Integral 16GB Crypto-140-2 256-Bit Hardware Encrypted USB 3.0 Secure Flash Memory Drive User Manual

1. Introduction

This manual provides comprehensive instructions for the safe and effective use of your Integral 16GB Crypto-140-2 USB 3.0 Secure Flash Memory Drive. This device is designed to protect your sensitive data with advanced hardware encryption, certified to FIPS 140-2 Level 3 standards. Please read this manual thoroughly before using the product to ensure optimal security and performance.

2. Product Overview

The Integral Crypto-140-2 is a high-security USB flash drive featuring 256-bit hardware encryption. It is built with a rugged, triple-layer waterproof design to protect against physical damage and unauthorized access. The drive offers fast data transfer speeds via USB 3.0 and incorporates features like brute-force password protection and auto-lock functionality to safeguard your information.

Figure 2.1: The Integral Crypto-140-2 USB 3.0 Secure Flash Drive with its protective cap removed, showing the USB connector and the attached AES TOTAL LOCK keychain.

3. Key Features

• FIPS 140-2 Level 3 Certified: Meets stringent government security standards for data protection.
• 256-Bit Hardware Encryption: All data is encrypted in real-time by a dedicated hardware chip, ensuring zero footprint on the host computer.
• Brute-Force Password Protection: The drive automatically erases all data and the encryption key after 6 failed password attempts, resetting the drive to prevent unauthorized access.
• Rugged Triple-Layer Waterproof Design: Features an epoxy resin-sealed electronic core, a hardened inner case, and a rubberized silicone outer casing for protection against physical damage and water submersion (IEC/EN 60529 IPX8).
• Auto-Lock Functionality: The drive automatically locks and encrypts all data when removed from a PC/Mac or when the computer's screen saver or lock function is activated.
• Secure Entry: Requires a high-strength alphanumeric password (8-16 characters) for access. A password hint option is available, but the hint cannot match the password.
• SuperSpeed USB 3.0: Provides fast read and write speeds for efficient data transfer.
• Cross-Platform Compatibility: Compatible with Microsoft Windows XP/Vista/7/8.1/10/11. Note: This product is not Mac compatible.

Figure 3.1: Illustration of the brute-force password protection feature, where data is securely destroyed after 6 failed login attempts.

Figure 3.2: Depiction of the drive's autolock feature, which activates when removed from a PC or when the PC locks. The drive also supports multi-lingual interfaces.

Figure 3.3: Exploded view showing the triple-layer construction: rubber casing, hardened inner case, and epoxy resin-sealed electronics, providing waterproof and tamper-proof protection.

Figure 3.4: Internal view highlighting the hardware encryption chip, which performs all encryption directly on the drive, leaving no trace on the host system.

4. Setup

To begin using your Integral Crypto-140-2 drive, follow these initial setup steps:

1. Initial Connection: Plug the Integral Crypto-140-2 drive into an available USB 3.0 port on your Windows computer.
2. Software Launch: The drive will present a read-only partition containing the encryption software. If your computer has autorun enabled, the software should launch automatically. Otherwise, navigate to the drive in 'My Computer' or 'This PC' and execute the application file (e.g., 'Crypto.exe').
3. Password Creation: Follow the on-screen prompts to set up your initial password.
   • Your password must be alphanumeric and between 8 to 16 characters in length.
   • You will be prompted to create a password hint. Ensure the hint does not match your actual password.
4. Drive Initialization: Once the password is set, the secure partition of the drive will become accessible. You can now begin storing your data.

Important Note: This drive is designed for Windows operating systems (XP/Vista/7/8.1/10/11) only and is not compatible with Mac OS.

5. Operating Instructions

5.1 Accessing Your Data

1. Insert the drive into a USB port.
2. Launch the encryption software from the read-only partition (as described in Setup).
3. Enter your correct password when prompted.
4. The secure data partition will then be mounted and accessible like any standard USB drive.

Figure 5.1: A visual representation of the secure entry password prompt, emphasizing the need for a strong alphanumeric password.

5.2 Locking and Unlocking the Drive

• Manual Lock: Within the encryption software interface, there will be an option to 'Lock' or 'Eject' the drive. Selecting this will secure your data and make the drive inaccessible until the correct password is re-entered.
• Automatic Lock (Auto-lock): The drive will automatically lock and encrypt all data under the following conditions:
  • When the drive is physically removed from the computer.
  • When the computer's screen saver activates.
  • When the computer's 'lock' function is engaged.

5.3 Brute-Force Protection

For enhanced security, the Integral Crypto-140-2 drive incorporates a brute-force attack protection mechanism. If an incorrect password is entered 6 consecutive times, the drive will automatically initiate a secure data erasure process. This action permanently destroys all data stored on the drive and the encryption key, resetting the drive to its factory state. This feature prevents unauthorized access attempts from compromising your sensitive information.

6. Maintenance

• Physical Care: Despite its rugged design, avoid unnecessary physical stress, extreme temperatures, or harsh chemicals. The triple-layer design provides protection against water and impacts, but proper handling is always recommended.
• Password Management:
  • Always remember your password. There is no backdoor or recovery method for forgotten passwords due to the hardware encryption.
  • Utilize the password hint feature, but ensure the hint is not easily guessable or directly related to the password.
  • If you forget your password and exceed the 6 failed attempts, the drive will be wiped clean, and data will be unrecoverable.
• Software Updates: Periodically check the Integral Memory website for any firmware or software updates for your Crypto-140-2 drive to ensure optimal performance and security.

7. Troubleshooting

Issue: Drive not recognized or software not launching.

Solution:

• Ensure the drive is fully inserted into the USB port.
• Try a different USB port on your computer.
• Manually navigate to the drive in 'My Computer' or 'This PC' and run the executable file (e.g., 'Crypto.exe').
• Verify your operating system is Windows (XP/Vista/7/8.1/10/11). The drive is not compatible with Mac OS.

Issue: Forgotten password.

Solution:

• Use the password hint if you set one.
• If you cannot recall the password after 6 attempts, the drive will perform a secure wipe, and all data will be lost. Data recovery is not possible in this scenario.

Issue: Drive becomes quirky or stops unlocking after extended use.

Solution:

• Always use the 'Lock' or 'Eject' function within the software before physically removing the drive. Improper ejection can sometimes lead to file system issues.
• Ensure your computer's USB drivers are up to date.
• If the issue persists, contact Integral Memory support for further assistance.

8. Specifications

9. Warranty and Support

For warranty information and technical support, please refer to the documentation included with your product or visit the official Integral Memory website. Integral Memory PLC is the manufacturer and provider of support for this product.

Additional data recovery plans may be available for purchase separately. Please check with your retailer or Integral Memory for details.