Any Advice please! at DVinfo.net

Vincent Oliver · October 25th, 2009, 04:17 AM

I have a 14 day assignment in Kenya coming up and need to travel light. I want to transfer/backup files from my SXS and SDHC cards to a portable drive, but do not want to take a laptop with me. (my 17" screen HP Pavilion is far too big)

Can anyone recommend a good portable drive that will allow data transfers either directly from the camera or via a USB card reader. I have an Epson P5000 portable viewer (80gb) which does work, but it's very slow.

Thank you

Paul Inglis · October 25th, 2009, 05:58 AM

I had the same problem a while ago and looked for a decent device to off-load footage and create a back-up in a compact set-up.

I ended up with this small Asus N10JH-HV006E Netbook PC. It has an Express Card Slot that allows you to download the SxS Pro Memory Cards. I also has a built-in SD/SDHC Card Reader (Great if you are using the MxR Adaptor). If you are using the nanoFlash then purchase the Delkin ExpressCard 34 CF Adaptor for downloading the CF Memory Cards.

I have Clip Browser and Vegas Pro Loaded for checking footage. This mini laptop has a graphics card if you use a different NLE. I like to transfer using Clip Browser with 'CRC Check' to three external Hard Drives (Back-Up the Back-Up of the Back Up). I am finding the LaCie Rugged
250GB Hard Drive reliable and cost effective.

I know it isn’t as portable as the Epson P-5000 but IMO if far more practical and versatile, not to mention cost effective in the long run.

Hope it helps a bit.

Alister Chapman · October 25th, 2009, 09:12 AM

Sounds like one of the Nexto boxes would work well for you.

Nexto DI - Next Generation Storage with Digital Interface

The NVS-2500 can even playback footage on it's integral screen, the 2725 is a more basic model but fully supports backup from SxS.

Paul Inglis · October 25th, 2009, 10:17 AM

Now that’s versatility in a small package! How much are they?

Nathan Hudson · October 25th, 2009, 11:59 AM

couldn't find to buy in the states the mentioned netbook but the white lenovo ideapad is selling for 300 dollars on amazon and has an expresscard slot and features an atom processor to compensate for smaller battery. 3-4 hours reviewed battery on wide open screen brightness wifi and bluetooth on, streaming lots of videos. Closing all that down to just dump footage surely will get you lots of life. I'm heavily considering it. It's the only netbook with expresscard slot i could find here in the states unless someone else knows of a better one.

Paul Inglis · October 25th, 2009, 12:25 PM

Quote:

couldn't find to buy in the states the mentioned netbook but the white lenovo ideapad is selling for 300 dollars on amazon and has an expresscard slot and features an atom processor to compensate for smaller battery. 3-4 hours reviewed battery on wide open screen brightness wifi and bluetooth on, streaming lots of videos. Closing all that down to just dump footage surely will get you lots of life. I'm heavily considering it. It's the only netbook with expresscard slot i could find here in the states unless someone else knows of a better one.

List of Asus Suppliers in the USA

Hope that helps!

Alister Chapman · October 25th, 2009, 12:43 PM

The Fujitsu Amilo 3520 has an express card slot and 60gb hard drive.
AMILO Mini Ui 3520 - Small & light mini-notebook, colorful clip-on covers - Fujitsu

I have one of these running OS-X. Picked it up on ebay brand new for £90. Works great.

Nathan Hudson · October 25th, 2009, 11:57 PM

Sorry, wasn't really clear there, I think it's that they sell certain models, in the states and then certain models across the pond. That particular model not included in the states. I may be wrong though as I haven't fully researched it. When looking I ran across this lenovo which is pretty freakin awesome though on specs.

Amazon.com: Lenovo Ideapad S10-1311UW 10.2-Inch White Netbook: Computer & Accessories

Alister Chapman · October 26th, 2009, 02:13 AM

I would still go with the Nexto box over a laptop. One step backups, no need for USB drives and cables, much simpler.

Vincent Oliver · October 26th, 2009, 02:53 AM

Thank you all for the suggestions, the Nexto does seem to be the best option.

I was also worried about putting my EX3 into the hold of the aircraft, as my Kata CC197 bag is too big for the cabin. After much experimenting I can make the camera fit into a Kata CC193 bag, this size is OK for the cabin. Just remove all the partition walls and the camera will fit, its not ideal but I would rather handle my gear that see it thrown onto a conveyor belt.

Paul Inglis · October 26th, 2009, 04:57 AM

Quote:

I would rather handle my gear that see it thrown onto a conveyor belt.

Totally agree!

Quote:

the Nexto does seem to be the best option.

I'm thinking of a couple for myself!

Enjoy your trip Vincent!

Nathan Hudson · October 26th, 2009, 08:27 AM

Ok, I'm now interested in the Nexto.

However, some notes, after researching, if you want one that truly supports sxs cards, your options shoot into the thousands. The only ones with an actual expresscard port in the unit that is. Of course that one actually allows you to preview the clips which is nice.

