The iStorage diskAshur DT 3TB is a
high-capacity desktop drive with hardware encryption, locked down using a
number keypad.
A 3.5in desktop SATA disk is not only
faster than a 2.5in laptop drive, but it lets you break the 1TB ceiling of such
models. iStorage offers 1TB, 2TB and 3TB capacities.
iStorage
disk Ashur DT 3TB
Disadvantages include size, weight and
power. Whereas a portable 2.5in drive will weigh around 200g, the diskAshur is
more brick-like in its dimensions and weight. It also has a 158g PSU.
Number keypads are a fitting way to lock
down encrypted hard drives. In contrast to software-based solutions, they have
better longevity in the field and can be more secure.
Encryption is through a hardware chip, with
passcodes entered only through the drive's keypad. This reduces the likelihood
that your code can be recorded and your drive and data hacked.
The diskAshur DT can be easy to use. The
Quick Start instructions cover the creation of a single admin PIN code; delve
deeper and you'll find separate user-and self-destruct codes, plus auto-timeout
locks. All are accessible through arcane key presses and signalled with an
array of flashing LEDs.
The
diskAshur DT can be easy to use. The Quick Start instructions cover the
creation of a single admin PIN code; delve deeper and you'll find separate
user-and self-destruct codes, plus auto-timeout locks.
The unit is very well constructed from
extruded aluminium, and finished with a tough-feeling black paint. A perforated
front plate allows ventilation; no fan is present.
The buttons are rubber-topped and have a
confident click action. A telephone-style keypad adds letters to help you
construct a PIN based on a memorable word or phrase.
Data connection is through a USB 3.0 Type B
port, and a Kensington lock slot provides security against casual theft.
We tested the 3TB version and recorded
superb read/write performance. In the Blackmagic Disk Speed test, sequential
read speeds hit 140MB per second (MBps), with writes of 150MBps. QuickBench
showed similar large-file results, peaking at 155MBps reads with 4MB files, and
158MBps writes with 2MB files. Averaged across the 2- to 10MB range,
read/writes measured 143- and 149MBps respectively.
Down at the small file level, sequential
read/writes averaged 100- and 104MBps, while random read/writes hit 24- and
45MBps.
Verdict
The diskAshur DT comes highly recommended
as static secure storage with huge capacity. Its easy-to-operate locking
mechanism keeps data safe under AES-256 lock and key.
|
Details
|
|
Price
|
$438
|
|
Contact:
|
isotorage-uk.com
|
|
Specification
|
External desktop hard drive; data
encryption with 0-9 number pad; AES-256 encryption; USB 3.0 Type B port; 12V
DC power inlet; 12V DC power plug; Kensington lock slot; 183x112x40mm; 1.18kg
|
|
Build
|
4/5
|
|
Features
|
3/5
|
|
Performance
|
5/5
|
|
Value
|
4/5
|
