Hello everyone I plan to purchase a NEC 3540 in the near future. My question is I would like to go external because i dont want to really mess with the computer. Is the quality or anything for that matter affected becasue its external? is there really any difference between internal or external as far as the way the drive runs? Also where will I be able to get the updated firmware for this drive that has the rip lock and other features removed from it. thank you!
I've never used an external dvd burner, so I don't know the answer to your specific questions. I, personally, prefer an internal. They are cheaper to buy, don't take up my limited space, and they leave the inputs on the computer (usb/firewire) free for other stuff (joystick, webcam,etc.). You can check here, for the firmware you asked about: http://forum.rpc1.org/index.php Good luck!
If you choose to go NEC then here are some firmware sites. By the way, I saw that Newegg has a NEC3520 for about $38 with free shipping. Check this out: http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.asp?Item=N82E16827152039 I don't think there is much difference between the 3520 and the 3540 except the latter may be a little faster. I am not trying to change your mind; so compare and see. I have the 3520 and was thinking about getting a second one and an external enclosure for my laptop. The 3520 has been proven to be an excellent buy for me. A good thing about NEC is that there is plenty of firmware available. Some good "hacked" firmware for your NEC can be found here: http://www.micheldeboer.nl/firmware/ Also here is the official NEC firmware website. http://support.necsam.com/oem/downloads/flashfirmware/
Check out this thread if you decide to go with an external burner. http://forums.afterdawn.com/thread_view.cfm/102002 I have an external Plextor 716 and it works fine through the firewaire connection. I had burnt me a few coasters when I started to use it through the USB2 (including a couple of DL discs); until I read that thread. Now no problems at all since I use the firewire.
