Original URL: http://www.channelregister.co.uk/2009/09/01/wd_2tb_caviar_black/
Caviar Black gets 2TB model
WD expands range upwards
Posted in Enterprise, 1st September 2009 12:02 GMT
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WD has uprated its four-platter, 2TB disk technology to 7200rpm with Caviar Black and WD-RE4 models.
This move was foreshadowed by leaks [1] from European resellers earlier this month. The first 3.5in 2TB products [2] from WD spun at 5,400rpm.
Capacities range from 500GB, through 640GB, 750GB and 1TB, up to 2TB. In the 2TB product, the read/write head has a two-stage actuator, with the second stage driven by piezo-electronic technology for more precise head-to-track positioning. Interestingly this is technology used by UK start-up DataSlide [3] in its hard rectangular drive technology.
In all models, except the 500GB and 640GB ones, the drive motor shaft is secured at both ends to reduce system-induced vibration. This so-called StableTrac technology helps stabilise the platters for more accurate tracking. Clearly, WD has been pushing the technology envelope out to get the reliable data access it needed.
There is a 64MB cache and WD says the drive has a couple of integrated processors for greater controller performance. The interface is 3Gb/s Sata, with no SAS interface mentioned.
The Caviar Black model is meant for gamers, high-end desktops and workstations. The WD-RE4 version, with its 1.2 million hours before failure rating, is for servers, network-attached storage (NAS) and storage area network (SAN) usage.
The Caviar Black 2TB GB (model WD2001FASS) drives are available now through WD distributors and resellers, with a manufacturer’s suggested retail price of $329 plus local VAT (£232.00). The RE4 2TB (model WD2003FYYS) drive is currently being qualified by OEMs. Both drives have a five-year limited warranty. ®