Nexto DI | Nexto Video Pro Storage Device (320GB) | NVS2500320

The only one that says it supports sxs on the cheaper end are the black models which require the sony reader which you need to plug into the wall which defeats the purpose here are the links to that model and the sony adapter for pricing ideas....

Nexto DI | Nexto Video Storage Device (160GB) | NESV-ND27251654

SBAC-US10

HOWEVER, I'm wondering if I have a usb cable hooked up to the cheapest models, which mentions nothing of SxS support, and keep it in my backpack and rip the footage by hooking it up to the camera through the USB port and rip whatever inactive card down while rolling then verify its on the drive and then format the card without ever removing the cards. Could it work? I might take the dive and get this to see if it does. Check this out....granted I'm trying to find something cheaper than the 160GB Netbook I mentioned above from Lenovo which has an expresscard slot. So what do yall think will the following work?

Nexto DI | Nexto eXtreme (160GB) | NESE-ND270160G | B&H Photo

-Nate

Nathan Hudson · October 26th, 2009, 08:46 AM

To answer my question, I went to their own site....duh, should have done that from the get go.

YES you can backup from anything you can hook up to its USB port. As listed here on their site.

Nexto DI - Next Generation Storage with Digital Interface

This will be perfect as I can also offload photos from my DSLR through the Compact Flash port.

I'll report back after I order one and get it in. I may call in just to be on the safe side to verify there aren't any issues.

Nathan Hudson · October 26th, 2009, 09:53 AM

now that i kept digging i'm back to questioning it.

It appears that even if you get the more expensive black version which officially supports it and you only do this through USB instead of the extra adapter, it only supports port A in your EX which isn't acceptable. So if that's all you get out of the more expensive unit, then who knows what the cheaper extreme unit will do.

reading info.

Nexto DI - Next Generation Storage with Digital Interface

Doug Jensen · October 26th, 2009, 11:18 AM

You might just want to wait a few more weeks and get a PXU-MS240 when they start shipping.

PXU-MS240 Mobile Storage Unit From Sony

October 25th, 2009, 04:17 AM	#1
Vincent Oliver Trustee Join Date: Sep 2004 Location: Chislehurst, London Posts: 1,724	Any Advice please! I have a 14 day assignment in Kenya coming up and need to travel light. I want to transfer/backup files from my SXS and SDHC cards to a portable drive, but do not want to take a laptop with me. (my 17" screen HP Pavilion is far too big) Can anyone recommend a good portable drive that will allow data transfers either directly from the camera or via a USB card reader. I have an Epson P5000 portable viewer (80gb) which does work, but it's very slow. Thank you __________________ Eyes are a deaf man’s ears. Ears are a blind man’s eyes

October 25th, 2009, 09:12 AM	#3
Alister Chapman Inner Circle Join Date: Dec 2005 Location: Bracknell, Berkshire, UK Posts: 4,957	Sounds like one of the Nexto boxes would work well for you. Nexto DI - Next Generation Storage with Digital Interface The NVS-2500 can even playback footage on it's integral screen, the 2725 is a more basic model but fully supports backup from SxS. __________________ Alister Chapman, Film-Maker/Stormchaser http://www.xdcam-user.com/alisters-blog/ My XDCAM site and blog. http://www.hurricane-rig.com

October 25th, 2009, 12:43 PM	#7
Alister Chapman Inner Circle Join Date: Dec 2005 Location: Bracknell, Berkshire, UK Posts: 4,957	The Fujitsu Amilo 3520 has an express card slot and 60gb hard drive. AMILO Mini Ui 3520 - Small & light mini-notebook, colorful clip-on covers - Fujitsu I have one of these running OS-X. Picked it up on ebay brand new for £90. Works great. __________________ Alister Chapman, Film-Maker/Stormchaser http://www.xdcam-user.com/alisters-blog/ My XDCAM site and blog. http://www.hurricane-rig.com

October 26th, 2009, 02:13 AM	#9
Alister Chapman Inner Circle Join Date: Dec 2005 Location: Bracknell, Berkshire, UK Posts: 4,957	I would still go with the Nexto box over a laptop. One step backups, no need for USB drives and cables, much simpler. __________________ Alister Chapman, Film-Maker/Stormchaser http://www.xdcam-user.com/alisters-blog/ My XDCAM site and blog. http://www.hurricane-rig.com

October 26th, 2009, 02:53 AM	#10
Vincent Oliver Trustee Join Date: Sep 2004 Location: Chislehurst, London Posts: 1,724	Thank you all for the suggestions, the Nexto does seem to be the best option. I was also worried about putting my EX3 into the hold of the aircraft, as my Kata CC197 bag is too big for the cabin. After much experimenting I can make the camera fit into a Kata CC193 bag, this size is OK for the cabin. Just remove all the partition walls and the camera will fit, its not ideal but I would rather handle my gear that see it thrown onto a conveyor belt. __________________ Eyes are a deaf man’s ears. Ears are a blind man’s eyes

