New Apollo Imation External HDDs up to 1.5TB

Imation Corp. announced two new products in its Apollo family of external hard drives (EHD). First, the 2.5-inch Apollo Expert, a line of pocket-sized, portable EHDs sheathed in a protective skin that looks just as striking vertically or horizontally on their integrated swivel stands. Next, the Apollo Pro, a line of 3.5-inch EHDs that keeps impressive data capacities and stands out on the desk. The Apollo Pro line today debuts the Apollo Pro WX, adding certified USB wireless capability for users who want to clear the cords from their workspace.

Apollo Expert

"We design our Apollo EHDs to be utilitarian and iconic," said Subodh Kulkarni, vice president, Global Commercial Business, R&D and Manufacturing, Imation. "Utilitarian, because Apollo drives deliver the features and pure data storage performance that users need and crave; iconic, because Apollo drives simply look very good. Both lines provide a unique mix of features and benefits in both portable and desktop options, and Imation’s Apollo Pro line offers consumers the Apollo Pro WX – an easy-to-use EHD that enables a cable-free, hassle-free workspace."

The Apollo Expert and Pro lines boast parallels and differences to satisfy the individual needs of users relying on proven data storage. Line similarities include integrated stands for vertical or horizontal orientation, low capacity/data activity indicator lights for easy identification of data processes with built-in sleep mode for energy conservation and one-touch, backup sync buttons for easy-to-use, automatic backup of data, photos, music and videos. Both lines are compatible with PC or Mac computers.

Conversely, feature differences among the products make them as unique as the products’ users. For example, the Apollo Expert UX provides portability and a leading-edge 2.5-inch form factor, along with a protective skin to prevent scratches and abrasions; whereas the Apollo Pro UX provides techno-savvy desktop users with a new-generation 3.5-inch durable form factor. The Pro line also delivers a unique solution for those on a mission to conquer cable clutter. The Apollo Pro WX, a certified wireless USB device, is ideal for clearing cords from your workspace. In addition to combining mass storage capability, the Apollo Pro WX provides users the convenience and security of wired USB and unique auto backup software for easy backup scheduling, synchronization and restoration functions.

"With the launch of its new Apollo family, Imation provides the depth and breadth to an external hard drive line that can meet the demands of most users," said Wolfgang Schlichting, research director, IDC. "Imation is focusing on design and function to address the specific needs to store, access, connect and protect data in desktop and mobile environments. With its new certified wireless USB storage device, Imation enables wireless connectivity, a feature that will become popular in many personal storage devices in the next few years."

About Wireless USB Certification
Imation’s Apollo Pro WX wireless USB product certification is through the USB-IF (USB Implementers Forum, Inc.),
who define and test wireless USB products to acceptable levels of
performance. This certification also grants Imation the right to
license the USB-IF wireless logo.

Availability
The new Imation family of Apollo Expert and Pro external hard drive lines will be available in Q4 2008 in capacities ranging from 250 GB to 1.5 Terabyte through authorized Imation distributors, wholesalers, resellers and e-tailers worldwide.