In a very flash, new technology can adjust just how we capture, help save and discuss reminiscences and important info.

Consider the quick evolution from floppy diskettes, to CDs, to USB flash drives. We are now able to store and transfer gigabytes of details onto products the dimension of a thumb.

Even so, when sharing electronic content with colleagues or friends, sometimes we do not genuinely require significant capacities. According to a February 2006 study by ICR Market Research, about one-third of us reveal only a number of files at a time. Floppies don't have the ability to hold a five-megapixel digital photo, and floppy drives are rapidly becoming obsolete.

Flash drives are now 1 in the best methods to transfer files, but most are as well higher capacity-and as well expensive-to be presented absent. Recently, flash technology providers have started introducing reasonably priced, lower-capacity choix.

The freshly launched FlashDisc system is suitable for sharing data, photographs, organization presentations and even more amongst classmates, colleagues, friends and family. Pupils, for example, can discuss FlashDiscs inside the classroom although collaborating on staff assignments. Pros can use FlashDiscs to send out presentations to consumers.

Here's how a common FlashDisc, like ones offered by Memorex, review to other modes of transferring electronic content material:

• At 16MB, each FlashDisc features over 10 times the capability of a floppy, holding up to 400 text documents, 10 presentations or 40 digital photographs.

• Though they never hold as much details as CDs or DVDs, FlashDiscs do not require special hardware, software or expertise to use.

• FlashDiscs offer the same plug-and-play convenience as flash drives, but they cost a fraction of the price, making them a more appropriate option for sharing subject material when you will not want to give up your 2GB flash drive.

• Although sending e-mail attachments is a fast and easy way of exchanging files, many files are actually just as well big for being sent via e-mail, or, in some cases, attachments can be blocked by firewalls or other security settings.

"FlashDiscs can be used virtually anywhere and are durable enough to toss in a briefcase or backpack without the want for a protective case," said Scott Elrich, director of product management, personal storage gadgets, Memorex.

At 2.3 inches in diameter and a thickness of just 0.3 inches, the FlashDisc's thin, round design is durable and portable, like a floppy diskette. The gadget works with virtually any USB port on a PC or Mac. And like a floppy, FlashDisc includes adhesive write-on labels, something that you don't get with your common flash drive.