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How to Convert an Internal DVD Burner to External An external DVD burner offers advantages over an internal drive, including portability and the convenience of being able to use it with multiple computers. External drives sold online and in stores, however, tend to cost more than internal models. Instead of buying a whole new drive, you can convert an internal DVD recorder that you already own into an external model by purchasing an external drive enclosure. Besides being cheaper, this solution also allows you to toggle between an internal and external drive, if you ever need to in the future. DVD Burner Drive Instructions 1 Examine the internal DVD recorder to see whether it uses an IDE or SATA interface. An IDE interface consists of a long, thin, rectangular port with 40 pins, whereas the smaller SATA port features a recessed groove that resembles a backwards "L." Use either an IDE- or SATA-compatible optical drive enclosure, depending on the internal drive's interface. 2 Set the jumper on the back of the DVD drive to the "Master" setting. This applies only if the drive uses an IDE interface. Typically, drive manufacturers include graphical instructions on the top of IDE drives that illustrate how to set the jumper to the "Master" setting. Because the jumper itself is small, use a pair of tweezers to move it to the proper position.dreambox dm800 hd pvr 3 Open the external drive enclosure by using a screwdriver to remove the protective case. With the cover removed, slide the DVD drive into the case. 4 Connect the case's internal power connector, audio cable and IDE or SATA cable to the appropriate ports on the back of the DVD drive.dreambox dm8000 5 Screw the drive into place, using the support screws included with the external enclosure. Then reattach the enclosure's protective case and secure it with the screws you previously removed. 6 Attach your new external DVD burner to the computer using the USB cable included with the enclosure. Plug the enclosure into an electrical outlet with the included power cable. Then turn the drive on by pressing the power switch on the back of the enclosure.openbox s10 hd pvr 7 Turn on the computer. Click the "Start" menu in the bottom left corner of the Windows desktop and then select "My Computer." Windows will automatically detect the new drive, so you should see a drive letter assigned for the external DVD recorder Tips & Warnings Static electricity can damage computer equipment, so wear an antistatic wrist strap whenever you work on a computer or handle an internal component.
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