Plextor PX-W2410TU, 241040U, PlexWriter 24/20/40U Installation And User Manual

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Model PX-W2410TU (External)
Record Your Serial Number
For future reference, record the serial number and the TLA code (found on your drive’s label) in the space provided below.
TLA/Firmware Revision Number
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Plextor reserves the right to make improvements in the products described in this
manual at any time without prior notice.
Plextor makes no representation or warranties with respect to the contents hereof
and specifically disclaims any implied warranties of merchantability or fitness for
any particular purpose. Further, Plextor Corp. reserves the right to revise this manual
and to make changes in its content without obligation to notify any person or
organization of such revision or change.
This manual is copyrighted, all rights reserved. It may not be copied, photocopied, translated, or reduced to any electronic medium or machine-readable form without
Plextors prior permission.
Manual copyright ©2001, Plextor Corp. Second edition, February 2002.
Licenses and Trademarks
All licenses and trademarks are property of their respective owners.
Page 3
Ü
FCC NOTICE
This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class B digital devi ce, pursuant to Part 15 of the FC C Rules. These limits are designed to provide reasonable protection against harmful interference in a residential installation. This equipment generates, uses, and can radiate radio frequency energy, and, if not installed and used in accor d ance with the instructions, ma y cause harmful interference to radio communications. However, there is no guarantee interference will not occur in a particular installation. If this equipment causes harmful interference to radio or television reception, which can be determined by turning the equipment off and on, th e user is encouraged to try to correct the interference by one or more of the following measures:
Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna.
Increase the separation bet ween the equipment and receiver.
Connect the equipment into an outlet on a circuit different from that to which the receiver is
connected. Consult the dealer or an experienced radio/TV technician for help.
Any changes or modifications should be approved by the party responsible for compliance of FCC Rules; otherwise, the user loses authority to operate t he equipment.
CAUTION
specified herein may result in hazardous radiation exposure.
The laser beam emitted from the optical pickup is invisible. Accordingly:
: Use of controls or adjustments or performance of procedures other than those
Do not open the optical pickup housing. Obtain service only from Plextor-a uthorized personnel.
LASER INFORMATION
These produ cts have been designed and manufactured according to IEC 825-1 on the Saf ety of Laser products. This p roduct comes under Class 1 Laser Products. A Laser Caution Marking is attached on the top of the internal drive model: Caution: Invisible laser radiation when open. Avoid direct exposure to beam.
CAUTION
: To disconnect the CD drive from an electrical current, pull out the power plug.
VORSICHT
Zur Einhaltung der Funk-Entstörung von nicht selbständig betreibbaren Hochfrequenzgeräten (periphere Anlagenkomponenten).
Dieses Gerät entspricht als Einzelgerät den Funk-Entstöranforderungen der Postverfügung Nr. 243/1991. Wird das Gerät innerhalb einer Anlage zusammen mit anderen Geräten betrieben, so muss bei Inanspruchnahme der Allgemeinen (Betriebs-) genehmigung” nach der BMPT-AmtsblVfg Nr. 243/1991 die ges amte Anlage folgenden Richtlinien entsprechen:
Dies ist bei der Zusammensetzung einer Anlage (z.B. Computersystem) aus nur einzeln geprüften Geräten nicht immer erfüllt.
: DIE TRENNUNG VOM NETZ ERFOLGT DURCH ZIEHEN DES NETZSTECK ERS.
G-Vfg.243
Grenzwertklas se B der EN55022 Auflagen nach § 2 der BMPT-AmtsblVfg 243/1991
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Table of Contents
1. Getting Started................................................................................................. 1
About this Manual.............................................................................................. 1
Meet Your PlexWriter 24/10/40U...................................................................... 1
What the PlexWriter 24/10/40U Does ...........................................................1
Minimum Configuration to Use the PlexWriter 24/10/40U........................... 2
What You Can Do with the PlexWriter 24/10/40U........................................2
Save Your Box!.............................................................................................. 3
What's in the Box............................................................................................... 3
PlexWriter Drive Features and Controls............................................................ 4
Front Panel..................................................................................................... 4
Rear Panel...................................................................................................... 5
About SimpliCD and Roxio Software................................................................6
Precautions......................................................................................................... 6
2. Connecting Your PlexWriter..........................................................................9
Determine Your Computers Operating System................................................9
Connect the PlexWriter Drive............................................................................10
Record the Serial Number and TLA Code..................................................... 10
Install in Windows XP, Windows 2000 or Windows ME.............................. 10
If You Have Windows 98SE.......................................................................... 11
Make Sure the Drive Is Recognized................................................................... 12
If You Have a Macintosh................................................................................... 12
3. Installing and Using Software......................................................................... 13
Install Device Drivers (Windows 98SE Only) ...................................................13
Install Applications Software............................................................................. 14
SimpliCD ....................................................................................................... 14
Roxio.............................................................................................................. 15
Other Software............................................................................................... 15
4. Using Your PlexWriter.................................................................................... 17
What Media to Use ............................................................................................ 17
Tray Loading and Operation.............................................................................. 18
Handling CD Media....................................................................................... 18
Cleaning Discs ............................................................................................... 19
Playing Audio CDs............................................................................................ 19
Writing to CD-R and CD-RW Media ................................................................ 21
Advantages of BURN-Proof Technology.......................................................... 21
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Table of Contents
5. Maintenance and Troubleshooting.................................................................23
Displaying the Serial Number............................................................................ 23
Upgrading Firmware.......................................................................................... 23
Troubleshooting .................................................................................................24
Troubleshooting: General...............................................................................24
Troubleshooting: Reading Discs.................................................................... 25
Troubleshooting: Writing CD-R and CD-RW Discs......................................27
Troubleshooting: Playing Audio Discs..........................................................32
Troubleshooting for Macintosh Users............................................................ 33
6. Frequently Asked Questions about Writing .................................................. 35
Appendix A: PlexWriter Specifications..............................................................37
Appendix B: Technical Support..........................................................................41
How to Contact Us............................................................................................. 41
Before You E-mail/Log On/FAX/Call...............................................................42
Returns...............................................................................................................42
Appendix C: Helpful Contacts............................................................................ 43
Contacts for CD-R and CD-RW Components.................................................... 43
Contacts for PC Vendors....................................................................................44
Appendix D: Warranty........................................................................................45
Index......................................................................................................................47
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PlexWriter 24/10/40U Installation and Users Manual
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1. Getting Started
Congratulations! Thank you for purchasing the PlexWriter 24/10/40U, a reliable, high-performance external CD rewriter, recorder and reader that connects to your computer with a USB cable. We appreciate the confidence you have shown in us. Our goal is to put youand keep you—on the leading edge of CD technology.
About this Manual
This manual explains how to connect and use your external PlexWriter 24/10/40U drive. With USB, the installation process is simple. And i f you have problems, fear not. We have successfully walked through installation with millions of customers who previously had lived in mortal terror of their computer.
Please read this manual carefully and keep it handy for easy reference. Use the manual for installation, operation and troubleshooting. See your dealer or call Plextors Technical Support Department if your drive needs service. And if you run into a problem that doesn't seem to be covered, please contact us. (See Appendix B: Technical Support for the different ways you can contact us.) You will be connected to our friendly, helpful band of tech support engineers, people who know their stuff. What might seem like an uncooperative drive to you could very well be a 30-second fix to them. But we will never know unless you contact us.
Meet Your PlexWriter 24/10/40U
The PlexWriter 24/10/40U is a CD-ReWritable drive that provides professional quality CD performance for writing, rewriting and reading.
What the PlexWriter 24/10/40U Does
The PlexWriter 24/10/40U writes to CD-R (recordable CD) media at up to 24X speed, and it writes to high-speed CD-RW (rewritable CD) media at up to 10X speed. (Naturally, the drive can also write to normal speed CD-RW media at 4X speeds.) It reads all CD-ROM and CD-R media at a maximum of 40X speed with an average access time of less than 140 milliseconds. Maximum read speed of CD-RW media is 32X.
Reliable writing is virtually guaranteed, thanks to the unique PoweRec-II cir c uitry that automatically detects the type of media being recorded and adjusts the PlexWriter 24/10/40U to provide the optimum laser power and length of burn. The PlexWriter 24/10/40U has a high-speed Universal Serial Bus (USB) 2.0 interface. You can also use it with USB version 1.1 (although with USB 1.1 the drives top performance is 4X for CD-R, 4X for CD-RW, and 6X for reading a CD-ROM). The PlexWriter 24/10/40U supports the ATAPI-5 command set.
PlexWriter 24/10/40U Installation and Users Manual 1
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Section 1. Getting Started
The PlexWriter 24/10/40U is compatible with Orange Book, Parts II and III. It is fully MMC-compliant, and supports Track-at-Once, Disc-at-Once, Multi-Session, as well as variable and fixed packet writing.
