BluRay Region Coding Japan & US Same Region
Published by Admin on 29.12.05 at 12/29/2005 09:36:00 AM.
Masakazu Honda @ ITMedia reports about the final review version of the AACS contents management system for HD formats such as Blu-ray Disc and HD-DVD. AACS LA consists of IBM, Sony, Toshiba, Warner, Intel, Microsoft, Matsushita, and Disney.
+ ICT (Image Constrain Token) must be supported by AACS software and hardware as Warner wanted. ICT is utilized to limit hi-res analog output. But in countries such as Japan in which the laws prohibit ICT, it's not required until 2011. Contents providers except for Warner say they don't use ICT, but according to Honda even Warner won't use it because of commercial reasons.
+ Though Warner was eager to abolish region code and there were no objection until the final decision, film companies not in AACS LA opposed it and it was decided that region code stays in BD-ROM. But it undergoes reorganization. Basically, Japan and other East Asian countries except for China are moved to Region 1. The new region codes are
Region 1: North America, South America, East Asia except for China (India, Japan, Korea, Thailand, Malaysia etc.)
Region 2: Europe and Africa
Region 3: China, Russia and other countries
Link
+ ICT (Image Constrain Token) must be supported by AACS software and hardware as Warner wanted. ICT is utilized to limit hi-res analog output. But in countries such as Japan in which the laws prohibit ICT, it's not required until 2011. Contents providers except for Warner say they don't use ICT, but according to Honda even Warner won't use it because of commercial reasons.
+ Though Warner was eager to abolish region code and there were no objection until the final decision, film companies not in AACS LA opposed it and it was decided that region code stays in BD-ROM. But it undergoes reorganization. Basically, Japan and other East Asian countries except for China are moved to Region 1. The new region codes are
Region 1: North America, South America, East Asia except for China (India, Japan, Korea, Thailand, Malaysia etc.)
Region 2: Europe and Africa
Region 3: China, Russia and other countries
Link
Next-gen DVD a non-starter?
Published by Admin on at 12/29/2005 09:35:00 AM.
The New York Times is joining the fray of nay-sayers proclaiming a forthcoming dud in the next-gen optical storage wars. Like so many, the NY Times' Ken Belson is running with the story that the next-gen is too little, too late to keep users interested, suggesting that we've already entered into the age of disc-less wonder. The article, which is mostly an oversimplified rehashing of recent developments, suggests this overall assessment of where things are:
There are growing signs, though, that the battle for supremacy in this multibillion-dollar market may yield a hollow victory. As electronics makers, technology companies and Hollywood studios haggle over the fine points of their formats, consumers are quickly finding alternatives to buying and renting packaged DVD's, high-definition or otherwise.
I wanted to briefly address this story, because it's one of the longer and more considered opinions on this topic to date, and I can promise you one thing: there will be many, many more stories of this ilk before 2006 closes. We're currently ramping up to CES in Las Vegas in early January, when both HD DVD and Blu-ray proponents will be debuting what will essentially be their launch configurations (hardware line-ups, drive specs, movie availability, etc.). In true journalistic fashion, the reports of what goes on at the show will be foreshadowed then followed with reports about how Joe and Jane don't really need/want hi-definition, how they're confused, and how they can't justify the upgrade. And when we get to 2007 and penetration is strong, they'll pretend they never wrote this stuff.
Link
There are growing signs, though, that the battle for supremacy in this multibillion-dollar market may yield a hollow victory. As electronics makers, technology companies and Hollywood studios haggle over the fine points of their formats, consumers are quickly finding alternatives to buying and renting packaged DVD's, high-definition or otherwise.
I wanted to briefly address this story, because it's one of the longer and more considered opinions on this topic to date, and I can promise you one thing: there will be many, many more stories of this ilk before 2006 closes. We're currently ramping up to CES in Las Vegas in early January, when both HD DVD and Blu-ray proponents will be debuting what will essentially be their launch configurations (hardware line-ups, drive specs, movie availability, etc.). In true journalistic fashion, the reports of what goes on at the show will be foreshadowed then followed with reports about how Joe and Jane don't really need/want hi-definition, how they're confused, and how they can't justify the upgrade. And when we get to 2007 and penetration is strong, they'll pretend they never wrote this stuff.
Link
More Details Of Pioneer's First Internal Blu-Ray Disc Writer
Published by Admin on 28.12.05 at 12/28/2005 10:05:00 AM.
