Working in a low light room with proper monitor lighting can reduce stress, reduce headaches and make employees a bit more productive. The Quntis Computer Monitor Light Bar is a sweet workspace lighting addition and good solution for tech peeps who demand a good work light solution. Engineered to eliminate screen glare, the Quntis monitor lamp directs light precisely onto the desktop and keyboard area, ensuring a flicker-free experience that reduces eye strain. Great for long hour workers like coders or accountants. With its built-in auto-dimming sensor, the light automatically adjusts brightness levels based on ambient lighting conditions, maintaining optimal visibility throughout the day and night without user intervention.

Designed for seamless integration and contemporary look to fit in properly with any work environment. The space-saving light bar, because it fits on top of the monitor, easily clips onto monitors 22 inches and wider and freeing up valuable desk space. Powered via USB, the Quntis connects to any workstation setup and we can’t think of a reason why someone would be limited to using this. Connections can be made through a computer, docking station, or external power source. IT managers can appreciate the stepless dimming and adjustable color temperature range (3000K–6500K) , allowing users to fine-tune their workspace lighting from warm to cool tones, enhancing focus and productivity across various tasks.

Built with precision and durability in mind, the Quntis Monitor Light Bar features a high CRI95 LED rating , ensuring true-to-life color accuracy—critical for designers, developers, and content creators. With touch-sensitive controls the Quntis provides intuitive operation, while the power-off memory function retains previous settings, minimizing disruptions and maximizing user convenience. Tested through 10,000+ safety assessments and certified for anti-blue light and optical radiation safety , this monitor lamp is a long-term investment in workplace well-being.

For someone looking to improve office ergonomics, enhance employee efficiency, and reduce screen-related fatigue, the Quntis Monitor Light Bar is a great upgrade. Would also make for the perfect employee gift for a job well done. Its combination of smart functionality, premium build quality, and seamless adaptability makes it the perfect addition to any modern corporate workspace.

According to some online sales reports, the Quntis light bar is one of the most popular selling USB items for the past three months. Sources include Amazon and Google shopping.

About Quntis: A brand under SHENZHEN QIANHAI LIHERUISI KONGGU YOUXIANGONGSI, was established in 2016, focusing on the development and innovation of electronic accessories. The company’s product line includes earphones, audio speakers, and electric charging cables. Over the years, Quntis has expanded its offerings to include eye-care computer lamps and outdoor LED string lights, continually upgrading its products to provide better lighting solutions for consumers.

Trouble in paradise? Apple released a security update to fix an issue which may expose a security risk. The security risk stems from the USB protocol.

Apple isn’t sharing details about who is being targeted, no surprise there.

The vulnerability, known as CVE-2025-24200, could allow someone with physical access to an iPhone to turn off USB Restricted Mode, even if the device is locked.

USB Restricted Mode is the highest probability of having your device exposed to the security risk. The “restricted mode” is a security feature that stops unauthorized people from accessing an iPhone’s data through the lightning port. When this feature is on, the port only allows charging if the phone has been locked for more than an hour. This makes it harder for hackers to break into a locked phone without the correct login information.

The update is available for iPhone XS and newer models, as well as several iPad models, including iPad Pro 13-inch, iPad Pro 12.9-inch (third generation and later), iPad Pro 11-inch (first generation and later), iPad Air (third generation and later), iPad (seventh generation and later), and iPad mini (fifth generation and later).

If you have one of these devices, please update your software as soon as possible. You can check for updates in your device settings.

These types of security flaws are often used by spyware companies, like Pegasus, to spy on specific people. The average user isn’t at risk right now since the details of the attack haven’t been shared publicly. However, if they do get published, criminals could copy the method, making updates even more important.

A cyberattack on a mobile device happens when hackers try to gain access to a smartphone or tablet to steal information, take control, or cause harm. These attacks can occur in different ways, including malicious apps, phishing scams, security flaws, or even physical access to the device.