The PlexWriter 24/10/40U supports Running OPC (ROPC) and is compatible with Windows Plu g & Play. Flash memory allows upgrading the PlexWriter 24/10/40U to the latest firmware revision (available from the Plextor web site) without opening the computer or physically accessing the drive. New BURN-Proof technology
eliminates buffer underrun errors, which means you can safely use your computer for other things while youre writing to a CD-R or CD-RW disc. And Plextor backs up this remarkable drive with a one-year full warranty on parts and labor, and unlimited toll-free tech support.
Minimum Configuration to Use the PlexWriter 24/10/40U
PC Configuration:
Computer: Pentium 300-MHz CPU or faster.
Mi n imu m R AM: 64 MB.
USB port: USB 2.0 or 1.1
Hard disk size: Minimum 800 MB. To write to a CD in image mode (that is, to
write an image of a CD to your hard disk), you need 1 GB of free space. Separate CD-ROM drive: If you want to copy another CD directly to the
PlexWriter. Operating system: Windows 98SE (Second Edition), Windows 2000, Windows
ME, or Windows XP.
NOTE
: You must have one of these operating systems. In the case of Windows 98,
you must have Windows 98SE or later, and you need the Plextor USB driver.
Macintosh Configuration:
Macintosh with USB port and OS 8.6-9.x (provides USB 1.1) or with OS X (provides USB 2.0).
What You Can Do with the PlexWriter 24/10/40U
Just look at some of the things you can do with your PlexWriter 24/10/40U:
Record data or audio onto writable or rewritable CD media.
Play music CDs.
Save photos and other images on rewritable or writable CDs.
Create a CD sneakernet to share information with colleaguesjust use
software such as Roxio DirectCD to drag and drop files onto CD-R or CD-RW media, then continue adding files and sharing the same CD disc. Archive images and video to CD.
Master new software programs on CD.
Periodically back up your computer's hard disk, including oper ating system,
hardware configuration, registry, program files and data.
BURN-Proof is a licensed technology from Sanyo Electric Co., Ltd.
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PlexWriter 24/10/40U Installation and Users Manual
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Section 1. Getting Started
What's in the Box
What you find in your Pl ext o r bo x depends on what the company that sold you the box put inor took outwhile the Plextor drive was in their possession.
Plextor currently sells its PlexWriter 24/10/40U drive in this configuration:
PlexWriter 24/10/40U CD-RW drive
AC Adapter and power cord
USB cable
Emergency eject stick
1 piece of approved high-speed CD-RW media
1 piece of approved CD-R media
Plextor CD with authoring software bundle
PlexWriter 24/10/40U Installation and Users Manual
If the security sticker on top of your box is cut, there may be a good reason: for example, a dealer may have added other components or software. Carefully check the contents to ensure nothing has been removed. If something is missing, contact the party from whom you purchased the box for an explanation.
NOTE
: This applies to the Plextor retail box. Your drive may have been shipped in a different box with other contents, depending on whom you purchased the drive from and what they included inside the box.
Save Your Box!
Be sure to save the box after you have installed your PlexWriter drive. The box and its packaging material were designed and drop tested to ensure your PlexWriter can endure rough treatment and still arrive in working order.
We hope you will never have to ship your drive back to us. If you do, however, it's best to send it packaged in the original box. Some of our customers have not held on to their b oxes and have had to resort to less-than-secure methods to get drives back to us.
We cannot assume liability for any damage your drive sustains during shipment. Therefore, please ship your drive in the safest manner possible.
Before shipping your drive, refer to the support section of the Plextor web site for pointers. The web site is at: http://www.plextor.com
If you did not receive a box (for example, your drive came pre-installed in a computer), we recommend you pay a packaging store (such as Mail Boxes Etc.) to ship your drive. If you don’t have a packaging store in your area, ask for packaging pointers when you contact us to get an RMA number before returning any drive. You can contact our RMA Department at rmasupport@plextor.com; or by calling us at 800-886-3935; or by fax at 303­708-0709.
PlexWriter 24/10/40U Installation and Users Manual 3
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Section 1. Getting Started
PlexWriter Drive Features and Controls
Before proceeding, become familiar with the controls and features of your PlexWriter drive. Match the parts of your drive to the illustrations below.
Front Panel
Tray front door: Attached to tray drawer.
Headphone jack: Stereo mini-jack for headphones and powered speakers.
Volume control: Controls volume of headphone jack.
LED indicator: Illumi nated to indicate drive operation:
Figure 1: Front Panel of the PlexWriter 24/10/40U Drive
Green: Power is on and a disc in the drive; also green when BURN-Proof is operating.
Yellow: Reading a disc
Orange: Writing data to disc. Changes blinking interval to indicate different writing speeds. (1 blink every 50 milliseconds indicates 24X writing speed. Every 100 milliseconds indicates 20X, and every 150 milliseconds indicates writing speed is 4–16X.)
Eject button: Push once to eject tray. Push again to insert the tray back into the PlexWriter. To prevent wear on the drive, always use the Eject button to insert the tray.
Emergency eject hole: Insert emergency eject stick, paper clip, or other thin, rigid object to eject tray if automatic eject button does not work. Turn OFF the PlexWriters power before using this feature.
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Rear Panel
Section 1. Getting Started
Figure 2: Rear Panel of the PlexWriter 24/10/40U Drive
Analog audio output connectors: Output of analog stereo signal. Connect a sound board or audio amplifier here, if desired. Connectors are standard RCA type.
Power switch: Slide this switch to turn power on or off. 0 is off, 1 is on.
Power connector: Connect the AC Adapter here.
CAUTION
: Use only the AC Adapter shipped with your PlexWriter.
USB connector: Connect the USB cable here.
CAUTION
: Use only the USB cable shipped with your PlexWriter.
PlexWriter 24/10/40U Installation and Users Manual 5
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Section 1. Getting Started
About SimpliCD and Roxio Software
In order to create CD-R and CD-RW discs you will need to have mastering, p acket writing, or duplication software installed on your computer system. If you purchased your drive from Plextor, youll find two software packages, SimpliCD and Roxio, that contain this software.
Mastering software: Mastering software is used to create specific disc formats such as data, audio, video, mixed mode, etc. Both SimpliCD and Roxio include this software.
Packet writing software: Another type of software writes packets. This software allows you to format a CD (similar to the procedure used with floppy disks). Then you can drag and drop files straight to a CD, use the Send To function on your computer, or use copy and paste to place files on the CD-R or CD-RW disc. This type of software turns your CD-R/RW disc into a giant floppy. With this drive, Plextor has included Roxios DirectCD software for packet writing software. SimpliCD does not have packet writing software.
Duplication software : Yet another type of software copies from CD to CD. However, not all CDs can be duplicated. CDs created with packet writing software cannot be replicated with duplication software. (The packet writing technology used to create those discs limits this function. It i s not the fa ult of t he duplication software or your hardware.) In addition, certain CD manufacturers may use special programs, that prevent you from making a backup copy of the original disc. Both SimpliCD and Roxio include duplication software.
There are also many other software packages on the market. You can check our web site (www.plextor.com
) for an updated list of software that supports your drive.
Precautions
Like the rest of your computer system, your PlexWriter requires reasonable care in its installation and use.
Keep the area around your drive clean from dust, smoke, and other contaminants.
Do not allow moisture or liquids, including water or cleaning fluids, to touch the drive. Thinner, benzene, or alcohol-based solvents can mar your drives surface.
Do not drop or jolt the drive.
Do not move, carry or transport a disc in the drive because this can cause damage.
Do not attempt to open the drive and service it yourself. Removin g the cover may expose you to harmful electrical voltages or the laser beam. For your safe ty, entrust service to Plextor-authorized service personnel only.
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PlexWriter 24/10/40U Installation and Users Manual
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Section 1. Getting Started
Keep your CD discs free of dirt or other contaminants, by storing them in jewel cases. Use only industry-standard discs. Do not insert dirty, warped, poorly balanced, or cracked discs into the drive.
Do not clean discs using a circular motion. Instead, use a radial motion: start at the center of the disc and proceed to the outer edge.
CAUTION
does not guarantee the drive’s performance in a vertical position.
: Install your PlexWriter so it sits horizontally on your desk or shelf. Plextor
Figure 3. Operate Your PlexWriter in a Horizontal Position
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Section 1. Getting Started
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2. Connecting Your PlexWriter
This chapter explains how to physically connect the PlexWriter to your computer. In general, this is what you ll do:
1. Determine if your computer is running the Windows XP, 2 000, ME, or 98SE
operating system. If you have a Macintosh, ensure tha t it is runnin g the Macintosh OS 8.6 or higher (for USB 1.1) or OS X (for USB 2.0).
If you have W indows XP, 2000, or ME, go to step 2 now.
If you have Windo ws 98S E: a) Insert the bundled Plextor Setup Disc in your CD-ROM drive. b) Go to the Software Installation screen, and click on the button titled USB Drivers. c) Follow the prompts through the USB driver installation routine. d) Reboot your computer.
2. Connect the AC Adapter to an electrical outlet and to the PlexWriter.
3. Turn the PlexWriters power switch ON.
4. Connect the USB cable from your PlexWriter 24/10/40U drive to the computer.
That’s all there is to it! We’ll go over the procedure in more detail in the next few pages.
