7 Managing and sharing information

Drives are digital storage devices that help you store, manage, share, and access information. Your computer has an internal hard drive or a solid state drive that stores your computer's software, operating system, and also provides storage for all of your personal files. Some computers 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).

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 Universal Serial Bus (USB) flash drive, connected to the 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 17.

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 numerous kinds of external devices–such as a USB keyboard, mouse, external drive, printer, scanner, or USB hub–to your computer.

Your computer has 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 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.

 

 

USB 3.0 charging port

Connects an optional USB device. The USB 3.0 charging

 

port can also charge select models of cell phones and MP3

 

players, even when the computer is off.

 

NOTE: A USB charging port (also referred to as a USB

 

powered port) allows you to charge connected USB devices.

 

Standard USB ports will not charge all USB devices or will

 

charge using a low current. Some USB devices require

 

power and require you to use a powered port.

 

 

Using a USB device 51