Do you want a fool proof way to access your photos, videos and music on a range of devices? While OTG is great it does not work on all devices. This uses Wi-Fi to do the work so once the data is on the unit it can be accessed.
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The unit is chunky at 14.5x8.5x2cm and weights 250grams. Data can be attached or removed by USB and this device has both USB3 and USB2 ports. Charging of this solid battery powered unit is by a lead provided.
One moan that when charging there is an LED that shows red from empty till fully charged when it shows green, it would be nice to know something in between. There are three other LEDs on the face on, Wi-Fi working and Wi-Fi linking.
There is also a circular on/off button that needs to be pressed for three seconds. The left side has USB2 port which can be used to charge other external devices; the front has Charge socket, USB3 port and Wi-Fi link.
An App is available from the iOS or Android store so all your phones and tablets should work with the unit.
It seems not to want to link when cables are connected but as soon as it’s free of its tethers linking is a one-time entry of its SSID and encryption code into your device.
The unit sent to me was 1TB the actual free space was 931GB.
It comes with a seven language highly illustrated fold out ‘Quick Setup Guide’ sheet that should get you going on Android, iOS, PC or MAC. For more information input a URL given in the sheet to download a 32 page PDF guide for more detailed information. This includes AOSS and DLNA information.
So this is a device that means even a low capacity phone can access your music, photos and videos via the storage solution that can sit in your bag.
It can also be used as a charger for your phone or tablet.
While most recent devices will talk to each other often the simple task of transferring data is still not that easy. As stated earlier OTG devices are tiny and while in theory they work with the majority of devices this is by no means fool proof and while not having your music, video or photos while out and about might be an inconvenience not being able to access business documents could be far worse.
I tested this on a range of devices, the only type not tested were MACs as I do not have one and unless I win the lottery (I do not participate) this is unlikely to change.
For PCs or Notebooks with Wi-Fi they can access in this way, for those without then the supplied USB3 cable can transfer data even through USB2 ports.
I think the real use of this device will be with Android or iOS devices.
The interface is clear and easy to follow and has four main catogies down the left of the screen, Picture Viewer, Music Player, Video Player and File Explorer. Below this are the Settings that include Transfer History, Internet Connection, Auto Upload and Settings.
Once installed any user with limited knowledge should be able to play music, videos and view photos.
The Buffalo MiniStation Air HDW-PDU3 1TB is available from the link below for £129.55 including delivery.
http://www.amazon.co.uk/gp/product/B00KQCUWIM?ie=UTF8&tag=gadge0a-21&linkCode=as2&camp=1634
However they also have a special offer on the 500GB version at £69.99 with free delivery.
http://www.amazon.co.uk/gp/product/B009KZ31Y8?ie=UTF8&tag=gadge0a-21&linkCode=as2&camp=1634
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