You're probably wondering why Apple didn't announce a 60GB iPod, and I guess this is why. Toshiba hasn't even begun mass production of these yet.

Toshiba Corporation will begin mass production of the "MK6006GAH," a 1.8" HD with the world's largest capacity at 60GB, in the third quarter of 2004. It is Open Price.

The size is 54 x 78.5 x 8mm (W x D x H), and it weighs 62g. Also set to be available is a 30GB "MK30006GAL" drive, with a weight of 51g and a 5mm thickness.

With a miniaturization of the head unit and an improvement of thin film media technology, the drive has achieved a 145Mbit/mm² recording density; it has 30GB per platter.

Also improved was the spindle motor, and with the use of a DC/DC convertor, the drive's power consumption has also been cut 20%.

Impact protection has also been improved; it can withstand 500G (2msec) when operating, 2G of vibration while operating, and 1,500G (1msec) while not operating.

Quietness factors have also been considered - when the "MK6006GAH" idles it puts out 18dB, and when the MK30006GAL idles, it puts out 16dB.

Common specifications between the two drives include an average seek time of 15msec, a 4,200 rpm rotation speed, and ATA-6 interface.


Inspired by:
http://pc.watch.impress.co.jp/docs/2004/0804/toshiba.htm

Press Release:
http://www.toshiba.co.jp/about/press/2004_08/pr_j0401.htm