external optical drives

[187]

hi, i plan on purchasing a toshiba portege m200.

this computer does not contain an optical drive.

i have a spare cdrw from my home pc, could i purchase one of those usb external enclosures that usually go for 15-20 bucks, and connect it to the laptop via a USB port, or will i have to shell out 200 bucks for those toshiba slimline external optical drives?

thank you for your advice and response.

-187

 

[phisrow]

A basic external USB enclosure should work just fine. It won't be able to run exclusively off bus power, though, you'll need the external adapter as well. The pricey slimline is going to be bus powered, which is nice for mobile use, and general convenience; but you don't need it, if you are willing to deal with another adapter.

 

[corkyg]

I have always used external opticals with laptops. At present, I use an external with a Firewire connection to my laptop. External burners have their own pwer source and only require data from the laptop. That is a big plus! It has always been more reliable than an internal IDE optical.

 

[187]

thanks for the responses.


corkyg, do you think you can give me a link to such a device?

i dont plan on using the drive often, only to install some software; as the laptop itself has no optical drives.

appreciate it

 

[tiap]

Here's one
Search for other models and prices

 

[ribbon13]

AMS DS-2512B2BK

Best one I've tried.