I-O Data released the HDS2-UT USB 3.0 external RAID enclosure. It is available in three variants with pre-installed hard drives: the 2 TB HDS2-UT2.0, 4 TB HDS2-UT4.0, and 6 TB HDS2-UT6.0. Measuring 90 x 135 x 176 mm, and weighing 2.2 kg, the HDS2-UT is a 2-bay external 3.5" SATA HDD enclosure, with the ability to run its two drives in RAID 0, RAID 1, and JBOD modes. To take advantage of RAID 0, the enclosure connects to the host over 5 GT/s USB 3.0 SuperSpeed interface. Also included is software to build, manage, and monitor RAID volumes. The enclosure relies on an external power brick. Slated for market release in late-April, the HDS2-UT 2 TB, 4 TB, and 6 TB variants are priced at 35,490 JPY (US $439); 46,725 JPY (US $578); and 66,780 JPY (US $827), respectively.

I-O Data unveiled a new USB 3.0 host card (model: USB3-PEX2S), which is designed to be server-grade, with out of the box support for Windows Server, including USB 3.0 SuperSpeed support for Windows 2003, 2003 R2 64-bit/32-bit; Windows 2008, and 2008 R2 64-bit/32-bit. The low-profile capable card provides two USB 3.0 SuperSpeed ports, and appears to be driven by a Renesas-made chipset. It connects to the system bus over PCI-Express 2.0 x1, and draws auxiliary power from a SATA power connector. Slated for market launch in late-April, the USB3-PEX2S from I-O Data is priced at 3,885 JPY (US $48).

I-O Data began shipping the SSDN-3T120B solid-state drive. Originally manufactured by Toshiba, the SSDN-3T120B is a 120 GB drive in the 2.5-inch SATA 6 Gb/s form-factor, with sequential speeds of 480 MB/s (reads), 350 MB/s (writes); and random-access speeds of 440 MB/s (reads), 340 MB/s (writes), with 4K random seek performance of 73,000/58,000 IOPS (read/write). Its pricing is open to the retailers.

I-O Data introduced the BRP-U6C line of portable Blu-ray drives. Capable or reading quad-layer and triple-layer (Blu-ray XL) discs at 4X speed, the drives read single and double-layer Blu-ray discs at 6X speed, and BD-RE at 2X. Apart from that, DVD±R discs are read at speeds of up to 8X, and CDs at speeds up to 24X. These drives are available in three color options, Pearl White (BRP-U6C), Piano Black (BRP-U6CK), and Oriental Red (BRP-U6CR). Measuring 140 x 147 x 19 mm (WxHxD), weighing about 300 g. The drives are bus-powered. Available now, the BRP-U6C from I-O Data is priced at 11,500 JPY (US $139).

I-O Data of Japan introduced a new value 8 GB DDR3 memory module (model: DY1333-8G). The module runs at JEDEC-specified speeds of DDR3-1333 MHz, with 9-9-9-24/CR-1T timings, with 1.5V module voltage. The module is sold standalone, and in 16 GB dual-channel kits (model: 8GX2 DY1333). It features standard 240pin UDIMM dimensions, without any heat-spreaders. The single-module kit is priced at 18,060 JPY (US $217.2), while the dual-channel kit goes for 35,280 JPY (US $424.4).

In addition to the LCD-MF242E, I-O Data unveiled the LCD-MF234XPBR, LCD-MF234XBR, and LCD-MF224XBR. These monitors are cousins of the LCD-MF234XPGBR launched in February, except that they feature anti-glare (matte) screens. The LCD-MF234XPBR packs a 23-inch anti-glare IPS panel, with 1920x1080 pixels resolution, response time as low as 8 ms (with Overdrive), 80,000:1 DCR and 1,000 static contrast ratio, 250 cd/m² maximum brightness, and 178 degree viewing angles. It measures 546 x 174 x 409 mm (WxDxH). Its price is estimated to be around 21,800 JPY (US $260.4).

The LCD-MF234XBR also packs a 23-inch panel, albeit TN-film. It has the same exact dimensions as the LCD-MF234XPBR, and the same 1920x1080 pixels resolution; but with panel specifications of response time as low as 2 ms (5 ms typical), and 170/160 degree viewing angles. The contrast ratios and maximum brightness are identical to those of the LCD-MF234XPBR. This screen goes for an estimated 19,800 JPY (US $236.5). Then there's the LCD-MF224XBR, which is a 21.5-incher, otherwise with the same exact specifications as the LCD-MF234XBR. It measures 511 x 164 x 371 mm, and costs an estimated 17,800 JPY (US $212.6). All three models feature dual-HDMI, DVI, and D-sub inputs; and 3W stereo speakers.

