pioneer electronics
LONG BEACH - As the DVD Forum releases the specifications for new high-speed discs for DVD recording, Pioneer Electronics (USA) Inc. announces that many of its DVD-R/RW computer drives and DVD recorders will require a firmware update in order to avoid potential damage to the units and discs. [1]
Today, Pioneer is well-known for technology advancements in the consumer electronics industry. [2]
We are pleased to announce that AMPEL has just moved to a more sophisticated and enhanced new location in Cranbury, New Jersey. [3]
Car audio and automotive navigation systems, Televisions (CRT Lens and Plasma), PC DVD drives including PC DVD recorders, “set-top” DVD players and DVD recorders, Misc. [2]
The source of the problem is a firmware “bug” in certain Pioneer DVD-R/RW recorders and drives, and not with the high-speed media itself. [...] The update process is free and relatively simple, and it is extremely important for owners of these products to make sure it is completed prior to using any new high-speed discs for recording. [1]
Pioneer played a role in the development of interactive cable TV, the Laser Disc player, the first automotive Compact Disc player, the first detachable face car stereo, Supertuner technology, DVD and DVD recording, plasma display, and Organic LED display (OLED). [2]
NOTE: These links are for US and Canada customers only. [...] NOTE: Drives supporting DVD-RAM and + RW formats are not affected by this issue. [1]
On March 7, 2008, Pioneer Corp. announced that it will stop manufacturing its own plasma displays. [2]
Anyone who owns or uses any of the above-listed products should conduct the free firmware update immediately, prior to using the new high-speed media. [1]
Sharp Corporation took a controlling stake in Pioneer in 2007. [2]
In addition to the above models, certain OEM computer systems containing Pioneer-manufactured DVD-R/RW drives are affected. [...] As a result, use of the new high-speed discs for recording on these particular Pioneer products may cause damage to both the loaded disc and to the drive/recorder. [...] Various media manufacturers have begun production of these discs that will soon be available in the marketplace. [1]
Sources:
[1] Home Page (www.pioneerelectronics.com/hs)
[2] Pioneer Corporation - Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia (en.wikipedia.org/wiki/
[3] AMPEL - AMERICAN PIONEER ELECTRONICS INC (www.ampel.com)