If you have a PC, start here. If you have a M acintosh, go to If You Have a Macintosh on page 12.
Determine Your Computer’s Operating System
To determine which operating syste m your computer uses:
1. Select the Start menu, then select Programs and choose Windows Explorer.
2. In Windows Explorer, select Help. The About line shows your operating system.
(For example, About Windows 2000.”)
NOTE
: Your computer must be running Windows 98SE, Windows 2000, Windows ME or Windows XP. If you are not running one of these operating systems you cannot use the PlexWriter 24/10/40U. You cannot use the PlexWriter 24/10/40U with early versions of Windows 98; you must use Windows 98SE (Second Edition). Windows NT does not support USB, so you cannot use the PlexWriter 24/10/40U if you have Windows NT.
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Section 2. Installing Your PlexWriter
Connect the PlexWriter Drive
Before proceeding to install the PlexWriter drive on your personal computer, record the serial number.
Record the Serial Number and TLA Code
Record the serial number and TLA number of your drive on the inside front cover of this manual.
Install in Windows XP, Windows 2000 or Windows ME
If you have a computer with Windows XP, Windows 2000 or Windows ME, use the following procedure to install your PlexWriter USB drive:
1. Turn ON your computer system.
2. Connect the AC Adapter to your PlexWriter as shown in Figure 4.
3. Turn the PlexWriters power switch ON.
4. Connect the USB cable from your PlexWriter 24/10/40U drive to the computer.
Figure 4. Connecting the AC Adapter and USB Cable
The drive is automatically recognized by the computer.
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Section 2. Installing Your PlexWriter
If You Have Windows 98SE
If you have a computer with Windows 98SE, use the following procedure to install your PlexWriter USB drive:
1. Turn ON your computer system and insert the bundled Plextor Setup Disc in your
CD-ROM drive. Go to the Software Installation screen, and click on the button titled USB Drivers. Follow the prompts through the USB driver installation routine. Reboot your computer.
2. Connect the AC Adapter to your PlexWriter as shown in Figure 4.
3. Turn the PlexWriters power switch ON.
4. Connect the USB cable from your PlexWriter 24/10/40U drive to the computer.
The procedure above loads the necessary drivers into the computer. After you follow this procedure, your PlexWriter drive should be recognized automatically by the Windows 98SE operating system on your computer.
Manual Driver Installation
If you have difficulty with the USB driver installation, you can manually install the driver. To install the USB driver manually:
1. Use Windows Explorer to navigate to the \Drivers\ folder on the Plextor Setup
Disc.
2. Double-click on the file TPPINST.EXE. This installs the USB driver for Windows 98SE.
Getting the Driver for Windows 98SE
If you do not have a Plextor Setup CD-ROM disc, you can download the US B drivers for Windows 98SE. They are available from the Plextor web site. Go to http://www.plextor.com Support\Downloads\Drivers\USB Driver for Win98 SE
and follow the links from the home page to
.
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Section 2. Installing Your PlexWriter
Make Sure the Drive Is Recognized
After installation, make sure the PlexWriter drive is recognized by your computer. To check whether it is recognized:
To see if the drive is recognized in Windows:
1. Turn the computer ON. After the computer boots up, you should see the Windows display.
2. Open Windows Explorer or My Computer and ensure there is an icon for the PlexWriter. The PlexWriter may be D: or E: or another designator.
3. In Windows 98SE, or ME, once the system comes up click the Start button, then Settings, then Control Panel, then double-click on System icon, then click on Device Mana ger tab. Click the + sign next t o the CD-ROM heading and look at the PLEXTOR CD-R PX-W2410TA entry underneath.
-or­In Windows XP or 2000, right-click on the My Computer icon and select Properties. Click on the Hardware tab, then click on the Device Manager button. Click the + sign next to the CD-ROM heading and look at the PLEXTOR CD-R PX-W2410TA entry underneath.
4. If you do not see this drive listed as one of the devices, or if it has a yellow diamond with an exclamation point (!), contact our Technical Support group at 1­800-886-3935, or email us at support@Plextor.com. Well give you help troubleshooting your USB controller or driver compatibility or conflicts. It may just be a matter of obtaining the latest USB driver, or a motherboard BIOS update, from the motherboard manufacturer.
If You Have a Macintosh
If you have a Macintosh, use the following procedure to install your PlexWriter USB drive:
1. Turn on the Macintosh.
2. Ensure you are running Macintosh OS 8.6 or higher (for USB 1.1) or OS X (for USB 2.0).
3. Connect the AC Adapter to your PlexWriter.
4. Turn the PlexWriters power switch ON.
5. Connect the USB cable from your PlexWriter 24/10/40U drive to the Macintosh computer.
The Macintosh automatically recognizes the PlexWriter, and you should be ready to use the drive.
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3. Installing and Using Software
There's one more step before you can begin to use your PlexWriter drive: you need to install special software on your computer. There are two software types:
Device driver: This is a software program that allows your computer to interact with the PlexWriter drive. Drivers are included in Windows XP, 2000, and ME that let you operate your PlexWriter as a CD-ROM device (reader). The device driver is installed automatically by the operating system as long as the USB interface is enabled in your systems motherboard BIOS. So you probably don’t have to do anything special if you have Windows XP, 2000, or ME.
If you have Windows 98SE, drivers are available on the Plextor Setup CD-ROM disc. If you dont have this disc, you can download the USB drivers for Windows 98SE from the Plextor web site. Go to http://www.plextor.com links from the home page to Support\Downloads\Drivers\USB Driver for Win98 SE.
Application software : T hese are software programs for specific tasks, such as mastering CDs, backing up your hard disk or files, capturing audio, duplicating CDs, and more. If you purchased a retail version of the PlexWriter, youll find these applications in the SimpliCD and Roxio software. Other applications are available from other vendors.
If you have any problems at all, our technical support staff will help you.
and follow the
Install Device Drivers (Windows 98SE Only)
In Windows, your PlexWriter acts as a "CD-ROM Drive" for purposes of installation and setup. In some cases, you will need to install additional so ft ware to make use of all of the features of the PlexWriter.
Using the PlexWriter on a PC:
As CD-ROM: The computers operating system, whether it is Windows XP, Windows 2000, or Windows ME, supplies a generic USB device driver that allows the PlexWriter to function as a standard CD-ROM drive. You don’t need to install anything else. If you have W i ndows 98SE, you need to instal l a special USB driver. You’ll find this driver on the Plextor Setup Disc, or you can get it from the Plextor web site at http://www.plextor.com. Support\Downloads\Drivers\USB Driver for Win98 SE
As a CD-R or CD-RW device: In order to write to CD-R or CD-RW media, you will need additional software such as SimpliCD or Roxio. If you purchased a retail version of the PlexWriter, this software is supplied.
PlexWriter 24/10/40U Installation and Users Manual 13
(Follow the links from the home page to
.)
Page 20
Section 3. Installing and Using Software
Using the PlexWriter on a Macintosh:
Whether using the PlexWriter as a standard CD-ROM or as a CD-R or CD­RW device, you will need additional drivers or soft ware b e sides those that are part of the Macintosh operating system. You will need to purchase this software separately. The software compatibility list is available from Plextors web site at www.plextor.com
.
Before installing any software, check that the USB cable connection between your PlexWriter and the computer is correct, and the PlexWriter is recognized by your system.
Install Applications Software
Installing applications software lets you take advantage of the PlexWriters ability to record on CD-R or CD-RW media. You’ll find these applicatio ns i n the SimpliCD and Roxio software supplied by Plextor.
Applications software lets you use your PlexWriter drive in exciti ng new ways.
Packet writing software: This type of application lets you use your PlexWriter as an enormous floppy drive. You can drag and drop files straight to a CD-R or CD-RW disc. (Roxio includes packet writing software; SimpliCD does not.)
Mastering software: In conjunction with your PlexWriter drive, mastering software lets you create discs in specific formats, such as audio, data, mixed mode, and others.
Duplication software : This software lets you copy CDs.
NOTE
: If you use a CD-R disc with packet writing software, you cant use that disc later with mastering software (and vice versa). CD-RW discs also must be used with either one type of software or the other. You can, however, erase a CD-RW disc and use it againand once a disc is erased, you can use it with
either
type of software.
SimpliCD
SimpliCD from Oak Techno logies contains software for mastering and duplicati on. It has three main applications:
SimpliCD Copy: Lets you make an identical copy of any disc. It makes exact copies of any data, audio or video CD.
SimpliCD Recorder: This component of SimpliCD lets you make CDs containing audio, video and slide shows, including audio discs playable in your car or home stereo. You can also make digital audio files (MP3, WAV or WMA) from audio CDs.
SimpliCD ROM: Lets you save your computer files onto re cordable CD media to create computer data discs, for archiving or distributing data. SimpliCD ROM is easily accessed as a folder on your desktop and within Windows Explorer.
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Section 3. Installing and Using Software
For more information, and to learn how to use these powerful app lications, install SimpliCD on your PC and refer to the online help guide.
