USB2U
Get A Quote

Posts Tagged ‘Promotional USB Memory sticks’

Newer Entries »

Can you delete files from pre-loaded Promotional USB Memory sticks?

Wednesday, July 8th, 2009

Picture the scenario. You have just taken receipt of your bright new USB Branded Memory sticks for an event that is due to commence in 2 days. You load the first of the USB Memory Sticks into your PC and to your horror you discover that the data has been loaded incorrectly or there is an error with the original information provided.  Apart from putting a wet towel over you head what options do you have? He’s a list of things that may help:

USB Dataload

  1. Try to minimise the risk of this happening in the first place. Ensure your Custom USB supplier provides you with screen grabs of the data for sign off. Ideally ask for a pre-production sample of your Branded USB Memory sticks with the data preload. This way there little risk of any issues in the future.
  2. If the data is not protected or has an autorun. Then there are some easy solutions:

    • Delete the data from the memory sticks and re-load. Doing these individually is a painful and slow process and is not recommended for batches of over 100 units, unless you have an army of people to throw at this. This process is also prone to quality issues.

    • There are several data duplication companies in the UK that can take the Branded Memory sticks and format and reload the data relatively easily and quickly.  They can process up to 3000 memory sticks within a few hours. Job done.
  3. The nightmare scenario! If the memory sticks are data-protected or have an autorun it becomes far more complex. No surprise, as by the very nature the Promotional USB Memory Sticks are engineered to stop end users doing exactly what you want to do, namely delete and change the data. The software required to do this will be dependant on the controller that the Branded Memory Stick has been loaded with. The controller is the mini operating system that all USB Memory sticks have. Again there are several options to resolve this.

    • Return back to the manufacturer. They have the technology to format and reload the data, but the downside is that it will take time to return to the Far East, get them reloaded and shipped back. You would need to allow up to 2 weeks for this.

    • Some USB Providers will have the software to allow the data to be deleted in the UK. If not, ask them to try to obtain from the manufacturer. This would allow them to delete the data. Then the next challenge would be reloading the data. The easiest thing to do would be to load the new data with no protection or an autorun. However, if this is a pre-requisite then there are a few UK Data Duplication companies that have the capabilities of loading the data with copy protection and autorun. Again this will be dependant on the controller that is on the Branded USB Memory Drive.

The moral of this story is to ensure that you minimise the risk of this happening, by having a pre-production sample produced. Otherwise you will be entering a very stressful process and that towel will continue to get wetter!

  • Share/Bookmark
Can you delete files from pre-loaded Promotional USB Memory sticks?

Tags: , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,
Posted in Branded USB, Custom USB, Promotional USB | No Comments »

USB Hubs and promotional pen drives

Wednesday, July 8th, 2009

USB ports have a number of applications, allowing connection of USB sticks and promotional pen drives.  However, many people choose to use hubs.  Hubs are a device that allows for many other devices to be connected to a single USB port.  The advantage of this is that hubs are often built into computer equipment.  This allows for each device to work on one internal USB as opposed to every port having independent USB hardware.

Hubs come in a variety of forms.  Along with more regular hubs are hubs that are known as inverse or shared and these allow several PCs to access a single peripheral.  Only one PC can access a peripheral at any one time, but many computers can be hooked up, using all recognized devices off and on.

If a USB network has many hubs, it requires the hubs to be connected to each other.  A hub network can only extend a USB network up to five times.  Bus-powered hubs are not allowed to be connected with each other in a series; these specific hubs draw all of their power from the computer’s interface.  Many devices use more power than this type of hub can provide.

When creating hubs, you may end up blocking other ports.  Ports are closely spaced, of course plugging in certain devices may block a port rendering it unusable.

Due to hubs being external, you can now get them in novelty shapes to make your computer look more fashionable.  There are designs from time traveling spaceships to nuclear missile launch consoles to name just two.  We need to have these hubs for all our gadgets, but we also want to be looking good while using them.  Gadgets such as USB devices and promotional pen drives cater for our needs for novelty as well as practicality.

To allow for high-speed devices to work in their fastest mode, all hubs between the computer and devices must be high speed.  Devices should fall back to high speed once plugged into a full-speed hub. It is best to use USB 2.0 with high-speed devices.  Although this is true, USB 2.0 also incorporates and surpasses USB 1.1.  This means that full-speed and low speed devices are compliant, but not all 2.0 hubs operate at high-speed.

