Plextor PlexEasy backup drive launched

Posted on 17 Feb 2012 at 12:08

Plextor has announced its latest backup product, the PlexEasy, which allows users to transfer and back-up data onto DVDs and CDs without needing to use a computer.

While the PlexEasy appears at first glance to be a traditional external DVD writer, the system has a hidden feature: support for backing up important data on the go, with no laptop or PC required.

The PlexEasy includes support for the Picture Transfer Protocol (PTP), a common method for smartphones and digital cameras to print images. When a compatible device is connected to the PlexEasy, it allows the user to transfer the images or video directly onto a blank CD or DVD using the camera's user interface.

The system also supports USB mass storage devices, allowing the contents of external hard drives, MP3 players, USB flash drives and SD/MMC cards via an included reader, which can be accessed and used as a backup medium.

When used as a traditional external DVD drive, the PlexEasy supports bus power mode - meaning there are no separate power cables required - and writes DVDs at 8x speed. In stand-alone mode, the device requires a 5V power adapter, included in the package.

A monochrome LCD on the top of the drive provides feedback for the backup process, and despite its impressive list of features the PlexEasy is remarkably compact: measuring just 142x182x21mm and weighing 385g, Plextor appears to have managed to add some extra functionality without making the device cumbersome to carry.

While it's unlikely to convince those who already have an external DVD writer to upgrade, those who haven't yet taken the plunge may find the stand-alone functionality a handy feature - especially if they are photography buffs.

The PlexEasy is available in the UK now following a successful US launch last December, priced at £90 including VAT.

Author: Gareth Halfacree

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User comments

It's easy, but...

If you have an extensive CD library you want to convert to digital this may not be the device for you. You can attach an external USB hard drive to the Plexeasy, very nice. You can drop in an audio CD and select Audio Rip on the device's screen. Hit enter a couple times and you're ripping away. 5 minutes later you have a file folder with all your tracks in .WAV format. Problem. The folder name is CDDA_1. The track names are track1.wav, track2.wav, etc. No CD metadata comes across. You have your CD ripped and in high quality digital format, but it's not identified. The second cd you rip goes in a folder CDDA2, and it's tracks are track1.wav, etc. Now what to do? How do you convert your generic tracks to the album's title, band name, track names, etc? Good product, just not great.

By elbowman on 21 Apr 2012