Dane-Elec Announces USA's First SuperSpeed USB 3.0 External Hard Drives and Solid State Drives
October 19, 2009 Dane-Elec introduced its So SuperSpeed line of External USB 3.0 Hard Drives (HDD) to the U.S. market. The line includes the world's first USB 3.0 Solid State Drive (SSD), capable of true data transfer speeds of 250MB per second. Consumers will be able to purchase these high-speed USB 3.0 devices from Dane-Elec and its U.S. retail partners starting December 11th, coinciding with the launch of USB 3.0-compatible laptops and PCs from leading OEMs.
"The eagerly awaited USB 3.0 revolution is finally here, and Dane-Elec is thrilled to be at its forefront," said Jon Christeson, Director of Marketing for Dane-Elec U.S. "With transfer speeds of up to ten times faster than USB 2.0 devices, these powerful products will be game changers for consumers and small businesses that regularly work with large files such as video content."
Dane-Elec's new USB 3.0 HDDs offer several storage options ranging from 500 GB all the way up to 2 TB, and are available in 2.5" or 3.5" formats for either laptop or desktop computers. The So Extreme SuperSpeed SSD product line offers consumers a storage option of either 80 GB (Intel M-25) or 160 GB (Intel M-25). Because these devices are powered by USB 3.0 controllers, users will be able to transfer bandwidth-intensive content such as photos, music and video to and from their USB 3.0 built-in port laptops and PCs at record speed, even up to 10 times faster than the transfer speed of current USB 2.0 devices. Observed data transfer speeds for the SSDs have reached 250 MB per second.
Dane-Elec will also be offering USB 3.0-compatible adapters for desktops with PCIe slots and laptops with PCIXpress slots. This will allow consumers using current machines (without built-in USB 3.0 ports) to take advantage of much of the increased speed capabilities of USB 3.0.
Kingston Releases DataTraveler 300 256GB USB Flash Drive
Kingston announced a week ago the launch of the world’s first 256GB USB flash drive, the Kingston Technology DataTraveler 300. The Kingston DataTraveler 300, allows users to carry around a whole digital world, from thousands of image files to a whole database of documents. Users will also benefit from quick transfer rates and the option to password protects their data.
“The DataTraveler 300 will enable users to carry huge volumes of data with them everywhere they go – up to 365 CDs for example. That’s one album for every day of the year, and it demonstrates how far flash technology has developed,” said Kirsty Miller, Product Marketing Manager – Consumer, Kingston Technology Europe. “Business users and consumers can also safeguard their data by initializing the Password Traveler software which will allow them to password protect their data in a privacy zone without the need of administrator rights.”
The Kingston DataTraveler 300 is available only in 256GB and is backed by a five-year warranty and 24/7 Tech Support. The Kingston DataTraveler is built to order only; customers who wish to purchase the drive can place an order with many reseller and e-tailers.
Fujitsu Develops Secure USB Memory Device Featuring Automatic Data-Erase Function
Fujitsu announced Friday April 17 the development of two new technologies designed to prevent the unwanted disclosure of data from lost USB memory devices and prevent uploads to file-sharing networks: a USB memory device technology that after a fixed period of time automatically erases data stored on the USB memory, and a file redirect technology which ensures that the data from the USB memory device can only be stored on a specified server. This creates a secure environment that protects confidential information and allows USB memory devices to be used as a convenient way to safely carry customer data back to one's own company to manage the data.
The new USB Drive enables data to be carried outside of a company safely and in compliance with the company's security policy. This environment consists of the following two technologies:
Secure USB memory device prototype: The new and unique USB memory device prototype contains a processor and battery. After a fixed period of time, if the USB memory device is plugged into an unauthorized PC, the data can automatically be erased or the USB memory device can be rendered unusable. For example, the USB memory device can be set up with a policy whereby the data will be automatically deleted after 24 hours, or it will be deleted if the USB memory is plugged into an unregistered computer even once. By storing and carrying data on a USB memory device that allows for this type of security setting, in the event that the USB memory device is lost, the data stored on it will be automatically deleted and thus enable strict security.
File redirect technology: Together with the self-erasing USB memory device, installing the file redirect software on a PC can be used to restrict the copying of data from the USB memory device, forcing it to reside only on the USB memory itself and a specific company server. This can also be used to prohibit confidential data from being sent as an e-mail attachment or from being printed. Since confidential data is prohibited from being written to the hard disk drive of the PC, it prevents data from being stored on PCs or USB memories and later transferred to file-sharing networks, whether by accident or intentionally.
Now with Pogoplug you can easily access your USB flash drive or USB connected external drive from any PC that is connected to the web. You may also share the contents of your drive with family, friends, or co-workers. The device is a small white brick—little bigger than a regular AC adapter—that can fit just about anywhere.
The setup is so easy and does not involve configuring ports, routers, IP addresses, firewalls, or any other complicated setup. All you have to do is:
Plug your Pogoplug into a wall socket or power strip.
Connect your Pogoplug to your router with the supplied network cable.
Connect any external hard drive or memory stick to the USB port in your Pogoplug.
From your computer, go to my.pogoplug.com and type in your unique Pogoplug registration code
The drive is now online and ready to use.
Pogoplug costs $99 and is available for shipping only to the US and Canada.
LaCie Introduces Three “Keys” for Handy Portable Storage
On Monday, LaCie announced three new ways to carry digital content – LaCie itsaKey, iamaKey and PassKey USB key drives, design by 5.5 Designers. LaCie had released CurrenKey last December also designed by 5.5 Desginers. 5.5 Designers had The inventive, compact key-shaped design conveniently fits in a pocket or on a key ring. The itsaKey and iamaKey store up to 8 gigabytes of flash memory. Alternatively, the PassKey has a built-in microSD card reader, which allows you to use your memory cards as stylish and handy USB keys.
The LaCie Keys are available now, starting at $9.90. LaCie products are available through the LaCie Online Store or LaCie resellers.
SanDisk Launches World's First Button Backup USB Flash Drive
SanDisk introduced earlier this month during CES 2009 the world’s first backup USB flash drive with simple backup software activation at the touch of a button. The SanDisk Ultra Backup USB portable flash drive is the first offering of the company’s new SanDisk Ultra USB product line.
With capacities up to 64GB, the SanDisk Ultra Backup USB flash drive is designed to protect computer users’ photos, music, videos, personal and business documents, and other types of digital files, with the simple touch of a button. No software installation is needed. The drive protects onboard digital content with a dual layer of security, including password-protected access control and ultra-secure AES hardware-based encryption.
The new SanDisk USB flash drives will first become available in April 2009. The SanDisk Ultra Backup drive will be available in capacities of 8GB-64GB with MSRPs ranging between $39.99 and $199.99.
The SanDisk Ultra Backup drive includes a 5-year limited warranty.
The design was created exclusively for LaCie by 5.5 designers. LaCie CurrenKeys open with a simple rotation of the coin’s edge; a design that easily reveals and hides the USB connector with a twist. For added data security, the LaCie CurrenKeys are made with a shock-proof, die-cast metal for resilience and safety.
The LaCie CurrenKeys come with two storage capacities: the silver LaCie CurrenKey can pack up to 8 GB (US $30) while the bronze can handle up to 4 GB (US $20).
Finally! The specifications of USB 3.0 has been revealed today to public as promised. The specification document consists of 482 pages put together by group of developers from Hewlett-Packard, Intel, NEC, ST-NXP Wireless, Microsoft, and Texas Instruments. The document specifies the super speed of the new USB which can reach up to 5 Gbps.
The document defines the next generation USB industry-standard, USB 3.0. The specification described the protocol definition, types of transactions, bus management, and the programming interface required to design and build systems and peripherals that are compliant with this specification.
USB 3.0's goal remains to enable devices from different vendors to interpolate in an open architecture, while maintaining and leveraging the existing USB infrastructure (device drivers, software interfaces, etc.). The specification is intended as an enhancement to the PC architecture, spanning portable, business desktop, and home environments, as well as simple device-to-device communications. It is intended that the specification allow system OEMs and peripheral developers adequate room for product versatility and market differentiation without the burden of carrying obsolete interfaces or losing compatibility.
On November 17 the SuperSpeed USB (USB 3.0) Developers Conference, hosted by the USB Implementers Forum in San Jose, Calif., will unveil the USB 3.0 specification to the industry, according to a statement Wednesday from USB-IF President Jeff Ravencraft at the Windows Hardware Engineering Conference (WinHEC) in Los Angeles>
The USB 3.0 specification is significant because all future PCs and devices will use connectors based on it. The spec is also expected to offer 10 times the speed of USB 2.0 or roughly 5 gigabits per second.
Hewlett-Packard, Intel, NEC, NXP Semiconductors, Microsoft, and Texas Instruments are all backers of SuperSpeed USB.
Intel and Nvidia had been skirmishing over the standard but resolved their differences.
IronKey:World's Most Secure & Self-Destruct USB Flash Drive
If you are obsessed with security and you work as a secret agent, then IronKey will suit you best. IronKey has both physical security and cryptochip security to withstand physical and virtual attacks.
The contents of the drive are filled with epoxy, so if a hacker tries to physically access the chips, he'd more likely damage them instead. Even if he did get access to the memory chips, they'd be worthless without the encryption chip. Electron-shielded, even a scanning electron microscope can't get inside. And get a hold of this, 10 incorrect password attempts, and the encryption chip self-destructs, making the contents of the flash drive totally unreadable.
Watch the following video that explains more about IronKey features:
Applications built onto the IronKey help keep your personal data safe. For example, the password manager keeps your passwords safe. Your passwords are securely stored in a hidden hardware-encrypted area inside the device (and not in the drive's file system), being first locally encrypted with 256-bit AES, using randomly generated keys encrypted with a SHA-256 hash of your device password. All of this data is then doubly encrypted with 128-bit AES hardware encryption.
A secure copy of Firefox included with your IronKey encrypts your browsing session through a VPN tunnel to IronKey's Secure Sessions Service. It works by tunneling your entire web browsing communications through the Tor-based Secure Sessions proxy on your IronKey. The Secure Sessions tunnel connects over an encrypted connection to their network routing servers, which in turn route your traffic between a number of servers, and then eventually out to your destination website. This approach protects your identity and your confidentiality, encrypting and anonymizing your Web surfing on almost any network or VPN (virtual private network).
IronKey Specifications:
Fast 30MB/sec Read, 20MB/sec Write.
Drive contents encrypted with AES CBC-Mode Encryption.
Onboard IronKey Password-manager keeps all your internet passwords safe.
