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Rating: 
Summary: fast, simply works.
Review: First thing first, this CDRW doesn't come with Roxio EasyCD software (like the sale title suggested). It uses Nero software. (more on that later)The reason I purchase this CDRW is because it comes with the largest buffer cache in the market (8MB total). The result is fast and smooth writing. The installation was smooth with Windows XP. The drive was regonized right away. With Win98, I had to install a driver (I have dual-boot). Nero works better than Roxio on copying CD. I was using Roxio, but it gave me a overburn error. After installed Nero, copying was a blast. The best thing I like about Nero is it would keep burnning even if there is a error, Roxio would just simply stop and pop the disk. Of course, Nero's interface is left to be desired. Roxio's DirectCD is supported. However, you can NOT make "full format" fo CD-RW disks (as for the so many other CDRW drives out there.) You can still use "quick format." You can finish the format by take the CD out and put it back in serveral times. The writing speed is very fast. Actually it wouldn't never get to 52x, since most blank CD out there only support up to 48x. Besides that, when copying, writing speed also depends on how fast the original data is read in. If you have slow CD-ROM, or slow hard drive, then you propable won't get a fast writing result. There are some other factors needed to be take in too. On my computer, copying a full 650MB CD take about 4:10 minutes. The design is very simple. One big button functions as close/open, and as light indicator -- red light when writing, green when read. There is also a earphone plug and volume control. Beware this CDRW is very loud. I can even hear it in another room...In all: Speed: 5
Design: 4
Software: 4
Noise: 3
Support: n/a...
Rating: 
Summary: bang for the buck
Review: I bought this after reading the review at CNET.com which gave it high marks for Writing but only above average rating for Reading and Rewriting. And that is what I wanted - a fast and error-free writer - which this product does very well. I have a DVD drive for reading and rewriting is something that is not done often - unless you are a backup freak. The software that came Nero is user friendly and less error-prone. Also, it included InCD software - so that cd writing is a just a drag and drop. Although, a point to note is that Roxio EasyCD is becoming more popular in the new PC's sold. But, that should make little difference as the functional use of it i.e., burning is supposed to be better with Nero (though I never used Roxio) Here are some things to be noted before buying this: a) what's in the box........cd-rw drive, e/ide cable, audio cable, mounting screws, one-page illustrated setup guide, user guide (soft copy) and Nero burning software. Minimum requirements - pII 400mhz , win98, 64mb ram.
Supports: cd-rw 700/650mb (80/74min) ::; cd-r 800/700/650mb (90/80/74 mins) ::; video-cd, photo cd....., multi-session writing. The description at the manufacturer's website is too technical to make much sense. I am including the CNET url as it has the technical specifications needed before making a purchase. http://computers.cnet.com/hardware/0-1095-404-21007267.html?tag=pdtl-list b) did an extensive search using price comparision websites and the price is the lowest here c) the software that comes is Nero and not Roxio EasyCD (and this is NOT a bad thing) d) the model is SW-252BRNS not SW-252BRAS (one might think it is an oversized lingerie product) e) the shipping box didn't come with packing slip nor receipt...... and I had to print the invoice of the net. f) deleivered on 4th working day since the order placement. And that is okay for me considering that I used free shipping. Overall pros:
- fast burning (with high 8mb buffer)
- easy hardware and software installation (i use 550mhz pIII win98)
- includes all required cables and parts unlike others drive out there (e/ide and audio cables , mounting screws)
- good burning software
- low price
- compatible with Microsoft's Mount Rainier (CD-RW as floppy) initiative
- 24/7 support from manufacturer besides an year warranty Cons:
- mmm......none that I can think of If needed, I had buy this again and from here.
Rating:
Summary: very fast
Review: I liked it so well I ordered another one for my second computer. Amazon has the best price, when you count shipping, make that the best price by far.
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