How to Install a USB Device

USB devices are made to be conveniently installed or removed while the computer is running. With their small size and fairly large capacity compared to a floppy diskette, USB devices also allow the means to transport many files in a pocket. Most USB devices have a common interface, allowing them to be used on almost any computer.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

1. Open the package and remove the device.

2. Connect the device to an available USB port. Devices are made to connect only one way. Ensure that the device is properly positioned before inserting. If there is more than a slight resistance, remove and check the position again.

3. Install the device driver if one came with the USB device. Windows should find the device and either install a driver or ask for driver media. Once the device has been installed, a new drive letter will be assigned to it.

4. Remove the installation CD or other installation media.

5. Restart the computer to ensure smooth operation.

Tips & Warnings

• Forcing the device into the port the wrong way will cause a malfunction that might result in the device and/or the port having to be replaced.
• After installation, the USB device can be used as a portable storage area that can be moved from computer to computer. This alleviates the necessity of burning a file to CD or DVD for transport.