- Compatible with all write-type DVD and CDs recognized by DVD Forum - Can accept both RW and RAM which uses different DVD recording methods - To be introduced in January next year…Will be shipped to PC makers in stages
Hitachi-LG Data Storage (HLDS), a joint venture between LG Electronics and Hitachi of Japan, has become the first in the world to develop a Multi Writable DVD drive (Model: GMA-4120B) - an ATAPI (AT Attachment Packet Interface: Data transmission interface that is the standard specification for CD/DVD-ROM drive embedded in PC) drive that supports all write type DVD and CDs recognized by DVD Forum. The new DVD drive will be put on the market in January 2002.
The Multi Writable DVD drive is an innovative product that can accommodate both DVD-RW and DVD-RAM which up to now were not interoperable due to lack of standards. The new product is fully compatible with DVD players, can write/playback DVD-RAM and DVD-RW that are used in DVD recorders as well as DVD-R used for image distribution. The new DVD drive can also write/playback DVD-RAM for PC that handles large volumes of data.
In addition, it can write on CD-R or CD-RW that are already widely used and supports record storage optimized for content or data storage.
To support all types of write type DVD and CD, the new Multi Writable DVD drive also comes with a new DSP (Digital Signal Processor - controls writing/playback functions) that supports high-density and high-efficiency-based optical pick-up (medium to convert voice or video signal into electric signal) along with all types of writing formats.
Furthermore, the new Multi Writable DVD drive is not only compatible with write type DVD products, but is also expected to come with a price tag that is lower than existing DVD writing devices and therefore quickly take over that market segment.
HLDS is a joint venture between LG Electronics and Hitachi established in October 2000. The company develops and sells optical disc drive products such as CD-ROM, CD-RW, DVD-ROM, and DVD-RW drives. Its products come in half-height and slim size to be loaded onto desktop and notebook PCs. HLDS supplies its products to leading PC makers including Compaq, IBM, HP, and Dell.
HLDS is the leader of the optical storage market, which encompasses CD-ROM, CD-RW and DVD-ROM with highest market share of 19% (Source: TSR 2001. 8).
