Iomega Adds Torrent To Home Storage Device

Iomega on Tuesday launched an upgrade of its network-attached storage device for homes and small businesses.

Among the new features in the StorCenter ix2 Network Drive are remote access and peer-to-peer file sharing, as well as some ease-of-use enhancements, said Iomega, which is owned by EMC. The network-attached storage device, which Iomega introduced in October, uses up to two SATA-II drives and is available in a 1- or 2-TB model.

The new remote access feature enables users to enter a personalized Web address in a browser in a PC in any location to access files. The service is offered at no charge for the first year, and $9.95 a year thereafter.

The updated device also includes Torrent peer-to-peer file-sharing technology for managing downloads of large media files directly to the StorCenter ix2. The feature is more reliable than first downloading the file to a PC, according to Iomega.

Other new features include the ability to set maximum capacities for shared storage folders and native support for the Apple File Protocol used for file sharing with the Mac.

Iomega claims the StorCenter ix2 can configure up to 2 TB of storage with four mouse clicks. PCs and devices that support Universal Plug and Play and Digital Living Network Alliance standards can be connected either through Bluetooth wireless technology or a Gigabit Ethernet wired connection.

Other general capabilities include technology using an Axis video surveillance camera for inexpensive viewing and recording of activity inside our outside the office. Up to two USB devices, such as a network printer, can be connected to the StorCenter ix2.

The new product comes with up to 2 GB of online backup through EMC's MozyHome service at no charge. Unlimited online backup is available for $4.95 a month per computer. The 1-TB StorCenter ix2 has a suggested retail price of $300 and the 2-TB model $480.

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