WD Delivers World’s Highest Capacity ePMR HDDs to Meet Growing Nearline Demand

More than just storage, Western Digital HDDs are key enablers for businesses looking to optimize their infrastructure, lower TCO and future-proof their data strategies. Constantly innovating to meet the needs of our data-driven world, Western Digital (NASDAQ: WDC) today announced that it is now shipping the world’s highest capacity UltraSMR HDD with up to 32TB1 leveraging the time-tested, reliable energy-assisted PMR (ePMR) recording technology for hyperscalers, CSPs and enterprises. For those who want a drop-in ready HDD for today’s data-intensive workloads, the company is also now shipping the world’s highest-capacity ePMR CMR HDD with up to 26TB for enterprise and channel customers. With the world’s first commercially available 11-disk design and field-proven technology, these new drives reinforce Western Digital's commitment to delivering HDD technology that raises the bar on capacity, reliability and innovation.

The AI Data Cycle has emerged as a growth driver for the storage industry. As AI systems become more sophisticated, they process and generate vast amounts of data that must be stored efficiently. HDDs play a crucial role in this ecosystem, handling both the input side, where data is gathered, ingested and stored, and the output side, where AI content is generated and preserved. This dual role positions HDDs as a linchpin in the AI Data Cycle, ensuring that data is available when needed and stored with the lowest TCO.

Western Digital’s newest 26TB CMR and 32TB UltraSMR drives utilize multiple technological innovations to enable data centers to maximize their storage efficiency. In addition to ePMR, OptiNAND™, ArmorCache™ and a triple-stage actuator (TSA), the drives feature the world’s first commercially available 11-disk platform along with other design enhancements. Read: Innovating to 11: Western Digital Increases HDD Capacity, Not Size.

32TB Ultrastar® DC HC690 SMR HDD – Western Digital continues to lead the industry in SMR adoption, driving innovation to deliver superior storage capacity while lowering TCO. Now shipping, Western Digital’s Ultrastar DC HC690 UltraSMR HDDs with up to 32TB capacities support customer goals for cost-effective deep content storage at scale. These new HDDs have up to 257 MiB/s sequential performance and use as little as 5.5W power idle, making them ideal for warm and cold tiers of data.

26TB Ultrastar DC HC590 CMR HDD – – Now shipping, Western Digital’s newest CMR drives are a drop-in replacement for continued capacity growth with a reliable, field-proven technology foundation. This latest generation of drives delivers unbeaten CMR capacity, seamless qualification, easy integration and rapid adoption while maintaining superior dependability and reliability. The Ultrastar DC HC590 26TB CMR HDD features a sustained transfer rate of up to 288 MiB/s and utilizes as little as 5.6W power while idle.

Ultrastar Data60, Data102 Hybrid Storage Platforms – The new Ultrastar HDDs are being qualified and integrated into the company’s Ultrastar Data60 and Data102 JBOD hybrid storage platforms, which are high-density, scalable storage solutions that are ideal for modern data centers, private clouds, and big data analytics. These platforms provide flexible configurations, accommodating up to 60 or 102 HDDs, and can deliver up to 3.26PB of raw capacity. Key technologies like IsoVibe™ and ArcticFlow™ ensure reduced vibration and optimized cooling, resulting in better performance and reliability. Availability will begin by year-end.

26TB WD Gold® SATA HDDs - Specifically designed for system integrators and resellers, new 26TB WD Gold HDDs are now available in the channel. Leveraging innovations from the Ultrastar HDD technology platform, the WD Gold 26TB HDD provides a no-compromise storage solution that incorporates our latest innovations to handle heavy, continuous read-write workloads in the toughest of enterprise and commercial system environments. With a five-year limited warranty2 supporting up to 2.5M hours MTBF3 (projected), WD Gold drives provide the utmost in storage performance, reliability, durability and flexible capacity for small and medium businesses and design professionals whose mission-critical data and creative output are essential to their success.

“With the rise of AI, edge computing, and large-scale data centers, HDDs play a critical role in delivering huge capacity, performance and low power, making them indispensable for enterprises that want the highest storage density with the lowest TCO,” said John Chen, Vice President at TRENDFOCUS. “With the addition of the new 11-disk platform, Western Digital is well-positioned to continue to drive key HDD use cases – optimizing virtually all users in all markets for success in today’s data-intensive landscape.”

“Our CMR and UltraSMR technology isn't just breaking records—it’s giving customers the efficiency and TCO benefits they’ve been asking for, and we’re not done yet,” said Ravi Pendekanti, SVP of Product Management, HDD Business Unit, Western Digital. “By delivering the industry’s highest ePMR capacities available today, we are ensuring that our customers have the storage efficiency, scalability, reliability and unmatched value they need to stay ahead.”