Pioneer Corporation announced today that the company’s first internal BD/DVD writer with ATAPI connection for Windows PCs has recently been developed. The new Pioneer BDR-101A complies with the latest specifications for the BD-R (Blu-ray Disc recordable), BD-RE (Blu-ray Disc rewritable), and the BD-ROM (Blu-ray Disc read-only memory). It is expected to start shipping at the end of January, 2006*1.
Single-layer BD-R and BD-RE discs can store up to 25 gigabytes*2 of data, about five times more than a conventional DVD disc, supporting a high-speed data transfer rate of a maximum of 72Mbps (2x) for both reading and writing. It is possible to record over two hours of a high-definition (HD) video (at 24Mbps transfer rate) on a single disc. This level of storage capacity and transfer speed is expected to make possible a wide range of applications, such as server data backup and video storage.
For BD-ROM discs, a wide variety of Blu-ray Disc titles, including films, music, and games, will be released in the future. The BDR-101A Blu-ray Disc writer will write and read single-layer BD-R and BD-RE discs (without cartridge), and read single-layer and double-layer BD-ROM discs (without cartridge). Also, featuring proprietary Pioneer optical technology, such as the Ultra Dynamic Resonance Absorber and the Multi-Effect Liquid Crystal Tilt Compensator, the new writer will ensure high reliability in high-density recording and playback with Blu-ray Discs as well as DVD discs.
With the release of the BDR-101A offering the industry’s highest level of performance and reliability, Pioneer is responding to users requiring greater storage capacity, as well as contributing to the expansion of the Blu-ray writer market. Pioneer will continue to actively develop the Blu-ray disc format and promote its use as one of the Blu-ray Disc Founders. Pioneer will be exhibiting the BDR-101A at the 2006 International CES being held from January 5, 2006, in Las Vegas, USA. Visitors will be able to see the BDR-101A at both the Pioneer booth and the BDA*3 booth. Link
Single-layer BD-R and BD-RE discs can store up to 25 gigabytes*2 of data, about five times more than a conventional DVD disc, supporting a high-speed data transfer rate of a maximum of 72Mbps (2x) for both reading and writing. It is possible to record over two hours of a high-definition (HD) video (at 24Mbps transfer rate) on a single disc. This level of storage capacity and transfer speed is expected to make possible a wide range of applications, such as server data backup and video storage.
For BD-ROM discs, a wide variety of Blu-ray Disc titles, including films, music, and games, will be released in the future. The BDR-101A Blu-ray Disc writer will write and read single-layer BD-R and BD-RE discs (without cartridge), and read single-layer and double-layer BD-ROM discs (without cartridge). Also, featuring proprietary Pioneer optical technology, such as the Ultra Dynamic Resonance Absorber and the Multi-Effect Liquid Crystal Tilt Compensator, the new writer will ensure high reliability in high-density recording and playback with Blu-ray Discs as well as DVD discs.
With the release of the BDR-101A offering the industry’s highest level of performance and reliability, Pioneer is responding to users requiring greater storage capacity, as well as contributing to the expansion of the Blu-ray writer market. Pioneer will continue to actively develop the Blu-ray disc format and promote its use as one of the Blu-ray Disc Founders. Pioneer will be exhibiting the BDR-101A at the 2006 International CES being held from January 5, 2006, in Las Vegas, USA. Visitors will be able to see the BDR-101A at both the Pioneer booth and the BDA*3 booth. Link
Microsoft will decide the DVD format wars
Published by Admin on at 12/28/2005 10:04:00 AM.
PUNDITS taking bets on which next-generation high-definition DVD format will win acceptance - Blu-ray and HD-DVD - now think that it will be Microsoft that will decide.
According to the EE Times, the Vole is using its operating-system clout to bundle HD-DVD within Vista, the company's next-generation OS.
Microsoft is also offering er "cash incentives" to system vendors or retailers if they agree to support HD-DVD.
Vole is refusing to confirm or deny the reports and the EE Times seems to think that such aggression has caught the Blu-ray advocates on the hop.Link
According to the EE Times, the Vole is using its operating-system clout to bundle HD-DVD within Vista, the company's next-generation OS.
Microsoft is also offering er "cash incentives" to system vendors or retailers if they agree to support HD-DVD.
Vole is refusing to confirm or deny the reports and the EE Times seems to think that such aggression has caught the Blu-ray advocates on the hop.Link
Pioneer to launch Blu-ray optical drive in January
Published by Admin on 27.12.05 at 12/27/2005 09:48:00 PM.
