Slim optical drives

GJM · 21 Dec 2011 at 13:09

Hey folks,

Anyone got any opinion on the slim optical drives they use?

Hopefully purchasing mitx gaming rig over the next couple of weeks.

Wanting to use the ever popular Sugo SG05b 450w with a Zotac Z68 wifi board -
http://www.overclockers.co.uk/showproduct.php?prodid=MB-010-ZT&groupid=701&catid=5&subcat=2071

So will need a slim drive.

Are there any quality / reliability issues with slim / laptop drives?

Im thinking Blu-ray but seems costly.

Also what connectors will I need to hook a laptop drive to the Zotac board? Looking over some threads on other websites there is talk of needing various adepter cables etc?

I dont want to make a purchase and find i need a different cable.

Cheers

scrlk · 21 Dec 2011 at 14:00

IIRC, slim drives usually have a smaller power connector.

Arthur17 · 22 Dec 2011 at 02:56

You need a Slimline SATA to SATA + Power adapter...

or a Slimline SATA to SATA with LP4 Power Cable.

I normally use the first adapter because this enables me to use the SATA power connector on my PSU, instead of the old fashioned Molex LP4 connector.

GJM · 22 Dec 2011 at 09:38

Thanks Arthur17, thats what im looking for.

Im guessing slim drives rarely come with thoes boxed?

Arthur17 · 22 Dec 2011 at 17:31

Yeah. Most optical drives are sold without SATA cables (unless you get the retail boxed version).

vanandjuanunited · 22 Dec 2011 at 17:38

I managed to get a slim bluray drive about six months ago. Slightly noisier but not really noticeable.
Cost about £40 from a competitor

GJM · 23 Dec 2011 at 08:48

Thanks guys.

Found one on OcUK i think:
http://www.overclockers.co.uk/showproduct.php?prodid=CB-032-AK&groupid=1929&catid=1928&subcat=

scwilson · 23 Dec 2011 at 14:12

I was thikning about adding one to my Antec ISK300-150 but didn't bother in the end. I can move Blu-Ray ISO and media files round via USB or network. If I really need a CD/DVD for any reason, just rip it, copy it across and mount with Virtual CloneDrive. I have another main desktop machine though

pumaz · 23 Dec 2011 at 17:25

If you don't use a optical drive much you would be far better off just buying a USB powered external drive as they're cheaper and it will give you more options for 3.5" hard drive and better cooling etc.