Customer Reviews

Viking USB00512L2 512 MB USB 2.0 Portable Mini Flash Memory Device

5 star:		(11)
4 star:		(10)
3 star:		(4)
2 star:		(0)
1 star:		(4)

 

 

I am using the Viking 512 as a Computer Support Specialist configuring laptops (15-20 a day). I find it reliable and rugged. The price is reasonable.

I was disappointed to find that I could not plug this device into my laptop while I had anything else plugged into the other USB port immediately below it. If you have two USB ports side by side and want to be able to use them both, then this is probably not the flash device for you.

It's not great for a laptop with another USB slot being used right above/below it, but this one has lasted for the 2.5 months I've had it, and it is usually in my pocket on a daily basis. I try to be somewhat careful with it, but have had no problems, and make sure to use the remove hardware icon at work (Windows XP) and the right click > eject option at home (Windows 98SE). I think I had to download the driver for home, but that wasn't a big deal since I have internet at work.

It seems built to last, but I recommend being careful with any USB drive, since they aren't covered with styrofoam. My last one (Lexar) broke on the chip inside somehow, so I'm very satisfied with the Viking one(so far).

This product works as expected. It is a bit chunky in size, not slim and sleek like some competitors. A nice feature is that there is a loop on both the cap and the USB side so if you attach it to something you can choose either side. It does not come with a wrist strap or any accessories. The cap can snap on the back side of the base when it is inserted in a USB port. The corners on the plastic are very sharp and can nearly scratch or gouge you when you grab it. The USB connector seems a bit wiggly in its base since it moves if you wiggle it. Smacks of low quality construction. It seems harder to insert than many of my other USB devices. This connector seems to insert much more tightly (too tightly) relative to other USB connectors. And yet, the price of this for 512MB seems quite good these days so a buyer should consider what's important to you--price or quality. Works fine but don't expect beautiful and slick design nor top quality construction.

I have been completely satisfied with this product.

Functions fine. Top comes off and was lost within a month. A little bulky compared to peer 512 flash drives.

I've used the device for two months now, and it has worked well. It's VERY small, has a good feel to it, and it's solidly built.
However, there are some drawbacks to the Viking:
1. Its transfer speed is a lot less than USB 2.0, about 1 minute per 100 Mbs.
2. There is no lock/unlock switch, as in other devices, to prevent accidental deletes
3. The cap isn't attached to the device, so when you open it you have to keep track of it. I lost mine within two weeks of purchase.

Pretty good device. The plastic body may not be quite as sturdy as other USB keys, but it hasn't at all been an issue. Fits quite well on a key ring, and the one I got was made in Japan, so it should be fairly reliable.

This USB Flash Memory Drive works exactly as described, and I'm glad I bought it. I didn't give it 5 stars because its size makes it a little inconvenient to use. My laptop has two USB ports, one directly under the other. This device is big enough that it prevents connecting a second USB device to the other port at the same time. I've given up on the rebate. It's been nearly 5 months, and follow-ups have not helped.

I was looking for a flash memory of 512 mb and up with a great price. I got with it.