Gizmodo: Card Reader

Sony Ericsson's HSPA Modems Triple-Up as Card Readers, GPS Receiver

Kit Eaton — Tue, 17 Jun 2008 13:20:00 EDT

Sony Ericsson is joining the mobile internet dongle game with the new MD400 and MD400g USB modems. Both are pretty diminutive, and pack a folding antenna and retracting USB plug to keep the size down, and both have HSPA connectivity with 7.2Mb/s download and 2.0Mb/s upload speeds.

They also have card-reader slots, for MemoryStick Micro and microSD cards. Most interestingly, the 400g version has integrated GPS and an NMEA 2.0 interface, so you can slip it into your PC or Mac, and pinpoint your location live in Google Maps. Available late this year, but you'll have to wait for pricing info. Full press release below.

SONY ERICSSON PRESS RELEASE June 17, 2008

Sony Ericsson launches two new dual function USB modems to keep you ahead of the game

Sony Ericsson unveils the MD400 and MD400g - the first HSPA USB modems of their kind from Sony Ericsson not only providing high speed broadband but also a combined M2 Memory Stick Micro(TM) and a microSD(TM) slot brought together in a stylish and attractive design. Apart from an in-built antenna, an innovative additional swivel antenna optimizes the performance when in use. When closed, it covers and protects the retractable USB connector. The MD400g also has an in-built GPS receiver which automatically shows the user's current location.

Singapore, 17th June 2008 - For people on the move keeping in touch via the internet with colleagues, clients, friends and family is a necessity. Now Sony Ericsson gives users the speed they need in a stylish way with its two new modems complete with HSPA technology. Users can receive 7.2Mb/s in download and up to 2.0Mb/s in upload speeds. This means that sending attachments via email such as images or video content can be sent up to five times faster than before.

"The MD400 and MD400g are high performance and stylish devices that enable you to have all your essentials at hand even when you are out of reach from broadband at home or in the office. The USBs are simple, quick to install and the multiple technologies guarantee internet access every time," said Johan Tysklind, marketing director mobile computing at Sony Ericsson. "The combined M2 Memory Stick Micro(TM) and the microSD(TM) slot really makes these products stand out from the crowd and the MD400g even includes a GPS receiver."

Sony Ericsson MD400/MD400g - the world on the move
HSPA technology - up to 7.2Mb/s download and 2.0Mb/s upload
First USB modem with combined M2 Memory Stick Micro(TM) and microSD(TM) slot
In-built antenna complemented with an additional swivel 'Diversity' antenna maximizes reception performance and boosts data transmission
Innovative mechanical design allows the swivel antenna to also protect the retractable USB connector when the modem is not in use
USB modem - can be used in any PC, laptop or desktop
In-built GPS receiver and GPS utility (MD400g) which can link directly in to Google Maps(TM) and mark current location
PlayNow shortcut link - just a click away from entertainment
Auto-install
Auto configuration
So whether you are a professional that needs internet access anytime of the day, a student away from the library or even someone taking advantage of nice weather in the park the MD400/MD400g range can give you the broadband access you need from any mobile location.

- ENDS -

At a glance:

MD400 Mobile Broadband USB Modem, MD400g Mobile Broadband GPS USB Modem

Compact size, 70 x 28 x 15 mm (open)

Weight 28g
Dual antenna solution featuring Receiver Diversity optimisation which ensures highest possible data rates. the USB connector retracts when the swivel antenna is folded. Completely closed it covers the port

Combo M2 Memory Stick Micro(TM) and microSD(TM) slot
GPS (MD400g): Integrated GPS receiver (NMEA 2.0 interface)
HSPA: Up to 7.2 Mb/s, downlink. Up to 2.0 Mb/s, uplink
HSPA/UMTS: Triple band 850/1900/2100 MHz
EDGE/GPRS: Quad band 850/900/1800/1900 MHz
Operating Systems: MS Windows® 2000, XP, Vista, MAC-OS X supported
Features/Enablers: Sony Ericsson Wireless Manager
Auto-installation and auto-configuration: Multi color LED illumination indicating communication status (and GPS status - MD 400g)
25 supported languages
Sony Ericsson update services
Combo M2 Memory Stick Micro(TM) and microSD(TM) slot
In-built GPS receiver inc. GPS utility (MD400g)
PlayNow(TM) icon - a click away from entertainment
Colours: Exquisite Ebony, Lustrous White

