Western Digital (WD) has launched a new My Book Studio LX external hard drive, which offers a high speed FireWire 800 interface and features a new aluminum case that complements any iMac, G5 or MacBook Pro.

The company claims that the FireWire 800 interface gives users the speed required for tasks such as photo and video editing and graphic design, as well as a customisable e-label that enables users to personalise their media collection and identify information about the drive, such as the contents and remaining capacity, without having to boot up their computer.

According to WD, the My Book Studio LX drives offer automatic backup through SmartWare visual backup software and also sync with Apple Time Machine software. The 256-bit hardware-based encryption provides data security along with password protection that acts as a virtual padlock to keep users’ data safe.

In addition, the new drives also feature GreenPower Technology that lowers internal drive power consumption by up to 30%. WD GreenPower Technology also includes a sleep mode that reduces power during idle times, and a power-saving feature turns the drive on and off with your computer, the company said.

Dale Pistilli, vice president of marketing for branded products group at WD, said: “When choosing the right hard drive, creative professionals look for high-quality materials, maximum speed and visual appeal to complement their creative toolkit. The My Book Studio LX drives offer high-speed Firewire 800 performance and a design that will look right at home next to their G5 or MacBook Pro computer.

“With the customisable e-label, My Book Studio LX drives help videographers, photographers and graphic designers create, organise and locate their clients’ valuable content, no matter how many drives are in their studio.”