DigiTimes reports that Lite-On will introduce a 48x combo CD-RW/DVD-ROM drive this
April. The combo drive will support 48x reading and writing speeds while
re-writing can be done at 24x. DVDs can be read at a maximum speed of 16x:
 The move comes as DVD-RW drives spring onto the market. Most
optical storage makers predict DVD±RW drives will replace combo
CD-RW/DVD-ROM drives, as recordable DVD discs provide better quality and
longer recording length.
Lite-On IT, however, said demand
will still exist for cheaper combo drives because prices for DVD±RW drives
are much higher in comparison. According to the company, the unit price
for CD-RW drives quoted to retailers is around US$35-40, while the quote
for DVD±RW drives is around US$160-170.
For products to be launched in the
second half, Lite-On IT noted that most PC manufacturers have purchased
DVD+RW drives for their high-end products and combo drives for their
mid-range to low-end products. |
The Lite-On 48x combo drive will be priced at
around $ 55-60 USD. The company plans to release 52x combo drives in the third
quarter of this year.
Source: DigiTimes
