Source: M2 Communications
The Best Of Both Worlds - LaCie FireWire DVD-RAM
LaCie announced the first DVD-RAM drive fitted with the new FireWire/IEEE1394 interface: the LaCie DVDRAM52i. This unparalleled combination associates capacity and connectivity and delivers all the benefits of new storage technology and a new interface. The LaCie DVD-RAM52i is hot-swappable. Connect the drive to a computer and the drive will automatically be recognized and configured, ready for high speed file transfers even if the computer is running. The LaCie DVD-RAM52i can also be daisy-chained with other FireWire devices. DVD-RAM is the perfect choice for archiving as it combines ease of use with the lowest storage cost per MB. The DVD-RAM cartridges are not only reliable, with a life-expectancy of over 30 years, but are also magnetic field-resistant and can withstand temperatures up to 50 degrees C. At 5.2GB per cartridge, DVD-RAM mediaís capacity is up to 8 times as large as that of CD-ROMs and will eventually replace them. DVD-RAM drives read all CDs as well as DVD-ROM and DVD-RAM allowing a smooth upgrade. Herve Petit, Worldwide Communications Director at LaCie comments: ""The LaCie DVD-RAM is able to read any round 12cm optical media such as CDs, DVD-ROM and RAM. Media written by DVD-RAM is readable in DVD-ROM 6x drives and will also be recognized by domestic DVD-video players from 2001. DVD-RAM is the optical technology of the future and LaCie is the first to add the benefits of the new FireWire interface."" The launch of the DVD-RAM52i, increases the LaCie FireWire range (already composing of portable and desktop hard drives) and strengthens the companyís position on this rapidly growing market. LaCie FireWire DVD-RAM and cartridges will be shipping from March through LaCieís accredited resellers. About LaCie LaCie specializes in the development, manufacture and distribution of cross-platform, high end mass storage, digital video and color management computer peripherals. Founded in 1989, the company has grown rapidly with current annual revenue of $170 million and forecast revenue of $200 million for 1999. LaCie products are renowned for combining innovative design concepts with high-performance technology. IT managers and creative professionals world-wide rely on the LaCie brand as a trusted and reliable solution provider The company operates through an international network of offices in 15 countries, which sell to VARs, computer resellers, mail order catalogues and distributors around the world. Production is based in Paris, France and in Oregon, ensuring a steady international supply. LaCie is listed on the Paris Nouveau Marche (code 5431). About FireWire FireWire, also called IEEE 1394 and iLinkô, is the fastest interface standard deployed by IT vendors. It was specifically designed for connecting high-speed computer peripherals such as hard disks, removable drives, DVD drives, DV cameras, music synthesisers, high-end scanners and printers. Originally an Apple interface, FireWire has since been embraced as an industry standard for both PCs and Macs. Its ease of use and high performance have generated worldwide popularity. Today's data-intensive applications demand greater performance from peripherals than ever before. With the widespread use of digital photography, video, music and performance-demanding multimedia applications, traditional serial-port connections can no longer deliver the data throughput required. FireWire is the ideal choice as it supports transfer rates of up to 50MB/s, avoiding data bottlenecks. FireWire benefits: * up to 50MB/s transfer rates (400Mbits/s) * scaleable architecture: daisy chaining of up to 63 devices per bus * hot-plug capability (devices can be added or removed while computer is running with immediate device recognition) * ease of use: automatic configuration, no ID, no terminator, interoperability with most digital audio & video devices * digital multimedia link: no quality loss due to analogue to digital conversion. * small and inexpensive: utilizes thin serial cables.