The SATA 6.0 Gbps interface is quite superior to the SATA 3.0 Gbps

Even though hardware makers don't usually release any new product without trying to turn some heads, it seems that Western Digital did not care much for a so-called protocol this time around and has released a new Caviar Black hard drive based on the next-generation SATA 6.0 Gbps interface. Having introduced it without much fuss is rather unusual, considering the fact that this next-generation standard is still a way off from becoming mainstream.
The SATA 6.0 Gbps interface is quite superior to the SATA 3.0 Gbps. It completely outmatches this predecessor in both read and write capabilities, setting the stage for new performance standards for hard drives and solid-state drives. Still, the technology is not extremely easy to come by, as only a limited number of motherboards exist with this functionality built into them. In addition, storage units based on this new standard are just as rare as are adapter cards. Still, with this latest addition from Western Digital, they are at least a step closer to becoming widespread.

The new hard disk drive from Western Digital is called the Caviar Black WD1002FAEX and uses the 3.5-inch form factor. It is built with 1TB of storage space and works at a rotary speed of 7,200 rotations per minute (RPM). In addition, the storage unit features a buffer memory of 64MB and its sound output, while seeking, is of 33 dBA. The drive will play the part of a faster alternative to the SATA 3.0 Gbps model, whose codename is WD1001FALS.

Unfortunately, the Western Digital Caviar Black WD1002FAEX is, currently, only available in Japan, where it carries a price tag of $118. This sum translates into about 85 Euro and is somewhat higher than that of the WD1001FALS. So far, there is no word on when, if ever, the model will become available in other regions.