Other World Computing (OWC) on Thursday introduced its Mercury On-The-Go line of USB 2.0-based external hard disk drives, compatible with Macs, PCs and Linux systems. The USB-only drives join other FireWire and FireWire/USB combo drives already available. Prices range from $109.99 to $269.99 depending on capacity.
The Mercury On-The-Go line features 2.5-inch hard disk drive mechanisms in a small external chassis, designed for maximum portability while still using shock-isolation technology to protect the delicate drive inside.
OWC noted that Apple’s new Intel Macs, including the MacBook Pro laptop, can boot off of USB 2.0 drives — something PowerPC-based systems can’t do.
The Mercury On-The-Go USB 2.0 drives ship with a carrying case, cables, Dantz/EMC’s Retrospect backup software and Intech Speed Tools.
System requirements call for Mac OS 8.5 through 9.2.x or Mac OS X v10.0.3 or later.
Capacities are available from 40GB to 120GB.