Nikon Coolpix 3500 3MP Digital Camera w/ 3x Optical Zoom

Amazon.com Review

Nikon's Coolpix 3500 follows up on the design of their 2500, featuring a swivel-out lens, complete with a 3x optical zoom, which closes up when not in use. The lens clicks into three different angles (straight out, 45-degrees above and below) when taking pictures, with the user lining up the shot in the bright and crisp 1.5-inch LCD.

The 3500 also has a built-in autoflash and can capture images at up to 3.2 megapixels. It does take a few moments to focus in on your subject, and the image quality isn't the best we've seen (we noticed some flares and dark shadows). But this camera was built more for portability than high-end imaging.

And it definitely hits--and fits--on that level. It weighs only six ounces, and the camera can easily slide into a jeans pocket or hang around your neck.

Several features geared toward the beginning user are included with the 3500. The one-touch upload option takes the thought out of transferring images to your PC. And with the Best Shot Selector option turned on, the 3500 will quickly capture up to 10 shots and choose the sharpest and brightest image. There's also a 20-minute introductory video on CD that walks novices through the digital camera basics.

A 16 MB CompactFlash card ships with the 3500, which will hold 19 images at the highest resolution. However, if you're going to use the camera's movie mode (it can hold passable 35-second soundless clips), you'll want to expand. Our one beef comes with the lithium-ion battery, which needs to be removed to be recharged.

The Nikon Coolpix 3500 would make a great gift for a parent or child new to the digital camera world. It's very user friendly and ultimately portable. --J. Curtis

Pros:

Nicely compact
Innovative twisting lens design
Excellent features for the beginner
Bright, crisp LCD

Cons:

Average image quality
Have to remove battery to recharge

Amazon.com Product Description

This elegant 3.2-megapixel digital camera features a unique inner-swivel design for free-angle shooting and an ergonomic design that puts every function within easy reach. Hold the camera in any position comfortable for you, then twist its 3x Nikkor zoom lens and built-in flash to get the best view. It also features a one-touch upload feature, which easily transfers your photos to your PC.

Optics and Resolution
Featuring a 3.2-megapixel CCD sensor, the Coolpix 3500 delivers a wide range of detail and color (with images up to 2,048 x 1,536 pixels) and prints are detailed up to 11 by 14 inches. Nikon's high-quality 3x Nikkor optical zoom lens (featuring a 5.6-16.8mm focal range, equivalent to 37-111mm in 35mm camera format) allows you to close in on the action. The 4x digital zoom offers a combined 12x total zoom, enabling you to capture even more details.

Body
Most striking is the Coolpix 3500's unique body design, which not only improves the appearance and ergonomics of the camera, but protects the lens when not in use. In addition to the novel swiveling lens barrel, the 3500 dispenses with a rangefinder and relies solely on the LCD monitor. The BriteView LCD enables you to view images easily and clearly even in bright sunlight.

More Features
The general-purpose auto mode, and 12 scene modes, makes getting great shots easy--even for beginning digital photographers. Just select the mode for the scene, and the Coolpix 3500 handles all the adjustments automatically. Nikon's Best Shot Selector takes a series of up to 10 images, compares them, and stores the image with most detail to the memory card.

The Coolpix 3500 makes sending images to your computer simple. Just connect the camera to a computer with the supplied USB cable and press the transfer button. Images in the camera are then transferred automatically to the computer with Nikon View 5 software (included). Pressing the small-picture button creates a reduced-size image for easy e-mailing.

Storage and Transfer
Images are stored on Type I CompactFlash memory cards. The included 16 MB card will store approximately 19 images at 2,048 x 1,536 pixels (at normal setting). Images can be downloaded to either a Mac or PC via USB storage-class connectivity, which means it can be connected to any USB-based Windows Me/2000/XP and Mac OS 8.6 or later computer without installing any software.

Movie Mode
In addition to taking still photos, the Coolpix 3500 can also record movie clips of up to 35 seconds without audio. The QuickTime Motion JPEG format offers a limited resolution, which is great for capturing a short movie that can be e-mailed to friends and family, but is no replacement for a true camcorder.

