Pioneer High Fidelity Taiwan (Pioneer Taiwan), Pioneer's marketing subsidiary in Taiwan, on May 23 debuted two new Blu-ray Disc (BD) optical drives for the PC, BDC-S02, a Blu-ray Disc combo drive, and BDR-202, a BD burner. The products are tentatively scheduled to launch in the Taiwan market in June and July or August respectively.BDC-S02 supports reading/writing of DVD+R/-R SL (single-sided single-layer), DVD+R/-R DL (single-sided double-layer), DVD+RW/-RW, CD-R and CD-RW as well as reading of BD-ROM, BD-R, BD-RE (rewritable), DVD-ROM and CD-ROM according to Pioneer Taiwan. BDR-202 supports all of the capabilities of BDC-S02 and adds support for the writing of BD-R and BD-RE (the difference between combo and burner), Pioneer Taiwan indicated. For the Taiwan market, BDC-S02 will be sold at the current global market recommended retail price of US$299, while the retail price for BDR-202 is tentatively set at NT$21,000 (US$631), Pioneer Taiwan pointed out.In related news, Pioneer adjusted the marketing organization of its optical disc drive business in April by assigning Pioneer Taiwan as its Asia Pacific (except Japan and South Korea) operational center for such products. This makes the office responsible for marketing in China, Singapore, Hong Kong, Thailand, Malaysia and Indonesia, according to Shannon Yu, general manager, optical disc drive business division, Pioneer Taiwan. Pioneer aims to sell four million optical disc drives of various types in these markets in 2007, Yu pointed out. Pioneer BDC-S02BK BD Combo drive, (BK is the suffix for black color)Photo: CompanyPioneer BDR-202BK BD BurnerPhoto: Company

Silicon Integrated Systems (SiS) announced that Dell has adopted its SiSM661GX chipsets in the Dell EC280, the computer giant's MoDT (mobile on desktop) PC solution for the China market, which was introduced on March 21. However, concerning the EC280, some makers believe that MoDT solutions should not be pushed in emerging markets, as it will drive down prices for the platform. Although most MoDT systems are targeted at the high-end, the Dell EC280 features much lower specifications, and is being offered in China at prices ranging from Chinese yuan 599-3,999 (US$339-522).The system features an Intel Celeron M 205 processor with a 400MHz FSB (front side bus), DDR 256/512MB memory, 40/80GB HDD options, CD-ROM or DVD-ROM options and the Windows XP Home Edition operating system (OS). The whole system only consumes 65 watts, according to SiS.The systems are also being offered with two hard drive options and three monitor choices – 17- and 15-inch LCD displays and a 17-inch CRT option. Customers may also choose to not include a monitor. With most makers using a strategy of low-volumes and high-profits in the MoDT PC segment, sources at MoDT makers noted that Dell's strategy is quite different and the PC vendor is unlikely to see any profits with its entry-level pricing strategy. However, some PC vendors believe Dell's strategy is to expand its share in emerging markets. Dell EC280Photo: Company

Dell expanded its line of desktop gaming systems by introducing the XPS 720 H2C, which is designed for overclocking.The XPS 720 H2C pushes the performance with Enhanced Performance Profiles (EPP) memory technology. The system ships with 800MHz Corsair DOMINATOR EPP memory modules (factory overclocked to 1066MHz) combined with Intel multi-core processors (factory overclocked up to bin+3). Additionally, BIOS switches allow users to manipulate the speed of the FSB (front side bus) and chipset through the Windows operating system and third-party applications such as Nvidia's nTune.Systems configured with dual SLI-enabled Nvidia GeForce graphics cards will be ideally suited to take on this year's highly anticipated DirectX 10 gaming titles, as well as next-generation OpenGL titles. Hard-core multi-taskers can set up dual or even quad-display stations to combine game play with productivity applications. With a starting price of US$5,999, the XPS 720 H2C features Intel Core 2 Extreme quad-core processor QX6700 at 2.66GHz (factory overclocked to 3.46GHz) combined with Nvidia nForce 680i SLI MCP, 2GB 800MHz Corsair DOMINATOR DDR2 memory featuring EPP (factory overclocked to 1066MHz) and SLI-enabled dual 768MB Nvidia GeForce 8800 GTX graphics cards.The XPS 720 H2C is available immediately in the US and will be available the next few weeks in Europe. Dell XPS 720 H2C Edition specifications Item Detail Processor Intel Core 2 Extreme QX6700 Intel Core 2 Extreme X6800 Intel Core 2 Extreme QX6800 Chipset Nvidia nForce 680i SLI MCP Memory Up to 4GB dual-channel DDR2 SDRAM (667MHz or 800MHz, 2 or 4 DIMMs) Up to 8GB when 64-bit operating system is installed VGA Dual 768MB Nvidia GeForce 8800 GTX graphics cards - SLI enabled Source: Company, compiled by Digitimes, May 2007Dell XPS 720 H2CPhoto: Company

