Sony Computer Entertainment Inc. announced today the device by which its next-generation PlayStation will read both CDs and DVDs.
Sony has invented a new laser light oscillator, an original piece of in-house technology that will enable the PlayStation 2 to be a backward compatible system, company officials explained. The device enables laser light, which is used for reading data recorded on DVDs and CDs, to be oscillated on a single chip. By cutting down the number of component parts to one single chip, Sony can cut manufacturing costs, and streamline its system. The number of key components was reduced from 11 to four, while the size of the device has been halved or more, the company says.
This new device is a massive undertaking for Sony. Using this original technology, Sony plans to become the first company in the videogame industry to oscillate on a single chip laser light with wavelengths of 650 nanometers for DVDs and 780 nanometers for CDs. Previously, different light oscillators were required for both media. (A nanometer is one billionth of a meter.)
Interestingly enough, the new device will only be used for the new PlayStation -- for now. However, in the future the new device could very well be used in DVD video players, DVD-ROMs, and other types of DVD players. Sony said it is also planning to use it for rewriteable DVD-CD systems as well.
Sony is still hopeful it can ship its newest PlayStation system by this winter in Japan.
