Plextor PX-820, PX-820SA Installation And User Manual

DVD±R DL (DOUBLE LAYER/DUAL LAYER),

DVD±R/RW, DVD-RAM, CD-R/RW DRIVE

INSTALLATION AND USERS MANUAL

February 2008

PX-820

Model PX-820A Internal ATAPI Drive

Model PX-820SA Internal SATA Drive

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
LLC 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 Plextor’s prior permission.

Manual copyright ©2008 Plextor LLC.

Second edition, February 2008.

Licenses and Trademarks

Plextor and the Plextor logo are registered trademarks of Plextor LLC All other
licenses and trademarks are property of their respective owners.

Record Your Serial Number

For future reference, record the serial number in the space provided
below.

PX-820 Installation and Users Manual iii

FEDERAL COMMUNICATIONS COMMISSION STATEMENT

This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the following
two conditions:
(1) This device may not cause harmful interference, and
(2) this device must accept any interference received, including interference that may
cause undesired operation.

CAUTION: Any changes or modifications not expressly approved by the party
responsible for compliance could void the user's authority to operate the
equipment.

CANADIAN DEPARTMENT OF COMMUNICATIONS
STATEMENT

This digital apparatus does not exceed the Class B limits for radio noise emissions from
digital apparatus set out in the Radio Interference Regulations of the Canadian Department
of Communications.

This class B digital apparatus complies with Canadian ICES-003.
Cet appareil numérique de la classe B est conforme a la norme NMB-003 du Canada.

LASER INFORMATION

These products have been designed and manufactured according to IEC 60825-1 on the
Safety of Laser products. This product comes under “Class 1 Laser Products.”

CAUTION: Use of controls or adjustments or performance of procedures other
than those specified herein may result in hazardous radiation exposure.

A Laser Caution Label is attached on the top of the internal drive model.
The laser beam emitted from the optical pickup is visible and invisible. Accordingly:

• Do not open the optical pickup housing.

• Obtain service only from Plextor-authorized personnel.

CAUTION: To disconnect the internal DVD/CD drive from an electrical current,
pull out the computer’s power plug.

iv PX-820 Installation and Users Manual

Top View of Internal Drive, Showing Caution Label Location

Detail of PX-820A/SA Laser Caution Labels

PX-820 Installation and Users Manual v

Table of Contents

1. Getting Started ..............................................................................1

About this Manual...........................................................................1

Meet Your PX-820..........................................................................2

What the PX-820 Does................................................................2

Features of the PX-820................................................................3

Minimum Configuration to Use the PX-820...............................5

What You Can Do with the PX-820............................................6

About Software ...............................................................................6

Precautions......................................................................................7

Where to Go From Here..................................................................8

2. Installing the PX-820A Internal ATAPI Drive...........................9

PX-820A Drive Features and Controls............................................9

Front Panel—PX-820A Internal Drive........................................9

Rear Panel—PX-820A Internal Drive.......................................10

What Else Is In the PX-820A Box ................................................11

Save Your Box!.........................................................................11

PX-820A QuickStart Installation ..............................................12

Install the Bezel.............................................................................13

Mount the PX-820A Drive............................................................13

Open the Computer and Prepare for Installation...........................13

Determine Your Existing IDE Configuration................................14

Inspect Your Computer’s Cables...................................................15

Confirm That You Have an 80-Conductor IDE Cable..............16

Do You Have Cable Select?......................................................17

Do You Need a Power Cable?...................................................18

Set the Drive’s Mode Jumper........................................................18

Changing the Mode Jumper on Your PX-820A Drive..............19

Select an IDE Configuration .........................................................21

About Cable Select........................................................................26

Mount the PX-820A Drive............................................................27

Record the Serial Number.........................................................27

Mount the Drive in the Computer .............................................27

3. Installing the PX-820SA Internal SATA Drive .........................33

PX-820SA Drive Features and Controls .......................................34

Front Panel—PX-820SA Internal Drive....................................34

Table of Contents

vi PX-820 Installation and Users Manual

Rear Panel—PX-820SA Internal SATA Drive.........................35

What Else Is In the PX-820SA Box.............................................. 36

