Sony products are many things but good value isn't normally top of the list.

Stylish, competent and nicely built are all commonly associated with Sony but buyers usually pay through the nose for that prestige.

The new Micro Vault is different. It is similar to the other USB storage devices on the market, although this is the first we have seen which uses USB 2.

This means that files can be transferred between the PC and the Micro Vault faster than with standard USB storage devices.

It functions perfectly well when plugged into a USB port but the performance boost when hooked up to a faster port is both noticeable and desirable.

At £130, it represents excellent value as well. Like all USB storage devices, it works on Windows Me, XP and 2000 computers with no drivers, while users of Windows 98 computers can use the supplied CD-Rom to get things up and running.

The disc also includes password protection software, so that if the device is stolen or lost any information on it will be secure.

DETAILS
Price: £130
Contact: Sony 020 7365 2947
www.sonystyle-europe.com