Chances are, you’re using one right now as you read this. If not, then as a regular PC user it is no doubt something that you likely use very often. Yes, you are correct to think that I am referring about the humble ol’ USB port – the input often taken for granted by those who grew up in the digital time. USB was first envisioned in 1996 but computers didn’t always integrate them. In fact, they only started to become a standardized method of input in 1998 when the 1.1 version was released upon the market.

USB (Universal Serial Bus) is perfect for connection because unlike serial and parallel jacks, they supply power toperipherals and therefore, no extra power is required in order to get PC components such as mice, keyboards and webcams (etc) to work. Because so many peripherals use USB connection today, a lost input cable for a device is less of a problem than ever, as these are often interchangeable.

If you do not take care then USB input ports can easily become damaged and/or broken beyond repair. This can cause big issues when your laptops only input are its USB slots. Follow these precautions to ensure that your ports continue to work in perfect order for as long as possible:

? Take great care in order not to knock the USB input jack of any computer hardware while it is connected to your computer as this can bend or snap the endpoints of your device or host (the computer which powers the device).

? Using a can of compressed air can help to quickly and safely remove debris from your ports. There are even USB shaped devices designed to clean inside ports which are available on the market if cash is no restriction.

? If you do not have a can of compressed air, than you can keep the USB ports of your computer/laptop clean using a dry cotton bud. Dust and dirt can interfere with the connection between the host and device. As a safety precaution DO THIS WITH THE COMPUTER’S POWER OFF!

? Using a cotton bud on USB endpoints of your peripheral is also a good idea.

Tags: , , , ,