O&O PartitionManager 3 ($99)

Windows servers can now be administered using O&O PartitionManager 3 from Berlin-based O&O Software GmbH. It also now increases data security and server performance with help from the integrated technology of O&O SafeErase and O&O Defrag. O&O Defrag paves the way for optimal partition shrinkage, whereas the O&O SafeErase technology securely deletes data and free disk space so that old hardware can be sold or passed on with no danger of sensitive data being accessed.

The server version comes into its own when working with dynamic disks: it can create and manage spanned, mirrored and also RAID 5 volumes, while at the same time increasing data security and system performance.

All types of drives under Windows are supported, including basic and dynamic, both in either MBR or GPT Format.

O&O PartitionManager displays the properties of physical storage volumes, and shows whether they are defective or not. Further information on the defective disks is also supplied in the form of S.M.A.R.T values.

O&O PartitionManager can be started direct from CD with no need for a running operating system, thanks to the Start CD, included in delivery. This enables changes to be made to the system partition, for example. The Start CD is based on Windows Preinstallation Environment (PE) and has a very similar interface to Windows itself.

Functions at a glance

• Conversion between logical and primary partitions: The ability to convert primary partitions to logical ones enables users to create extra storage space for a system partition, or to move a partition where no free primary partition or logical drive is available.
• Display hidden drives: Start or Recovery Partitions are not normally accessible by the user. With the new O&O PartitionManager 3, they can simply be opened and accessed through the O&O FileExplorer window.
• Create, delete, extend and shrink partitions: Partitions can be changed, depending on their size and occupancy. A large partition can be split into several smaller parts by reducing it to the minimum size and splitting the freed up space into smaller partitions.
• Change system partitions with the Start CD: The Windows-based Start CD can extend, shrink or move system partitions, depending on the data volume and file system. Using the Start CD is much like using Windows, so changing system partitions is relatively simple for most users.
• Storage volume properties: O&O PartitionManager 3 analyses the storage volume and displays the disk and volume status with appropriate explanations. If the status of the physical volume is ‘defective’, a detailed description of the error is made available. The program also uses S.M.A.R.T. Technology in order to evaluate information from hard disks under Windows. This can warn users of potential defects and prevent data loss by warning of possible hardware failure.
• Integrated O&O Technologies: O&O PartitionManager contains technology from the multiple award-winning products O&O Defrag and O&O SafeErase. O&O Defrag substantially increases the hard disk performance, paving the way for optimal partition shrinkage for example. The O&O SafeErase technology guarantees that data and free disk space are securely deleted and cannot be recovered again, so that storage volumes can be sold or passed on with no danger of sensitive data being accessed. The Start CD also includes various system management tools, including O&O FileExplorer, O&O RegEditor and O&O CheckDisk.
• Support of all drive types, including Basic MBR and GPT volumes and dynamic MBR and GPT volumes: As well as MBR storage volumes, dynamic volumes, removable volumes, USB sticks and memory cards are all recognized and supported. This means various volume types can be created and converted amongst each other. Dynamic volumes can be generated from basic volumes, and partitions can be put together into ‘spanned‘ partitions with just a few mouse clicks.

Prices and availability
This version is free when obtained through the O&O EasyLicensing SMB. O&O PartitionManager 3 Server Edition is available at an introductory price of €99.00 / US$ 99.00 / £69.00 net until the 30th April, 2010, after which the price will be €199.00 / US$ 199.00 / £139.00. An upgrade from a previous version or from a competing commercial product at the introductory price costs €59.40 / US$59.40 / £36.03, and after that €119.40 / US$119.40 / £73.03 net. Customers can purchase O&O PartitionManager from all main retail stores, Amazon and various online-retailers.

Resellers can obtain O&O PartitionManager 3 from the O&O Authorized Distributors in their respective territory.

Interested users can download a free trial version of O&O PartitionManager 3 Server Edition from the O&O Software website. This trial version allows users to manage their partitions and test the various functions for a period of 30 days.