Virtual-Hideout | Corsair 8GB USB 2.0 Flash Voyager Review

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Corsair 8GB USB 2.0 Flash Voyager Review

Date Published:
12-07-2006

Written By:
Diceman

Edited By:
Diceman

Provided By:
Corsair

Where to Buy:
Corsair

Discuss Article:
VH Forum link

Pages: 1 2

Introduction:

I needed a simple yet effective way to move large amounts of data (a few GB's) from one PC to another. I didn't want to mess with burning CD's or DVD's, or physically connecting two computers. In my situation with reviewing lots of different hardware, being able to physically connect 2 working machines, or at least the RIGHT two machines isn't always possible. I needed something I could throw data on, then use it when I needed it without fear of hard drive formats, etc.

Enter the USB Flash Drive. One of the greatest PC accessories for the multi-PC home, or user, ever invented. This little trinket will allow you to easily (and I stress EASILY) copy large chunks of data onto it to store, then use it whenever needed as long as you have an available USB port.

Now this isn't really a new thing. USB Flash Drives have been out for quite some time. However recently they've been diving into lower price ranges, and exploding in higher capacities. I remember a few years ago I reviewed a 128mb USB flash drive (one of the first USB flash drives EVER) and it was more expensive then the 8GB model I'm reviewing here today. Such is life in the fast lane that is technology.

Speaking of what I have for you today: It's the newest Corsair 8GB USB 2.0 Flash Voyager. This is certainly one of, if not THE, best USB Flash Drive on the market for it's speed and durability. It's completely rubberized, has a 10yr warranty, and is virtually indestructible!

Features:

Plug & Play functionality in Windows® XP, 2000, ME, Linux 2.4 and later, Mac OS 9, X and later
Includes the True Crypt security application allowing for a virtual encrypted drive using AES-256 encryption
Lanyard, USB cable and driver CD included (not available on 512MB and 1GB models)
Ten year warranty

A Closer Look:

Retail Front	Retail Rear
Close-Up	Close-Up

The packaging is sealed airtight and bomb-proof. I had to break out the razor knife to gain access. Once inside I retrieved the expected goods. I say expected because this unit is an absolute twin to the 1GB version I reviewed back in 4/2006. I loved it then and I still love it.

What you get	Lid off
Friction Fit Lid	Got Lanyard?

In the package you get a tiny driver CD, Corsair Lanyard, and the USB Extension cable which looks great and really makes life easier by allowing you some breathing room from the cramped motherboard USB ports. I leave my USB extension cable plugged in all the time and use it all kinds of things.

The lid on the flash voyager is held on with tension. Since it's rubber and stretches, you just kinda stretch it over the USB dongle. It works great and stays on quite well. Some people don't like it, some would rather have it attached somehow. I don't mind the way it is. Keep in mind this entire unit is made from soft rubber, not hard plastic.

Installation:

The installation process is a complete no-brainer. As long as you've got a Windows XP machine, you just plug-n-play. If you've got an older Windows 98 machine, corsair includes a driver CD for you too. I personally use Windows XP SP2 and all I needed to do was plug it in, windows did the rest in seconds.

Testing

Blue LED when in Use

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