Imation, Dell Ship First 500GB RDX Disk

Removable data storage maker Imation and PC maker Dell June 2 both launched the first 500GB native-capacity cartridge in their popular lines of RDX removable disk systems.
The RDX system is a low-end, tape-replacement data storage package designed to provide small and midsize businesses with easy-to-use and reliable backup, data security and expandable storage, a company spokesperson said.
The new 500GB cartridge is the largest available capacity for any RDX removable hard disk solution currently in use.
Imation and Dell compete in this market with Quantum’s GoVault and similar products from ProStor, Tandberg and Iomega.
In fact, both Imation and Dell license the product from ProStor, the OEM.

Promises Backup in Seconds, Not Hours

Each RDX disk cartridge houses a high-capacity mobile 2.5-inch hard disk drive in a shock-resistant design to allow the cartridge to sustain a fall from up to one meter without damage. The cartridge is inserted into a dock, which can be connected internally through USB or Serial ATA, or externally with USB.

The fast transfer rate of up to 45MB per second reduces the typical data backup window from hours to seconds, allowing the user to back up 150GB of data in less than an hour, the spokesperson said.
Unlike tape, which winds sequentially to read data, RDX systems access files in milliseconds, enabling instant data retrieval. Users can choose RDX cartridge capacities ranging from 80GB to 500GB.
The RDX system also includes EMC Retrospect software with government-certified 256-bit Advanced Encryption Standard encryption, the highest level of protection available.
Imation’s RDX Removable Hard Disk Cartridge will be available in June for a manufacturer’s suggested retail price of $549.99.