February 1, 2003

Fastest external CD-RW drive
Taiwan-based ASUSTek Computer has launched the CRW-5224A-U external CD-RW drive, the world's fastest, featuring 52X write/24X rewrite/ 52X read, with USB2.0 interface supporting fast data connectivity at 480Mb/sec.

The CD-RW drive utilizes CAV writing strategy to significantly shorten recording time and achieve higher average recording speed. Statistics from the ASUS R&D lab demonstrated that with a maximum speed of 52X, the recording time for a full 650MB CD can be greatly reduced to less than 2.5 minutes.

The CD-RW employs unique ASUS technologies for cutting-edge storage capability: FlextraLink prevents buffer underrun problems and eliminates creation of unusable discs; and FlextraSpeed enhances accuracy and reliability when writing/rewriting across a broad range of certified media. Throughout the recording process, FlextraLink monitors the data buffer status, whereas FlextraSpeed monitors the recording media and sets the most effective writing speed to ensure top quality recording.

The CRW-5224A-U also features the patented ASUS DDSS II technology, which minimizes the vibration caused by spindle motors, components and PC cases. It stabilizes the pick-up head, both horizontally and vertically, achieving more precise tracking while reducing vibration and noise caused by high-revolution motors.

Global internet radio
The GlobalTuner InTune200 is a small portable radio that connects to a computer wirelessly, providing access to any music on the PC or to thousands of internet radio stations.

PDT, the Manchester-based company that developed the portable player, says it could be just the thing to persuade more people to sign up for high-speed internet services.

With the InTune you avoid having to sit at the PC to listen to MP3 music files or radio. It comes with a base unit that plugs into the USB socket on a computer. This unit uses a two-way wireless data link to send music and information from the computer to the radio.

If the PC is connected to the internet, you can listen to one of the thousands of internet radio stations. The InTune is scheduled to be released in the UK in April. The retail price is about £180.

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