Reading flash drive without computer

[jussi]

A few years back I saw a device that would automatically read and copy all of the files from a flash drive. You had to supply your own hard drive. Basically an external hard drive (and about the same size) with a usb port to read data. Anyone know what it's called and where I can find one?

[LCHIEN]

try googling for flash drive duplicator

http://www.produplicator.com/dm-ily-usb03.html

[LinuxRandal]

The devices I am thinking of, are going to make you want a computer, since it will be cheaper to use them with an automatic script.

Forensic duplicator.

[newbie2wood]

http://www.cooldrives.com/usb-otg-adapter.html

I have not ordered from the website, but I think the item fits your description.

[trungdok]

The devices I am thinking of, are going to make you want a computer, since it will be cheaper to use them with an automatic script.

Forensic duplicator.

I agree. But I think this is for a niche situation, such as when you're travelling and want to transfer/back up your photos from the camera when you don't have access to a computer.

[Jim Bow]

wouldn"t it be easier to just buy multiple memory cards for the camera?

Not many cameras take a USB thumb drive.

[trungdok]

Certainly, at least for me it is. But, different stroke for different folks.

Most card readers are of USB based.

[RAV2]

A few years back I saw a device that would automatically read and copy all of the files from a flash drive. You had to supply your own hard drive. Basically an external hard drive (and about the same size) with a usb port to read data. Anyone know what it's called and where I can find one?

You can get a nice netbook for under $200 at Walmart and do a lot more tasks - including the one you wish to do.

This one is $178 and includes a 320Gb hard drive:

http://www.walmart.com/ip/Gateway-Ri...arter/21777756

I have MS Office on mine and use it as a ultra portable backup when needed.

[cwsmith]

There are any number of ways and devices that will allow a plug-in for the flash drive... but the problem is the software for the transfer.

Both of my cameras have mini-USB receptacles and both my laptop and my printer, as well as my Sony Dash will accept that USB connection and read the flash drive or the content of the camera. But without the necessary software, windows Explorer or whatever, you can't copy or move the files off the device. Neither camera offers "transfer" all by itself... as that software must reside on the mating device. And though that software could be put on a flashdrive, there is no interface there to activate it... thus the need for the laptop or other human-interface method.

CWS