Installing DVD Burner

Question

Hi,   I just purchased a E521 AMD 3600 dimension desktop today that comes with a basic dvd rom player only.  I did not spring for the upgraded burner as money is tight right now because of a new baby. I figured I could save a few bucks and install one myself. My question follows.   Should I purchase for the Dimension E521 a SATA dvd burner or should I purchase a IDE dvd burner? They are both about the same price. Sorry, but I just ordered the computer today so I cannot physically have a look  inside the case. Also, I want to order the dvd burner now so that I will have it when the computer arrives from Dell in a few days.   If this computer can take either the IDE or SATA drive, which one is the better choice? Lastly, I will leave the dvd - rom player in the computer and add the other drive so that I will have a total of two drives.     Thanks fior your help in advance.   BillD

Skybird · Answer

For the E521, purchase a SATA optical drive.  If you use a PATA IDE driveyou will need an ATA expansion card.

Predator · Answer

Edit: sorry old friend for the cut/step-on, slow typing tonight, I am gone for the night, take care..

Hi Bill,

The E521 does not have any IDE channels/ports on the motherboard, an all SATA internal drives. You have 4 SATA ports, here is your User Manual:
E521
So in a nutshell for internal you will need a SATA drive.
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Message Edited by Predator on 05-02-2007 10:14 PM

Storage, Drives & Media

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