SanDisk warns on USB drive threat

SanDisk has warned that IT managers are unaware of the extent to which unsecured flash drives are being brought into their organisations, backing this with a new study of corporate end-users and IT executives.

The study found that 77 percent corporate end-users surveyed have admitted to using personal flash drives for work-related purposes. However, when asked to estimate what percentage of the workforce uses personal flash drives, corporate IT respondents said only 35 percent.

Users meanwhile admitted that data files most likely to be copied to a personal flash drives includes customer records (25 percent), financial information (17 percent), business plans (15 percent), employee records (13 percent), marketing plans (13 percent), intellectual property (6 percent), and source code (6 percent).

The survey highlights that due to the highly portable nature of USB flash drivers, they represent a significant risk of data loss for enterprises. Approximately one in ten (12 percent) of corporate end users reported finding a flash drive in a public place. Additionally, when asked to pick the three most likely actions they would take if they found a flash drive in a public place, 55 percent indicated they would view the data.

Kingston shows secure USB stick

The evolution of USB sticks from detested security hazard to data respectability has continued with the announcement of a new product certified to stringent U.S. government levels of security.

Memory giant Kingston has announced the Data Traveler 'Blackbox', which features 256-bit AES hardware-based encryption compliant with the tough FIPS (Federal Information Processing Standard) 140-2 Level 2 standard.

Because the drive comes with hardware-based encryption, all data on the Blackbox is always encrypted, with the conversion to and from plain text being done transparently once the user has logged into the device.

Passwords are mandatory to use the drive, with complexity enforced to stop people using the name of their pet dog.

SanDisk to offer Fanfare TakeTV on USB

SanDisk is debuting a new product called, TakeTV, that comes with a USB flash drive and enables you to record TV shows from your PC and play them back on your TV. The video service accesses the Fanfare network that offers premium TV shows for $1.99 per download, and $4.99 for premium movies.

There is also a free download section that is ad-supported and currently has 85 titles in the Fanfare movie bank.

TakeTV comes as a package with a USB drive, remote control, and a small dock that allows you to hook it up on your TV. The PC-TV dual retails for $99.99 and comes with 4 gigabyte of memory. If you want larger space, the 8 gigabyte model is available for $149.99.

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TakeTV is probably the only serious rival against Apple's iTunes right now, but with the gadget ability to enjoy your downloads on your TV instead of your computer.

Fanfare is mostly made up of CBS, Showtime, ABC and a few others.

This does seem to be a trend while some networks have left iTunes to start their own download services. Fanfare is interesting with competitor networks working together on one distribution.

How To Run Linux From A USB Flash Drive

Most Linux distributions, such as Ubuntu, are capable of installing directly to a USB drive as if it were just another hard drive, but some distributions treat USB flash drive as a slightly special case. DSL, for instance, has an installer specifically for creating a USB-drive installation of the OS. Puppy can also install itself directly to a flash drive through the built-in Universal Installer utility. However, the default options did not work in my case; I had to explicitly use the "SysLinux" option in its installer menu to make the flash drive bootable.
 

In all cases, a USB flash drive will be mounted and recognized as a virtual SCSI device, such as /dev/sda or /dev/sdb. If you're performing the installation on a system that already has a hard drive present, pay close attention to the devices listed in the partition manager, and make sure you're installing to the right device. Otherwise you might accidentally wipe the hard drive -- although the device size should be a big tipoff! Also make sure that the installer makes the target device bootable and writes a proper master boot record to the drive, although most of the time this should happen automatically.

IronKey Unveils 8GB Version of Secure USB Drive

LOS ALTOS, Calif., May 1 /PRNewswire/ -- IronKey Inc., maker of the
world's most secure flash drive, announced today availability of the
8GB-capacity of its IronKey secure USB devices. IronKey brings
unprecedented mobile data convenience and security to individuals and
organizations with its rugged, waterproof and tamper resistant USB drives
that include always-on hardware encryption, strong authentication, portable
applications and ultra-fast memory. IronKey's cross platform capability and
remote policy enforcement enable IT to rapidly deploy in heterogeneous
environments with complete control.

     The 8GB model is the latest version in the IronKey product line that
currently includes 1GB, 2GB and 4GB options. All IronKey devices are easy
to use, and there is no need to install software or drivers. All user data
on an IronKey is encrypted with high-speed military-grade hardware
encryption. Unlike software-based encryption, this always-on protection
cannot be disabled, and is protected against cold-boot and brute force
attacks. If a thief tries to break into an IronKey and exceeds a
policy-determined number of failed login attempts, the IronKey Cryptochip
will lock out the encryption functions and securely erase all the encrypted
data with its patent-pending Flash Trash technology.
 

Corsair announces Flash Voyager Mini USB drive

Corsair has released the ultra-compact, US$29.99 Flash Voyager Mini, a 4GB rubberized USB flash drive. It’s enclosed in all- rubber housing to protect data against severe temperature, moisture, or physical abuse.

The Flash Voyager Mini is about one-third the size of regular USB drives, with a weight of 5.4 grams. It utilizes a cap-less retractable connector plug that opens with the flick of the thumb. Corsair achieved this ultra-compact design by using the latest Chip-on-Board (COB) technology, which allows the entire USB connector to be retracted into the drive.

Kingston Technology Launches DataTraveler BlackBox USB Flash Drive

London, UK—(3 July, 2008)Kingston Technology Company, Inc., the independent world leader in memory products, today announced the DataTraveler BlackBox in EMEA, a hardware-based encrypted and Federal Information Processing Standard (FIPS) validated USB Flash drive. The DataTraveler BlackBox is shipping immediately in 2GB, 4GB and 8GB capacities in the colours Black, Green and Red.

