Introduction

Everybody knows OCZ as memory module manufacturer. In recent times they have launched new product lines. One of them is USB sticks. What started with the OCZ Rally has now evolved into a whole setup of USB sticks, each made for a different type of customer.

The OCZ Rally for example was the first USB key employing dual channel technology, which made it the fastest product on the market.

Today we have the OCZ Roadster which has been engineered to be as small and portable as possible. For me USB sticks are today what floppies were yesterday. They are an easy way to move data around, when you don't have a network connection. Also they are extremely useful when you put DOS on them to flash your BIOS.

From the manufacturer OCZ Technology:

• High Speed USB 2.0 Certified
• True Plug and Play (Compatible with MAC OS X)
• Foldable for compact transport
• Designed to be small and functional
• Compatible with: Windows: 98/98SE/Me/2000/XP
• Linux: Kernel 2.4 or later
• Mac: OS 9.0 or later
• 3 Year Warranty
• Accessories: OCZ Accessory Strap

Packaging

The OCZ Roadster comes sealed in a blister pack like most other USB sticks. I consider myself lucky that over the years I have learned how to safely open those packages without major injuries and blood splats on the product.


The package includes the USB stick of course, an accessory strap and an USB extension cable. Personally I find the cable very useful since you no longer have to crawl under your desk to attach the stick if you don't have a keyboard or monitor with USB ports.

The Stick

OCZ's Roadster is small, black and sexy, the material used on the stick is plastic.


When you unfold the stick, the USB plug is revealed. All circuitry is inside the plug metal. This means that there is no cap which you could lose. I think I lost the cap of every single USB stick I have.


For comparison I placed the OCZ Roadster on a CD. As you can see it is really tiny.


The hinge can be moved easily, yet is stays in place until you apply some force.


This small metal dot makes sure that the case locks safely once closed.


With the accessory strap attached you can easily carry the stick around in your pockets without losing it.