Save Your Box!.........................................................................36

Mount the PX-820SA Drive .........................................................37

Record the Serial Number......................................................... 37

Mount the Drive in the Computer.............................................37

4. Using Your PX-820..................................................................... 43

What Media to Use .......................................................................43

DVD Media...............................................................................43

DVD-RAM Media.................................................................... 44

CD-ROM Media .......................................................................44

More About Media for Your PX-820........................................45

Tray Loading and Operation.........................................................45

Handling DVD and CD Media..................................................46

Cleaning Discs..........................................................................46

Mounting Position......................................................................... 47

Playing DVDs...............................................................................47

Writing to DVD Media................................................................. 48

Specifying +R/RW or -R/RW...................................................48

Writing to CD-R and CD-RW Media...........................................48

Using the Disc/Busy Indicator...................................................... 49

5. Maintenance and Troubleshooting............................................51

Cleaning the PX-820 Drive........................................................... 51

Upgrading Firmware..................................................................... 52

Emergency Eject...........................................................................53

Changing the Front-Panel Color................................................... 54

Troubleshooting............................................................................ 58

Make Sure the Drive Is Recognized..........................................58

6. Frequently Asked Questions...................................................... 61

Appendix A: PX-820 Specifications...............................................63

Specifications for All PX-820 Drives........................................... 63

Specifications for the PX-820A Internal ATAPI Drive................72

Specifications for the PX-820SA Internal SAT A Drive...............75

Appendix B: Technical Support....................................................77

How to Contact Plextor Technical Support...................................78

Before You E-mail or Call for Support......................................... 78

Returns..........................................................................................79

Contacting Plextor’s RMA Department.................................... 79

Table of Contents

PX-820 Installation and Users Manual vii

Packing Your Drive...................................................................79

Shipping Your Drive to Plextor.................................................80

Appendix C: Warranty...................................................................81

If You’re Outside the U.S. or Canada ...........................................82

Index.................................................................................................83

Table of Contents

viii PX-820 Installation and Users Manual

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PX-820 Installation and Users Manual 1

1. Getting Started

Congratulations! Thank you for purchasing the Plextor® PX-820, a
reliable, high-performance recordable DVD and CD writer, rewriter, and
player. We appreciate the confidence you have shown in us. Our goal is
to put you—and keep you—on the leading edge of DVD and CD
technology.

About this Manual

Please read this manual carefully and keep it handy for easy reference.
Use the manual for installation, operation and troubleshooting. If your
drive needs service, see your dealer or call Plextor’s Technical Support
Department.

In this manual you should find all the information you need to
successfully install, operate and troubleshoot your drive. If you run into
a problem that doesn't seem to be covered, however, please contact us.
(See “

Appendix B: Technical Support” for the different ways you can
reach us.) You will be connected to our friendly, helpful band of tech
support engineers. 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.

Section 1. Getting Started

2 PX-820 Installation and Users Manual

Meet Your PX-820

The PX-820 is a DVD ReWritable/CD ReWritable drive that provides
professional quality DVD and CD performance for writing, rewriting
and reading.

What the PX-820 Does

For DVDs, the PX-820:

• Writes DVD+R (recordable DVD, “plus” format) media at

up to 20X speed on recommended media.

• Writes DVD+R DL (double layer) media at up to 8X speed.

• Writes DVD-R DL (dual layer) media at up to 12X speed.

• Writes DVD-R (recordable DVD, “dash” format) media at

up to 20X speed on recommended media.

• Writes DVD+RW (rewritable DVD, “plus” format) media

at up to 8X speed.

• Writes DVD-RW (rewritable DVD, “dash” form at) media

at up to 6X speed.

• Writes DVD-RAM discs at up to 12X.

• Supports DVD+VR and DVD-VR for mat for read and write.

• Supports DVD+VR and DVD-VR format with CPRM for read only.

• Reads stamped DVD discs at up to 16X.

• Reads DVD-RAM discs at up to 12X.

