NEC 16X Double Layer DVD?RW Drive, Black, Model ND-3500A BK, OEM

[scuzzy]

I first researched the subject. Everyone else is pretty much getting the same results. I believe NEC's warning is for those who purchase their computers through Dell and the like, not for those who build their own systems.

[Whizbang]

I first researched the subject. Everyone else is pretty much getting the same results. I believe NEC's warning is for those who purchase their computers through Dell and the like, not for those who build their own systems.

We probably do not need to go there.  The implications could be libelous.   ;)  

Actually,  hardware manufacturers do prefer that the computer owner contact the computer manufacturer first.  I suppose that is part of the reason.

[Carskick]

I just went to go ahead and update mine after reading your poast, and I noticed the new firmware site download says:

"ND-3500A(G) Firmwareupdate 2.19 (422.34 Kb)"

G is recognized! I'll let you know how it goes.

Edit: After reading the steps, I decided not to do it. I'm not in the mood to disconnect the slave drive and all that stuff. Eh, I might do it later. We will see.

[scuzzy]

When I first saw the steps it looked like a daunting procedure, but it's very easy. Here's the necessary steps condensed:

1. Through Device Manager disable the slave optical drive (right-click on the device and select 'disable')
2. Run the software to upgrade the firmware (2 or 3 clicks and it's done)
3. Re-enable the slave drive (in Device Manager right-click on the device and select 'enable')

If the NEC happens to be the slave drive then you don't need to disable the master drive, but it won't hurt anything if you do.

That's it - nice, quick and simple, and there's no reason to physically disconnect anything. If you take your time the whole thing will take about a minute. Just make sure that no CDs or DVDs are in any optical drive at the time you upgrade.

Although you upgrade the firmware at your own risk (whether the drive is retail or OEM), all it takes is a little common sense to ensure things go right. For example, don't flash the drive while you're uploading photos, while you're surfing the Internet, or while you're scanning your drives for spyware. In other words, don't multi-task while upgrading.  It's also not a good idea to flash the drive during a storm unless you're hooked up to a dependable UPS.