Lexar Media Inc. on Thursday announced the release of two new high-speed CompactFlash readers and a new version of its Image Rescue software, which Lexar claims can recover “lost” digital images from any memory card.
The two new readers are about the size of four AA batteries and weigh about 1.5 ounces. They both sport protective caps that store a CompactFlash card inside the reader in transport and doubles as a stand when the reader is in use. One reader is FireWire-equipped while the other is outfitted with a USB 2.0 interface.
Lexar said that users can expect to transfer data 4 to 5 times faster using these readers than comparable USB 1.1 devices. The FireWire version comes with a new “ultra thin” cable. The FireWire and USB 2.0 readers are available for US$49.99 and $24.99 respectively.
Image Rescue 2.0 also made its debut this week. The software is a recovery utility that helps users get back “lost” or deleted digital images stored on any memory card, regardless of format or manufacturer. The new version expands reader support to include any mass storage-compliant card readers.
Lexar claims that Image Rescue can recover data from the card even if the computer doesn’t recognize it. It can recover JPEG images, TIFF files and most RAW file formats, and in some cases can even recover Word and PowerPoint documents.
Image Rescue 2.0 can also “permanently” erase confidential data from memory cards as well, according to Lexar Media director, OEM and pro product marketing, John Omvik. What’s more, the software can upgrade Lexar CompactFlash firmware and provides details for Lexar tech support when additional help is needed; if used with Lexar’s optional “JumpShot” cable, bundled with Lexar Professional Series CompactFlash cards and available separately for $12.99.
Bundled free of charge on Lexar’s Professional Series CompactFlash media, Image Rescue 2.0 works on Mac OS X v10.2 or higher and various flavors of Windows. It’ll also be available on store shelves as a retail product this November with a suggested retail price of $39.95.
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