Ipevo To Launch Mini Network Storage Adapter ($59)

Internet-based technology company, IPEVO, Inc., has slated early February 2010 for the premiere of its newest product, the Mini Network Storage Adapter. Mini Network Storage Adapter turns any USB storage device into a versatile file-sharing server for use on a local area network (LAN). Users – both wired and wireless – can share and access files located on the USB storage device through their accustomed operating system environment – either Mac, PC, or Linux.

Mini Network Storage Adapter’s name is derived from its small size – it measures 2.9 x 2.5 x 1.2 inches, and is lightweight at a mere two ounces. The leprechaun green, box-shaped adapter features an Ethernet port to connect to a router, as well as a high-speed USB 2.0 port to connect to the storage device. Mini Network Storage Adapter is powered with an included AC adapter. By default, the adapter uses a dynamic IP address assigned by the router, though it can be configured to use a static IP address.

Device management for Mini Network Storage Adapter is accomplished through an included interface called the IPEVO Mini Dashboard, which appears in the administrator’s default web browser. Dashboard provides several customization options, including: set up and modification of FTP and Samba (SMB) servers for users (up to 8) to connect to the storage device; password protection and access restriction; the choice of which folders to share; disk utility features like scanning, power-saving shutoff mode, and FAT 32 formatting (drives must conform to FAT32 format); and one-click firmware upgrade for any future versions of the software.

Dashboard also allows a network administrator to make video, photo, and music files available for Xbox 360, Playstation 3, and iTunes, allowing users to stream multimedia content directly from the drive. In addition, Dashboard features a BitTorrent client to facilitate Torrent downloads. Up to 4 Torrent files can be simultaneously downloaded directly to the USB storage device, without the need for a computer intermediary. Additionally, up to 32 Torrent files can be queued at one time. The BitTorrent client provides the ability to pause, stop, and restart Torrents in the download queue. Users can also elect to receive email notification when a Torrent is fully downloaded.

IPEVO’s Mini Network Storage Adapter will be released worldwide in February, and will be available exclusively through the company’s online store at a price of $59.