Toshiba PA3555U-1ETC USB Data Link Review

I needed to copy files from the IBM Thinkpad T43 (XP) to a Dell Latiitude E6400 (Vista) and thought this USB transfer cable would enable me to do so. After plugging one end to one machine and the other end to the other machine, the XP machine was able to open the application (EasyCopy) that was embedded in the cable. The Vista showed an error, indicating that EasyCopy stopped working. "A problem caused the program to stop working correctly. Windows will close the program and notify you if a solution is available." The Vista was brand new and hasn't had any issues.

After finding the equivalent product on Toshiba's website, I called its support number, which, by the way, is not available on the weekends. When I reached their Support and explained the situation, they didn't bother to troubleshoot the error. Instead, they would rather send me a replacement cable, as long as I send the cable that didn't work. I was assured that I didn't need to pay for the shipping. After filling out an online form and getting their RMA (return merchandise authorization), its directions indicated that you need to print two copies and affix one of them on the outer package and use UPS to ship it.

This was not a label accepted by UPS. I would have to pay out of pocket $7.00 to ship it back to Toshiba. After I tried to contact Toshiba about not having to pay for the shipping, I got such a run-around by various people I spoke to. It was not their area. Then I was transferred to the Claim Department, where you had to leave a voicemail and they would return your call in 1-2 business days.

I'd rather stick to copying files from the XP to an external hard drive, disconnect the external hard drive, connect it to the Vista, and copy the files onto the Vista. I didn't want to go through another hassle in the event the replacement cable still doesn't work and get more runaround by Toshiba support.

Buy it here now!