Power, Size, and Contents
The camera is powered by a proprietary, rechargeable lithium-ion battery (included). It measures 4.5 by 2.3 by 1.2 inches and weighs 6 ounces. This package includes the Coolpix 3500 digital camera, a 16 MB CompactFlash card, a lithium-ion battery (model EN-EL2), battery charger (model MH-60), USB and AV cables, strap, and a CD-ROM with Nikon View 5 imaging software, and USB drivers for Windows and Mac.

Customer Reviews:

EXCELLENT.......2007-09-10

This was my first digital camera. I have it for 6 years now. I got it for christmas in 2002. It still works perfectly. I have absolutely no problems with it. I have taken millions of pictures with this camera. As I am very into photography and took classes all throughout highschool as well as now in college. The only thing is that after taking soooo many pictures I did need to purchase a new battery. You must learn how to use a camera correctly before you give it negative feedback. My photographs, both indoor and outdoor got great compliments and prizes taken with this camera. Just this summer, I upgraded myself to a Canon REBEL XT.

for what it's priced at, you could get a BETTER camera.......2006-05-18

After my eldest brother had bought this camera somewhere from online, I snagged it from him [for almost 2 years now].
It's awesome for self-portraits instead of stupid "mirror shots"; because you can swivel it around so that it's focused on you&you can see yourself on the screen.

It worked fine before, but when it's not in use for maybe a second, the screen goes blank as if it's on a "sleep" mode. Then I have to turn it off and on again just to get it started back up.

It has a video mode, but it also takes up A LOT of memory&it doesn't record SOUND. The videos only end up to be maybe a second long. Also what videos I did have, I tried to upload them to my computer, however they will not play. So it basically was a waste of time and space on the memory card.

It accidently fell once and the cause of that made it not turn on. Or if it did, it would freeze the screen. [So I gave it back to my brother, but he miraculously fixed it, so I took it back again].
And then after a while, it started doing the same thing. So I let it sit out for a while, hadn't used it in maybe a month and it's just starting to work like normal again.

The latch to open the battery/memory card broke because it's so difficult to get the battery out [I had to take out the battery everytime when the screen froze].

Overall, this camera is not worth 300-400$ as originally paid. If you're willing to shell out that much, you could easily get a camera with more megapixels. If you're going to pay 100-200$ on a used one, I figure it's that cheap for a reason. It'll break/malfunction w/in 2 years.

This stuff isn't cheap folks, do some research for a GOOD QUALITY camera&then look for the best deals [online/other retailers, etc.]

Excellent.......2005-12-20

This 3.2 Megapixel camera has stood the test of time. Its unique design is a welcome change from the standard rectangle cameras that flood the market. Image quality is great, refresh speed is excellent, no lag whatsoever either from the flash or returning straight to the lcd after a photo is taken. This camera excedes my expectations and continues too when even compared side by side with the new batch of CoolPix cameras (4600 and 5600). If you can find one of these cameras second hand or in like-new condition I say jump at the opportunity.

Camera is Malfunctioning after 2 months! - Be Forewarned!.......2005-02-26

I purchased this camera two months ago. I was intrigued by the swivel lens feature after I had seen a friend using it. I discovered that I liked the camera for its size and weight even more so than the swivel lens, and I was enjoying using the camera and pleased with the performance for the most part. Yes, there is a red eye problem and the recovery time is fairly long for flash photos, but the camera takes relatively sharp photos overall. So in general I was pleased with the camera, and happy to have it as an alternative to my more bulky Olympus C-4000, which after several years is still fine. Now to the problem for which I am going to have to send this back to the retailer...In the last few weeks, I noticed that the LCD screen showed bright images with pinkish tinges and lines running through them. Yesterday while taking snow scenes and photographing snow on a lake through a window, I noticed that the camera could not produce an image at all. It simply came up with a big black void. If I focused the camera on a more shaded image outdoors, it did fine. It also still does fine with indoor photos with flash, but obviously the camera can't compensate for bright light in either the automatic or manual setting. I have had very good luck with all the products that I have purchased overall because I generally read all the reviews and then make a decision, so this is a major disappointment. I thought that I would enjoy taking self-photos of me and friends, but they really aren't that flattering (the angle just isn't right), so that became less of a selling feature with this camera. For a compact camera, there are a lot of really good features (automatic, manual, 3 X optical and and 4 X digital lens, continuous shooting, multiple scene choices such as fireworks,museum, close up, copy, party, snow - and many adjustable settings for exposure, photo quality,etc.) on this camera. I am hoping that this is a fluke, and my new or repaired camera will work for years to come, but if I were a consumer, I would be leery of purchasing this camera knowing what I now know, and also the fact that this camera is discontinued. If you're looking for a similar camera, you may wish to consider the Nikon SQ, but I can't speak for its performance other than to say that the body is constructed of metal and appears to be very solid. It has a partial swivel lens.
I am sending the camera back to the retailer today. It was their last one when I purchased it two months ago. It was an open box product, but it came with a full one year Nikon warranty and additional retailer warranty. I had to seek out the Coolpix 3500 on the Internet and ebay and I decided on this retailer. I am actually hoping that they will need to refund my money or replace the Coolpix 3500 with another model. The actual retail - if you can find this camera- is about 50% of the suggested retail, so it is fairly priced if it works.
I can't tell you how discouraging this is. I have had to review the manual to look at the troubleshooting section. In reviewing the manual, I realized how much I can do with this camera. I only tried out the continuous shooting mode yesterday, and now I have to return the camera! I don't wish this frustration on anyone.