For CDs, the PX-820:

• Writes to CD-R (recordable CD) media at up to 48X speed.

• Writes to CD-RW (rewritable CD) media at up to 32X speed.

• Reads all CD-ROM and CD-R data media at a maximum of 48X

speed.

• Reads CD-DA (audio) and CD-R/RW audio media at up to 40X

speed.

Section 1. Getting Started

PX-820 Installation and Users Manual 3

Features of the PX-820

• Choice of interfaces:

 ATAPI interface: The PX-820A easily installs in virtually any

PC with an E-IDE ATAPI interface.

 Serial ATA interface: The PX-820SA takes advantage of the

benefits of the Serial Advanced Technology Attachment
(SATA) interface, with its smaller, more flexible cables and
faster interface speed.

• High speed transfers:

 The PX-820A supports data transfers via Ultra DMA66, DMA

Mode 4, and PIO Mode 4.

 The PX-820SA supports next-generation high speed transfers

via the Serial ATA 1.0 interface.

• Replaceable front panel: For mounting in any PC, you can change

the front-panel bezel and tray door from black to beige in a few
moments.

• MMC compliance: Supports the MMC-5 command set.

• Flash memory: Allows upgrading the PX-820 to the latest firmware

revision (available from the Plextor web site) without opening the
computer or physically accessing the drive.

• Black tray: Reduces the effect of optical distortion by absorbing

reflections from the laser beam, enhancing read quality.

• Plug and Play: Supports Windows Plug and Play.

• CPRM support: The PX-820 supports Content Protection for

Recordable Media, so you can play CPRM copy-controlled media.

Section 1. Getting Started

4 PX-820 Installation and Users Manual

DVD Features

• Lossless linking for DVD+R/RW and DVD+R DL: Allows

DVD+RW and DVD+R DL discs to be edited and still play on
DVD-ROM players.

• Zero Link for DVD-R/RW, DVD-R DL: Has 0 byte gap bet ween

sessions so the discs are compatible with all players. This allows
DVD-RW and DVD-R DL discs to be edited and still play on DVD­ROM players.

• Double layer and dual layer DVD discs: Reads and writes DVD+R

DL (double layer) and DVD-R DL (dual layer) discs, so you can
burn up to 4 hours of high quality MPEG-2/DVD video on a single

8.5-gigabyte DVD disc.

• Wide media compatibility: Compatible with a wide range of DVD-

RAM, DVD±R and DVD±RW media.

• DVD Multi Recorder: Supports the DVD Multi specification for read

and write; can read and write DVD-RAM, DVD-ROM, DVD-Video,
multi-border, multi-session and DVD±VR.

• Versatile recording modes for DVD+R/RW: Including disc-at-once

(DAO), multi-session, and incremental recording for DVD+R DL
(double layer) discs; DAO, multi-session, and incremental recording
for DVD+R; and DAO, incremental recording, and random access
recording for DVD +RW.

• Recording versatility for DVD-R/RW, too: Including DAO,

incremental recording, and layer jump recording for DVD-R DL
(dual-layer); DAO, incremental recording, multi-border recording
for DVD-R; and DAO, multi-border recording, incremental
recording, and restricted overwriting for DVD-RW.

Section 1. Getting Started

PX-820 Installation and Users Manual 5

CD-R and CD-RW Features

• Variety of recording modes: Supports track-at-once, disc-at-once,

session-at-once, and variable and fixed packet writing.

• Buffer Underrun Proof Technology: Eliminates buffer underrun

errors, so you can safely use your computer for other tasks while
you’re writing to a CD-R or CD-RW disc.

• Wide compatibility: Wide CD-R and CD-RW media compatibility.

• Orange Book compatibility: Compatible with Orange Book, Parts II

and III.

• OPC: Optimum Power Control, which adjust the laser power for the

optimum write strategy.

• CD-TEXT: Supports CD-TEXT.

Minimum Configuration to Use the PX-820

Here’s what you’ll need in order to install and use the PX-820 drive.

•

Computer: Computer CPU, Memory, and configuration are

dependent on installed application requirements.

