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7 Managing and sharing information
Drives are digital storage devices that help you store, manage, share, and access information. Your
computer has a solid state drive that stores your computer's software, operating system, and also
provides storage for all of your personal files.
For added capacity or functionality, connect an external drive (purchased separately), such as an
optical drive or hard drive, or insert a digital storage card directly from your phone or camera. A USB
flash drive, connected to the Universal Serial Bus (USB) port on your computer, also allows quick
data transfer. Some devices use the computer's power to run; others have their own power source.
Some devices come with software that must be installed.
NOTE: For information about connecting external wireless devices, see Connecting to a network
on page 27.
NOTE: For more information about required software and drivers, or to learn which computer port to
use, see the manufacturer's instructions.
Using a USB device
Most computers have more than one USB port, because this versatile interface allows you to connect
to numerous kinds of external devices to your computer, such as a USB keyboard, mouse, external
drive, printer, scanner, or USB hub.
NOTE: Some USB devices may not be supported when the computer is running on AC or battery
power if they do not have their own AC adapters. More than one USB device may not be supported
simultaneously when the computer is running on AC or battery power.
Type Description
USB 2.0 Transfers data at 60 MB/s.
Connecting a USB device
CAUTION: To reduce the risk of damage to a USB connector, use minimal force to connect the
device.
Using a USB device 49