October 25th, 2009, 05:58 AM	#2
Paul Inglis Major Player Join Date: Dec 2008 Location: British Isles Posts: 415	I had the same problem a while ago and looked for a decent device to off-load footage and create a back-up in a compact set-up. I ended up with this small Asus N10JH-HV006E Netbook PC. It has an Express Card Slot that allows you to download the SxS Pro Memory Cards. I also has a built-in SD/SDHC Card Reader (Great if you are using the MxR Adaptor). If you are using the nanoFlash then purchase the Delkin ExpressCard 34 CF Adaptor for downloading the CF Memory Cards. I have Clip Browser and Vegas Pro Loaded for checking footage. This mini laptop has a graphics card if you use a different NLE. I like to transfer using Clip Browser with 'CRC Check' to three external Hard Drives (Back-Up the Back-Up of the Back Up). I am finding the LaCie Rugged 250GB Hard Drive reliable and cost effective. I know it isn’t as portable as the Epson P-5000 but IMO if far more practical and versatile, not to mention cost effective in the long run. Hope it helps a bit.

October 25th, 2009, 10:17 AM	#4
Paul Inglis Major Player Join Date: Dec 2008 Location: British Isles Posts: 415	Now that’s versatility in a small package! How much are they?

October 25th, 2009, 11:59 AM	#5
Nathan Hudson Regular Crew Join Date: Aug 2009 Location: Winter Park, FL Posts: 55	couldn't find to buy in the states the mentioned netbook but the white lenovo ideapad is selling for 300 dollars on amazon and has an expresscard slot and features an atom processor to compensate for smaller battery. 3-4 hours reviewed battery on wide open screen brightness wifi and bluetooth on, streaming lots of videos. Closing all that down to just dump footage surely will get you lots of life. I'm heavily considering it. It's the only netbook with expresscard slot i could find here in the states unless someone else knows of a better one.

October 25th, 2009, 11:57 PM	#8
Nathan Hudson Regular Crew Join Date: Aug 2009 Location: Winter Park, FL Posts: 55	Sorry, wasn't really clear there, I think it's that they sell certain models, in the states and then certain models across the pond. That particular model not included in the states. I may be wrong though as I haven't fully researched it. When looking I ran across this lenovo which is pretty freakin awesome though on specs. Amazon.com: Lenovo Ideapad S10-1311UW 10.2-Inch White Netbook: Computer & Accessories

October 26th, 2009, 08:27 AM	#12
Nathan Hudson Regular Crew Join Date: Aug 2009 Location: Winter Park, FL Posts: 55	Ok, I'm now interested in the Nexto. However, some notes, after researching, if you want one that truly supports sxs cards, your options shoot into the thousands. The only ones with an actual expresscard port in the unit that is. Of course that one actually allows you to preview the clips which is nice. Nexto DI \| Nexto Video Pro Storage Device (320GB) \| NVS2500320 The only one that says it supports sxs on the cheaper end are the black models which require the sony reader which you need to plug into the wall which defeats the purpose here are the links to that model and the sony adapter for pricing ideas.... Nexto DI \| Nexto Video Storage Device (160GB) \| NESV-ND27251654 SBAC-US10 HOWEVER, I'm wondering if I have a usb cable hooked up to the cheapest models, which mentions nothing of SxS support, and keep it in my backpack and rip the footage by hooking it up to the camera through the USB port and rip whatever inactive card down while rolling then verify its on the drive and then format the card without ever removing the cards. Could it work? I might take the dive and get this to see if it does. Check this out....granted I'm trying to find something cheaper than the 160GB Netbook I mentioned above from Lenovo which has an expresscard slot. So what do yall think will the following work? Nexto DI \| Nexto eXtreme (160GB) \| NESE-ND270160G \| B&H Photo -Nate

October 26th, 2009, 08:46 AM	#13
Nathan Hudson Regular Crew Join Date: Aug 2009 Location: Winter Park, FL Posts: 55	To answer my question, I went to their own site....duh, should have done that from the get go. YES you can backup from anything you can hook up to its USB port. As listed here on their site. Nexto DI - Next Generation Storage with Digital Interface This will be perfect as I can also offload photos from my DSLR through the Compact Flash port. I'll report back after I order one and get it in. I may call in just to be on the safe side to verify there aren't any issues.

October 26th, 2009, 09:53 AM	#14
Nathan Hudson Regular Crew Join Date: Aug 2009 Location: Winter Park, FL Posts: 55	now that i kept digging i'm back to questioning it. It appears that even if you get the more expensive black version which officially supports it and you only do this through USB instead of the extra adapter, it only supports port A in your EX which isn't acceptable. So if that's all you get out of the more expensive unit, then who knows what the cheaper extreme unit will do. reading info. Nexto DI - Next Generation Storage with Digital Interface

October 26th, 2009, 11:18 AM	#15
Doug Jensen Vortex Media Join Date: Jan 2009 Location: Florida Posts: 3,442	You might just want to wait a few more weeks and get a PXU-MS240 when they start shipping. PXU-MS240 Mobile Storage Unit From Sony __________________ Vortex Media http://www.vortexmedia.com/ Sony FS7, F55, and XDCAM training videos, field guides, and other production tools