The Western Digital Passport (160GB) ($179.99 direct), the latest in the company's Passport series of portable hard drives, comes in a higher capacity than earlier models and with a new "piano black" exterior. It's a good companion to your notebook (particularly dark ones such as the Lenovo ThinkPad and the Apple MacBook in black), as well as a data-toting device for someone who needs to take work home but doesn't want to carry a notebook every day.

Like the previous Western Digital Passport, the 160GB black version comes with WD Sync software, which includes 128-bit AES encryption software. WD Sync can copy your My Documents folder (or any folders you choose) and sync up the correct version on your home and work machines; it also keeps the data secure in case you lose your travel bag.

The new Passport's 160GB of drive space is enough for over 100,000 digital photos or MP3 files. It also has a mini USB port hidden under a protective rubber door. This Passport eschews the previous version's DC power port and relies totally on USB power to spin the drives. A dual-head USB cable is available for about $10, but most users will be able to run the drive off the included single-plug cable. The case is ruggedized for travel, but you might consider getting the WD Passport Portable Drive Carrying Case ($25), which puts an extra layer of padding around the drive and also stores the USB cable.

Compared with other drives such as the Seagate ST9160821U2-RK 160GB External Hard Drive, which is also USB-powered, the Passport looks better and has a lower list price, but the Seagate finishes ahead with a well-designed, dual-headed USB cable and a full backup program (BounceBack Express). On the Passport, you can back up your important folders and documents, which may be all you need to do. But if you should ever have to recover your operating system and applications, you'll want a more disaster-recovery–oriented package. I'll put it this way: If someone else, such as your IT department, is responsible for your PC and its health, the Passport is a great choice. If you are responsible for taking care of your computer, then you'll need a more robust solution.

I can recommend the Western Digital Passport for those who want svelte styling in an external hard drive and who need document backup more than they do a full-blown disaster-recovery system. The Passport will help you transport your documents or keep them safe, but look to spend a few more bucks to get fully functional backup software if your needs outstrip the included WD Sync software's capabilities.

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