History (1992): Maxoptix WORM RXT-HD Packs 2.5GB Compressed

Using an integrated data compression engine, the new RXT-HD disk drive from Maxoptix (San Jose,CA) compresses an average 2.5GB of data on standard 5.25-inch WORM cartridges.

The unit features maximum transfer rates of 768KB/s.

It uses a Ricoh mechanism and a Stac Electronic coprocessor circuit for its core data compression technology.

“The RXT-HD packs as much as 15.6GB per cartridge when storing black and white images such as photos or X-rays,” said Rich Jorgensen, Maxoptix’ product manager.

The drive is backwards compatible with Maxoptix’ RXT-800 WORM drives.

Suggested list price for the Maxoptix RXT-HD is $3,995 for a single unit. The RXT-HD is also available in a safety approved external enclosure, which includes a power supply and fan, for $4,995. The drives are available since July 1992, and carry a one-year warranty.

This article is an abstract of news published on the former paper version of Computer Data Storage Newsletter on issue ≠54, published on July 1992.