Malware is one of the most common threats, where harmful software is installed to steal data, track activity, or take over the device. Phishing attacks trick users into providing personal information or login credentials through fake emails, messages, or websites.

Is there a tariff on USB flash drives coming from China – Yes!

UPDATE as of April 9, 2025

The trump administration has no imposed a 120% tariff on USB flash drives. This move was after China did a retaliatory tariff on US goods going into China at 84%. This is a “who will blink first” type situation. Unfortunately, no one is the winner.

UPDATE as of April 7, 2025

As of April 7th during trumps second term, the administration placed an additional 34% tariff on USB flash drives. Although the president does not have unilateral control over tariffs, it is possible Congress will bring a resolution to the floor and reverse or reduce these tariffs. Currently there are efforts for Congress to overturn or amend the tariffs placed on Canada, although no firm bill or law has been passed.

Three tariffs have been assigned to the USB flash drive category when importing product from China since 2020.

The first tariff was assigned during Trump’s first term in office at a rate of 7.5% percent which started February 2020.

The second tariff was assigned during Trump’s second term in office at a rate of 10% percent which started January 2025.

Because of this new tariff announced on “liberation day” (whatever that means) the total amount of tariffs charged to import flash drives from China into the United States is 51.5% on the cost of the product.

Is this bad? Mostly YES and a little no.

A big yes because any tariff assigned to a product during important is affectively a “tax” on the product. This is true for whether the item is being important from China or any other country.

A little “no” because the United States has a trade deficient in relationship to China. By instituting a tariff on imported goods, in theory, is supposed to encourage US suppliers to manufacture product in the United States.

Many economists argue about tariffs. Mostly that tariffs are harmful to the US economy because they increase costs for consumers and businesses while disrupting global trade. Many U.S. manufacturers rely on imported raw materials and components (such as semiconductors, steel, and electronic parts) to produce finished goods. Higher input costs make American businesses less competitive, potentially leading to job losses and slower economic growth.

Tariffs can also provoke retaliatory measures from trading partners, harming US exporters by making their goods more expensive and less competitive in foreign markets. While tariffs are often intended to encourage domestic manufacturing, they may not be effective in reshoring production. Many industries have deeply integrated global supply chains, making it difficult and expensive to shift production back to the US.

For example, there are no major players, such as Kingston, Western Digital, Nexcopy or Micron who manufacture USB flash drive memory inside the United States. These manufacturers use contract factories in China to produce the goods.

Even if these companies had manufacturing capabilities in the United States the NAND memory required to make the product would need to be imported from China. Since the NAND memory makes up 90% of the USB flash drive product cost, the advantage to move manufacturing to the US is not profitable. It is less expensive to have end-users foot the tariff bill, than to have manufacturers change their supply chain manufacturing strategy.

Tariffs are an old strategy for international business negotiations. The president who implemented these tariffs does not hold the “art of a deal” but rather, simple and elementary visions for how to negotiate trade deals. Tariffs have been used for centuries as a tool to protect domestic industries, generate government revenue, and influence trade relationships. The theory is, imposing tariffs to shield local businesses from foreign competition and ensure domestic industries could develop without being undercut by cheaper imports is no longer a working theory.

While tariffs remain a common negotiation tool, many economists argue that free trade agreements and international cooperation (such as those under the World Trade Organization) are more effective at fostering long-term economic growth. Instead of imposing tariffs, modern trade deals often focus on reducing barriers, increasing market access, and enforcing fair competition rules, which can lead to more sustainable and mutually beneficial trade relationships.

The above paragraph is a major short coming of the current administration (Trump 2025) and the inability to think at these higher levels and negotiate more detailed agreements will ultimately cost the American consumer hundreds, if not thousands, of dollars.

What can you do?

There is not much which can be done to avoid or circumvent the tariff imposed. For example, there is no manufacturer inside the United States producing USB drives. The cost to ship product from China to say Taiwan or Mexico and then ship into the US is more expensive than paying the tariff. Looking forward, the “option” any American has is understanding what a tariff is and how that impacts the bottom line for a company or business. Most importantly, to elect officials who are more in-line with consumer protection rather than exercising retaliatory political moves at the expense of American people.

