| Corsair Flash Padlock 2GB USB Drive
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The Corsair brand name may not need an introduction in the computer enthusiast crowd, as they have been a mainstay in high performance computer memory products since 1994. In recent years they have branched out and now the Corsair logo can be found on other items like computer power supplies and flash memory products. This review will take a look at one of their newest USB flash drives that provides a unique feature in the form of a hardware secured lock intended to protect the data stored on the device.
The device in question is the Corsair Flash Padlock 2GB USB Drive, model CMFUSBPADLOCK-2GB. The promotional image above reveals that it is not quite like your typical flash drive as Corsair has decided to also try their hand at a new approach to security. While their new Padlock drive is not marketed toward corporate use or businesses in any way, it does offer the home user a step up on the security found on a typical flash drive. I spoke with Corsair about their drive, and they indicated that they don't offer any on drive encryption (they did however recommend TrueCrypt for encryption which I also highly recommend) nor any protection from a physical attack. But, like they said it's for home users. So let's take a look at the drive, the performance, and the security features.
Before taking a look at the Flash Padlock 2GB USB Drive provided for review, let's look at some published data taken from the Corsair website...
Features and Specifications:
» Type - USB Flash Drive
» Memory Size - 2GB
» Auto-Locking – Self locking after removal from computer
» Customizable PIN – Set your own PIN and make it easy to remember
» Easy to Use – Direct keypad access and indicator lights make locking/unlocking simple
» Plug and Play – Hardware based security works without installing or running software
» Platform independent – Works on Windows, MAC and Linux platforms without the use of software
» Warranty - 36 Months Parts / Labor
From the Corsair website:
Corsair’s Flash Padlock gives users the confidence of having a hardware-secured lock to protect their data on an USB drive. Featuring auto-lock hardware security, Flash Padlock is the best way to secure your data while on the go. This prevents any unauthorized access or “Brute Force” attack to the data on Flash Padlock. Users can program in a PIN, much like they do for an ATM machine, to lock/unlock their data. An easy to use keypad in conjunction with lock/unlock indicator lights makes the Flash Padlock highly intuitive to use. Lastly, the Flash Padlock is fully plug-and-play, and requires no software or drivers to work properly.
The Basics:
The below left image is a shot of the packaging, which I have to admit is very well designed. With just a quick glance you get all the info you need, as well as a good look at the drive itself.
 
The above right image shows what is provided in the package. There is the Flash Padlock drive itself, a USB extension cable, a lanyard, and an instruction manual. The drive itself is bigger than a typical flash drive, as the addition of the keypad and the necessary circuitry adds some bulk to the unit.
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