• Interface:

 Model PX-820A requires an IDE ATAPI interface.
 Model PX-820SA requires a Serial ATA controller that supports

the ATAPI command set.

• Hard disk size: 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. For a
DVD, 10 GB of free space is recommended. (For more accurate
guidelines, see the help files or documentation for the recording
software you’re using.)

• Operating System:

 Model PX-820A requires Windows XP or Windows Vista.
 Model PX-820SA requires Windows XP or Windows Vista.

Section 1. Getting Started

6 PX-820 Installation and Users Manual

What You Can Do with the PX-820

Just look at some of the things you can do with your PX-820:

• Record slide shows or digital video onto DVD-RAM, DVD+R DL,

DVD-R DL, DVD+R, DVD-R, DVD+RW and DVD-RW discs.

• Play DVD-RAM, DVD-ROM, DVD+R DL, DVD-R DL, DVD+R,

DVD+RW, DVD-R, and DVD-RW discs.

• Write onto DVD-RAM discs with your set-top box and read the

discs with your Plextor drive; or write to DVD-RAM with the
Plextor drive, then read those discs on your set-top box.

• Record data or audio onto writ abl e or rew ri t abl e CD m e di a.

• Play music CDs.

• Save photos and other images on rewritable or writable CDs.

• Create a CD or DVD “sneakernet” to share information with

colleagues—just use software such as Sonic Solution’s Drag-t o- Di sc
to drag and drop files onto DVD+R, DVD+RW, CD-R or CD-RW
media, then continue adding files and sharing the same disc.

• Archive images and video to DVD or CD.

• Master new software programs on DVD or CD.

About Software

In order to record on DVD±R DL, DVD±R/RW, and CD-R/RW discs
you will need to have mastering, packet writing, or duplication software
installed on your computer system. If you purchased a retail kit from
Plextor, you’ll get software packages that include such software.

Sonic Solution’s Easy Media Creator software is one software suite that
lets you burn DVDs and CDs. The software lets you burn and share
anything on CD or DVD, including music, photos, and videos; and you
can easily back up your critical data to a CD or DVD. One component of
Sonic Solution is Drag-to-Disc, which makes the Plextor PX-820 drive
as easy to use as a hard disk drive. (For more information about Sonic
Solution, install this application and examine the help files.)

Section 1. Getting Started

PX-820 Installation and Users Manual 7

For details on software that is available for writing to DVDs or CDs,
please visit the web sites of the companies whose software you are
interested in, refer to their user’s manuals, or look at the help option
within the software. A list of various software that you can use with
your Plextor drive can be found in the Support/Co mpatib ility section of
www.plextor.com

Precautions

Like the rest of your computer system, your PX-820 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 drive’s 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. Removing

the cover may expose you to harmful electrical voltages or the laser
beam. For your safety, entrust service to experienced service
personnel only.

• Keep your DVDs and CDs 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, using a soft, dry

cloth, wipe gently in a radial motion; start at the center of the disc
and proceed to the outer edge.

• Do not attempt to clean your drive using solvent-based cleaners or an

air compressor.

Section 1. Getting Started

8 PX-820 Installation and Users Manual

• Do not attempt to clean your drive using a CD cleaning disc. These

discs can damage your drive permanently.

Where to Go From Here

• If you have a PX-820A internal ATAPI drive, see Section 2,

beginning on page

9, to learn how to install your drive.

• If you have a PX-820SA internal drive with the Serial ATA

interface, see Section 3, beginning on page

33, to install it.

PX-820 Installation and Users Manual 9

2. Installing the

PX-820A Internal ATAPI Drive

This section explains how to physically install your PX-82 0A internal
ATAPI drive in your computer.

PX-820A Drive Features and Controls

Before proceeding, become familiar with the controls and features of
your Plextor drive. Match the parts of your drive to the illustrations
below.

Front Panel—PX-820A Internal Drive

Figure 1: Front panel of the PX-820A internal ATAPI drive

• Tray front door: Attached to tray drawer.