Roxio
Roxio has mastering, packet writing, and duplication software. There are three main Roxio applications:
CD Copier: Lets you copy any CD.
DirectCD Format Utility: Prepares a CD-R or CD-RW disc so you can directly copy files to it in much the same way that you copy files to a floppy disk or removable drive. You can then use Windows Explorer, or any other program that can read from and write to a drive letter, to copy files to a CD. You can also recover files from damaged CDs, and even repair CDs.
EasyCD Creator: Lets you make your own CDs, including music CDs that can be played on your home or car stereo CD player, or data CDs for storing computer data such as the files and folders on your hard disk.
When you install Roxio, each application has an online help guide that shows how to use it.
Other Software
Besides SimpliCD and Roxio, you can use other software with your PlexWriter. A list of various software packages that you can use with your Plextor drive can be found in the Support/Compatibility section of www.plextor.com software that supports the PlexWriter under other operating systems. You will need to purchase this software separatel y.
. Here youll find
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4. Using Your PlexWrit er
This chapter explains how to use your PlexWriter drive and how to load, handle and care for your CDs.
CAUTION
guarantee the drives performance in a vertical position.
: Ensure your PlexWriter is in a horizontal position. Plextor does not
What Media to Use
Use the right media! Your PlexWriter drive's capabilities change depending on which type of compact disc you use. It currently supports these types:
CD-ROM: You can immediately play or read prerecorded discs, such as audio CDs and data discs.
CD-R: Recordable CD. You can record on these discs, but only once. You can also read them.
CD-RW: High-speed ReWritable CD. These discs support recording and re­recording (up to 1,000 times). You can also read them.
To achieve 24X CD-R writing speed you must use certified 24X media; and to achieve 10X CD-RW writing speed you must use high-speed CD-RW media. See Recommended Media on page 37 for a list of approved media at the time this manual was printed, and see the Plextor web site at http://www.plextor.com updated list.
for an
You can write to high-speed CD-RW discs only on drives that support this new media. Drives that are capable of writing to high-speed CD-RW media, such as the PlexWriter 24/10/40U , are identified by a Compact Disc ReWritable High Speed logo.
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Section 4. Using Your PlexWriter
Tray Loading and Operation
To load and unload the tray:
1. While the PlexWriter drive is powered up, push the Eject button on the front
panel. The tray drawer slides out in 3–4 seconds.
Figure 5: Loading the Tray
2. Lay a blank CD in the depression in the tray, label side up. The CD should lie flat
in the tray.
3. Press the Eject button again and the tray will slide shut within seconds.
NOTE
: Always use the Eject button to close the tray in a smooth and secure manner. Closing the tray by pressing the front of the drawer by hand is not recommended and risks damage or premature wearing of the mechanism and your CDs.
Handling CD Media
Take care when handling blank CD-R and CD-RW media. Dust, scratches, and fingerprints on either side of the disc can cause write errors during recording. When picking up or holding blank media you can either place your fingers along the outer edge of the disc, or place one finger through the center hole and one finger on the outer edge. Once you have finished creating a disc, label it by writing on the top using per manent ink.
CAUTION
conforms to the ASTM D-4236 standard. Some permanent markers will damage the media. Also, do not press too hard when writing on the disc.
CAUTION
weight of the label may unbalance the disc and cause write errors during recording or read errors during reading.
: We recommend using a “non-toxic marker, such as a Sharpie pen, that
: We do not recommend placing self-sticking CD-R labels on the disc. The
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Section 4. Using Your PlexWriter
Cleaning Discs
For proper read and write performance, your CD-R, CD-RW, and CD-ROM discs must be clean. Trying to record on a dirty disc may result in a failed session and ruin the disc.
To clean the disc, wipe the disc using a clean, soft cotton cloth to remove surface dirt such as fingerprints. Use a straight-line motion, wiping fro m the center out. Do not wipe the disc in a circular motion.
Figure 6: Wipe the Disc from the Center Outward
HINT:
Keep your frequently used discs in jewel cases at all times to prevent them
from becoming dirty or damaged.
Playing Audio CDs
In order to listen to an audio CD, you can listen through the sound board in your computer, or connect headphones to the jack on the PlexWriter. Even if you’re just using headphones, both the AC adapter and the USB cable must be attached in order for the drive to operate.
There are two types of audio you may encounter:
CD-Audio: This comes from audio discs (like the ones used by your home stereo) that are translated directly by your PlexWriter into sound. Although, in most cases a sound board and speakers are used to hear this audio, you can also listen to it by simply plugging a set of headphones or powered speakers into the headphone jack on the front of your drive. You can control audio playback through software, and ad just the volume with the front-panel volume control.
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Section 4. Using Your PlexWriter
Figure 7: Connections for Playing Audio Using the Headphone Jack
Sound board audio: This co mes from data files that may be present on a disc, such as a WAV, WMA or MP3 files, that are transferred from the CD to your computer via the USB interface. The sound board translates the data from the digital files into analog sound. If you do not have a sound board, you will not be able to hear this form of audio from your PlexWriter.
To listen to music through the computers sound bo ard, you can cont rol volume with the volume control on the Windows Taskbar. You can also mute the sound on your sound board and listen to music through headphones or self-powered speakers.
NOTE
: The volume control on the front panel of your drive adjusts only the sound level of the headphone jack. It has no impact on the volume level in your computer or at the rear panel audio output connectors.
Playing a CD Using Utilities
You can use SimpliCD to play CDs. Other alternatives for playing CDs include audio utilities designed into your operating system (Media Player or CD Player in Windows, for instance) or various other utilities that can be purchased commercially.
Playing a CD On a Macintosh
Mac users can run a program such as CDT Remote (which is typically included with FWBs CD-ROM toolkit).
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Section 4. Using Your PlexWriter
Writing to CD-R and CD-RW Media
In conjunction with your PlexWriter drive, mastering or packet writing software such as that contained in SimpliCD, EasyCD Creator, and DirectCD allow you to write audio, video, data, or other information to writable (CD-R) or rewritable (CD-RW) media. The PlexWriter 24/10/40U writes to new high-speed CD-RW media, as well as to conventional CD-RW media.
IMPORTANT:
conventional and the new high-speed CD-RW discs. Drives manufactured before 1997 cannot read CD-RW discs.
Most CD-ROM drives manufactured since 1997 can read both
Plextor CD-ROM drives beginning with the 12/20PleX and newer can read CD-RW discs, including the new, high-speed discs.
Advantages of BURN-Proof Technology
The PlexWriter 24/10/40U incorporates BURN-Proof (Buffer Under-Run Proof ) technology, which guarantees that you can write discs at high speed, and still use your computer for o ther tasks while you’re writing.
The Problem: When you use a CD Recordable or CD ReWritable drive to write to a CD-R or CD-RW disc, the disc needs a constant, steady flow of data to make a successful write. If this flow is interrupted, you wind up with a d isc that is unusable. Youve just created a coaster for your table!
To prevent the interruption of data, every CD-R/RW drive has a buffer, a memory chip that acts as a kind of holding area. (T ypically, the buffer size is 2 MB or 4 MB.) However, this buffer can be emptied quickly when you write at high speeds. It can also be emptied if you use other applications (like surfing the Internet or playing games or watching movies) while writing; or if your so urce drive cannot read data fast enough because of its read ability; or because the source disc is poor quality and read errors slow down the data streaming. Any of these factors can produce what is known as buffer underrun error. Simply put, the buffer is drained of data, the flow to the disc is interruptedand you wind up with a useless disc.
The Solution—BURN-Proof: This revolutionary technology compensates for any interruption in data flow to the disc. BURN-Proof technology “remembers” where writing stopped on the disc when the data flow was interrupted, then restarts writing in the same place once the data is available again. The result is that your disc is written successfully.
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Section 4. Using Your PlexWriter
What BURN-Proof Means to You: BURN-Proof technology in your PlexWriter 24/10/40U means you can safely use your computer for other things while youre writing to a CD-R or CD-RW disc. It reduces the dreaded “coaster effect, and lets you multitask freely and easily without bringing the burn to a screeching halt. All of this is done seamlessly, so you successfully create CDs on the first attempt.
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5. Maintenance and Troubleshooting
This chapter explains maintenance and troubleshooting procedures for your PlexWriter drive.
With proper maintenance, you can prevent problems. If problems arise, you can often solve many simple problems on your own, rather than wait for assistance from a Plextor representative.
TIP
: Read all of the section that pertains to you (PC or Macintosh). Many of the problems discussed happen only rarely, and others may seem as if they do not pertain to you. However, if you are familiar with the variety of problems that can occur, you will be better prepared to deal with them if they do occur.
Displaying the Serial Number
In addition to being able to view the serial number on the PlexWriter itself, you can view the serial number in Windows. To display the serial number:
1. Open My Computer.
2. Right-click on the icon for the PlexWriter drive and select Properties.
3. Select the Details tab and view the drives serial number.
Upgrading Firmware
Plextor creates firmware revisions to meet the peculiar needs of large computer manufacturers. It is rare that these will impact the performance or operation of your PlexWriter drive. However, we advise that our customers always update drives with the latest available firmware. Before troubleshooting a possib le p r oblem with your drive please make sure to visit our web site at www.plextor.com the latest firmware.