A couple notes:

• There is no tariff for purchases which remain under $800 dollars
• For major manufactures, the $800 single shipment amount is pointless (see below)
• The Harmonization Code for USB Flash Memory is 8523.51.00.00

USB Flash Drive sales are estimated to be 5.47 Billion dollars for 2024. Let’s say the United States purchased only 1% of that amount, the $800 limit on single orders would still not allow manufacturers to “work the system” and avoid paying tariffs by making hundreds of mini shipping orders – there is too much volume coming into the United States to justify making thousands of small orders under $800. Plus, US Customs would certainly catch on to a scheme like that.

We focus so much on USB here at GetUSB.info that we often overlook other technologies such as portable browsers or new browsers. Today, and I’m sure we are much behind the 8Ball, we talked about What is ChromeOS Flex.

ChromeOS Flex is a lightweight, cloud-based operating system developed by Google, designed to be efficient and compatible with older Windows and Mac computers. ChromeOS Flex is free for everyone. It is different than a Chromebook operating system because the Chromebook OS is designed to work on Android. However; ChromeOS Flex is specifically designed to work with Windows and Mac computers only.

This free alternative is web based and provides a streamlined, secure, and manageable experience. Based on the cloud infrastructure of Google this makes it inviting for personal or corporate users to make the most of their older PCs without having to do hardware upgrades or updates. Web-based applications and cloud computing is very common these days, if not more common than standalone operating systems. ChromeOS Flex offers a modern solution tailored for users who primarily work within an internet-based environment.

One of the key advantages of ChromeOS Flex is its efficiency. Unlike traditional operating systems that can slow down over time due to software bloat, background processes, and frequent updates requiring manual intervention, ChromeOS Flex is designed to run smoothly on older hardware. It boots up quickly, typically within seconds, and operates with minimal system requirements, making it particularly useful for devices that have become sluggish over the years. Google is saying the computer OS can boot as quickly as six seconds. We like the sound of that. Because the OS is cloud-based, much of the processing is offloaded to the internet rather than being handled by the device itself and this is why ChromeOS Flex seems to be a great fit for older hardware.

Google is saying security is another big reason to use ChromeOS Flex. Google has built the operating system with a focus on protection against malware, ransomware, and other cyber threats. We still think Google is looking to glean information off your user habits and browsing habits, so although secure, we are sure there is some ancillary benefit Google is getting from offering up this free OS.

Unlike Windows and macOS, which often require third-party antivirus software to maintain security, ChromeOS Flex includes built-in security features such as sandboxing, verified boot, and automatic background updates that ensure the system is always running the latest, most secure version. Sandboxing isolates applications and processes so that even if a vulnerability is exploited, it does not affect the entire system. Verified boot further enhances security by checking for system integrity at startup, preventing any tampered or malicious software from loading. These features make ChromeOS Flex particularly appealing for businesses and educational institutions where data security is a top priority.

It is common to hear Raspberry Pi owners want more USB ports. GetUSB.info just read about them introducing an official 4 port USB hub. Sweet. To note, most Raspberry Pi single-board computers, except for the Raspberry Pi Zero and A+ models, include a built-in USB hub that splits one USB connection into several USB Type-A ports. Just recently they launched the official Raspberry Pi USB 3 Hub, a high-quality USB 3.0 hub that offers four additional USB ports.

This hub includes a single upstream USB 3.0 Type-A connector with an 3 inches (8 cm) built-in cable. The “upstream” port is the socket used to communicate with the host device, which in this case is the Raspberry Pi. It also has four downstream USB 3.0 Type-A ports and can reach data transfer speeds up to 5 Gbps. There’s a USB-C socket for an optional external 3A power supply but that isn’t included with the $12 purchase. Quick note, the downstream port is are the sockets used to communicate with the devices, like a USB flash drive, hard drive, mouse, keyboard, printer, etc.