The drive will go on sale in Japan at the end of January, provided that two licensing issues are resolved, and is scheduled to be available in the U.S. during the first quarter of 2006.
The BDR-101A drive is compatible with noncartridge, single-layer recordable BD-R and rewritable BD-RW discs, and single and dual-layer read-only BD-ROM discs, the company said. It is also compatible with a wide range of DVD-based media and can write DVD-R and DVD-RW discs, Pioneer said.
The company plans to initially offer the product direct to Japanese PC makers for inclusion in their desktop computers and systems and will later expand sales to other countries, said Akira Muneto, a spokesman for Pioneer in Tokyo. PCs on the market boasting Blu-ray Disc support could appear in the first half of 2006, he said.
The drive will have an ATAPI interface that delivers a data transfer rate of 33MB/sec., Muneto said. It is a standard "half-height" size, measures 14.8mm wide by 42mm high by 198mm deep and weighs 1.1 kilograms.
The company did not specify pricing for the drive or plans to sell it direct to consumers.
Pioneer is the first optical disc drive maker to announce a shipping date for such a product, although the company's January schedule may be derailed by a delay in the licensing of the content management system or the Blu-ray Disc logo, it said.
The inability of the companies behind the Advanced Access Content System (AACS) content management system to complete their work has already caused Toshiba Corp. to put launch plans for its HD-DVD player on hold. The AACS group is made up of a number of companies from the electronics and content industries. The group's founders include IBM, Intel Corp., Microsoft Corp., Matsushita Electric Industrial Co. (Panasonic), Sony Corp., Toshiba Corp., The Walt Disney Co. and Warner Brothers.
The group has declined several requests for an interview or comments about when the first version of its format will be completed.
The CES runs in Las Vegas from Jan. 5 to Jan. 8. Link: Link
The BDR-101A drive is compatible with noncartridge, single-layer recordable BD-R and rewritable BD-RW discs, and single and dual-layer read-only BD-ROM discs, the company said. It is also compatible with a wide range of DVD-based media and can write DVD-R and DVD-RW discs, Pioneer said.
The company plans to initially offer the product direct to Japanese PC makers for inclusion in their desktop computers and systems and will later expand sales to other countries, said Akira Muneto, a spokesman for Pioneer in Tokyo. PCs on the market boasting Blu-ray Disc support could appear in the first half of 2006, he said.
The drive will have an ATAPI interface that delivers a data transfer rate of 33MB/sec., Muneto said. It is a standard "half-height" size, measures 14.8mm wide by 42mm high by 198mm deep and weighs 1.1 kilograms.
The company did not specify pricing for the drive or plans to sell it direct to consumers.
Pioneer is the first optical disc drive maker to announce a shipping date for such a product, although the company's January schedule may be derailed by a delay in the licensing of the content management system or the Blu-ray Disc logo, it said.
The inability of the companies behind the Advanced Access Content System (AACS) content management system to complete their work has already caused Toshiba Corp. to put launch plans for its HD-DVD player on hold. The AACS group is made up of a number of companies from the electronics and content industries. The group's founders include IBM, Intel Corp., Microsoft Corp., Matsushita Electric Industrial Co. (Panasonic), Sony Corp., Toshiba Corp., The Walt Disney Co. and Warner Brothers.
The group has declined several requests for an interview or comments about when the first version of its format will be completed.
The CES runs in Las Vegas from Jan. 5 to Jan. 8. Link: Link
DVD Battery Packs Being Recalled
Published by Admin on at 12/27/2005 09:47:00 PM.
Lynchburg, VA - If you received a new portable DVD player for Christmas, listen up. Petters Consumers Brands is recalling about 165,000 battery packs used with Polaroid brand portable D-V-D players.
Petters says the battery can overheat and melt the plastic case while it's recharging. No injuries have been reported, but there have been several reports of the cases melting and smoking. Link: Link
Petters says the battery can overheat and melt the plastic case while it's recharging. No injuries have been reported, but there have been several reports of the cases melting and smoking. Link: Link
AO-DVD - 40 to 100 times more capacity than a standard DVD
Published by Admin on 24.12.05 at 12/24/2005 11:13:00 PM.
Earlier this year Iomega was awarded a patent in the nano-technology and optical data storage area.
