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Posts tagged USB Technology
Thinking about Marketing – Consider USB Flash Drives
Dec 10th
Back in the late 1990’s USB drives were invented by computer designers who wanted a faster and easier way to store files because, the only forms of storage back then were either floppy disks or portable flash drives that were often bulky and inconvenient.
As the 21st century started, USB flash drives quickly became a huge part of the average computer user’s life because, computer users were able to save large amounts of files to a little “thumb drive” or “rabbit’s foot” drive without having to burn lots of files to disk.
USB Drives and Freebies
If you have a business and are searching for more ways to promote it, there’s nothing better than using USB flash drives for promotion. In today’s world there are literally millions of computer users around the world and almost every computer user from small children to the elderly can benefit from a USB flash drive.
Before having USB flash drives printed up, make sure that your flash drive has your logo, name, phone number and website address on it because, you want potential customers to call you when they need your services or solutions.
Where to Get USB Drives In Bulk
Before contacting a printer in your town, make sure that you check online for affordable printers because, there are literally hundreds of online printers that can offer you great deals on printing USB drives in bulk.
Once you receive your USB drive order, make sure that every drive has your company sales brochure and marketing information saved to it because, there’s no better way to get your sales information in front of a customer than by saving it to the USB drive first before giving it away for free.
Cross Promotions
To gain more return on your marketing investment, don’t hesitate to contact other business owners in your town and create a cross marketing promotion that involves them leaving their marketing materials in your store or office in exchange for you leaving your marketing materials in their office or store. This strategy will give you more traction out of your USB promotional marketing investment.
USB promotional marketing works and is a very effective form of advertising that can benefit any business.
USB Drives for Political Campaigns
Dec 7th
Election time is officially here and for many politicians it’s a time of hard work as they are diligently spreading the word about their candidacies in the hopes of getting elected for the first time or re-elected once again.
How can politicians get their message in front of more people without spending thousands of dollars on marketing costs? The answer is simple: USB Flash Drives.
Why USB Flash Drives?
USB flash drives are a hot marketing item right now because, almost everyone uses a computer these days and USB drives are an easy way to save files, pictures or programs without saving them to a computer and “bogging down” that machine.
The average computer user in this day and age finds their USB flash drive so useful that they take it with them wherever they go and this is a huge opportunity for politicians who want to get their message out. A politician’s campaign can have specialty USB flash drives with the candidates name and campaign slogan printed up and then before handing them out, that candidate’s message can be saved to the flash drive in a PDF format.
Are USB Drives Expensive?
No, USB drives are very affordable. There are many affordable online printers in this day and age that can affordably print a few thousand USB flash drives for under $500. The great thing about this type of ad specialty item is that they will be in use again and again so a political candidate can continue to get their marketing message out long after they are re-elected.
USB Drives Vs. Other Online Advertising
Another reason why USB promotional drives are an effective form of advertising is that they are seen by more eye’s than other forms of advertising like online, print or television advertising. Since a USB drive spends it’s time plugged into a computer, the average computer user will see it more often and that marketing message will be “imprinted” on that person’s brain.
USB flash drives – How they can benefit your business
Nov 29th
Back in the year 2000 the computer world changed once again when the first USB flash drive was released. Thanks to the USB drive, computer users were able to easily store files and take them anywhere compared to saving files to floppy disks which were still cumbersome and inconvenient.
In 2012 USB flash drives are used almost every single day by computer users who want to store excess files, pictures or games that they don’t want to store on their computers. The excessive use of USB drives also creates a huge opportunity for business owners who want to promote their businesses.
USB Drives and Value
Besides being a device that average people use every single day, USB drives also have a perceived value compared to other promotional items so if someone receives one for free, they are more likely to use it than other promo items.
What Marketing Message Works Best?
To use USB flash drives as promotional items a business should always have their company logo, name, website address and 1-800 phone number printed on the USB drive because, the more ways a customer has to contact a business, the better.
Personalize It
Instead of choosing a flat black or generic USB flash drive, a business should personalize the drive to match the businesses products, services or solution. In today’s world it’s possible for any business to get a personalize flash drive that best represents the products that they offer.
If a flash drive is cool and also fun, it will be used more regularly than a boring old flash drive.
Return on Investment
If you do any online research you will see that ad specialty items like personalized USB drives offer a higher return on investment than other forms of advertising because they are seen by more eyeballs on a daily basis and the owner is more likely to call a business owner when they need their help.
Networking Via USB
Dec 19th
USB technology is designed to allow greater communication possibilities between computers and peripheral devices. Networking, in any of its forms, is the end result of such communication. When several computers are linked together, they form a computer network. No surprise then that USB technology can be used right along with networking to make your life easier.
Three Kinds of USB Networking
USB networking can occur in several different ways:
- You can network two or more computers together using a USB bridge, but do not try to link them using any other type of USB cable as this can result in severe damage to both computers. A USB bridge is a special cable connector that will allow you to link the machines without damaging them.