• Emergency eject hole: If the automatic eject button does not work,

insert the emergency eject tool, paper clip, or other thin, rigid object
in this hole to eject tray. Turn OFF power before using t his feat ure.

• Disc/busy indicator: Illuminated green for disc reading or writing.

• Eject button: Push once to eject tray. Push again to insert the tray

back into the PX-820A. To prevent wear on the drive, always use the
eject button to insert the tray.

Section 2. Installing the PX-820A Internal ATAPI Drive

10 PX-820 Installation and Users Manual

Rear Panel—PX-820A Internal Drive

Also familiarize yourself with the drive’s rear panel.

Figure 2: Rear panel of the PX-820A internal ATAPI drive

• Mode jumper: Use the mode jumper to select operation as an IDE

master or slave, or for cable select. In general, leave this jumper at
its factory setting, which is master; and ensure that any other device
on the bus is jumpered as slave.

• IDE cable connector: Connects to your computer’s IDE (ATAPI)

interface using 80-conductor Ultra cable.

NOTE: Although the PX-820A will operate with a 40-wire IDE cable, it
may not be able to write at 20X unless an 80-conductor IDE/ATA
cable is used.

• Power connector: Connects to your computer’s power supply to

provide DC +5 volts and +12 volts to the PX-820A.

Section 2. Installing the PX-820A Internal ATAPI Drive

PX-820 Installation and Users Manual 11

What Else Is In the PX-820A Box

What you find in your Plextor box depends on what the company that
sold you the box put in—or took out—while the Plex tor drive was in
their possession. Plextor currently sells the PX-820A drive in this
configuration:

• PX-820A DVD±R DL, DVD±R/RW and CD-R/RW drive

• Replacement front bezel and disc tray front panel

• 4 mounting screws

• Emergency eject tool

• Plextor software disc with PX-820 Installatio n an d Users Manual

• PX-820 Quick Reference Guide

Save Your Box!

Be sure to save the box after you have installed your drive. The box
and its packaging material were designed and drop tested to ensure
your drive can endure rough treatment and still arrive in working
order. If you have to ship your drive back to Plextor, you’ll want to
send it in the original box. (For more details about returning your
drive to Plextor, see page 79.)

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 conte nts, depending on whom you
purchased the drive from and what they included inside the bo x.

If your drive came pre-installed, some or all of the items above may
have been installed and may not be separately available. See the Plextor
web site for locations to purchase additional or replacement accessories.

Section 2. Installing the PX-820A Internal ATAPI Drive

12 PX-820 Installation and Users Manual

PX-820A QuickStart Installation
For Experienced PC Users Only

If you’ve installed computer peripherals before, use this QuickStart
installation to get up and running quick ly.

IMPORTANT NOTE: To ensure maximum writing speed, you must
connect the PX-820A to an 80-conductor IDE/ATA flat ribbon cable.
(This newer 80-conductor ribbon cable is physically interchangeable
with the 40-conductor cable found in older computers.)

Typical Scenario 1: You have a PC with an IDE interface installed,
you have Windows Vista, or XP, and you have nothing installed on
the secondary IDE port. What to do: Leave the PX-820A’s jumper
set to Master, attach it to the secondary IDE port, and go. Windows
will recognize the drive automatically.

Typical Scenario 2: You have a PC with an IDE interface installed,
you have Windows Vista, or XP, the primary IDE port already has
two devices connected and you have a CD-ROM installed on the
secondary IDE port. What to do: Change the CD-ROM to Slave,
leave the PX-820A’s jumper set to Master and attach the PX-820A to
the secondary IDE port. Windows recognizes the new drive
automatically.

If neither of these situations applies to you, or you’re not comfortable
with IDE installation, read the rest of this section for more detailed
installation instructions.

Section 2. Installing the PX-820A Internal ATAPI Drive

PX-820 Installation and Users Manual 13

Install the Bezel

If the PX-820A drive’s current front-panel color is suitable for your
computer, you can proceed to “

Mount the PX-820A Drive” below. But
if you want to change the bezel color, first install the selected bezel and
disc tray front panel as outlined under “

Changing the Front-Panel Color”

on page

54.