The US Patent No. 6,879,556 titled Method and Apparatus for Optical Data Storage is the first in a series of nano-technology-based subwavelength optical data storage patents sought by Iomega. The patent covers a novel technique of encoding data on the surface of a DVD by using reflective nano-structures to encode data in a highly multi-level format. This technology, termed AO-DVD (Articulated Optical - Digital Versatile Disc), allows more data to be stored on a DVD and could allow future optical discs to potentially hold 40-100 times more information with data transfer rates 5-30 times faster than today's DVDs, and at similarly low costs. This invention was recently recognized as a winner of the Nanotech Briefs' Nano 50 awards in its product category. The Nano 50 awards are given to the "best of the best" in the industry - the innovative people and designs that will move nano-technology to key mainstream markets.
Iomega is working to investigate the commercial feasibility of this format and other nano-structural data encoding formats. One possibility being investigated, termed NG-DVD (Nano-Grating - DVD), uses nano-gratings to encode multi-level information via reflectivity, polarization, phase, and reflective orientation multiplexing. Iomega is concurrently evaluating and developing appropriate partners to leverage this intellectual property for producing commercial data storage devices.
"Subwavelength optical data storage can provide an array of mechanisms by which the state of a focused spot of light upon reflection can be precisely changed. This is the key to new commercially interesting multi-level optical data storage that this technology represents," commented Fred Thomas, Chief Technologist, Research and Development, Iomega Corporation. "The nano-replication technologies that are used to fabricate these structures at low-cost are just emerging from various labs. I believe the scope of Iomega patents issued and pending in this area, in conjunction with these exciting new nano-replication technologies, will make this a fertile area for optical data storage development and innovation for years to come. As high definition content becomes more pervasive, Iomega sees significant technology partnership and licensing opportunities for this intellectual property." Link
The US Patent No. 6,879,556 titled Method and Apparatus for Optical Data Storage is the first in a series of nano-technology-based subwavelength optical data storage patents sought by Iomega. The patent covers a novel technique of encoding data on the surface of a DVD by using reflective nano-structures to encode data in a highly multi-level format. This technology, termed AO-DVD (Articulated Optical - Digital Versatile Disc), allows more data to be stored on a DVD and could allow future optical discs to potentially hold 40-100 times more information with data transfer rates 5-30 times faster than today's DVDs, and at similarly low costs. This invention was recently recognized as a winner of the Nanotech Briefs' Nano 50 awards in its product category. The Nano 50 awards are given to the "best of the best" in the industry - the innovative people and designs that will move nano-technology to key mainstream markets.
Iomega is working to investigate the commercial feasibility of this format and other nano-structural data encoding formats. One possibility being investigated, termed NG-DVD (Nano-Grating - DVD), uses nano-gratings to encode multi-level information via reflectivity, polarization, phase, and reflective orientation multiplexing. Iomega is concurrently evaluating and developing appropriate partners to leverage this intellectual property for producing commercial data storage devices.
"Subwavelength optical data storage can provide an array of mechanisms by which the state of a focused spot of light upon reflection can be precisely changed. This is the key to new commercially interesting multi-level optical data storage that this technology represents," commented Fred Thomas, Chief Technologist, Research and Development, Iomega Corporation. "The nano-replication technologies that are used to fabricate these structures at low-cost are just emerging from various labs. I believe the scope of Iomega patents issued and pending in this area, in conjunction with these exciting new nano-replication technologies, will make this a fertile area for optical data storage development and innovation for years to come. As high definition content becomes more pervasive, Iomega sees significant technology partnership and licensing opportunities for this intellectual property." Link
High-Definition DVD’s To Require Costly Upgrades
Published by Admin on at 12/24/2005 11:12:00 PM.
If you dropped a bundle on a high-end computer display or HDTV, you could be in for an unpleasant surprise when you slip your new high-definition DVD of Star Wars: Episode III into your Windows Vista PC. Vista, the next version of Windows that's slated to appear in about a year, will feature a new system wide content protection scheme called PVP-OPM. If your monitor doesn't work with PVP-OPM, all you'll likely see is either a fuzzy rendition of your high-def flick or Hollywood's version of the Blue Screen of Death--a message warning you that the display has been 'revoked'.