Following on Buffalo's footsteps, I-O Data is coming up with its own internal optical drive capable of writing Blu-ray discs at up to 14x speeds. Dubbed BRD-S14X, the burner in question takes up one 5.25-inch bay, it has SATA connectivity, 4 MB of buffer memory, and offers writing speeds of 14x for BD-R SL (single-layer), 12x for BD-R DL, 6x for BDXL (3/4-layer), 2x for BD-RE, 16x for DVD-R/+R, 8x for DVD-R/+R DL/+RW, 6x for DVD-RW, 5x for DVD-RAM, 48x for CD-R and 24x for CD-RW.

The BRD-S14X comes with a one-year warranty and costs $162. Availability is slated for March 31st.

Japanese firm I-O Data has today unveiled a new addition to its monitor line-up, the LCD-MF242E widescreen which features a 23.6-inch LED-backlit (TN) panel, a native resolution of 1920 x 1080 pixels, a 5 ms response time, and the ECO power-saving function.

I-O Data's monitor also has a maximum brightness of 300 cd/m2, a 1,000:1 contrast ratio (5,000,000:1 DCR), D-Sub, DVI and HDMI inputs, and two 2 W speakers. The LCD-MF242E is backed by a three-year warranty and will go on sale in mid-April at about $237.

I-O Data's monitor offering will soon be expanded through the release of the LCD-MF274XVBR, a 27-inch widescreen featuring LED backlighting and a VA (Vertical Alignment) panel offering 178/178 degree viewing angles.

The new monitor also has a native resolution of 1920 x 1080 pixels, 300 cd/m2 maximum brightness, a 5,000:1 contrast ratio (80,000:1 DCR), a 12 ms response time (7 ms when overdrive is activated), two 1.5 W built-in speakers, Renesas' Neo Clear Resolution single-frame ultra-high-resolution technology, D-Sub, DVI, dual HDMI ports, an ECO mode, and a stand allowing for height, tilt and swivel adjustment.

The LCD-MF274XVBR is backed by a three-year warranty and will go on sale at the end of this month at about $442.

I-O Data introduced the CFU-IV line of CompactFlash cards for IPCs. These cards are built with a guaranteed operational temperature range as wide as -40°C to 85°C. The model launched today provides 256 MB of storage, and is driven by TDK GBDriver controller that minimizes write errors. The card conforms to CF Type I specifications. Backed by a 1 year warranty, the CFU-IV256 will be priced around US $110. It is also available in 128 MB, 1 GB, and 2 GB variants.

For the end of March I-O Data has planned the release of a new external hard drive line, the HDPC-UT Series. The upcoming HDDs measure 75 (W) x 112 (H) x 14 (D) mm, they weight 160 grams, have a USB 3.0 interface, and will be available in three color versions - silver/gray, black/blue and Bordeaux/brown.

The HDPC-UT drives are backed by a one-year warranty and come in 500 GB (~ $146) and 1 TB (~ $199).

I-O Data unveiled the 20-inch LCD-AD202X, and 21.5-inch LCD-MF222E series of desktop monitors (pictured in that order, below). Both screens have 16:9 aspect ration, and feature native resolutions of 1600 x 900 and 1920 x 1080, respectively. Both monitors target mainstream market-segments, and use conventional TN-film panel with LED backlighting. The LCD-MF222E, apart from its full-HD resolution, features 250 cd/m² maximum brightness, 1,000:1 contrast ratio (5,000,000:1 DCR), and 5 ms response time. This screen takes input from HDMI, DVI, and D-Sub. The screen also packs 2W stereo speakers.

The LCD-AD202X, apart from its 1600 x 900 resolution, packs similar panel specifications, including 1,000:1 contrast ratio, 250 cd/m² maximum brightness, and 5 ms response time. Both monitors are available in two color options, white and black. The LCD-AD202X is priced at 15,800 JPY (US $201), and the LCD-MF222E at 18,800 JPY (US $239).

For the end of this month I-O Data has planned the release of a new widescreen monitor, a 23-inch model called LCD-MF234XPGBR which features LED backlighting, an IPS panel with 178/178 degree viewing angles, and a native resolution of 1920 x 1080 pixels.

