SanDisk unveils ultra-thin 72GB SSD, more

SanDisk today set its benchmarks for CES by introducing upgrades to its signature flash memory. An updated version of the SSD SATA 5000 promises to reshape ultraportable notebooks, according to the company; the redesign is thinner at only 5mm (0.2in) deep and is about 30 percent lighter than a spinning hard disk in the same 1.8-inch shape. Storage also increases from 64GB to an uncommon 72GB in the top model to make the most use of available space. Power consumption is still low at just 0.85 watts in peak use and 0.2 watts when parked, SanDisk estimates. Drives ship in the spring but will be dependent on computer builders to integrate them into shipping notebooks.

Two removable flash drives are also being made available; the Cruzer Crossfire 8GB ($130) doubles the storage of previous models and gives both access to special game content as well as a means of carrying game saves and other data between Macs, PCs, and game consoles. PSP owners also have access to the Gaming Memory Stick PRO Duo 8GB ($150) in green for storing downloaded games or a portable media collection on the Sony handheld. The Memory Stick ships in January and will be followed by the Cruzer Crossfire between then and the end of March.