Forthcoming Blu-ray and HD-DVD discs promise higher resolution than a standard DVD's 480-line maximum. But to protect its high-quality content from pirating, the film industry, along with disc and hardware makers, has created an umbrella content protection scheme known as AACS. If Windows is to play the new discs, Microsoft has little choice but to support AACS, which is where PVP-OPM comes in. According to Microsoft, PVP-OPM will prevent pirates from attaching recording devices directly to the PC graphics card's DVI or HDMI video outputs in order to capture a pristine digital copy of the disc's otherwise encrypted content. A related component, PVP-UAB, will prevent savvy computer owners from installing data capture cards in order to grab high-def movies straight off the PCI Express bus. Link
Forthcoming Blu-ray and HD-DVD discs promise higher resolution than a standard DVD's 480-line maximum. But to protect its high-quality content from pirating, the film industry, along with disc and hardware makers, has created an umbrella content protection scheme known as AACS. If Windows is to play the new discs, Microsoft has little choice but to support AACS, which is where PVP-OPM comes in. According to Microsoft, PVP-OPM will prevent pirates from attaching recording devices directly to the PC graphics card's DVI or HDMI video outputs in order to capture a pristine digital copy of the disc's otherwise encrypted content. A related component, PVP-UAB, will prevent savvy computer owners from installing data capture cards in order to grab high-def movies straight off the PCI Express bus. Link
Microsoft says no to HD-DVD and Xbox 360
Published by Admin on at 12/24/2005 11:11:00 PM.
In a bid to quash rumours that it might be planning to launch Xbox 360 consoles next year with built-in HD-DVD drives, Microsoft has categorically stated to the IGN website that 'There are currently no plans to release an Xbox 360 equipped with a next generation DVD player'.
This statement runs counter to hints dropped previously by Bill Gates himself and Yoshihiro Maruyama from Xbox's Japanese division, and could be caused by concern that some people might be holding off from buying current Xbox 360s in the hope that future ones might ship with next-gen DVD built in. Link
This statement runs counter to hints dropped previously by Bill Gates himself and Yoshihiro Maruyama from Xbox's Japanese division, and could be caused by concern that some people might be holding off from buying current Xbox 360s in the hope that future ones might ship with next-gen DVD built in. Link
Sorry for the lack of updates
Published by Admin on at 12/24/2005 11:07:00 PM.
Its been rather hectic around here, so will try to get back into the regular posting after chrsitmas / new year. Also looking at including some major content to bolt on to the site.
Also if any websites related to our site would like to exchange links, then send a email to mail [at] this domain. :)
Also if any websites related to our site would like to exchange links, then send a email to mail [at] this domain. :)
Toshiba may delay HD DVD launch - again
Published by Admin on 13.12.05 at 12/13/2005 03:56:00 PM.
According to the company, it has "completed the design of HD DVD players for the US and Japanese markets and are ready for volume production at our manufacturing facilities in Japan".
And here's the 'but': "Toshiba will only launch its HD DVD products after AACS is finalised.... Under these circumstances, Toshiba plans to launch HD DVD players and notebook PCs with HD DVD drives in Japan promptly following the implementation of AACS into hardware and software products." Link:
And here's the 'but': "Toshiba will only launch its HD DVD products after AACS is finalised.... Under these circumstances, Toshiba plans to launch HD DVD players and notebook PCs with HD DVD drives in Japan promptly following the implementation of AACS into hardware and software products." Link:
TDK ships Blu-ray disks
Published by Admin on at 12/13/2005 03:55:00 PM.
TDK said its bare type cartridge less BD-R and BD-RE disks have entered the channel, so there must be players around too.
The four types are BD-R (write once), BD-RE (rewritable) and they come in 25GB and 50GB densities, the difference being that two are single layer and two are double layer.
TDK said that the disks will be coated with something called Durabis Two, specially "formulated" for Blu-ray. Link:
The four types are BD-R (write once), BD-RE (rewritable) and they come in 25GB and 50GB densities, the difference being that two are single layer and two are double layer.
TDK said that the disks will be coated with something called Durabis Two, specially "formulated" for Blu-ray. Link:
Sony's DVDirect Recorder Burns DVD Discs Without a Computer
Published by Admin on 9.12.05 at 12/09/2005 10:49:00 AM.
Sony's forthcoming VRD-MC1 DVD recorder allows burning your home videos and photos directly onto DVD media, without the need for a computer.
Like the presently available VRD-VC20 model, the new VRD-MC1 recorder can transfer home video footage in real-time from a camcorder or VCR tape to a DVD without a computer, and also enables "computer free" recording of digital still images directly from memory cards to DVD as a slideshow for playback on most home DVD players and PC DVD-ROM drives.
The new recorder can also be directly connected to PictBridge compatible photo printers for printing individual digital pictures from a memory card or from a DVD disc.
