Yesterday, Intel announced their new Thunderbolt technology, which appeared in the new 2011 MacBook Pro’s. This groundbreaking technology promises to revolutionize data transfer speeds and connectivity options for a wide range of devices. Following this announcement, LaCie has introduced the first external Thunderbolt-compatible hard drive, the LaCie Little Big Disk.
The LaCie Little Big Disk offers data transfer speeds of up to 10Gbps, making it one of the fastest external storage solutions available on the market. This speed is particularly beneficial for professionals who work with large files, such as video editors, graphic designers, and software developers. The drive is fully compatible with the new range of Apple MacBook Pro’s, ensuring seamless integration for users of these high-performance laptops.
Thunderbolt Technology: A Game Changer
Thunderbolt technology, developed by Intel in collaboration with Apple, represents a significant leap forward in I/O technology. It combines PCI Express and DisplayPort into a single connection, allowing for high-speed data transfer and high-definition display output through the same port. This dual functionality simplifies the connectivity landscape, reducing the number of ports and cables needed for various devices.
The 10Gbps transfer speed of Thunderbolt is twice as fast as USB 3.0 and up to 20 times faster than USB 2.0. This speed enables rapid file transfers, reducing wait times and increasing productivity. For example, transferring a full-length HD movie can take less than 30 seconds with Thunderbolt, compared to several minutes with older technologies.
“Thunderbolt technology is a breakthrough in I/O technology and represents the future of mobile computing. Soon you will be able to carry workstation-class power and functionality in compact devices,” said Philippe Spruch, Chairman and General Manager, LaCie. “LaCie is excited to be one of the first to deliver Thunderbolt technology with the LaCie Little Big Disk.”
LaCie Little Big Disk: Features and Benefits
The LaCie Little Big Disk is designed to leverage the full potential of Thunderbolt technology. It features two Thunderbolt ports, allowing users to daisy-chain multiple devices, such as additional storage drives, monitors, and other peripherals. This capability is particularly useful for creating complex workstation setups without the need for multiple cables and connections.
The drive itself is compact and portable, making it an ideal solution for professionals on the go. Despite its small size, the LaCie Little Big Disk does not compromise on performance. It is equipped with high-speed SSDs (Solid State Drives) or high-capacity HDDs (Hard Disk Drives), depending on the model, to meet different storage needs.
Another notable feature is the drive’s robust aluminum casing, which provides excellent heat dissipation and durability. This design ensures that the drive remains cool and reliable, even during intensive use.
There are no details on pricing or availability as yet, but the anticipation is high among tech enthusiasts and professionals alike. You can find out more details over at LaCie.
The introduction of Thunderbolt technology and the LaCie Little Big Disk marks a significant milestone in the evolution of data transfer and storage solutions. With its unparalleled speed, versatility, and ease of use, Thunderbolt is set to become the new standard for high-performance connectivity. The LaCie Little Big Disk, as one of the first devices to incorporate this technology, offers a glimpse into the future of mobile computing and professional workflows.
Image Credit: James Martin/CNET
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