".Pioneer New Media Technologies Inc announced that it is shipping the industry's first 16X (max.) DVD-ROM drive, "Sweet 16". As with its introduction of the 10X drive, Pioneer is again the first to bring the fastest DVD-ROM drive to market.

With speeds that are 16 times faster than first generation DVD-ROM technology, the 16X DVD-ROM/40X CD-ROM is compatible with single and dual layer DVD-ROM and DVD-Video, DVD-R, DVD-RW, CD-ROM, CD-R, CD-RW, CD-DA, Video CD and Photo CD media, preserving compatibility with conventional CD formats. Pioneer's most advanced drive to-date, the 16X DVD-ROM offers:

- Random seek times of less than 85 msec for DVD-ROM (70 msec for CD-ROM)
- Access times less than 95 msec (80 msec for CD-ROM)
- ATAPI interface
- Horizontal or vertical mounting capabilities

Pioneer's DVD-ROM drive features a 512KB buffer memory, audio output, a front panel headphone jack and volume control knob. Compatible with the Windows 9X Plug and Play standard, the drive is easy to install and use. The 5.25-inch half-height drive measures 148x207.5x42.3mm (WxDxH) and weigh 1.0 kg.

The current version (DVD-115) features a tray-load and is available now through OEM and distribution channels. The slot-load (DVD-105S) version will be available in May 2000.."