“We are very excited that our DataTraveler BlackBox met all federal requirements established by the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) in the US,” said Kirsty Miller, European Flash Product Marketing Manager, Kingston Technology. “Gaining FIPS 140-2 certification requires a validation process that meets federal requirements set by the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) in the United States, and the Communications Security Establishment of the Government of Canada. This is critical to European governments and corporations, as FIPS is a worldwide recognised standard and proof of the high security standards the DataTraveler BlackBox meets”.

The FIPS Level 2 standard requires the DataTraveler BlackBox to run a power-on self test which verifies that the encryption architecture is functioning each time it is plugged into a USB port, as well as to feature a tamperproof seal. Beyond the NIST certification, the DataTraveler BlackBox features 256-bit hardware-based AES encryption and is protected against water damage to depths of up to four feet (1, 22 metres). Additionally it is equipped with a titanium coated steel casing and an epoxy resin coating over the controller, making it a robust USB drive designed to withstand harsh working environments and operating conditions.

The DataTraveler BlackBox automatically locks down after ten consecutive failed password attempts, thus helping to prevent unauthorised access if the drive is lost, stolen or misplaced.

The DataTraveler Black Box is backed by a five-year warranty and 24/7 technical support.

Transcend India Introduces 4 GB JetFlash V90 Pizazz USB Flash Drive

Transcend Information Inc. has introduced its chic, ultra-compact USB flash drive, the 4 GB JetFlash V90 Pizazz (V90P). With its 4 GB memory capacity, stylish metal body and golden faceplate with an intricately embossed checkered pattern, Transcend said the V90P is truly a fashionable piece of technology.

Each JetFlash V90P comes with an attractive metal carrying chain, making it an ideal addition to any wallet or purse. Despite its small size, the V90P has up to 4 GB of storage space so users can easily transfer, store and share important files and data.

Austin Huang, Regional Head - Sales, SAARC and APAC, Transcend, said, "USB Flash drivers are ubiquitous these days because of their ease of use, small size, reliability and cost-effectiveness. However, there are very few manufacturers that can deliver a USB drive that the end users could proudly flaunt as a style statement. So, here is the latest offering from Transcend, the 4 GB JetFlash V90 Pizazz, a perfect example of harmony between technology, performance, looks and style quotients that will surely impress those who like their gadgets to be fashionable."

Measuring 33.8 (l) x 13.1 (w) x 4.8 (t) mm, the JetFlash V90P is designed for business travelers and people who need an elegant way to carry data effortlessly while on the move. Transcend said the JetFlash V90P combines fashion and technology to not only offer distinctive styling, but also perform brilliantly as an advanced storage device. Users can download and install Transcend's JetFlash elite data management tools onto the JetFlash drive to enhance mobile productivity.

JetFlash elite can turn the V90P into a key to automatically log on to Web site accounts, or even to temporarily lock the computer to prevent unauthorized access. Users can also browse their favorite bookmarked Web sites and check their email from any compatible computer with the Internet Favorites and Mobile Email functions.

Create Shortcuts on a USB Drive

Samer from the FreewareGenius weblog steps away from reviewing software to take a look at how to create shortcuts on your USB drive. The problem: You can’t create relative shortcuts in Windows, but since your USB drive letter can change each time you plug it in, shortcuts with full paths can break. Samer details how to use batch files to create shortcuts with relative paths, then goes a step further and converts the batch file to an EXE and gives it the same icon as the program it’s launching. In his example, he’s making a quick shortcut to Eject the USB drive using previously mentioned EjectUSB. If you’re a real thumb drive junky, you can use batch files to quick-launch your USB workspace as soon as you plug in your thumb drive.
 

USB Pen Drives: Storing and Transferring Data becomes Easy

A pen drive is a device which is used to transfer the data easily and with secrecy. It is a multi-purpose device which offers great efficiency and it is user-friendly too. Of all these, the USB Pen Drives are the most famous and efficient pen drives.

The name USB pen drive of these devices has been given to them due to their size and shape which gives the user an impression that it is a pen. However, actually it is just a pen-sized and a multi-utility device. These pen drives are very light weight objects. They usually weighs around 21 grams only and comes with an embedded memory of upto 8 GB, which helps it to react very quickly. They can also be distinguished by other name such as flash pen drives. These drives are specially designed without caps in order to eliminate every chance of misconception or misplacing. These pen drives are also popular as the fashion statement among the today's youth as they generally are worn around neck by young boys and girls, who in turn consider it as fashion statement. Even these pen drives are available in different colours.

Kingston USB Flash Receives FIPS 140-2 Certification

Kingston Technology Company announced the release of its first Federal Information Processing Standard (FIPS)-validated USB Flash drive, the DataTraveler BlackBox, available in 2GB, 4GB and 8GB capacities.

Gaining FIPS 140-2 certification requires a validation process that meets federal requirements set by the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST), and the Communications Security Establishment of the Government of Canada. This is critical because many governmental agencies in the United States and Canada mandate that sensitive “data at rest” (i.e., all information not in the network) must be encrypted with the FIPS 140-2 standard.

“We are very excited that our DataTraveler BlackBox met all federal requirements established by the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST),” said Nitin Malhotra, Kingston Country Manager, India.

“This certification, along with other enhanced security features, makes the DT BlackBox an ideal way to store and transport confidential documents with the utmost confidence that the data is secure.”
 

High Dexx USB Flash Drive introduced

After an array of innovative USB drivers, the latest to join the league is the High Dexx USB Flash Drive. The new High Dexx USB Flash Drive is a combination of highlighters and a USB flash drive, making it perfect for your office desk.