Availability: Globally available Q4 2008

Legal
1) Facts and features may vary depending on local variant.
2) Talk, standby and video call times are affected by network preferences, type of SIM card, connected accessories and various activities e.g. games. Kit contents and color options may differ from market to market. The full range of accessories may not be available in every market.

© Sony Ericsson Mobile Communications AB, 2008.

[Sony Ericsson]

Brando 3-in-1 Data Dock Saves Case Space With Multi-Use Trays

Kit Eaton — Wed, 11 Jun 2008 06:48:00 EDT

For those of you with desktop PCs crammed to the gills with peripherals, this slot-loading data dock from Brando might be a neat space-saver solution. It takes up just one 3.5-inch drive bay, but has three interchangeable sleds: one for 2.5-inch SATA HDDs, one with a 4-way USB hub and one a multi-type card reader. You simply chose which you need at the time, and slide it into one of the two slots. Cleverly each aluminum-frame sled also functions as an independent USB peripheral, making them pretty useful portable accessories too. Available now for $69. [Brando]

Earth Trek Phone Stand is USB Hub, Card Reader Too

Kit Eaton — Mon, 02 Jun 2008 09:10:00 EDT

Sure, this all-in-one from Earth Trek is no good-looking gadget stand like the iClooly, but it'd be hard to beat it for convenience. You can use it to prop up your cellphone (though how does it stick on? ... magic? love? glue?) and also charge it through a range of swappable connectors. It's also a three-way USB hub, and you can even jam in a range of memory cards from microSD to MemoryStick Pro Duo. Looks like the perfect thing to fling in your laptop bag when you're off on a trip. It's available in black or white, but there's no info on price. [Akihabaranews]

Phone Charger Doubles as Data Backup Unit, Triples as an SD Card Reader

Sean Fallon — Wed, 07 May 2008 15:30:00 EDT

There are other methods of backing up your cellphone contacts, but integrating that capability into a cellphone charger makes a lot of sense from a convenience standpoint. Plus, throwing in the ability read your SD/MMC cards doesn't hurt either. It can even act as a portable battery backup in a pinch. The cleverly titled "Data-backup mobile phone charger" (also referred to as the VT-100 elsewhere) works with most major phone brands and can be used for PMPs, digital cameras and other gadgets strictly as a portable power supply. The device is available for around $30 US. [Longshow via Gizmag and Alibaba]

USB Memory Card Reader With Compact Mirror. Verdict: Wacky!

Kit Eaton — Mon, 14 Apr 2008 10:39:55 EDT

So, sometimes you need to check to see if your lipstick is okay, and sometimes you need to download data from a memory card. To do both of those you need a device to help you out. But why would you combine both devices into one gizmo? I suppose it could save space in your purse if you're a really habitual memory-card and mirror user. Anyway, this product reads a broad range of cards, except for Compact Flash, is just 2.5 x 2.2 x 0.8 inches, has built-in USB plug and you can always stash spare cards inside. Yours in gray or blue for $15. [Gadget4All]

Brando Cellphone Charm is Charging Cable, MicroSD Reader Too

Kit Eaton — Wed, 09 Apr 2008 11:00:21 EDT

Sometimes the "Keep It Simple Stupid" principle and product mashups really do work: like this multipurpose cellphone charm from Brando. Unclasp it and there's a USB-to-phone cable for data and charging, customizable with plugs that suit your cellphone or mini-USB device. Flick a switch, slot in a MicroSD card and it's a card-reader/USB memory stick. Couldn't be neater. Available in five colors for a ridiculous $14. [Brando via BBGadgets]

USB Card Reader Squeezes in a Thermometer and Digital Clock Too

Kit Eaton — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 10:00:30 EST

This gadget from Polar is a multifunction card reader that distinguishes itself from all the others with a dust-proof sliding lid and a built-in clock (wow!) and thermometer. It is an analog thermometer, but what the heck: everything else is digital nowadays, so its nice to see some cheapo mashup analogness. The reader supports SD, MMC, T-Flash and MemorySticks of all varieties, is USB 2.0 for speed, and if its triangular goodness appeals to you, you can find it in black, white and orange for $15. [USBGeek]

Plain MicroSD Card Reader Brings Out the Nail Technician in You

AddyDugdale — Wed, 13 Feb 2008 10:35:03 EST

The Giz, as you know, is a big fat fan of modding (and, it goes without saying, big fat modders) but this moddable MicroSD card reader from ADTEC in Japan is definitely one for the girly girls. Plain, cheap and plastic in the before pic, hit the jump to see the tasteful "after" picture.

Any of our female readers who feel that their life is incomplete without matching nails and card readers, this is for you. Any of our male readers with a penchant for nail-biting and co-ordinating accessories, I suggest you get one too, and just chew away distractedly at the end. [Akihabara News]

Kingston DataTraveler Micro is a USB Stick with MicroSD Card Reader

Jason Chen — Mon, 11 Feb 2008 13:15:14 EST

USB thumb drives stopped being cool about 10 years ago, but what happens when you stick a microSD card reader on board? It gets cool again, that's what. Kingston's DataTraveler Micro does just that, and even holds up to 4GB of onboard memory inside the thumbdrive itself. The reader can read not only microSD cards, but microSDHC and Memory Stick Micro (M2). Prices are $19, $28 and $42 for the 1, 2 and 4GB models respectively. [Kingston]

SanDisk's 8GB Ultra II SDHC Doesn't Even Need a Reader

Jason Chen — Thu, 07 Feb 2008 14:05:45 EST

Making flash memory USB compatible without a card reader seems to be the hot thing to do nowdays, and SanDisk is following up on the craze with their Ultra II SD card with USB interface. It's 8GB, has a $99 MSRP, and can fold in half to reveal the USB connector that you can easily shove into the USB slot on your machine. Because if we have to carry around one more thing in our bags when making the mad dash to grab a seat at Macworld, we may just collapse halfway in and have to blog prone on our stomachs in the aisle. [BusinessWire via jkontherun]

Deskscape Card Reader Has Curious Bulges

Sean Fallon — Thu, 31 Jan 2008 18:10:25 EST

This may not be the smallest or most advanced card reader out there, but the Deskscape sure has the weirdest look. Outside of that, its reading abilities are limited to memory sticks, MMC and SD cards, and it clocks in at $30.77. If you think the unusual design and multiple color options are worth that much cash, knock yourself out. I'll stick with smaller readers with more functionality— thank you very much. [GeekStuff4U via OhGizmo]

80-in-1 Card Reader for Only $17

Sean Fallon — Thu, 24 Jan 2008 19:00:51 EST

The card reader wars have a new champion, so take a seat Mr. 62-in-1 reader from earlier this month. You now officially suck thanks to this 80-in-1 reader from iMono. It supports just about everything, including SDHC, MMC4.2, CF4.0, micro SDHC and mini SDHC. It also had an average read speed of 32.6MB/s and an average write speed of 24.4MB/s when tested with a Sandisk Extreme IV. Plus, it measures about 4" x 1" x .5"—making it extremely portable. And the best part is that it will only set you back $17. [Product Page via GetUSB]

Stupid Race for Ultimate Card Reader Continues with 65-in-1 Model

Kit Eaton — Tue, 15 Jan 2008 10:00:23 EST

Remember that 62-formats-in-1 card reader for your desktop PC from last week? Old Hat. Check it out: an extra three formats, including SDHC, are apparently readable by this little number, though we're still at a loss as to what they all are. The next edition will also read your mind and your future in tea leaves. Oh look, there's a MacBook Air on that Earl Grey! [Akihabara news]

62-in-1 Card Reader / Hub: The Only Thing it Can't Do is Pleasure You (Or Can It?)

