Products: Quantum

Mention MXF, and most likely you'll think of how the file format enables gear like Sony's XDCAM and Panasonic's P2 camcorders to “wrap” their video to enable direct access by NLE systems.

But at NAB 2005, Quantum debuted another use: Its MXF-aware SDLT 600A tape drive offers a low-cost method to access, exchange, and archive HD and SD video assets. Since the MXF wrapper turns the video into a standardized data file, facilities don't need as many specialized — and pricey — VTRs and DDRs.

Based on an enhanced version of Quantum's long-established DLT technology, the SDLT 600A system employs the company's DLTxchange hardware/software combo to create a network-attached, file-accessible data tape storage drive. Features include a Gigabit Ethernet interface, while the cassette delivers a native 300GB capacity and 36MBps transfer rate. www.quantum.com