HP today introduced two DVD writers with improved performance, broad format compatibility and a dramatic increase in write speed compared to its previous models.

Both DVD writers are built on +R/+RW technology, the format that is offered on the leading DVD burners and is compatible with most DVD players and DVD-ROMs tested. Focusing on the +R/+RW format lets HP take advantage of the latest technological advances in the most widely adopted standard, such as 8x DVD write speed, while avoiding the additional costs and complications of dual-format drives.

Both the internal (dvd400i) and external (dvd400e) drives let users back up and archive data, store digital photos and create a personal video archive on high-capacity DVD+R/+RW discs featuring up to 4.7 gigabytes of storage capacity. The HP dvd400e drive also offers the flexibility of working through an IEEE1394 or USB 2.0 connection; cables for both interfaces are included.

The drives feature write speeds of 8x on a DVD +R disc, 4x on a DVD +RW disc, 24x on a CD-R and 10x on a CD-RW disc. Additionally, the drives feature a 12x DVD read speed and a 32x CD read speed.

The HP DVD Writer dvd400i is expected to be available at hpshopping.com and major retail outlets in the United States this month at an estimated U.S. street price of $199, while the HP DVD Writer dvd400e is expected to be available in December at an estimated U.S. street price of $279. HP brand 8x DVD+R discs also are expected to be available in November.