Portable Hard Disk Drive Hardware and Software

Do you have lots of data that you work on and need to finish up at homebut don't have a laptop? Consider getting yourself a portable 2.5" External HDD. 2.5" HDD have an added advantage over 3.5" HDD in that they can run from USB, without power supply. You don't need to lug around the DC power adapter and long cords. 2.5" HDD are also smaller and can fit your pockets.

This is the easiest way. Just purchase and it is ready to use. It usually comes together with File Syncronizing and Encryption software. Cost-wise, it may be slightly more expensive. It is designed to be shock-resistant and has a heat sink to keep it cool.

This is not for anybody -only for those who like to play around with gadgets. You need to buy:

1. A hard disk enclosure of the right form factor (2.5") for laptops
2. A 2.5" Internal SATA hard disk (or you may use an old hard disk)

Plug-in the hard disk to the enclosure board. Slide in the board with hard disk into the casing. Tighten the screws. Connect the USB cord to the enclosure and then to the PC. You may need to connect to 2 USB ports on the PC.

Next, format your hard disk using Disk Management (Control Panel --> Administrative Tools --> Computer Management -->Storage). What about File Synchronization and Encryption software? There are lots of freewares available on the internet to choose from. I would personally use Allway Sync 'n' Go (http://allwaysync.com/index.html) and True Crypt (http://www.truecrypt.org/). Both softwares can run by itself from the portable hard disk without installing on a PC. You are now ready to let your data travel!