Press Releases - PX-712 & 8X DVD Media

Plextor launches fastest DVD Re-Writer in the world - New dual format 12x DVDRW drive with high-speed media to match

CeBit 2004, Hannover, March 2004 - Hall 21 Stand A12 - Plextor today announces that at CeBit 2004 it will be launching the fastest DVD Re-Writer drive available in the world- the 12-speed PX-712A. Available in both white and black bezels, the internal E-IDE (ATAPI), dual format +/- RW drive is capable of writing an entire DVD disc in just six minutes.

At the same time, Plextor is also announcing its new high speed DVD media. The 4.7GB capacity, 120 minute discs are available in both + and - R formats. While the discs are rated as 8x, the +R discs are capable of writing at 12x using the new PX-712A drive. The DVD+R discs are available in a 25-disc spindle or a 5-pack including jewel cases and the DVD-R discs are available in just the 5-pack with jewel cases.

Inge Spoelders, International Marketing Responsible at Plextor, says: "We are delighted to be the first company to offer a 12x DVD Re-Writer in the market. Plextor's second internal dual format drive to date, the PX-712A offers significant performance improvement over 8x or 4x drives and is compatible with a wide range of media."

Equipped with an 8MB buffer, the drive has the following DVD reading/writing specifications:

• DVD+R: 12x, DVD+RW: 4x, DVD-ROM: 16x
• DVD-R: 8x, DVD-RW: 4x, DVD-ROM: 16x

• CD-R: 48x, CD-RW: 24x, CD-ROM: 48x

The PX-712A uses several technologies to prevent Buffer Underrun errors including Buffer Underrun Proof for CD, Lossless Linking for DVD+R/RW and Zero Link for DVD-R/RW. It is also able to format while writing through the 'Background Formatting' function.

For the highest quality writing at an optimal speed, Plextor has included its unique PoweRec (Plextor Optimised Writing Error Reduction Control) technology that helps to avoid writing errors during high-speed recording.

Plextor's VariRec (Variable Recording) technology, designed for audiophiles, is also included, enabling the user to select one of eight tone settings to obtain a more personalised sound.

The PX-712A comes with an extensive software package:

• Ahead Nero: CD/DVD mastering software
• Ahead InCD: Packet writing software
• Pinnacle Studio 9: Video editing and authoring software
• Cyberlink Power DVD: DVD player software
• PlexTools Professional: CD/DVD utility software

The PX-712A will be available from early May 2004. It comes with a 2 year warranty and free of charge On-Site Collect & Return service for defective drives (within warranty). Local hotline support is also available.

The 8x DVD+R media will be available in April 2004 and the 8x DVD-R will be available in May.

Retail package contents:

• PX-712A
• 1 E-IDE (ATAPI) cable
• Extensive software package
• 16 language manual

• Wide CD-R, CD-R/W, DVD+R/RW and DVD-R/RW media compatibility
• Easy Firmware upgrade through FlashROM
• Black tray to reduce ‘jitter’, increasing the quality of the burned DVD/CD
• Optimised PCB circuit to reduce noise and get a higher quality DVD/CD

About Plextor

Plextor is one of the leading global manufacturers of high reliability, high performance personal storage devices in the market. It is also one of the original pioneers of CD technology and through its parent company, Shinano Kenshi Co. of Japan, has a history stretching back to 1918 of developing and manufacturing advanced technology hardware and precision electronic equipment.

With headquarters in Japan, Europe and USA, Plextor's products are mainly sold through a network of specialised computer distributors. Plextor Europe, based in Brussels Belgium, handles sales, marketing and technical support for the European, Middle East and African markets. Since opening its Brussels office in 1994, Plextor has introduced a number of award winning products, including:

• CD/DVD-ROM Drives
• CD/DVD Recordable drives
• CD/DVD media
• USB Flash Memory Drives (PlexFlash)

For further information about Plextor, please contact: