Not long ago, I wrote about the ease (and importance) of backing up
your system via standard CDs as a viable and relatively simple procedure
for most.
However, the number of questions I received afterwards made it apparent
that not everyone who owns a computer is comfortable and knowledgeable
regarding the process of burning CDs and that many users simply don't
know how to find the files that are important to back up in the first
place.
Along with these questions, at least one of my readers suggested that
I investigate a product they personally used, a portable hard drive
from CMS Peripherals.
Their timing was perfect because not long after acquiring the CMS
Automatic Backup System (ABS) Plus my hard drive decided it was time
to call it quits. There's absolutely no doubt that the ABS Plus made
the process of recovery a much more pleasant experience.
Part hardware
From a physical perspective, the ABS Plus is nothing more than a very
handy (and very portable) hard drive. Sizes range from a mere 7 oz.
for portable models to 2.4 lbs. for those intended for use for desktop
and server backups. Storage capacities range from 20 GB all the way
up to a whopping 250 GB.
Part software
What makes the system so clever (aside from the fit-in-your-palm
size) is the included software that makes backing up your computer
a fast and efficient process that requires practically no technology
sophistication. If you can figure out where to plug in the cords,
then you have all the skills necessary to back up your system.
Speaking of cords, CMS offers a number of choices. You can purchase
models that work with USB 1.1 and 2.0, FireWire or even PC card adapters
that will connect to just about any notebook manufactured.
I personally chose the 20 GB portable unit ($279 retail) using a
USB 2 connector for the simple reason that the USB 2 standard is extremely
fast, and is common to both notebooks and desktop computers. In addition,
USB allows not only the transfer of data, but also the supply of power
to the ABS Plus itself.
This allows me to carry 20 GB of data in a mere 7 oz. package; which
can be used for both back-ups and also for moving data from computer
to computer.
While the price of the ABS unit is not insignificant, the flexibility
and protection offered is certainly a worthwhile value -- and perhaps
the only way that many will finally be "backed up" with ease.
Published: November 20, 2003
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