subject: What is a USB CD Writer and how to use them [print this page] What is a USB CD Writer and how to use them
Most of us a are familiar with the now-ubiquitous internal CD Writer or in general terms, an optical drive - a standard for any reasonable computer package. It is used for handling, reading and writing optical storage disks known as CD's or DVD's. Most of us also know that an internal optical drive is pre-installed within the computer itself, pretty much lying there stiff, a part of the whole system. However there is also a type of optical drives which is simply pretty much like the internal type, only loose - external to be exact. These are called external or USB CD Writers. While the internal optical drive are connected directly on the motherboard through the IDE or SATA ports, the primary connection of a USB Writer is the USB 2.0 interface, hence the name. Some USB CD Writers even has provisions for a Firewire connection or both.
So why would you want an external USB CD Writer when you have your old reliable internal optical drive? It is flexible, for one, a mobile device that can buzz from one computer to another, always available for your storage disk-handling job whenever the need arises. It is also a handy device for those laptop owners on the go, who needs reliable and fast CD/DVD writing capabilities which their laptops can't provide or is simply lacking. There are numerous compact and light USB Writers out there in the market to choose from which are heavy on features and are reasonably priced. They are worth checking out an this may well be the great-valued upgrade you are looking for.
USB CD Writers are subject to the normal wear and tear with continual use as in the case with internal CD drives, but proper care and good handling practices should be warranted more for these portable, stand alone devices which are prone to environmental as well as physical abuse. Buying a good quality, durable USB CD Writers in the first place should always come to mind to ensure the reliability or quality output of your Writer under any circumstances.
Good brands for Writers include Plextor, Lite On and Samsung. Proper handling should be put into a proper account in accordance with using a quality product so you can enjoy the services of your USB CD Writer for years to come. So what are the things to look out for?
First, find a level, sturdy place for your USB CD Writer before doing software installation or CD writing chores, with a power outlet in proximity for the power source for your device. A tabletop or a sturdy chair should do well. Never hold it up with your hands because the instability will greatly affect disk speeds which in turn affect the output of your device and also put undue stress to laser reading/writing head which can significantly decrease its effective lifespan.
Probably the worst that you can do to your device is to drop it accidentally, even worse, to drop it while burning a CD, so we can't say ever enough to emphasize the importance of proper handling of this device or just about any portable electronic device for this matter. Finally, when not in use, put your Writer in its original packaging.