USB hubs use one or more integrated controllers.  They usually support a four port hub system.  You can get hub controllers that support 7 ports.  Some hub controllers can convert PS/2 to USB for your mouse and keyboard.

A self-powered USB hub is suggested for your smaller devices such as mice and keyboards.  When getting into your larger devices such as, external drives, printers and scanners, AC powered hubs are said to be a better choice.  Some AC powered hubs come with an adapter while others don’t.  Make sure to get the hub that best suits your needs.

If you have multiple devices that you will be using with your computer, hubs are probably the way to go.  They make your ports conveniently accessible.  They are inexpensive and especially handy with laptops where you may need more ports in order to use more devices.  You really can’t go wrong using a hub to support your devices.  You are more likely to have what you need right at your finger tips.  No matter whether you are using your promotional pen drives, a USB keyboard or mouse, make sure you have the correct hub.

  • Share/Bookmark
USB Hubs and promotional pen drives

Tags: , , , , , , , , , , , , ,
Posted in Promotional USB | No Comments »

What to Look For in A Flash Drive

Wednesday, July 8th, 2009

To get the best value on a flash drive, there are things that you should look for while you are selecting.   You need to decide how much room you need.  If you only need a small amount of space (1-16 GB), you do not want to spend the money for a flash drive with 32-64 GB.  If you do not need this much, you will be paying a lot more for something that you will not use.

You will want to think about the type of information that you will be dealing with.  If the information that you are going to be storing is sensitive in nature, you will want to look for password and encryption ability. These securities can be anywhere from military grade on down.  If you only need a little protection, some smaller drives allow you to create a hidden, secure partition.  This is usually plenty for everyday use.

Decide if you need a more protective case.  How are your promotional flash drives going to travel most of the time?  If you tend to be a person who is rough, you may want a driver with a cap as opposed to a retractable.  Also pick a more sturdy material such as metal instead of plastic.  A model that is more robust will take a beating a lot better.

If you do not plan on running applications, don’t spend the money on U3 technology.  Some people find this technology annoying or frustrating.  It also requires administrator access most of the time.  You can keep it simple and stay with a regular drive, as this will keep things simple.  You don’t want to mess with something you don’t need.  Who wants to be bothered?

You should only worry about what you are going to use.  Don’t worry about a bunch of extra actions.  At the same time, you do not want to come out with a drive that doesn’t have what you need.  Check consumer reports to help you find what you need.  You can also get the scoop on the best drivers based on function and price.

When looking at good and bad reviews, keep in mind that many of the reviews are based on the fact that people just didn’t get what they wanted.  They have a drive with too much or too little.  You do want to focus on reliability and durability when looking at reviews.  Does the driver do what it is intended to do?  In the long run, this will save you a lot of time and hassle trying to fix your driver.

Take your time picking out promotional flash drives.  Get what is best for you based on function and price.  If you take care in picking out your product, you will be a lot happier with its function and performance.  Checking reviews is a great way to help you decide if what you are looking for is going to be dependable.  This is especially important if you will be saving and transferring a lot of business related data on promotional flash drives.

  • Share/Bookmark
What to Look For in A Flash Drive

Tags: , , , , , , ,
Posted in Promotional USB | No Comments »

The potential for unusual flash drives

Wednesday, July 8th, 2009

There is a world out there beyond the typical everyday flash drive.  This world is comprised of unique and personal ways of showing and sporting your promotional flash drives.  These are sure to grab anyone’s attention!

Flash drives now come in jewellery for the ladies.  You can wear them as a stylish necklace or a dazzling bracelet.  Not only are you carrying the information you need on you, you are doing it in style!  These are so realistic looking that no one will even know they are promotional flash drives until you take it off and plug it into your computer.  That is when people will begin to ask you the questions out of sheer curiosity.

We have all heard or even used the popular term ‘thumb drive’.  Now that can be a literal statement!  You can buy a very realistic looking thumb that has a retractable flash drive!  People will wonder what you are doing with that extra thumb!  Putting that aside, imagine the looks when it is sticking out of your computer!

Along with these very intriguing drives, you can get sports balls, animals, iPods, cars, and just about anything you can imagine.  If you are going to have something on you, it might as well be unique, trendy and well, you!  Trendy really can meet technology with these whimsical designs.

There are sites that will design promotional flash drives for you.  There is anything from crosses, wristbands with personalized sayings, gold bars, cameras, and many, many more.  Go for it and be creative!  The aspect of the wristbands and jewelry are an advantage because they are actually attached to your body.  You will be much less likely to lose them.

