World's first 256 GB USB Flash drive

Kingston has revealed the world's first 256 gigabyte USB flash drive, the DataTraveler 300.

Offering a capacity equal to 54 DVDs or 365 CDs, the DataTraveler 300 is a convenient method of storing large amounts of data without the need for large external hard drives and a mass of wires.

Files can be written to the flash drive at a rate of 20 megabytes per second (MB/sec) and read at 10MB/sec, allowing for access to files and applications straight from the USB stick.

Packaged in a durable yet lightweight shell, the DataTraveler 300 features a retractable USB connector and a reinforced key ring hole.

Users storing sensitive or vital data can also use Password Traveller software for Windows alongside Vista ReadyBoost to ensure protection of key files.

The DataTraveler offers plug-and-play connectivity via USB 1.1 or 2.0 and comes with a five-year warranty.

Up to 90% of the drives content can be password protected and conveniently accessed due to the new Password Traveler software. No administrator rights are required. Fast transfer speeds guarantee smooth data flow to your host device.

256 GB of data, allows you to store:

  * 10 Blu-ray discs (~25 GB each)
  * 54 DVD discs (~4.7 GB each)
  * 365 CD discs (~700 MB each)

Features/Specifications:

  * Capacity1 — 256 GB
  * Speed 2 — Data transfer rates of up to 20MB/sec. read and 10MB/sec. write
  * Safeguarded — includes Password Traveler security software for Windows
  * Convenient — does not require Administrator rights to access the Privacy Zone
  * Dimensions — 2.78" x 0.88" x 0.65" (70.68 mm x 22.37 mm x 16.45 mm)
  * Operating Temperature — 32° to 140° F (0° to 60° C)
  * Storage Temperature — -4° to 185° F (-20° to 85° C)
  * Simple — just plug into a any 1.1 or 2.0 USB port
  * Practical — durable, capless design
  * Guaranteed — five-year warranty
  * Enhanced — for Windows ReadyBoost™ on Vista-based systems 3
  * Compatibility Table

As always, cutting edge tech isn’t cheap: the “Buy” links in Kingston’s website all come up empty, so its quite probable that the Data Traveler 300 is not available yet, but Hardware Sphere and Gizmodo both claim that the flash disk will sell for about $900 (USD). For comparison’s sake, you can get a 320 GB external hard drive for about $70. Even Western Digital’s 4 TB My Book external hard drive is much cheaper at $700. But I guess there are people who are willing to pay for the small form factor.