USB Flash Memory Memory Guide

A USB (universal serial bus) flash drive is a storage device used for storing files and transferring them between computers. They can be plugged in to any USB port. These devices are popular for data storage among students because the USB drive is much smaller than a re-writable CD (They are typically just 2.5 to 10 cm in length). They can be be clipped on to a keyring, or stored in a backpack without being damaged. They are durable, and re-writable. A USB flash drive typically comes in capacities ranging from 64 MB to 32 GB, however the sizes (and prices per-gigabyte) are steadily improving. The first commercially available USB flash drives were commonly referred to as "ThumbDrives", due to their size. Some people still use this nick name.

Most USB drives feature a cover or cap over the connector. This prevents damage due to static electricity, and reduces the risk of the connector becoming bent. Some do not have a cap, but are retractable or "swivel". With these models, the cap is permanently connected to the USB drive to prevent the chance of losing it. Many also contain holes or clips for key-chains or lanyards to aid in their portability. There are many novelty USB drives available, as well as drives available in multi-tools. One example of this is a line of swiss-army knives featuring USB flash drives. Flash drive case-modding has become increasingly popular.

There are some disadvantages to USB flash drives. While they are re-writable, like all flash memory storage devices they can only sustain a certain number of write an erase cycles before failure. However under normal conditions, a mid-range flash drive will support several hundred thousand cycles so these devices typically have a long life. Write operations will gradually slow as the drive ages. Special versions of operating systems - such as Linux - are available for use on USB drives. An increasing number of portable apps are being made for usb drives.