page_title: USB flash drive
section_title: Additional components
hierarchical_section_title: USB flash drive / Technology / Additional components
caption_attribution_description: English: A USB flash drive with the plastic casing removed
context_page_description: A USB flash drive is a data storage device that includes flash memory with an integrated USB interface. It is typically removable, rewritable and much smaller than an optical disc. Most weigh less than 30 g. Since first appearing on the market in late 2000, as with virtually all other computer memory devices, storage capacities have risen while prices have dropped. As of March 2016, flash drives with anywhere from 8 to 256 gigabytes were frequently sold, while 512 GB and 1 terabyte units were less frequent. As of 2018, 2 TB flash drives were the largest available in terms of storage capacity. Some allow up to 100,000 write/erase cycles, depending on the exact type of memory chip used, and are thought to last between 10 and 100 years under normal circumstances.
  USB flash drives are often used for storage, data back-up and transfering of computer files. Compared with floppy disks or CDs, they are smaller, faster, have significantly more capacity, and are more durable due to a lack of moving parts. Additionally, they are immune to electromagnetic interference, and are unharmed by surface scratches.
context_section_description: The typical device may also include:
  Jumpers and test pins – for testing during the flash drive's manufacturing or loading code into its microcontroller.
  LEDs – indicate data transfers or data reads and writes.
  Write-protect switches – Enable or disable writing of data into memory.
  Unpopulated space – provides space to include a second memory chip. Having this second space allows the manufacturer to use a single printed circuit board for more than one storage size device.
  USB connector cover or cap – reduces the risk of damage, prevents the entry of dirt or other contaminants, and improves overall device appearance. Some flash drives use retractable USB connectors instead. Others have a swivel arrangement so that the connector can be protected without removing anything.
  Transport aid – the cap or the body often contains a hole suitable for connection to a key chain or lanyard. Connecting the cap, rather than the body, can allow the drive itself to be lost.
  Some drives offer expandable storage via an internal memory card slot, much like a memory card reader.
caption: The front and rear side of a USB flash drive with the casing removed
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