Using the My Passport Slim
You can connect the My Passport Slim to your Windows PC or Mac via either USB 2.0 or USB 3.0 with the cable provided in the box.
The drive comes with three separate programs that you can install if you so wish – WD Drive Utilities, WD Security and WD SmartWare, all have their advantages.
WD Drive Utilities
This software is designed to keep your drive performing at its best by running diagnostics, managing the power settings, and more.
Once installed you can run various tests on the drive, including S.M.A.R.T. tests, quick tests and even a complete drive test (which takes a long time). All these tools are very useful to keep a check on the health of your drive.
There is also a Sleep Timer setting which enables you to set a time limit on when the drive will go into sleep mode.
You can quickly and easily erase the drive too.
WD Security
WD Security enables you to protect your drive with a password and 256-bit hardware-based encryption.
When you first run WD Security, you are asked to enter a password and a password hint. You can also choose to auto unlock the drive for your user account.
You can also make changes to your selection, but only after you have entered your password.
Unlocking the drive is simple – just type in your password.
And now you have access to the drive.
Is this a purely solid state drive, a traditional HDD or a hybrid? The reason I ask is that I need something with very low power consumption in order to work with my Microsoft Surface 2 (not the Pro), on the road. External HDD’s such as the original WD My Passport don’t work unless they already require a separate power supply.
It’s a standard 2.5” drive