Secure version of Firefox included that encrypts all your web-surfing traffic.
Encased in a potted metal case, not plastic, making it one of the strongest USB keys around.
Exceeds MIL-STD-810F military waterproofing standards.
The encryption chip self-destructs if an invasive attack is detected.
If your Ironkey is lost, you can restore from a secure backup to a new Ironkey in minutes.
Dual channel SLC NAND Flash for high-quality and read/write speeds.
Works with Windows XP and Windows Vista, Linux and Mac OS X.
IronKey is available in 4 capacities: 1GB ($79), 2GB ($109), 4GB ($149), & 8GB ($299).
Disguise Your USB Flash Drive With Sawed-Off USB Cable
One aspect many people seem to forget about when thinking about securing their USB flash drives is Deception. In addition to securing your USB flash drive with passwords, encryption software, and fingerprint sensors ... you should first first disguise your USB drive. One cool way to do that is making it looks like a useless sawed-off USB cable.
Evil Mad Scientist Laboratories shows you how to create your own sawed-off USB flash drive. Those guys make it look so easy. I might actually try it in my spare time (if I can find any).
Last September I talked little bit about USB 3.0 coming soon in 2010. Engadget was able to spot USB 3.0 in CES 2008 and take few pictures of the new connector and compare it with the old USB 2.0 ...
"We just got a chance to check the connectors and compare with the old 2.0 standard (which the reps tell us is backward compatible, of course). With speeds of 4.8 Gbit/s (600 MB/s), and a powering system which intelligently cuts the juice when you're not using a device, we have a feeling you'll want. Too bad we all have to wait till 2010... the year we make contact... with USB 3.0", said Joshua Topolsky from Engadget.
SanDisk Introduces Handmade 18K Gold USB Necklaces At CES 2008
Philips has been making expensive Swarovski-encrusted accessories for women for a while now and we lately saw their new Active Crystal Collection at CES 2008 show. It looks like they have got a competitor now, with SanDisk showing their new prototype USB necklaces.
No word whether they are going to put them into production, but one thing is for sure that these USB necklaces look stunning. They are hand-made gold creations with Onyx centers on a gold chain. Pictured above boasts a 4GB hard drive with a tiny diamond entrenched in its handle. Anyway, the news in the air is that these beautiful USB necklaces will have 12GB of memory and obviously, a high price tag ;)
SanDisk Cruzer Titanium Plus: USB Drive with Online Backup
SanDisk announced yesterday Cruzer Titanium Plus, a USB flash drive that offers automatic online backup for every file copied to the drive, giving users true peace of mind. Cruzer Titanium Plus will be featured at the 2008 International Consumer Electronics Show from Jan. 7 to 10 in the Las Vegas.
The drive comes with six months of free online backup service. After quickly opening a personal password-protected online account, any files copied to the drive are automatically backed up online. If the computer isn’t online when files are copied to the drive, the backup will take place automatically the next time there is an Internet connection.
Cruzer Titanium Plus even helps protect the user against accidentally deleting important files. Files deleted from the drive can be easily recovered by signing into the online backup account. Files deleted from the drive will be kept online for 30 days, as long as the total of backed up files from the device and deleted files do not exceed available online backup capacity. Available online backup capacity matches the physical capacity of the drive.
The online backup service for Cruzer Titanium Plus is powered by BeInSync, a leader in data backup, synchronization, access and sharing. Storage for BeInSync online backup is provided by Amazon Web Services, a subsidiary of Amazon.com.
The Cruzer, which retails for $59.99 and goes on sale in March, will come with four gigabytes of storage and provide six months of free online backup, After that period, a user pays $29.99 a year to continue the online storage service.
Online backup is an important resource for many computer users. Other online activities include games and even learning. Teach yourself more about free online learning at the Learning Haven, a resourceful site with a variety of articles on just about anything. World maps, arts and crafts and much more information is free to just about anyone willing to learn.
Converting a SATA HDD for USB 2.0 can be a chore, especially if you aren't a geek. Now take a look at this SATA HDD Stage Rack. Instead of a plain USB enclosure design, it treats your internal drive as a old-school Sega cartridge. This approach is by far the best I've seen compared to the numerous SATA to USB adapter cables.
There's a button in front for ejecting the drives, and a glowing blue ring that doubles a power switch. The $47 base will also accept 2.5" in addition to 3.5" internal. The designer puts some extra weight in the rack to avoid the drive from tipping over. This means you have to bear the extra shipping cost ($39.7 to UAE)...
USB 3.0 Coming Soon: Specs in 2008 & Release in 2010
The "SuperSpeed" USB Promotions Group was announced Tuesday at the Intel Developer Forum. The promotions group will get together with contributors over the next year to finalize a USB 3.0 spec that will, they hope, take care of our wired peripheral and syncing needs for another five years or more.
USB 3.0 is built upon, and is backwards-compatible with, the USB 2.0 "High Speed" spec. It would be generous to even call the specifications "early" at this stage, but the group still had lots of information about how USB 3.0 will work and what features it will provide. The spec should be finalized sometime in the middle of 2008, with initial devices available in '09, and broad deployment by 2010.
The main two goals of SuperSpeed USB are to provide a 10X boost in transfer rate (from 480-Mbits/s in USB 2.0 to 4.8 Gbits/s in USB 3.0), while dramatically lowering power consumption. One example of their speed goals is to transfer a 27GB HD movie to a portable device in 70 seconds. The same thing would take 15 minutes or more with HighSpeed USB (2.0). The SuperSpeed devices will use the same connectors and the same programming and device models as existing devices.
SuperSpeed USB (aka USB 3.0) still has a long way to go, but the development pace seems pretty rapid. The spec will probably be done, or nearly so, by the time Intel Development Forum rolls around next year, with initial device development underway. In two years' time, we might even have the first USB 3.0 devices on the market.
USB History
USB 0.7 Released in November 1994.
USB 0.8 Released in December 1994.
USB 0.9 Released in April 1995.
USB 0.99 Released in August 1995.
USB 1.0 Release Candidate: Released in November 1995.
USB 1.0 Released in January 1996. 1.5 Mbit/s (Low-Speed)
USB 1.1 Released in September 1998. 12 Mbit/s (Full-Speed)
USB 2.0 Released in April 2000. 480 Mbit/s (Hi-Speed)
USB 3.0 Specification to be released by Intel and its partners mid 2008. Initial devices available in 2009, and broad deployment by 2010. 4.8 Gbit/s (Super-Speed)
Kensington Auto Power Inverter with USB Power Port
Kensington announced yesterday 20 new products that will be available soon this month and among them is the Auto Power Inverter with USB Power Port. This inverter converts your vehicle power outlet (e.g. car cigarette lighter) into a 90 Watt wall outlet. It will power and charge Mac or PC notebooks and USB mobile devices simultaneously in your car. The Built-in USB power port lets you charge USB compatible devices. The auto power inverter has some safety features (over temperature, over current and short-circuit protection).
The Auto Power Inverter with USB Power Port is backed by the Kensington Limited Lifetime Warranty. The retail price is (US $39.99).
The new Kensington products will be available for pre-order at Amazon.com and Kensington.com starting on September 17, 2007, and at other major retailers in late September.
Irikon flash memory is the world's first flash memory implementing iris authentication and ensures that the confidential data in the flash memory is secured by the iris authentication process. No one other than the pre-registered user can access the data within the flash memory without taking the iris authentication process. Users do not need to recall passwords but simply gaze into the iris camera on the flash memory to activate.
The iris scanner draws its power from the USB port and can recognize an approved iris in 2 seconds or less, and the iris can be scanned from up to 6cm away. User can register for up to 20 Iris templates (256-bit iris template encryption). Available flash memory capacity : 1GB / 2GB / 4GB.
Irikon hard disk drive will be available in future, too.
I found this custom homemade USB Flash Drive highly unique and mouth-watering for any USB geek (like myself). That's what Slava Tyukalov had to say about Titan, his custom homemade USB Flash drive ...
"I found out the hard way that most USB flash drives are highly unreliable and breaks down easily due to its inferior plastic. I had a few flash drives and I would throw them in my bag all the time - before I knew it they would die at the most inappropriate times (usually about 6 months later). So I decided to build my USB flash drive to be Waterproof, Anti-Shock, Anti-Vibration and Anti-Static.
Don’t put your data at risk of permanent loss with a simple zap of static electricity. Others USB flash drives manufacture claims to be bulletproof and virtually indestructible. It may be able to withstand a crushing force of 2,000 pounds, but it no match for a simple jolt of household static electricity, which can fry your USB flash drive, causing to permanently lose all of your data.
Each USB flash drive is constructed from graphite/aluminum composite metal matrix (which is light but durable), traditionally been used by NASA and other space agencies. Coated with Titanium (which is corrosion, chemical and acid resistant proof in all naturally occurring environments)."
Only 100 units were put for sale and Titan is already sold out.
Microsoft & SanDisk To Replace U3 Smart Technology To Curry Personal Computing Environment
Microsoft and SanDisk announced they have signed an agreement to deliver a next-generation software and hardware solution to place application programs and personal customization on USB flash drives and flash memory cards, expanding on and replacing SanDisk’s existing U3™ Smart Technology.
Under the terms of the agreement, Microsoft will develop a new software experience and SanDisk will develop new hardware capabilities, including the addition of TrustedFlash™ security technology. SanDisk will incorporate the combined software and hardware solution on removable flash memory cards and Cruzer USB flash drives. The new offering is expected to be commercially available starting in the second half of 2008.
Effective immediately, Microsoft will engage in discussions with third-party hardware vendors interested in licensing the new software offering. A new entity will be created to license compatible hardware designs, TrustedFlash and other intellectual property from both Microsoft and SanDisk, with revenues to be shared by the two companies.
The new offering will be designed so that users can carry their personal computing environment – including a customized and familiar user interface, applications and data – on a flash storage device such as a USB flash drive or flash memory card. This computing environment will be accessible on Windows XP and Windows Vista-based computers with a USB port or flash card reader. Users will be free to work on public or shared computers without fear of leaving personal information behind, and with confidence that their personal information will be encrypted, kept safer from malware, and otherwise protected through security provisions enabled by TrustedFlash technology.
Take a good look at this picture. What do you see? This is just another weird USB design from SolidAllience. I think this would look nice next to your desktop. Just not let your kids chew them.
According to Akihabara News, each foodDish USB hub is 100% hand made.
RITEK had showcase the availability of its new range of USB Flash Drive Hub--Yego at CeBIT 2007.
