OCZ Technology Group, Inc., a leading provider of high-performance solid-state drives (SSDs) for computing devices and systems, today introduced release candidate firmware v1.4RC, which dramatically improves the performance of its Vertex 4 SATA 3.0 Series SSDs. Most notably, v1.4RC nearly doubles sequential write performance for lower capacity models, significantly boosts sequential read performance at low queue depths, and improves general performance under real-world workloads comprising mixed reads and writes.

Despite already achieving breakthrough levels of performance with its flagship Vertex 4, OCZ has taken aggressive strides to further distance itself from the competition and to maintain its undisputed leadership in SSD technology. Compared to Vertex 4's original firmware version v1.3, v1.4RC more than doubles sequential write performance of the 128GB model and boosts the 256GB model from 380MB/s to 465MB/s.  These dramatic gains were achieved through proprietary algorithms which orchestrate the sequence of physical NAND programming operations to ensure that each NAND device is optimally utilized at all times. For the mainstream user, entry-level capacities of Vertex 4 can now achieve nearly the same sequential write performance as the industry-leading 512GB model at a mere fraction of the cost.

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Mach Xtreme Technology Inc., a worldwide leader in top performance, high reliability and user friendly designed PC components, today unveiled the SATA MX-KATANA 6Gb/s Series SSD modules. Based on an innovative design, the sleek gum stick-sized modules deliver an enhanced mobile computing experience with much faster application loading, ultra-fast data access, shorter boot-ups, and longer battery life of today’s and future ultrabooks and netbooks with new type low-profile SATA 3.0 interface.

This series maintains the highest level of read and write performance though the life of the SSD. It supports DuraClass and DuraWrite technologies. DuraClass technology provides best-in-class endurance, performance and low power consumption. DuraWrite technology optimizes writes to the flash memory over conventional controllers increasing the overall endurance and reliability of the complete SSD module. In addition, highly intelligent wear leveling design optimizes longevity of this series. This SSD module is an ideal upgrade option from MacBook Air 2010 and 2011 stock SSD, making it a must have item for any serious Mac DIY enthusiast. The MX-KATANA 6Gb/s drive delivers best-in-class read and write speeds clocking in at up to 510MB/s read and 450MB/s write along with the stunning maximum of 60,000 IOPS, low power consumption and superior durability (2.0 million MTBF) compared to previous SATA 3Gb/s generation drives.

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May the 4th be with you! Mimoco, makers of the MIMOBOT collection of designer USB flash drives and MIMOMICRO card readers, is celebrating Star Wars Day (May the 4th… get it?!) with a limited edition release of the deadly Sith warrior, Darth Maul in a run of 504 units.

Star Wars Day was created by the Star Wars fan community to celebrate all things Star Wars, and with this limited edition Darth Maul MIMOBOT®, featuring his characteristic hooded cape, deadly double-bladed light saber, and fierce yellow grimace, Mimoco is more than ready to honor this holiest of days. There is no better time to revisit one of George Lucas’ most mysterious and compelling villains, especially following the theatrical release of Star Wars: Episode I The Phantom Menace 3D.

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Today, CDRLabs brings you a review of LG's new portable 6x Blu-ray Disc rewriter, the BP40NS20. The stylish and compact Super Multi Blue drive is capable of 6x BD-R, 6x BD-R DL and 2x BD-RE writing speeds and a maximum BD-ROM read speed of 6x. It also offers support for BDXL media, which can hold up to 128GB of data on a single disc. Last, but not least, the BP40NS20 offers support for Millenniata's M-DISC technology which uses an inorganic rock-like material to provide up to 1000 years of permanent data storage.