What Is It:
Remember when it was cool to have a portable storage device that measured in just megabytes and then came those that were gigabyte? Now LaCie has a 1 terabyte portable storage device that includes security features and customizable access features. The d2 Safe is giving us a new way to carry and secure our data while on the road.
What Makes it Different:
The d2 Safe Hard Drive has biometric security, hardware encryption and an optional chain lock for even more security. The biometric software allows up to 5 five users to be recognized for access. Each person can be given different levels of access. The disk is locked or unlocked by swiping a fingerprint.
The hardware encryption uses 128-bit AES technology.
The chain lock is an optional add-on but one I'd strongly recommend purchasing with the D2 Safe. You can attach the chain to your desk to keep the drive secure or quite likely attach the chain inside your laptop bag as well.
Why Get One:
It works with Windows® or Mac OS®. You can use FireWire 800/400 or USB 2.0 for connection interface and it's portable enough to travel with anywhere.
Dimensions:
1.7 x 6.3 x 6.8 in. (44 x 160 x 173 mm)
Weight:
3.31 lbs. (1500 g)
The amount of information that this drive can hold means you don't have to carry multiple portable drives or CD/DVDs with you while you travel.
The d2 Safe can be used horizontally or vertically if desk space is at a premium.
Pricing and Availability:
1TB capacity will ship late July 2007 and estimated price is $579.99 (USD).
Just My Thoughts:
Ok, this drive is significantly pricier than most portable drives we're used to and for some that can be the deal breaker. If you consider though the amount of money spent on smaller capacity storage drives and CD/DVDs over the course of a year for example then the price doesn't seem as steep.Consider as well that one storage disk with this capacity can replace so many other smaller devices and it is much easier to keep track of one gadget than multiple gadgets.
I do look forward to hearing just how well this drive works and how much can be stored on it.