7 Managing and sharing information

Drives are digital storage devices or solid-state drives that help you store, manage, share, and access information. Your computer has an internal hard drive that stores your computer's software, operating system, as well as providing storage for all of your personal files. Some computers also have a built-in optical drive that allows you to read or write to a CD, DVD, or (on select models) Blu- ray Disc (BD), to play and record audio and video.

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 to import information 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 14.

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.

Your computer may have more than one type of USB port. See Getting to know your computer on page 4 for the types of USB ports you have on this computer. Be sure to purchase devices that are compatible with your computer.

Type

Description

 

 

USB 2.0

Transfers data at 60 MB/s.

 

 

USB 3.0

Transfers data at 640 MB/s. USB 3.0 ports, also known as

 

SuperSpeed ports, are also compatible with USB 1.0 and 2.0

 

devices.

 

 

Connecting a USB device

CAUTION: To reduce the risk of damage to a USB connector, use minimal force to connect the device.

44 Chapter 7 Managing and sharing information