Sean Fallon — Fri, 11 Jan 2008 20:00:36 EST

This 62-in-1 USB hub can read just about any memory card you can throw at it, and maybe some that don't even exist. Seriously, I had no idea that there were even this many formats out there. It also features an internal 3.5" connect bay, USB, Firewire and SATA slots, and audio in / out. And the best part is that it only costs $39.99 —which seems a little too good to be true. [Product Page via TRFJ]

Lightning Round: Kingston's 19-in-1 Card Reader

Jason Chen — Wed, 12 Dec 2007 13:30:37 EST

The Gadget: Kingston's 19-in-1 card reader that not only handles the standard SD, CF, MS and MMC cards, there's a native slot for microSD and MMCmicro as well. What this means is you won't need a separate adapter to fit your microSD cards into before docking—fantastic, since lots of phones now use these tiny ass cards in order to save physical space (but sacrifice storage space).

The Price: $17

The Verdict: It works.

[Kingston]

Podera Luxe USB Hub and Flash Card Readers Are Downright Purdy

Charlie White — Tue, 16 Oct 2007 17:00:00 EDT

We were starting to get bored with USB hubs and flash card readers, but just when we thought we'd seen them all, along came the Podera Luxe USB Hub and its comely sister, the Luxe memory card reader. There is just something pleasant about this USB hub, even though it only has four ports. Sure, it's going to look much uglier when you plug your own USB cables into it, but we like that elegant Colorado Red color and the hub's gently rounded corners. There are other swank-looking colors available, too. And oh yeah, check out this matching flash card reader.

It looks like it's cut from the same cloth as its USB port brother, and this little box accommodates most memory cards through a single slot. This is one case where less really is more, proving a product that uses the word "pod" doesn't have to have the letter "i" before it for it be beautifully designed. Check out Podera's USA distributor site for these and a couple of other eye-catching designs. [Technabob]

Elecom Memory Card Reader Keeps Your Gigs in Order

Haroon Malik — Sun, 30 Sep 2007 20:00:00 EDT

Elecom's USB 2.0 memory card reader supports all of the following; SDHC, SD, MMC, xD and Sony's Memory Stick MagicGate/Pro/Duo cards. That is nothing out of the ordinary; a cross format reader is near enough the norm these days. Elecom goes one better with a storage space built into the card reader.

Now, that is the art of simplistic, useful design. This very much begs the question; why did no one think of this earlier? Elecom's marvel of functionality is set to ship on October 20th 2007, available in; blue, black, red or white trims and will be priced at $28.13. [Product Page via Gadgetell]

FCC Reveals Details on New PS3 Model

blongo3 — Thu, 27 Sep 2007 18:12:43 EDT

Why can't Sony just come out and say that they're making another PS3 model? We know it, they know it, and now the FCC knows it. While most of the details are blocked from the public eye, such as what size hard drive will be included, it does note that there will only be 2 USB ports and the card reader seems to have gone missing. Hopefully this will be that rumored $399 40GB model we've been wishing for. [DailyTech]

Golden Piggy MicroSD Card Reader is Definitely Creepy

Travis Hudson — Wed, 30 May 2007 14:00:34 EDT

If we had a "weird gadget of the day," I'm fairly confident that this would be it. This is a pretty simple MicroSD card reader, but it is in the shape of a pig—a gold pig. If pigs weren't scary enough as it is, now they are terrifying my dreams in shiny gold. Just look at the little pig and his removable head and satanic eyes gazing into your soul. Scared yet? You should be. $8. –Travis Hudson

Product Page [Brando]