Mount the PX-820A Drive

Here’s an overview of what you’ll do to mount the drive:

1. Turn OFF your computer system.

2. Set the jumpers for your new PX-820A drive, if necessary.

3. Mount the drive into an available drive bay inside the computer

system.

4. Make all necessary cabling connections: IDE cable, power cable, and

audio cable.

5. Turn your computer sy stem ON.

The following pages give more details for this procedure.

Open the Computer and Prepare for
Installation

To determine whether your PX-820A will be a Master or a Slave, open
your computer and examine the IDE connections to the motherboard.

To open the computer:

1. Before proceeding, make sure the power to your computer and any

external peripherals is OFF and your computer is UNPLUGGED
from its power source.

Section 2. Installing the PX-820A Internal ATAPI Drive

14 PX-820 Installation and Users Manual

2. Remove your computer’s cover, following the directions provided by

your computer’s manufacturer. Typically, this involves loosening or
removing several screws on the back panel of your computer and
sliding off the cover. See

Figure 3 for an example.

Figure 3: Removing a typical computer's cover

Determine Your Existing IDE Configuration

With your computer open, determine the existing IDE configuration.
You can do this by looking at the IDE ribbon cable (or cables—there
may be two) and seeing what is connected to them.

One end of the IDE cable connects to the IDE por t on your computer’s
motherboard; and there are usually two other connectors for attaching
peripheral devices such as a hard disk, DVD or CD-ROM drive, or your
PX-820A drive. If there are two devices, one is configured as Master
and the other the Slave, as indicated by the position of jumpers on the
back of the drive.

If your computer is set up for Cable Select, or CSEL, both devices will
be jumpered as Cable Select. In older computer, this configuration
required a special Cable Select cable.

Section 2. Installing the PX-820A Internal ATAPI Drive

PX-820 Installation and Users Manual 15

If there are two IDE cables, one is for the primary IDE bus and the other
is for the secondary bus.

Before you install your PX-820A, your computer’s IDE configuration is
usually one of the following:

• Configuration A: Hard disks connected as Master and Slave devices

on primary IDE port; DVD or CD-ROM drive connected as the
Master device on secondary IDE port.

• Configuration B: Hard disk connected as Master device and DVD

or CD-ROM drive connected as Slave on the primary IDE port;
nothing connected to secondary IDE port.

• Configuration C: Hard disk connected as Master device on primary

IDE port; nothing connected to secondary IDE port.

• Configuration D: System uses special “Cable Select” cables; all

devices are jumpered for Cable Select.

Inspect Your Computer’s Cables

To ensure that it can write at maximum rated speed (20X), you should
make sure the PX-820A is connected to an 80-conductor IDE/ATA flat
ribbon cable. If you have an older computer, it may still be equipped
with a 40-conductor cable.

NOTE: Although the newer IDE/ATA cable has 80 conductors (wires), its
connectors have only 40 pins, so it’s physicall y interc hangeable with the
older cable. And in fact, your PX-820A drive may work fine with a 40­conductor cable. But to ensure writing at maximum speed, it’s best to use
the newer 80-conductor cable. The 80-conductor cable cancels
interference much better than the older model, allowing faster data
transfers.

CAUTION: The length of any IDE cable cannot exceed 18 inches.

Section 2. Installing the PX-820A Internal ATAPI Drive

16 PX-820 Installation and Users Manual

Confirm That You Have an 80-Conductor IDE Cable

How can you tell? The 80-conductor cable is slightly wider than the
older 40-conductor version. The wires in the 80-conductor version are
narrower, too.

Figure 4: Comparing the older 40-conductor cable (top) to the new 80-

conductor type (bottom). Be sure to use the 80-conductor cable.

If you have an older 40-conductor cable, replace it with an 80-conductor
cable.

Section 2. Installing the PX-820A Internal ATAPI Drive

PX-820 Installation and Users Manual 17

Do You Have Cable Select?

Many computers from major manufacturers use special Cable Select
cables. The Cable Select cable typically has markings that identify the
connectors for Master, Slave, and Motherboard.

