Seagate Technology plc, a world leader in storage solutions, today announced the launch of Seagate Innov8, the world’s first USB-powered desktop hard drive. Seagate Innov8 features innovation from the inside out with its industry-leading 8TB capacity, trend-setting Ignition Boost Technology and expressive design.

There is still an abundance of consumer electronics that require an external power supply, placing a premium on power outlets. With advancements in USB 3.1 technology, major manufacturers like Apple® are beginning to rely on one connection-type for everything. Today, with the introduction of Seagate’s new Ignition Boost Technology, Innov8 is the world’s first 8TB desktop hard drive that does not need to be plugged into a power outlet. Similar to a standard car requiring a battery kick to start the engine, Ignition Boost together with USB 3.1 enables Innov8 to thrive off bus power. No dedicated power source or adapter required.

ASUSTOR Inc., a leading innovator and provider of network storage solutions, has announced the launch of two economical entry-level multimedia NAS devices in the AS3202T and AS3204T. This new series of devices utilizes the newest generation Intel Celeron 1.6GHz quad-core processors and are equipped with 2GB of dual-channel memory along with support for Intel AES-NI encryption instructions. This allows the devices to use hardware encryption technology to increase the overall performance and access speeds to large amounts of encrypted data while also satisfying user needs for high performance storage, backup, remote access and security.

The AS3202T and AS3204T both provide a rich variety of connection interfaces allowing users to connect various peripheral devices to the NAS to expand functionality. The HDMI port and infrared receiver can be paired with the ASUSTOR Portal App and official ASUSTOR remote control to turn the NAS into a multimedia player and hub that is as easy to operate as a TV. Also worth mentioning, is that the AS3202T and AS3204T both feature a stylish modern diamond plate finished exterior which allows it to seamlessly fit into users’ living rooms and be used in combination with existing Hi-Fi home entertainment systems. Users can centrally store all of their digital multimedia on the NAS (photos, music, movies) and play it all back on demand, enjoying a comprehensive home multimedia experience.

QNAP Systems, Inc. today released the world’s first M.2 SSD-based NAS - the TBS-453A NASbook. Featuring a quad-core Intel® processor and using M.2 SSDs for storage, the TBS-453A not only provides full NAS functionalities with RAID protection in an ultra-compact size, but can also act as a physical network switch and share network access with multiple users. With its compact, near-silent design, dual HDMI output, and 4K display, the TBS-453A NASbook can fit in anywhere to boost the productivity and connectivity of small offices.

"M.2 SSDs are now used in thin-and-light laptops and small-form-factor PCs. Remarkably small in size, they deliver high performance with zero noise and are expected to become more affordable as they become more popular," said Jason Hsu, Product Manager of QNAP, adding "In light of M.2 SSD’s benefits, we are proud to present the industry-first TBS-453A M.2 SSD NASbook to provide users with a portable yet versatile NAS.”

CDRLabs has taken an in depth look at OCZ's new TLC NAND-based SSD, the Trion 150. Designed to deliver a superior balance of performance, reliability and value, the Trion 150 is an easy and affordable way for entry-level users to enhance their mobile or desktop systems. Powered by the same Toshiba TC58 controller found in the Trion 100 and available with up to 960GB of the company's new 15nm TLC NAND flash, the drive is capable of 550MB/s read and 530MB/s write speeds for faster boot ups, file transfers, and system responsiveness. The Trion 150 is also optimized for lower energy consumption which translates into longer battery life to keep you up and running longer.