or two different devices.  Many people gain multiple USB ports by connecting a USB hub with up to seven USB ports.  As customised USB devices grow in popularity, ports are used more than ever.

As most computer savvy people know, the USB port is very universal these days, due to the fact that most peripherals now have USB connectors.  If a device does not have a USB connector, you can buy an adaptor to convert your connectors to be compatible.

Do not be afraid of buying a laptop due to the fact that it is small, giving many the misconception that it can not handle many applications and devices.  Today this is not true!  With the USB abilities out there, the amounts of devices you can use with a laptop are virtually endless!  Customised USB applications can be used with no trouble on a suitably equipped laptop.

If you are unsure of how to use your USB capabilities and devices with your laptop, there are many places to gain knowledge online.  There are many technical sites dedicated to laptops and USB ports, as well as customised USB in general.  You can join forums and seek support and help that way as well.

The laptop that is equipped with USB compatible devices can be convenient for everyone.  The people that are being targeted the most are business people, as laptops are so practical for commuters.  You can do just about anything on your computer while you are on train, in a taxi, or just on the go.  The regular use of USB with laptops has opened up a whole new world of convenience and ease for people who need their computers in everyday life to get their job done.  There are few limitations with modern laptops, go ahead and choose the right one for you with no worries!

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Laptop Computers and USB

The Twister: The Most Popular Promotional Branded USB Flash Drive

Tuesday, July 7th, 2009

The Twister USB flash drive is, by a long stretch, the most innovative design that has been introduced into the USB flash drive marketplace since its inception. It has fused the functionality and cost-effectiveness of the latex covered plastic circuit board and chip housing with the robustness of the metal body that has been introduced through the metal Twister USB flash drive. This has helped in maintaining the quality standards required of the USB flash drives and yet keeps the sleek design and the versatility of the USB gadget intact.

USB2U Branded Twister USB

The defining features that help to distinguish the Twister USB flash drive from the other contemporary USB flash drives are listed below.

1. This USB flash drive has a twisting metal casing that safeguards the actual USB connector from impacts and falls in any environment that the USB flash drive is used in. The absence of a cap eliminates the possibility misplacing the cap of the USB flash drive and as a result could result in damage to the USB.

2. The tough metal casing will ensure that your data is protected from external sources. This advantage, along with high data retention capacity of the Twister makes it very popular with the people who are more inclined to use USB flash drives for portable data storage.

3. The toughness of the Twister USB flash drive is not the only party trick for this leader of innovative USB flash drives. The visual appearance of the Twister” is also a huge reason why USB users are attracted to this particular USB flash drive so much. The elegant rubberized-feel body of the Twister innovative twisting metal case that could be swung aside to reveal the actual USB flash drive captivates users.

4. The Twister with its ‘expensive’ looks and sturdy structuring is an asset to behold for corporate customers. They very often use this product as printed, branded, promotional gifts to enhance their brand image and an provide an increase in brand retention among their existing consumer base. There is also an option to utilize laser engraving to embed a company logo on the external casing. This double advantage allows companies to increase chances of converting their prospective clients through a marketing campaign that has been strengthened to double over the conventional USB flash drives.

Therefore, you can ascertain for yourself the superlative advantage that the Twister USB flash drive has on offer. If, in the past, you have been wary of the dangers to your chosen, stylish USB flash drive due to rough handling, you can put them to rest by using the Twister. It has taken the functional qualities of a standard USB flash drive and the style of a well-designed fashion accessory to produce one of the most innovative technological marvels in the promotional USB flash drive industry in recent times.

USB2U Branded Twister USB

Check out the packaging options for the Twister: Click here

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The Twister: The Most Popular Promotional Branded USB Flash Drive
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