Iomega have introduced two dual-layer external DVD drives: the new Super DVD Writer 12x Dual-Format USB 2.0 Drive and the Super DVD QuickTouch. The two devices head up what Iomega describes as a new generation of External DVD recorders that can store up to 8.5GB on a single DVD+R double-layer disc. Iomega's Super DVD Writer 12x Dual-Format USB 2.0 Drive will support a variety of formats, including DVD+R and DVD-RW (12x write, 4x rewrite, and 16x read speeds), DVD-R and DVD-RW (8x write, 4x rewrite, and 16x read speeds), and CD-R and CD-RW (40x writer, 24x rewrite, and 40x read speeds).
The drive also features buffer underrun protection and comes with the Iomega DVD Solutions Wizard. Other bundled software includes Iomega Automatic Backup, Hotburn Pro, Sonic MyDVD video-editing software, and MusicMatch Jukebox, among others. The Super DVD Writer will ship on June 23, 2004, for an initial price of $249 (£136).
The Super DVD QuickTouch adds an MPEG-2 capture card for recording directly from a VCR or video camera, allowing consumers to start the recording process by pressing a button on top of the unit. The QuickTouch will retail for $329 (£180), and is due to ship on July 7, 2004.
There is one problem which may slow sales of Iomega's new devices: Dual-layer DVDs are not widely available -- in fact, they're nearly impossible to find.
According to Richard Giannini, Iomega product manager, the media should be available by the fourth quarter of 2004, with prices ranging from $10-$15 (£5.50-£7.75), with prices hopefully dropping as the media becomes more common.