This is great camera.......2004-09-23

This camera takes sharp and color saturated pictures. I had the chance to compare
with Nikon 5200 and Cannon G500, both 5megapix cameras. Neither took as good
a picture as this 3.2 megapix gem. Since I broke my 3500, (dropped it off a cliff) the process of looking for a replacement has been dissapointing. I tested the above cameras quite thoroughly. Took em both back and am buying on ebay another coolpix 3500.
I just highly recomend this camera for clear, sharp, & colorful photos...
JK Anchorage AK

Nikon Coolpix 3500 3MP Digital Camera w/ 3x Optical Zoom

Average customer rating:

Nikon Coolpix 3500 3MP Digital Camera w/ 3x Optical Zoom

Manufacturer: Nikon
ProductGroup: Photography
Binding: Electronics

Digital Cameras | Used Photo & Camera | Specialty Stores | Camera & Photo Features | Electronics

All Digital Cameras | Digital Cameras | Camera & Photo | Categories | Electronics

Under 4x Optical Zoom | Digital Cameras | Camera & Photo | Categories | Electronics

Point-and-Shoot Digital Cameras | Digital Cameras | Camera & Photo | Categories | Electronics

Nikon | Brands | Electronics Features | Electronics
Accessories:

ASIN: B00007FH5P

Product Description

Take the Nikon Coolpix 3500 out for a spin. This elegant digital camera features a unique inner-swivel design for free-angle shooting. Hold the camera in any position comfortable for you, and twist its 3x Zoom-Nikkor Lens and built-in flash to get the best view. Its 3.2 effective Megapixel CCD captures every image with stunning sharpness and brilliant color. The Coolpix 3500 is so stylish, compact and lightweight, it slips right into your pocket - but you won't want to keep it there. Its ergonomic design puts every function within easy reach. Take advantage of 12 Scene Modes to set the camera for any shooting situation at the touch of a key, a Quick Review and Small Picture button to view and save images for e-mailing, and One-Touch Upload to transfer your pictures to a computer with ease. The Coolpix 3500. Sure to turn some heads.

Average customer rating:

It is good for its price

This mouse works great!!

Wireless Mouse

Good wireless mouse, but ...

Great tool!

Microsoft M03-00045 Wireless Intellimouse Explorer with Tilt Wheel (Platinum)

Manufacturer: Microsoft
ProductGroup: CE
Binding: Electronics

Wireless Mice | Mice | Mice & Keyboards | Computer Add-Ons | Computers & Add-Ons | Categories | Electronics
Wheel Mice | Mice | Mice & Keyboards | Computer Add-Ons | Computers & Add-Ons | Categories | Electronics
Notebook Mice | Mice | Mice & Keyboards | Computer Add-Ons | Computers & Add-Ons | Categories | Electronics
Up to $50 | by Price | Gifts | Specialty Stores | Computers Features | Electronics
All Microsoft | Microsoft | Brands | Software
Game Hardware | Hardware | Microsoft | Brands | Software
Mice & Keyboards | Hardware | Microsoft | Brands | Software
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Microsoft Wireless Intellimouse Explorer with Tilt Wheel

Microsoft Wireless Optical Mouse - Steel Blue

Microsoft Intellimouse Explorer with Tilt-Wheel

Microsoft Wireless Laser Mouse 6000

Microsoft Digital Media Pro Keyboard

Accessories:

