quick flat screen monitor question

[cdmjr]

I just got a new Dell 1708FP Monitor, and it has a blue cable to connect to the tower, AND a USB Cable. I had an older Dell flat panel, but it didn't have this. Is this USB cable necessary? And what does it do?

 

[freestyler105]

It's for the USB ports on the side of the monitor. If you don't use those, then there's no harm in not using the USB cable.