Computing on Demand PC News & Reviews
As someone that is expected to fix everyone’s computer in my family, there is nothing more than “WOOT!” that can be said about a product that makes my family obligations easier. My family isn’t exactly the most “in touch” when it comes to computing (you will read an article / rant soon about that) and they make a bunch of dumb mistakes… most of which ends up with them contracting a I.T.D. (Internet Transmitted Disease, a.k.a. VIRUS!). That’s when the frenzy starts, the claims that the world is collapsing, the seas are rising, they can’t send email! I must work quickly and efficiently to alleviate their ailments. With that said, products like the USI-2535 makes my job easier.
The USI-2535 is designed to make attaching a hard drive to a PC quick and painless. It provides the ability to connect your notebook hard drive, your PATA hard drive, or your SATA (I or II) hard drive to a computer through a USB (1.1 or 2.o) connection.
The bells and whistles, there aren’t any… well wait; there is the OTB (one touch backup) that no one really uses. Other than that, the box comes with all the cables you need: USB cable, Power Adapter for SATA, Power Cable, Sata Data Cable, Power Brick, a CD, and a Manual. If you need a manual for this… you should seek counseling. The CD contains the useless OTB software and a driver for Windows 98. Every “modern” operating system seems to find the device without any intervention required. Connection is simple:
- Power the HDD by connecting the power adapter to it
- Connect the HDD to the USI-2535
- Connect the USI-2535 to your computer.
- VOILA!
There isn’t much to do in regards to benchmarking as you are limited to the speed of USB here. The device is not meant to be used as a means of connecting a hard drive for super long extended periods. The idea is for quick access to a drive to either get data, give data, scan for viri, etc. You must remember that there is no cooling provided so your drive can get a bit toasty if you use it for extended periods.
I can honestly say that the USI-2535 has made working on machines much simpler by allowing me to quickly connect a hard drive without any hassle. The device works as expected and provides the freedom I need. Bottom line… is it worth the $15.00 I have seen it sell for? YES!
