e1505, e1705 or any laptops.. able to upgrade dvd drive to an HDDVD at some point?

Anyone know the answer on this one... I know how the rule of thumb is based on the notes in the forum for things like video cards...

What about optical drives (internal).. If I want to put a non dell HD DVD laptop drive in (any) laptop down the road.. is it as simple as pulling the old one out?

Or am I only able to put it in if its offered on the specific model by the specific company that made the laptop (later on).?

Thanks

 

It is certainly possible, though I wouldn't count on the part being available for a while. I've heard a few stories about aftermarket optical drive upgrades, so it is doable if you research enough.

But, I'd suggest you look into getting an external drive for that. The USB XBOX360 HD-DVD is a good example, and only costs $200. Hacked XP drivers, or standard (included) Vista drivers will work with the drive, so supposedly you only need to purchase a HD DVD capable player and it should all work.

When I get the money, I'm probably going to try this myself and see how it goes.

 

Before I buy I'm waiting for either a clear winner to emerge in the HD format wars or a drive that can do both. Seems kinda silly to spend that kind of money on a drive that in a few years possibly won't have any content available for it.