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    Fujitsu DVD replacement

    Discussion in 'Hardware Components and Aftermarket Upgrades' started by Arthur Sleep, Mar 6, 2007.

  1. Arthur Sleep

    Arthur Sleep Newbie

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    Hi,

    A friend is using a Fujitsu Amilo L7310GW which has a broken Philips SDVD 8431 DVD+-RW drive.

    My question is - can a moderately competent person replace this drive with another, or is this a major task best performed by a technician?

    Also, if it is possible, does anyone know where to source a drive or what alternatives are compatible?

    Any help would be really appreciated. Thanks.

    Andy (UK)
     
    Arthur Sleep, Mar 6, 2007
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  2. ZaZ

    ZaZ Super Model Super Moderator

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    If you can get a copy of the service manual it should explain the procedure. I don't know whether Fujitsu like to hand them out. I have replaced optical drives before, but don't know the specifics on the Amilo since they are not sold here.
     
    ZaZ, Mar 7, 2007
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  3. John Ratsey

    John Ratsey Moderately inquisitive Super Moderator

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    It is 99% probable that the ODD is a standard 1/2" high "slim" model and almost any new ODD will be suitable. A possible hazard is that some ODDs are preset to be master and others are slave. This is only a problem if the computer has been set up with HDD and ODD sharing a single IDE channel. You can check this in Device Manager. If the existing ODD is slave then you should look for a new drive preset as slave (you may need to ask the supplier or search the www). Otherwise it doesn't matter.

    Usually, there is a screw or two which holds the ODD in place. Often these are visible (and may be marked) on the bottom of the computer, but may be underneath the keyboard. If you can find the screw(s), remove them and then pull on the ODD. Usually, there is a fixing bracket screwed onto the ODD which will need to be removed and fixed onto the new ODD.

    You can buy a replacement from various companies. A couple of possible sources are: PC Nextday or Insight.

    John
     
    John Ratsey, Mar 7, 2007
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