Introduction
This manual provides essential instructions for the safe and efficient use of your Amazon Basics 128GB USB 3.1 Ultra Fast Flash Drive. Please read this manual thoroughly before using the product to ensure optimal performance and longevity.
Image: The Amazon Basics 128GB USB 3.1 Ultra Fast Flash Drive, black with a retractable connector and a loop for attachment.
Product Features
- High-Speed Data Transfer: USB 3.1 interface for fast transmission of videos, photos, music, and other files.
- Generous Storage Capacity: 128 GB, capable of storing approximately 32,000 12MP photos or 488 minutes of 1080P video.
- Fast Read/Write Speeds: Up to 130MB/s read speed and 30MB/s write speed, significantly faster than USB 2.0 drives.
- Retractable Design: Protects the USB connector when not in use.
- Durable Construction: Utilizes high-quality NAND FLASH memory chips for data security.
- Key Hole: For added security and portability.
Image: Visual representation of the flash drive's features, including storage capacity examples, data security, and read/write speeds.
Setup
- Insert the Flash Drive: Gently slide the retractable connector out and insert the flash drive into an available USB port on your computer or compatible device. For optimal speeds, use a USB 3.1 Gen 1 / USB 3.0 port. The drive is backwards compatible with USB 2.0 ports, but at lower speeds.
- Automatic Recognition: Most operating systems (Windows, macOS, Linux) will automatically detect and install the necessary drivers for the flash drive. You should see the drive appear in "My Computer" (Windows) or "Finder" (macOS).
- Initial Formatting (Optional but Recommended for Large Files):
The drive comes pre-formatted with FAT32, which is compatible with both Windows and macOS. However, FAT32 has a limitation where individual files larger than 4GB cannot be stored. If you plan to transfer files larger than 4GB, it is recommended to reformat the drive to exFAT or NTFS.
- For Windows: Right-click on the drive in "My Computer" or "This PC," select "Format," choose "exFAT" or "NTFS" from the File system dropdown, and click "Start."
- For macOS: Open "Disk Utility," select the flash drive, click "Erase," choose "ExFAT" or "APFS" (for macOS only) as the format, and click "Erase."
Warning: Formatting the drive will erase all data on it. Ensure you back up any important files before proceeding.
Image: The Amazon Basics USB 3.1 Flash Drive connected to the side port of a laptop.
Operating Instructions
- Transferring Files:
- Copy and Paste: Locate the files or folders you wish to transfer on your computer. Right-click and select "Copy." Navigate to the flash drive's folder, right-click in an empty space, and select "Paste."
- Drag and Drop: Open the folder containing your files and the flash drive's window side-by-side. Click and drag the desired files or folders from your computer to the flash drive's window.
- Accessing Files: Double-click on the flash drive icon in "My Computer" or "Finder" to open it. You can then browse, open, or run files directly from the drive.
- Understanding Speed: The drive offers read speeds up to 130MB/s and write speeds up to 30MB/s. Actual speeds may vary based on the host device (USB 3.1/3.0 vs. USB 2.0 port), file size, file type, and other system factors.
Image: A graphic demonstrating the "Ultra Fast" data transfer capabilities, highlighting speeds up to 15 times faster than USB 2.0 drives.
Maintenance and Care
- Safe Removal: Always safely eject the flash drive from your computer before physically removing it.
- Windows: Click the "Safely Remove Hardware and Eject Media" icon in the system tray, then select the flash drive.
- macOS: Drag the flash drive icon from the desktop or Finder sidebar to the Trash, or right-click and select "Eject."
Caution: Removing the drive without safely ejecting it can lead to data corruption or damage to the drive.
- Physical Protection: Use the retractable mechanism to protect the USB connector from dust and damage when not in use.
- Storage: Store the flash drive in a cool, dry place away from extreme temperatures, direct sunlight, and strong magnetic fields.
- Cleaning: If necessary, gently wipe the exterior of the drive with a soft, dry, lint-free cloth. Do not use liquid cleaners or solvents.
- Data Backup: While the drive is designed for reliability, it is always recommended to keep important data backed up on multiple storage devices.
Image: A hand placing the compact Amazon Basics USB 3.1 Flash Drive into a jeans pocket, illustrating its portability.
Troubleshooting
- Drive not recognized by computer:
- Try inserting the drive into a different USB port on your computer.
- Test the drive on another computer to rule out a computer-specific issue.
- Ensure the drive is fully inserted into the USB port.
- Check your computer's Device Manager (Windows) or System Information (macOS) to see if the drive is listed, even if not assigned a drive letter.
- Slow transfer speeds:
- Ensure you are using a USB 3.1 Gen 1 or USB 3.0 port on your host device. USB 2.0 ports will result in significantly slower speeds.
- Transferring many small files can be slower than transferring one large file of the same total size.
- Other background processes on your computer might be affecting transfer speeds.
- The type and quality of the USB cable (if an extension is used) can also impact speed.
- Cannot transfer files larger than 4GB:
- The drive is likely formatted as FAT32. You need to reformat the drive to exFAT or NTFS to support files larger than 4GB. Refer to the "Setup" section for instructions.
- Data corruption or errors:
- Always safely eject the drive before removing it.
- Avoid physical shock or bending the drive while it is connected or in use.
- Run a disk check utility on your operating system (e.g., "Error checking" in Windows, "First Aid" in Disk Utility on macOS).
Specifications
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Brand | Amazon Basics |
| Model Number | LS21USB128G1 |
| Memory Storage Capacity | 128 GB |
| Connectivity Technology | USB 3.1 Gen 1 (USB 3.0 compatible) |
| Read Speed | Up to 130 MB/s |
| Write Speed | Up to 30 MB/s |
| Color | Black |
| Product Dimensions (LxWxH) | 2.24 x 0.79 x 0.53 inches |
| Item Weight | 0.32 ounces |
| UPC | 840095889711 |
Note: Actual usable storage capacity may be less than indicated due to formatting and system files. Performance speeds are based on internal tests and may vary.
Image: A comparison table illustrating the approximate number of 12MP photos or minutes of 1080p video that can be stored on 128GB and 256GB flash drives.
Warranty and Support
For warranty information and customer support, please refer to the documentation included with your purchase or visit the official Amazon Basics support page.
You can also find more information and contact support through the Amazon Basics Store.
