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Black rectangular desktop hard drive enclosure with front keypad

Apricorn

Apricorn ADT-3PL256F-16TB 16TB external hard drive

SKU CH-09BY-W7DY6 MPN ADT-3PL256F-16TB

FIPS 140-2 Level 2 validated 16TB desktop drive with hardware 256-bit encryption and USB 3.0 interface

  • Total capacity16 TB
  • Interface typeUSB 3.0
  • Form factor3.5 in (8.89 cm)
  • Cache memory8 MB
  • Product colorBlack
  • Product dimensions1.5 in × 4.5 in × 7.2 in
  • 16 TB capacity for large-scale data storage
  • USB 3.0 interface for fast transfer speeds
  • FIPS 140-2 Level 2 validated encryption for hardware security
  • 5 inch desktop form factor with integrated keypad
  • 8 MB cache to support sustained performance

Secure high-capacity desktop storage

The Apricorn Aegis Padlock DT is a 16TB external hard drive with hardware-based 256-bit AES encryption and FIPS 140-2 Level 2 validation. It connects via USB 3.0 and uses a 3.5-inch form factor requiring external power. The integrated keypad allows PIN authentication without software installation on the host computer.

Replaces unencrypted portable drives

This drive upgrades from standard external storage that relies on software encryption or offers no protection at all. The jump is worth it when regulatory compliance or data-sensitivity mandates a validated hardware encryption module. It is not suited for users who need bus-powered portability or solid-state speeds for active workloads.

16TB capacity with 8MB cache

The 16TB volume comfortably handles large media libraries, full system images and long-term archival sets. Sequential transfers are limited by the USB 3.0 interface and mechanical throughput, so sustained write-heavy tasks such as video ingest or database replication will saturate the link before the media fills.

How it compares

Measured against everything we stock in High-Capacity External Drives, at today’s prices. Recalculated every night.

Price $764.99
Pricier than about 78% of the 144 comparable items (median $379.99).
Total capacity 16 TB
Higher than about 70% of the 101 comparable items (median 12 TB).
Price per TB $47.81 per TB
Pricier than about 73% of the 101 comparable items (median $37.00 per TB).

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Specifications

Product
Brand nameAPRICORN
Model nameADT-3PL256F-16 TB
Total capacity16 TB
Product colorBlack
Storage
Cache memory8 MB
Ports & slots
Interface typeUSB 3.0
Size & build
Form factor3.5 in (8.89 cm)
Product dimensions1.5 in × 4.5 in × 7.2 in
Product weight3.1 lb (1.41 kg)
Shipping weight2.04 kg
Package size254 × 178 × 76 mm

Questions about this item

What desk space does the 1.50" x 4.50" x 7.20" enclosure need?

The drive occupies a footprint of 4.50 by 7.20 inches and stands 1.50 inches tall, so allow that area plus cable clearance on a stable surface.

How is the USB 3.0 drive installed and what step is often missed?

Connect the supplied power adapter, link the USB 3.0 cable to the host, then enter your admin PIN on the built-in keypad to unlock the hardware-encrypted volume before the OS can see it.

When will the internal 3.5" 16TB mechanism need replacement?

Mechanical 3.5-inch drives typically last three to five years under desktop workloads; plan to migrate data and replace the unit once SMART attributes show reallocated sectors or rising error counts.

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