The USB Mass Storage Device Protocol defines how USB devices which are attached to a host computer should interact (such as flash drives, external hard drives, and memory cards) and this protocol is critical for allowing stuff to talk with each other in the computer world. Here’s a breakdown of its core components:

In order for a USB flash drives to work interchangeably with other devices a universal standard must be created, defined and implemented for both device manufactures (the flash drives) and the host manufacturers (what flash drives are plugged into). The “Mass Storage Device” is the more technical term for what a USB flash drive is ( or USB hard drive or other memory storage device ) classified as. The classification spells out how communication works between the host computer and USB device.

The following information is a general outline and meant for non-technical readers to better understand the USB Mass Storage Device is. A link at the bottom will direct readers to a more technical resource, say someone reading up from a computer science class.

Let us start with the “Device Class and Protocol”

As mentioned the Mass Storage Class (also known as MSC) is a set of specifications which define a standardized way the USB device will present itself and communicate with the host (what it is plugged into); for example a computer, smartphone a car stereo or even the USB socket you find on a passenger plane. All of these “hosts” must conform to a specific way to communicate with the device.

Although we mention the USB socket of a plane, that particular situation doesn’t require “data transfer” and it’s only meant for power; although a specification is still required even when only dealing with power and/or charging. With that said, the most common protocol used for MSC devices is the “Bulk Only Transport” or BOT. The BOT is a method defining how data is either read or written from one device to the other. The BOT is designed to be fast and optimize data transfer while at the same time providing a reliable and stable code base for transferring data.

As a side note, the BOT was improved with UASP. The newer UASP (USB Attached SCSI Protocol) was introduced for the USB 3.0+ speed of devices. The UASP improves the older BOT by allowing faster data transfer rates and better performance to the devices which support the newer UASP.

So whether the host and attached device, say a USB flash drive, use BOT or UASP the commands used come from the SCSI (Small Computer System Interface) protocol. This protocol was developed in the late 1970s and ultimately introduced to the public for use in 1986. So the SCSI protocol has been around for a very long time.

One pillar of the SCSI protocol is the “block device” appearance of a device connected to a computer. This block device approach helps organize data and allows the two to communicate in blocks. Remember the most basic, 1024? the block device approach allows data transfer to work more efficiently and organized than other approaches.

The Mass Storage Device specification will classify data transfer speeds. This type of classification will setup the host computer and device on the best method to communicate. This is important because you want to define a Mass Storage Device’s ability to transmit data, during either the read or write operation, to an optimal speed for best performance. So for example, you don’t want a USB 3.0 hard drive communicating with the host computer at USB 2.0 speeds. The classification for data transfer will sync up the proper protocol.

Review: USB-C cable tester by BLE caberQU

USB-C has firmly established itself as the universal connector standard, integrating data transfer, power delivery, and video output into a single interface. With so many cables on the market, knowing which ones truly deliver on their promises can be challenging. That’s where the BLE caberQU comes in, a great USB-C cable tester that provides the details most people never realize they’re missing.

We can break down the need to test USB-C cables into five categories. And it’s worth saying out loud: if you’re going to spend good money on a device, monitor, or peripheral, isn’t it worth a bit of effort to make sure the cable connecting everything actually performs at the level it claims?

The blockbuster category is USB-C data transfer speed. Different USB-C cables support very different throughput. Some are limited to USB 2.0 (480 Mbps), while others support USB 3.1 or USB 3.2 (up to 10 or 20 Gbps). Testing confirms you’re getting the performance you paid for, especially when moving large files or working with external storage.

The BLE caberQU excels at its core purpose. It provides a reliable way to test USB-C cables for data speed, charging capability, and overall health. The LED indicators offer a clear visual of pin connectivity, which simplifies troubleshooting. The LCD screen takes things further, providing detailed metrics about the cable being tested.

The second most important category is compatibility. Not all USB-C cables are created equal. Some won’t properly support higher-speed protocols like Thunderbolt 3 or 4, which can affect everything from monitor output to dock behavior. The BLE caberQU offers a systematic way to determine the true protocol capability of a cable. Because some marginal cables can produce inconsistent results, testing a cable multiple times is recommended to ensure the reported values are accurate.

SMI (Silicon Motion Inc.) has introduced a new chip that allows multiple 4K displays to connect to a single host computer. The SM770 chip is what SMI calls a high-performance USB display interface, or system-on-chip (SoC).

The promise is straightforward: run three concurrent 4K UHD displays from one host system without noticeable latency. The new SMI chip includes a user-friendly InstantView software application designed to manage and configure multi-display setups. One of the more attractive points is that it does not require a traditional display driver, which helps avoid the long-term maintenance headaches that often come with driver dependencies.

The SM770’s feature set includes:

• Support for triple 4K (3840 × 2160) @60Hz, with support up to 144Hz displays
• Second-generation CAT technology delivering reduced-latency codec performance
• USB 3.2 Gen2 (10Gbps)
• Support for displays over USB, Ethernet, or wireless
• Operating system compatibility: Windows, Linux, macOS, Android, and ChromeOS

USB docking stations have become essential for professionals who rely on multi-screen workflows. The SM770 is clearly positioned to improve that experience by reducing latency and improving overall system efficiency. This type of technology supports the next generation of high-quality USB docking stations and display adapters built for demanding modern work environments.