RITEK USB Flash Drive Hub Yego is unique design includes two additional USB ports, which allows users to combine each USB drive into a USB HUB and add on more mobile devices. Users now have easy access to a virtually endless stream of data, photos, or music without having to download or continually change out devices.
To assure privacy and protection, the USB Flash Drives feature advanced partition and security functions that make it possible for users to create password-protected sectors for the storage of confidential material. A tie-style LED indicator shows usage status. The versatile drive has its own storage up to 4GB.
The SkyScout is a revolutionary handheld device that uses advanced GPS technology with point and click convenience. It can identify 6000 Stars, 1,500 Double & Variable Stars, all 88 constellations, over 100 deep space objects including Galaxies, Nebulae & Star Clusters. SkyScout has over 200 audio descriptions of the most popular celestial objects.
Identify: Simply point the SkyScout at any star in the sky and click the "target" button. The SkyScout will tell you what object you are looking at.
Locate: To locate a star or planet, select the object's name from the menu and follow the directional arrows through the viewfinder. SkyScout tells you when you are on target.
Learn: Once you have targeted an object the real fun begins. The SkyScout includes entertaining and educational audio and text information, including facts, trivia, history and mythology about our most popular celestial objects. A fun learning tool for all ages, the SkyScout personal planetarium™ puts the knowledge of an expert astronomer in the palm of your hand.
USB connection and SD memory card slot allow database to be updated with new objects like comets, spacecraft, additional lessons and Sky Tours. Celestron SkyScout is sold in Amazon for $399
Kingston DataTraveler Reader = Card Reader + USB Drive
Kingston announced March 8th, 2007 its new DataTraveler Reader, a USB 2.0 Flash memory drive that provides up to 4GB of Flash storage, and includes an onboard SD/MMC expansion slot for reading nine different Flash memory card formats, including the new Secure Digital High-Capacity (SDHC) format.
Available in storage capacities of 1GB, 2GB and 4GB, the Kingston DataTraveler Reader is compatible with both Mac (OS 10.x or higher) and Windows (2000, XP and Vista) platforms. The new USB reader is compatible with SD, SDHC, miniSD, microSD, MMC, MMCplus, RS-MMC, MMCmobile and MMCmicro card formats.
When inserted into a computer's USB port, the DataTraveler Reader is assigned two drive letters (for example, G:\ and H:\). One drive letter is assigned to the Reader's internal storage while the other is designated for the expansion slot. Users can quickly and easily work with both drives to either transfer files to the computer or between the USB drive and the Flash memory card inside the DataTraveler Reader.
Suggested prices are as follows ...
Part Number Description MSRP (US only - subject to change) DTCR/1GB 1GB USB drive & card reader $19.99 DTCR/2GB 2GB USB drive & card reader $34.99 DTCR/4GB 4GB* USB drive & card reader TBD
All 80 years of The New Yorker magazine...in your pocket Perhaps the only thing better than holding a New Yorker magazine in your hands is being able to hold every New Yorker in your hands. Every Talk of the Town. Each Profile. The many Shouts and Murmurs, reviews, theater news. All those wonderful covers, in color. And every one of those beloved cartoons.
Now all 4,164 issues and 500,000+ pages of The New Yorker, from its February 21, 1925 debut to April 2006, are available on one pocket-sized, USB-powered portable hard drive that's about the size of a PDA. You can take this treasury wherever you take your laptop or use your desktop PC or Mac. Enjoy the fastest, easiest access there is to the complete archives of America's grande dame of literary magazines.
Find virtually anything you're looking for, in any issue, thanks to an indexing system that's simple but thorough. Browse by cover, by author or department, year or week. Use keywords to find everything written about baseball. Find John Updike's first story, then all the Updikes. Browse chronologically through the cartoons of Ed Koren and Charles Addams, laughing as you go. Look up the weeks that loved ones were born and print out the pages, ads and all, for an especially meaningful gift.
If you love the magazine or simply enjoy world-class writing and humor, why not have your own personal archive of the definitive New Yorker. And you don't even need to find a room to hold it-it comes in a handsome, compact presentation box.
I would love to see similar hard drives available for Arabic newspapers and magazines. Would you love that?
SnoopStick: Monitor Internet Activity of Your Wife, Kids, & Employees
Suppose you don't trust your wife and kids to spend time by themselves using the internet. Or suppose you're dying to know what your employees are doing spending hours surfing the internet. Here is the best way to spy monitor web activities of those who live with you and don't trust.
SnoopStick is a USB flash drive type device that allows you to monitor what your kids, employees, or anyone using your computer is doing while on the Internet. And, you can monitor them live, in real time, from anywhere in the world.
Simply plug the SnoopStick into the computer you want to monitor. Then run the setup program to install the SnoopStick monitoring components on the computer. The whole process takes less than 60 seconds.
The SnoopStick monitoring components are completely hidden, and there are no telltale signs that the computer is being monitored.
You can then unplug the SnoopStick and take it with you anywhere you go. No bigger than your thumb and less than 1/4" thick, you can carry it in your pocket, purse, or on your keychain.
Any time you want to see what web sites your kids or employees are visiting, who they are chatting with, and what they are chatting about, simply plug in your SnoopStick to any Windows based computer with an Internet connection and a USB port. SnoopStick will automatically connect to the target computer.
Monitor both sides of IM conversations in real time or tell SnoopStick to display recent activity. Check the sender and recipient of every email sent or received. You can even log the user off, disable internet access, set time restrictions or even turn the computer off. All using your SnoopStick from any computer.
There are no commands to remember, no passwords to remember, just plug it in.
USB Micro Drive for MicroSD (T-Flash) is a tiny card reader which direct read and write MicroSD/T-Flash memory card. It turns your flash card into a Pen Drive! This super mini Micro Drive goes with your mobile life. Probably, the world's smallest MicroSD reader!
If your office workstation is stinky and you are so lazy to clean it up, then I got the solution for you ... Aroma USB!
Aroma USB is a USB fragrance dispenser. It provides a pleasant fragrant when plugged into a computer. Aroma USB can also become an economical, effective promotional novelty for marketing campaigns, trade fairs, conferences, giveaways.
Aroma USB comes in different styles and colors. It can be custom-printed with logo. Perfume options are also available. No word on pricing or availability but it seems the manufacturer is looking for dealers.
SanDisk Introduces USBTV: New Platform for Moving & Viewing Videos From PCs to TVs
SanDisk introduced USBTV, a new, industry-wide initiative that is expected to enable consumers to easily move digital content from their PCs to their televisions for viewing in full, big-screen comfort. The announcement was made during a press conference at the Consumer Electronics Show (CES), where the platform technology was demonstrated and several industry leaders announced their support for USBTV.
“We believe that USBTV represents an exciting new category of flash-based products that will bring digital downloading of video to a broad spectrum of new consumers who prefer viewing on their TV sets rather than on a PC screen,” said Eli Harari, SanDisk CEO. “USBTV has the potential to become an industry-transforming category as significant as the introduction of the DVD and VHS players, because in the convergence of the Web and home entertainment, USBTV solves in a simple, elegant way the ‘last 10 feet’ of the content portability problem in the home between the PC and the TV,” he said.
USBTV is an emerging standard for simple and secure transmission of digital content between computers and displays such as TVs, USBTV solves the challenge of conveniently moving video from the PC to the TV. The heart of the solution is a USBTV player, a compact consumer electronics device comprising:
Flash storage.
AV controller that decodes the video.
Software that manages the user interaction.
Connector between the USBTV player and the TV.
Remote control
To move video content from the PC to the TV, the consumer follows simple steps:
Downloads a video file onto the PC.
Plugs the USBTV player into a standard USB port on the PC, just as they would with any generic USB flash drive. The USBTV player requires no driver or specialized software installation and is compatible with all common operating systems.
Drags and drops the downloaded file onto the USBTV player.
Plugs the USBTV player into any of the supported inputs on the TV— their own TV or a friend’s.
Plays the video. The USBTV player automatically decodes the files and plays the video.
The price tag is €18,600 (US$24,700) and it comes with certificate of authenticity.
Tech Specs:
Modern 3-Button Optical Wheelmouse
Connection: USB with PS/2-Plug (suitable for PC and Mac)
Resolution: 800 dpi
3 years warranty
Pat Says Now is Switzerland's first manufacturer of individual computer mice. "We do not simply sell a product, but rather see the mouse as a personal accessory that can be changed to match any mood and style.", said the website of Pat Says Now. "We do not only create computer mice, we create personalities."
M-11 Copyboards with USB Memory & Print-Out Feature
(Link)
Speed is one of the most important factors in business, as it is in the case of business meetings. Using a M-11, you can distribute copies of the meeting minutes immediately after the meeting. Using USB memory function of the M-11, you can send the same information to everyone outside the meeting room at once. The M-11 is the fastest copyboard in the world and the advanced copyboard technology makes these operations much faster.
With the USB memory feature you can simply insert a USB flash memory into the M-11 and press the Save button on the control panel to save information and ideas written on the board to the flash memory. Like a digital camera, you can save images anytime you like without a personal computer. Stored as compact PNG image files, your data can be easily distributed when attached to emails and opened by recipients without the use of special software.
Corsair Flash Voyager: 16GB Water-Resistant USB Flash Drive
(Link)
Corsair Flash Voyager USB drives are rugged, stylish, compact, reliable, and fast. With data transfer rates up to 33MB/s read and 16MB/s write*, Flash Voyager drives are fully Hi-Speed plug and Play with most operating systems and are backward compatible with USB 1.1. Their durable rubber casing is easy to grip and water resistant. These highly portable drives are available in capacities ranging up to 16GB!
Plus the True Crypt security application lets you create a hidden, password-protected partition on your Flash Voyager.
Designed for users who demand the highest capacity drive currently available on the market, the new 16GB Flash Voyager can store up to 8 full- length, high definition movies with ease. 16GB of storage capacity is equivalent of close to 4 DVDs or over 20 CDs -- all in a small foot print USB design! The drive is also bootable, which means users can store a full version of Microsoft Windows and configure the PC to boot from USB. Combined with the large capacity of the drive, it allows IT managers and technology users to troubleshoot from station to station with all the applications and files necessary to perform desktop support.
The introduction MSRP of The 16GB Flash Voyager is $299 USD. Each drive is bundled with lanyard, security software/driver mini CD, and USB extension cable.
Ecosol PowerStick is a portable power source for portable devices like cellular phones, PDA's, MP3's and digital cameras. Charge it using any USB port and charge up your device whenever and wherever you need it. It can fully charge a Blackberry.
