wesniles

my old atx based system $hit the bed, so now i got fujitsu lifebook as a start for the new system. BUT it has no cd/dvd drive, and limited usb ports, so im considering a PCMCIA DVD. I never knew these existed until 5 mins ago (google). Ive searched, and cant find much information on here about them, so I am wondering if anybody has info/experience with one of these. Any input is appreicated. Also, do you think the cable could be extended??

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GizmoQ

I currently use that exact drive with my tabletPC. The cable is short (~1ft), the latest drivers don't work, and on my system the supplied drivers have to be reloaded every so often cause I use it very infrequently. Mine is the DVD writer version, but I've never been able to burn a DVD with it. Burning CDs is not a problem. I like that it is hot-swappable, and works evennin the extreme environment of my car. Not bad for the price and PCMCIA is faster than my 1.1 USB so skipping video I don't have.

Let me know if you have specific questions or want me to verify any particular feature.

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HARDWARE: Fujitsu Stylistic 4121w/ WiFi & mini dock, Sierra Wireless Aircard 550, EXP PCMCIA Portable DVD-RW, Silabs FM, WinTV USB w/-26dB diversity antenna, XM Commander w/Timetrax USB, Delorme GPS, Saitek X-52 USB joystick, BluSoleil USB Bluetooth

wesniles

what im really wondering is what type of connector plugs from the PCMCIA card into the dvd drive its self and is there a way to extend the cable longer than ~1'. I want to be able to mount the drive above my head unit in the dash and run the cable to my laptop possible 3' away.

seanz0rz

ive seen them before, its a proprietary slim connector thing, id say your best bet would be to splice in cable, but its one foot for a reason, like ide cables arent suppose to be longer than 18 inches.

no chance of using a hub on your laptop? esp one that is powered externally?

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wesniles

ive got a hub right now and its pretty much full(gps, bluetooth,wifi, touchscreen, and flash drive) im just looking to stay away from powering the dvd drive from an external source and the PCMCIA is powered from the laptop. if there are any other options just let me know, im open to suggestions.

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