Looks like no one’s replied in a while. To start the conversation again, simply ask a new question.

robhall53 Author

Level 1

0 points

can I use a usb drive with my iPad2?

My job demands that I carry data on a usb thumb drive and it is infiuriating that I cannot connect it to my iPad.

Or can I...?

iPad 2

Posted on Jan 25, 2012 11:59 AM

25 replies

Geointx

Level 1

0 points

Feb 16, 2012 12:05 PM in response to robhall53

I just got a Hammacher Schlemmer online catalog and it has an iPad USB Flash Drive that operates wirelessly, they say. $159+/- . Haven't tried it yet. I came on here to see if anyone knows anything about it. Here's what they say.

www.hammacher.com

"The Only iPad USB Flash Drive.

This is the only USB flash drive that wirelessly streams movies, music, photographs, and documents to an iPad. The size of a pack of gum, it accepts an included 8 GB SD card (supports up to 32 GB SD cards) automatically sharing files wirelessly up to 150' away, eliminating an iPad's need to dock with a computer or use e-mail to transfer files. Providing over five hours of stand-alone operation, it recharges via USB from any computer without the need for software, which also provides a convenient means of file loading and continuous file sharing. Up to six wireless devices can access the flash drive simultaneously using a free downloaded app, including iPhones, Android, and Windows smartphones. A digital camera's SD card can be inserted; holiday pictures and videos taken at family gatherings can be immediately accessed by family members. With built-in data encryption, it provides secure transfers between similarly configured devices. 3 1/2" L x 2" W x 1/2" D. (1 1/2 oz.)

rschiwal

Level 1

0 points

Sep 13, 2012 6:18 PM in response to robhall53

The best solution I know of is to use an airport extreme. The USB is for shared USB drives.

Chris CA

Level 10

82,434 points

Sep 13, 2012 8:35 PM in response to rschiwal

rschiwal wrote:

The best solution I know of is to use an airport extreme. The USB is for shared USB drives.

So how do you use it with your iPad?

rschiwal

Level 1

0 points

Sep 15, 2012 12:15 PM in response to Chris CA

With a file browser app

Chris CA

Level 10

82,434 points

Sep 15, 2012 4:25 PM in response to rschiwal

and then?

Why do you need an AirPort Express?

Many other routers allow USB & ethernet drives.

rschiwal

Level 1

0 points

Sep 15, 2012 11:50 PM in response to Chris CA

I was trying to placate the Mac fanatics.

Actually, it's because Mac has, or had a handy airport utility that make managing airport a snap, including USB drive sharing. From what I've seen of the new version, it's not all that helpful. They traded functionality for looks. (Of course, I'm a geek network administrator who preferrs working from the command line.)

You don't NEED an airport base station, but it should integrate more readily.

BMW-KTM

Level 1

11 points

Sep 17, 2012 5:19 PM in response to robhall53

Rob, it might be beneficial if you explained what kind of data you are referring to.

ie: what kind of files? If you are referring to Office docs then you are in luck. Kind of.

I routinely store Word, Excel and PowerPoint files on my iPhone for business purposes. I can also store PDF files as well. They are associated with an app called Documents To Go which is also available for the iPad. The files still have to be synced (using the app rather than iTunes) but once the files are on your device you can edit, save, send to a bluetooth printer, send via email and you can also create these same files from scratch and save them to the device. There is also a way to transfer existing files to your device but it's a little time consuming. You can open the files from your email (if someone emails them to you) using the app and then save the files to the device.

Chris CA

Level 10

82,434 points

Sep 17, 2012 5:25 PM in response to rschiwal

Actually, it's because Mac has, or had a handy airport utility that make managing airport a snap, including USB drive sharing. From what I've seen of the new version, it's not all that helpful. They traded functionality for looks. (Of course, I'm a geek network administrator who preferrs working from the command line.)

You don't NEED an airport base station, but it should integrate more readily.

Can still use AirPort Utility 5.6 as well as 6 but you cannot use AirPrint to print from an iPad to a USB connected printer on the AirPort Epxress.

BMW-KTM

Level 1

11 points

Sep 17, 2012 5:33 PM in response to robhall53

I also found this ad on one of the links provided by someone else. A thumb drive they claim works on the iPhone and iPad. Might be worth looking into.

http://www.hypershop.com/iFlashDrive-by-HyperDrive-s/210.htm

Oct 26, 2014 6:29 AM in response to robhall53

Take a look at the I-USBKey for iPad. It's finally possible to use a USB drive with the iPad. Yay!

can I use a usb drive with my iPad2?