You will always know how much power in your Ecosol PowerStick with the fuel gauge display. The battery type is lithium polymer with an output voltage of 5V DC. The charge time is around 90 minutes and it weighs 40 grams. Charge input voltage is 4.5-5.5V.
ProScope HR: High Resolution USB Handheld Microscope
(Link)
One of the nice gadgets I have seen and tried in Dubai GITEX 2006 is the ProScope HR, the high resolution USB handheld microscope. Available with 10X-400X magnification lenses. The ProScope snaps 640-by-480 true-color digital images or 320-by-200 AVI movies. It's very easy to connect to your notebook via a USB port and it comes with a software.
The ProScope has many applications. A biologist might configure it as a Webcam to monitor experiments remotely or share its output with a colleague through NetMeeting. Rather than squinting through a microscope eyepiece, students can view an image together.
The ProScope HR unit price is ($249) and the lenses available are:
This is a USB powered CD shredder from Elecom. It does not break the CD into tiny pieces but instead uses a more practical approach. It scratches the CD making it totally unreadable. Just plug the device to your USB port place the CD turn on the switch and in under 5 seconds you have a Frisbee.
The Elecom SCR-CD001 is available in Japan for 3,150 Yen ($ 26).
It's worth mentioning here that there are other methods to destroy your CD or DVD like putting it for 10 sec into the microwave oven or rather shredding it in a multi purpose shredder.
The Trackstick Pro is a tiny GPS data logger capable of continuously recording its own location histories for extended periods of time.
This device is powered by an included cigarette lighter plug or can be hard wired to any vehicle. The Trackstick Pro is the perfect solution for companies and individuals looking a way to record and validate vehicle, shipping or truck routes. With 4Mbit of memory, the Trackstick Pro can log weeks or even months of travel histories. User selectable features allow the record time to be changed from a recording interval of every 5 seconds or from 1 minute up to every 60 minutes. A first in, first out memory map will continuously record while erasing the oldest location histories first.
The Trackstick Pro can be permanently mounted on a vehicle in plain sight, covertly installed or removed from the cradle and placed on the dashboard. An internal software alarm will time stamp any power interruptions and can be viewed when the data is downloaded. Measuring only 2 1/2"' X 2" X ¾”, the weatherproof case can be mounted via the cradle and screw pads. The Trackstick Pro records Date, Time, Location, Speed, Direction, Altitude, Signal Strength and Temperature, All information can be instantly "transferred" via the included USB cable and software. Mapping and reporting software is also included.
This revolutionary rechargeable battery can charge from any USB port without the need for any recharging devices, cradles or cables. Simply pop the lid to reveal a built in connector and charger, plug into any powered USB port on your desktop, laptop, keyboard or games console, to charge the battery. USBCell can be used exactly like a normal battery meaning there is now no need to purchase huge packs of alkaline batteries, or invest in or carry a clunky charger. Billions of USB ports are readily available in homes and workplaces around the world meaning you never need to run out of power and making the USBCELL extremely cost-effective and convenient for all battery-powered devices. Currently available in the AA format, the USBCELL will shortly comprise a full range of standard formats, phone and camera batteries.
USBCell by Moixa Energy was launched September 19th and already received some good reviewes like the one from TrustedReviews:
"I was frankly, amazed how long the batteries lasted and I was snapping pictures for what seemed like hours. After a while the camera finally flashed up the battery flat icon and shut down. I placed the Compact Flash card inside my card reader and was surprised to find that I’d taken a simply astonishing 563 pictures ... To compare I then tried a set of Duracell Alkaline batteries in the camera, only to find that they weren’t even strong enough to take more than a few pictures. It seems you need Duracall Plus or Ultra M3’s to deliver the amperage that a high power device such as a digital camera needs. This makes the USB Cells seems all the more impressive."
It's currently available in the UK for £12.99 (US $25.78) for 2-cell pack.
Zayed eBook: UAE Grade 12 Electronic School Books in USB Flash Drives
UAE students are now receiving the “e-Zayed book,” which is “technically a flash memory disk usable in any laptop or computer. A student can order any number of subjects taught in public schools to be included in the hand-held device…. The current product includes only the Grade 12 curriculum of public schools. The subjects include physics, chemistry, biology, mathematics, and Arabic and English languages. The objective is to ease the burden of carrying heavy books to school…”
Sawsan Al Rahma, Director of Zayed E-Book said: "The initiative aims at fostering the UAE's strategic plans towards creating an e-enabled society. Zayed E-Book is aligned with the UAE's education policies and is based on the curriculum endorsed by the Ministry of Education."
Zayed E-Book has signed a franchise agreement with the Educational Horizons Publishing & Distribution, holders of the Ministry of Education's copyright to publish and distribute books for government schools throughout the UAE.
Abdulla Khalifa Al Qubaisi, CEO of Educational Horizons said: "This initiative will be a turning point in education methodologies followed in our schools. The prospects to develop the e-project and widen its scope to include other curricula are high. We look forward to receiving feed back from students, their families and teachers."
A whole school book in a flash drive? That's a nifty idea. For information about online school books, take a gander at our site! Perhaps you are interested in going after a job in IT. There is much to learn about getting an online education in Information Technology, so you can live your desires. also, locate school grants to enable your success.
Microsoft Office RoundTable: 360-Degree Conferencing Camera
Microsoft Office RoundTable is a communications device consisting of a 360-degree camera and unified communications software. When combined with Microsoft Office Communications Server 2007, Office RoundTable delivers an immersive conferencing experience that extends the meeting room across multiple locations. RoundTable and Communications Server 2007 provide meeting participants, including those in remote locations, with a panoramic view of everyone in the conference room and a close-up view of individual participants, triggered by the voice of the active speaker.
RoundTable has built-in microphones that capture audio content. The console enables all meeting content to be recorded, indexed and archived for playback, transforming meetings into reusable corporate assets.
The Tornado: USB Transfer Files Between Two PCs
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The Tornado is a device that enables the copy and transfer of all types of data files via USB ports within seconds of plugging it in. Once connected to each PC The Tornado automatically displays both hard drives on the screen, enabling the user to locate and copy files to and from each system.
The Tornado is pocket sized and it operates at USB 2.0 speeds. It has retractable cables allowing it to be easily carried anywhere and can transfer files with speed up to 25 Mb/sec
The Tornado PC-to-PC Transfer tool costs (US $59.95) and can be ordered online at www.thetornado.com
For all obsessed Star Wars fans & USB flash drives fans, here comes the moment you've all been waiting for .... Star Wars USB Flash Drives!
Mimoco, in collaboration with Lucasfilm Ltd., presents Star Wars mimobot Series 1 Designer USB Flash Drives!!!
This holiday season, two of your favorite galaxies will collide to create four awesome Star Wars Mimobot crossover characters. Each are available in 1, 2, & 4GB capacities and will come preloaded with bonus removable Star Wars Mimobot content like trailers, soundbites, avatars, and wallpapers!
Series 1 of this limited edition Mimobot collection, arriving January 2007, includes Darth Vader who is now open for preorders! The prices are listed below:
Mahr Federal MarConnect USB Interface For Data Transmission To PCs
A new USB hub system from Mahr Federal makes connecting gages with computers a simple matter of 'plug and play.' The new MarConnect USB interface kits provide all the elements needed to make quick, universal assemblies of multiple measuring systems for data transmission. MarConnect kits include data connection cables, a seven-port industrial model USB hub (although any approved USB hub device will suffice) and new MarCom data transmission software.
"Long term, we feel USB is the way to go for data collection," said George Schuetz, Director of Precision Gages for Mahr Federal in Providence, RI. "While connection via RS-232 multiplexer boxes is still the norm in industry, more and more computers are doing away with RS-232 ports and replacing them with USB ports. USB hubs are less costly than multiplexer boxes," he added.
With additional hubs, up to 100 measuring devices can be connected using the MarConnect USB interface, and data acquisition is simplified with MarCom software. Measuring sequences can be activated either at the gage, on the connected PC, or via a foot switch also available with MarConnect. Measuring instruments can be freely assigned and are clearly identified with MarCom icons.
Measured values can be directly transferred to either MS Excel spreadsheets, or into a text file.
Merriam-Webster USB Dictionary & Thesaurus Portable Storage Drive
This would make a nice gift to students starting their new academic year. USB Dictionary and Thesaurus offers the convenience of electronic file storage and instant access to 300,000 definitions and 500,000 synonyms & antonyms from Merriam-Webster Dictionary & Franklin Thesaurus.
The USB Drive is preloaded with:
256 MB Total Memory
Dictionary with 300,000 definitions
Thesaurus with 500,000 synonyms & antonyms
Phonetic spell correction allows you to enter a word the way it sounds, and your dictionary automatically provides alternatives for misspelled words - type in "nolige" and see "knowledge."
Grammar Guide offers instant access to essential information on grammar rules and usage.
Confusables function alerts you when one word might be confused with another (their vs. there vs. they're) by providing spellings and meanings.
Crossword Puzzle Solver to determine missing puzzle letters.
I've been always a big fan of Garmin GPS products and map softwares. One of the best GPS units I have ever owned is (Garmin GPSMAP 60CS). I loved that GPS unit. The only weakness of GPSMAP 60CS is the limited 56 MB of internal memory for storing map details.
The bad news is that GPSMAP 60CS is discontinued. The good news is its great replacement, Garmin GPSMAP 60CSx.
The GPSMAP 60CSx is a refreshing upgrade of the GPSMAP 60CS, one of our most popular models for outdoor and marine use. This unit features a removable microSD card for detailed mapping memory and a waterproof, rugged housing. The microSD card slot is located inside the waterproof battery compartment. Users can load map data and transfer routes and waypoints through the unit’s fast USB connection.
In addition, this unit features a new, highly sensitive GPS receiver that acquires satellites faster and lets users track their location in challenging conditions, such as heavy foliage or deep canyons. The GPSMAP 60CSx also incorporates a barometric altimeter for extremely accurate elevation data and an electronic compass that displays an accurate heading while standing still.
I totally recommend Garmin GPSMAP 60CSx for everybody. I can say this from my experience. I have been a long time user of GPSMAP 60CS and I have used it both in the US and in the UAE.
The package comes with 64MB microSD and the retail price is US $535.70
UPDATE (10/28/06): I just found out that you can find GPSMAP 60CSx in Sharaf DG L.L.C in Ibn Batuta Mall in Dubai. They sell it for AED 1,900 (US $517). Their phone number is 04-3685115. Thank you Noura Al Mazam.
Another gadget you can plug into your desktop or laptop USB port that can be considered to be somehow "useful".