Microsoft Natural Keyboard Elite

Microsoft Internet Keyboard

Blue Gel Crystal Wrist Rest, Transparent

Logitech QuickCam Pro 4000

3M Multipurpose Gel Wrist Pad, Midnight Black

Product Features:

Features high-definition wireless laser wireless technology and tilt wheel for superb precision

Offers four-way scrolling for greater efficiency and comfort

Magnification feature lets you expand sections of your document

Unique stand-by mode saves battery power

Ergonomic design reduces problems associated with repetitive stress

ASIN: B0000AOWW9

Product Description

Discover two incredible advances in mouse technology! For the Wireless IntelliMouse Explorer, MICROSOFT has combined optical technology with radio frequency wireless technology to reach a new peak of performance and freedom -- in a design that feels as great as it looks. Forward & Back buttons let you manipulate your Web browser without having to click the toolbar All buttons can be reassigned to suit your needs USB & PS/2 PC & Mac - OS 8.6+, Win98+ 2 AA Batteries (not included) Five Year Warranty Color - Platinum Requires Windows 2000 or XP in PC mode

Amazon.com Product Description

Your mouse may be small enough to fit in the palm of your hand, but if you spend a lot of time on the computer, it can have a huge impact on your health and well-being. The Microsoft M03-00045 Wireless Intellimouse Explorer with Tilt Wheel is specially designed for comfort and accuracy, so that while you're working, you won't waste precious time, and when your workday is done, you'll feel as refreshed as when you began the day.

Get five times closer with The Magnifier.

Four-way scrolling with the Tilt Wheel.

Microsoft's design helps save batteries.

The Intellimouse is wireless, accurate, and comfortable to use. View larger.
Advanced Accuracy and Performance Features
Featuring high-definition laser technology, the Microsoft M03-00045 offers laser precision as you scroll through your files. Smoother tracking means less strain on your hands and wrists, and higher responsiveness means that you'll quickly notice an increase in your productivity. The mouse offers four-way scrolling with a tilt wheel that allows you to scroll up and down and side to side more smoothly, efficiently, and easily.

The entire scroll wheel tilts from side to side, acts as a button, and reacts to how quickly you roll the wheel to enable smooth, accurate maneuverability. For example, if you're working with a super-wide spreadsheet, you can tilt the wheel from side to side to scroll right and left, without having to click the sheet's tiny scroll arrows. And because the mouse relies on advanced optical technology, you can use it on nearly any surface without having to deal with the hassle of a clogged mouse wheel.

If you work with a lot of digital imagery, you'll love the mouse's magnification feature. With this feature, you'll think that you have a magnifying glass pressed against the screen. With a simple press-and-hold motion, the magnifier enlarges the area of your screen that fits inside the lens. You can easily adjust both the size of the lens and the level of its magnification. The Magnifier works in most programs. (The Magnifier is not compatible with Direct3D API in full-screen mode, media players, OpenGL, and Layered Windows. If you are using Mac OS X, the Magnifier enlarges text and images on the entire screen.) When it's time to touch up photos or fine-tune to some detailed tasks, the magnifier will quickly become your best friend.

The mouse also features advanced Microsoft technologies that help prolong the life of your batteries, which means that you can spend more time working and less time running back and forth to the store. The M03-00045 automatically enters standby mode when it's inactive for a certain length of time, which minimizes unnecessary battery drain. In addition, the light in the mouse's optical sensor illuminates only as brightly as is necessary to provide optimal tracking power. And finally, the mouse features a handy snap-in receiver that plugs in when you're ready to work, then snaps into your mouse when you travel, preserving battery life.

Of course, as its name implies, the Microsoft M03-00045 is wireless, which means you'll never have to hassle with cords again. An ambidextrous, ergonomic design that features a rubber-sided grip gives this mouse a cutting-edge look and feel that will complement today's latest technology. So if you work with a computer that runs Windows XP and has an available USB port, the Microsoft M03-00045 could be the mouse you've always wanted.

What's in the Box
Wireless laser mouse, receiver, 2 AA batteries, software CD-ROM, and user's manual.

