Buffalo MiniStation DataVault - Full Encryption for the Lazy

Hardware encryption seems to be all over the market these days. The software counterpart is practically sufficient for most users, but as few would actually take the extra step to hit the 'encrypt' button, the data protection is equally useless as the 3-page manual in the packaging. Buffalo MiniStation DataVault with encryption-based security is probably the best for all these lazy geeks (who are well aware of the risks) and for the uninitiated executives.

The MiniStation DataVault - also going after the same market as the Maxtor BlackArmor - is fully encrypted right out of the box. As soon as you plug in the drive to none other than a USB port, the virtual CD partition launches itself through Windows' auto-run, and then a program asks your password. If correct, whatever you dump onto the drive gets encrypted with 128-bit AES cipher. The MiniStation DataVault also attempts to appeal to Mac folks with Tiger / Leopard support.

To top this off, the 2.5" 160GB USB external drive comes with a 3-year warranty with a copy of Memo AutoBackup, mobile FireFox and Thunderbird for your backup, web surfing and email communication needs respectively. We wonder if Buffalo has a trade-in programs for those with a less secure Turbo USB drive.