SmartDisk Introduces New Line of Flash Media Readers

NAPLES, Fla.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--June 21, 2001 via NewsEdge Corporation - SmartDisk Corporation today announced new Universal Serial Bus (USB)-based flash media readers for CompactFlash, SmartMedia, Memory Stick and Secure Digital (SD)/ MultiMediaCard (MMC) media cards. With the new readers, users of digital still cameras, digital video camcorders, palm- held computers and other digital appliances can quickly and conveniently transfer their digital files to personal computers or the Internet. SmartDisk will demonstrate its flash media readers at DigitalFocus in New York City, June 25 at the Metropolitan Pavilion.

The new line includes the SmartDisk SmartMedia Reader, the SmartDisk CompactFlash Reader, the SmartDisk Memory Stick Reader and the SmartDisk SD/MMC Reader (for Secure Digital media cards and MultiMediaCards). All four models feature a vertically oriented casing, allowing users to insert and remove media comfortably with just one hand. Most flash media readers sit flat on a desktop, requiring users to pick them up to insert or eject the media card. The SmartDisk readers also feature eject connectors that allow for swift and smooth insertion and removal of media cards. Included with the readers will be ACDSee 3.1 photo editing and management software from ACD Systems, which has a retail value of .95.

For convenience in installing the units on desktops or in computer workstations, the new SmartDisk readers feature a detachable USB cable. They are packaged with a one- meter cable that can be swapped out for one of greater or lesser length, depending on user needs.

To simplify the installation process, the SmartDisk readers are designed as "Mass Storage Class" devices, which means they do not require driver software to be installed on most computers prior to use. Users simply plug the readers into their computer's USB port and the operating system is ready to communicate with the readers. This is particularly convenient for users who want to use their SmartDisk reader on more than one computer and don't want to carry driver software.

The SmartDisk SmartMedia Reader, SmartDisk CompactFlash Reader and SmartDisk Memory Stick Reader will be available at the end of July. The SmartDisk Secure Digital/MultiMediaCard Reader will ship in the fourth quarter. All of the readers, priced at .95 each, will be available through distributors and resellers and directly through SmartDisk's Web site.