Customer Reviews:

It is good for its price.......2007-09-13

I bought this mouse last year from amazon. Now, I am still using it. Even though it does not have "off" switch it consumes less batteries than some wireless mouse. I droped it a few times but it is still working fine (Durable). The bad aspect of this mouse is its receiver. Its receiver is pretty big (Some people might think that the receiver is the mouse). I like this mouse.

This mouse works great!!.......2007-07-11

This product does what it's supposed to do and it does it well! I have bought this for the office and my home.

Wireless Mouse.......2007-01-12

I love my wireless mouse that I received for my laptop. It works great! The batteries last pretty long too. I am very happy with the mouse that I chose.

Good wireless mouse, but ..........2007-01-10

the reason i give this mouse a 4 out of 5 is because of a simple little detail, INTERFEARANCE !!! dont get me wrong now, I've NEVER HELD A MORE CONFORTABLE MOUSE IN MY LIFE !!! but at work i placed the cordless reciver about 2' away from the mouse and reception from time to time was good. Ok could be that i use the mouse at work and at work there's a good deal of R/F walkie talkies (the black heavy ones) and on a constant baisis theres a high level of R/F interfearance. in order to resolve this issue i had to place reciver 10" away from the mouse. But if you purchase the mouse for home use (or if your office has no R/F interfearance nearby) the reception is EXCELLENT !!!! Very Good Mouse !!!

Great tool!.......2007-01-10

This mouse is up to the standard for the MS mice! Everything on it works as advertised. It has a L-O-N-G battery life due to the ability to standby when it's not in use. I especially like the lack of a cord -- less clutter on the desk. The one downside observation I have is the big clunky receiver that plugs into the USB port. You have to find a place to store it. That's a small price to pay for the ease of use and convenience.

Product Description

Durable All-metal Construction. Easy To Use Design. Allows Any Spotting Scope, Camera Or Tripod-adaptable Binocular To Be Mounted On A Car Or Truck Window.

Vanguard Guardforce 3-in-1 Detachable Window Mount Kit for Cameras, Binoculars, Scopes & More

Average customer rating:

Vanguard Guardforce 3-in-1 Detachable Window Mount Kit for Cameras, Binoculars, Scopes & More

Manufacturer: VANGUARD
ProductGroup: Photography

Vanguard | Camera & Photo Brands | Camera & Photo Features | Electronics

Rugged plastic 2-way panhead with window mount
Includes window mount, camera panhead, binocular adapter, and gun mount
Ideal for cameras, binoculars, and spotting scopes
Camera panhead allows for horizontal and vertical panning
Ultra lightweight design for easy mounting

ASIN: B000HI1PY0

Product Description

Unique to the sporting good industry is the brand new Vanguard Guardforce 3 in 1 window mount kit. This is the ideal accessory to have while traveling in your car or truck because it includes everything you need for your camera, binoculars, and more. If you're only looking for the ideal window mount and panhead, then this window mount set should be your choice. Don't miss that perfect view; carry a Guardforce window mount with you all the time!

Nikon Team Realtree Binocular Window Mount

Average customer rating:

Nikon Team Realtree Binocular Window Mount

Manufacturer: Nikon
ProductGroup: Photography
Binding: Electronics

Binoculars | Used Photo & Camera | Specialty Stores | Camera & Photo Features | Electronics

Nikon | Brands | Electronics Features | Electronics

Other Hunting Equipment | Hunting | Categories | Sports & Outdoors

Product Features:

Made By: Nikon
Model Number: 7071
Tripods, Adapters Mounting
Window Mount Realtree Hardwood

ASIN: B0007M6GPY

Product Description

Nikon Window Mount is for use with all spotting scopes, cameras and other tripod adaptable accessories. Pivoting head allows full range of motion. Padded clamp firmly attaches to any car or truck window for a steady viewing platform. -For spotting scopes, binoculars, and cameras -Sturdy, rugged construction for stability and lasting durability -Quickly secures to car or truck window with padded clamp -Smooth pivot and tilt adjustments permit viewing at any angle Camo Finish

Average customer rating:

BINOCULAR, WINDOW MOUNT REALTREE

Manufacturer: NIKON SPORTS AND RECREATIONAL OPTICS
ProductGroup: CE

Top Quality Sports Equipment
Enjoy your time outdoors.
Satisfaction Ensured.

