(click image for larger view)

Pioneer BDR-206MBK HD BDXL Blu-ray Disc Drive

The BDR-206MBK writer is the first BDXL drive for Windows-based personal computers to read and write using the new multi-player recordable BD format, the consumer electronics maker said.

"BDXL more than doubles the current maximum Blu-ray disc storage capacity and is ideal for various commercial uses such as video and broadcast archiving and storage, capturing and playback of high-definition programming, or data archiving needs,'' the company said. Recording accuracy is also enhanced with the BDR-206MBK and artificial noise is further limited to produce quality playback, according to Pioneer.

BDXL provides up to 128 GB of storage capacity on a quadruple-layer disc by integrating additional layers to traditional BDs. Users can read/write BD-R XL and BD-RE XL triple layer (100 GB) and BD-R XL quadruple layer (128 GB) discs with the new drive. Virtually all disc formats, including CD, DVD, and BD are supported for recording and playback on the BDR-206MBK. The drive has a SATA interface and also comes bundled with Cyberlink software to support BDXL and can be used right out of the box. Additionally, a piece of BD-R XL 100-GB media is included with each drive for a limited time, Pioneer said.

The company said it has integrated proprietary technologies to enhance recording and playback quality, including Limit Equalizer, which improves radio frenquency signals generated when reading data from BDs. To protect the disc from contaminants and dust particles, the BDR-206MBK has a new airtight structure as well as a Disc Vibration Stabilizer feature, which protects it from warping during the writing process, according to Pioneer.

Sony Optiarc America also unveiled next-generation BD rewritable drives last month. The BDR-206MBK BDXL drive retails for $199.

Network Computing has published an in-depth report on deduplication and disaster recovery. Download the report here (registration required).