Philips, a leader in optical storage technology, will start shipping EasyWrite enabled CD-RW/DVD-ROM drives in April 2002. The first drive in the Philips portfolio – the RWDV1610B - is targeted at PC assemblers. This drive is the first to include EasyWrite functionality - based on Mount Rainier specifications - making CD-writing simple, fast and robust for data storage at personal computers. The RWDV1610B drive with EasyWrite ‘on board’ combines the simplicity of a floppy disk, large storage capacity of CD and robustness needed for frequent data interchange and distribution. This ultimate floppy replacement offers considerable added value to business and home PCs. Its functionality makes traditional CD-writing pale by adding three new dimensions.

Three new dimensions

First, EasyWrite is simple. With EasyWrite compatible software, PC operating systems will recognize an EasyWrite drive in the computer or one attached as an external drive. Even better, with EasyWrite, end users can instantly drag and drop data or files to a normal CD-RW disc. No special disc is required. And in the future PC operating systems will recognize an EasyWrite drive without special software.

Second, EasyWrite is fast. The drive with EasyWrite on board handles formatting in the background so you’re not interrupted by long delays.

Third, EasyWrite is robust. Thanks to its sophisticated defect management system, there is less sensitivity to media wear and scratches than with other current CD rewriting technology.

With its 16x10x40 CD-R/RW and 10x DVD-ROM performance, the RWDV1610B offers mainstream functionality. It holds additional value for PC assemblers by combining CD-ROM, CD-RW, DVD-ROM and floppy disk functionality all in one single drive. The RWDV1610B is sold in bulk to PC assemblers for integration in their PC systems.

EasyWrite is based on the Mount Rainier specifications. Only CD-RW drives that comply with the stringent rules of EasyWrite are allowed to use the EasyWrite logo.