IO-Data USB2-W31RW Card Reader is Monochrome, but Well-Read

Addy Dugdale — Wed, 23 May 2007 07:50:49 EDT

This card reader from IO-Data, the USB2-W31RW, comes in black and white, and can read 31 different types of cards—SDHC memory cards, micro SDs, memory sticks, MicroProles, SecuriMinge, SDHoHos, STDs, BumperMong Sticks, Multi-Media Splanges, High-Speed Jezebel Sticks, KrispyKremeKards, MemoryCleet, Fangs4DMemory and HDSpazzTwigs, for starters. What it won't read: credit cards, birthday cards, business cards, bus passes and kidney donor cards. It weighs 120 grams and is now Vista-friendly. – Ad Dugdale

Product Page [IO-Data via Akihabara News]

Brando Goes Balls over Hubs, Card Readers

Jason Chen — Tue, 22 May 2007 19:30:32 EDT

It's ball day over at Brando, which is why they've just released a USB Ball Hub and a USB Ball Card Reader.

These are exactly like they sound: a USB card reader and a USB hub, both shaped like balls. The reader flilps up and open to reveal different ports to plug into and includes microSD, miniSD, and M2 support. The hub, on the other hand, is just a USB hub that lets you plug in things at different angles so they don't bump up against each other.

The last time we saw so much of Brando's balls was on the set of the original Superman. – Jason Chen

USB Hub [Brando]

USB Reader [Brando]

Swivel USB Hub, Card Reader

Travis Hudson — Thu, 26 Apr 2007 17:30:58 EDT

Nothing tickles me pink more than a small, cute and efficient device. Save space, and USB ports on your desk with this miniature USB hub and card reader. Each USB port can swivel outwards up to 90 degrees. The entire shebang is even small enough to throw in a laptop or accessory bag. $18. –Travis Hudson

Product Page [Via Chip Chick]

Royal SIM Card Reader Keychain: Just Like Your Cellphone But Without All That Talking

Charlie White — Wed, 11 Apr 2007 15:25:00 EDT

Here's a little key chain trinket that's small enough to easily carry around in your pocket. The Royal SCR1 SIM Card Reader/Writer keeps all your keys together and functions as an alarm clock, stopwatch, timer, and best of all, it can read and write to that SIM card that's in your GSM-based cellphone.

Even if you drop your cell phone in the toilet, you still have access to all those names, addresses and telephone numbers in its database. Great for cellphone backup, too, and if you really need it, it could be the best $19.99 you ever spent. – Charlie White

Royal Site

Progear G5 28-in-1 Card Reader Wants to Be Mac Pro 8-Way's Bitch

Charlie White — Wed, 11 Apr 2007 11:20:00 EDT

Did you just get yourself one of those the new eight-way Mac Pros? Here's a peripheral that can handle a whole cellblock full of Flash cards, the Atech Progear G5 28-in-1 Card Reader. This girlie man is just 5 inches square and 2.5 inches high, but the little whippersnapper is a spittin' image of that eight-core Mac Pro Beast or any of the previous Power Mac G5s. Heck, you PC users might even express your slight Mac leanings with this cute little bugger.

Released a few months back, it accommodates an astounding variety of Flash cards, however not all at one time. We won't inundate you with all 28 of the Flash formats this $47.99 reader has in its little black book, but follow the link for a full list. – Charlie White

Compatible card types: Compact Flash type I/II, Compact Flash Ultra Speed (133X), Microdrive, MultiMediaCard, MultiMediaCard Mobile, MultiMediaCard High Speed v4.0, RS-MMC, RS-MMC High Speed v4.0, Memory Stick, Memory Stick PRO, Memory Stick Duo, Memory Stick PRO Duo, Memory Stick Select, Memory Stick ROM, Memory Stick MagicGate, Memory Stick Duo MagicGate, Memory Stick PRO Magic Gate, Memory Stick High Speed, Secure Digital, Secure Digital v1.1 (133X), miniSD, microSD (SD adapter required), SmartMedia, Magicstor, xD-Picture Card, xD-Picture Card type H, xD-Picture Card type M

Product Page [Atech Flash Technology]

USB Piggy Card Reader: Careful Who You Give This To

Charlie White — Tue, 03 Apr 2007 09:45:55 EDT

Not that we would recommend this for a Mother's Day present or anything, but for those who have pig fantasies, here's the fulfillment of all your wildest dreams. The $10 Brando USB Piggy Card Reader has four slots for your favorite memory, and supports SD, CF, XD, MS, Mini SD, T-flash/Micro SD cards.

