Microdrive

IBM launched the Microdrive in 1999 as the smallest hard drive in the world. Initial capacity was 170MB or 340MB, but the following year IBM announced new versions that could store 512MB or 1GB. The ability to store 1GB of digital files in the same form factor as a CompactFlash card and at an affordable price ($499US at launch) was mind-boggling.

The Microdrive was used to capture digital photos from two successful Space Shuttle missions and was so rugged that IBM claimed it could withstand 1,500Gs of shock. Other manufacturers included Hitachi, Seagate, and Sony. Storage capacity increased to as much as 16GB, but by 2006 their capacity was exceeded by CompactFlash cards.

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