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Curb (for Mac)

Curb lets you quickly delete files from thumb drives, but only if you don't mind cleaning the entire drive.

June 26, 2012

Do you find yourself connecting external storage to your Mac on a regular basis? If you do, check out MRR Software's Curb, a free Mac utility that assists in the USB key file-deletion process. Curb is designed to simplify the trash dumping process by letting you delete files without the data first making a pit stop in your Mac's recycle bin.

This is the problem it solves: When you normally delete files from an external storage device, such as a USB drive or SD card, the unwanted data moves to the trash bin where it takes up storage space. Truly deleting the files means that you must then empty the trash bin—a small, but unneeded, extra step. Curb is a simple tool, but one that you may find useful if you frequently shuttle data between computers.

Kicking Files to the Curb
Curb (compatible with Intel and Power PC Macs running OS X 10.5 and higher) exists on your desktop as a small window that features an arrow that beckons your to drag content onto it. Unfortunately, you can't move individual files onto it; instead you drag the USB key icon there. This may not prove problematic if you want to quickly clean a USB key, but if you want to pick and choose you may want to drag the keeper files to the desktop first. Curb automatically begins the deletion process when you move the file USB key icon onto it—it's that simple. It works with multiple mounted drives, too.

Curb has a few options that let you tweak the app's functionality. You can opt to have the deleted file move to local desktop trash bin, securely delete the files, and even have the Mac automatically eject the drive volume after deletion.

Should You Download Curb?
Curb is a Mac utility that you should download if USB keys and other storage devices are a major part of your day to day existence. Not only is Curb free, but it lets you quickly delete files with little effort. This is handy, provided that your goal is to wipe clean the entire drive.

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