One side of the new DVDirect model incorporates digital and analog video/audio inputs, enabling direct connection of a camcorder or VCR to transfer tape-based videos to DVD. On the other side, it sports slots for five of the most popular digital camera memory cards.
For home video transfers, the VRD-MC1 includes a digital video (DV) input (i.LINK/FireWire/IEEE 1394) that allows for quick video transfers from a digital camcorder, including full camcorder control from the DVDirect recorder in synchronized recording mode. It also has analog S-Video and Composite Video inputs.
Link
Like the presently available VRD-VC20 model, the new VRD-MC1 recorder can transfer home video footage in real-time from a camcorder or VCR tape to a DVD without a computer, and also enables "computer free" recording of digital still images directly from memory cards to DVD as a slideshow for playback on most home DVD players and PC DVD-ROM drives.
The new recorder can also be directly connected to PictBridge compatible photo printers for printing individual digital pictures from a memory card or from a DVD disc.
One side of the new DVDirect model incorporates digital and analog video/audio inputs, enabling direct connection of a camcorder or VCR to transfer tape-based videos to DVD. On the other side, it sports slots for five of the most popular digital camera memory cards.
For home video transfers, the VRD-MC1 includes a digital video (DV) input (i.LINK/FireWire/IEEE 1394) that allows for quick video transfers from a digital camcorder, including full camcorder control from the DVDirect recorder in synchronized recording mode. It also has analog S-Video and Composite Video inputs.
Link
Fujifilm introduces Labelflashâ„¢ DVD Disc
Published by Admin on at 12/09/2005 10:48:00 AM.
Fujifilm's new Labelflash technology should allow the creation of striking monochrome images on compatible DVD discs. Photographers could use this system to create high quality personalised discs for their porfolio, or any application where a professional looking finish is required.
Fujifilm UK Press Release;
Fuji Magnetics GmbH today announced that the Fujifilm DVD-R 1X-16X optical media for Labelflashâ„¢ technology would be available in the European market in early December. This new technology is jointly developed by Yamaha Corporation and Fuji Photo Film Co., Ltd. Labelflashâ„¢ technology advances the ability to burn high quality images directly into a specialised dye layer on the disc labelling side using laser for data recording. This technology allows consumers to personalise and customise their DVDs with photos, text and graphics, replacing traditional sticker and marker labelling. These new discs are also compatible with the latest 1X-16X speed for data writing as well.
Labelflashâ„¢ technology allows a consumer to burn pictures and/or write titles on the label side of the DVD discs specially developed for the Labelflashâ„¢ system with DVD writers with Labelflashâ„¢ function. There is no need for printers and consumables for printing. To obtain high resolution and high contrast pictures in blue and silver colour, a consumer only needs to turn the disc upside down and insert it into the drive again after recording data. The unique technology burns the image 0.6mm deep into the media in as little as five minutes, creating a more stable and permanent image than traditional printable media that uses the top layer of a disc for labelling. Link
Fujifilm UK Press Release;
Fuji Magnetics GmbH today announced that the Fujifilm DVD-R 1X-16X optical media for Labelflashâ„¢ technology would be available in the European market in early December. This new technology is jointly developed by Yamaha Corporation and Fuji Photo Film Co., Ltd. Labelflashâ„¢ technology advances the ability to burn high quality images directly into a specialised dye layer on the disc labelling side using laser for data recording. This technology allows consumers to personalise and customise their DVDs with photos, text and graphics, replacing traditional sticker and marker labelling. These new discs are also compatible with the latest 1X-16X speed for data writing as well.
Labelflashâ„¢ technology allows a consumer to burn pictures and/or write titles on the label side of the DVD discs specially developed for the Labelflashâ„¢ system with DVD writers with Labelflashâ„¢ function. There is no need for printers and consumables for printing. To obtain high resolution and high contrast pictures in blue and silver colour, a consumer only needs to turn the disc upside down and insert it into the drive again after recording data. The unique technology burns the image 0.6mm deep into the media in as little as five minutes, creating a more stable and permanent image than traditional printable media that uses the top layer of a disc for labelling. Link
Next gen games just too darn large for DVD's?
Published by Admin on at 12/09/2005 10:47:00 AM.
ext, there had been rumour upon rumour about what the heck will actually settle to be next gen standard and what will be pushed aside in the search for all things new.
