My ToughDrive was supposed to be the 4GB version; however, when I opened the user manual and started tinkering with my toy, I realized there was only 38 MB of storage space, which wouldn’t allow me to take advantage of the Ready Boost feature for Windows Vista or 30 MB/sec transfer rate. And alas, all my attempts at reformatting were useless.
So instead I tried messing with the password protection system. The Tough Drive comes with a program that allows you to partition your information into a password protected area and a generally accessible area. The program is fairly simple and easy to use. However, it is also self-deleting. If you partition too much, the manual warns that your information will be deleted. But also be warned, not only your information, but the user’s manual and the program also. And as much as you wish the website on the back of the package actually took you to an on-line version of the manual, it doesn’t.
I’ve been waiting now to get my replacement flash drive, but have yet to speak to someone helpful. I don’t want to say right out that this storage device isn’t worth buying based on my experience with it. With all technology, you’re going to have these problems, and I’ve read several reviews by people who have had an excellent experience with the ToughDrive USB 2.0. But I've also read some that have had similar trouble.
Basically if you’re the type that’s always on the move, often drops things and runs over them on accident, or likes proving that everything man-made is in fact breakable, the ToughDrive might work for you. But maybe if you’re looking for something a little more reliable, you might want to save your fifty bucks and study up on some other flash drives that might not give you so much trouble.
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