USB Mini Vacuum With Retractable Cable allows you to clear the dust in those places which are difficult to clean on your desk. Retractable cable avoids tangle of cables. 2 in 1 cleaning tool prevents loss of vacuum cleaning attachments. Here comes together with a bright LED light which lets you focus on the cleaning place.
There are two working modes for this vacuum cleaner, Normal Stage (DC+5V at 18,000 RPM) and Turbo Stage (DC +5V at 24,000 RPM). The cost of one unit is only (US $14).
Toshiba announced yesterday in Tokyo the forthcoming introduction of TransMemory USB Flash Memories that will bring U3 platform technology into the company's USB lineup and introduce a special-edition high-capacity USB memory. The four models in the TransMemory U3 series will be launched on the global market at the end of November, while the TransMemory 16GB Limited Edition will be available from the end of December, exclusively through Toshiba's online shop.
The TransMemory 16GB Limited Edition meets demand for large-capacity data storage with its 16GB capacity. It also supports a password-based security protection system for USB memories that can be downloaded for free from Pocket Media, Toshiba's memory card information site. Toshiba will continue to introduce large capacity models into the TransMemory lineup and make them available in the world market.
The new TransMemory series will be exhibited at the IFA 2006, the world's largest consumer electronics trade fair, which will be held at Berlin, Germany, from September 1 to 6, 2006.
Sony Electronics announced Tuesday August 1st a GPS device that puts your pictures on the map.
Using time and location recordings from Sony’s GPS-CS1 GPS device and the time stamp from a Sony digital still camera or camcorder, photo buffs can plot their digital images to a map and pinpoint exactly where they’ve been.
The 12-channel GPS unit is 3-½ inches long, weighs two ounces, and is sold with a carabineer to easily attach to a backpack or a belt loop.
“Whether you’re traveling to the Seven Wonders of the World, or just wondering where to buy your next house, our new GPS device can track your journey,” said David Johns, product manager for digital camera accessories at Sony Electronics. “Adding a geographic context to your digital images helps organize and make use of your photos in entirely new ways.”
To arrange your pictures geographically, import the logged data from the GPS device, using the supplied USB cable, and then download the digital images to a computer. The supplied GPS Image Tracker software synchronizes the images on your digital camera with the latitude, longitude and time readings from the GPS-CS1 device.
Once synchronized, your photos can become virtual push pins on an online map by activating the Picture Motion Browser software bundled with the latest Sony cameras and camcorders released after July. You can easily add new photos and coordinates to the mapping web site, courtesy of Google Maps, and showcase years of globe-trotting.
The GPS-CS1 GPS device will be available next month for about $150 at sonystyle.com, at Sony Style retail stores.
007 USB Flash Drive: Combination Of Digital Security With Mechanical Security
It is a great design and a good example of how to combine digital security with mechanical security to protect your data in a USB flash drive.
First, this 007 USB Flash Drive is physically secured with an analogue security of a bike lock. Not only that this lock covers the USB port, but also ties the lock to an object (like a desk) via a steel cable.
Now if someone managed to guess the three digits combination of the security lock, then he has next to break through the second level of security which is the software password to access the data.
Don't start looking to purchase the 007 USB Flash Drive online. This USB Flash Drive is just a design concept and it's not a reality yet ... so you will not find this anywhere in any store. Maybe one day this design will be adobted and converted into a reality.
The Attractive, Inviting & Dangerous Self Destruction Button USB Hub
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The Self Destruction Button USB hub comes with four ports in the back for all your USB-connectivity goodness, but the main draw comes from all the stuff on top. There's two flickable switches, a turnable key, and a protected self-destruct button!
But don't let your imaginations go wild ... all you get by pressing the middle button is a "Kill Kill Kill" audio file from your computer. Disappointing, huh? Believe me, it is better this way. You don't want someone purposly wipe out your hard drive by pressing this attractive and inviting button, do you?
The Self Destruct Button USB hub is available online at GeekStuff4U.com for $62 plus $25 shipping
SanDisk To Acquire msystems For $1.55 Billion In Stock
Sunday July 30th 2006, SanDisk and msystems entered into definitive agreements for SanDisk to acquire msystems in an all stock transaction ($1.55 Billion).
“SanDisk and msystems, over the past 18 years, have been leading innovators in the flash storage market. This strategic acquisition will give us the critical mass and complementary products, customers, channels, technology and manufacturing base to take our shared vision to the next level. The NAND flash data storage business is in its early stages and we believe the market opportunity is largely untapped,” said Eli Harari, Chairman and CEO of SanDisk. “msystems is a leader in flash memory systems addressing mobile, portable and embedded markets and they have a strong team, significant IP and important OEM customers. SanDisk has a record of creating new market categories, world-class manufacturing capabilities and leading market share in the retail channel. Both companies are noted for their relentless innovation, and this acquisition is intended to further accelerate our pace of innovation. In the near term, this transaction better positions SanDisk to serve the expanding storage needs of handset manufacturers and mobile network operators. In the long term, the combination with msystems will be a catalyst in the development of next generation flash enabled consumer applications. We are extremely excited about joining forces with the msystems team to achieve our shared vision. We are committed to serving msystems’ OEM customers after the transaction closes.”
“From mDOC to megaSIM, from U3 to x4, msystems is creating new markets through innovation,” said Dov Moran, President and Chief Executive Officer of msystems. “We are truly proud of our achievements to date. This strategic deal will enable us to continue supporting our OEM customers, to whom we remain fully committed, and strengthen our innovation and product offering with SanDisk’s leading edge, low-cost fab capacity. This deal has synergy at its core, encompassing people, technology, products and customers. Based on our shared vision, as well as our teams’ history of successful and fruitful cooperation, I am confident we can succeed in achieving the goals we set for ourselves. I also believe that SanDisk’s extensive silicon expertise will prove itself as a strong catalyst to productizing our revolutionary x4 technology as well as other future innovations.”
Worth mentioning that SanDisk & msystems were the two main companies backing the new U3 platform for USB flash drives since it's been founded in 2004.
Taipei, Taiwan, June 10th, 2006 –– Pretec Electronics Corp. has started shipping a new ruggedized USB flash drive, i-Disk BulletProof, which is not only waterproof and fireproof, but also bulletproof.
In case all the current security features available for USB flash drives is not enough for you to feel secure about your data ... or in case you're a secret agent and the nature of your work is somehow similar to James Bond or Ethan Hunt, then you might think seriously about ordering Pretec Bulletproof USB Flash Drive.
Capacities ranging from 32MB to 2GB, PRETEC i-Disk BulletProof is constructed with double layers of sealed protective metal, capable of preventing circuit damage from water, fire, and even shielding the heavy impact of a bullet, making i-Disk BulletProof the most rugged USB flash drive in the world.
In addition to its ruggedness and small size, i-Disk BulletProof also features blazing access speed, up to 20MB/s. Pretec can also custom design a premium version of i-Disk BulletProof under special arrangement that can achieve a speed of 266X, up to 40MB/s, the highest speed of USB flash drive in the world.
Optional Security features such as password protection, encryption, write protection, and/or pre-defined or user-defined auto-execute files for identification purpose giving each USB flash drive its own unique ID distinguishable by audio or video effect every time the USB flash drive is plugged into a computer (function of Pretec i-Disk Mine) can also be added to i-Disk BulletProof when necessary making it ideal for commercial/industrial or even military applications where not only the information stored is of paramount importance, but also the ruggedness and security are critical consideration factors.
Pretec i-Disk BulletProof is shipping now to a selective number of customers including specialized e-tailers around the world. The price has not been announced yet ...
Remember SanDisk Profile? Well, this one is smaller and offered with up to 2GB of memory storage.
Buffalo released on Wednesday July 12th the RUF2-FS USB Key memory with integrated fingerprint censore in order to secure all your data. Buffalo RUF2-FS USB Drive is available with 2GB of memory (Max) with a body of 27x77x15mm for 19g.
And according to TechEBlog, the prices for the USB units are: 256MB ($103) 512MB ($155) 1GB ($216) 2GB ($413)
The USB drives will be available in Japan next month.
OCZ Ultra-Slim Mini-Kart USB 2.0 Flash Drive
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On April 12, 2006, OCZ announced the Mini-Kart USB 2.0 Flash Drive. The ultra-slim design of the Mini-Kart makes data storage and transferring easier and more portable than ever! With dimensions of 43mm x 19mm x 2.8mm (L x W x H), you can easily carry this drive in your wallet.
The OCZ 2GB Mini-Kart flash drive is backed by a 3 year warranty and available from Newegg for (US $50.99) and the 1GB for (US $27.99).
MediStick: Your Medical Records Ready For Emergency
(Link)
Another day ... another new application for a flash drive ...
Now this can be very useful USB Flash Drive to carry around (maybe around your neck!). MediStick is the world's first personal multilingual medical record device.
The basic idea behind the MediStick is to carry your current medical history around with you so doctors can treat you quickly if you're in an accident or have a medical emergency.
The software solution in memory stick format contains your blood group, allergies, current medication and any current health conditions) and administrative data such as your name, date of birth, next of kin contact information and family doctor contact numbers as well as health care insurance details.
The software also contains a password protected area for storing your more sensitive data. It makes sense that we should seek to develop a standard for this type of device, though we suspect that the MediStick would not help much in most countries as the doctors could not legally trust the device.
Visit the MediStick website to view a demo of the software.
USB Car & Computer Air Purifier From INOVIX
(Link)
Another new application for a USB ... now you can use your PC USB port to insert this new gadget to purify your computer air. And if you are using a laptop in your car, then you can use it to purify the air in your car (weird). The new USB is available from INOVIX. The following is what INOVIX said the USB can do ....
Circulates millions of negative ions inside of your Car or open area in the home or office
Remove many types of particles & pollutant, including airborne dust , harmful allergic such as pollen, pet dander & smoke particles efficiently
Eliminate the cigarette smoke thoroughly
Collect microscopic contamnants in the air
Destroy micro-organisms such as germs,viruses,bacteria
Microsoft Said To Develop U3/Ceedo -Like Flash Disk Drive Platform
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Microsoft is said to have partnered with the USB Implementers Forum (USB-IF) on the development of an U3-like flash disk platform, according to industry sources. The available platform is said to be available in June at the earliest, the sources noted.
Das Keyboard II: Blank Keyboard With Mechanical Gold-Plated Key Switches
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Daniel Guermeur, founder of Metadot Corporation, an open source software company, has invented Das Keyboard. Why? He felt the only way to improve his typing was to stop looking at the keys thus having a blank keyboard would be the ultimate answer.