One driving force on why Raspberry Pi wanted to sponsor their own USB hub is the fact most ‘other’ hubs are just too expensive. One fundamental goal of Raspberry Pi is to provide an unparalleled offering for computer code development and the lowest possible price. Usually, you either pay a high price for a reliable, well-designed product, or you buy a cheaper option that’s unreliable, doesn’t work with various devices, or simply looks bad.

With this hub, there is no “race to the bottom,” where cheap, poor-quality products pushed out better options, and online marketplaces like Amazon became filled with low-quality hubs. To offer a better solution the Raspberry team got together with with Infineon to source a quality hub chip called the CYUSB3304.

Based on user beta testers and user comments here are the pros and cons of the Raspberry Pi USB 3 Hub:

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 provide all the details one would need.

We can break down the need to test USB-C cables into five categories; and it’s worth noting if you are going to spend good money on a device, monitor or other peripheral, isn’t it worth a bit effort to make sure the cable connecting it all works at the highest level?

Of course the block buster category is USB-C Data Transfer Speed. Different USB-C cables support different data transfer rates. For example, some cables are USB 2.0 (480 Mbps), while others may support USB 3.1 or USB 3.2 (up to 10 or 20 Gbps). Testing ensures you’re getting the expected performance, especially when transferring large files or using external storage devices.

The BLE caberQU excels in its core functions. It provides a reliable way to test USB-C cables for data speed, charging power, and overall health. The LED indicators offer a clear and immediate visual representation of pin connectivity, which simplifies the testing process. The LCD screen takes things further, delivering detailed metrics on data speed of the cable being tested.

The second most important category is Compatibility. Not all USB-C cables are created equally. Some might not be compatible with high-speed protocols like Thunderbolt 3 or 4, which can impact both data transfer rates and compatibility with devices like monitors or docks. The BLE caberQU provides a systematic way to determine the true connectivity protocol of the cable. Although some cables may give false positive results, it is recommended to test the cable multiple times for Compatibility to insure the BLE caberQU reports the correct value.

SMI ( Silicon Motion Inc. ) has introduced a new chip which allows for multiple 4K displays to be connected to a single host computer. The SM770 chip is, what SMI calls, a high performance USB Display interface or “SoC”.

Get three concurrent 4K UHD displays running without latency issues from a single host computer source. The new SMI chip features a user-friendly InstantView software application to configure the multi collection of displays. The free software tool effortlessly configures host content for any display without the need for a display driver which is really nice to avoid future driver update issues we are all so keen on trying to avoid.

The SM770’s features include:

• Support Triple 4K (3840 x 2160) @60Hz, support up to 144Hz display
• The 2nd generation CAT technology delivers codec with reduced latency
• USB 3.2 Gen2 (10Gbps)
• Support displays over USB, Ethernet or Wireless
• OS compatibility: Windows, Linux, macOS, Android, and ChromeOS

USB docking stations are now a must-have for many professionals who need to use more than one screen. The new SM770 is made to make using multiple screens much better by reducing delay and improving system efficiency. This new technology helps create high-quality USB docking stations and display adapters which meet the high demands of today’s work environment.

Current the chips are available for samples, but we have yet to see the chip integrated into an end-user product. SMI… if you know of a product ready to buy, do send us an email.

The PTH200 from Dracal Tech has lots of benefits for tracking the environment and more. Here are 10 great things about using it:

1- Very Accurate The sensors are precise, calibrated, and compensate for temperature. This is important for monitoring exact environmental conditions.

2- Easy to Use The small size makes it simple to add to different systems, even in limited space. This is useful for many different uses.

3- Simple Software Dracal includes an easy-to-use interface and tools for managing the device without needing lots of technical knowledge.

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?

Transfer Photos from iPhone to PC – Easy and Automated

iCloud is the default way to store your photos from your Apple device to another location. Once the files are in your iCloud, you can log into the iCloud account and save those images to your computer.