I-O Data's upcoming display also has a 14 ms response time (8 ms when overdrive is activated), a maximum brightness of 250 cd/m2, a contrast ratio of 1,000:1 (80,000:1 DCR), two 1.5W speakers, an ECO mode that saves power, and D-Sub, DVI, and HDMI (x 2) connectors. The LCD-MF234XPGBR is set to cost about $347.

I-O Data unveiled its latest home and small business NAS server, the LANDisk HDL-Z2WSLP. This model, measuring 102 x D216 x 150 mm (WxDxH), is powered by what some would argue as being overkill for a 2-bay NAS, the Intel Atom D510 (1.66 GHz), and is driven by Microsoft Windows Server 2008 R2 operating system pre-configured to run headless. The OS can also be loaded with anti-virus software so you could free up system resources on other machines that pool user data on this device.

It also doubles up as a small network and print server, as it's equipped with five USB 2.0 ports, and a further two eSATA 3 Gb/s ports to expand its storage using external enclosures. Out of the box, it comes with 2 TB of capacity brought about by two 2.5-inch 1 TB hard drives. The disk trays, support both 2.5-inch and 3.5-inch drives. It has two gigabit Ethernet network connections. Common protocols such as CIFS (SMB), HTTP, FTP, WebDAV, are supported. Slated for February, the I-O Data HDL-Z2WSLP will be priced at 120,540 JPY (US $1,542).

I-O Data introduced as many as twelve price-cuts to its HDPC, HDPN, and HDPV series portable hard drives, some of which take advantage of the USB 3.0 SuperSpeed interface. Interestingly, all these price-cuts are related to just the 500 GB capacity. HDPC-AU500 on average got its price cut from ¥12,500 (US $162.25) to ¥10,600 ($137.5); HDPN-U500B and HDPV-UT500 from ¥14,600 ($189.5) to ¥12,500 ($162.25). The HDPC-AU500/TB got its price cut from ¥13,600 ($176.5) to ¥11,500 ($149).

Japanese company I-O Data launched its latest TB-PW series of secure USB flash drives, that feature native 128-bit AES data encryption. The drives use USB 2.0 interface, and comes in capacities of 4 GB and 8 GB; and color options of black and blue. The drives stick to the "slider" form-factor, leaving you with no cap to lose. They are slated for availability in early 2012. I-O Data did not give out pricing information.

DisplayLink, the leading provider of technology for virtual and USB-connected computing, and I-O DATA DEVICE (www.iodata.com) today announced the availability of the I-O DATA USB-RGB3/D USB 3.0 to DVI display adapter. Incorporating the DisplayLink DL-3100 chip for connectivity and virtual graphics, it is the first USB 3.0 enabled display adapter to ship in Japan.

"And this is as true in Japan as any other technology-embracing market."

Featuring the robust DisplayLink 3.0 video compression and support for resolutions up to 2048 x 1152, including 1080p, even the newest notebooks, netbooks and PCs can enjoy the benefits of multi-screen computing. And with the throughput of SuperSpeed USB 3.0, those monitors will display high-performance, full-screen HD video, 3D games, rich 2D graphics and multi-channel audio.

I-O Data of Japan released the new TB-3NT line of trendy new USB 3.0 flash drives. Available in capacities of 8 GB, 16 GB, and 32 GB; TB-3NT drives come in three color options, black, pink, and white. The drives use a typical detachable cap design, and measure 18.0 (W) x 69.4 (D) x 7.6 (H) mm, weighing 9 g. The drive is said to run optimally on USB 3.0, though the company did not give out transfer speed figures. It is backwards compatible with USB 2.0. The 8 GB variant is priced at 1880 JPY (US $24.5), the 16 GB at 3280 JPY ($42.75), and 32 GB at 6980 JPY ($91).

Japanese company I-O Data unveiled its latest portable Blu-ray drive, the BRP-U6XE, which is capable of writing the new BDXL format, with disc capacities of up to 100 GB. Measuring 137 x 154 x 20 mm, the drive relies entirely on USB 2.0 for its connectivity. Its USB cable is built into it, and is retractable. Corel WinDVD BD3D and Nero Express Essentials come bundled.

The drive is capable of burning single and double layer BD-R discs at 6X, triple and quadruple layer (BDXL) BD-R discs at 4X, BD-RE at 2X, DVD-R/+R and DVD+RW at 8X, DVD-R/+R double-layer and DVD-RW at 6X, DVD-RAM at 5X, CD-R at 24X, and CD-RW at 16X. Backed by a one-year warranty, the I-O Data BRP-U6XE is priced at about $233.