It consists of three highlighters in blue, yellow and green colors and an orange colored USB drive. This USB drive is available in various storage capacities like 128 MB, 256 MB, 512 MB, 1 GB and 2 GB.

Complementing your office desk, this High Dexx drive looks quite good. It can be also used as an USB extension hub for any device.

Kingston USB Flash Receives FIPS 140-2 Certification

Kingston Technology Company announced the release of its first Federal Information Processing Standard (FIPS)-validated USB Flash drivers, the DataTraveler BlackBox, available in 2GB, 4GB and 8GB capacities.
Gaining FIPS 140-2 certification requires a validation process that meets federal requirements set by the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST), and the Communications Security Establishment of the Government of Canada. This is critical because many governmental agencies in the United States and Canada mandate that sensitive “data at rest” (i.e., all information not in the network) must be encrypted with the FIPS 140-2 standard.

“We are very excited that our DataTraveler BlackBox met all federal requirements established by the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST),” said Nitin Malhotra, Kingston Country Manager, India.
“This certification, along with other enhanced security features, makes the DT BlackBox an ideal way to store and transport confidential documents with the utmost confidence that the data is secure.”

Software expands USB protocol analyser

New software verifies that a USB device under test complies with USB2.0 Specification Chapter 9, and - where applicable - Hub, HID and Mass Storage standard classes.

DeviceExaminer is a new software package provided free with USB Explorer EX260 Generator - the industry-standard USB Explorer260 line of protocol tools.

 

This new software verifies that a USB device under test complies with USB2.0 Specification Chapter 9, and - where applicable - Hub, HID and Mass Storage standard classes.

Used with the USB Explorer260 Generator, DeviceExaminer automatically discovers a USB device under test connected to the generator and displays its relevant information.

The device's class is detected and tests pertinent to that class are automatically loaded.

DeviceExaminer software then executes a suite of tests, monitors the resulting interactions, and generates a report detailing the pass/fail results of each individual test.

DeviceExaminer can also control a USB Explorer260 to record a trace of every executed test, in case further debugging is required.

If there are errors, the detected issues can be easily debugged using the analyser's extensive capabilities to examine the traces captured during test.

DeviceExaminer's convenient "run failures" feature accelerates the process of retesting after fixing bugs, by rerunning only the failed tests.
 

Hypertec encrypted USB Flash drive

Hypertec's DataSafe Business Edition (BE) line of USB Flash drivers uses encryption to protect data, with access via a password.

In fact, you cannot use the drive at all until you have set a password, ensuring that data is protected.

We looked at a sample of the 'rugged' version, which ships in a rubber casing. Other case styles are also available.

Its ruggedness was inadvertently put to the test when it was accidentally dropped into a mug of very hot liquid, but we are happy to report that the DataSafe BE appeared not to suffer and worked perfectly after being retrieved and dried out.

When connected to a PC, the DataSafe BE appears as two extra logical drives: the first holds the software executable required to access the second one, which simply appears as a volume zero bytes in size.

Double-clicking on the first volume. labelled 'Datasafe BE' on our system, brings up the password application.

SanDisk offers secure USB storage for Macs

A lack of Mac support has kept enterprises from being able to effectively support removable-media security policies across all their users, according to SanDisk. The Cruzer Enterprise can be initialized from either OS X or Windows.

The device, said to be the first of its kind by SanDisk, uses hardware-based 256-bit AES encryption and imposes mandatory access control on all files as protection against loss or theft of the drive. Users can access all of the drive's encryption features from the Mac, including shutting down access to the encrypted storage area, managing passwords and changing preferences.

The Cruzer Enterprise is available in configurations of 1GB, 2GB, 4GB or 8GB, and supports OS X 10.4 'Tiger' and OS X 10.5 '\"Leopard". SanDisk is also making Mac support available on older versions of Cruzer Enterprise via a firmware update, available from the company's Website:http://www.usb-flash-drivers.com/.

In July, PGP Corporation targeted the ongoing problem of data breaches via mobile devices with PGP Endpoint, designed to allow administrators to centrally manage policies for various types of devices, including laptops, desktops and mobile devices, and removable storage, such as USB drives, CDs and DVDs.

SAS bloke touts USB drive to store medical data

AN EX-SAS SOLDIER has come up with the idea of using USB Flash drivers to store vital medical data such as allergies and essential medications.

Phil Campion, formerly in the SAS thought up the ‘UTag’ while he was serving in Afghanistan after sewing a Flash drive containing his ID into his clothing, just in case the worst happened.

Phil's UTag was disguised  as a dog tag and stamped with the SAS symbol of a snake on a staff and marked ICE (“in case of emergency”).

This, Campion thinks, is a good way of letting the emergency services know exactly what medication a soldier needs, meaning that treatment will be more efficient and hopefully aid saving more lives.

Paramedics may already  look for the ICE next-of-kin in your mobile phone, but if the phone is locked this can be more of a dead end.

That’s one of the reasons that the USB Flash drive is being touted as the next step.

http://www.usb-flash-drivers.com/

 Lately large entertainment companies have been pushing virtual copies of their movies for portable media players (PMP) such as Apple’s iPod Touch. Sony has announced another way that they are going to distribute these virtual copies to consumers.

 

Sony will be releasing digital copies of movies and albums on USB flash drivers. Everyone could use a flash drive or two but just how many is to many? Michael Jackson fans can pickup the 25th Anniversary of the thriller album for only $19.99, or feature films for $29.99 each. Sony has not commented on whether or not there will be any added special features to these titles.

