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    External DVD drive specs question

    Discussion in 'Hardware Components and Aftermarket Upgrades' started by kns, Jan 3, 2009.

  1. kns

    kns Notebook Evangelist

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    I am looking for an external recordable DVD +RW (is that "+RW" the best?) drive for Thinkpad x61s. I see these speed parameters and don't know which are important and which are not, especially regarding to +R, +RW, -R, -RW, etc. I would like to be able to use my DVD+RW discs for recording/rewriting. What should I look for in the specifications? Your explanations will be most appreciated! :D

    DVD-ROM Access Time
    CD-ROM Access Time
    Cache 2MB
    WRITE Speed
    DVD+R 20X
    DVD+RW 8X
    DVD-R 20X
    DVD-RW 6X
    CD-R 48X (some do not have these 2 "CD" speeds, which means?)
    CD-RW 24X
    DVD+R DL 8X
    DVD-R DL 8X
    DVD-RAM 12X
    READ Speed
    DVD-ROM 16X
    CD-ROM 48X
     
    kns, Jan 3, 2009
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  2. Phil

    Phil Retired

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    Do you want AC powered (faster) or USB powered (more portable)?
     
    Phil, Jan 3, 2009
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  3. kns

    kns Notebook Evangelist

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    AC powered. I don't need portable.
     
    kns, Jan 3, 2009
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  4. Phil

    Phil Retired

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    Phil, Jan 4, 2009
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  5. John Ratsey

    John Ratsey Moderately inquisitive Super Moderator

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    Liteon are usually another good budget brand.

    I think everything in current production will handle the rewritable (+RW) discs.

    Different burners tend to be optimised for different media and you will need to start by buying smaller quantities of empty discs until you know your burner's favourite food.

    John
     
    John Ratsey, Jan 4, 2009
    #5