ASUS Extreme Slim DVD-RW Drive Review

ASUS go one step further and add a new product line to the slim drive line. The Extreme Slim DVD-RW.

Product on Review: ASUS Extreme Slim DVD-RW Drive
Manufacturer and Sponsor: ASUS
MSRP: £43.99

There has been a big push recently, especially for home users and those on the go to invest in netbooks. Smaller than the traditional notebook, a netbook has various aspects removed entirely. The optical drive being one of the key features absent. Instead, netbook users are forced to opt for a portable solution, one such solution we are taking a look at today.

ASUS don’t only provide us with phenomenal motherboards and graphics cards but they are a forerunner in many other categories. We have seen their ambition in the portable media division, today we are taking a look at the ASUS Extreme Slim DVD-RW Drive otherwise known as ESEDRW-08-H. One of the slimmest DVD-RW portable solutions on the market to date.

ASUS Take:

You need extra storage and playback but can’t spare the space and weight. Not an issue, the new Extreme Slim External DVD-RW Drive offers reliable, full DVD read/write functionality that’s so thin at 14mm, it fits anywhere. With USB connectivity and no power adapter needed, it also works effortlessly every time, and looks truly chic in brushed metal and a slender square form that’s cool to carry.

Specifications

Max writing speed
DVD-RAM 5X / DVD±R 8X
DVD+R DL 6X / DVD+RW 8X
DVD-R DL 6X / DVD-RW 6X
CD-R 24X / CD-RW 16X
Max reading speed
DVD-RAM 5X / DVD+RW 8X
DVD±R DL 4X / DVD-RW 8X
DVD±R 8X
CD-R 24X / CD-RW 24X
Operating system
Genuine Windows 2000 Professional/Windows XP/Windows Vista/Windows 7
Interface
USB 2.0
Buffer memory
1MB
Weight
320 grams
Dimensions
141 x 143 x 14 millimetres
Package contents
ASUS Extreme Slim External DVD-RW Drive (with USB Y-split cable)
Quick start guide

Closer look

Arriving in a black cardboard box the Extreme Slim DVD Drive sends across a sense of elegance. On the front there is an impression of the drive, 4 icons showing some of the fundamental features such as USB 2.0 (USB powered) 8X Maximum DVD+R/-R Write speed as well as 8X Maximum DVD+RW Writing speed.

Opening the box up, inside there is a small bundle. It’s worth noting the drive is protected within a thick cardboard tray. Within this another protective layer of wrapping. So, inside we get the following items. An instructions manual, software disc (Cyberlink Power2Go 6.0) and the USB lead for powering up the drive.

We can now focus our attention on the product itself. The Extreme Slim DVD-RW drive is a very attractive looking portable solution. It is sure to combine excellently with a black notebook or netbook.

The drive has a wonderful surface, presented with a cold brushed aluminium and a glossy silver border. Care has been taken to ensure this product is given a first-class appearance.

As far as controls and functionality is concerned there isn’t all that many things to consider. Firstly around the front there is the DVD-RW inner drive – a button allows you to easily eject the drive and this button also acts as an LED indicator to notify you of activity. The DVD standards logos are impressed on the inner drive – RW and DVD Multi-Recorder.

To the rear of the drive there is a DC-IN socket – this is can be used as an optional power source. Allow there isn’t a power connector for this bundle with the product. Next to the DC-IN socket is the mini-USB port. Used to connect the drive directly to your computer.

The only other thing worth mentioning about the Extreme Slim DVD RW drive is that the underside features four rubber feet to prevent the device from slipping and potentially breaking.

Cyberlink Power2go 6.0

As previously mentioned, bundled with the Extreme Slim DVD-RW drive is a software disc. ASUS have included Cyberlink Power2go 6.0.

http://www.cyberlink.com/products/power2go/overview_en_US.html

CyberLink Power2go gives you industrial grade encryption. The ability to control media files – burn files, copy files, encrypt, create interactive photo galleries, with drop and drag functionality.

The first screen you will find appearing once installed, is the register your product page. It is worthwhile doing this because it allows you access to useful information and of course puts you within the right channels for technical support.

Once registered, the main panel appears and gives you the option of three different features. Below are these features and what they offer.

Conclusion

The first thing ever so noticeable with the Extreme Slim DVD-RW drive from ASUS is that they have crafted a spectacular looking media solution for those on the go. Whether you are on a journey, on the train, on a flight, wanting to watch a dvd whilst cooking, or even relaxing on the sofa this drive will add class to such a simple operation.

Due to the shape and size of this drive, its great for slipping into the notebook/netbook bag and taking with you wherever you go. It comes with DVD-RW functionality and a software package that compliments these features so you have multiple media opportunities right at your finger tips, wherever you are.

The drive does emit some noise when reading discs, no more than a standard portable solution though. When writing discs that noise ramps up ever so slightly but I wouldn’t assert this to be disruptive by any means.

This drive was announced at the end of August and we are yet to learn of the price of the unit. So to determine whether it holds good value, for now we cannot say. UPDATE: The price for this unit settles around £43.99 which is very competitive.

Pros
+ Beautiful looks
+ Extremely portable
+ Good software package

Cons
– None that are noticeable

Due to the qualities of the Extreme Slim DVD-RW it more than deserves the Gold award. Well done ASUS.