If you are currently in sales, think about the fact that this could be a sales tactic and advertising tool.  You can get trendy promotional flash drives that are representative of what you are selling, or your business services.  Maybe you just want something to draw attention as a conversation starter. It could be for personal reasons to give yourself a smile during the day while you are working.

Many people have become huge fans of these unique flash drives!  Let your personality and taste shine as you work and download.  Start a collection!  There are so many out there that there is something for everyone.

If you can’t wait to find a flash drive that is unique to your taste, just type in ‘unique flash drives’ into your favorite search engine and you will be awe-stricken at the creativity that has been associated with these small pieces of technology.

Get rid of that plain flash drive!  Carry your info in style with an infinite number of unique flash drive shapes, sizes, themes, logos and colors.  Get the attention of others and maybe even give yourself a smile or two.  If nothing else, they would make great gifts for people of all ages!  You can purchase them as a gift of caring or a hilarious gag!  Go for it!

  • Share/Bookmark
The potential for unusual flash drives

Tags: , , , , , , , , , ,
Posted in Promotional USB | No Comments »

Choosing the Right Supplier For Your Branded USB Memory Sticks

Thursday, July 2nd, 2009

There are currently a large number of suppliers providing Branded and Promotional USB Memory Sticks in the U.K. This makes the marketplace fiercely competitive and as a result the end user would naturally benefit from lower prices. In turn, this also puts a lot of pressure on suppliers to reduce their costs. Some suppliers take this too far so it is important to consider factors other than price when choosing your USB Memory Stick supplier. There are four very important considerations to be take into account:

1. Speed of Service
2. Quality of USB Memory Sticks
3. Financial Stability of Company Supplying Flash Drives
4. Reputation.

Speed of service will largely depend on the individual company’s business model. Many companies claim to have fast turnaround times, but when called to task on orders to supply large amounts of branded USB Memory Sticks, they fall short on initial promises and the turnaround times increase by 2 or 3 times. Other companies who have more control over their supply chain will live up to their promises and these are naturally the companies you’ll want to choose.

Quality control is vital for products that will end up representing your company. It is important to find a supplier that its aware of this and will not cut corners or send you defunct goods. For instance, some USB Flash Drive suppliers cut costs by using refurbished chipsets. This is generally less reliable than brand new chipsets. Initially it may save you money, but do you want the final product you’ve given to a client to fail? This creates a poor impression of your company, and once they have discarded the USB Stick, they will no longer be carrying your companies name around with them.

Financial Stability. As with any company you may be considering entering into a financial relationship with, it is always good practice to run a credit check to make sure the company is not going to go under within a month of taking an order to supply you with your goods. In the event that it does, you are unlikely to recover any of your money back. As mentioned earlier, this is a very competitive industry and with a large amount of people involved in the industry, insolvency is not that uncommon. Should your supplier face bankruptcy, not only will you lose the money you paid them, you will also miss your deadline.

Reputation speaks volumes. If a company has delivered similar sized orders of branded USB Memory Sticks within a specified time frame on several occasions, they can probably do it again and again. Don’t be afraid to ask for references and testimonials from their existing customer base. If they have provided excellent service levels, they will not be embarrassed to share their successes.

  • Share/Bookmark
Choosing the Right Supplier For Your Branded USB Memory Sticks

Tags: , , , , , , ,
Posted in Custom USB | No Comments »

Why Choose A Customised USB Flash Drive?

Friday, June 19th, 2009

With the ever-increasing demand for branded promotional products, the possibility of finding something unique is be coming frustratingly slim. Due to the ongoing worldwide financial crisis, that has a grip on every level of the supply process, the suppliers have been forced to revisit their pricing. As a result of this, the creation of an entirely unique, bespoke, Branded USB Flash drive has become an affordable method of creating some individuality.

The only restriction that would hamper you on the design of your own USB would be the limitations to your own imagination. The products are manufactured from PVC rubber and can be made up of a number of colours in any shape or form you choose. The beauty of this type of creation is that the product is colourful, 3-dimensional and resilient. No longer will the branding on your flash drives suffer the effects of time and excessive use as the branding is embedded in the product.

Custom USB Flash Drive
Custom USB Flash Drive
Custom USB Flash Drive

For more, please click here.

