'HyDrive' Hybrid SSD/ODD Now Official

'HyDrive' Hybrid SSD/ODD Now Official

Hitachi and LG have officially announced the HyDrive, an optical drive/solid state disk (OD/SSD) combo unit for notebook computers. It fits into the spot normally occupied by an optical drive. The first generation drives will feature either 32GB or 64GB of NAND flash memory and a SATA 3.0Gbps interface.

The HyDrive can boost system performance in a number of ways. Windows and select programs can be installed on the HyDrive and the remaining space can be used as cache; alternatively, the entire SSD can also be used as a cache.

The companies claim the HyDrive boosted system performance in an optimized ASUS N61DA notebook by 30-60%.
The first generation HyDrives will be available starting August 2010 (Sept. 2010 internationally). Second generation HyDrives will enter mass production in March 2011; they will scale up to 256GB and feature a SATA 6.0Gbps connection. Pricing for the HyDrive has not been announced, though it should reportedly add about $200 on the price of a sub-$1,000 notebook.

Via (Engadget.com)