MOBILE TECHNOLOGY

Lacie's blisteringly quick USB 3.0 FastKey SSD

January 5, 2011

Lacie says that its FastKey USB 3.0 SSD can transfer small files up to 100 times faster than a hard disk drive connected via Hi-Speed USB

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Gizmag is no stranger to USB storage innovations from LaCie so we took the opportunity to have a closer look at the company's FastKey drive on display at CES. The combination of USB 3.0 and SSD technology in a palm-sized form factor is claimed to result in a drive that can transfer small files up to 100 times faster than a hard disk drive connected via Hi-Speed USB.

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The FastKey's 26cm³ of solid state memory is encased in a stylish and rugged aluminum case and comes with peace of mind software AES 256-bit encryption. The 1.1 x 4.1 x 0.4-inch (27 x 104 x 9 mm) drive offers up to ten times the performance of USB 2.0, with a blisteringly fast read speed of 260MB per second and write of 180MB per second.

LaCie has also secured 4GB of secure online storage for two years courtesy of Wuala, just in case you run out of room on the drive itself or as a backup measure.

The LaCie FastKey is available in 30GB, 60GB and 120GB capacities, with prices starting at a penny shy of US$150.

About the Author

While Paul is loath to reveal his age, he will admit to cutting his IT teeth on a TRS-80 (although he won't say which version). An obsessive fascination with computer technology blossomed from hobby into career before the desire for sunnier climes saw him wave a fond farewell to his native Blighty in favor of Bordeaux, France. He's now a dedicated newshound pursuing the latest bleeding edge tech for Gizmag. All articles by Paul Ridden