We're most amused by the USB plug that goes right into this poor porker's ass. Don't miss that unforgettable shot in the gallery below. One thing's for sure, this little piggy ain't kosher for Passover. – Charlie White

Product Page [Brando]

USB Racing Car Memory Card Reader

Travis Hudson — Mon, 12 Mar 2007 14:00:07 EDT

This little peripheral is the work of none other than Brando. It's a car-shaped card reader with working lights that accepts SD, CF, XD, SIM, MiniSD and MicroSD. It looks a little cheesy, but I'm sure there are car-photography junkies out there reaching for their wallets right now. $15. –Travis Hudson

Product Page [Via ChipChick]

NewSoft Handheld BizCard Reader

Travis Hudson — Fri, 16 Feb 2007 12:45:19 EST

The NewSoft Biz Card Reader is a business card scanner of a different type. It is small. Small enough to be carried around in the pocket or easily placed in a briefcase or bag. Now you can show your contacts just how truly lazy you are, on the spot. This device works with Macs or PCs and will set you back $130. –Travis Hudson

Business Card Scanner For Your Pocket [MobileMag]

MicroSD Card Reader: Almost Too Small for Comfort

Charlie White — Mon, 12 Feb 2007 09:51:33 EST

MicroSD cards are so tiny that this little reader is probably going to add just enough bulk to keep you from losing that little sucker in your pocket. Brando says this is the world's smallest microSD card reader, and we haven't seen any smaller than this. And just think, now you can get a 4GB microSD card to slide into this thing.

Slide that fingernail-sized microSD card into this holder, and then a you can plug it in anywhere you can find a USB port. It's a $14 USB adapter that'll give you more versatility for those microSD cards, and the total package is so tiny, it's just on the borderline of being too small. – Charlie White

Product Page [Brando]

iMono Flash Memory Card and SIM Reader: Pocket-Sized Polyglot

Charlie White — Mon, 05 Feb 2007 08:49:19 EST

The multi-readers get smaller and smaller, and this iMono SIM card packs more versatility into a small form factor than we've seen yet. It handles a veritable alphabet soup of flash memory cards, including miniSD, all types of Memory Sticks, microSD, SD, MMC Card 4.0, MultiMedia Card, MultiMedia Card Plus, RS-MMC (MMC Mobile), RS-MMC4.0 (MMC Mobile 4.0) and MMC micro. It also reads cellphone SIM cards. Plus, there's no cover to lose.

I picked up a reader similar to this in Singapore recently, and it's functioned well enough to find itself a permanent place in my road warrior's bag. Not a bad deal for $19. – Charlie White

Product Page [USB Geek, via TRFJ]

Tripper Light Card Reader and Hard Drive

Jason Chen — Thu, 25 Jan 2007 16:20:44 EST

As amateur pornographers, we can appreciate the fact that a SD or CompactFlash card doesn't hold enough pictures to last through an entire day of shooting. Good thing there's this Tripper Light from Aska Corp.

It's got a six-in-one card reader with a built-in 20GB hard disk to unload pictures to. That means all you have to do is stick in your card, hit copy, and you're back in business.

This one's Japan only, but you should be able to find similar ones for sale here. – Jason Chen

The Tripper Light 17mm and 20GB for your photos [Akihabara News via Uber Gizmo]

KB-Dock Keyboard Has Swappable iPod Dock, Card Reader

Travis Hudson — Thu, 04 Jan 2007 11:53:57 EST

So, we've heard about Apple's keyboard with an iPod dock, and have also heard about the similar keyboard made by Razer, but now KB-Dock is upping the ante by releasing the KB-Dock. This keyboard has the option for an iPod dock or card reader. Oh man, the world really is getting high tech. Actually, this keyboard could be pretty useful with computers that have a lack of USB ports, or possibly as a laptop companion. – Travis Hudson

