CompactFlash Association develops XQD 2.0 spec, promises up to 8 Gbps throughput
Just as were starting to get cozy with the still vastly unavailable XQD format, the CompactFlash Association is back with version 2.0 of the spec, which it says could provide transfer speeds of up to 8 Gb/s (1,000 MB/s). You'll need to have access to a PCI Express 3.0 interface in order to take advantage of that throughput, however -- a boost from the 5 Gbps offered with the previous-gen solution. XQD 2.0 is still under development, with Sony footing the bill, and the organization is welcoming "additional participation" as it works to refine the standard. There's no saying exactly when we'll start seeing devices that employ the new tech, though CFA is aiming to make the spec available "in the second half of 2012." Cards that utilize the new format will enable video capture at higher bandwidth that the SD and CF media of today, and while we seem to be managing just fine with the current stock for capturing 1080p, faster storage will certainly be welcome in the future, once 4K, and perhaps even larger formats, make their mainstream debut.
Show full PR text
The CompactFlash Association Invites Participation on XQD 2.0
XQD 2.0 Format Leverages PCI-SIG Gen 3 to Deliver up to 1,000MB/sec Sequential Transfers
CUPERTINO, Calif.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--The CompactFlash Association (CFA) is pleased to announce the development of the XQD 2.0 specification, sponsored by Sony Corporation. The XQD 2.0 specification will be developed in the XQD Technical Workgroup and will leverage the XQD 1.0 specification which was released October 2010. Additional participation in this specification development will be welcomed.
XQD 1.0 cards and connectors are already available in the marketplace. XQD 2.0 will leverage the same connector interface as XQD 1.0 interface for higher performance and backward compatibility. Host manufacturers and media manufacturers will be able to leverage the next generation of PCI Express® technology to serve the high performance requirements of this market. The new format will have VPG (Video Performance Guarantee) capability with profiles capable of supporting digital intermediate formats such as ProResTM, DPXTM, and DNXhdTM.
The key features of the XQD 2.0 format will include:
Professional form-factor
Dimensions : 38.5mm x 29.6mm x 3.8mm
Durable & Robust
High Performance Interface
PCI Express 3.0: 8Gbps (up to 1,000MB/sec)
Legacy support for PCI Gen 1 and Gen 2
Video Performance Guarantee
Support for VPG New Profiles
Superior Power Management
5mW standby power
"The XQD 2.0 format will enable hardware and imaging applications to leverage the performance benefits of the well established PCI Express infrastructure allowing for many years of higher performance and backward compatible products. The Video Performance Guarantee Features of XQD 2.0 will also widen its appeal meeting the needs of higher end video applications," said Mr. Shigeto Kanda of Canon, chairman of the board, CFA.
If you would like to participate in developing the XQD 2.0 specification, please contact the CFA office to inquire about membership and/or joining the XQD Technical Workgroup or the CFA website http://www.compactflash.org. CFA is targeting for the XQD 2.0 specification to be available in the second half of 2012.