ASIN: B000GGQ7Y6

Product Description

Enjoy equipment that has been made with the sports enthusiast in mind. This item has been manufactured to the highest standards. This item: BINOCULAR, WINDOW MOUNT REALTREE

Average customer rating:

BINOCULAR, WINDOW MOUNT, BLACK

Manufacturer: NIKON SPORTS AND RECREATIONAL OPTICS
ProductGroup: CE

BINOCULAR, WINDOW MOUNT, BLACK

ASIN: B000K5Y6MI

Product Description

NULL

Nikon Fieldscope III Outfit with Case and Tripod and Window Mount

Average customer rating:

Nikon Fieldscope III Outfit with Case and Tripod and Window Mount

Manufacturer: Nikon
ProductGroup: Photography
Binding: Electronics

Binoculars | Used Photo & Camera | Specialty Stores | Camera & Photo Features | Electronics

Spotting Scopes | Optics | Camera & Photo | Categories | Electronics

Nikon | Brands | Electronics Features | Electronics
Accessories:

ASIN: B00005LEN2
Release Date: 2002-09-02

Product Description

The Fieldscope III is waterproof and fog-free with O-ring seals and nitrogen gas. All lenses and prisms are multilayer coated for the brightest images.PRODUCT FEATURES: Built-in type slide hood; Angled body type for easy viewing and comfortable sketching; Extra-low dispersion (ED) glass for color aberration compensation and brighter, clearer viewing; Eight different eyepieces compatible.

Average customer rating:

Perfect Secondary/Backup Hard Drive for Laptops

Works fine for me

Buy a Fire Wire instead

Buy the new 160GB 5000DV!

An excellent device but with restrictions...

Maxtor Personal Storage 5000DV - Hard drive - 120 GB - external - FireWire / Hi-Speed USB - 7200 rpm - buffer: 2 MB

Manufacturer: Maxtor
ProductGroup: CE
Binding: Electronics

External Hard Drives | Hard Drives | Drives & Storage | Computer Add-Ons | Computers & Add-Ons | Categories | Electronics | FireWire | USB 1.1 | USB 2.0
ASIN: B00006SKL3

Product Description

The Maxtor external hard drive makes it easy to add blazing fast storage specially designed for your unique creative requirements. With large storage capacities, you'll have plenty of workspace for all your large projects, including over nine hours of digital video. The Maxtor 7200-RPM hard drive plus both FireWire (IEEE 1394, i.LINK) and USB 2.0 interface ports give you one of the most versatile drives available for your Mac and PC.

Amazon.com Product Description

The Maxtor external hard drive makes it easy to add fast storage specially designed for your unique creative requirements. With a storage capacity of 120 GB, you'll have plenty of workspace for all your large projects, including more than nine hours of digital video. This Maxtor 7,200 RPM hot-swappable hard drive features FireWire and USB 2.0 interface ports giving you one of the most versatile drives available for your Mac and PC.

Plus, you can easily back up your system using the Maxtor OneTouch system. Make backup copies of your files, while you work, with a simple push of a button. You can also run automated, unattended backups with Dantz Retrospect Express software, included with the drive. The compact drive design lets you set it vertically or horizontally.

Customer Reviews:

Perfect Secondary/Backup Hard Drive for Laptops.......2004-04-30

I have been using Maxtor external hard drives for just over a year now and have made recommendations to family and colleagues which have resulted in them buying many of them as well. So with experience with close to a dozen hard drives, we have not had any problems and have nothing but praise for the drives.

First off, with internal hard drive prices for laptops so expensive and so difficult to install, external hard drives that use firewire (IEEE1394) are a great option. These hard drives use both firewire and USB, so you can take the information and hot swap it among multiple computer (like a thumb drive) or keep it plugged in to a single computer for use a secondary hard drive. I have found virtually no speed difference between accessing files on the external hard drive versus the internal.

The automatic backup feature, makes the hard drive all that much more useful. It comes bundled with Dantz Retrospect Express program which is an easy-to-use option for automatically backing up just what you want with a touch of a button. I backup often, usually just punching the button as I go meet to clients. It usually finishes the automated process by the time I return. Because backing up is so easy to do, when I did lose the hard drive on one of my laptops, I barely missed a beat after I got it replaced, simply restoring the drive image to make my new laptop look just like my old one.

I highly recommend Maxtor external hard drives.

