Western Digital launches external drive to expand DVR storage

July 5, 2007 – Western Digital (WD), a US manufacturer of digital storage products, has launched its My Library Video Edition DVR Expander, an add-on external drive that increases the storage capacity of consumer digital video recorders (DVRs).

The Expander has a storage capacity of 500 GB, capable of storing up to 300 hours of standard-definition broadcasts or 60 hours of high-definition broadcasts.  Jim Welsh, Vice President and General Manager of Western Digital’s branded products and consumer electronics units, commented: “As the adoption of storage-hungry HDTV continues to grow, the demand for additional storage becomes increasingly important to consumers.  When it comes to entertainment, adding WD’s DVR Expander to their DVR allows consumers to save more of their TV shows giving them greater control and convenience.”

The My Library DVR Expander is compatible with Scientific Atlanta 8300 Series digital video recorders, including models 8300 HD, 8300 MR and 8300 HD MR, and further compatibility is reportedly planned as other cable and satellite DVR manufacturers enable the external SATA ports on their products.  The unit retails for US$ 199.99.