At the time of writing, the chips are available for sampling, but we have yet to see a finished consumer product using the SM770 in the wild. If SMI (or any partner) has a shipping product, we’d genuinely like to hear about it.

The PTH200 from Dracal Tech offers a long list of benefits for environmental monitoring and data acquisition. Below are ten practical reasons this device stands out.

1. Very accurate. The sensors are precise, factory-calibrated, and compensate for temperature variation. This matters when you need reliable environmental data.

2. Easy to use. The compact size makes the device easy to integrate into existing systems, even where space is limited.

3. Simple software. Dracal includes a straightforward interface and management tools that do not require deep technical expertise.

A “USB copy service” means copying data from one USB drive to many other USB drives at the same time. A USB duplication service company is a good resource when the content owner does not have the equipment to produce large volumes of copies. Some duplication systems cost several thousand dollars, so it is often more economical to hire a service rather than invest in the hardware. Another common reason is a company not having the staff or internal workflow to run a dedicated USB duplication operation.

Picking the right USB duplication service matters because the job must be accurate and reliable. The service should understand USB flash media quality, since not all USB sticks are made the same and there is a wide range of NAND memory quality that affects long-term reliability. USBCOPIER.com is a service that has been around since 2004 and has seen USB evolve from USB 1.0 through today’s USB 3.2 generation.

Great USB Copy Service

USBCOPIER.com is easy to work with and available during business hours (8am to 4pm Pacific Time). They use professional USB duplication equipment (Nexcopy) to copy and verify data. That verification step is critical when the content being distributed actually matters.

Fast USB Copying

Speed matters when deadlines are involved. USBCOPIER.com focuses on fast turnaround while still maintaining data integrity and quality control. If you need volume duplication completed quickly, this is a practical advantage.

Customizable USB Duplication Solutions

USBCOPIER.com allows extensive customization in their USB duplication service. They provide a range of

Although the Covid pandemic is officially over, from that time, people are paying more attention to the cleanliness of things they come in contact with. Because this website is dedicated to USB technology, it’s probably worth a mention about the Microban Technology used with USB flash drives from Verbatim.

Microban technology is a type of antimicrobial technology that is incorporated into products during the manufacturing process to provide continuous antimicrobial protection against a range of microbes such as bacteria, mold, and mildew.

Microban works by disrupting the vital life processes and biological functions of microbes that come into contact with the treated surface. This disruption helps to prevent the growth and proliferation of these microbes.

Verbatim is now incorporating some of their USB flash drive products with this Microban technology. Consider the following:

If someone handles a flash drive with unwashed or unclean hands, they can transfer bacteria or other microbes onto the surface of the drive. Common bacteria from hands could include Staphylococcus aureus or Escherichia coli (E. coli).

Flash drives are often carried in pockets, bags, or purses where they can pick up dirt, dust, and other contaminants that may contain microbes. Pockets and bags are not always the cleanest environments, especially if food, tissues, or other items are stored alongside the flash drive.

The Verbatim flash drives are available from Amazon in 16GB, 32GB and 64GB capacities. The “Pinstrip” drive uses the Microban technology.

Microban technology was developed by a team led by Dr. John H. McConnell in the mid-1960s. Dr. McConnell, along with his colleagues at Microban Products Company (formerly known as Microban International), pioneered the use of antimicrobial additives for various applications, including consumer products, textiles, and industrial materials.

The maximum file size for a single file on a FAT32 file system is not exactly 4 GB, but rather slightly less than that. FAT32 uses a 32-bit file allocation table, which means it can theoretically support file sizes up to 4,294,967,295 bytes (which is 4 GB minus 1 byte).

However, in practical terms, the maximum file size is usually constrained by the operating system or the software used to create or manipulate the file. Some operating systems or software may impose additional limitations, such as a maximum file size of 2 GB or 4 GB.

Furthermore, while FAT32 technically supports file sizes up to 4 GB minus 1 byte, it may not be the most efficient or reliable choice for handling very large files due to its limitations. For handling larger files, other file systems like NTFS (New Technology File System) or exFAT (Extended File Allocation Table) are typically more suitable.

Microsoft did not explicitly stop supporting FAT32 for formatting 64GB drives, but rather the limitations of the FAT32 file system itself led to practical considerations. FAT32 has inherent limitations in terms of maximum volume size and file size.

FAT32 has a maximum volume size limit of 32 GB when formatting drives in Windows. While there are ways to format larger drives with FAT32 (e.g., using third-party utilities or command-line tools), it’s not officially supported by Windows due to compatibility and stability concerns.

Given the limitations, Microsoft and other operating system developers have shifted towards file systems like NTFS (New Technology File System) and exFAT (Extended File Allocation Table) for handling larger drives and files. NTFS, in particular, provides better performance, security features, and support for larger volumes and files compared to FAT32.

