Toshiba Storage Device Division (SDD) introduced its half-terabyte 5,400 RPM, Serial-ATA (SATA) 3.0 Gb/s 2.5-inch HDD with a number of enhanced features that improve the user experience in mobile applications, as well as other digital devices.

Available in capacities from 500GB to 120GB, the super-quiet and durable MKxx55GSX series is targeted for integration into notebook PCs, sub-notebooks, small form factor and energy star PCs, game consoles, printers and external storage devices.

This new family raises the bar in acoustic performance for mainstream high-capacity HDDs.  Advanced servo techniques combined with mechanical design changes minimize noise emanating from the MKxx55GSX drives, making them nearly inaudible during operation, with some models performing close to the threshold of human hearing. 

In addition, optimizations in mechanics and servo design have boosted the durability of the series with operating shock tolerance matching the highest levels available on the market today.  To further protect user data against potentially hazardous external events, free-fall sensor (FFS) options are available on the new MKxx55GSX series.  Toshiba’s state-of-the-art FFS technology enables the HDD to respond to drop events, providing additional protection to mobile devices if they are disturbed during operation. 

 “With a number of value-added technology features, this new 2.5-inch HDD series addresses the need for capacity and durability in mobile applications, while enhancing the overall user experience by minimizing noise from the storage component,” said Maciek Brzeski, vice president of marketing at Toshiba Storage Device Division. “The acoustic performance renders these HDDs nearly inaudible, which is ideal for home entertainment applications, while the durability features appeal to mainstream mobile PC users.  This family of products offers a comprehensive storage solution for integration into a wide range of applications.”