Does external DVD burner plug right in?

[melissah]

I need to buy an external DVD burner. Mine that came with the computer does not work. Any recommedations without taking out a second mortgage?:)

I have 2 USB ports in the back and one is being used. So would I need one that is USB compatible? Do I plug it into the back of my computer and set it on my desk and leave it plugged in? Does it affect my computer at all or is the hard drive all on it's own?

I am tired of messing with CD-R's....argh. I am starting to realize that all my stress comes from dealing with CD-R's, It was fine when all I used was my P&S.:D

[cdifoto]

You're talking about 2 different things. First you're on about a DVD burner, then you refer to it as a hard drive. An hard drive is exactly that, but a DVD burner lets you write to CDs and DVDs. Both can be external and both can be firewire or USB connected.

Which do you really want?

[melissah]

oops...I mean a DVD burner (external)

[cdifoto]

OK so you definitely want a burner. There are a lot of options for under $100. In fact I was looking at a few the other day on newegg.com. They come with driver CDs to install on your computer and usually come with burning software like Nero. Pretty much plug & play.

I'm not sure what you mean by "does it affect my computer at all or is it all on its own"

[melissah]

Thanks. I will check out that website too.