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PNY: Powering Innovation in Graphics and Data Solutions

Founded in 1985 in New York, PNY Technologies has become a trusted name in the technology industry, providing innovative products and solutions across multiple sectors. 

As an American company with a strong global presence, PNY—which stands for Paris, New York—has carved out a niche in digital imaging, computer graphics, and data storage. The company's name reflects its origins, as the founder initially conducted business in both Paris and New York before establishing PNY Technologies in 1985. Over the years, PNY has continued to deliver cutting-edge technology, competing with some of the biggest players in the market.

PNY's partnership with NVIDIA began in 2006, marking a significant milestone in the company’s growth. Initially focused on the sales and distribution of Quadro professional graphics cards, PNY played a key role in bringing workstations, cloud servers, and data center systems to the U.S. and European markets. This strategic collaboration has been essential in positioning PNY as a leader in professional graphics solutions.

PNY's Growth and Global Expansion

Over the years, PNY has grown beyond its American roots to establish a significant global footprint. The company's commitment to quality and innovation has led to milestones such as the establishment of its European headquarters in 1994 and its Asia-Pacific headquarters in 2003. With offices in key regions such as Dubai, Japan, and Australia, PNY has shown a consistent drive to expand its operations and meet the needs of customers worldwide.

Strategic Partnership with GeForce: A Turning Point

In Q4 of 2021, PNY reached a significant milestone by becoming an Authorized Add-in Card (AIC) partner for NVIDIA GeForce, marking its official entry into the exclusive group of manufacturers producing NVIDIA's high-performance graphics cards. This partnership highlights PNY’s commitment to delivering top-tier solutions for gamers, content creators, and professionals alike.

The partnership not only expanded PNY's product portfolio but also solidified its position as a key player in the competitive GPU market. In September 2022, PNY launched the GeForce RTX 40 series featuring Ada architecture, a product that underscored PNY's R&D capabilities and ability to stay at the cutting edge of technological advancements.

As an AIC partner, PNY adheres to NVIDIA’s strict standards for quality, performance, and design, enabling it to deliver reliable, high-performance GPUs that cater to a wide range of users, from gaming enthusiasts to AI developers. Notably, during this period, another manufacturer announced its exit from the NVIDIA GeForce market, further positioning PNY as a strong contender in the space.

Competing with the Best: PNY as a Strong Alternative to CN/TW Brands

While the graphics card market is often dominated by well-known brands from China (CN) and Taiwan (TW), PNY provides a unique alternative that stands out in its American heritage and global quality standards. 

As a U.S.-based company, PNY offers a level of customer support and assurance that resonates with American consumers. PNY strikes a balance between performance, reliability, and accessibility, making it a preferred choice for those who value long-term product support and durability.

Moreover, PNY’s partnership with NVIDIA further solidifies its reputation as a trustworthy option for high-performance computing and gaming. PNY’s offerings in the GeForce lineup are often regarded for their quiet operation, compact design, and advanced cooling solutions, providing an excellent alternative to many of the high-profile brands dominating the market.

PNY's Continued Commitment to Excellence

As PNY continues to evolve, its American roots, global presence, and strategic partnerships highlight its ability to compete with top brands worldwide. Whether you're a gamer seeking the latest GeForce RTX 40 series GPU or a professional looking for reliable computing solutions, PNY offers a high-performance, well-supported alternative to CN/TW brands. With its longstanding commitment to quality and innovation, PNY remains a key player in the global technology industry.

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Razer Introduces the Razer Kraken V4 Pro Immersive Audio Control

Joining the recently launched Kraken V4 and Kraken V4 X, the Kraken V4 Pro with its pioneering OLED Control Hub, brings a new dimension of audio immersion and control, pushing the limits of what an immersive wireless gaming headset can offer. 

Engineered for Comprehensive Audio Control 

Our journey in developing the Kraken V4 Pro was driven by a singular vision: to create a headset that not only provides unparalleled sound but also gives gamers complete control over their immersive gaming experience.  

The centerpiece of this vision is the OLED Control Hub. Its design was inspired by audio amps and features an OLED display set at an ergonomic 20-degree angle. The Control Hub acts as a centralized command center directly at your fingertips, offering over 20 customization options. Manage audio and haptic settings, or home screen customization that includes the display of system metrics or even upload custom images and animations. 

Next-Generation Audio Immersion with Razer Sensa HD Haptics 

Razer takes haptic feedback beyond the norm with Sensa HD Haptics technology—offering an unparalleled ecosystem of full-body audio immersion that sets a new standard in gaming. Unlike anything else in the industry, Sensa HD Haptics enables synchronized cross-device haptic effects, turning every nuanced audio cue and gameplay action into precise, tangible sensations.