Works fine for me.......2004-04-27

I have had this for about 3 months now with no problem (knock on wood). I use the sony iLink connection (Sony's Firewire) and can record television to it and play back from it at the same time with no problem (3.35 GB per hour quality level).

I have not noticed any extra noise from it and find the one touch backup functionality convienient for internal drive backup.

Buy a Fire Wire instead.......2003-09-20

I wonder how many people who write these reviews still feel the same after a few months. Initially was THRILLED with a fast- portable hard drive to use as an archive for home and office....until it started filling up...so to speak.
with only about 9gb on the disk, it makes starting up Windows about a 10-12 minute wait while it "scans" all the data on the Maxtor. Once opened, the transfer/access rate is like working on an old 386 machine... and it's 10 times worse with a USB 1.1 connection!

I thought for CERTAIN that the problem was me. I defragged, rebooted, deleted half the files..... no luck.

Stay with a fire wire, especially if you are replaying any music or video. Can't imagine someone using this thing to do a presentation.

Mine is now a pretty paper weight.

Buy the new 160GB 5000DV!.......2003-04-17

This one is an obsolete from Maxtor.
It has only 2MB buffer memory.
Don't buy it!
Buy the new 160GB 5000DV with 8MB buffer memory!

An excellent device but with restrictions..........2003-02-27

The Maxtor 5000DV 120MB external hard drive was very easy to install on my laptop using a USB 2.0 ADAPTEC CardBus adapter AUA-1420 (PCMCIA). Once the drivers were installed on my laptop, after making sure I had the last version from the Maxtor Web site, it was a matter of physically connecting the cable and going.
The disk drive comes pre-formatted from the factory with a single volume in a huge extended partition using FAT32. Since I am using Windows XP, I reformatted the disk with 2 primary partitions and a multi-volume extended partition using NTFS. This reformat process was easily accomplished with Windows XP Computer Management/Disk Management standard features. For more details see Control Panel®
Administrative Tools®Computer Management®Disk Management® Help®use the word "partition" as a search word.
I was planning on using the Maxtor disk drive to store large volume of application data as well as to store a drive image of the internal primary hard drive(C:) from which the operating system XP is running. Using the Maxtor disk drive to store and retrieve data is a smooth and very quiet working environment, which seems to me as fast as the internal disk drive, although I did not benchmark it.
The restrictions became apparent while attempting to create a drive image of internal primary hard drive C:. The restrictions are Windows related, but nevertheless curtail the use of the Maxtor disk drive. Here is what I later found from the Maxtor Knowledge Base under External Drives:

a) Maxtor does not supply or support applications used to create a backup or mirror image of your internal hard drive to an external personal storage device. Microsoft offer limited support for copying the operating system from one hard disk to another within the same computer. Maxtor's 1394 and USB 2 personal storage devices are intended to copy files and applications.

b) It is not possible to boot to any Windows operating systems from any USB or 1394 external drive unit. The only bootable devices that can be configured from the BIOS are SCSI, IDE, Floppy or CD-ROM.

c) Currently there are no DOS drivers for USB or 1394 devices. USB or 1394 devices will not function under DOS because this technology can only operate in a "Plug-and-Play" operating systems environment. Backup software that creates images, such as Norton Ghost or PowerQuest Drive Image, requires that a device is able to function under MS-DOS. USB and 1394 drives will not function under MS-DOS because there are no MS-DOS drivers.

So, if you are planning to create operating system drive images, you will need to run your image software from a second copy of your operating system installed in a different partition on your internal primary disk. This way you will be able to run your drive image software in normal Windows mode from the second partition and your primary partition will be considered data with all files closed. The workaround used by the above mentioned image software to make sure all files are closed before creating the drive image is to re-boot your system and execute in boot-mode(MS-DOS). The image software gives you the option to run in normal Windows mode if the image source is from a different partition from which it is running.

You will be facing the same problem if you attempt to install a second copy of your operating system on the Maxtor disk drive. In my case, Windows XP Setup Program could not complete the installation task since it also runs in MS-DOS.

Dantz Retrospect Express software is included with the Maxtor disk drive. I had to spend more than an hour reading and browsing through the 275-page+ manual before I had the feeling of making an intelligent use of the product. Retrospect appears to be a comprehensive backup environment with an easy user interface. My usage of the product is too limited to offer a serious evaluation.

Electronics:

Electronics

Electronics