By designing and producing a bespoke product, you may think that this would impact on the memory capacities that are available. This is not the case. A bespoke product can house any size memory from 64Mb all they way though to a massive 32Gb. All of the same accessories i.e. keyrings and lanyards can be used with your bespoke product should you choose to incorporate an attachment loop onto you product. The packaging options for your Bespoke USB flash drive can also be customised to house your product.

Range of items produced is staggering. Companies have produced USB Branded Memory sticks in the shape of Rugby Balls, People, Animals, Plants, Cars Airplanes and even USB shaped as food.

Whether you are looking for a Branded USB flash drive for the launch of a new product, a promotional giveaway at a trade show or a gift to boost the exposure of your already established product or company, a bespoke customized USB is the answer you have been looking for.

To take a full glimpse of our Custom USB Flash Drives showcase, please click here.

  • Share/Bookmark
Why Choose A Customised USB Flash Drive?

Tags: , , , , ,
Posted in Promotional USB | No Comments »

How Branded USB Memory Sticks Can Help You Beat The Economic Slowdown

Wednesday, June 17th, 2009

With the slowdown in the economy there is increasing competition chasing fewer customers. There has never been a more important time to focus marketing spend on ways of making a real difference to the bottom line. The ideal scenario is to find a way to look at something that couples as a loyalty reward for valued customers and an incentive targeted at potential customers.

The simple answer is Branded USB Memory sticks! They can carry your company branding, contact details and promotional information. The beauty of this gift is that the recipient would value it, as it is a perceived high value item. There is a high propensity for them to view the information and thereafter use the USB memory stick for their own purposes. So your brand and contact details are close to hand.

Data storage now ranges from 64Mb to 16Gb, so plenty of scope for a vast amount of data to be loaded and plenty of spare storage for the user.

The price of Promotional USB Memory sticks has fallen dramatically over the past few years and you will be surprised just how little they cost.

There are now so many different styles of USB drives available. They range from plastic, metal, leather, wood, recycled material and come in all shapes and sizes. The most popular being the models that do not have a cap such as the USB Twister Memory Stick.
If there is nothing that hits the mark then why not design your own model. Technology now exists to make a Customised USB Memory Stick in any shape or size. These range from USB food, all sorts of USB vehicles, USB people to the very bizarre like USB shaped like bacon and USBs shaped as Tampons ….don’t ask!

All USB Promotional Memory Sticks can be preloaded with your company presentation and other essential business information so there is a very good chance that the recipients are going to take the time to review all the material.

There are a range of printing options to consider, including spot printing, full colour printing, engraving and embossing.

In short, Branded USB Memory sticks are the ideal vehicle to deliver value to your existing customers and to help secure new business in these very challenging times.

  • Share/Bookmark
How Branded USB Memory Sticks Can Help You Beat The Economic Slowdown

Tags: , , , , ,
Posted in Promotional USB | No Comments »

The Hidden Dangers Of Autorun In Promotional USB Memory Sticks

Tuesday, June 16th, 2009

To autorun or not to autorun that is the question! Many clients are faced with the dilemma of whether they should add an autorun facility to their promotional USB Promotional Memory Sticks.

An autorun facility allows users to insert a USB Branded Memory Stick and for the computer to automatically run a programme e.g. a movie file.

The advantages of this facility is that it ensures the user is presented with the information the client wants them to see, without having to find the information themselves. This makes is a very intuitive process and ensures the information on the USB Memory Stick is delivered. However there are some hidden pitfalls:

•    Nuisance factor. If one of the objectives is to ensure that the USB Promotional Memory Stick is a keepsake that the end user will access on a regular basis then its worth bearing in mind that every time the user wants to access or save a document they will have to run through the dataload programme. Fine for the first few times, but thereafter they may find this an irritation and relegate the memory stick deep into a draw!

•    Autoruns will not work on Win 98 or 2000 operating systems – beware there are still many users out there with these systems. You will also need to ensure that the appropriate code is written into any autorun for it to work on Mac operating systems.

•    Some corporate firewalls restrict autoruns, so the danger is that the end user will never see the data.

There is a middle way, why not consider loading the data onto the USB Branded Memory Stick with an icon labelled ‘Click Here To Start’ and allow the user to access the data when they want.  This data can be protected so it would not be deleted, but overcomes may of the issues detailed above.

  • Share/Bookmark
The Hidden Dangers Of Autorun In Promotional USB Memory Sticks

Tags: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,
Posted in Uncategorized | No Comments »

Newer Entries »
Share/Bookmark Subscribe