Sony Micro Vault

USB memory keys might be useful but, if we're honest, they're more than little dull. You might be surprised, then, to see one grace the pages of PCW. In this case, rather than rehash the same old formula, Sony's new Micro Vault now has a fingerprint reader.

At the most basic level it's used with the provided software to gain access to the Micro Vault's security drive. This is a small area of the memory key's 128MB capacity set aside for important data.

Without the software and your fingerprint the security drive remains hidden from view and the Micro Vault acts just like any other memory key on the market. Sony has also provided software that works with Windows. For example, you can select a folder, use the right-click context menu and encrypt it. Without your fingerprint the data is essentially useless.

The software extends to protecting Windows itself, so when you unplug the key your PC is locked. You have to reattach the unit and provide your fingerprint to get back to your applications.

The system is not without its problems, though. We found that when it locks Windows it only blanks out one screen on a dual-head system. The other screen can't be physically accessed but anything on it can be read.

Like all other fingerprint readers we have seen, the Micro Vault requires a backup password in case its recognition fails. While this means you can always get at your data, it only makes the encryption as secure as your password.

But as a product it's an interesting idea and Sony has done a good job of implementing it. If nothing else it gives you the confidence that data stored on your USB key will remain away from prying eyes.

Contact: Sony 01932 816 000
www.sony.co.uk

Specifications:

• 128MB
• USB2
• Fingerprint reader