USB Drive Saves Data, Tells Future

Oh mystical USB drive I come to you with an important question: "Will there be any Snickers left in the breakroom vending machine?" (Stars Say Yes). Thank you USB drive. You are truly wise.

Apparently, these fortune telling USB drivers come from the same folks that brought us the popular beer-filled drive. And, like its predecessor, this drive can also be customized with your company logo.

SanDisk's new USB drive secures data with 2x hardware encryption

The widespread proliferation of sensitive data via USB thumbdrives demands a need for data encryption, and SanDisk is stepping up to bat. Their newest Ultra Backup USB flash drive uses both password protection and 256-bit AES hardware encryption to reduce holes in vulnerability across the board.

Sandisk's entire line of USB flash drivers, including their Cruzer series, is also getting a much-deserved makeover. The new designs use a capless design and have a convenient LED that glows amber while the drive is in use. In addition, all the drives will continue to use U3 Smart technology that lets users run software applications directly off the key without any extra fussy drivers.

 

The Ultra Backup USB drive is offered in a range of capacities from 8GB ($40) to 64GB ($200) and will be available in Spring 2009.

Swiss Army Knife offers 32GBs of USB storage

Not just a trade show haven for new televisions, computers and a host of other cutting-edge hardware, the annual Consumer Electronics Show (CES) in Las Vegas also provides an outlet for more modest gadgetry, such as the latest generation of Swiss Army Knife.

 

While the trusty Swiss Army Knife has long since come equipped with flip-out USB memory capabilities ?alongside more conventional features such as scissors, a knife, nail file, etc. ?the new Presentation Pro is aimed more squarely at business users and comes with a whopping data capacity of up to 32GBs.

And, what more, manufacturer Victorinox is also offering up better security for that data thanks to the inclusion of encryption technology and a built-in fingerprint scanner that requires users successfully pass through a swipe verification process whenever the memory key is inserted in a computer.

SanDisk debuts Button Backup USB Flash Drive, other drives

Milpitas (CA) - Today, SanDisk launched some new USB flash drivers, including what it describes as the world's first "push button backup USB drive." These new flash drives range in storage capacity from 4GB to 64GB and price from around $25 to $200.

The new Ultra Backup USB Flash Drive offers its own built-in backup software solution, which is available when touching a button on the drive, according to SanDisk. No cables or separate software installations are required for the backup, and the drive offers two layers of security protection in the form of password-protected access control and AES hardware-based encryption.

SanDisk also refreshed its Cruzer line of drives to look more contemporary. These changed looks include L body shapes, red USB connectors and a capless design. A glowing amber light lets users know when the connected drive is ready for reading or writing data. The Cruzer line will continue to include U3 technology, allowing users to run applications directly from the drives.

Also kept by SanDisk are the Extreme Contour USB flash drives, noted for fast data transfer speeds and two layers of security. The new Backup and Cruzer drives will be out in April, while the Contour drives are available now.

EarthDrive is the World's First Recyclable USB Drive

Recyclable USB Drive

With years of product development and extensive research, the EarthDrive is designed and built using the maximum amount of biodegradable materials (PLA), resulting in a fully recyclable product. PLA (Polylactic acid) is a biodegradable polyester derived from renewable resources, such as corn.

In partnership with the American Forests, a portion of all EarthDrive product sales will go towards the planting of trees.

In addition to being one of the most durable USB drives in the world, the EarthDrive is also one of the most versatile. Built with ATP’s SIP technology, all vital flash components are completely encapsulated allowing for shock proof, waterproof, and dust proof durability.

USB drives offer more memory, lots more uses

People often only see USB drivers or thumb drives as a means to lug around their files, but they are capable of so much more.

This is where you may ask, “What is different now than in the past?”

The answer is a combination of more features in newer operating systems and the availability of larger capacity USB drives. Until recently, 8-16 GB or maybe even 32GB were the largest thumb drives on the market. You can find 64GB for sale online and 128 GB drives are planned for release later this year. Larger drive sizes increase the potential uses.

Early adapters of larger capacity USB drives should expect to pay for it. You should also expect to see the price decrease over time.

I have touched on some potential thumb drive uses in previous articles, but other uses have emerged because of the availability of higher capacity drives. One of my favorite uses for USB drives is to store portable applications – scaled down versions of some of the programs on your computer.

Some other possible uses are to make a pocket-size full backup of your computer. You can make a clone or mirror backup, based on using an 128GB thumb drive and backup software such as Norton’s or Acronis that allows image backups. This is also based on the premise that most home computers don’t come close to using 128 GB of disk space.

RFID Reader Module with USB interface

DAILY RFID recently released the 125KHz low frequency RFID Reader Module,which is compatible with 125KHz frequency chips just like EM4001,TK4100 and so on.With a very good performance,this kind of RFID reader module provides a very low cost with only about 28USD.

In addition to the small dimension, the reader module features low power consumption. By connecting the rfid reader with this module to PC via a USB interface,the integrated device can be used for many kinds of RFID applications such as access control, time and attendance, industrial automation, process control, logistics, and supply chain management.

This rfid reader module is engineered to provide a read range up to 50mm to 100mm due to its rugged industry standard,specifically developed by DAILY RFID to be integrated to many rfid applications.And it has LED indication for standby search and data communications to make it convenient to use.

Please visit http://www.china-usb.cn/ for more infomation about RFID reader.

Nova Media intros 3G USB modem/memory stick

Nova media on Tuesday introduced the iCON , a new 3G USB modem with memory stick capabilities. The new device costs €168 (US$215.67).

The iCON 431 plugs into an available USB port and enables you to connect to the Internet using 3G wireless data networks. It’s compatible with HSUPA, 3G UTS, EDGE and GPRS networks — you’ll need a SIM card from a cellular service provider, which has to be enabled for data transmission.