OCZ Technology Group announced their official crossover into DDR3 memory to coincide with the recent launch of the Intel Bearlake chipset. OCZ's hand-tested DDR3 solutions enable ardent enthusiasts to take advantage of the highly-anticipated P35 platform while experiencing the legendary quality and reliability of OCZ memory, according to OCZ.OCZ's DDR3 products will accommodate standard JEDEC specifications for third generation DDR. OCZ is offering its Gold Series memory kits in PC3-8500 (1066MHz) and PC3-10666 (1333MHz) speed grades.OCZ Gold DDR3 modules will be initially available in 2x512MB and 2x1024MB dual channel kits. These modules are currently available in limited quantity and OCZ has been working closely with leading platform providers to ensure optimal performance and compatibility on all the next generation computing platforms that will be introduced later this year.Each module is 100% hand-tested for quality assurance and compatibility and feature proprietary gold-mirrored XTC (Xtreme Thermal Convection) heatspreaders for the most effective heat dissipation, stated OCZ. As part of OCZ's line-up of premium memory, the DDR3 series is backed by a Lifetime Warranty and industry-leading technical support, stated the company.OCZ Technology's DDR3 memory modulesPhoto: Company

Panasonic expanded its Lumix family of digital cameras with the introduction of the compact Lumix DMC- FX100, a 12.2-megapixel resolution camera with a 28mm wide-angle lens.The newly developed and exclusive 28mm wide-angle Leica DC lens on the DMC-FX100 features a 3.6x optical zoom, f/2.8 brightness, 1/1.72-inch large CCD and Intelligent Image Stabilization with Mega O.I.S. and Intelligent ISO Control. The Lumix DMC-FX100 will be equipped with a 2.5-inch LCD screen, stated Panasonic.Intelligent Image Stabilization is a feature across the Panasonic's entire 2007 Lumix digital camera line, and provides countermeasures against blurring. This system comprises two features – MEGA O.I.S. (Optical Image Stabilization) and Intelligent ISO Control.The DMC-FX100 also introduces a more powerful flash with reach up to 16 meters, high-speed burst shooting, which allows consecutive shooting at a lightning-fast eight shots per second and a new high sensitivity mode in which ISO 6400 recording is realized, according to Panasonic.The DMC- FX100 can also record 1920×1080 high-definition still pictures and 1280×720 at 15 frames per second motion pictures.The Lumix DMC-FX100 also includes an Easy Zoom feature that shifts the lens instantly to full 3.6x zoom power. A second touch of the button activates the Extra Optical Zoom function and extends zoom all the way to 7x, but recording at this zoom level is limited to a 3-megapixel resolution.The camera has 27MB of built-in memory and will be available in silver and black colors. The Lumix DMC-FX100 will be available in July 2007.The Panasonic Lumix DMC-FX100K digital cameraPhoto: CompanyThe Panasonic Lumix DMC-FX100S digital cameraPhoto: Company

Western Digital (WD) announced it is now shipping its 250GB WD Scorpio 2.5-inch Serial ATA (SATA) hard drives. The drives employ perpendicular magnetic recording (PMR) technology to achieve one of the highest capacities available in a small form factor drive and have WD proprietary features that make the drive quiet, use less power and run at cool operating temperatures, according to the company.The new WD Scorpio drive further expands the company's breadth of 2.5-inch mobile hard drive offerings to capacity points ranging from 40GB up to 250GB.The WD Scorpio features WD's exclusive WhisperDrive technology, which combines state-of-the-art seeking algorithms to yield one of the quietest 5400RPM, 2.5-inch drives available, according to the company. ShockGuard technology combines firmware and hardware advancements to protect the drive mechanics and platter surface to meet the highest combined shock tolerance specifications required for mobile and notebook applications. Another unique WD Scorpio 250GB feature is its IntelliSeek technology, which proactively calculates an optimum seek speed to eliminate hasty movement of the actuator that produces noise and requires power, which is common in other drives, stated WD. With IntelliSeek, the actuator's movement is controlled so the head reaches the next target sector just in time to read the next piece of information, rather than rapidly accelerating and waiting for the drive rotation to catch up. This smooth motion reduces power usage by more than 60% compared with standard drives, as well as quiets seek operation and lowers vibration, according to the company.Western Digital's 250GB Scorpio 2.5-inch Serial ATA (SATA) hard drivePhoto: Company