Each key od Das Keyboard II is supported on top of a mechanical, gold-plated switch, which, when typed on, creates a very clicky sounding keyboard, much like an old IBM Model M keyboard. This type of high-end tactile feedback may be comfortable, but the noise may be a nuisance to you or those around you.
The Das Keyboard is also unique in that it has five weight categories for different keys that require different amount of pressure to press depending on the finger that accesses that key. For instance, the force at which we press the Spacebar is much greater than the force we use to press the Q key. Five categories of key pressure range from 35 grams to 80 grams, with the Q requiring 35g and the Spacebar requiring 80g.
These high-end keys are built to withstand up to 50 million keystrokes, compared with 10 to 15 million keystrokes for standard membrane keys, according to Metadot, the company that manufactures the Das Keyboard.
Metadot claims that your typing speed will improve up to 100% within a few short weeks. Das Keyboard is a USB keyboard, compatible with Windows, MacOS X and Linux. Das Keyboard has a Windows menu key that also works under Linux.
"Das keyboard doubled my typing speed and makes me way more productive. I probably save dozens of minutes per day. Just imagine how much more productivity and free time I get in a year!", said Daniel Guermeur.
Maxtor Introduces Maxtor OneTouch III Mini Edition
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Maxtor yesterday announced it is shipping the new Maxtor OneTouch III Mini Edition drive, the company's first small form factor external storage solution. Weighing in at approximately seven ounces, it is the first mobile storage solution that comes fully loaded with a software to protect and manage digital content, including automated backup, data encryption, data synchronization and system rollback to restore applications and operating system while keeping digital files current.
"With the fast rise of mobile computing, our retailers are eager to supply the market with sleek and trusted storage for people on the go," said Mike Williams, vice president and general manager, Maxtor Branded Products Group. "The Maxtor OneTouch III Mini Edition provides a high level of security for mobile users, along with some innovative software features that make it easier to manage and protect files."
The new Maxtor OneTouch III Mini Edition comes with two levels of security against unauthorized use - Maxtor DriveLock™ and Encryption. It also has the feature of automatic synchronization of two or more computer’s data. As for capacity, it's either 60GB or 100GB with maximum transfer rate of 33MB/sex (USB 2.0).
Currently available at major U.S. retailers, distributors and online stores, as well as at http://www.maxstore.com, the manufacturer's suggested retail price (MSRP) for the 60GB is $149.95 and $199.95 for the 100GB.
Octave Multipod 5-in-1 USB Discontinued & No Longer Available
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What a sad news! I was shocked and saddened to find out that one of my favorite USB gadgets has been discontinued and no longer going to be manufactured and available for sale. I've been using Octave Multipod 5-in-1 USB for over 9 months now and you can see that all Fahad Inc. Flickr pictures has been taken by this amazing camera (If you are in UAE, then you cannot view Flickr since it has been blocked by USE Etisalat). The following are sample pictures I have taken using it. Click to view the true image size (640x480):
Just little over a month ago, I bought another Multipod because I received a great offer ... and am I glade I took that offer! It is still brand new in its original sealed box. I think I will keep this as a souvenir <:) I bought my first Multipid for about (US $100) ...
HAI Snap-Link USB Key To Access HAI Home Control System Over The Internet
(Link)
Another amazing application for a USB key. Thanks to Ivan from (Preview Gadgets) for bringing this to my attention.
Snap-Link is a USB key that plugs into any computer and directly communicates through the secure Ethernet port on an HAI home control system giving homeowners the ability to check and adjust lights, security, temperatures, and more. No on site computer is required. Snap-Link offers the ability to access webcams but does not have the sophisticated video surveillance recording capabilities of HAI’s Web-Link II. It is compatible with HAI’s Omni IIe, OmniPro II, Lumina, and Lumina Pro controllers.
Snap-Link will be shipping in the second quarter of this year.
“Snap-Link is perfect for people on the go,” explains HAI President Jay McLellan. “It’s a fast, easy and highly secure way to control your home from your laptop or PC.”
If you have already purchased the $5,000 (BUSlink 64GB USB 2.0 Flash Drive Pro 2), then I'm sorry to say that you have paid too much! Now you can purchase the same storage capacity with 56% of that price .... only (US $2,800)!
The Kanguru Flash Drive Max comes complete with KanguruShield security software, allowing Windows users the option of password protection for secure data. The KanguruShield software allows users to resize and format the flash drive space into public and/or private partitions.
Not tool long ago, Iocell Korea introduced Celldisk 16GB Flash Drive claiming to be the largest flash drive ever built. Looks like Iocell could not keep this title for too long. BUSlink, the company behind the first 8GB Flash Drive in the world, has recently announced the first 64GB USB Flash Drive!!!
The retail price for the new (BUSlink 64GB USB 2.0 Flash Drive Pro 2) is ($4,999.99)! What can you do with a $5,000 64GB USB flash drive? Run an OS from it? Download all your emails from Gmail to it as a backup? Backup all your (My Documents) in your laptop hard drive? But above all, would it worth buying a $5,000 storage stick? You can buy external hard drives like 1TB Maxtor OneTouch™ III Turbo Edition for ($900) or less ... or 2TB LaCie Bigger Disk Extreme with Triple Interface for ($1,870) or less ...
I've been waiting for the release of the promised (Dell XPS 600 Renegade) for few weeks now, and now it's finally out! I have received an email from Dell Tuesday evening (9:03 pm Central Time) telling me it's finally available for purchase.
The following are the specs of the new Dell's Renegade:
Limited quantities available.
NVIDIA® Quad SLITM Technology with 4 GeForce® 7900 Graphics processing units - 2GB total graphics memory.
Microsoft® Windows® XP professional edition.
NVIDIA® NForce® 4 SLITM MCP Chipset.
Intel® Pentium® Extreme Edition Dual-Core Processor with Hyper Threading - Facory overlocked up to 4.26GHz with a 1-year warranty from Dell.
Sound Blaster X-FI FATAL1TYTM Sound Card plus front-side controller.
Dual Western Digital "Raptor" 160GB Raid 0 10,000 RPM Hard Drives plus a Western Digital 400GB 7200 RPM Hard Drive.
2GB Dual-Channel DDR2 SDRAM at 667MHz (Low Latency), 2DIMM Slots.
Costom paint job by renowned automative artist Mike Lavallee of Killer Paint.
Signed by Michael Dell & Mike Lavallee.
Pimped out with additional hardware from Logitech®, Plextor®, Saitek®, & Klipsch®.
1 year limited warranty with one-site service and XPS premium support from Dell, including designated E-mail, chat and phone support.
Ceedo: Working Environment For Your USB Flash Drive
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Similar to U3 Smart Technology, Ceedo is a Portable Working Environment. Ceedo is compact and takes only about 2 MB of space. I first knew about Ceedo through my weblog (Verbatim Store 'n' Go USB Hard Drive). Ceedo works on any USB flash drive and requires 5MB of disk on removable drive.
You can download Ceedo for free and try it on your USB flash drive for free for 30 days. If you decide to keep it, the cost will be $39.95
What is so special about this USB HD? Verbatim adds a special feature here which is Mobile Launchpad. When you blug this USB Drive, a Ceedo Easy-Access Menu will appear and you will have a window similar to Windows XP menu.
Ceedo is a personal, portable working environment loaded from the USB drive and ready to be used on any PC when it's blugged in it. I don't know how to compare Ceedo to the U3 technology. I think I will talk about Ceedo in more details in a separate blog :)
All I can say now is that the Ceedo Easy-Access Menu allows you to run programs directly from your Ceedo drive, and to easily access your documents and files.
Memorex FlashDisc™: USB Flash Drive For Everybody!
(Link)
Very cute idea from Memorex to spread the use of USB flash drives to everybody with amazing cheap price. It would make a great gift for school students.
Memorex yesterday announced the availability of the world’s first shareable, flash-based USB storage media. The Memorex FlashDesc package consists of 3 USB FlashDescs with a capacity of 16MB each. The Memorex FlashDisc is ideal for trading photos with friends and family, or sharing data within groups at the office, in a classroom, in the computer lab or the library. The hard exterior also makes it a more durable way to send presentations and photos through the mail.
Memorex FlashDisc is now available at Best Buy in a package of three multi-colored 16MB FlashDiscs for a suggested retail price of $19.99 USD.
WiebeTech Mini USBDock: Make Your Desktop Hard Drive USB Accessible
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I think I finally found the solution for my problem of getting rid of my old desktop PC. I was looking for a way to be able to use my old desktop's hard drives externally. Of course there are other ways, but with WiebeTech Mini USBDock it can be much easier :)
With WiebeTech Mini USBDock, you can attach SATA 1 or 2 drives to your computer via a single USB cable and transfer data at up to 480 Mbps. The new mini Dock is small in size and made of rugged aluminum. It uses +12V DC adapter (included) and include a power switch for safe power up and down of the drive. You can easily monitor status with three indicators for power attached, power on and power access.
This how WiebeTech describes the Mini USBDock:
"Use mini Docks just as you would use a standard external drive. Retrieve data, copy information from drive to drive or access many drives quickly. View or download the entire drive volume with the same performance as any external drive. Using it is easy! Attach power, attach the drive, connect to your computer with the appropriate cable, and read/write/ access the drive's data just as if it were inside the computer. "
Atiz BookDrive: World First Desktop-Sized, Automatic Page-Turning Scanner
(Link)
I guess I have missed this one from this year's Consumer Electronics Show 2006. I talked before about Kirtas' APT BookScan 1200™: World's Fastest Book Scanner, but this is really different and much smaller. Atiz BookDrive is just like any traditional flatbed scanners that you are familiar with, but BookDrive is unique in that it has an automatic page-turning mechanism inside. Simply entering the number of pages you want to scan, BookDrive then automatically outputs the entire content of the scanned book in a digital format without requiring constant supervision and interference.
At 100 DPI BookDrive can scan 248 pages per hour in color and 500 per hour in black and white. Atiz BookDrive is designed for people with small businesses, libraries, copy centers or colleges, the BookDrive is scheduled to be available in March for a price ranging from $40,000 to $50,000. It is made by Atiz Innovation of Los Angeles.
The 512MB JumpDrive: 15MB per second Read (100X) and 12MB per second Write (80X). Retaile Price US $59.99
The 1GB JumpDrive: 22MB per second Read (140X) and 15MB per second Write (100X). Retaile Price US $119.99
The 2GB JumpDrive: 24MB per second Read (140X) and 18MB per second Write (100X). Retaile Price US $179.99
The new JumpDrive allows you to create password-protected and public areas. The Public area has no password protection and is accessible by anyone using the JumpDrive. The Private area is password-protected so no one can open, copy or write files to the drive without entering the correct password.
