Cheap source for OEM DVD drives?

The BIOS might not let you boot from the wrong brand of DVD drive, so be
SURE you know what brand IBM uses before you get the drive from a
different source. Operating-system-level support shouldn't be a problem.
BIOS-level support is a different story.

If your Thinkpad CD drive has a special bezel that matches the color,
texture, and profile of the computer's case, expect to replace this with
the generic bezel from the new DVD drive. Even drives from the same
manufacturer (e.g. TEAC's CD-224E and DV-28E) have incompatible bezels.

Note also that some portable computer manufacturers obtain their CD and
DVD drives from different sources. Sony, for example, seems to use TEAC CD-
ROM drives and Toshiba DVD-ROM drives.

I learned everything the hard way and have built up a great collection of
incompatible slim CD/DVD drives, mounting brackets, screws, bezels, and
external cases!

The best source of low-priced slim DVD drives is a computer store that can
order repair parts. You could also research inexpensive modular drives
made for discontinued computers (e.g. VST's Macintosh PowerBook G3
expansion bay DVD-ROM drive). As a last resort, research inexpensive
external portable DVD drives (Addonics brand, for example). Doubtlessly
you will find something with the right brand of drive inside.

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Posted via CNET Help.com
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