March 14, 2001

Avoiding the crunch
Higher-capacity storage for handheld devices

Users of PDAs, digital cameras, and other pocket-sized devices may initially be pleased as punch with the advanced capabilities of their wireless digital companions. But the bloom comes off the rose as soon as they discover that when it comes to storing memory-hungry files and applications, the storage capabilities of many handheld devices are clearly not up to the task.

For those who wish to store digital still pictures, video clips, music tracks, and other large files snagged on the fly, Iomega recently previewed its low-cost drive for handheld devices. Called the PocketZip, the product uses matchbook-sized 100-Mbyte discs that are expected to retail for as little as $10 each, or just 10 cents/Mbyte. That's a mighty hefty improvement over solid-state memory, which can cost upwards of $1.50 to $2.00/Mbyte.

The PocketZip platform also retains full compatibility with the key features and benefits of the company's original Iomega PocketZip 40-Mbyte disk. In addition, PocketZip disks are serialized to integrate with digital-rights-management systems from companies such as Microsoft and InterTrust. This is one option that Iomega claims is not available with CD-R discs and most solid-state memory cards.

The 100-Mbyte PocketZip drive and disks are scheduled for international release in Q3, just in time for the holiday shopping season.

—Mark Long, News Correspondent