 

The card is placed into the device and “launch2net” software Nova media includes helps you set up and control your connection.

Post-It Note Dispenser Combined with USB Flash Drive

We’re all pretty familiar with the concept of convergence, but this latest creation is nothing short of strange. For some reason or another, someone has decided to combine a standard USB flash drive with a stack of Post-It notes.

If you’ve ever endured the horrors of the cubicle, then you probably had at least a few co-workers who stuck these sticky notes all over their monitors. Instead of keeping the sticky note pad buried underneath the mess of stuff on your desk, you can have it attached to this flash drive.

In an effort to be slightly more aligned to the side of green technology, this flash drive has been covered up in a bamboo shell. I think that’s green. The throwaway nature of Post-It notes, however, probably isn’t very green, especially since you’ll run out of the first batch of 100 stickies pretty quickly.

In any case, you can find this unique creation at usb-flash-drivers.com. The 2GB model goes for about thirty bucks.

Samsung wireless USB chips on the way

In anticipation of a big market for ultra wideband products, Samsung has announced a new wireless USB System-on-Chip.

The technology can reach download speeds of up to 120 Mbps, and can pull in a 700 MB movie file in roughly a minute. Expect to see the chip in digital cameras and mobile phones at first, followed by printers, beam projectors, hard disks, displays, and wireless speakers.

Wireless data transfer already exists in some of those products with built-in Bluetooth or Wi-Fi adapters. Ultra wideband (UWB) trades long signal range for high bandwidth, so it’s less likely than Wi-Fi to get mixed up with other wireless signals.

Also, we’ve seen UWB featured into some laptops already, like Lenovo’s Thinkpad X200 T, but Samsung’s chip is geared more towards the products that sync up with the computer. Samsung says its chip is ideal for portable electronic devices because of its low 300mW power consumption. It also uses a 128-bit Advanced Encryption Standard and "a static signal that makes hacking through wiretapping and signal tracing difficult."

Another interesting point to note: Samsung specifically mentions peer-to-peer sharing through mobile phones without a host computer as one of the chip’s perks. Perhaps future Samsung phones will encourage that kind of behavior.

The chips will enter mass production in the second quarter of this year, so inclusion in consume

Sandisk ImageMate Multi-Card USB 2.0 Reader

With digital cameras and mobile phones using Flash memory there is still a need for an easy and quick way to transfer files from the device to your PC for storage and touch-up. SanDisk recently introduced the ImageMate Multi-Card USB 2.0 Reader/Writer and what makes it interesting is that it only only features one Flash card slot! Industry analyst iSuppli’s said that their fourth-quarter 2008 estimates show that 78 percent of all mobile phones with removable memory card slots feature the SD interface and projects 85 percent market penetration by 2012. CompactFlash memory has been a mainstay in the SLR (single-lens reflex) camera market, but in 2008 digital camera behemoth Canon chose to design the EOS 450D camera with SD flash-memory cards rather than the CompactFlash cards. The shift to SD Flash memory was made clear as the standard dominates both the camera and mobile phone markets. The good news about this shift is that the larger CompactFlash standard can be dropped from many readers as it isn't in high demand any longer. This means that smaller USB 2.0 Reader/Writer devices can be developed and that is just what SanDisk did.  

The SanDisk ImageMate Multi-Card USB 2.0 Reader/Writer that we will be looking at today is part number SDDR-199-A20 and was announced just three weeks ago. The reader is faster, smaller and sleeker than anything SanDisk has come out before and features upgraded software applications to boot. This Multi-Card reader is capable of up to 30MB/s read and 27 MB/s write data transfer rates when using a SanDisk Extreme III 30MB/s Edition SDHC card, so this is not the reader you grew up with!

Opening the box you can see that the Multi-Card reader comes with everything you need to transfer your files to your PC quickly, easily and safely. It works with many popular types of memory cards, but be sure your card is listed below if you are interested in this reader. 

Surgeons Turn Man's Finger Into Computer Memory Stick

Talk about being "handy." Plastic surgeons have installed a USB memory stick in the false finger of a 29-year-old computer whiz.

Surgeons developed the gadget after Jerry Javala lost his digit in a motorcycle accident.

The Finnish computer programmer asked doctors in Helsinki to create the removable finger with a memory stick that can be plugged into his computer.

The device contains some of his favorite programs and a copy of the Linux operating system.

"I simply put my finger into the USB port of a computer and pull out the hand if I need it,” Javala explained. “Afterwards the finger goes back on."

Nanovision USB Mimo Monitor

UK car customization shop Carcomputer have uploaded both information and images of what is possibly the next generation of the Nanovision USB-driven Mimo monitor. The specifications look set to be the same as its predecessor, featuring a 7" LED-backlit display at 800 x 480 resolution, but the newly designed case makes it stand out from the crowd. No longer do you need to bear the shame of its chunky and cheap-looking glossy plastic, as you now can bask in pride of the slender matte black and silver design that is collapsible and stowed away in a bag so that your panel will remain scratch-free when traveling.

