Gadgets: A file-backup device that's twice as nice

Western Digital has introduced its My Book Mirror Edition, a storage solution to back up photos, music or videos.

The unit uses a RAID (Redundant Array of Inexpensive Drives) system, which automatically stores and backs up data not once but twice with two internal hard drives. Also included is a mirroring data-protection feature.

The My Book Mirror Edition can continuously and automatically back up personal computers and has the mirroring feature to provide redundant data backup.

Features include USB 2.0 interface, configured out-of-the box-in RAID 1 (Mirrored) and is available in capacities of 1 TB and 2 TB.

Western Digital's GreenPower drives provide an efficient cooling system without a fan, so they are quiet. They use up to 33 percent less power than standard systems.

They are available at select retailers and WD's online store, www.shopwd.com. The MSRP for a 1 TB drive is $289.99, and the 2 TB is $549.99.
Information: www.westerndigital.com


Griffin Technology will have protective cases and accessories for Apple's new iPhone 3G, which releases July 11.

The styles include Griffin's Wave, Nu Form, Elan Form and Elan Clip cases
■ Wave ($24.99) for iPhone 3G features wave-shaped contours that overlap and interlock. The double-helix closure provides greater surface area to hold the case together, providing greater security and protection.
■ Nu Form ($24.99) is an impact-resistant hard-shell case that protects the unit in a slim, no-clip design. It includes a thin screen protector, which guards against smudges, scratches and fingerprints but won't interfere with access to the touchscreen.
■ Elan Form ($29.99) is a hard-shell leather case that snaps around the device and offers triple protection in a slim no-clip design. It has top-grain leather to hard-shell polycarbonate material, encasing the iPhone in two layers of protection.
■ Elan Clip ($24.99) is an elegant genuine leather outer case wrapped around a durable polycarbonate shell. It features a belt clip that rotates 180 degrees, so you can see the phone without taking it off your belt.
Information: Available at major retailers, including Apple and AT&T stores, on July 11, or at www.griffintechnology.com in late June.


Combine two of the most popular things out there today — YouTube with reality TV — and you have a new Web site, Yobi.tv.

This site offers cash prizes for posting videos showcasing the creator's talents and expertise to the world.

The site combines user-generated videos and reality television in a contest forum. People don't have to wait for the opportunity to get others to see their talents but instead can use this site to expose and display their work.

There is no charge to create a profile, network, view the work and vote on all contests. Also included is the access to upload videos to the site, which are then eligible for a chance to win cash prizes in a variety of categories.

Each contest has minimum total prizes of $10,000, but contestants can grow their winnings based on sponsorship awards and a percentage of revenue, with unlimited potential.

Different channels serve as contest categories, and users can choose what channel fits their video displaying their talent.

Categories: YOBIVERSE, YOBISing, YOBILaugh, YOBIPets, YOBIMode, YOBIPics and YOBIFilm.
Information: www.Yobi.tv

Gregg Ellman is the Star-Telegram's photo director/technology. His Gadgets column appears weekly