Movin' Stuff Around and More!!!
by Gary Woods

One of the problems with getting a new computer is getting all your stuff off the old computer and moving it to the new one. My favorite new way for moving stuff is a USB Key. These little devices don't require any extra software drivers and plug into the USB port of any Windows 98SE, ME, 2000 or XP machine, as well as Mac OS 9.1.x+ or OS X v10.1.2+. The keys come in sizes anywhere from 32 Megabytes for about $20 to 2 Gigabytes for about $500.

The latest batch of Memory Keys do a lot more than store data. For instance say you want the PC you use at home to look and function as much as possible like your computer in the office. There's a USB Key called Migo from Forward Solutions (www.4migo.com) that with the included software will automatically copy your Outlook folders such as mail, contacts, and calendar. It can also store settings such as your desktop wallpaper and Internet Explorer favorites.

There are other keys with enhanced security features. For instance EasyTrust by M-Systems sold under brands like Iomega and HP offers encrypted data and a lot of convenience for moving your data around.

A lot of people are carrying these devices on their key rings ready to move stuff at a moments notice. I think this is one of the coolest things that have come down the pike in quite a while.

If you have any suggestions or questions for me please drop me a note at garyandlaury@santabarbaraproperties.com or see my column on the Internet at http://www.santabarbaraproperties.com or call me at (805) 729-0910