Therefore, while FAT32 remains useful for smaller drives and compatibility with older systems and devices, its limitations make it less suitable for modern storage solutions, especially when dealing with larger capacities like 64GB or more.

Related: Why did Microsoft drop the feature to format 64GB flash drives as FAT32?

IKEA has issued a recall for thousands of its ASKSTORM 40W USB Chargers in the United States and Canada due to potential burn and electric shock hazards. The recall, prompted by the Consumer Product Safety Commission, addresses concerns that the chargers’ cables may break or become damaged over time, posing risks to users.

Internationally, there have been 17 reported incidents related to these chargers, including five instances of burns and four reports of electrical shock. However, no such incidents have been reported in the United States.

These gray chargers, bearing model number ICPSW5-40-1, were sold both online and in IKEA stores between April 2020 and December 2023.

Contact the IKEA recall center to find out how to swap out the product or receive a refund for the purchase.

In its journey to becoming a household name, IKEA has a rich history that dates back to 1943 when founder Ingvar Kamprad started selling pens, wallets, and other goods. The company’s name is an acronym formed from Ingvar Kamprad’s initials along with those of the farm where he grew up (Elmtaryd) and the nearby village (Agunnaryd) in Sweden. From these humble beginnings, IKEA gradually evolved, introducing its first furniture piece in 1947 and opening its first store in 1958. Over the decades, IKEA’s innovative approach to design, affordability, and sustainability has propelled it to global success, making it a beloved brand for millions of customers worldwide.

Using the “Imagine with Meta AI tool, we have not found the correct prompts to generate a realistic looking USB flash drive. This is the best we’ve come up with. If someone is having success creating an AI version of a USB flash drive, please let us know! (gmo [at] getusb [dot] info)

IronKey is the bell-weather for encrypted flash drives. The company, owned by Kingston Digital, a Southern California based private company, uses hardware encryption chips with their USB flash drives which provide the highest level of security known to mass storage devices.

GetUSB.info came across an amazing story by Wired Magazine about how one of the authors at Wired sent an IronKey to a hacking company called Unciphered in Seattle Washington to see if they could access the drive. The did.

This is not an easy task to accomplish. IronKey uses encryption to safeguard important data with FIPS 140-2 Level 3 certified, FIPS 197 certified and XTS-AES 256-bit encryption. The solution allows for 10 tries before the USB controller wipes the device clean of any data. So there is a big risk-reward for using the device and losing the password to the device.

However, Unciphered developed a method to allow more attempts than just 10. It is not entirely clear how many attempts Unciphered is able to apply, but it’s more than 10.

Why is this significant, other than the fact IronKey may now have a security issue on their hands? It is well known in early 2021, a report of just over 7,000 Bitcoin were stranded in an IronKey flash drive due to a forgotten password. The owner, Programmer Stefan Thomas, did not utilize the Enterprise Management Service for password recovery. The 7000 bitcoin is currently (as of Oct 2023) worth over $235 million dollars.

To give Wired Magazine their due credit, read the full story by Andy Greenberg.

Users can turn disable USB flash drive pop up messages in Windows 10 by performing a very simple step in Settings. While it may seem counterproductive to turn off USB notifications in Windows 10, once you’ve been using Windows for a while you will likely want to reduce the number of pop-up messages.

There are two ways to disable USB flash drive messages in Windows. Performing a RegEdit or modifing a Settings feature in the Windows GUI

Disable the USB flash drive pop up message via Windows Registry Edit

• Open RegEdit by typing “regedit” in the Search bar
• Navigate to: HOKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Miscrosoft\Shell\USB
• Click the USB folder on the left of the screen to highlight the registry entries for \USB\
• On the right side of screen select “NotifyOnUsbErrors” by clicking on it
• Right click and select “Modify”
• Set the value to “0” (zero). Zero is off, One is on

NOTE: Most users will receive a message saying they do not have privileges to modify the registry value. That is meant by design, and please see the comments at the end of this article for why.

Disable the USB flash drive pop up message via Settings

• Type “settings” in the Seach bar of Windows
• Select “Devices”
• Select the USB tab near/at the bottom on left
• Uncheck “Notify me if there are issues connecting USB devices

The second method via Settings is the preferred method because changing registry entries is not recommended unless the user is very experienced with computers. Windows 10 does a good job of not allowing users make registry changes that would crash their computer or brick the operating system, but the risk is still there.

If you received some sort of permissions message when attempting our regedit method, I would stay away from trying to resolve that security message. The reason Miscrosoft locks downt he registry in certain areas is to provide a more secure computer system for the user and reduce potential risk of malware or hackers getting control of your computer.

Over the years, numerous reports have come out about how hackers will expose certain USB protocols to insert malware or take control of a system. The registry is the main point of focus for hackers.

If you are persistent about changing the registry entries the first thing you can try is running RegEdit as Administrator. If that doesn’t resolve your issue then you may Google search for your specific error message and see if another website offers up a solution.