0017] In the present invention, a predetermined file format can be used to store the digital media content. The predetermined file format can be configured to be incompatible with the file for mats used by major computer operating systems, such as Windows, Linux, Unix, and Apple`s operating system. The predetermined file format can allow digital media content to be saved on the digital storage medium 114 without allowing easy access to the digital storage medium by external devices controlled by these operating systems. Since the predetermined file format is not compatible with the storage format used by these operating systems, the digital media files stored on the digital storage medium can be substantially secure.

[0018] In the following discussion the file format is referred to as the digital storage medium format information. The term ``data`` is used to refer to digital media files plus digital storage medium format information. A ``data stream`` refers to one or more digital storage medium commands plus the ``data``.

[0019] A digital storage security module 10 can be placed between the media bridge 108 and the digital storage medium 114 to provide secure access to the digital media files. The digital storage security module can secure a data stream that includes the digital media files and digital storage medium format information before it is stored on the digital storage medium. Interfacing with the media bridge 108 or media processor 116 can require that transferred data to or from the digital storage medium be preceded by commands. The digital storage medium, being an unsecured device, is not able to process commands that have been secured. The digital storage security module can be configured to monitor the data stream and distinguish commands from data; leaving hardware commands unsecured while securing the data. For example, if the digital storage medium is an ATA hard drive, the digital storage security module can leave the commands necessary to operate the ATA hard drive unsecured. By Securing only the data, and not the commands to the digital storage medium, the digital storage security module can enable the digital media files and format information to be securely stored on the digital storage medium without requiring specialized chips to send, receive, and store the secured data.

e.Digitals format...this is all coming down to the data segment structure combined with the API of the MOS.

This segment structure is the key to the whole process....the API includes levels of security for files processed on this structure at different levels.

It`s not solely about flash....it`s about any media storage device.

doni