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 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.

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 is 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 account, you can log in and download those images to your computer.

However, many users do not use iCloud and are looking for an alternative. Here is an option that is easy, automatic, and far less expensive than maintaining an iCloud subscription.

The Qubii Pro is a backup device that works while you charge your phone. There is nothing to configure and no settings to manage. The Qubii Pro holds a microSD card for storage and connects between your iPhone cable and your charging block.

Photo and video transfer from your iPhone to storage happens automatically. Qubii scans your photo and video library and backs up any file not already present on the microSD card. The first backup can take a while because everything must be copied. The total time depends on how many photos and videos you have. On future connections, only new files are backed up.

Since most people charge their phones overnight, the backup process happens without disrupting normal usage.

Apple provides 5GB of free iCloud storage, but that space fills up quickly with high-resolution photos and video. As shown below, iCloud pricing seems inexpensive at first, but the monthly cost increases as storage needs grow.

• 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)
• Apple One Family plan ($22.95/month) includes 200GB of iCloud storage
• Apple One Premier plan ($32.95/month) includes 2TB of iCloud storage

Apple does a very good job of encouraging users to upgrade storage plans, so there is a high likelihood that monthly costs will exceed $20 USD over time (based on pricing in 2023).

There are a few important limitations to understand with Qubii:

• You cannot choose specific photos or videos to back up; everything is included
• If a file is deleted from the microSD card but still exists on your phone, it will be backed up again
• The solution backs up photos and videos only, not contacts or documents
• If you replace the microSD card, the entire backup process starts over

The last point above is important.

CORSAIR®, known for high-performance gaming peripherals and PC components, has introduced the CORSAIR Platform:6, a modular desk designed for gamers, creators, and professionals who want a more adaptable and ergonomic workspace.

Backed by decades of experience in desktop hardware and accessories, CORSAIR and its subsidiary Elgato designed the Platform:6 to reflect how people actually use modern workstations. The desk combines premium materials, extensive customization options, and practical features such as adjustable height, structured cable management, and modular accessories. The result is a workstation designed to evolve alongside its user.

The Platform:6 spans six feet in width and can be expanded further to support high-end gaming systems, streaming gear, and professional equipment. Users can choose from different configurations that include motorized height adjustment, multiple surface materials, and a flexible rail system. Desk configurations can be built through CORSAIR’s online configurator or selected from pre-built bundles.

At the core of the Platform:6 design is a modular rail system built around an aluminum T-channel structure. This system supports a wide range of accessories, including both CORSAIR components and third-party attachments. CORSAIR also encourages experimentation by supporting custom 3D-printed accessories, giving users freedom to tailor their setup beyond off-the-shelf parts.

For users who value ergonomics, select versions of the Platform:6 include dual electric motors for smooth height adjustment. The controller features an LCD display and memory presets for storing preferred positions. Surface options include dark walnut-stained rubberwood and durable black laminate, offering both visual and practical flexibility.

Practical details are integrated throughout the design. Included dual monitor arms support multi-display setups, while the CORSAIR RapidRoute cable management tray hides cables and power strips. An integrated storage cubby includes USB Type-A and USB Type-C charging ports, helping keep frequently used devices within reach without cluttering the desktop.

Expandability is the defining idea behind the Platform:6. Side extensions can be added to increase surface area, and optional hanging pegboards allow further organization. The Elgato Multi Frame, a top-mounted pegboard designed specifically for the Platform:6, adds more mounting flexibility for accessories. Adapters also allow Elgato Multi-Mount and Flex Arm products to integrate cleanly into the desk’s rail system.

The Platform:6 Creator Edition represents the flagship configuration, combining adjustable height with a rubberwood surface and full modular capability. With online customization and modular expansion at its core, the Platform:6 is positioned as a long-term workspace solution rather than a fixed piece of furniture.

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 guidance, including the creation and deployment of business applications and the setup and maintenance of business infrastructure, allowing management to focus on growing 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 standards such as Bluetooth and Wi-Fi, as well as the proliferation of smart devices including smartphones, televisions, and the many devices that make up the Internet of Things (IoT), the field has grown in importance. 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

Software development is the process of conceiving, specifying, designing, programming, documenting, testing, and fixing bugs involved in creating and maintaining applications, frameworks, or other software components. It includes writing and maintaining source code, but also covers the entire lifecycle from concept to deployment, typically following a planned and structured process. Research, new development, prototyping, modification, reuse, re-engineering, maintenance, and other activities that result in software products are also part of 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. Internet service providers (ISP), application service providers (ASP), cloud providers, and developers are examples of technology service providers.

• Software development, integration, and maintenance
• Hardware integration and network management
• Information security (IS)
• IT management consulting
• Mobile services
• Web-based applications

Software Consulting

Software consulting is the practice of analyzing a company’s software needs and developing technology solutions to help the organization operate smoothly. A consultant may review how your team uses software, identify gaps, recommend improvements, and advise on software projects or technology investments. Common responsibilities include:

• Create a website: Advising or leading teams to build high-quality, user-friendly websites.
• Create a mobile app: Guiding the development of functional mobile applications that improve customer engagement.
• Create CRM systems: Assisting with updating or improving customer relationship management and e-commerce systems to enhance performance and usability.

Give your company the impact it needs. Focusing on critical business functions can increase productivity, security, and efficiency. Forza Tek brings 15+ years of experience in IT and cyber security solutions.

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