CD-ROM Drives

The 12/20PleX, Plextorís 12X-20X SCSI CD-ROM drive, boasts Constant Angular Velocity (CAV) technology, which improves data throughput at the outer rim of the disc. A 512KB buffer saves CPU resources, resulting in better audio and video playback. The 12/20Plex is compatible with CD-R/W, allowing users to migrate to the next generation of writable CD media. A full two year warranty covers parts, labor and replacement. Plextor Corp., Santa Clara, CA, (800) 886-3935, www.plextor.com.

Write 710 on Inquiry Card

Both the motor and the tray in Toshibaís XM-6102B internal 12X-24X CD-ROM drive were redesigned to handle the 6,300 RPM achieved at 24X, minimizing media vibration. The drive is MPC-3 compliant and supports multi-session, Photo CD, Video CD and CD-EXTRA. Like other Toshiba CD-ROM drives, the XM-6102B employs the Active Wide Range playback system, enabling data to be read at 80% of a specific rotational speed. For flexibility, the drive may be mounted horizontally or vertically. Toshiba America Information Systems, Irvine, CA, (714) 457-0777, www.tais.com/taisdpd/.

Write 711 on Inquiry Card

For those on the go, Axonix offers the ProMedia 20XT, a portable CD-ROM drive capable of 20X speeds. Because the unit draws power directly from a laptop computer via a Type II PC Card, it requires no bulky AC adapters or battery packs. The ProMedia 20XT weighs just 15 ounces and measures 6" x 5 1/8" x 7/8". It supports Windows 95 Plug and Play, allowing one to insert an auto-play disc and instantly run the application without clicking on icons or performing set-up procedures. The drive can also be hot swapped while the computer power is on. Axonix Corp., Salt Lake City, UT, (800) 866-9797, www.axonix.com.

Write 712 on Inquiry Card

From Sony comes the PRD-650 Discman, a 6X portable CD-ROM drive that suits mobile presenters and students who wish to access reference material around the clock. The drive requires four AA batteries or an optional lithium-ion battery to provide several hours of CD-ROM or audio CD use. It comes standard with a PC Card and cable for Windows machines or a SCSI II cable for Macintosh PowerBooks. Sony recently lowered its SRP by $100, to $299.99. Sony Electronics, Inc., San Jose, CA, (800) 352-7669, www.sony.com/technology.

Write 713 on Inquiry Card

In libraries and other locations where multiple people need to access CD-ROMs, a CD tower or CD server may fit the bill. JMR Electronicsí Info Towers 7 & 14 accommodate seven or 14 half-height 5 1/4" drive bays respectively and an Axis controller bay in a single enclosure. Drives are protected behind a lockable smoked Plexiglas front door. Other highlights include internal cabling, a 300 watt power supply, a quiet cooling fan and rear-panel cut-out for I/O installation. JMR Electronics, Chatsworth, CA, (818) 993-4801, jmr.com.

Write 714 on Inquiry Card

Ornetix Network Products has introduced HyperLinQ, a miniature CD-ROM server that slides into a standard 5.25" drive bay of a CD-ROM tower. CD-Commander software provides network users with point-and-click access to up to 112 drives. The performance of HyperLinQ has no effect on, and is not affected by, the file server. TurboCache, a sophisticated caching mechanism, delivers a speed equivalent to 55X CD drives. The server supports Microsoft Windows NT, Novell NetWare and IntraNetWare networks in their native modes. Ornetix Network Products, San Jose, CA, (888) ORNETIX, www.ornetix.com.

Write 715 on Inquiry Card

Featured

  • cloud icon with a padlock overlay set against a digital background featuring binary code and network nodes

    Cloud Security Auditing Tool Uses AI to Validate Providers' Security Assessments

    The Cloud Security Alliance has unveiled a new artificial intelligence-powered system that automates the validation of cloud service providers' (CSPs) security assessments, aiming to improve transparency and trust across the cloud computing landscape.

  • robot brain with various technology and business icons

    Google Cloud Study: Early Agentic AI Adopters See Better ROI

    Google Cloud has released its second annual ROI of AI study, finding that 52% of enterprise organizations now deploy AI agents in production environments. The comprehensive survey of 3,466 senior leaders across 24 countries highlights the emergence of a distinct group of "agentic AI early adopters" who are achieving measurably higher returns on their AI investments.

  • laptop with a neural network image, surrounded by books, notebooks, a magnifying glass, a pencil cup, and a desk lamp

    D2L Updates Lumi with Personalized Study Supports

    Learning platform D2L has introduced new artificial intelligence features for D2L Lumi that help provide more personalized study supports for students.

  • cloud with binary code and technology imagery

    Hybrid and AI Expansion Outpacing Cloud Security

    A survey from the Cloud Security Alliance and Tenable finds that rapid adoption of hybrid, multi-cloud and AI systems is outpacing the security measures meant to protect them, leaving organizations exposed to preventable breaches and identity-related risks.