Review: G-Connect wireless storage for iPad

17.07.2012
The scoop: G-Connect storage for , by G-Technology by Hitachi Global Storage Technologies, about $168 (Amazon).

What is it? Similar to Seagate's device, the G-Connect is an external hard drive (500GB capacity) that also includes a Wi-Fi connection. The idea is that instead of putting your multimedia content (photos, movies, music) on the iPad or (which has relatively limited storage space), you store it onto the G-Connect, and then stream the content to the device via its wireless link.

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This also means multiple devices can access content stored on the device -- again, easier than hard-loading everything onto the individual client device. A special iOS app for iPhones and iPads can access the drive quite easily, or you can use a browser and connect through a special website (gtech-connect.com).

Why it's cool: The unit's Wi-Fi connection also provides Internet pass-through functionality for client devices connected to the G-Connect. This means that if you're streaming content on the iPad or iPhone and then need to use the browser or other app to check something on the Internet, you don't have to switch back to your original wireless SSID.

You can decide the portability of the unit. If you want to keep the G-Connect within the home, it has an Ethernet port for connecting to a , switch or powerline adapter -- this lets you create your own network-attached storage (NAS) box. While the device is powered by an included AC adapter, G-Technology says it can also be powered by an external USB battery (such as those you'd use to power an iPhone or battery), or a cigarette adapter charger (the same kind that recharges ).