Introduction

I would like to thank A-DATA for supplying the review sample. The company produces some very unique and useful memory products, ranging from a complete offering of notebook and desktop memory over memory cards in various shapes, sizes and speeds to USB storage in many flavors. A-DATA also has licenses to produce such memory devices with themes of Pirates of the Carribbian and Disney.

From the manufacturer:

• Enhanced for Windows® ReadyBoost™
• Support USB specification version 2.0 and compatible with USB 1.1
• No external power or battery needed
• Hot Plug & Play
• LED indication for data access
• Desktop or notebook computer with USB port
• One of following operating systems Windows®: 98/98SE/ME/2000/XP/Vista™ or later, Mac®: OS 9.0 or later Linux™: Kernel 2.4 or later
• For driver for Windows® 98 and AP software
• Size: 72.89 x 22.53 x 12.74 mm(LxWxH)
• Weight: 19g

Packaging

The rugged RB19 comes packaged in the usual all clear, plastic package. It has a small cardboard inlay with a surfer as a backdrop. This seems like a good choice as A-DATA advertises the RB19 to be water proof. The back simply lists all the above mentioned features in multiple languages. On a small note, A-DATA actually translated certain English terms word for word into German, in which these do not make any sense anymore.

A Closer Look

The general shape of the RB19 can be described as traditional. When compared to other such memory devices on the market, past or present, the overall size is quite similar. The protective rubber padding makes up the bulk of the device.


A-DATA supplied us with the green variant, but it is also available in an orange tone. There is a small hole so that you can put it on your key chain. On the front there is a green LED right under this hole, which let's you know when the USB stick is being accessed. There is a white A-DATA logo on the front and a dark URL of the company on the other side.


The cap of the RB19 simply slides over the USB connector. It is made completely of soft rubber. It is tight enough to hold well on the connector, so you will not have to worry about losing it. The key chain hole is on the device itself as well, so the worse that can happen when you are surfing or doing some other kind of extreme sport is a lost cap. The side of the RB19 is a bit thinner than the center.