SystemSoft Corp. has developed a new utility, called SmartMonitor, which predicts hard disk failures for desktop and mobile PCs.

The utility periodically scans the disk for problems, utilizing a technology developed by hard disk manufacturers, called the Self-Monitoring Analysis and Reporting Technology (S.M.A.R.T.).

The early-warning system allows users to back up their data and possibly correct the problem before the failure occurs.

SmartMonitor runs on a Pentium-class computer under Windows 95, 98 and NT. It requires 1.5MB of disk space on a PC with at least 16MB of RAM.

The utility can be purchased for $19.95 through SystemSoft's web site at www.systemsoft.com .