How to Buy a CD-ROM Drive

For the last several years, most desktop computers have come with CD-ROM drives. If you're adding a drive to an older computer, make especially sure the computer fulfills the drive's system requirements. CD-ROM drives can be internal (inside the computer) or external.

Things You'll Need

  • CD-ROM Drives
  • Computer Speakers
  • Floppy Disk Drive
  • Floppy Disks
  • Sound Cards
  • Floppy disks
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Instructions

    • 1

      Make note of your computer's processor type and speed, the amount of installed RAM and the amount of available hard disk space.

    • 2

      Make sure your computer has a floppy drive, a sound card and speakers. If your computer does not have a sound card, you can buy it with the CD-ROM drive. The computer must have an available expansion bay if you wish to add an internal CD drive.

    • 3

      Check the minimum system requirements of CD-ROM drives. If your computer's specifications fall short, the drive will not work in your computer.

    • 4

      Compare features - you might want a headphone jack, an external volume control or software that is bundled with a particular drive.

    • 5

      After narrowing your choices, make your buying decision on price and performance.

    • 6

      Ignore speed specifications (such as "24X" or "32X") as most moderately-priced drives will provide the same speed. If any of your applications have specific speed requirements, check the CD-ROM drive's average access time specification.

    • 7

      Find out about technical support and whether the dealer will take back a drive that doesn't work with your computer.

Tips & Warnings

  • Internal drives are faster, cost less than external drives and save space.

  • If you are buying a drive for a Macintosh, you'll find the best selection on the Internet.

  • As CD drives are short-lived products, you should buy a "name brand" and be willing to pay for a longer manufacturer's limited warranty.

  • Avoid refurbished or out-of-box drives; no matter how low the price, you are unlikely to receive good value from them.

  • Only install an internal CD drive if you are familiar with computer hardware and know what you are doing. Otherwise, ask a local dealer to install an internal drive for you, and figure the installation into the price.

  • If shopping offline, shop at computer superstores and computer stores instead of department stores, which lack product selection and knowledgeable salespeople.

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