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Portable storage devices are not only of high
interest to many, but are all extremely practical as well. However,
for many, carrying around your data without some kind of security can make
you somewhat paranoid. Whether it's a flash drive or external hard
disk, most offer some kind of security or should I say...peace of mind.
Silverstone Technology, known for their high quality, innovative products,
has released a new hard drive enclosure that is a bit out of the norm when
it comes to data security. Their new TS01B is their latest 2.5" hard
drive enclosure that incorporates RFID technology to provide a new and
unique approach to data security.
What is RFID?
Before we get to this unique product, let's
briefly cover RFID Technology and how the TS01B makes use of it. Radio
frequency identification (RFID) is a method of remotely storing and
retrieving data using RFID tags. An RFID tag is a small object that can be
attached to or incorporated into a product. RFID tags contain antennae to
enable them to receive and respond to radio-frequency queries from an RFID
transceiver. In the case of the TS01B, the RFID transceiver and
transponder go through somewhat of a "coding process" in order establish a
unique encryption key. After this is done, the hard drive can be unlocked
with a simple wave of the transponder in front of the sensor on the
enclosure. As I will demonstrate in this review, when the drive is in a
locked state, it cannot be recognized by any computer and/or operating
system it runs.
Packaging & Contents
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This new enclosure does come in a small but very
appealing box. It comes bundled with quite a bit of goodies as well.
Let's have a closer look at them...
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There are two USB to mini plug cables included.
However, I'll go more into detail on them in the install portion because
many may get a bit confused as to why the larger splitter cable is included
and how it functions. They even throw in a small screwdriver as well
for the install. The most important accessory though are the two RFID
keys that are included. They also throw in a couple of key rings for easy carry.

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Last but not least is a quality leather pouch.
It is not ugly or bulky and even has an elastic strap that will allow for
waist carry if need be.
The Enclosure
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Like all their products, expect a high level of
quality. The enclosure is mostly made of aluminum with a very nice
black, brushed finish. Only the front removable housing where the
circuit board resides is made of plastic. It is extremely light, even
after you install the drive itself.

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The front is where you'll find everything.
This includes an optional power jack, a mini USB port and the multi-colored
status LED.
Specifications
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Enclosure material |
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Color |
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Power requirement |
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Drive size support |
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Drive interface support |
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Enclosure interface |
| USB2.0
(480Mbits) Interface |
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Operating system support |
| Windows 2000,
XP, Vista, Mac OS and Linux |
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Chipset |
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Net Weight |
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Dimension |
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131.2(L)×81.7(W)×14.1(H)mm |
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Package Included |
TS01B
External Hard Drive Kit
USB 2.0 cable
Screws
Quick User Guide
RFID key x 2
Leather case for TS01B |
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