Strengths:Compact, Good-Looking, USB-compliant (mini-usb), includes internal 2-port USB hub, multi-function remote, and King-Kong
Weaknesses:Noisy, External Power Supply
Posted Sep 23, 2007 - This is solidly constructed and sturdy drive is built to last. The drive is fairly loud while spinning up and being used, but quiet otherwise (this is in part due to the fan located behind the rear of the case). Although it initially appears chunky and awkward, the chrome drive tray bezel, lime-green LED (which indicates the drive's power and status), and the curves of the case (which resembles a closed book) make for an aesthetically pleasing look. The only other matter is the external dongle power supply. If one can live with these two issues, say perhaps with a good cable management system and an enclosed entertainment cabinet to help quiet the noise, then the unmatched price for this drive make it a solid purchase.
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Notes on Function: The HD-DVDs can be played in two different ways. The original manner proposed by Microsoft enables use of the striking Remote which includes plenty of buttons and the relatively intuitive xbox 360 video playback software interface configurable on-screen. The other way is somewhat surprising. The drive can be connected to a personal computer and will be automatically detected and installed when using Windows XP or later. This, in combination with a HDCP-compatible video-card, monitor, and playback software (CyberLink,InterVideo,etc.) (if lacking these, work-arounds are obtainable through internet searches) will permit playback of hd-dvds.
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