Replacing optical drive

I intend to buy one of the Asus A6M/F3M/A6Jc/A8Jc models (haven't decided yet). I'm a bit concerned though that these units usually come with TSSTCorp drives, which are pretty crappy. Can anybody tell me if the optical drives in these models are built-in, or are they removable and can be replaced with other brands?

 

You can always remove the optical drive and replace it. If its a fixed bay, the process may be a bit more labor intensive than if it's a removable bay, but in all situations you can swap out your optical drive.

 

If it's a fixed bay, are the optical drives made by different manufacturers compatible with one another? That is, if I want to replace a TSSTcorp fixed unit in my Asus, would I have trouble finding a compatible LG or Matsh1ta unit, or are these drives usually compatible?

 

I try toshiba optical drive on my new asus laptop, it fit. do try the universial dirve

 

To be more clear: replacing the unit with another TSSTcorp (Toshiba-Samsung) will probably work (based on Gautam's answer). Is it possible though to replace it with a different brand and is it usually troublesome to do so for Asus notebooks, or are optical drives usually compatible with one another?

 

Biggest problem you will probably run into replacing optical drive is getting the existing bezel cover to attach onto the new unit so that it fits smoothly against the chassis when closed, which can be a small or big headache depending on the optical replacement you're using. As long as you're using the manufacturer's drivers, any optical drive is likely to work for you in the Asus. I recall a few people around here replacing their opticals with NEC drives, I think.

The A- and F- series both only have built-in drives, they're not modular or removable (i.e. without taking the chassis apart); only units in Asus' current lineup with that capability are the V1 and VX2.

 

OK, thanks ClearSkies.

 

As far as replacing the drive with another brand, the main thing aside from the size is whether there is a special bezel or not.

Some laptop models require that you use a special bezel whereas other models can use whatever bezel that comes with the optical drive. Units like Acers and Toshibas typically use the "standard" type which has its own black bezel (Z96 also uses it) while the more higher end ASUS tend to use a special bezel that replaces the front completely. The main problem with that is button placement, emergency release latch placement, and LED placement (if applicable), and they ALL have to line up.