Transcend Information has released its latest Hi-Speed USB 2.0 microSD card reader, the S2. Transcend's S2 Card Reader measures 44×19×11mm and weighs seven grams.The portable S2 card reader can read data directly from the popular microSD card used in cell phones and other mobile devices. It is equipped with a USB 2.0 connector, so a USB cable is not necessary. Besides, the S2 features high-speed transfer rate (up to 480Mb/s), user-friendly operation, and a small and stylish design.The S2 microSD card reader has a red LED light that shows when data is being transferred. Without any installation hassle, Transcend's S2 microSD card reader can be easily plugged into the USB port on any desktop or notebook computer, for a high-speed data transfer.The S2 is now available in pearl white and is compatible with Windows 98SE/2000/ME/XP/Vista, Mac OS 9, and Linux Kernel 2.4 and later versions. Transcend S2 card reader Features Fully compliant with the Hi-Speed USB 2.0 specification and supports USB 1.1 Supports the direct input of microSD card Hi-Speed data transfer rates up to 480Mb/s USB powered (no external power or battery required) LED indicates card insertion, and data traffic Compatible with Windows 98SE/2000/ME/XP/Vista, Mac OS 9, and Linux Kernel 2.4 and later versions Part number: TS-RDS2 Source: Company, compiled by Digitimes, May 2007Transcend S2 card readerPhoto: Company

Yageo announced the release of X5R dielectric multilayer ceramic capacitors (MLCC) in 100μF, 1210 size package targeting applications in today's ultra compact electronic devices where component stability under high temperature is a key concern for manufacturers.Yageo's X5R 1210 100μF surface mount MLCC, which are under 2mm in dielectric thickness, under 1mm in electrode thickness with 800 layers, are available in temperature operating ranges of -55 degrees Celsius to 85 degrees Celsius and capacitance tolerance of ±15%.Yageo's release of the X5R dielectric MLCC in 100μF, 1210 size package will lead to changes in the 100μF capacitor markets, which were traditionally dominated by tantalum capacitors. X5R 1210 100μF chip ceramic capacitors provide superior temperature stability and are widely applied to LCD TV, LCD monitor, power supply, and portable consumer electronics with low power consumption, according to Yageo. It is expected that the X5R dielectric MLCC in 100μF, 1210 size package will effectively replace tantalum capacitors, noted the company.In anticipation of strong customer demand for specialty MLCCs, Yageo has been focusing on X5R and Y5V product development with its strength in advanced technologies. Currently, specialty MLCCs contribute to 40% of Yageo's turnover.

Power Quotient International (PQI) has released the Traveling Disks H series. Current models in the H series are Cool Drive U310H, U350H and U339H, all of which support Windows Vista ReadyBoost. In addition to performance, Webaroo offline browser comes built-in in every H series Traveling Disk. Webaroo downloads and saves Internet packets of the website the user chooses, allowing the user to browse online content offline on a notebook, PDA or a smartphone, said the company.The H series is placed in the mid-range to high-end category of USB flash drives and is available from 512MB to 4GB capacities, noted PQI.Apart from ReadyBoost support, the H series also boasts faster read and write performance over standard multi-level-cell (MLC) USB flash drives. Extra effort was placed on aesthetics as well to differentiate the H series from their siblings using techniques such as sand blasting, hairline treated, and mirror finishes, said PQI.PQI ReadyBoost-supporting Traveling Disk H seriesPhoto: Company

D-Link has introduced its new D-Link Xtreme N Duo MediaBridge which allows users to add 5GHz Draft 802.11n capabilities to an existing router.Wireless 802.11n operating at 5GHz makes it possible to stream high-definition (HD) multimedia content throughout the home, from PCs to home entertainment centers, with minimal interference and congestion from legacy (2.4GHz) networks, according to the company. The new D-Link Xtreme N Duo MediaBridge (DAP-1555) helps avoid interference by allowing the user to use the 5GHz frequency band to provide a stable high-performance wireless link for streaming HD video and more.To provide Draft 802.11n wireless performance to an existing router, the DAP-1555 attaches to an Ethernet port and then sends the dual-band draft 11n signal throughout the home. Users can utilize two MediaBridge adapters for optimal performance by connecting one to the router and the second to an Ethernet capable device in the home entertainment center. The D-Link DAP-1555 can connect up to five devices – including game consoles, Digital Video Recorders (DVR) and Digital Media Adapters (DMA) – all at the same time.The DAP-1555 includes D-Link's MediaBand technology, which helps provide a stable high-performance wireless link for streaming multiple HD videos, according to D-Link. By allowing users to operate in a clear wireless band for multimedia streams, it avoids interference that may slow down and limit the range of current wireless technologies such as 802.11b/g and draft 802.11n.The Xtreme N Duo MediaBridge is the latest addition D-Link's Xtreme N product family. The DAP-1555 works with next generation dual-band (2.4GHz and 5GHz) 802.11n wireless devices as well as legacy 802.11a/b/g products. It is designed for users looking to get a faster wireless connection capable of handling HD video streams while providing the maximum home coverage they need.The D-Link Xtreme N Duo MediaBridge with MediaBand technology (DAP-1555) is expected to ship early in the third quarter to D-Link's network of retail outlets, value-added resellers and distributors. Pricing will be announced when the product ships.