Japanese manufacturer Green House unveiled its latest portable solid state drive (SSD), the GH-SSDE-U3A. Measuring 79 (W) x 137.5 (D) x 12.5 (H) mm, and weighing 141 g, the drive is inherently more tolerant to mechanical shocks than portable hard drives. It uses the USB 3.0 SuperSpeed interface, with a single cable drawing power from the host, and providing 5 Gb/s interconnect bandwidth.

The Green House GH-SSDE-U3A provides respectable transfer rates of 220 MB/s reads, and 180 MB/s writes, and comes in capacities of 64 GB, 128 GB, and 256 GB. It uses MLC NAND flash memory chips, while its controller isn't known. The drive's body is completely made of metal, powder-coated matte-black. Backed by a one-year warranty, the Green House GH-SSDE-U3A will reach stores by the end of this month. Its price, however, is still under the wraps.

I-O Data released two new value SATA 3 Gb/s SSDs, the SSDN-SV128 and SSDN-SV64, which as the model number might suggest, are 128 GB and 64 GB in capacity, respectively. The drives offer random read speeds of 143 MB/s, and random write speeds of 206 MB/s. While not much is known about what is the NAND flash type or controller used, it is mentioned that the drives support the TRIM garbage collection feature. Backed by a one-year warranty, the SSDN-SV64 and SSDN-SV128 will be available in Japan for ¥12,800 (US $158) and ¥24,800 ($306), respectively.

I-O Data unveiled its latest PC display, the LCD-AD202XW-P. This 20-inch CCFL-illuminated widescreen uses a hardened glass panel that is resistant to scratches and fingerprints while continuing to have a glossy surface. With an aspect ratio of 16:9, the panel features a native resolution of 1600x900 pixels, 250 cd/m² maximum brightness, 1,000:1 contrast ratio, and response time of 5 ms. It takes input from DVI and D-Sub connectors. Other features include an Eco Mode that can bring about power savings of up to 42%; and 1W stereo speakers. Backed by a 3 year warranty, the I-O Data LCD-AD202XW-P is priced at $495.

Japanese peripherals company I-O Data unveiled its new BRD-U8S external optical disc writer that supports Blu-ray 3D. Making use of the USB 2.0 interface and backed by a 4 MB write cache, the drive can write single and double layer BD-R at 8x speeds, BD-RE at 2x, DVD±R at 16x, DVD±R double layer at 8x, DVD+RW at 6x, DVD-RAM at 12x, CD-R at 48x, and CD-RW at 24x. Measuring 158 (W) x 220 (D) x 50 (H) mm, the BRD-U8S weighs 1.2 kg. Slated for release in Japan next month, and backed by a 1 year warranty, the I-O Data BRD-U8S is expected to be priced at $233.

Japanese maker I-O Data unveiled three new storage products that make use of the USB 3.0 interface, including two portable hard drives, and one flash drive. The HDCA-UT is the larger portable hard drive that's more of an external HDD that stays on desktops for longer periods; the HDPC-AU with its compact form-factor is more portable. The HDCA-UT measures 39 (W) x 185 (D) x 120 (H) mm, weighing a little over 1 kg, and comes in capacities of 1 TB and 2 TB. The HDPC-AU comes in five colors: black, white, brown, blue, and red. It measures 75(W)x 112(D)x 14(H) mm, weighing 350 g. It comes in capacities of 320, 500, 640, and 750 GB. Lastly, there's the TB-XT flash drive, measuring 18.0(W) x 69.6(D) x 8.6(H) mm, and weighing 19 g, this drive is available in silver, black, and blue, in capacities of 8, 16, and 32 GB.

I-O Data unveiled its own external, and portable Blu-ray XL (BDXL) disc writer drive. This release comes shortly after Buffalo announced such a drive. The BRP-U6X from I-O Data measures 137(W)x 154(D)x 20(H) mm, weighing 620 g (incl. the 320 g AC adapter). It can burn 100/128 GB BDXL discs at speeds of up to 4X, and BD-R/R, DL and LTH discs at up to 6X speeds. And of course, the various kinds of DVDs and CDs can be burned at speeds typical of notebook disc burners. The drive connects to the host over a single USB 2.0 cable, it takes in power using an AC adapter. The drive is priced at 23,205 JPY (about US $284).