NEW LITE-ON EZ-DUB OPTICAL DRIVE GETS EXTERNAL FACELIFT

[Ian]

NEW LITE-ON EZ-DUB OPTICAL DRIVE GETS EXTERNAL FACELIFT, MAINTAINS SIMPLE TWO-BUTTON OPERATION FOR COPYING AND BACKUP

“Smart Write” Technology Combines Optimum Write Speed with Highest Quality

Fremont, CA. November 27, 2007 – Philips & Lite-On Digital Solutions (PLDS) USA, world leaders in optical storage solutions, announced today it has redesigned the exterior of its best-selling EZ-DUB optical drive to create a compact, more elegant appearance while maintaining all the features and functions that have made it a favorite among consumers and business professionals alike.

The new Lite-On DX-20A4PU EZ-DUB model distinguishes itself from other DVD writers with two new, and very distinct, “touch sensitive” buttons on the top of the unit marked “DUB” and “FILE.” These buttons, which glow neon blue when in operation, can be used as shortcuts to the most commonly used functions with most optical drives: DUB for duplicating a disc and FILE for backing up files from a computer.

“The new EZ-DUB is still the easiest way users can quickly duplicate discs or backup computer files but its elegant exterior also adds to the overall décor of an office or workstation,” says Christine Hsing, marketing manager at PLDS. “Functionally, the EZ-DUB drive uses SmartWrite technology to optimize write speed and disc quality for added time-saving operation.”

By following a few simple steps, users can make a duplicate disc or copy computer files to CDs or DVDs with greater ease and in less time. The new, high capacity / performance Re-Writable DVD Dual (+/-) format drive offers up to 8.5GB in Double-Layer capacity, adding ample and cost-effective storage to its fast and easy-to-use functions. In addition, the EZ-DUB DX-20A4PU provides a 20X DVD write speed and has a power-switch in the rear of the drive so users can turn off the drive when not in use. And with the use of the included stand, the drive can be mounted vertically to conserve space.

About PLDS

PLDS (Philips & Lite-On Digital Solutions) is a joint venture between Royal Philips Electronics and Lite-On IT Corporation that is responsible for the sales and marketing of Lite-On branded Optical Disc Drive (ODD) business. The combination of a strong R&D focus and access to enormous production capacity makes PLDS an industry leading company. PLDS is dedicated to excellence and devote best efforts to further expand innovative quality product offerings for the PC industry and strengthen its top global position in the ODD industry.

[Ian]

Has Lite-On already retired the 20A3 models? This one is a 20A4.

[Ian]

According to my info, this drive should write to DVD+RW DL media at 2.4x and DVD-RW DL media at 2x.

[carl]

Actually the 20A4 is very closely related to the 20A1. You can even flash the A1 to the A4. They use the same chipset. There is a thread at cdfreaks detailing all of this.

[Ian]

Any idea if the OPU is different?

[carl]

The OPU is different but so far I see no ill effects. If in fact the A4 can write + and - RW DL it will be interesting to see if a crossflashed A1 will.

[Ian]

I did some checking and they are different.

20A1 - Sanyo DS10H
20A4 - Sanyo DS18

Without double layer DVD+/-RW media, it probably won't make a difference though.

[ala42]

According to my info, this drive should write to DVD+RW DL media at 2.4x and DVD-RW DL media at 2x.

Do you know some +/-RW DL MIDs ?

[Ian]

Sorry, I don't. Doesn't that firmware at codeguys have some listed?

[ala42]

Sorry, I don't. Doesn't that firmware at codeguys have some listed?

Hard to say when you do not know what you are looking for . At least there is nothing new when looking for RICOH or MKM.

[Ian]

I checked last night and I didn't see anything for JVC either. They're the only company I know of that has DVD-RW DL media.