NOTE
: The current recommended media lists are matched to the current firmware
revision of the drive. So its best to keep your Plextor drives firmware up to date.
To obtain new firmware for your PlexWriter drive:
1. Go to the Plextor web site at www.plextor.com
2. Look for firmware upgrades in the Support area, on the Downloads page. There
is a description of the latest firmware revision and its intended use.
3. Download the firmware to your computer.
.
to check i f you have
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Section 5. Maintenance and Troubleshooting
To upgrade firmware:
1. Terminate any other applications be fore upgrading firmware.
2. Double-click the executable file (the filename ends in “.EXE”) that you downloaded from Plextors web site. This runs the file.
3. Accept all defaults by continuing to click on the “Next” butto n. While the ne w firmware is being loaded to the PlexWriter 24/10/40U drive, you can see the front-panel LED indicator is blinking. When the firmware has been updated, you see the message:
Firmware update has completed.
4. Reboot your computer to complete the firmware upgrade.
Troubleshooting
If you have problems during or right after installation of your PlexWriter drive, use these tips to help find the problem. You can also use these charts to help find problems that develop in existing installatio ns.
Start here if you're a PC user. If you have a Macintosh, start with page 33 and come back here if you don't find the answer on that page.
Troubleshooting: General
Troubleshooting: General Symptom Possible Causes Solutions
PlexWriter does not respond (no LED light; eject button does not work).
PlexWriter not recognized by computer.
Disc does not rotate in PlexWriter drive .
No power. Ensure the power cable is
connected securely to the PlexWriters AC Adapter.
No power. Ensure the power cable is
connected securely to the PlexWriters AC Adapter.
When the computers power is turned ON, confirm that the PlexWriters indicator LED is illuminated briefly, then is extinguished.
Wrong AC Adapter. Use only the AC Adapter shipped
with your PlexWriter.
USB cable isn’t connected.
USB cable connection is required for operation. Ensure that the USB cable is securely inserted, and is not damaged.
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Section 5. Maintenance and Troubleshooting
Troubleshooting: General Symptom Possible Causes Solutions
Cannot eject tray.
Tray is locked by mastering software.
CD was not properly set into tray and is stuck.
Refer to application documentation on how to unlock the eject feature. Turn OFF the PlexWriters power. Then, at the PlexWriters front panel, insert a thin object such as the emergency stick or a paper clip into the emergency eject hole and eject the tray.
Troubleshooting: Reading Discs
Troubleshooting: Reading Discs Symptom Possible Causes Solutions
PlexWriter drive has read errors, may not respond when accessed from My Computer or Explorer, or cannot run a program.
Defective CD-ROM, CD-R, or CD-RW disc. A fingerprint, contaminants, or scratches on the disc’s surface may prevent the drive from reading or writing data.
Disc is badly manufactured.
Bad connection between the PlexWriter drive and the computer.
Disc is inserted upside down.
Blank CD-R or CD-RW disc is inside the drive.
Clean the disc as detailed on page
19. Try a different disc.
Try a different disc.
Make sure the USB cable is securely connected to the computer and the PlexWriter. Inspect the USB cable for any signs of distress, such as kinking.
Eject the disc and load it with the label or text side up.
Remove the disc from the drive and test the drive by using another disc.
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Section 5. Maintenance and Troubleshooting
Troubleshooting: Reading Discs Symptom Possible Causes Solutions
Cannot use other CD-ROM drives to read discs written by PlexWriter.
Excessive noise. Excessive
vibration. Slow read
performance.
Trying to read a CD­RW disc in a CD-ROM drive that does not support it.
UDF reader is not installed on the system to read CD-RW or packet-written discs from a CD-ROM drive.
Session was left open on a CD-R disc and does not have a Table of Contents. CD is poorly balanced. Poorly manufactured discs or discs with poorly distributed ink on labeling cause significant vibration at high speeds because they are out of balance.
Use the PlexWriter to read CD-RW discs or use a different CD-ROM drive. Only CD-ROM drives manufactured after 1997 can read CD-RW discs.
Refer to your packet writing software online help or manual for how to obtain a UDF reader and install it on the computer where you need to access these discs.
Place this disc back into PlexWriter and use the same software originally used to write to it. Then close the session/disc. Remove the adhesive label, if present. Be careful not to damage the foil underneath. Clean the disc as detailed on page
19. If there is no foreign substance on the disc, contact the disc
manufacturer for a replacement. Read errors may also occur. If the disc label (especially adhesive labels) adds more weight to one area of the disc than another it can also cause the disc to be out of balance.
Can read only the last session of a multisession CD-R or CD-RW disc.
Import previous session or a similar feature was not enabled when the multisession disc was created.
Use CD-R or CD-RW mastering
software to import session(s). Such
features may vary in name
depending on the software being
used. Please refer to the
appropriate online help or manual
regarding this feature.
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Section 5. Maintenance and Troubleshooting
Troubleshooting: Writing CD-R and CD-RW Discs
Troubleshooting: Writing CD-R and CD-RW Discs Symptom Possible Causes Solutions
Writing error occurs.
Network is being used. Mouse was moved or
Windows screensaver activated while writing.
Other applications are running.
Power save mode is active.
Shortage of PC memory. If there is insufficient main memory in the PC, data may be swapped to the hard disk, and this can cause a buffer underrun.
Automatic thermal recalibration triggered. Some high-speed hard disks are equipped with an automatic thermal recalibration function.)
Defective CD-R or CD­RW media. CD-R or CD-RW media may be dirty, scratched, or damaged.
If necessary, enable BURN-Proof in the recording software. (Some software packages have BURN­Proof support for the PlexWriter drive permanently on, while other software allows the user to select whether it is on or off.)
If your software does not support BURN-Proof and problems occur when writing, reduce the load on CPU resources. Some ways to do this are:
Log off from the network.
Dont use the mouse.
Disable the screensaver or
power save mode.
Exit all other applications.
If necessary, enable BURN-Proof in the recording software.
Increase the PCs main memory capacity.
Turn off automatic thermal recalibration for the hard disk. Use another hard disk.
Re-Write using another CD-R or CD-RW disc.
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Section 5. Maintenance and Troubleshooting
Troubleshooting: Writing CD-R and CD-RW Discs Symptom Possible Causes Solutions
Cannot write to CD-R or CD-RW.
Using authoring software other than that bundled with PlexWriter 24/10/40U.
Use the authoring software provided with the unit.
To use other types of authoring software, contact the supplier and ensure the software supports the PlexWriter PX-W2410TU drive. Supported software lists can also be found on the Plextor web site at www.plextor.com
CD-R/RW media not appropriate.
Use CD-R/RW media supported by Plextor. Supported media lists can be found on the Plextor web site at www.plextor.com
Disc inserted upside down.
Reinsert the disc with the label right side up.
Defective CD-R/RW media.
CD-R/RW media may be dirty, scratched or damaged. Re-write using another CD-R/RW media.
Computer is short of hard disk capacity.
Generally, 1.2 to 2 times the size of the write data is required. This may vary according to the write method.
Delete files from your hard disk to free up sufficient space; or use another hard disk.
No power to PlexWriter.
Ensure the power cord and AC Adapter are securely connected
. USB cable is not connected properly
Ensure the USB cable is securely
connected between the computer
and the PlexWriter, and that the
cable is not damaged.
.
.
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Section 5. Maintenance and Troubleshooting
Troubleshooting: Writing CD-R and CD-RW Discs Symptom Possible Causes Solutions
CD-R or CD-RW software cannot detect PlexWriter.
Bad connection between USB port and PlexWriter 24/10/40U drive.
Ensure the USB cable is securely connected between the computer and the PlexWriter, and that the cable is not damaged.
Using authoring software other than that bundled with PlexWriter 24/10/40U.
Use the authoring software provided with the PlexWriter.
To use other types of authoring software, contact the supplier and ensure the software supports the PlexWriter PX-W2410TU drive. Supported software lists can also be found on the Plextor web site at www.plextor.com
.
In the case of Windows 98SE, the USB storage device driver is not
Install USB storage device driver from setup CD that is bundled with PlexWriter 24/10/40U.
installed. USB cable is not
compatible with USB
Use the USB cabled bundled with your PlexWriter drive.
2.0 or 1.1 Power is not switched
on.
Ensure LED of PlexWriter 24/10/40U is on. If LED is not on, there is no power.
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Section 5. Maintenance and Troubleshooting
Troubleshooting: Writing CD-R and CD-RW Discs Symptom Possible Causes Solutions
Cannot add information (add writing) on CD­R/RW.
Changed authoring software.
If using different authoring
software than for the previous
writing, errors may occur. Always
use the same authoring software. Short of CD-R/RW
capacity.
