Flash Drive Day

Flash Drive Day 

Flash Drive Day is celebrated on April 5th annually to commemorate the patent date for the first USB Flash Disk. The invention of the flash drive revolutionized how we store digital data and made it easier to manage than ever before. The flash drive, also known as the USB (universal serial bus) allows users to store photos, transfer files and upload information in an easier way than ever before. Flash drives are also helping to make the world a better place. Without flash drives we would not have virtual classrooms. They are able to provide information to almost every part of the world especially third world countries. In these third world countries books are often considered contraband, and by having them on flash drives they are not only able to hide them but able to read them and have greater access to the world around them. Movies, music, and radio are also downloaded onto flash drives and used to help people gain more information about the world around them that they may have been denied originally. Flash drives also play a role in homeless communities by allowing them to have access to resumes, which may be a lifeline to a better situation for many people. 

How to Celebrate Flash Drive Day

The easiest way to celebrate Flash Drive Day is to donate old flash drives and other technology to those in need. Here are some tips to consider before you make your donation:

What to do before donation: Look at the age of what you’re donating. Anything under three years can be refurbished, anything older will be recycled for parts. Also, make sure you clear the hard drive to protect your own privacy. Finally, makes sure all additional materials with the tech that you’re donating are included in your donation such as keyboards and manuals. 

Where to donate: Many companies and communities have recycling programs already in place. Some companies have collaborated to make the recycling process easier. For example; Dell and Goodwill have been working together since 2004 to collect more than 96 million pounds of recyclable electronics. All you have to do is take your unwanted electronic device to any Goodwill in any condition. Broken monitors are even accepted as long as it is sealed securely and easily labeled. After you donate Goodwill will use your recycled tech to benefit local communities. For those who may not have technology to donate but still would like to make a contribution, there is eBay Giving Works. You can auction your used goods on eBay and then donate as much of the final sale as you wish to the charity of your choice. 

Whether you use your flash drive for pictures, files, or maybe nothing at all, today is a day to appreciate this small piece of tech and all the good it has done us. Celebrate this day by donating used technology or maybe buying a few flash drives you never know when you might need extra storage for an important file.