KB-Dock Swaps between Card Reader and iPod Dock [EverythingUSB]

USB Optical Mouse with SD Card Reader

Travis Hudson — Mon, 20 Nov 2006 16:36:51 EST

Sometimes the most basic convergence products can be the most useful. This is a portable mouse that includes a SD card reader. The USB cable on this optical mouse is also retractable. Add in a very sexy $11 price tag and this USB optical mouse SD card reader combination is ideal for any laptop user. – Travis Hudson

Product Page [Via Tech Digest]

Ultra Products' Stackable Peripherals

Jason Chen — Wed, 18 Oct 2006 18:30:49 EDT

Having taken the Lego philosophy of design to heart, Ultra Products is releasing a series of peripherals that stack on top of each other to form a tower of technology. Arrangeable in vertical (if you only have one) or horizontal positions, the bricks stack one on top of the other, leaving enough space so that each doesn't overheat and melt your data like day-old ice cream.

There are a few varieties available: USB 2.0 hard drive enclosure, USB 2.0/Firewire hard drive enclosure, eSATA/USB2.0 hard drive enclosure, USB 2.0 Hub, USB 2.0 hub/card reader, and a power supply to power all of them. They actually look nice when stacked, if you're into the Metal Gear Solid military black motif.

We hope these towers are secure, or else you may become trapped under a pile of USB card readers and Firewire enclosures for hours, having to drink your own urine and sweat to stay alive before someone finds you. – Jason Chen

Product Page [Ultra Products]

Brando AeroCool Infinite Drive: Stick Stuff Into It

Charlie White — Wed, 04 Oct 2006 10:33:11 EDT

Stuff this Brando AeroCool Infinite Drive into your 3.5-inch bay, and it will accommodate more objects than a randy ho at the frat house. It's not only a 25-in-1, four-slot memory card reader, but it also has a removable 2.5-inch hard disk drive mount. Ever helpful, it also offers a couple of USB ports, a headphone jack and a microphone jack. Yours for $61.

Leave it to Brando to try to top all the others with a Swiss Army Knife-style appliance for the PC. This one looks like it could actually be useful, especially if you like to move lots of data around via sneakernet. – Charlie White

Product Page [Brando]

Delkin DVD Burnaway: Flash Memory, Burned Direct to DVD

Charlie White — Wed, 20 Sep 2006 10:43:03 EDT

We remember the Delkin BurnAway for CDs, and now the company has released an equally-overpriced DVD version, the DVD BurnAway that lets you offload your flash memory cards onto a DVD without needing a PC.

It reads a variety of flash memory cards, such as CompactFlash (I&II), Microdrive, SD, MMC, SmartMedia, Memory Stick, MS PRO, and xD (with adapter), and burns all that data onto a DVD, and you can even span data over multiple DVDs if necessary. Hook it up to a TV or projector with an S-Video or RCA cable, and you can play slides directly from the BurnAway.

If you can cope with that steep $370 price, it's actually a versatile little device that can also double as a DVD burner when plugged into your PC via USB 2.0. We have a similar unit sitting on our desk here, and it's actually quite convenient having a combination card reader/DVD burner close at hand. – Charlie White

Product Page [Delkin, via OhGizmo]

Dealzmodo: 24-in-1 USB Memory Card Reader, $10 Shipped

Travis Hudson — Wed, 06 Sep 2006 12:05:13 EDT

So today I am featuring an exclusive "What Travis Needs" Dealzmodo. I recently purchased a DSLR camera—I actually used my keen, frugal shopping skills to find an older generation Canon Digital Rebel on eBay.The camera was delivered yesterday and I have no intention on plugging that beast into my computer every time I want to download pictures. So, off I went hunting for the best deal on a memory card reader. I was looking for the cheapest card reader with the best functionality.

