TDK makes 320GB Optical Disk

Yes, TDK Corp has made an optical disk that can store more data than a Bluray disk, or most small portable hard drives. The Disk itself has 10 layers, each containing 32GB each. The composition of the disks have been improved in order to combat the problem of a weakening signal, with the usage of multiple layers.

The first layer (L0) is made of an inorganic Si-Cu alloy, whereas the rest is a material made of bismuth peroxide and germanium dioxide. Apparently, TDK enhanced the transmittance by adjusting the density of germanium dioxide, as well as introduced materials which can lessen the damaging effects of heat.

The new medium will utilize the same laser found on Blu-ray

drives – a blue-violet semiconductor laser with an oscillation wavelength of 405nm and an objective lens with a numerical aperture (NA) of 0.85. The symbol error rate is said to be less than 10-4, which the company claims is commercially viable and the laser output is less than 30mw. The prototype will be showcased at CEATEC Japan 2009.

The uses of a 320GB disk are going to be debatable however, but, considering that Blu-Ray players might be able to support them, it’s going to be good for Movie Pirates, Wedding Cameramen, and hopefully, game developers.