Toshiba has launched an internal
desktop drive which aims to give users full
HD DVD quality on their PC’s .
Toshiba claims the new drive, SD-H903A will provide users with the high resolution, contrasts and colours needed to bring the benefits of high definition broadcasting to the
home computer .
The drive also supports read and write functionality to HD DVD-R discs, as well as high-speed read and write to all types of standard
DVD and
CD discs. The writing speeds are 3x for DVD-RAM and 16x for CD-R and also supports the latest compression technologies used by Windows Media .
The obvious selling point for such discs is capacity. The HD DVD format, also offers single layer capacities of 15GB and dual layer capacity of 30GB.
A 30GB disc can hold up to 8 hours of HD images and 48 hours of SD images. Triple layer discs are also in development.
Scott MacCabe, Vice President and General Manager, Toshiba
Storage Device Division said, "Toshiba is leading the transition to next-generation DVD technologies with an easy-to-use, low-cost solution for professionals and consumers looking to create and enjoy high-definition content, while still
offering access to current
audio CD and DVD libraries. HD DVD adoption is growing rapidly in all applications from
gaming to A/V editing. With its remarkable resolution, higher storage capacity and interactive offerings, HD DVD brings a superior media experience to consumers. Toshiba's new writer will greatly transform current
PC offerings."
Toshiba will be exhibiting the drive this week at the International Consumer Electronics Show (CES) in
Las Vegas . It is hoped that the drives will be in stores in February however there are no details yet on price.