Iomega's thrown its hat into the USB portable storage market with the Mini USB drive, bringing with it the company's proprietary ActiveDisk technology.
Iomega, better known for its line of Zip drives and media, has recently released its Mini USB Drive in 64MB and 128MB sizes. This key-sized storage device plugs into any existing USB ports and allows users to access up to 128MB, more than a single floppy disk can carry. It also sports Iomega's ActiveDisk technology, a smart feature that automatically detects and launches a program stored within the drive without having the user to install it in the computer first.
Only USB 1.1
Like most USB key drives, this finger-sized unit is extremely compact at 13.97 x 19.69 x 5.72mm and weighs only 15g, but neither the weight nor dimensions are record-breaking due to the advent of smaller key drives such as the IBM Memory Key.
The Iomega's clamshell cap snaps over the USB connector to protect the drive during non- operation, while a maneuverable sliding key ring attached to the drive's main body makes it convenient for users to attach the device to keys and handles. Security features include encryption and password protection offered via the included encryption software, but the drive lacks a write-protect switch to prevent accidental erasure of data.
Iomega says the Mini USB Drive is optimized for only USB 1.1 performance, but will also function when connected to Hi-Speed USB (or USB 2.0) ports. A transfer rate of 1Mbps is average for a USB thumb storage device but users can expect faster throughput speeds with Sony's new USB 2.0 Micro Vault storage device because of its 480Mbps bandwidth support.
Iomega also claims that the device operates on a purely plug-and-play basis. Current operating systems such as Windows XP with its in-built USB support will benefit from this feature, but users still running on earlier operating systems like Windows 98 will have to install the appropriate drives before plugging in the Mini USB Drive.
ActiveDisk support
As with its Zip drive storage format, Iomega's latest storage contraption supports the company's ActiveDisk technology. This feature allows any ActiveDisk application stored inside the Mini USB Drive to launch automatically upon connection with a computer system, helping users to bypass the routine installation procedure. According to Iomega, this program will run specifically on the Zip drive itself and not on the computer: Disconnect the drive and the application will cease not only to function, it will not even leave a trace on the host computer.
Iomega provides a host of applications and utilities that are downloadable from its Web site for registered users: These include the proprietary Mini Lock software which protects data stored on the USB drive with password encryption, and Mini Control Panel that offers improved file and data management features for users. A one-year limited warranty is standard.
The 64MB and 128MB versions of the Mini USB Drive are available in stores now and retail for AU$139 and AU$199, respectively. In addition, the company will be introducing drives with larger storage capacities (256MB and beyond) later next year.
Iomega Mini 64MB USB Drive
Company: Iomega
Price: AU$139 (64MB)
Distributor: Selected resellers
Phone: 02 8223 9140
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