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Many USB Jump Drives include a security program that permits the
user to password protect files from unauthorized access. This,
however, can cause problems on public access computers (libraries,
computer labs, computer classrooms, etc.).
The following suggestions may alleviate some frustrations. (These
guidelines are general in nature; consult your manufacturer’s
product documentation for specific instructions on the use of their
security software.)
- The first time you use your USB device, if it automatically
tries to install its security software, cancel out of it (unless
you are on your own personal computer and have familiarized
yourself with the instructions for configuring the security
software).
- Some security software allows you to partition or divide your
USB’s memory into a Secure and Non-Secure area. If you decide to
install the security software or have already done so, make sure
you allocate memory to a secure and non-secure area. If you are
going to use the device on public computers, save the file to the
non-secure area.
Working on Public computers:
If your USB device is not recognized (which should automatically
occur on a computer running Windows XP) try the following:
- Try a different USB port. Some devices require more power than
the computer’s front USB ports provide.
- Look for the device in My Computer and Windows Explorer
(right-click on the start button and select explore).
- Try rebooting the computer; if that does not work try another
computer.
- Again, if a pop-up window appears asking or attempting to
install the security software, cancel it. You will not have
sufficient administrative rights to install the software on public
networked computers. [
print a very short version on cards]
- If you had formatted the USB device on a MAC, try reformatting
it on a PC. (PC formatted devices can be read on both type
machines.) Formatting will erase all of your data!
above
information last modified 11/22/06
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