Computer Components

[Simoli]

Looks like I am finally admitting that my DVD drive needs to be replaced. Where is a good/dependable online place to order from?

Guess I'll be needing to take the box off my cpu cover to see what I currently have.

Then - is it as simple as removing the old one and putting the new one in it's place? Outide of turning on and off the computer and going online I really suck at this stuff. I have a Dell Dimension 8400 which is only a couple of years old.

[sethmo]

What do you mean 'take the box off my cpu'? Take the heatsinc off the CPU to see what speed it is? Theres easier ways.

And to order a new DVD drive, hit up www.newegg.com They have great prices, fast shipping, and awesome customer service. You just need an IDE DVD drive.

Th drive is easy to remove out of the 8400. Just press the buttons on the top and bottum of hte case and it scissors open. The DVD drive is removed from the inside, press the two green rails together and it slides out.

[Simoli]

What do you mean 'take the box off my cpu'?Oops, meant to put cover. Fixed. But yes, so I know what type of player the DVD is and that when I order a new one I know that I'm geting something that fits and has the right connector.

[sethmo]

Ah, if its a normal Dell 8400, the panel doesnt pop off, the machine splits in half like this:
http://www.hardwarecentral.com/graphics/screenshots/1092260555486dimd521.jpg

And this would be the right DVD+/-RW drive for it:
http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16827106249

Any IDE drive would work.

[Mark1]

They are all the same form factor. You will be able to pull one out and pop the new one right in. No drivers needed.

[Simoli]

Went to the local Circuit City and picked up a new drive. Popped it in and voila, it worked. Something must be wrong that I haven't figured out yet as these type of things never work for me as planned.