I can say that I'm very impressed with the advertised specifications of the new (Lexar JumpDrive Lightning) and I look forward to try one of these myself.
There many other uses for a USB port other than for connecting a flash drive or to hook up a mouse or printer. There many other ways to use USB ports and have so much fun at the same time :) Click at the (www.funusb.com) to see what I mean.
USB Admin Pro 1.1: Protect Your PC From Unwanted Removable Media
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USB Admin Pro is an application that effectively restricts Removable Media. It not only restricts the media and displays a warning screen message, but will also record log files locally and centrally. It will also send out critical email alerts, notifying you of someone trying to use one.
Another advantage is that you can give specific removable drives full access to any computer. For example, if you have a systems support staff, and they have thumb drives with drivers or software on them, you can enable their drives to work in any restricted computer. They won't even have to logoff or enter any passwords to use them on any computer. They would simply insert their disk, and start working. Anyone else trying to use their own disk will be greeted with an alert informing them that their removable media is not allowed, restricting use of their drive instantly.
I have spent some time with this new software to test how effective it is. I found it working very effectively and not allowing unauthorized USB drives to get access your PC data. The only thing I noticed is that when you insert an unauthorized USB, the PC will continue trying to access the USB. From my experience with USB drives, I don't recommend that someone pulls his USB from the PC when he get the warning message. This might damage the USB, unless the USB belongs to an intruder then you don't really care.
Torpark 1.0: Turn Any Internet Terminal Into A Secure Connection
(Link)
I have tried it myself and I liked what I saw. You can download TorPark for your language, and put it on a USB Flash keychain. Plug it into any internet terminal whether at home, school, or public. Run Torpark.exe and it will launch a Tor circuit connection, which creates an encrypted tunnel from your computer indirectly to a Tor exit computer, giving the appearance of having the Tor exit computer's IP.
This is how it works according to TorPark website:
"Torpark is a fully configured combination of Tor (The Onion Router) and Mozilla's browser technologies. Both programs are in the zip files, fully configured. Just unzip them to a flash drive and run the setup file. This won't work for a CD because Tor needs a local directory to write to. Since you don't want to leave tracks on the computer you are using, Tor is set to write to their local directory. And since a CD can't readily be written to, the program will terminate. Once you are running, it may not bring up the start page correctly the first time, just hit the "Home" button. We would also like to encourage all non-Chinese to allow Tor servers to run on their internet connection."
I encourage you to try it .... You can download it for your own language. I should mention that Torpark 2.0 is coming soon.
Every wondered how many clicks have you made with your mouse while working or rather surfing the net? Now you can! With SolidAlliance's USB Click Counter Mouse can help you keep track of your clicks ... just for the sake of knowing when you have been clicking too much!
This is something new for me. Now you can track your family, employees or even shipments using this small TrackStick. The TrackStick is powered by a pair of AA batteries, has a mini-GPS inside records time, date, location, speed, direction and altitude at preset intervals. It receives signals from 24 satellites orbiting our planet. The built-in 1MB memory allows months of travel information, which can be exported to RTF, XLS, HTML or KML to a PC via USB port. The data then can be simulated using Google Earth, MapQuest, Microsoft Streets or other mapping services.
I found TrackStick being sold in the net for US $249.00
The popular Swiss Army penknife, which some would say has attained almost cult status, is now available with USB stick in the rubyRED and retroALOX versions with a 2 GB storage capacity. This is in addition to the normal tools such as scissors, knife, nail file with screw driver and, in the rubyRED version, also LED light and ballpoint pen. For ease of handling and when traveling by air, the USB storage device can simply be detached.
The new 2GB version is available from February. The recommended retail price including VAT is € 192.00 for the rubyRED and € 186.00 for the retroALOX.
Belkin CableFree USB Hub Enables Instant Wireless Connectivity of USB Devices
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Belkin announces its new CableFree USB Hub, the industry’s first USB Hub that does not require a cable to connect to the computer. This Hub allows people to place their laptop anywhere in the room while still maintaining wireless access to their USB devices, such as printers, scanners, hard drives, and MP3 players. This is the first UWB-enabled product to be introduced in the U.S. market. The CableFree USB Hub’s wireless functionality is enabled by Freescale Semiconductor’s Ultra-Wideband technology.
Beginning in early spring 2006, Belkin will offer a four-port hub that will enable immediate high-speed wireless connectivity for any USB device without requiring software. The CableFree USB Hub gives desktop computer users the freedom to place their USB devices anywhere in the room without running long cables. Laptop users gain the freedom to roam wirelessly with their laptop around the room while still maintaining access to their stationary USB devices.
The simple and effective tool for blocking access to a computers USB port!
With this neat little device, system administrators can physically prevent users from connecting Pen Drives, MP3 Players and other USB Mass Storage Devices to their computers to copy data, introduce viruses etc.
The USB Port Lock is made up of a combined ‘key’ and ‘lock’ assembly which plugs into the USB port. To use, simply plug the ‘keylock’ into the port and release the latch - the lock remains in place! Plug the key back into the lock to remove. Easy!
The CoolIT USB Beverage Chiller is the only way to keep your drink cold while you’re at your computer. And it looks cool on any desktop!
The next must-have computer accessory is here. With the USB Beverage Chiller at your side, you can keep your beverage chilled and stay at your computer longer.
Just seconds after plugging the chiller into your computer’s USB port (no external outlet needed), the coldplate chills to 45 degrees Fahrenheit, the perfect temperature for keeping your beverage chilled.
Plugs into your computer’s USB port
Coldplate chills to 45˚F
Keeps your beverage cold
Is this a "Must Have" PC accessory or what? What do you think?
Memsen Click N' Share, PhoneDrive, ActiveDrive, FileLinker, & VaccineDrive Flash USB Drives
(Link)
Take a look at this line of Memsen Flash Drives. Memsen is showing new creative ways to use a Flash Drive in addition to being the normal storage media:
Memsen Click N' Share: allowing consumers to store, retrieve, and share digital information without the need for a PC.
Memsen PhoneDrive: makes it possible to make Free PC-to-PC calls, with storage capacity for your computer files.
Memsen ActiveDrive: allows you to create a familiar computing environment (same as home or office) from any PC anywhere.
Memsen FileLinker: allows you to freely copy, delete, and create files or data from any remote computer system to your local computer and vise versa.
Memsen VaccineDrive: combines the latest anti-virus engine in a USB Flash Drive. When user transfers file from computer to Vaccinedrive or vice versa, embedded engine checks any harmful viruses. It removes All spyware and adware from computer and Vaccinedrive.
Royal Consumer Information Products announced at the 2006 Consumer Electronic Show in Las Vegas, NV the launch of a brand new category of innovative USB 2.0 Flash/Jump drives with a scrollable window display enabling consumers to view stored file names without a computer connection. On-the-go consumers can now easily ensure they are traveling with the right storage disks.
At their display in the Consumer Electronics Show, Computer accessory company Digital Innovations has revealed the SecurityDR Data Guard Thumbdrive Lock, a combination lock for USB keys.
The SecurityDR™ Data Guard™ is the perfect accessory tor fighting the war against identity theft. Compact and easy to use, the Data Guard™ locks onto any standard USB thumbdrive and prevents unwanted use or viewing of confidential files. The Data Guard™ features a rugged metal design, as well as a user-settable, 3-dial combination lock that, once engaged, prevents unwanted access to your thumbdrive. The Data Guard™’s portable design enables you to take it everywhere you take your thumbdrive.
The Data Guard fits right onto any USB Plug, securely locking it in place. Anyone who doesn't know the lock's three-digit combination can't access the thumbdrive's plug without possibly damaging it. The Data Guard costs US$15.
Besides capacity increase and the upcoming introduction of mass market perpendicular recording, there is typically very little excitement that hard drive storage manufacturers can contribute to consumer electronics. Still, Seagate surprised with two interesting concepts that simply make sense.
On Seagate display at the Consumer Electronics Show was a 1.8-inch harddrive, encased in a shiny aluminum casing that was equipped with a Wireless USB chipset. The device was functional, but the only prototype Seagate has built so far. According to Rob Pait, director of global consumer electronics marketing for the company, W-USB are very short in supply and pretty much are hand built. He mentioned that Seagate had received the W-USB chipset used in the drive on display was received by his company around Christmas time.
While mass production is expected to be about 12 months away, the concept is very convincing. The drive can be accessed from any portable device with W-USB capability, which is likely to be also offered for today's devices in the shape of PC, USB sticks or multifunctional memory cards.
Pretec Introduces The 4GB i-Disk Touch: The Largest Capacity Fingerprint USB Flash Drive in the World
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Pretec Electronics Corp., has announced yesterday the largest capacity fingerprint USB flash storage device in the world today; “i-Disk Touch”, a multi-function 4GB USB flash storage device with fingerprint biometrics security, at the 2006 International CES.
SanDisk Introduces Cruzer Crossfire USB Smart Drives For Console And PC Video Gaming
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SanDisk® Corporation today introduced a gaming-oriented USB smart drive – the SanDisk Cruzer Crossfire™ – to serve the needs of console and PC video gamers. The announcement was made at the Consumer Electronics Show (CES), where SanDisk is demonstrating several new products at Booth 30329, Level 3 of the South Hall in the Las Vegas Convention Center.
The SanDisk Cruzer Crossfire will be available in four color-coded capacities: 512 megabytes (MB) in green, 1 gigabyte (GB) in white, 2GB in black and 4GB* in blue. The drive comes with an attractive metallic lanyard that attaches to a snap-on cap. When connected to a USB-enabled device, the Crossfire’s indicator light pulses lime-green.
SanDisk Adds "U3 Smart" USB Flash Drives To Its Cruzer Line So Consumers Can Take Their "Personal Workspace" with Them
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New SanDisk Cruzer Titanium
New SanDisk Cruzer Cruzer
This is another announcement and another surprise from SanDisk during the CES show in Las Vegas.
SanDisk® Corporation today announced a significant enhancement to its line of award-winning Cruzer® Micro and Cruzer Titanium USB flash drives. The two models feature a sleek new design and include software that turns them into ‘U3 smart drives’ so users can access their “personal workspace”—software programs, personal preferences, personal files and data as well as the means for managing them within a highly secure environment—on any personal computer running Microsoft Windows XP or Windows 2000. The new Cruzer models were unveiled at a press conference at the Consumer Electronics Show where SanDisk is demonstrating products.