USB Flash Drive File Recovery

Free thumb drive data recovery utility retrieve files lost in case of virus attack, accidental deletion, formatting or improper unplugged from corrupted pen drive. Jump drive file retrieval program recovers all types of files like 3gp, jpg, avi, rm, dat, wav, mp3, jpeg, m4a, mpeg, wma, doc,mp4, gif and many other valuable documents. USB drive files salvage application easily works under the environment of windows 98, NT, ME, 2000 (server, professional, advance server), XP (server, home, media center), 2003 and Vista operating system installed desktop and laptop computer. Pen drive data recovery software recovers lost files from formatted memory stick even Drive not detected or Drive not formatted message displays. Memory stick data recovery application rescue lost data from all manufacturers made thumb drive like Transcend, Samsung, Kingmax, Nikon, Canon, Casio, Epson, Kingston, Sony, HP, Kodak, Konica, Super Talent, Toshiba and many more. Pen drive files rescue software provides highly interactive graphical user interface for user to works effectively without need of technical knowledge. Pen drive data restoration tool recovers compressed or encrypted data. Flash drive data recovery program provides user help manual (knowledge base) guide for user to works easily. Features: * Flash drive files rescue tool provides both install and uninstall facilities to users. * USB keychain files recovery software rescue all types of files like zip, avi, DOCX, dat, wav, XLS, jpg, mp4, jpeg, rm, mpeg, wma etc. * Jump drive data restoration program recovers files from all storage capacity of pen drive like 256MB, 512MB, 1GB, 2GB, 4GB, 8GB and higher. * Pen drive data restoration program provides interactive graphical user interface to work efficiently.

Fujitsu Secure USB protects your info

 

If you want to make sure that your personal information is protected, check out the latest from Fujitsu. The Secure USB Memory Device makes absolutely sure your data is secure. If you transport a lot of information from computer to computer it will be very useful.

Think of it as a thumb drive with a battery and a processor built in. You can adjust the security settings on the drive so that data will be automatically deleted after a certain period of time. Whatever you decide. Or if someone else tries t use it on another computer .

This way if you lose it, your data won’t end up in the wrong hands. No word on when it will be available, but it sure makes your info extra secure.

Unusually tiny USB drive stores 8GB

 

How small do USB drives have to get before they're officially too small? This EagleTec USB Nano Flash Drive is pushing the limit, but even at its Lilliputian dimensions, it can still stuff 8 GB in there. Good thing it has a little hook on the end so you can attach it to your keychain, or you would lose it the first day you had it.

It's cheap, too. A mere $33 takes home the 8GB model, and if that's too steep for you, the 4GB version is $22. While its 6Mb per second write speed is not exceptionally fast, it'll do in a pinch. Our idea for a future version: give it a tiny slot that accepts microSD cards.

Bonus Review: Verbatim Storage You Can Lose In a Flash

My mailbox -- not the electronic kind, but the cubbyhole reserved for me in our mailroom -- can attract some oddball gadgets. One of the weirder ones showed up on Friday: a Verbatim Store 'n' Go Micro USB Drive.

"Micro" is the operative word here: This flash-memory drive (or memory key, or USB key, or whatever you want to call it) only measures about an inch long, half an inch wide and a sixteenth of an inch thick. That's less than half the thickness of the USB ports it plugs into.

As such, the Store 'n' Go Micro -- available in 2, 4 and 8-gigabyte versions at around $12, $22 and $34 each -- represents an impressive feat of memory miniaturization. Unfortunately, it's less than practical.

Let's start with that tiny size, not much bigger than such microscopic memory-card formats as microSD. If one of these babies lands in the bottom of a cluttered desk drawer, purse or briefcase, you may not see it again for months.

Kingston's Mac Compatible 32GB USB Flash drive

Memory products maker Kingston Technology has upgraded its DataTraveler Vault - Privacy Edition (DTVP) USB Flash drive to be now compatible with Apple Mac operating systems (OSX 10.4x - 10.5x).

It is compatible with Windows Vista, Windows XP (SP1, SP2, SP3) and Windows 2000 (SP4) too.

Kingston DataTraveler Vault-Privacy Edition supports Macintosh OS (OSX 10.4x-10.5x) and has an enforced password protection system. It is designed to work with to USB 2.0 specifications. It is waterproof and comes with a five-year warranty.

The cost of Kingston DataTraveler Vault-Privacy Edition 32GB capacity is Rs. 39,999. Apart from this, the DataTraveler Vault-Privacy Edition is also available in 2GB capacity for Rs.6,950, 4GB capacity for Rs.9,940, 8GB capacity for Rs. 16,125 and 16GB capacity for Rs. 24,999.

The flash drive without the Apple Mac compatibilty was first launched in February in an 8GB capacity for Rs. 16,215.

MCCI Releases Windows 7 USB Host Drivers

Microsoft has evolved USB support in Windows 7 to improve overall USB stability and performance. Using this foundation, MCCI adds functionality not supported by Microsoft’s drivers and customizes the solution, optimizing power management and data throughput. Legacy versions of Microsoft operating systems—Win2K, Win XP, and Vista—are supported, as well as MacOS and Linux, making MCCI a one-stop provider for USB host drivers.

According to MCCI CEO Terry Moore, “Our customers are top tier product manufacturers who need to deliver comprehensive Windows product support to their customers. Windows 7 beta releases are seeing a high level of acceptance, indicating that end-users will demand Windows 7 support as soon as those PCs hit the streets. By supporting Windows 7 now, MCCI’s customers can go to market at Windows 7 launch, confident that their products have been well tested.”

In addition to host drivers, MCCI delivers USB 2.0 device/host/OTG software used in embedded devices, creating an end-to-end solution for device manufacturers. Products for USB 3.0 SuperSpeed are planned for release in the first half of 2009.

MCCI Releases Windows 7 USB Host Drivers

Microsoft has evolved USB support in Windows 7 to improve overall USB stability and performance. Using this foundation, MCCI adds functionality not supported by Microsoft’s drivers and customizes the solution, optimizing power management and data throughput. Legacy versions of Microsoft operating systems—Win2K, Win XP, and Vista—are supported, as well as MacOS and Linux, making MCCI a one-stop provider for USB host drivers.

