It takes an adjustment in thinking to imagine that using hard drive data without the operating system working. However, that is the concept behind the FlashMate technology:

“New FlashMate hybrid hard drive technology has been introduced that allows data to be read, even when the computer is switched off.

This enables notebook users to access content on the hard disk drive, without having to power on the computer, in order for example to listen to MP3 files, view digital pictures, access email…”

link: Hybrid Hard Drive Works Without Windows

news release link: SST and Insyde Software Unveil FlashMate Technology Enabling New Mobile Computing Usage Models

The retail launch is scheduled for the middle of 2008. And there is no indication of cost yet.

Catherine Forsythe

[tags]hard drive, flashmate, hybrid, launch[/tags]