Capacity of standard CD-R/RW
media is limited to 650 MB (74-
min. type), including lead-in, lead-
out and TOC data. Use a different
CD-R/RW media if capacity is
insufficient on current media. Using disc written on
non-Plextor CD-R or
Use CD-R or CD-RW disc written
by the PlexWriter 24/10/40U. CD-RW drive.
Not enough disc capacity.
Capacity of a standard 74-minute
CD is limited to 650 MB.
Use different CD-R or CD-RW
media if the capacity is insufficient. The disc is written with
a CD-R or CD-RW drive from another vendor.
Use a different CD-R or CD-RW
disc.
Try to use same drive to add more
data to CD-R or CD-RW disc.
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Section 5. Maintenance and Troubleshooting
Troubleshooting: Writing CD-R and CD-RW Discs Symptom Possible Causes Solutions
Cannot write at 24X.
PlexWriter 24/10/40U drive is connected to a USB 1.1 port.
When the PlexWriter 24/10/40U is connected to a USB 1.1 port, the maximum write performance is 4X. You must be connected to a USB
2.0 port for 24/10/40 performance.
Buffer underrun occurs. Ensure the authoring software
supports BURN-Proof. If it supports BURN-Proof, make sure that BURN-Proof is enabled in the application. If your software does not support BURN-Proof and you have buffer underrun problems, reduce the load on CPU resources. Some ways to do this are:
Log off from the network.
Dont use the mouse.
Disable the screensaver or
power save mode.
Exit all other applications.
Defective CD-R media. CD-R media may be dirty,
scratched or damaged. Re-write using a different piece of CD-R media.
Using authoring software other than that bundled with PlexWriter 24/10/40U.
Use the authoring software provided with the PlexWriter.
If using other software, ensure that PlexWriter 24/10/40U is supported by the software. Contact the software supplier to confirm.
Using poor quality media.
Use the CD-R/RW media recommended by Plextor. Supported media lists can also be found on the Plextor web site at www.plextor.com
.
CD-ROM drive used cannot read data fast enough to record at higher speeds, such as 24X or 20X.
If necessary, enable BURN-Proof in the recording software. If your software does not support BURN-Proof, copy the data to the computers hard disk, then record from the hard disk to the PlexWriter.
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Section 5. Maintenance and Troubleshooting
Troubleshooting: Writing CD-R and CD-RW Discs Symptom Possible Causes Solutions
Cannot write at 10X (CD-RW).
CD-RW media is not High Speed CD-RW.
PlexWriter 24/10/40U drive is connected to a USB 1.1 port.
Use High-Speed CD-RW media.
These discs are stamped with a
High Speed CD-RW logo.
When PlexWriter 24/10/40U is
connected to a USB 1.1 port, the
maximum write performance is 4X.
You must be connected to a USB
2.0 port for 24/10/40 performance.
Troubleshooting: Playing Audio Discs
Symptom Possible Causes Solutions
Disc doesn’t revolve; no sound from headphones.
When playing an audio CD, you do not hear sound even though everything appears to be functioning normally.
Low sound level from PlexWriter drive.
USB cable not attached. Both the AC Adapter and the USB
cable must be attached in order for the drive to operate.
Sound board volume too low. Mixer settings for soundboard set too low or muted. Need sound board.
Sound board not properly configured.
Low levels from audio mixer.
Each sound board has a different setting for each input source, including one for CD-Audio. Run your sound boards mixer program and verify that the volume is turned up or not muted. You can do this by double-clicking on the speaker icon on your computers task bar.
Check your system configuration to see if the sound board settings (such as IRQ, memory, etc.) are conflicting with other devices on the system.
Check if all the necessary drivers and multimedia devices required by your sound board are installed.
Check the master, CD and line levels of all audio mixers.
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Section 5. Maintenance and Troubleshooting
Troubleshooting for Macintosh Users
Symptom Possible Causes Solutions
Drive will not operate as CD­ROM, CD-R or CD-RW device.
Drive does not respond.
Whether using the PlexWriter as a standard CD-ROM, CD-R or CD-RW device, you will need additional software and device drivers that are not part of the Macintosh operating system.
Bad connection between PlexWriter drive and USB interface.
You will need to purchase additional software. Supported software lists can also be found on the Plextor web site at www.plextor.com
Ensure the USB cable is securely connected between the computer and the PlexWriter, and that the cable is not damaged.
.
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6. Frequently Asked Questions about Writing
Can I use this USB PlexWriter if I have only USB 1.1?
Yes, the PlexWriter 24/10/40U will work with a USB 1.1 connection; however, the speeds will be limited to 4X write, 4X rewrite and 6X read. To achieve the drive's maximum speeds you need USB 2.0 built into your co mputers motherboard, or you need to add a USB 2.0 adapter. Orange Micro makes PCI-to-USB 2.0 adapters, and both Orange Micro and Adaptec make PCMCIA-to-USB 2.0 adapters for notebooks. See the list of contacts on page 43.
What media should I use for my PlexWriter?
To achieve 24X CD-R writing speed you must use certified 24X media; and to achieve 10X CD-RW writing speed you must use high-speed CD-RW media. See Recommended Media on page 37 for a list recommended media (including 24X certified media) at the time this manual was printed. The most updated list of supported media can be found on the Plextor web site at www.plextor.com
NOTE
: The current recommended media lists are matched to the current firmware
revision of the drive. So its best to keep your Plextor drives firmware up to date.
When can I use CD-RW media?
CD-RW media can only be used for writing in ReWritable drives. It is readable only in ReWritable drives or newer MultiRead CD -ROM s with UDF readers installed. UDF readers are available from software companies that develop packet-writing software. With CD-RW media you can:
Use as if it were a large capacity floppy disc.
Transport files to and from work.
Copy your important data periodically.
Store large projects as you develop them.
What writing speed can I expect with CD-RW media?
The PlexWriter 24/10/40U supports new high-speed CD-RW media, and can write to this media at 10X or 4X speed. You can also use conventional CD-RW media in this PlexWriter; in this case, the drive writes at 4X speed.
When should I use CD-R media?
CD-R media can be read in most CD-ROM, CD-Recordable or CD-ReWritable drives. Use CD-R media to:
Permanently archive important data.
Copy your music to CD for personal use.
Create specific format discs.
Create disc for distribution to others.
Share non-editable presentations
.
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Section 6. Frequently Asked Questions about Recording
Why doesnt CD Copier work?
Some possible reasons are:
Some CD-ROM drives are not fast enough for direct copying to the PlexWriter. They cannot stream data fast enough to record at the PlexWriters maximum speed or are not capable of digital audio extraction at high speed.
The CD-R disc being used is poor quality, scratched, badly manufactured, or has oily fingerprints.
Some CDs have copy prevention or other feature that does not allow direct CD-to-CD duplication.
Software may not support that disc format.
You are trying to copy packet-written discs, which is not possible because of the difference in technology between packet writing and mastering.
What causes buffer underrun errors?
Recording CDs requires a source device to provide an uninterrupted stream of data. A buffer underrun occurs when the data stream is interrupted. This can occur if:
You do not ha ve BURN-Proof enabled in your softwar e or your software does not support this feature.
Another application interrupts the writing process.
The write speed is set higher than the source drive can supply data.
The computer has insufficient RAM (random-access memory).
You are using poor quality discs, scratched discs, discs with fingerprints, or badly manufactured discs.
Buffer underrun errors are not a problem with the PlexWriter 24/10/40U, thanks to its remarkable BURN-Proof technology. To eliminate buffer underrun errors, simply make sure BURN-Proof is enabled in the recording software. Some software packages, such as Roxios Easy CD Creator, have BURN-Proof support for the PlexWriter drive permanently on, while other software allows the user to select whether it is on or off.
Can I use a DVD player as a source for audio recording?
In general, DVDs are a poor source for audio extraction. DVD drives typically have poor extraction properties and therefore are not the best choice for quality duplication of CDs. In many cases the burn is quicker, and the resulting copy better, if you use the PlexWriter as both the source and destination drive.
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Appendix A: PlexWriter Specifications
Minimum System Requirements
Computer Pentium II, 300-MHz CPU or faster. Minimum RAM 64 MB Hard disk size Minimum 800 MB. 1 GB of free space required to write to
a CD in image mode.
Operating system Windows 98 SE, Windows ME, Windows 2000, Windows
XP. (USB storage driver from Plextor CD must be installed to enable operation on Windows 98 SE.)
USB port Version 2.0 or 1.1
Recommended Media
CD-R: 24X Ricoh, Mitsui, Taiyo Yuden, Mitsubishi Chemical, Maxell,
CD-R: 20X Taiyo Yuden, TDK, Ricoh, Mitsui, Kodak, Maxell,
CD-R: 4X-16X Taiyo Yuden, TDK, Mitsui Chemicals, Ricoh, Kodak, Fuji
CD-RW Ricoh, Mitsubishi Chemical
Supported Media
Supported Media, Stamped CD
Supported Media, CD-R Orange Book Pt II-compliant discs (Type 74, Type 80)
TDK, Fuji Photo Film (With PoweRec, some poor-quality discs are recorded at 16X)
Note
: For the latest updated list of certified 24X and 20X
media, see Plextors web site at: http://www.plextor.com
Mitsubishi Chemical, Fuji Photo Film
Photo Film, Maxell, Mitsubishi Chemical
(All are rewritable up to 1,000 times.)
