Buffalo releases the SSD-PSMU3, a mini external SSD

Buffalo has launched a new line of miniature external SSDs, the smallest the company has ever released. Designed to resist damage caused by drops, the SSD-PSMU3 looks more like an USB pen drive than an external SSD.

Measuring just 33×9.5×59.5mm and weighing 15 grams, the SSD-PSMU3 is MIL-STD compliant. This means that this device has passed the MIL-STD-810G 516.6 procedure IV, which ensures that the data stored in the device is protected from damage caused by drops and vibrations from moving. This testing consisted of verifying if five SSD-PSMU3 models were still operational after 26 drop tests, from different angles and at a height of 122cm. To pass the test, at least one out of the five devices must be functioning.

There are four capacity options for the new SSD-PSMU3: 120GB, 240GB, 480GB, and 960GB. The SSD-PSMU3 is connected to its host through a USB 3.2 Gen 1 Micro-B interface. A 30cm Micro-B to USB Type-A cable comes included, but there's also a USB Type- A to USB Type-C adapter, expanding the supported connectivity options. Buffalo claims a maximum throughput of 430 MB/s, but according to Anandtech, it should be closer to “400 MB/s due to overhead incurred by 8b/10b encoding”.

This miniature external SSD supports Buffalo’s SecureLock Mobile2, capable of encoding data using an AES-256 key, through software. Additionally, it also supports SMART function and Mimamori Signal software, which can be used to monitor the health status of the SSD.

The SSD-PSMU3 is available in three colours: blue, pink, and white. Currently available in Japan, the 120GB model costs ¥5,700 (£42.50) plus taxes, and the 960GB model costs ¥22,300 (£160.20) plus taxes. If you want to learn more about this SSD, you can visit the product page (in Japanese).

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