News

Matsushita (Panasonic) introduces Blu-ray Disc in Europe (20/3/2006)

Panasonic, the leading brand of Matsushita Electric Industrial Co., Ltd., today announced plans for the 2006 introduction of blank Blu-ray (BD) discs in Europe. The new discs will be avail-able in both 50GB and 25GB storage capacities which can be used on BD drives with 2X writing speed.

The following four models will be introduced in Europe this spring:

Model Number Specification
-LM-BE50DE Rewritable, 50GB, Single-Sided, Dual Layer
-LM-BE25DE Rewritable, 25GB, Single-Sided, Single Layer
-LM-BR50DE Write once, 50GB, Single-Sided, Dual Layer
-LM-BR25DE Write once, 25GB, Single-Sided, Single Layer

Models LM-BE50DE and LM-BR50DE utilize a dual layer structure to realize the large capacity of 50GBÑmore than ten times the capacity of conven-tional single-sided 4.7 GB DVD discs. This dual-layer technology was first introduced by Panasonic in the Japanese market in 2004 with 1x speed.

Among the main features of Panasonic's Blu-ray discs:

Dual layer technology Achieves 50 GB Capacity

A new layer stack technology allowed Panasonic to stack two recording layers, an intermediate layer, and a transparent cover layer into a thickness of only 0.1 mm. A recording film technology with high sensitivity and high transmittance made it possible to achieve the dual-layer structure, and a high-precision forming technology ensured that the intermediate layer has a uniform thickness throughout. These technologies combine to produce a Panasonic BD disc that features two recording layers with a capacity of 50 GB.

Spin-coated cover layer:

Panasonic BD discs also use an advanced spin coating process technology to form the cover layer with extremely uniform thickness. This is the key element for stable data recording.

A uniquely fabricated film for rewritable disc;

An originally developed, highly sensitive and durable recording film used for rewritable discs further enhances the stable recording and playback characteristics, of particular importance for PC use where data is frequently rewritten.

An inorganic material film for write once disc:

An inorganic material which is unaffected by light is utilized for a recording film of the write-once disc, which ensures safe and long-term storage of the data.

Hard-coated cover layer:

Newly-developed surface-treatment technology enables a sig-nificant boost in disc resistance to scratches and abrasions, ensuring high reliability and dura-bility even without a cartridge.

www.panasonic-europe.com