Toshiba today announced two new 2.5-inch HDD models designed for rugged 24-hour continuous operation in computing, industrial, and other extreme environments.

The new models - the 100GB 4,200 RPM SATA interface MK1060GSCX and the 80GB 4,200 RPM PATA interface MK8050GACY - promise to offer exceptional reliability and performance across wide temperature, altitude, and vibration ranges. The MK1060GSCX has an operational altitude range of -300 and 5650 metres, whilst the MK8050GACY has a range of between -300 and 5500 metres.

Designed for extended periods of operation, the MK1060GSCX and MK8050GACY feature a "case temperature" range of -15 to +70 degrees Celsius. Both drives also have an expanded operating altitude range and offer better resistance to vibration when compared to standard HDD models.

As part of Toshiba?s commitment to the environment, the MK1060GSCX is halogen free and both drives are compliant with the European Union?s Directive on the Restriction of the Use of Certain Hazardous Substances in Electrical and Electronic Equipment (RoHS).

The MK1060GSCX and MK8050GACY will begin volume production in December 2010.