According to MCCI CEO Terry Moore, “Our customers are top tier product manufacturers who need to deliver comprehensive Windows product support to their customers. Windows 7 beta releases are seeing a high level of acceptance, indicating that end-users will demand Windows 7 support as soon as those PCs hit the streets. By supporting Windows 7 now, MCCI’s customers can go to market at Windows 7 launch, confident that their products have been well tested.”

In addition to host drivers, MCCI delivers USB 2.0 device/host/OTG software used in embedded devices, creating an end-to-end solution for device manufacturers. Products for USB 3.0 SuperSpeed are planned for release in the first half of 2009.

USB display technology heading for Linux

Previously available only on Windows and Mac, the drivers can now be developed for Linux devices now that the source code library has been released under GNU Lesser General Public License v2 (LGPL). The library should enable the development of Linux X Servers, drivers, and other applications that work with the DisplayLink-compatible technology. As a result, USB-to-monitor attachments should be available on Linux devices including netbooks, notebooks, mobile Internet devices (MIDs), mobile phones, embedded displays, embedded devices, and digital signage, the company says.

A DisplayLink driver compresses graphics using adaptive compression technology that automatically balances compression methods based on the content, available CPU power, and USB bandwidth, says the company. The data is then sent out through the USB port to a monitor or other device with an embedded DisplayLink DL-120 or DL-160 chip, which include a USB port on one side and an analog, DVI, or FPI (LVDS) video port on the other. The chip decompresses the stream and enables "instant cloning or extending of a desktop among multiple displays," says DisplayLink. The technology is said to support 32-bit True Color depth and displays with up to SXGA (1280 x 1024) for the DL-120, or UXGA (1600 x 1200) resolution for the DL-160.

Thinnest USB Flash in the world, really?

So, it's just another boring USB memory card. And it's only 4 GB capacity. And it costs a whopping $25 from TopTechProducts. So... is it Cool?

Actually, we don't even think it's the thinnest card ever; we've been given promotional USB cards made of card(board) which were definitely no thicker. Well, no, we didn't measure it, what do you take our team for, boring techies?

The point of this toy, really, isn't to make you and me buy it. It really isn't. It's designed for people like the chief of PR for Cisco, or for the marketing boss of IBM, and they'll hand them out as party favours at press conferences or internal promotional seminars, or incentive meetings.

Portable Panic: The Evolution of USB Insecurity

As USB devices have evolved into useful storage media, they've also turned into a security nightmare for agencies.

The usage of USB devices should be encouraged and embraced to improve productivity, but they also must be managed to minimize the risks inherent with these tools.

This paper discusses how USB devices have evolved and looks in-depth at the productivity benefits as well as the potential risks these devices can introduce if not managed properly.

This paper also offers recommendations on how to balance the productivity versus risk challenge and highlights how government agencies can effectively manage the usage of USB devices and prevent data loss and malware introduction.

Microsoft could offer Windows 7 on a USB stick

Microsoft is considering offering Windows 7 on a USB stick to help users without CD or DVD drives upgrade their machines.

 

According to CNET, Microsoft has acknowledged that users of netbooks will find it difficult to upgrade to Windows 7. USB sticks would be an alternative to traditional CDs and DVDs for new software.

Microsoft has already made Windows 7 10% cheaper than Windows Vista.

Users get a free upgrade if they buy a Vista PC. When Windows 7 ships on 22 October 2009, Microsoft said eligible customers will be able to get a free upgrade to the equivalent Home, Premium, Business or Ultimate edition of Windows 7.

Windows 7 represents an important milestone for Microsoft, particularly for corporate users, who were dismayed that Windows Vista was not compatible with Windows XP. In Windows 7, Microsoft said it has addressed this limitation with an XP compatibility mode, which allows XP applications to run in a virtual machine.

Atari USB Flash Drive

 

Somewhere in a parallel universe where Atari is still king, this is what their flash drivers look like. In our world USB flash drives are small and come in all sorts of shapes that are smaller than an Atari cartridge. Except this one.

The Atari USB flash drive comes with a USB cable to plug into your computer since the thing is too big to just hang off the USB port. It does evoke some nostalgia from those of us old enough to remember the Atari 2600.

You could probably fit all of the Atari classics on this one drive.

First USB 3.0 Motherboard on the Way

The long-awaited arrival of USB 3.0, which offers speeds as much as ten times faster than 2.0, is almost over as ASUS has revealed the first motherboard to feature the faster standard.

The P6X58 Premium board features both 3.0 and 2.0 ports, allowing for greater functionality with USB devices both old and new. ASUS has also made it super easy to tell the new ports from the old, with the USB 3.0 connectors sporting blue connectors.

No word on when or how much this board will set you back — but it's official, USB 3.0 is on its way.

QwicKey USB Credit Card Swiper

 

QwicKey is a USB device that will scan your credit cards. It’s sort of like the Smartswipe that we featured awhile back. It’s designed for those who want to quickly enter their credit card details online. The included software lets you securely store all of your credit card data and PIN numbers as well as usernames and passwords.

The card reader will cost you $49.95 and includes a 1 year subscription to an online version of the software which allows you to securely access your card details from any computer. Just log in with a single username and password.

Verbatim starts shipping Tuff-clips USB drives

The USB drives today are a must as they prove to be the most convenient way out to data storage. Due to their small size, these flash drives are the most susceptible to being misplaced as well. Verbatim has made an effort to restrain the USB drives from being misplaced as they launch the Tuff-Clip USB Drives.