This technology is fully supported in major titles such as Hogwarts Legacy and the highly anticipated Silent Hill 2, significantly enhancing spatial awareness and the depth of gameplay. The inclusion of Sensa HD Haptics ensures that every whisper of wind or earth-shattering explosion is not just heard but profoundly felt, providing an unprecedented layer of immersion that brings you closer to the action than ever before. 

The ear cushions, crafted from specialized memory foam and protein leather, are meticulously selected to optimize haptic conductivity, ensuring every vibration is felt with unprecedented intensity. 

Pro-Grade Audio Drivers featuring THX Spatial Audio 

Rounding out the Kraken V4 Pro’s impressive feature set are the patented Razer TriForce Bio-Cellulose 40 mm drivers. These drivers have been upgraded to include a bio-cellulose diaphragm that enhances sound clarity while reducing distortion, delivering audio that’s both rich in bass and sharp in acoustics across a wider range of frequencies. 

With THX Spatial Audio, the Kraken V4 Pro offers advanced 7.1 surround sound, delivering realistic positional audio and expanding the soundstage. Additionally, with custom-tuned THX Game Profiles for over 60 popular titles, gamers can dive right into the action with tailored auditory settings that bring every detail to life. 

Unmatched Versatility Across All Platforms 

Understanding the diverse ecosystems gamers operate in today, we equipped the Kraken V4 Pro with multiple connectivity options. Whether you are gaming on a PC, PlayStation, Nintendo Switch, Steam Deck, or mobile device, the headset offers seamless integration. With Razer HyperSpeed Wireless for ultra-low-latency wireless audio, Bluetooth for on-the-go connectivity, USB Wired for an uninterrupted gaming, and a 3.5 mm jack for universal compatibility, the Kraken V4 Pro is truly a versatile headset designed to adapt to any setup. 

The OLED Control Hub further enhances versatility by connecting up to three audio sources simultaneously through two USB-C ports and one 3.5mm port, allowing for both 2.4GHz and Bluetooth audio to be used concurrently, with instant source input switching to effortlessly toggle between devices like PC and PlayStation. 

Crystal-Clear Communication 

The Kraken V4 Pro also features the Razer HyperClear Super Wideband Mic, also found on the award-winning BlackShark V2 Pro 2023, present here as a retractable microphone that captures a wider frequency range, ensuring your voice is broadcast with crystal clarity.

This mic setup ensures that every command is delivered with precision, essential for coordinating with teammates in a competitive setting. In addition, the sleek, flush design of the retractable microphone adds to the convenience and styling of the headset. 

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CORSAIR Launches XENEON 34WQHD240-C QD-OLED Gaming Monitor

CORSAIR® announced the launch of its XENEON 34WQHD240-C QD-OLED Gaming Monitor, which offers vibrant colors, true deep blacks, and enhanced brightness for stunning visuals. Featuring a sleek, slim panel with a contemporary white design, this WQHD display meets the needs of gamers and multimedia enthusiasts seeking a more immersive experience, as well as content creators demanding superb color accuracy.

The XENEON 34 QD-OLED uses the latest 2024 Samsung QD-OLED panel to bring a visually immersive experience to the popular 34-inch monitor size. The 21:9 cinematic aspect ratio and a curved 1800R display provide a wide viewing angle for gaming, multimedia, and productivity. With up to 1000-nit peak brightness and up to 99% DCI-P3 color gamut, it reveals an amazing level of detail in every image, from the brightest highlights to the gloomiest shadows, thanks to DisplayHDR True Black 400 and a up to 1,500,000:1 contrast ratio.

QD-OLED enhances response times and refresh rates, making the XENEON 34 QD-OLED an ideal partner for high-speed gameplay, whether it’s racing, FPS, or action games. With a refresh rate of up to 240Hz combined with an impressive response time of up to 0.03ms (GtG), the image on screen reacts to inputs faster than you can perceive. Support for both NVIDIA G-SYNC and AMD FreeSync Premium eliminates tearing while maintaining smooth motion clarity in fast-paced scenes.

The XENEON 34 QD-OLED features an on-screen display (OSD) proximity sensor that activates simply by reaching your hand near its bottom edge, making it easier than ever to interact with your monitor. The rear I/O design keeps cables and clutter in check while providing access to a high-performance array of advanced connectivity options.

The ergonomic stand design allows you to adjust the XENEON 34 QD-OLED to your preferred height (up to 100mm) and orientation with tilt (-7° to +15°) and swivel (+/- 30°), optimizing your desk space for a flexible setup with its 100 x 100mm VESA compatibility.