This off-brand memory card reader should be able to do it. It supports 24 different types of memory cards, mainly including the only two that I use: CF and SD. It transfers at USB 2.0 speeds, and I am learning that DSLR cameras produce large ass images, so speed is crucial. Lastly, the biggest cherry on top of this deal is the free shipping to the United States. Can't go wrong with free shipping. – Travis Hudson

Product Page [Meritline]

Kamarack: One Hell of a PC Peripheral

Travis Hudson — Thu, 31 Aug 2006 10:02:39 EDT

This is a 3.5-inch drive bay accessory that features swappable peripherals. There are two miniature bays that can hold 2.5-inch HDD enclosures, USB hubs and memory card readers. Just swap out what you need on the fly. It's like miniature bays for your PC tower bays. Anybody's mind implode in on itself yet? The Kamarack should be available soon, and yes it will even be available in the states. Huzzah! – Travis Hudson

KAMARACK USB 2.5" the Ultimate USB RACK [Akihabara]

Brando 52-in-1 Bluetooth Card Reader: All That, And Disco Lighting, Too

Charlie White — Mon, 28 Aug 2006 09:16:20 EDT

Sure, flash card readers are a dime a dozen, but this USB Bluetooth Card Reader from Brando is a 52-in-1 polyglot that functions as a Bluetooth dongle at the same time. Looking at the list of memory cards the reader supports is just mind-boggling, including just about every flash memory card format ever invented.

If that's not enough for you, check out its disco lighting, using color-changing LEDs that Brando calls "multi-moody colors" indicating that the power is on. Hopefully, this can be turned off. Check out the lengthy and rather entertaining list of supported memory cards after the jump. – Charlie White

Product Page [Brando]

Supported Memory Cards:
• CF I
• CF II
• Extreme CF
• Extreme III CF
• Ultra II CF
• HS CF
• XS-XS CF
• CF Elite PRO
• CF PRO
• CF PRO II
• IMB MD
• Hitachi MD
• MagicStor
• MS
• MS PRO
• MS Duo
• MS PRO Duo
• MS MG
• MS MG PRO
• MS MG Duo
• MS MG PRO Duo
• Extreme MS PRO
• Extreme III MS PRO
• Ultra II MS PRO
• HS MS MG PRO
• HS MS MG PRO Duo
• HS MS PRO
• HS MS PRO Duo
• MS ROM
• MS Select
• SD
• *MiniSD
• HS Mini SD
• Extreme SD
• Extreme III SD
• Ultra II SD
• SD-Ultra-X
• Ultra speed SD
• SD PRO
• SD Elite PRO
• HS SD
• MMC
• MMC 4.0
• HS MMC
• HS RS MMC
• RS MMC
• RS MMC 4.0
• DV-RS MMC
• SM
• SM ROM
• XD
• *T-Flash
* means CARD ADAPTER is needed

Planex PL-35UXA 3-in-1 HDD Enclosure

Travis Hudson — Thu, 10 Aug 2006 11:29:43 EDT

This hard drive enclosure from Planex may be the ultimate do-it-all peripheral for your desk. It will replace the plethora of wires and hubs humping your already cramped work space. The PL-35UXA is initially a 3.5-inch hard drive enclosure that accepts drives up to 750GB in size, but the fun doesn't end there. This beauty also includes a two-port USB hub and a card reader. It can transfer via USB 2.0 or Firewire. Best of all, the candy-apple red finish will match your gaudy tie that you insist wearing day-in and day-out. – Travis Hudson

Product Page [Via Akihabara]

Memory Card Reader, Calculator

Travis Hudson — Wed, 09 Aug 2006 13:33:06 EDT

Efficiency is the name of the game with this gadget. I don't know how many times I have been desperately trying to transfer photos from a memory card while balancing my checkbook at the same time, but this could solve that problem. This memory card reader supports a kajillion different memory types and includes a basic calculator. Even if you don't have any calculations to do, you could kill time while transferring by spelling out BOOBS on the calculator.

It also has a calendar, timer and alarm. Damn, MacGyver eat your heart out. – Travis Hudson

Product Page [Via Red Ferret]