Although the CODi 40GB USB 2.0 Hard Drive's case is slightly larger than those of competing USB-powered drives, its capacity is at the smaller end of the spectrum. For systems that may not be able to provide sufficient USB power, or those that need to run through an unpowered hub, CODi includes a universal power supply with both U.S. and European plugs. It also includes an envelope-style padded vinyl case with enough room inside for the USB cable and the drive. We like the grabby little rubber feet, which keep the 5.5-by-3.0-by-0.75–inch drive in place on any desktop.

Installation under Win XP is effortless, but the CODi does not come with additional drivers for Windows 98 or backup software. We were able, however, to use Windows Backup to create a backup dataset and, of course, to drag and drop files to the drive.

The CODi drive was noticeably faster than the CMS or Transcend drives on our large directory test, but it essentially tied with the CMS as the slowest in moving large video files. Documentation is minimal: a single printed card the same size as the drive. And although the CODi drive has the same capacity as the smaller Transcend device, it costs significantly more. The vinyl case adds an ounce to its weight, but 7 ounces is still very manageable in your travel bag. Bottom line: This drive would be a better value if it included backup software and had a more compelling price per gigabyte.