DIGITAL PHOTOGRAPHY NEWS

LaCie Unveils Biometric Access Hard Drive to Protect Intellectual Property

Features AES Encryption and Triple Interface

• Protect intellectual property from unauthorized use
• Triple security: biometrics, hardware encryption, chain lock
• Convenient and secure data access control
• Triple interface hard drive for Windows/Mac

PORTLAND, OR (January 2007) - LaCie today unveiled a new biometric storage solution with triple interface and triple security levels. The LaCie d2 SAFE Hard Drive is equipped with a biometric sensor, 128-bit AES hardware encryption technology, and chain lock port for maximum protection against unauthorized use. It comes in LaCie's trusted d2 design made of sturdy aluminum alloy with three interfaces-FireWire 800/400 and USB 2.0-for universal access on Windows® or Mac OS®. The 500GB capacity is available today, with additional capacities planned for spring.

"LaCie has been a champion for developing secure storage devices with built-in biometric access control for consumers and businesses alike," said Marie Renouard, LaCie Product Manager. "Today we expand our range to include a level of protection strong enough for corporate and governmental needs. This secure data encryption ensures that data remains safe in every situation. With faster FireWire interfaces, the d2 SAFE is designed to guard intellectual property, giving complete control to musicians, designers or anyone working with original creations over who sees projects and when."

The 128-bit AES hardware encryption technology offers the highest level of data security, deemed by the U.S. Government (NSA) in 2003 as secure enough to protect classified information up to the TOP SECRET level. Files are automatically encoded on the hard drive without compromising the performance of FireWire 800/400 or USB 2.0.

LaCie d2 SAFE provides ultra-secure and convenient data access control via fingerprint recognition. Up to 10 fingerprints (five users with minimum two prints each) can be registered with personal and customized access privileges such as full access to the drive (read/write) or read-only. Once registered, a simple finger swipe locks and unlocks the drive if users need to step away from their desk for a meeting or to run an errand.

The LaCie d2 SAFE Hard Drive can stand vertically to save desktop space, or be laid horizontally to stack multiple drives. It includes a secure chain lock port for attaching the LaCie d2 SAFE to a desk to prevent theft (chain available separately). A 3-setting switch allows for customized power management.

Availability
The LaCie d2 SAFE Hard Drive 500GB is available immediately via LaCie websites and widely available via LaCie's specialized dealer network later this month for $299. Drives ship with all cables necessary for immediate use, as well as 1-Click Backup Software for Windows/Mac. For more information, visit www.lacie.com.

About LaCie
LaCie creates external storage solutions and color monitors that help professionals and everyday users easily manage their digital lives. Powerful technology combined with unique designs by the internationally acclaimed Philippe Starck, Neil Poulton, Porsche Design GmbH, Ora-Ïto and Karim Rashid make LaCie the world leader in storage innovation. Established in France in 1989, LaCie is now headquartered in North America, Europe and Asia and listed on the Paris Nouveau Marché . For more information, visit www.lacie.com.