- You can create a USB hub that services some or all of your peripheral devices. Once you have created that hub, you can network the devices in such a way that they are shared between multiple computers. This is useful in a home or small office, when you want to share connectivity without having to mess around with physical connections
- You can also use your wireless network to share connectivity to USB devices. This makes it possible to connect to a printer, for example, from anywhere on the network without needing to physically connect your machine to that printer.
These are all ways that USB and networking technology can be used together to improve your connectivity and your efficiency.
Why Network?
When your computers and other devices are linked together to create a computer network, then you can have access to the information and functionality that you need from your electronic devices with very little effort. This technology essentially allows you to share your devices across multiple computers. It also allows you to share the information that those devices contain. When your computers are networked, you don’t need a flash drive to carry your projects, your music, or even your apps. You can simply access them across the network. Nor do you need to physically plug your computer into other devices. With USB technology, its simple to make your electronics talk to each other and your life easier.
USB App Platforms
Dec 17th
Portable applications are one of the fastest growing uses for your flash drive today. These stripped down applications come in as many different varieties as the ones you run from your main computer. The difference is that these are designed to be stored and run from your portable device without leaving a footprint on the computer you are using. Portable applications allow you to keep a key set of applications with you to be run on any computer you use without the need for installation. This tends to be particularly useful when shuttling between computers at home and at work, school, or internet cafes and libraries. Basically, it’s a way to personalize any computer that you use, but only while you’re using it.
Common App Platforms
Because of their footprint free design, portable applications need some sort of platform to run. These platforms are stored on the drive and tell the applications there when it is time to launch and how to behave on the computer you are using. There are options available for most operating systems, but platforms for the windows OS are the most prevalent by far. Some of the major app platforms currently available include:
- Appetizer
- ASuite
- Ceedo
- Launchy
- OpenDisc
- PortableApps.com
- PStart
- RocketDock
- SyMenu
- U3 Launchpad
Some, like U3 come preinstalled in specific flash drives. These cannot be purchased and installed separately. Some are available for free or for a nominal fee from their creators. No matter which one you chose, though, you will need a platform in order to run your other portable applications.
Portable Application Possibilities
In many ways, these portable applications are like the apps available for iOS devices like the iPhone and the iPad. Usually, they are created independently to serve a specific perceived need, a portable game or perhaps a portable code compiler, for example. Sometimes they are tied to specific programs as well. Most popular web browsers have apps designed to keep your bookmarks at hand without leaving any personal browsing information on the computer you are using. Either way, you can easily build up a library of personal applications to keep at hand on your flash drive.
A USB Battery?
Dec 15th
USB technology is phenomenally versatile. This is probably the reason why it has taken the place of some many other, similar technological options, coming to dominate the market even as it grows more sophisticated. So when it comes to USB, if you can dream it, it’s probably been done. The gamut of USB devices runs from artificial pets to networking devices to hard drives to simple power cords. It should not come as a surprise then, that there is now a USB capable battery on the market.
A “Green” Battery Option
USB Cells are rechargeable batteries that have been designed to recharge via a USB connection rather than a wall socket. It’s a fascinating new approach to making batteries more environmentally friendly. Of course, there have been rechargeable batteries on the market for years, what makes these unique is their USB technology. According to their makers, these batteries are the solution to the over fifteen billion alkaline batteries that are used and thrown away each year. By contrast the USB Cells can be used and then recharged many hundreds of times without needing to be replaced.
A Simple Battery Solution
In addition to being green, these batteries are also convenient. They allow you to travel with a renewable power source that doesn’t need any peripherals of its own, no cords or any other paraphernalia. Instead, you simply plug them into a USB capable device and allow them to recharge. If you have a hand help game player, for example, you could charge one set while using another to power the machine. When the set in use has drained, you simply switch them out for the newly powered pair.
The Future of USB Battery Technology
Currently, the batteries are available in AA cells, but the product has been so well received that there are now new options in production as well. These include:
- AAA USB Cell Batteries
- C/D USB Cell Batteries
- 9V USB Cell Batteries
- Prismatic USB Cell Batteries
- Phone and Device USB Cell Batteries
- Fashion USB Cell Batteries
Look for all of these USB Cell Batteries to be available in the near future.
Have Questions About External Hard Drives?
Dec 13th
Let’s face it. Technology today is a confusing and changing whirl of ever-changing products and capabilities. Its not surprising, therefore, that you may have questions about external hard drives. But everyone with a computer should know some basics about peripheral devices and external hard drives are some of the most powerful peripherals around. Take a little time to learn what they are and what they can do and you’ll be glad you did.
What is an External Hard Drive?
An external hard drive is just that. It is designed along the same lines as the hard drive that keeps your computer running day in and day out. The main difference? It lives outside of a computer’s shell. Instead it is a peripheral device, but one that is incredibly powerful. It connects to your machine, or any other machine that you choose to connect it to, via a USB port. That connection allows the hard drive to talk to the machine it is connected to. Essentially, it can share data.
