Lexar Launches ExpressCard™ SSD with Auto-Backup Software – Next-Generation Solution for Notebook Modular Expansion

<p><i>Super-compact solution sets new standard for high-performance, low-cost PC expansion and data backup</i></p>
<p>Lexar Media, Inc., a world leader in advanced digital media technologies, today announced the introduction of its new ExpressCard™ SSD with auto-backup software.</p>
<p>Roughly half the size of current PC Card solutions, the Lexar ExpressCard SSD is a high-capacity removable solid state drive (SSD) that promises to set a new standard for delivering high-performance, lower-cost modular expansion to notebook computers. The Lexar ExpressCard SSD comes bundled with auto-backup software, an innovative solution for protecting laptop computer files and data that allows for automatic regular (daily, weekly, or monthly) backup without user intervention after the initial setup. During this setup, the user will be able to set the folder and specific file types to be included or excluded from the backup process. In addition, this automatic backup software can also support multiple computers by recognising the computer name and the appropriate backup setting for each computer.</p>
<p>The Lexar ExpressCard SSD is also ideal for use with Windows® Vista™ as it is enhanced for use with ReadyBoost™, a Vista feature that improves system performance without having to add DRAM to computers. The ExpressCard SSD serves as an additional memory cache, which is a reserve section of memory that the computer can access faster than if it were accessing data from the hard disk drive. Additionally, the ExpressCard SSD interface supports a direct connection to the chipset, allowing users to enjoy all of its extensive backup and ReadyBoost capabilities without having to unplug the card after every use – users simply keep their ExpressCard SSD in the slot as external storage.</p>
<p>Farshid Tabrizi, General Manager, USB Products noted: “The ExpressCard standard is the ideal form factor for leveraging PC card technology and providing notebook users with a simple, more reliable way to significantly boost system performance. With auto-backup software, the Lexar ExpressCard SSD will be especially appealing for traveling business people, small- and home-office owners, and anyone who wants a secure, hassle-free way to backup important documents and literally add more storage to their laptop. The Lexar ExpressCard SSD also does away with the external cables necessary for external HDDs or the awkwardness of UFDs sticking out of your laptop. We believe ExpressCard technology clearly represents the new generation for plug-in cards and is destined to replace current PC Card technology. In fact, many new laptops are already shipping with dedicated ExpressCard slots, including Dell, Fujitsu, Fujitsu Siemens, HP, Intel, Lenovo, LG Electronics, Microsoft, Sony, Texas Instruments, and Toshiba.”</p>
<p>“The ExpressCard delivers higher levels of performance and functionality to laptops. Lexar is a member of PCMCIA (Personal Computer Memory Card International Association) which created the ExpressCard Standard, and one of the first to introduce ExpressCard SSD to the market. It is a good example of how we are driving technical development of the next-generation storage and backup solution for personal computers,” said Mathew Luu, Marketing Manager of Lexar Media ANZ &amp; South Asia.</p>
<p><b>Availability and Pricing</b></p>
<p>Lexar ExpressCard SSD is now available from Officeworks, Myer, Harvey Norman and other major retailers in Australia in 4GB, 8GB, and 16GB capacities. The suggested retail price for 4GB capacity is $199.95, 8GB is $329.95, and 16GB is $549.95 (all including GST).</p>
<p><b>About Lexar</b></p>
<p>Lexar, a subsidiary of Micron Technology, Inc., is a leading marketer and manufacturer of NAND flash memory products including memory cards, USB flash drives, card readers, and ATA controller technology for the digital photography, consumer electronics, industrial, and communications markets. Lexar also sells memory cards under the Kodak brand.</p>
<p><b>About Micron Technology</b></p>
<p>Micron Technology, Inc., is one of the world's leading providers of advanced semiconductor solutions. Through its worldwide operations, Micron manufactures and markets DRAMs, NAND flash memory, CMOS image sensors, other semiconductor components, and memory modules for use in leading-edge computing, consumer, networking, and mobile products. Micron's common stock is traded on the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE) under the MU symbol. To learn more about Micron Technology, Inc., visit www.micron.com.</p>
<p><b>For more information contact:</b></p>
<p>Jessie Jin</p>
<p>Kinetics PR</p>
<p>T: (02)9212-3848</p>
<p>E: jessie@kinetics.com.au</p>

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