The XENEON 34 QD-OLED includes an array of burn-in prevention features, such as an image retention refresh after eight hours of use and an Orbit feature that shifts the entire image by one pixel every three minutes to minimize the risk of burn-in. All of this is backed by a comprehensive three-year Zero Dead Pixel and Zero Burn In warranty.

Able to display everything your PC can do at its best, the XENEON 34 QD-OLED showcases the amazing benefits of QD-OLED technology: vibrant colors, true deep blacks, superb color accuracy, and unparalleled contrast.

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DarkFlash Unveils DY470 ATX PC Case with Sleek Design and Superior Cooling Performance

DarkFlash has recently introduced the DY470 ATX PC case, designed to combine aesthetics with high-performance cooling. Inspired by the elegance of a finely cut diamond, this case features three ultra-transparent glass panels, offering a 330° panoramic view, making it perfect for showcasing internal setups and RGB lighting. Available in black and white, the DY470 can complement any gaming rig.

A Design That Demands Attention

The DarkFlash DY470 is nothing short of a masterpiece when it comes to design. Drawing inspiration from the facets of a finely cut diamond, this PC case boasts an exterior that reflects both luxury and elegance. Its striking visual appeal is further amplified by the three ultra-transparent glass panels, providing a 330° panoramic view of the PC's interior. For PC builders and gamers alike, the DY470 offers the chance to turn a standard rig into a visual centrepiece.

One of the biggest advantages of a glass PC case is the ability to showcase intricate internal setups, RGB lighting, and precise cable management. The DY470 makes it easy for users to display their components and lighting arrangements, creating an immersive gaming environment. The glass not only enhances the overall aesthetic but is also highly durable, offering scratch resistance and maintaining clarity for years to come. Whether you choose the bold black or the sleek white version, the DY470 provides a visually stunning option to complement any gaming setup. The black model brings a modern, powerful presence, while the white version offers a clean and minimalist aesthetic, perfect for those seeking a more refined look.

 

Unmatched Cooling and Airflow Capabilities

High-performance gaming and demanding workloads generate heat, and managing that heat is crucial to maintaining system performance. To meet the needs of gamers and PC enthusiasts, DarkFlash recommends users install INF34 ARGB Fans for cooling. These fans are not only visually striking but also feature Hydro Bearings, ensuring quieter operation and optimal cooling.

The DY470 takes cooling flexibility to the next level by supporting up to two 360mm radiators or ten 120mm fans, giving users complete control over their cooling setup. Whether you're building a high-performance gaming rig or a workstation, the case is engineered to handle intensive loads without sacrificing thermal performance. This extensive cooling capacity makes the DY470 an ideal choice for gamers looking to push their system to its limits without compromising on temperature control.

Designed for Functionality and Ease of Use

Beyond its eye-catching design, the DY470 ATX PC Case excels in offering features that enhance the overall user experience. One standout feature is its compatibility with back-connect ATX motherboards, which creates a clean, cable-free appearance. This innovative design approach simplifies cable management, making it easier to achieve a tidy, organized build.

Another key feature is the pre-installed adjustable GPU bracket, which offers stability for your graphics card while optimizing cooling. For users who prefer a more personalized setup, the DY470 allows for vertical GPU installation, improving both cooling performance and the visual appeal of the build. Additionally, the front I/O panel comes equipped with a USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-C port, delivering faster data transfer speeds and modern connectivity for external devices, ensuring that this case is future-proof and versatile.

Impeccable Attention to Detail

True to DarkFlash’s commitment to user convenience, the DY470 is designed to keep both its aesthetic and functional aspects in pristine condition over time. The case features a full coverage dust-proof design, complete with pull-out filters that protect internal components from dust accumulation. This thoughtful design reduces maintenance and helps ensure that your build continues to perform at its peak.

Moreover, the power supply chamber includes an elegant cable cover plate, which simplifies cable management while keeping the internal build looking clean and organized. Even for those who may not be experts in cable management, the DY470 ensures that the final build looks professional and polished.

DarkFlash: A Brand That Continues to Innovate

With the introduction of the DY470 ATX PC Case, DarkFlash continues to solidify its position as a leader in the PC hardware market. Known for its innovation, performance, and style, DarkFlash products are trusted by gamers and tech enthusiasts worldwide. From PC cases to advanced cooling solutions, DarkFlash consistently pushes the boundaries of what is possible in PC building.

The DY470 is more than just a PC case—it is a blend of art and engineering, designed to meet the needs of casual users and competitive gamers alike. Its combination of stunning aesthetics, superior cooling capabilities, and user-friendly functionality makes it the ultimate choice for anyone looking to build a high-performance gaming rig or workstation.

For more information about DarkFlash and the DY470 ATX PC Case, visit www.darkflash.com

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