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 External optical DVD drive for iMac 
 
 
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Old 16-11-2008, 09:47 AM
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External optical DVD drive for iMac
I'm frustrated with the limitations of drive regions. I've bought a number of DVD's from overseas since either I can't get them here or I want specific releases only available elsewhere. I've looked into updating the firmware of my drive, but it doesn't look easy or without it's risks. So I'm thinking it might be easier to get an external dvd drive.

What does one look for? I don't want to spend too much, especially since I know the drives themselves are very cheap. I'd happily make my own with an appropriate enclosure. I'm not sure what sort of interface to use though - USB or Firewire? Thanx for any suggestions about this
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Old 16-11-2008, 09:50 AM
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Firewire will do you well, and is bootable if you ever need it.

Also saves a usb port!
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Old 16-11-2008, 09:50 AM
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I am using a Lacie Lightscribe - nice burner on usb - all drives burn out so I am happy using the external on my new imac- plus the lightscribe is cool for labelling.
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Old 16-11-2008, 09:52 AM
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As long as you obtain the correct region-free firmware (for the right model and revision), as stated in Apple System Profiler, installing the new firmware is very simple.

JB
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Old 16-11-2008, 10:33 AM
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Thanx for the quick replies.

I'll have a look at the lite-on models. I suppose part of the choice will be based on how easy it is to make the drive region free also - so I'll need to check for firmware etc.

I've looked at some of the sites that discuss changing the drive firmware, but I couldn't find a clear guide on how to do it. I know there is a post on this forum about it, but it seemed a bit confusing. Also I'm using an Optiarc drive which is apparently different in some ways. see The Firmware Page • View topic - OPTIARC DVD RW AD-5630A
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