Glossary
Some of the technical stuff explained
Artwork:
This needs to be provided so the USB Memory Stick can carry your logo and/or marketing message. There are many different file types in which artwork can be saved as. The preferred formats for the printers or factory because they provide the sharpest print are ai (adobe illustrator) or eps (photoshop) and, ideally, these should be in a vectorised format. For more information on how to prepar artwork for branded USB sticks, see our Artwork Guidelines.
Data Encryption:
This is software which is preloaded to your Branded Memory Stick. It allows data on the stick to be fully encrypted (scrambled). This means that if you lose the Memory Stick it would be very difficult for anyone to access the data held on it without the appropriate password. Learn more about encrypted usb sticks.
Data Load:
If you have files or data that you want to provide the user with then this data can be loaded during the manufacturing process. The data can be supplied in any format with the most common data formats being MPEG’s, PDF’s and Powerpoint Presentations. Any loaded data can also be protected so that the user cannot delete it. For more information, please see our Data Load page.
Drive Letter:
This is the term used to label a drive letter on a USB memory stick. For example rather than having the generic ‘removable drive’ title, you could add a company name or short message. This process is sometimes known as ‘tagging.’
Drive Partition:
This creates two virtual “drives”. It can only be done at the point of manufacture. One drive partition can hold data that cannot be deleted (protected) and the other can be for saving and storing data. For more information, please see our Data Load page.
Embossing:
Sometimes knows as “stamping” this technique adds a logo onto Leather USB Flash Drives. For more information, please refer to our guide to Branding Options.
Engraving:
This is the process of etching a logo onto either metal or wooden USB flash drives. The results can be fantastic. Engraving is very durable and is a very popular option for branding on wooden USB sticks and metal promotional USB sticks. Please refer to our Branding Options: Click here.
Full Colour Print:
A process that allows full photo quality print rather than simple “spot colour” print. Not available on all models of USB memory stick or from all suppliers but if done correctly the results can be stunning. Please refer to our Branding Options.
Silk Screen Printing:
Sometimes knows as “stamping” this technique adds a logo onto Leather USB Flash Drives. For more information, please refer to our guide to Branding Options.
Carabiner Keyrings:
Also known as snap link, snap hook, D ring or ‘biner”. These function like a climber’s carabiner. They are great for attaching onto bags or laptop cases. Unlike most small key rings for USB sticks they are also big enough to carry a brand or logo. For more information see our USB Accessories.
Lanyard:
A cord that is worn around the neck, with an attached hook that is used to hold the USB Flash Drive. We offer lanyards for usb sticks that can be branded with your logo by way of either printing or embroidery. See our USB Accessories.
Memory:
You would usually refer to the memory of a USB Flash Drive simply as ‘memory’, but others terms use are ‘capacity’ and ‘storage.’ The memory sizes come in a range of different sizes. They are as follows, 128Mb, 256Mb, 512Mb, 1Gb, 2Gb, 4Gb, 8Gb,16Gb, 32Gb and 64Gb. 4GB of memory is the most popular size but it’s useful to know exactly how many files this would hold.
Mock Up:
An image illustrating the USB flash drive with your logo file. A further proof would be provided prior to production.
MOQ:
Minimum Order Quantity
Pantone Reference:
All colours have a specific reference will allows printers to match any logo colours. These 3 or 4 digit references must be provided with the artwork.
Proof:
This is a visual of the chosen USB Flash Drive. It details the layout, size and colours in the logo. It is important that the proof is checked closely.
USB:
Universal Serial Bus. This is an industry standard introduced to allow peripherals to be used across all desktop and laptops.
USB Flash Drive:
The most commonly used term but others include: USB memory stick, USB pen drive, USB key drive, USB jump drive, USB thumb drive and USB drive.