14 DAY TRIAL // Even though Advanced Micro Devices and Intel still don't offer native chipset support for the SuperSpeed USB 3.0 standard, hardware compatible with it keeps sprouting around every corner. This is because motherboard makers have been quite eager to make use of USB 3.0 controller chips, giving storage solutions developers enough platforms for compatible drives to be worthwhile investments. Spire chose to finally make such an investment by coming up with the HandyBook.
The HandyBook isn't some new external/portable hard drive or SSD. Instead, it is an external drive enclosure that seeks to allow SATA units to communicate with host PCs via the 5Gbps USB 3.0 connection. The product is codenamed SP175SU3-BK and is a modified version of its maker's original HandyBook, a 2.5-inch HDD/SSD enclosure.
Spire was careful to make the product compact and easy to fit into a pocket, since it sought to implement a high level of portability. HandyBook is also no heavier than average mobile phones. Furthermore, it has a vibration-proof design and an aluminum alloy cover that dissipates heat, even as the installation of the drive is done without need for tools. Naturally, Spire threw in backward compatibility with USB 2.0 ports, in order to ensure universal compatibility with not just new, but also regular and older systems. Of course, in such cases, data transfers will be limited to 480Mbps.
All in all, the HandyBook measures 150 x 55 x 110 mm, is capable of Plug & Play and is also hot swappable. Furthermore, it has no need for external power plugs, since it can make do with the electricity provided by the bus itself. Compatibility with desktops and Mac systems is guaranteed. Finally, the device has a price of $24.99 (18.90 Euro), is backed by a one-year warranty and should become globally available in August, though the exact date has not been mentioned.