I love my flash drives. I keep one on my key chain and another plugged in the USB port of my PC to backup important files as I work on them.

When traveling, and know I’ll have access to a computer, I back up my best digital images on the drives. These little wonders also store videos, music and document files.

Flash drives are small, pocket-sized versions of a computer hard drive. They are manufactured by a number of companies with names such as Cruzer, JumpDrive, Traveler and Attache.

Flash drives are compatible with computers and notebooks running Windows 98SE and higher, and with many Apple computers that have a USB port.

According to some manufacturer’s specifications, flash drives can keep data for ten years.

Edit photos and more from a flash drive

Some flash drives include U3 smart technology, which allows you to securely carry files and software. Plug the U3 drive into a PC and run applications, surf the net, send email, edit photos and more. U3 software and applications take space on the drive so be sure to buy one with enough capacity for your needs.

Print from a flash drive

A growing number of photo Kiosks accept flash drives. Bring your digital photos to a store, insert the drive into the USB port, do any last minute cropping on the touch screen and then print. Couldn’t be easier!