With up to 8.5-GB (Double Layer) of storage per-disc (up to 12 times the storage capacity of a CD-ROM), the HP 16x Max SATA DVD-ROM drive can read from any industry standard DVD media at speeds of up to 16x (up to 21,600 KB/s). The HP 16x Max SATA DVD-ROM Drive also reads CD media at speeds of up to 48x (up xto 7,200 KB/s) and features the added capability of reading single layer or dual layer DVD media. Serial ATA is the next generation ATA interface. It provides faster data transfer speeds, better system cooling airflow, more bandwidth, more headroom for speed increases in future generations and better data integrity helping to improve productivity. A next-generation technology, Serial Advanced Technology Attachment (SATA) interface connects storage devices to the PC platform. SATA point-to-point topology provides a direct path between the storage device and the PC enabling easy aggregation of multiple storage devices into a single PC. This offers you the additional benefits of dedicated bandwidth, the ability to more easily identify device failures and scalability.