Quite some time ago, we reported about a group working on a new standard called Mount Rainier. This standard should make it possible to use a CDRW drive like a floppydrive. Only with the difference that it's faster and thet capacity is way higher.
Philips' EasyWrite is based upon the Mount Rainier specifications. Some info can be found below here:
First, EasyWrite is simple. In the very near future PC's operating systems will recognize and handle an EasyWrite-equipped drive in the computer (or one attached as an external drive). Even better, with EasyWrite, end-user can use normal CD-RW discs, no special disc is required. Second, EasyWrite is fast. A user can instantly drag and drop data or files to the disc. The drive with EasyWrite on board handles formatting in the background so you're not interrupted by delays. Third, EasyWrite is robust. Thanks to its sophisticated defect management system, there is less sensitivity to media wear and scratches than with other current technology. |
Starting early 2002, EasyWrite will be built into all new Philips CD-RW drives and next generation CD-RW drives that read DVD-ROM. This underlines the role of Philips as the leading storage solutions provider with proven track record in industry standards. EasyWrite is a new addition to the Philips 'Intelligent" drive features. Other features include Thermo Balanced Writing (TBW) and the buffer under run protection SeamlessLink.
Well ofcourse this is a nice development in the CDRW hardware market. It's just to hope that other companies will implement the Mount Rainier standard very soon and that they are going to be 100% compatible with each other. I know it was intended to be exchangable without any problems, but we've heard this before...
One thing: Intel will like this technology. They decided about a month ago that the floppy drive as we know it won't be in PC's anymore after 2003...
Source: Philips' website