Red, Yellow Book-compliant discs
Supported Media, CD-RW
Supported Media Size 12 cm
Orange Book Pt III-compliant discs
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Appendix A: PlexWriter Specifications
Usable Formats
Logical CD Read/Write CD-DA, CD-Extra (CD-Plus), CD-ROM (Mode-1), CD-
ROM XA (Mode 2: form 1 or form 2 and mixed form), CD­ROM (Mixed Mode), Photo-CD, Video-CD, CD-TEXT, CD+G, UDF, CD+I
Writing Modes Track-at-Once, Disc-at-Once, Session-at-Once, Packet
Write (variable and fixed packets), Multi-session
Disc Diameter 12-cm diameter: Recording time 74 min, 79 min.
8-cm diameter: When using an 8-cm disc, maximum read speed is 18X CAV, maximum record speed is 4X
Performance Specifications
Read Speed, CD Speed Mode-1 Mode-2 CD-DA 17-40X Stamp,R Stamp,R Stamp,R 14-32X Stamp,R,RW Stamp,R,RW Stamp,R,RW
10.4-24X Stamp,R,RW Stamp,R,RW Stamp,R,RW 8X CLV Stamp,R,RW Stamp,R,RW Stamp,R,RW 4X CLV Stamp,R,RW Stamp,R,RW Stamp,R,RW
Write Speed, CD-R 24X Z-CLV, 20X Z-CLV, 16X CLV, 12X CLV, 4X CLV,
1X CLV
Write Speed, CD-RW 10X CLV, 4X CLV
High speed: 4X, 10X. Normal speed: 4X
Initialization Time < 13 sec. (typical), < 15 sec. (max.)
Time measured from power on until disc is available to read
Access Time CD: <140 ms (typical)
Time measured from start command until bus free (no
disconnect) Sleep Mode Entered after 2 minutes of no access to drive Wake Mode < 5 sec. (max.) to start drive after sleep Data Buffer 4 MB Spindle Motor Brushless Error Rate CD-ROM Mode 1: 1 Block/10
12
Bits
CD-ROM Mode 2: 1 Block/109 Bits
38
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Appendix A: PlexWriter Specifications
Front Panel
Eject Eject Button; Manual Emergency Eject; Software Eject Indicator LED Green: Disc load, or BURN-Proof working
Yellow: Reading disc Orange: Writing data to disc
Write speed shown by blink rate interval:
50 ms: 24X
100 ms: 20X
150 ms: 4–16X Disc Loading Auto Headphone Jack Stereo mini-jack, 0.8V +/- 0.3V at 32 ohms Headphone Volume
Control
Wheel knob
Rear Panel
Power Connector For connecting the AC Adapter. Use only the AC Adapter
shipped with the PlexWriter.
USB Interface Connector
USB type B connector.
Analog Audio Output Stereo analog output RCA connector
Output 1.0V +/-0.2V at 10 kohms
Power Switch Turns power on and off. 0 is off, 1 is on.
AC Adapter
Input Voltage 100-240 Vac, 50-60 Hz Input Current: Typical standby current: 450 mA
Typical read current: 1,200 mA Typical write current: 1,600 mA Peak current: 2,800 mA
Output Voltage Supplies DC +12V, +/-10%
Host Interface
Interface type USB version 2.0 and 1.1 Connector USB B type connector Data transfers USB 2.0: 480 Mbps max. (high speed)
USB 1.1: 12 Mbps max.(full speed) ATAPI support ATA/ATAPI-5 compliant Inquiry string PLEXTOR sp CD-R sp sp sp PX-W2410A
PlexWriter 24/10/40U Installation and Users Manual 39
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Appendix A: PlexWriter Specifications
Environmental Conditions
Operating Temperature 0 to 35 degrees Celsius Performance Guarantee
Temperature Operating Humidity Storage Temperature –40 to +60 degrees Celsius Storage Humidity
5 to 35 degrees Celsius
20% to 80% (non-condensing)
20% to 95% (non-condensing)
Dimensions and Weight
Dimensions (W/H/D) (excluding front bezel)
Weight 2,100g max.
163 mm (W) x 57mm (H) x 247mm (D)
Reliability
MTBF 60,000 Power On Hours Tray Loading 100,000 Load/Unload Cycles
Safety Standards
Country/ Region Type Agency Standard
USA Safety UL UL 1950 Laser FDA FDA 21 CFR EMC FCC FCC 15J-Class B Canada Safety CSA CSA 22.2 No. 950 Europe Safety CE EN60950/IEC60825 Safety TUV IEC 60950 Laser CE IEC825-1 EMC CE EN55024, EN50022 Taiwan EMC BSMI CNS13438 Class B
40
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Appendix B: Technical Support
Store Plextors e-mail, web site, phone, and fax numbers in a convenient location. Keep your drives serial number and a copy of your sales receipt handy as well.
If you experience a problem while installing or operating your PlexWriter drive, please refer first to the relevant sections of this manual regard ing se tup and installation (Chapters 1–3). If you do not uncover the solution there, please refer next to the maintenance and troubleshooting chapter that begins on page 23. It contains solutions to the most common types of problems fielded by our technical support staff. You may also wish to refer to the Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) section of our web site to assist you in troubleshooting the problem on your own.
NOTE
: We encourage you to go the Plextor web site (www.plextor.com) before attempting to contact Technical Support. The answers to the most common questions callers ask can be found quickly in the support area. Select PlexHelper for online troubleshooting or FAQs for common questions.
If you have not been successful in your quest, our Technical Support Department will help you solve problems that relate specifically to your PlexWriter drive. In many cases, a problem that appears to be caused by your PlexWriter actually originates in another part of your computer. In such instances, our technical support staff will try to help you identify the part at fault and will refer you to the manufacturer of that part for further assistance.
How to Contact Us
There are several ways for you to contact Plextors Technical Support Department:
Visit our web site (www.plextor.com Questions.
Send us e-mail at support@plextor.com Technical Support Department at 303-708-0709. Include your telephone number and the hours during which you can be reached. Be as detailed as possible in describing your problem. Please include system configuration, hardware and software, as well as versions of drivers used.
Call 800-886-3935 and select the technical support option.
) for answers to Frequently Asked
, or send a fax to the attention of the
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41
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Appendix B: Technical Support
Before You E-mail/Log On/FAX/Call
Please gather as much of the following information as possible before contacting us.
The serial number and TLA number of your PlexWriter. Your serial number can be found both on the warranty card that accompanied the drive and on a label on the drive itself. The TLA number appears on the drive label, in the barcoded section with the serial number.
The version of authoring software you a re using, if applicable.
The latest version of firmware you loaded onto the drive, if applicable.
The operating system (Windows 2000, ME, XP, etc.) you are using.
The brand name and model number of your computer (e.g., Dell 466/NP, Micron P66PCI Powerstation, ALR Evolution V, Apple Macintosh, Performa 575, etc.).
The type of USB interface (USB 1.1, USB 2.0) you use.
Brand name and model number of any other peripherals you have installed or connected to your computer (e.g., CD-ROM, scanner, fax board, network board).
Returns
You must receive an RMA (Returned Materials Authorization) number before any Plextor drive can be returned for repair or replacement. Any drive sent to Plextor without an RMA number will not be accepted.
You can contact our RMA Department and request an RMA number and RMA forms at rmasupport@plextor.com available on Plextors web site, in the Support/Warranty section.
Drives must be sent postage prepaid. The RMA numbers must be clearly visible on the outside of the shipping box. We recommend that you insure your shipment, as Plextor cannot be held responsible for any damage that may occur during shipment.
, or by fax at or 303-708-0709. Forms are also
42
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Appendix C: Helpful Contacts
Use the contacts below for CD-R and CD-RW software and components, and for PC vendors.
Contacts for CD-R and CD-RW Components
Company Phone Fax Product Web
Address
Applied Micro­systems Corp. Adaptec 408-945-8600 408-262-2533 USB adapters www.adaptec.
Creative Labs
FWB 408-969-8620 408-969-8621 Mac device HyCD, Inc. 408-988-8282 408-988-8585 Windows,
Oak Tech­nology Orange Micro
Pacific Inter Connects Plextor Recommend
Roxio 866-280-7694 303-684-3020 CD-R software www.roxio. SONICblue
(Formerly Diamond) Testa CD Labs (Part of Oak Tech­nology)
800-426-3925 425-883-3049 Devices,
cables, acc.
405-742-6600 800-998-1000
408-737-0888 408-737-3838 SimpliCD www.oaktech. 714-779-2772 714-779-9978 USB adapters www.
408-542-8150 800-706-0510
800-468-5846 541-967-2485 Sound boards www.