The Benefits of an External Hard Drive
An external hard drive is more powerful than some of the other drives you can connect to your computer. It is also more stable, although it does need to be cared for and protected in roughly the same way as an internal hard drive. The unique qualities of an external hard drive will allow you to use it in a number of different ways. For example, you’ve probably encountered the external hard drive already if you’re searching for storage solutions for your data. Many people use them to create long-term back-ups of their most important data. But they can also be used to store and run applications and even an OS. This can be particularly useful if you need to run an application of your own to perform work on someone else’s computer. Alternatively, you can store a snapshot of your entire computer system on an external hard drive and use it to restore your computer if you are attacked by a virus. In the end, there are many different uses for this technology, almost as many as there are for the hard drive inside your computer.
Think All Flashdrives are Created Equal?
Dec 11th
USB flash drive technology is currently the most common method for the storage and transfer of digital information. When you’re buying a flash drive, it may seem like they’re all the same—aside from their exterior design. You can get flash drives that are shaped like legos or colored with neon patterns, but in all likelihood, you expect the technology inside the case to work the same way. Strangely enough, however, picking out a flash drive is not all about choosing the best or most attractive design. Not all flash drives are actually created equal and if you intend to buy one, it would behoove you to do a little thought and research before you make a decision.
Choose the Right Size
Most people will tell you that you should begin your considerations with an honest look at your budget and your memory needs. Flash drives are becoming capable of handling more and more storage in smaller and smaller packages almost daily, but more is not necessarily better. Consider the type of use you will be making of your drive and calculate whether you really need 250 GB to move your word documents around. Ideally, you should shoot for a size just a bit over what you really think you’ll need during the lifetime of the device. You can always upgrade if you need to, but you’ll feel like you wasted money if you spring for a super expensive device with a capacity you never even begin to tap.
Choose the Best Drive
Picking a storage capacity will help to narrow the field. Your next considerations should be the manufacturer and brand as well as any useful features you might want. Picking a well-known and established brand will help you to feel that you are getting a quality product. You may also want to look for a drive with a good warranty. Most flash drives take a lot of abuse after all, you will want to know that your device is protected. When it comes to features, look for write protection switches that will keep a computer from wiping or overwriting the drive without your permission. Another feature to look into is password protection.
What You Should Know About Backing Your Files Up On USB Devices
Dec 9th
One of the most common uses for USB technology is data storage. It makes sense really, the whole purpose of the technology is to facilitate data transfer from one device to another. We use USB flash drives and hard drives all the time when we need a place to store our information—whether it’s for a temporary transfer or long term storage. In the case of long term storage, however, the details of what and how you store your information become much more important. The stakes rise again when you are storing data for the back up of a machine. No one wants to take the trouble to make a back up, only to find its been corrupted or destroyed when you really need it. If you’re planning to make a back up using a USB drive, then here’s what you should know.
Pick the Right Device
The first thing that you will need to do is pick a device to store your data. Though there are many USB devices available for this sort of use it is best to consider an external hard drive. These drives are essentially the same as the ones in your computer. What makes them a better choice for long-term data storage is their stability over the long term and their large storage capacity. Something like a USB flash drive will tend to be less stable after multiple uses and though their memory capacity continues to grow, an external hard drive still has it beat.
Protect Your Data
Once you’ve made your back up, you will want to take steps to protect your data. This also means protecting the drive you used to hold that data. An external hard drive, for example should be stored level and protected from vibration and sudden movement. A flash drive will need to be put in a safe place where it cannot get lost or damaged. If you are truly concerned about your data, you may want to consider taking some extra steps to protect it. These could include making multiple back ups or arranging for data encryption on your drive. If you take the necessary steps to protect your data, then it will be waiting for you when you need it.
USB Slippers And Other Technological Oddities
Dec 7th
The extreme flexibility of USB technology has given rise to a number of unique and interesting USB devices over the years. These are the kinds of devices that can be used with a computer or other USB controller, but really have very little to do with actual computing. Instead, they use the technology to make these quirky and fun gadgets possible for you to use anywhere you have a computer.
- USB Slippers-These slippers are designed to plug into your computer’s USB port and are made of wool with a built in heating pad. Once you plug them into the machine, they begin to warm up and so do your feet! They’re perfect for cold feet when traveling.
- USB Kitty-This little pet plugs into your computer and uses sensors to respond to your petting with an appropriate meow. It can also bob its head and play a whole repertoire of kitty songs. Its less feline functions include a timer and an alarm.
- USB StealthSwitch-This device is actually slightly more practical than the above. When plugged in, a simple push of a button will switch your computer screen from its current application to a previously programmed application of your choice. This means that if you don’t want a boss, parent, or spouse to see what you’re up to at any given time, your StealthSwitch will have your back.
- ScreenSmasher-This device looks like a foam axe and has a USB sensor inside. Take out your frustrations with the computer (or anything else) by hitting the screen with the axe and watching it generate an accurate cracking pattern without damaging a thing. It also has sound effects.
- USB Alarm Clock Air Purifier-Just as it says, this device plugs in and has a clock face in front as well as an air purifier in back. A little something to freshen up your space and keep your schedule on track.
- USB Posture Reminder-This device sits atop your computer monitor and senses the location of your head in relation to its own position. It will flash a little light at you when you are too close or too far from the machine in order to remind you to correct your posture.