New PC Encryption Device Shipping from Norway

Not very often does storage and data protection news emanate from the neighborhood around the Arctic Circle, but it did today.

Norway-based High Density Devices said June 4 it is shipping a new adapter for SATA (serial ATA) hard drives that enables automatic encryption of stored data.

In fact, the adapter can be used with a range of storage devices, such as PCs and laptops (naturally), USB storage devices and even copy and fax machines — the latter two of which are getting some recent security scrutiny.

The SATA Adapter installs between the motherboard and the storage media (using standard interfaces), to provide for encryption of all data at rest, High Density Devices said. The company uses its own patented and certified encryption method, called Crypto Module, to handle the data security.

The SATA Adapter has the same form factor as a standard 2.5-inch hard drive and can be installed on the back of a drive. The SA is delivered either with a frontal smartcard reader or on the side (or both, if preferred) for ease of integration in USB enclosures or other devices.

SATA Adapter requires no additional software, operates transparently without the need for user intervention, encrypts data without affecting the system’s performance, and is operating system-independent, HDD said.

The encryptor is available in limited volume during June 2010 and in normal volume production during July 2010. The company is currently seeking distributors and resellers.

HDD will have a booth (TU710) at the Eurosatory 2010 Expo in Paris, June 14-18.