14 DAY TRIAL // The need of security is more and more stringent and this can be easily seen from the numerous attacks that caused companies and users to lose vital data. And considering that biometry is becoming increasingly popular, LaCie thought it would be a good idea to implement it in a new external hard-drive.
SAFE Mobile is fitted with a sensor that reads fingerprints and if you want to unlock it you have to swipe your finger over the sensor.
LaCie's solution comes in two variants: a 40GB one and an 80GB one, has a speed of 5400 RPM, weighs 200 grams and measures 5.43" x 3.15" x 0.98". The hard-disk is connected via USB which ensures transfer rates of up to 25-27MB/s, and for power it uses the PS/2 connector.
The bundled security utility locating in a 100MB virtual partition can store up to 10 fingerprints, shared by 4 regular users and an administrator. The software works with Windows XP and Jaguar/Panther/Tiger.
LaCie is taking preorders for this product whose commercial availability begins in late July. The 40GB variant will cost $149.99 and the 80GB one is priced at $199.99.