One thing that confused a few people was Microsoft's decision not to use Blue Ray or HD-DVD as a format, but to stick with a vanilla DVD format. People said this might not hold enough data and it seems they were right. Rumours and unspecified reports are stating there is a 360 game in the works that uses FOUR 9GB dual layer DVD's. Fanboys have stated it could be Halo 3, but this is ludicrous as no Halo game has ever lasted more than 20 hours in single player and would not need that sheer amount of space. Besides, Halo 3 has not even been officially announced yet. Link
One thing that confused a few people was Microsoft's decision not to use Blue Ray or HD-DVD as a format, but to stick with a vanilla DVD format. People said this might not hold enough data and it seems they were right. Rumours and unspecified reports are stating there is a 360 game in the works that uses FOUR 9GB dual layer DVD's. Fanboys have stated it could be Halo 3, but this is ludicrous as no Halo game has ever lasted more than 20 hours in single player and would not need that sheer amount of space. Besides, Halo 3 has not even been officially announced yet. Link
Zoran begins sampling DVD recorder on a chip
Published by Admin on at 12/09/2005 10:47:00 AM.
Zoran Corp. has begun to sample the Activa 200, an advanced DVD player/recorder system-on-a-chip that integrates the DVD read/write front-end and back-end functions.
Zoran (Sunnyvale, Calif.) developed the Activa 200 chip with a fully digital, optimized DVD recordable front end technology (read/write channel, servo, data processor, CPU), integrated with the audio/video back-end functions (MPEG decode/encode CPU, analog video decoder/encoder, and progressive scan output) on a single system-on-a-chip (SoC).
Zoran also developed the companion Activa 250 analog front-end chip as an RF signal processing solution, optimized to work with the most popular optical pickup units (OPUs) and loader mechanisms.
The Activa 200 and Activa 250 are the main components of a complete turnkey chipset for DVD recording. The solution includes an easy to use graphical user interface, enabling consumer electronics manufacturers to achieve lower overall product development cost and shorter time-to-market for DVD recorder products.
Zoran (Sunnyvale, Calif.) developed the Activa 200 chip with a fully digital, optimized DVD recordable front end technology (read/write channel, servo, data processor, CPU), integrated with the audio/video back-end functions (MPEG decode/encode CPU, analog video decoder/encoder, and progressive scan output) on a single system-on-a-chip (SoC).
Zoran also developed the companion Activa 250 analog front-end chip as an RF signal processing solution, optimized to work with the most popular optical pickup units (OPUs) and loader mechanisms.
The Activa 200 and Activa 250 are the main components of a complete turnkey chipset for DVD recording. The solution includes an easy to use graphical user interface, enabling consumer electronics manufacturers to achieve lower overall product development cost and shorter time-to-market for DVD recorder products.
Blu-Ray will win next-gen DVD battle
Published by Admin on at 12/09/2005 10:45:00 AM.
The co-chairman of Fox Filmed Entertainment has thrown his company's not insubstantial weight behind Sony's Blu-Ray disc format, telling a conference in the USA that it will win the standards battle against Toshiba's HD-DVD.
James Gianopulos was speaking at Reuters' Advertising and Media summit in New York last week, where he told delegates that Fox will not be releasing any of its content on the rival HD-DVD format.
He explained that a number of factors conspired to give Blu-Ray a market lead, even though neither company has actually brought a product to market yet and will not do so until next year.
"In terms of the number of companies involved, the PS3 momentum and the level of content that is committed to Blu-Ray, it does seem to have a pretty strong lead," Gianopulos told the summit.
"We believe that Blu-Ray not only has the superior technology and backing in terms of strength to market, but also the superior content protection," he concluded. Link
James Gianopulos was speaking at Reuters' Advertising and Media summit in New York last week, where he told delegates that Fox will not be releasing any of its content on the rival HD-DVD format.
He explained that a number of factors conspired to give Blu-Ray a market lead, even though neither company has actually brought a product to market yet and will not do so until next year.
"In terms of the number of companies involved, the PS3 momentum and the level of content that is committed to Blu-Ray, it does seem to have a pretty strong lead," Gianopulos told the summit.
"We believe that Blu-Ray not only has the superior technology and backing in terms of strength to market, but also the superior content protection," he concluded. Link
Sony DRX-810UL
Published by Admin on at 12/09/2005 10:42:00 AM.
Sony's 810 series of DVD burners are designed for consumers wanting to store and share home movies, digital photos and music, as well as businesses needing to deploy DVD video-based training and share large files. The internal DRU-810A drive comes with an ATAPI interface for installation inside a PC and includes a black replacement bezel for those with black-coloured PC cases, while the external DRX-810UL reviewed here sports an attractive vertical design (can also be used horizontally).