The Cruzer Micro will be available in capacities that range from 512-megabytes (MB) to 4-gigabytes (GB), while capacities for the Cruzer Titanium will be 1GB and 2GB.
The new Cruzer products are preloaded with four free U3-smart programs:
SKYPE for Voice over IP (VoIP) capabilities (Cruzer customers will receive 30 free SkypeOut minutes for free PC to landline calls worldwide to any phone at any time)
Avast! Antivirus software
SignUp Shield™ password vault
CruzerSync™, which synchronizes with Outlook data.
The new Cruzer Micro will be available March 2006, while the new Cruzer Titanium will be available April 2006.
The EPOS Digital Pen & USB Flash Drive bundle is the next generation in USB Flash Drive products. With this unique bundle, EPOS takes both the pen and the USB product one step further in a revolutionary combination that provides a totally portable, wireless PC peripheral pen with flash memory capabilities.
With its miniature form, low battery consumption, and pinpoint-accurate positioning, users can enjoy all the benefits of Flash Disk Memory together with the latest digital pen technology.
Features include:
Write and save freely on any paper
Store hundreds of pages of information
Transfer notes and sketches to a computer
Transform written notes to text
Use as regular flash memory to store music, image, video files, etc.
Joe Hynek, 27, a doctoral student in mechanical engineering at Iowa State University, designed the Solarjo Power Purse during a handbag competition in an experimental garment design class. The purse is designed to power any small device that uses a USB port, including cell phones, personal digital assistants, iPods, global positioning devices, voice recorders and small cameras.
There's extra padding in the purse for protection and a zipper for security.
Mark Bryden, a mechanical engineering professor at Iowa State, predicts the idea could bloom into other sorts of wearable items. Already, there are backpacks that convert solar energy into battery power.
Hynek wants to eventually market the purse to environmentally conscious consumers. Although materials can be costly, Hynek hopes to keep the retail price under $300.
"I don't want to make it so that it's an elitist kind of item," he said.
New 1TB Iomega Desktop Hard Drive XL Series
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Iomega International S.A has introduced the Iomega Desktop Hard Drive Tera Series, a compact four-drive enclosure with 1 terabyte (TB) of capacity.
Designed for creative services professionals and others who require fast access to data, the Iomega 1TB drive delivers high capacity with a complete backup and disaster recovery solution.
The new Iomega Tera Series connects to the host PC through FireWire 800 or USB 2.0 (backwards compatible with USB 1.1) and is compatible with FireWire 400 through an adapter which is included in the box.
The unit measures 318mm x 163mm x 203mm (L x W x H), and is designed to take up little space on the desktop.
It comes with four 250GB SATA drives, that can be easily removed and replaced, each running at 7200 RPM with 8MB cache for high performance, configurable as RAID 0 (striped).
The Iomega® Desktop Hard Drive XL Series is now available for $899.95
Walletex announced Sunday December 11th the launch of Wallet Flash 1.1, the world's first credit card-sized wallet flash drive (WFD), in the United States. The company also announced the deliveries of Wallet Flash units to its first customers.
It is the gadget of the day according to Stuff Magazine. The capacity options range from 128MB to 2GB. The available option right now is the 128 MB unit for (US $29.00).
Yahoo Launches "Yahoo Answers Beta" To Give Personalized Answers
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In a bid to give it a personal touch, Yahoo Inc. has launched it latest beta service Wednesday December 7th, where users' questions are answered online by other visitors on its site.
Named Yahoo Answers, this service is a value-add to its search engine. Henceforth, viewers can ask questions on any subject on answers.yahoo.com and answers will come via responses of other Yahoo users. This service also lets individuals rate the responses so as to weed out inaccuracies.
I have just tried asking the following question, "What is the fastest upload/download USB Flash Drive?". Forst I was asked to login into my Yahoo account. Then I was asked to add any more details if I wanted to. Then I had to select a category ... in my case: "Consumer Electronics > Other - Electronics" Finally, I got the following instant message:
"Your Question was Posted! You will be notified via email when someone answers your question. Your question will be kept open, accepting answers for 14 days. During the 14 days, please come back and choose the best answer among all the answers posted. Or, you can ask others at Yahoo! Answers to vote on the answers received."
WidowPC’s Sting 917X2: World’s First Dual Core Processor Laptop
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WidowPC Gaming Computers announced yesterday the world's first dual core processor laptop. According to Engadget, the new laptop has the following specs: AMD 64 X2 Dual Core 4800+ (other options are available as well), 17-inch widescreen 1900 x 1200 WUXGA+ SuperBrite LCD, nVidia 7800 GTX graphics card with PCI-Express, up to 2GB of 400 MHz dual channel DDR RAM, dual SATA drives for as much as 240GB of storage, dual optical drive bays for optional dual-layer DVD burners, 7-in-1 memory card reader, optional TV tuner with remote, front panel LCD with media controls, built-in webcam, 2 FireWire ports, 4 USB 2.0 ports, serial port, infrared port, parallel port, external keyboard/mouse port, DVI, S-Video in and out, audio in/out, digital audio out, and 802.11a/b/g.
Currently, the dual core laptop is preorder only. The basic price is around ($3447) and can go up to ($5,500).
LaCie Introduces Brick Desktop Hard Drives & Mobile Hard Drives That Look Like LEGOs!
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LaCie has introduced its Brick Desktop Hard Drive and Brick Mobile Hard Drive Editions— a new line of external hard disk drives for Macs and PCs that resemble the popular LEGO children’s building block toys. The new drives range in price from US$119.99 to $329.99 depending on capacity and form factor.
The LaCie Brick Desktop drives connect to a Mac or PC using USB 2.0 LaCie’s Mobile versions come in USB 2.0 and FireWire combo versions or USB 2.0 only. All drives include backup software that compatible with Mac OS and Windows.
The Desktop Editions will ship by the end of December, according to LaCie. The Mobile Editions are coming in January.
Those LEGOs are too expensive to play with! The drives are stackable and would attract children so be aware ;)
No longer you need to panic in an event of a stolen thumbdrive. If you've a LG trackable flash drive, sooner or later you'll get an email informing your precious data whereabouts. And that's all thanks to the embedded Inspice Trace - the privacy-safe tracking software.
During initial registration, you are supposed to file with Inspice Trace your drive serial number, model and your email address. Then if someone else tries to access the drive's data, the embedded program will send out a homing beacon (IP address, host name, etc), helping you to trace the data. For all these to work, we bet the bad guys need to decrypt your data using a Internet-enabled Windows. We weren't so sure if the program would work on a Mac.
Recovering the drive might be futile, but there's an invaluable remote deletion function that conforms to US DoD 5220.22M to prevent unauthorized access. Though, this is only available to 'Enterprise' edition users.
Wow! I'm sure many guys I know will be very interested in this kind of USB Flash Drives! I know I am ....... :)
US Modulur Monster Drive: Cheap, Low Power Consumption, & Shiny!
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The "Monstor Drive" by US Modular (2GB) costs about the same as a 512MB flash drive and weighs about half an ounce. The drive is available with a capacity of 2GB, 4GB and 6GB. It promises fast, reliable, cost-effective storage for any device with a USB port. The Monstor Drive supports Windows and Macintosh, and no drivers are required.
Other features of the Monstor Drive include low power consumption, 1500G shock resistance rating, rotational speed of 4200rpm, media transfer rate of 52.4 to 99.6Mbit/s and a data transfer rate of 3.3 to 6.5MB/s.
The stainless steel drives will begin shipping in December priced from $99 to $399. It might be cheap, but I still prefere my SanDisk 2GB Titanium USB Drive ;p
This device is perfect for those who are paranoid and obsessed with their data and web security. StealthSurfer is a Windows PC compatible key-sized USB device that is preloaded with the following softwares:
Firefox - a popular high-speed browser with enhanced security
Anonymizer - offers anonymous surfing, complete network security and IP masking
RoboForm - a "one-click" form-fill with secure user ID/password management application
Thunderbird - for portable POP3/SMPT email, news groups, RSS feeds, and blog access
All softwares are configured and integrated for optimum privacy. When using StealthSurfer, all your sensitive Internet files such as cookies, history, and cache are stored on the StealthSurfer device instead of your computer.
You can buy the USB from StealthSurfer site direct at:
I'm surprised how come I haven't noticed this article by PCWorld. It was published back in July 2005. It is very interesting article that lists the best 100 products in 2005.
Congratulations Mozilla FireFox for being the top product of 2005 and also Google Gmail for being in the second place! Let me highlight some of the other "interesting" winners:
1. Mozilla Firefox Web Browser 2. Google Gmail Web Mail 7. Seagate USB 2.0 Pocket Drive Portable Hard Drive 16. Google Search Engine 28. Mozilla Thunderbird E-Mail Program 51. Flickr.com Photography Site 70. A9.com Search Engine 76. Google Desktop Search Desktop Search Tool 87. Internet Archive (Archive.org) Web Site 88. Opera 8 Web Browser 95. Garmin StreetPilot C330 GPS Navigation Device
OpenOffice.org 1.1: Great Alternative for Microsoft Office!
(Link)
If you would like to work on a Microsoft Document (Word, Excel, PowerPoint), but you don't have MS Office or you think it is too expensive? Then you have this great alternative! It is very much compatible with Microsoft Office formats (.doc, .xls, .ppt) ... you can open MS Office documents or save the documents created by OpenOffice as MS Office documents!
Created by Sun Microsystems, OpenOffice.org is a multiplatform and multilingual office suite and an open-source project. Compatible with all other major office suites, the product is free to download, use, and distribute.
The total download size is around (65MB). I would recommend that you try it .... and you don't have anything to loose and I'm sure you will like it as I have! :)
You can also download the USB portable version of OpenOffice.org at:
U3: Turn Any PC Into Your Own Protected Workspace
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By turning a USB flash drive into a USB smart drive, U3 lets you carry programs and personal preferences, launch software, and access all of your own data on any Windows XP or Windows 2000 PC from a device the size of a pack of gum. Now you can move between multiple locations with ease.
Leading USB flash drive manufacturers are using the U3 platform to launch their own U3 smart drives, such as SanDisk, Memorex, and Kingston.
Click at the link below to explore the U3 Software Central. The U3 Software Central is still in Beta and will open for business in a few days.
It happened to me few times when I lost my mobile phone and lost all the numbers I saved in it. It takes a long time to retype all the names and numbers back in a new SIM card. I guess this one will save alot of time and creates good backup to your contact numbers in your PC or your USB drive. It is not too expensive anyway ...... :)
