Quantity: Only one device is needed per student.  Work from multiple classes can be saved on a single device and it is best if the media is dedicated for school-work only.
Gaming flash media is not permitted for school use.
 

Size: Typical homework will fit on nearly any size media but 1 GB or larger is recommended if video and large multimedia projects will be transferred between home and school. When making your selection, be aware that these drop in price (and thus in value) rather quickly.

Damage: USB media devices are sensitive and sometimes go bad for no obvious reason. They are also easily damaged if not stored and handled correctly.  Google Docs can be used as an emergency backup. Remember that since flash drives may stop working at any time and network connections can be disrupted, it is always best to keep copies of your files at home and/or on the school server.
 

Loss: These small devices are easily lost and stray USB media are found nearly every day.  These end up in the lost and found if they are not identified properly.

Identification:  Please do all of the following.

• Write your name in permanent ink on the outside of the media

• Create a file on it.  Name it your full first and last name.

• From your home computer where you have access to administrator privileges: rename the device to your last name.  Your Technology, LA/SS or homeroom teacher may also be able to help you with this.

Make them more visible : Lanyards help students notice when they have left devices plugged into a computer. These can be looped in a notebook ring or attached to a pencil pouch as an extra reminder.
 

Configuration: All non-school related files and software including file security and vendor utilities should be removed from the device before bringing it to school. Vendors may charge more for devices with these features yet they can interfere with their use. Student accounts have restricted access and some USB devices will not operate correctly when they have these features.  To remove preinstalled software, you may need to download special tools from the USB media vendor website.  
 

 Special reminder for 'Hand-me-down' media: Using an older or smaller capacity device is sufficient for most students. When doing this, please remember to delete all personal and professional files. There have been a significant number of 'lost' devices that have contained proprietary documents and other sensitive files from parent or guardian workplaces.