Until we actually see a final appearance of blue laser-based media such as HD-DVD and Blu-ray, DVD burners keep getting better, faster and cheaper. Sony Electronics has once again raised the bar on the DVD recording speed front with the introduction of its 10th generation of DVD burners. Available in two versions, the internal DRU-810A (Best Current Prices: £44.20/$65) and external DRX-810UL (Best Current Prices: £94.95/$132) support 8x DVD+R Double Layer (DL) recording speed, and can burn up to 8.5GB of video, data, music or images on compatible media in about 15 minutes. As expected from Sony, the DRX-810UL looks good too, with a wholly silver plastic enclosure, reflective drive door and clear plastic stand.
In terms of specifications, the DRX-810UL (52x164x250mm) is up there with best. In writes at 4x to DVD-R DL media, 16x DVD±R, 8x DVD+RW, 6x DVD-RW, 48x CD-R and 32x CD-RW. The drive also ships as standard with both USB 2.0 and i.LINK (FireWire) interfaces, so you needn't have to make a decision at the point of sale. The drive comes bundled with a feature-rich software package suite from Nero for burning, authoring and editing home movies, creating digital scrapbooks, and backing up critical data. Link
Until we actually see a final appearance of blue laser-based media such as HD-DVD and Blu-ray, DVD burners keep getting better, faster and cheaper. Sony Electronics has once again raised the bar on the DVD recording speed front with the introduction of its 10th generation of DVD burners. Available in two versions, the internal DRU-810A (Best Current Prices: £44.20/$65) and external DRX-810UL (Best Current Prices: £94.95/$132) support 8x DVD+R Double Layer (DL) recording speed, and can burn up to 8.5GB of video, data, music or images on compatible media in about 15 minutes. As expected from Sony, the DRX-810UL looks good too, with a wholly silver plastic enclosure, reflective drive door and clear plastic stand.
In terms of specifications, the DRX-810UL (52x164x250mm) is up there with best. In writes at 4x to DVD-R DL media, 16x DVD±R, 8x DVD+RW, 6x DVD-RW, 48x CD-R and 32x CD-RW. The drive also ships as standard with both USB 2.0 and i.LINK (FireWire) interfaces, so you needn't have to make a decision at the point of sale. The drive comes bundled with a feature-rich software package suite from Nero for burning, authoring and editing home movies, creating digital scrapbooks, and backing up critical data. Link
Blu-ray or HD-DVD?
Published by Admin on 2.12.05 at 12/02/2005 11:57:00 AM.
On the 20th Century Fox studio lot in Los Angeles, not far from a larger-than-life mural of Julie Andrews, arms outstretched atop the lyrical hills from ``The Sound of Music,'' the studio screened what it hopes will be another blockbuster.
This time, it's not a movie but a technology that it and other studios and electronics companies tout as the successor to DVD. It's called Blu-ray and it plays high-definition movies in resolution so sharp, you can inspect Johnny Depp's eyeliner in ``Pirates of the Caribbean.''
The screening Tuesday was the first in a series of high-profile events to introduce the Blu-ray format. Electronics makers are expected to unveil a new generation of Blu-ray players next month at the Consumer Electronics Show in Las Vegas, with promises of movies and devices in stores next year.
But before you race out to be the first in your neighborhood with a Blu-ray player, a word of caution. Blu-ray remains locked in a format war with another consortium of companies backing a rival (and, naturally, incompatible) technology called HD-DVD. The format war even divides the tech powerhouses of Silicon Valley: Intel backs HD-DVD, while Apple and Hewlett-Packard support Blu-ray. Link
This time, it's not a movie but a technology that it and other studios and electronics companies tout as the successor to DVD. It's called Blu-ray and it plays high-definition movies in resolution so sharp, you can inspect Johnny Depp's eyeliner in ``Pirates of the Caribbean.''
The screening Tuesday was the first in a series of high-profile events to introduce the Blu-ray format. Electronics makers are expected to unveil a new generation of Blu-ray players next month at the Consumer Electronics Show in Las Vegas, with promises of movies and devices in stores next year.
But before you race out to be the first in your neighborhood with a Blu-ray player, a word of caution. Blu-ray remains locked in a format war with another consortium of companies backing a rival (and, naturally, incompatible) technology called HD-DVD. The format war even divides the tech powerhouses of Silicon Valley: Intel backs HD-DVD, while Apple and Hewlett-Packard support Blu-ray. Link