Digital cameras, MP3 players, and PDAs have made transferring and storing your files more confusing than ever. Here's how to pick the best bucket for your bytes.

comp0202flop_A.gif Open a file stored on Sony's new pen-inspired Microvault by simply plugging it into the computer's USB port. The device comes in four capacities -- 16MB (yellow), 32MB (red), 64MB (blue), and 128MB (black) -- though models with as much as 2GB of storage could be available within the next couple of years.

USB FLASH MEMORY



Great For: People with two or more unnetworked computers, or those who ferry files from home to work.


Think Twice If: Your files come from digital devices that require a specific type of memory card.


What to Buy: Sony Microvault ($49 for 16MB to $299 for 128MB), IBM Memory Key ($89 for 32MB), Agat Q ($69 for 16MB to $199 for 64MB).


PERSONAL HARD DRIVES



Great For: Data hogs (think 40GB), such as those who want to carry around their collection of MP3s.


Think Twice If: Size and weight concern you -- they're comparatively bulky.


What to Buy: Archos Technology MiniHD ($199), Apple iPod (at $399, it's not just an MP3 player).



REMOVABLE FLASH MEMORY CARDS



Great For: People with many digital devices that require a specific card.



Think Twice If: You want to share your data with others.


What to Buy: Compact Flash card, Secure Digital card, Memory Stick, SmartMedia card -- many options for all, starting at $18.



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