520-529-8636 ext. 100
405-624-6780 Sound boards www.
drivers UNIX CD-R
software
408-542-8151 Audio cables www.piccable.
boards, audio cables, all other technical support needs
408-737-3838 (Oak Technology)
CD-Tach performance benchmarks
www.amc.com
com creativelabs.
com www.fwb.com
www.cdr.com (Goes to HyCD web site)
com orangemicro.
com com www.
plextor.com
com diamondmm.
com www.tcdlabs. com
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Appendix C: Helpful Contacts
Contacts for PC Vendors
Company Web Address
IBM http://ibm.com Dell http://dell.com Gateway http://www.gw2k.com Compaq http://compaq.com Hewlett Packard http://www.hp.com/ Intel http://intel.com ASUSTeK Computer http://www.asus.com.tw/ GIGA-BYTE http://www.giga-byte.com/ ABIT http://www.abit-usa.com/ Aopen http://www.aopen.com/ EPOX http://www.epox.com/ SOYO Computers http://www.soyousa.com/ Tekram http://www.tekram.com/ FIC http://www.fic.com.tw/ Micro-Star International http://www.msi.com.tw/ I Will http://www.iwill.com.tw / ELITEGROUP COMPUTER SYSTEMS Free Computer Technology http://www.freetech.com/
http://www.ecs.com.tw/
44
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Appendix D: Warranty
PLEXTOR CORP . (“Plextor”) warrants your PlexWriter 24/10/40U against any defect in material and workmanship, under normal use, for a period of one year following its date of purchase. In the event this product is found to be defective within the warranty period, PLEXTOR will, at its option, repair or replace the defective unit.
This warranty is void: a) if the unit is operated o r stored under abnormal use a nd maintenance conditions; b) if the unit is repaired, modified or altered, unless such repair, modification or alteration is expressly authorized in writing by PLEXTOR; c) if the unit is subjected to abuse, neglect, lightning strike, electrical fault, improper packaging, or accident; d) if the unit is installed improperly; or e) if the serial number of the unit is defaced or missing.
PLEXTOR will not, under any circumstances, be liable for direct, special, or consequential damages such as, but not limited to, damage or lo ss of property or equipment, loss of profits or revenues, cost of replacement goods, or expense or inconvenience caused by service interruptions. Under no circumstances will any person be entitled to any sum greater than the purchase price paid for the unit.
To obtain warranty servic e, you must contact PLEXTORs Technical Support Department by calling 800-886-3935. They will attempt to diagnose and correct your problem by phone. If the unit does not function proper ly, they will issue a Ret urn Material Authorization (RMA) number. You may be asked to furnish proof of purchase to confirm that the unit is still under warranty.
All drives returned to PLEXTOR must be securely packaged and shipped postage prepaid. All product returns must be authorized in advance by PLEXTOR’s Technical Support Department. Authorization is confirmed by issuance of the RMA number, which must be written prominently on the outside of the box in which the defective unit is returned to PLEXTOR.
NOTE
: Warranty validity is limited to that applicable in the location where the drive was originally purchased.
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Appendix D: Warranty
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A
ac adapter · 39
connecting · 5, 39 access time · 38 adapter, USB 2.0 · 35 analog audio output · 39 analog audio output connectors · 5 applications software · 14 audio
analog · 39
CD-audio · 19
sound board audio · 20 audio CD, playing · 19 audio, troubleshooting · 32
B
box
contents of · 3
shipping · 3 buffer · 38 buffer underrun · 21, 36 BURN-Proof · 2, 2 1, 36
C
cable, USB · 5 CD
playing · 19
playing on Macintosh · 20
reading · 1
writing · 1, 35 CD Copier, problems with · 36 CD-audio · 19 CD-R
additional driver needed · 13
changing software and · 14
writing to · 21 CD-R media · 17, 35, 37 CD-ROM drive, requirement for · 2 CD-ROM media · 17 CD-RW
additional driver needed · 13
changing software and · 14
reading from · 21
writing to · 21
Index
CD-RW media · 17, 35, 37 cleaning disc · 19 closing tray · 18 compact disc rewritable h igh speed logo ·
17 components, contacts for · 43 computer, minimum · 2, 37 configuration
Macintosh · 2 minimum · 2
PC · 2 connecting the d r ive · 10 connecting to Macintosh · 12 connector
analog audio output · 5
power · 5, 39
USB · 5, 39 contacts · 43 controls and connectors, rear-panel · 4, 5,
39 controls and features · 4, 5 controls, front-panel · 4, 39 current, input · 39
D
data buffer · 38 determining your operating system · 9 device driver requirements · 13 dimensions · 40 disc
cleaning · 19 diameter · 38
loading · 39 disc label · 18 displaying the serial number · 23 drive
connecting · 10
connecting to Macintosh · 12
recognizing in Windows · 12 driver
additional needed for CD-R, CD-RW ·
13 device · 13 generic USB · 13 obtaining · 11 Windows 98SE · 11, 13
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Page 54
Index
duplication software · 6, 14 DVD, using as audio source · 36
E
eject button · 4, 1 8, 39
closing tray · 18 emergency eject hole · 4 environmental conditions · 40 error rate specification · 38
F
features and controls · 4, 5 firmware
obtaining · 23
recommended media and · 23, 35
upgrading · 2, 23, 24, 35 formats · 38 front-panel controls · 4, 39
H
hard disk size · 2, 37 headphone jack · 4, 20, 39 headphone volume control · 19, 39 high-speed CD-RW media · 17
reading from · 21 humidity specification · 40
I
indicator LED · 4, 39 initialization time · 38
L
label, disc · 18 LED indicator · 4, 39
M
Macintosh
additional software needed · 14 drive installation · 12 minimum configuration · 2 playing CD on · 20
troubleshooting · 33 maintenance · 23 mastering software · 6, 14 media · 17
care and handling · 18
CD-R · 35, 37
CD-RW · 35, 37
firmware and · 23, 35
marking on · 18
recommended · 35, 37
supported · 37 memory, minimum · 2 minimum configuration · 2 modes, writing · 38 MTBF · 40
O
operating position · 7 operating system
determining · 9
required · 2, 37
P
packet writing software · 6, 14 PC minimum configuration · 2 PC vendors · 44 performance
USB 1.1 and · 1
USB 2.0 and · 1 performance specifications · 38 playing audio CD · 19 position, operating · 7 power connector · 5, 39 power switch · 5, 39 precautions · 6
48
PlexWriter 24/10/40U Installation and Users Manual
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Index
R
RAM, mi nimum · 2, 37 read specification · 38 reading a CD · 1
troubleshooting · 25
rear-panel controls and con nectors · 4, 5,
39 recognizing the drive in Windows · 12 reliability · 40 returns · 42 RMA number · 3, 42 Roxio software · 6, 13, 14, 15
S
safety standards · 40 security sticker · 3 serial number
displaying · 23
recording · 10 shipping your drive · 3 SimpliCD · 6, 13, 14 sleep mode · 38 software
application · 13, 14
device driver · 13
duplication · 6
installing · 13
mastering · 6
packet writing · 6
Roxio · 6, 13, 14, 15
SimpliCD · 6, 13, 14 sound board audio · 20 speed
reading · 1, 38
writing · 1, 35, 38 spindle motor · 38 stereo output signal · 5 support · 41
T
technical support · 41 temperature specification · 40 TLA code · 10, 42 tray
closing · 18 front door · 4 loading and unloading · 18 loading specification · 40
troubleshooting
audio problems · 32 cannot add information to CD-R, CD-
RW · 30 cannot eject tray · 25 cannot run PlexWriter-created discs on
other drives · 26 cannot write CD-RW at 10X · 32 cannot write to CD-R or CD-RW · 28 CD Copier problems · 36 CD-R, CD-RW software does not
detect drive · 29 disc does not rotate · 24, 32 does not record at high speeds · 27 drive does not operate (Macintosh) · 33 drive does not respond · 24, 25 drive does not respond (Macintosh) ·
33 drive not recognized · 24 general problems · 24 low sound level · 32 Macintosh installation · 33 no audio · 32 no audio from headphones · 32 noise · 26 read errors · 25 reading discs · 25 reads only last session · 26 slow read performance · 26 vibration · 26 write errors · 27 writing CD-R, CD-RW · 27
PlexWriter 24/10/40U Installation and Users Manual 49
Page 56
Index
U
upgrading firmware · 2, 23, 24, 35 usable formats · 38 USB
connector · 5, 39 driver · 13 driver for Windows 98SE · 13 interface · 1, 2, 37, 39 performance · 1 using version 1.1 · 35
USB cable · 5
V
voltage, ac adapter · 39 volume control · 4, 19, 20, 39
W
wake mode · 38 warranty · 45 weight · 40 Windows
displaying drives serial number · 23
Windows 2000 · 2
drive installation · 10
Windows 98SE · 2
drive installation · 11 manual driver installation · 11
Windows ME · 2
drive installation · 10
Windows XP · 2
drive installation · 10 write specification · 38 writing
frequently asked questions · 35
modes · 38 writing a CD · 1
frequently asked questions · 35
image · 2 writing from DVD as source · 36 writing to CD-R · 21 writing to CD-RW · 21
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