Taking it with you--USB Flash Drives

USB Flash Drives, also known as Flash keys, Thumb drives, Jump or Pen drives, or USB keys, are among the most convenient gadgets invented in a long time.  They're about 3" x 5/8" x 1/4" in size, lightweight and sturdy.  They range in capacity from 128 MB to 4 GB.  The lower capacity flash drives are inexpensive, typically no more than $20, and often much less with rebates.  Large capacity (1GB+, more than a CD-ROM), range from $65 to $100 at current writing.

Flash Drives plug into USB ports on your computer; most computers manufactured in the last six-seven years have at least two USB ports.  Older computers will have "USB 1.0" or USB "1.1" ports; newer computers have "USB 2.0" ports.  Newer ports are faster than old ones, but most flash drives work on all USB ports.

A 128 MB flash drive is equivalent to more than 85 floppy disks!  Since Auction! backups are typically less than 0.25 MB, you could store 500 backups on one flash drive!

Flash drives are quick and easy to use.  Computers running Windows XP will install them automatically when plugged in for the first time; you may need the included driver CD for some older computers.  When you install the drive, Windows will assign it a drive letter, such as "E:"

Flash drives are great for backing up your event data and merging.  You can also store lots of other material, such as artwork for your catalog cover, spreadsheets and document copy for invitations, etc.

Flash drives are sturdy and reliable; carry one in your pocket or purse, and have your data right at your fingertips!