what type of technology is used to operate a flash drive?

Answer 1

It is basically a hardrive, that has a built in driver that is compatible with ntfs systems, so it can be read. Older. and other operating systems may need the driver installed manually, from the manufacturers site.
If you really want to know the ins and outs...here is a link...with extensive information.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/USB_flash_drive

Its an older document, as jumpdrives (flashdrives) are alot bigger now, but accurate non the less.

Answer 2

try this site, http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/USB_flash_drive