We do not need to wait on Toshiba 1.8 HDD
Hitachi HDD targets automotive applications
Posted : 17 Jan 2003
Hitachi Global Storage Technologies has introduced the Travelstar A4K20 HDD, which is targeted specifically for automotive applications, including car navigation and car audio products.
The 2.5-inch HDD has a storage capacity of 20GB, 9.5mm profile, and is configured on a one-disk, two-head design. It is screened for operation over the -20°C to 85°C temperature range.
Other features include glass media and load/unload technology in addition to shock sensor technology, which cushions the drive in less than ideal shock or vibration conditions. The A4K20 also incorporates fluid dynamic bearings (FDB) in the spindle motor to offer the same quiet operation and improved shock characteristics as with PC models, but offers higher reliability for automotive environments.
The A4K20 has a non-operating shock tolerance of 800G at 1ms and an operating shock tolerance of 100G at 11ms.
The company has also introduced the C4K40 1.8-in HDD that is suited for a host of mobile applications such as laptops, tablet PCs, and handheld PCs.
A member of the company's Travelstar Compact Series of products, the C4K40 is available with 40GB and 20GB capacities and has connector compatibility with the current 2.5-inch form factor, making it easy for product developers and manufacturers to transfer from 2.5-inch designs to 1.8-inch designs.
The device has a rotational speed of 4,200rpm, areal density of 67 billion bits/in², and is claimed to exhibit low power consumption in both idle and read operations. The single platter design has a 7mm profile and weighs 47g, while the 2-platter model has a 9.5mm profile and weighs 62g. It can withstands 300G(2ms) of operating shock, exhibits a latency time of 7.1ms, and has a transfer rate
