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Here is a press release that all you HTPC folks might enjoy reading. Toshiba unveils world’s first desktop HD DVD/HD DVD writer. The new device expands options for high-definition content creation in media center PC’s – Ray Adkins

Irvine, Calif., January 4, 2007 – Toshiba Storage Device Division (SDD) today announced the world’s first half-height HD DVD writer, providing high-definition video editing and content creation capabilities on desktop systems and media centers using this increasingly popular next-generation DVD technology. Like Toshiba’s slim-line HD DVD writer launched in 2006, the new SD-H903A provides read and write support for legacy formats, enabling users to enjoy existing CD and DVD material along with high-definition DVD content.

Ideally designed for single-bay desktop PCs with its multi-functional capabilities, Toshiba’s SD-H903A is the perfect solution for professional high-definition content creation. In addition, consumers can capture content, edit home videos and create vast digital content repositories for movies, music and photos. With dual layer discs, HD DVD provides 30GB of storage capacity, which can accommodate up to eight hours of HD DVD movie content with extended cuts and interactive features, up to five full-length standard DVD films, up to 7,500 MP3 songs or up to 30,000 high-quality images.

In addition, HD DVD provides massive data back-up capabilities for commercial applications. This functionality is ideal for archiving graphic, legal, financial and technical data, which require reliable, high-quality back-up solutions.

Featuring six times better resolution than standard DVD, the HD DVD format delivers an enhanced viewing experience with brighter colors and greater detail, using the same physical structure of standard DVD technology. As a result, the SD-H903A allows PC and CE manufacturers to make a smooth and affordable transition to high-definition offerings from existing DVD platforms. The SD-H903A features a Serial ATA (SATA) interface for superior performance.

“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,” said Scott Maccabe, vice president and general manager, Toshiba Storage Device Division. “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’s SD-H903A integrates a blue-violet laser diode to read and write HD DVD-R discs and supports high-density HD DVD-ROM discs, including high-definition movie and video images.

Toshiba will showcase its HD DVD offerings for IT and CE manufacturers Jan. 8-11 during the 2007 International Consumer Electronics Show (CES) at the Las Vegas Convention Center (booth 12832). For information on Toshiba’s announcements and events at CES, please visit www.toshibastorage.com. Volume shipments of the SD-H903A are scheduled to start in February with OEM sampling in January.