However, many users don’t use the iCloud service and looking for an alternative. Here is an alternative that is easy, automatic and far less expensive than an iCloud account.

The Qubii Pro is a backup device that takes place while you are charging your phone. There is nothing to do and there are no settings to set. The Qubii Pro is a small device that holds a microSD card for data storage and connects directly to your iPhone cable and of course your charging block.

Transfer photos from your iPhone to storage is automatic. Qubii will scan your video and photo library and backup any file it doesn’t detect on the microSD card. The first time used, the backup process could take a long time because the Qubii hasn’t seen your digital library and so will back everything up. The time to do this will depend on the number of video and photo files you have. However, on subsequent connections Qubii will only backup new photos or video.

Since everyone is good about charging their phones at night, the backup process will take place without disrupting usage. The backup will take place while you sleep.

Yes, Apple gives each user 5GB of free space, but do you realize that space goes very quickly? The high resolution photos and video will chew threw your 5GBs of storage fairly quickly. As you can see from the price matrix below, the cost for using the iCloud isn’t all that expensive, at first, but gets up there for sure!

• Free: 5GB of storage per iCloud account (not per device)
• $0.99/month: 50GB of storage (single user)
• $2.99/month: 200GB of storage (family use)
• $9.99/month: 2TB of storage (family use)
• If you purchase the $22.95/month Apple One Family plan, you receive 200GB of iCloud storage as part of your membership. The $32.95/month Apple One Premier plan comes with 2TB of iCloud storage.

Apple does a very good job of pestering you to signup for the Family Plan so there is a high probability your monthly cost will be north of $20 USD (at the time of this writing in 2023)

With the Qubii, there are some items to be aware of:

• The solution does not allow you to select which video and photo to back up, it just does it all
• If a file is deleted off the microSD card, the solution will backup the photo again if found on your phone
• The solution backs up only photo images and video files, doesn’t backup contacts or documents
• If you swap out the microSD card, the entire backup will start over again

The last point mentioned above is key.

In a move that exemplifies innovation at the intersection of technology and design, CORSAIR®, renowned for its cutting-edge gaming peripherals and PC components, has introduced a groundbreaking solution for gamers, content creators, and professionals alike. The CORSAIR Platform:6, a modular desk engineered to redefine the workspace experience, has arrived on the scene, raising the bar for ergonomic excellence and customizable convenience.

Guided by decades of expertise in crafting high-performance desktop gear, CORSAIR, alongside its subsidiary Elgato, has harnessed an acute understanding of user needs to give birth to the Platform:6. This multifaceted masterpiece not only caters to the evolving demands of gamers and professionals but embodies the very essence of a dynamic and adaptable workspace. Seamlessly integrating premium materials, an unparalleled spectrum of customization options, and an array of intelligent features—ranging from adjustable height mechanisms to meticulous cable management—the Platform:6 sets an all-new standard for the ultimate, feature-rich computer desk.

Embracing the full spectrum of modern lifestyles, from avid gamers to home-based remote workers seeking an optimized workspace, the Platform:6 is a colossal six-foot expanse that can be expanded even further to accommodate high-end gaming rigs, complete streaming setups, and a profusion of accessories. The uniqueness of the Platform:6 lies in its multitude of configurations, each offering a diverse selection of features, including motorized height adjustments, a choice of surface materials, and an expandable rail system. The process of curating one’s ideal Platform:6 is seamlessly facilitated through CORSAIR’s user-friendly online configurator, which caters to both individual needs and spatial requirements. Alternatively, users can explore carefully curated bundles that promise unmatched value.

A testament to foresight and adaptability, the Platform:6 is crafted with the future in mind, mirroring the evolution of its user’s needs. A modular rail system forms the core of the Platform:6’s design, boasting a universal aluminum T-channel crossbar, side rails, and top-mounted rail. This ingenious arrangement renders the Platform:6 compatible with an extensive range of aftermarket attachments and accessories, inviting users to personalize their workspace with unprecedented creativity. Furthermore, CORSAIR celebrates user ingenuity by facilitating the incorporation of self-designed 3D printed accessories, resulting in an experience that’s truly one-of-a-kind.

