Data Storage

A wide variety of data storage devices are available for laptops. They range in size from postage-stamp memory cards to external hard drives the size of a video cassette. More details on these storage options can be found in Chapter 9, "Hard Disk Storage," and Chapter 10, "Removable Storage."

One data storage option that deserves mention in this chapter is the tiny USB storage fob or memory key. These popular devices are quickly replacing floppy disks as the most practical way to transfer data between two unconnected computers. Most USB storage fobs are the size of a wine-bottle cork. They consist of nothing more than a USB connector and a memory chip, ranging in capacity from 16MB to 4GB or more. The cost is generally inexpensive compared to carrying around an external hard drive.

At least one of these handy storage fobs should be in every laptop carrying case. In fact, even if you don't bring a laptop with you on a trip, you might want to bring along a fob loaded with some important documents in case you come across a desktop somewhere along the way.