This new set of USB Drives will be equipped to hold data as much as 4GB or 8GB. Made for rough usage these new flash drives come in an ultra rugged enclosure made from plastic. The USB connector is protected by a handy retractable slider.

Designed for clip and go purposes, these tough flash drives have been provided with a built in carabineer clip. This clip enables the USB to be safely hooked onto backpacks, key chains, belt loops or notebooks.

“The Tuff-Clip drive’s enclosure is made of ABS plastic and built to take everyday knocks in stride,” explained Mark Rogers, Verbatim Product Manager. “With the clip-on design, the drives are also less likely to get lost or misplaced; and with the retractable cover, there is no cap to lose.”

Pre-loaded with password and protection software for Windows systems, these drives protect the sensitive data in user defined private zones. The public zones on the other hand are open for access and data sharing of content that is non sensitive.

Intel, Micron develop flash chips for USB drives

On Tuesday, Intel and Micron Technology announced the development of high-data-capacity flash memory technology for flash cards and USB drives.

 

Intel-Micron chip will enable high-capacity USB drives

(Credit: Lexar)

 

And in a related announcement, Intel said Monday that it has validated a fix for its new 34-nanometer X25-M solid-state drive, which is based on similar flash memory technology. The bug affects users who set a BIOS drive password. That update is available here.

The two chipmakers, which partner in the manufacture of flash memory chips, said Tuesday that they have developed NAND flash memory capable of 3 bits per cell based on 34-nanometer technology. This allows greater data density than the standard 2-bits-per-cell technology and will result in high-capacity USB flash drivers, according to Micron.

While packing more bits into a cell provides greater data densities, it is not as reliable as flash memory based on more standard technology, according to Kevin Kilbuck, director of NAND marketing at Micron. Therefore, the 3-bits-per-cell chips will be limited initially to flash drives, which don't require the data storage reliability of a solid-state drive, which is used as the primary storage device in laptops and servers.
 

Corsair claims world's fastest 128GB USB flash drive

Computerworld - Corsair Memory Inc. today announced what it claims to be the world's fastest a 128GB USB flash drive, the Flash Voyager GT. The newest Flash Voyager GT is based on a dual-controller architecture to achieve what Corsair said is single-level cell (SLC) NAND flash memory performance levels using less expensive and higher-density multilevel cell (MLC) NAND flash.

According to Corsair, the 128GB Flash Voyager GT can achieve read speeds of up to 32MB/sec. and write speeds of up to 25.6MB/sec. The limiting factor in throughput is the speed of the USB 2.0 bus -- a maximum of 480Mbit/sec. -- and any operating system overhead.

In comparison, the 8GB Iron Key USB flash drivers, which actually uses SLC flash memory, has a read speed of up to 30MB/sec. and a write speed of up to 20MB/sec. (Computerword's review of the 4GB Iron Key showed it had a read rate of 29MB/sec.) Flash drives with more memory tend to have better performance.

"High performance is a key requirement for super-high-capacity flash drives such as the 128GB Voyager GT, simply because it is able to store such a large volume of data," John Beekley, vice president of applications at Corsair, said in a statement. "The 128GB Voyager GT is nearly twice as fast as other high-capacity flash drives, which means less time waiting for your music, video or office files to copy to and from the drive."

Transcend launches rugged USB flash drive

Transcend has added a new rugged USB flash drivers to its range of memory products. The Transcend JetFlash V70 is claimed to have anti-shock features, survive dust and splashes. For this, its exterior casing is made of rubber, and has a tethered cap holder that will help prevent losing the cap.

Unlike USB flash drives that are usually made of plastic or metal materials, the JetFlash V70 is said to be made of eco-friendly silicone rubber that provides a pleasant tactile feel and offers excellent protection for stored data while working, exercising, or travelling outdoors. Transcend also says that it meets U.S. military drop-test standards (MIL-STD-810F 516.5--Transit Drop), thus making it one of the most robust USB Flash Drives.

Verbatim Launches Portable USB Drive

Verbatim has introduced a sleek portable USB hard drive with an always-on blue screen that displays available storage space.

The palm-sized InSight, launched Monday, has a piano-black finish and is designed for use with a Windows PC or Mac. The external drive weighs less than six ounces and has a data transfer rate of 480 MB per second.

Verbatim is hoping the InSight's stylish design will lure customers, along with the storage-tracking display that remains on even when the drive is unplugged from a computer.

"The new enclosure design for InSight Portable Hard Drives adds a touch of elegance to the external hard drive product category," Charles Klinker, director of marketing for Verbatim's hard-disk drive business, said in a statement.

USB mosquito repellent dongle

 

The USB port is one versatile port. We use it for storage, charging, playing with USB toys and now for the USB mosquito repellent dongle. That’s right, you can now repel mosquitoes via USB. Assuming the device works anyway.

At least it will only cost you $6 to find out. This device generates a repellent field to which some insects are sensitive. My guess is that it doesn’thave a far range. If any of you have tried this, let us know.

Palm Smacked Down In USB Dispute With Apple

Remember if you will the back-and-forth between Apple and Palm concerning the Palm Pre and its ability to work with Apple’s iTunes.

When first released earlier this year, the Palm Pre worked with iTunes, much to Apple’s annoyance. Naturally it wasn’t long before Apple issued a software patch for iTunes that locked out the Pre. Not long after that, Palm issued a patch of its own for the Pre that got it working with iTunes again, which Apple soon disabled…you get the idea.

Later on, Palm upped the ante a bit, by complaining to the USB Implementers Forum, the governing body behind all things related to USB technology. Engadget had a nice summary at the time.

Well now the USB-IF has ruled, and according to a letter to I’ve seen today, this tactic hasn’t worked out so well for Palm.