For those who prioritize ergonomic convenience, the Platform:6 offers a variant equipped with dual electric motors that silently and swiftly adjust the desk’s height. This dynamic feature, controlled via an LCD readout controller, accommodates preferred positions with memory presets for a truly tailored experience. The desk’s surface can be chosen in either a classic dark walnut-stained, environmentally friendly rubberwood or a robust black laminate, adding an element of aesthetic choice to the mix.

No detail is left unattended in the Platform:6’s pursuit of an elevated workspace experience. Supplied dual monitor arms facilitate effortless dual-monitor setup, while an expansive CORSAIR RapidRoute wire management tray conceals cables and even power strips. Furthermore, an in-desk storage cubby, complete with USB Type-A and Type-C charging ports, harmonizes wire management and small item storage. The result is a space that not only accommodates the complexity of high-powered setups but does so while maintaining a clutter-free aesthetic.

The pivotal driving force behind the Platform:6’s conception is expandability—a quality that manifests through a plethora of add-ons that empower users to fashion their perfect desk. Should the expansive six-foot width fall short, side extensions can be effortlessly attached, offering an additional 30cm x 70cm of space, complemented by optional hanging pegboards. The Elgato Multi Frame, an exclusive top-mounted pegboard designed for the Platform:6, introduces even more mounting opportunities, enabling the organization of gear and accessories. Adapters tailored for Elgato Multi-Mount and Flex Arm products seamlessly integrate Key Lights, cameras, or microphones into the rail system.

At the forefront of this innovation stands the Platform:6 Creator Edition, the flagship variant of the desk, complete with adjustable height functionality and a rubberwood surface. As the Platform:6 gears up for its official launch, users can anticipate the exhilarating prospect of designing and purchasing customized configurations through the online configurator. The unveiling of the Platform:6 promises a new era of workspace refinement, an experience that blends cutting-edge features with an innate understanding of ergonomic principles. As we count down to its official launch later this year, the Platform:6 beckons us to witness how it elevates the workspace to an echelon of distinction.

Orange County, CA – December 2022 – Forza Tek offers a range of computer services including Cyber security solutions, software consulting and software development services.

Forza Tek provides a broad variety of IT services and advice, including the creation and deployment of business applications as well as the setting up and upkeep of business infrastructure, so management can concentrate on expanding the company.

Cyber Security

Computer security, cyber security, or information technology security (IT security) is the protection of computer systems and networks from malicious actors who may cause unauthorized information disclosure, theft or damage to hardware, software, or data, as well as disruption or misdirection of the services they provide.

Because of the increased reliance on computer systems, the Internet, and wireless network standards such as Bluetooth and Wi-Fi, as well as the proliferation of smart devices such as smartphones, televisions, and the various devices that comprise the Internet of things, the field has grown in importance (IoT). Due to the complexity of information systems and the societies they support, cyber security is one of the most significant challenges of the modern world.

Software Development

The process of conceiving, specifying, designing, programming, documenting, testing, and bug fixing that goes into creating and maintaining applications, frameworks, or other software components is known as software development. Software development entails writing and maintaining source code, but it also encompasses all processes from the conception of the desired software to its final manifestation, typically in a planned and structured process. [1] Research, new development, prototyping, modification, reuse, re-engineering, maintenance, and any other activities that result in software products are also included in software development.

Technology Services

Technology services are delivered in the IT industry in accordance with business or enterprise requirements. Services range from basic Internet access to enterprise application software (EA). Internet service providers (ISP), application service providers (ASP), cloud providers, and developers are examples of technology service providers.

• Software development, integration, and maintenance are examples of technology services.
• Hardware Integration, management, and upkeep of networks
• Information safety (IS)
• Management consultants in information technology
• Services for mobile phones
• Web-based applications

Software Consulting