Data management includes the storage and transportability of software and databases for archive use, off-site protection of backup sets, and transfer of data via common carrier or courier from one device to another. The stress and potential of damage from mishandling, abuse or negligence, has mandated a requirement for shock-tolerant, robust and reliable solid state alternatives to magnetic or optical media storage options.
Constant improvement in the production and manufacture of solid state devices has proved to be a boon to the computer and communications industry, resulting in a win-win scenario for both vendors and users. Wide selection and heavy competition have made this technology available at superlative price points with reliably narrow profit margins mitigated by high volume distribution.
MicroSD memory
The relentless advance in the technology of modern portable computer and communications devices has created the necessity of portable data storage that is functional, efficient and inexpensive. A number of hardware solutions have been developed to satisfy these requirements as well as fulfilling the need for platform independence. Today, a microSD memory card can be directly ported from a cellphone, to a PDA, to a notepad, laptop, or desktop computer with ease. In many cases, reasonably priced adapters are readily available to compensate for various form factor differences or accomodate older technology. Typically, a SanDisk microSD card comes with a full-sized SD adapter included at no additional cost, resulting in cost savings realized from eliminating the necessity of replacing an otherwise satisfactory computer or similar device due to memory advances.
Solid State Drives
Solid State Drives (SSD) are available in a variety of storage capacities, form factors, and enclosures for internal or external auxiliary devices. For example, the current generation SanDisk SSD is configured for internal mounting using SATA standard plug compatibility or it can be housed in an external hard drive enclosure with USB, Firewire, or similar connexion options. Typical applications include the replacement of magnetic disk drives or used as high-speed boot drives. They are also popular as supplementary storage, usually configured as an external hard drive for ease in data transport and transfer.
Data security is integral to the device – for example, Digital Rights Management (DRM) – or as an element of a layered high security system which incorporates the latest digital encryption algorithms and implementations, such as AES, RSA and others.
USB Memory
USB memory sticks – commonly known as "thumb drives" – are still very popular as portable media. They have become almost ubiquitous: seen on key chains, ID necklaces and even featured as a "special purpose blade" (detachable) on the latest Swiss Army knives.
Memory sticks with USB interfaces are available in a variety of form factors. When used in conjunction with an appropriate adapter, virtually any data storage card can be pressed into service as a USB memory stick.
There is no excuse for catastrophe resulting from accidental or incidental data loss. External disk drives, USB memory sticks and SD secure data devices are available, affordable and accessible solutions necessary for truly effective data management.