LaCie has announced an online, CD sharing solution, the GigaCD product line. The GigaCD allows networked users to access a number of CDs (think car CD changer), with high data transfer rates. According to LaCie:
LaCie has announced the availability of its new GigaCD line of network CD solutions. With the LaCie GigaCDBox and GigaCDTower, every user on the network will have fast access to data from online CDs. Because the LaCie solution is a Network Attached Storage (NAS) device, it can be connected directly to an organization's Ethernet network with a RJ45 connector. No server or software installation are necessary.
Data from 27 full CDs (650 MB each) can be shared across the network, up to 90 CDs if they contain an average of 200MB, as is typical. The GigaCDBox includes 1 CD-ROM drive and an 18GB hard disk. For larger applications, LaCie offers the GigaCDTower, which features 6 CD-ROM drives and an 18GB hard disk.
Fast: Each CD is copied onto the hard disk. The benefit is a dramatically improved access time (9ms compared to 120ms). Users can access data instantly and simultaneously. At the same time, network traffic is reduced.
Simple: Unlike CD jukebox systems, there are no complex or fragile robotics to maintain and no need for complicated specialized software. GigaCD devices can be easily attached to an Ethernet network. The GigaCDBox sells for less than one third the price of a 100CD jukebox and yet is much faster. The GigaCDBox/GigaCDTower is plugged into the network, installed and ready to use in minutes.
From any standard Web browser, users can:
- copy the data from the CD to the disk
- erase part or all of a CD
- set passwords and access rights
Broad Compatibility: The GigaCDBox and GigaCDTower are compatible with most operating systems: NetWare, UNIX, OS/2, Windows 95/98/NT, DOS and Macintosh. GigaCD products are Y2K-compliant. Each device recognizes a wide variety of formats including High Sierra, ISO 9660, RockRidge extension, Joliet, multi-session discs with ISO header and UDF discs.
