Does data stored in a USB key deteriorate, if so how long can i keep information ?

Answer 1

All data stored electronically will eventually deteriorate, whether that's on a HDD, a USB memory stick, CD/DVD or whatever. However, it's almost certain that you will deteriorate before it does.

It's best to keep backups of important information on two or even three different mediums. But that's mostly because it's more likely that your data storage device could be stolen.

Answer 2

A USB key is good for about 10,000 write cycles (some people will claim 100,000, but it's my data, so I like to be conservative), but millions of read cycles. If you're talking about just keeping it on a shelf, the only problem is degradation due to cosmic rays, and these days the chips are pretty well protected from that, so the data should be fine for many years.

I'd worry a lot more about losing or damaging it.

Answer 3

The ability of a USB to store info will deteriorate with the number of re-writes. It is probably a few hundred thoisand times but it won't last for ever. Have you tried the new tiny external usb hard-drives? I think they are 2.5inch drives and 160gb for about £50

Answer 4

You're more likely to break the USB Key by dropping it, running over it with your chair wheels and then treading on it while trying to find it on the floor, than you are to lose data from deterioration

Answer 5

Yes it could "deteriorate". Flash memory basically works on electrical charges running through them enabling them to be seen as 1's and 0's. Any instability in voltage higher than 8 volts can affect your flash memory.

Real world translation: It can! How long can it keep your data? As long as you don't have anything messing it up...it could last a lot longer than data burned to a CD.

Answer 6

The information will not deteriorate through normal use.

Answer 7

You'd have to try hard to get information to deteriorate on one of them.
In theory if they were exposed to a STRONG electromagnetic field you may cause some issues.
It practically has an indefinite storage life.

Answer 8

Put you will on it, it will sureley last a lot longer than you and all of us out here as well should be good fo years!

Answer 9

When you are 136 it will have deteoriated, so make sure you make a backup.

Answer 10

Lets just say that you will die before it does.