Figure 5: If you have an older 40-conductor Cable Select cable (top),

replace it with the new 80-conductor cable (bottom).

If you have one of these older Cable Select cables, replace it. (All 80­conductor cables that meet the ATA specifications also support Cable
Select.) The connector color identifies master and slave.

With the 80-conductor cable:

• The blue connector attaches to the computer motherboard or

controller.

• The gray connector is in the middle of the cable, and goes to any

slave (device 1) drive, if present.

• The black connector is at the opposite end from the host connector

and goes to the master drive (device 0), or to a single drive if only
one is used.

Section 2. Installing the PX-820A Internal ATAPI Drive

18 PX-820 Installation and Users Manual

If you are unsure whether or not your system has a Cable Select cable
installed, either look at the cable or look at the jumpers on the existing
DVD-ROM or CD-ROM drive. If any device is jumpered as Cable
Select, then both devices on that cable must be jumpered that way.

Do You Need a Power Cable?

In most computers, you will find extra power connectors in the
computer ready for your use. When you open the computer, check the
cable running from your power supply to your hard disk drive and see if
it has extra connectors on it. If so, you can plug one of these into the
power connector found on the rear panel of the PX-820A.

If you do not find any additional connectors (either because they were
not supplied or they are all in use), you will have to buy a “splitter” or a
“Y-connector.” These can also be found at most retail and mail-order
computer stores.

Set the Drive’s Mode Jumper

You specify your drive's Master, Slave, or Cable Select setting before
installing it. You do this by changing the position of a jumper on the
mode jumper block at the rear of the drive.

Your drive ships from our factory with its mode jumper set to operate
the PX-820A as a Master. This will work in most custom system
configurations. If your computer is from a large OEM system
manufacturer such as IBM, Hewlett Packard/Compaq, Dell, or Gateway,
you will need to pay particular attention to whether the co mpu ter uses
the Cable Select scheme.

NOTE: The jumper configuration on the drive has priority over Cable
Select. So if the jumper of one device on a cable is set to Master, the
jumper of the other device must be set for Slave. In this case, location of
the devices on the cable is not important.

If you have only one device, it must be set to Master or Cable Select, and
it must be at the end of the cable.

Section 2. Installing the PX-820A Internal ATAPI Drive

PX-820 Installation and Users Manual 19

Changing the Mode Jumper on Your PX-820A
Drive

The drive arrives from the factory with its mode jumper set to Master.
(A function is ON if the jumper is installed and OFF if the jumper is
removed.)

Figure 6: Factory settings for mode jumper at the rear

of the internal drive

Changing to a Master, Slave, or Cable Select

The Master/Slave/Cable Select setting for the drive is determined by the
mode jumper. The jumper is placed over one of the sets of mode pins.
To change the drive from Master to Slave or to Cable Select, you must
move the jumper.

Section 2. Installing the PX-820A Internal ATAPI Drive

20 PX-820 Installation and Users Manual

For example, to change the drive to be a Slave, move the jumper to the
middle set of mode pins, leaving the other pins uncovered. To change
the drive for Cable Select, move the jumper to the left set of mode pins.

Note that if any device is jumpered as Cable Select, then both devices
connected to that cable must be jumpered as Cable Select. (And if
you’re not using the newer 80-conductor IDE/ATA cable, the cable you
use must be a special Cable Select cable.)

Changing Jumper Settings

• To remove a jumper, pull it off with your fingers or a pair of needle-

nose pliers.

• To install a jumper, push it onto the jumper pins.

CAUTION: Ensure power to the drive is OFF before installing or
removing a jumper.

Figure 7: Install the mode jumper across vertical pairs of pins

CAUTION: Install the mode jumper across the pins as shown (vertically).
Do not connect one pin switch to another by installing the jumper
lengthwise (horizontally). Doing so could resu lt in damage to the drive.

Section 2. Installing the PX-820A Internal ATAPI Drive

PX-820 Installation and Users Manual 21

Select an IDE Configuration

Set the PX-820A’s jumper and cable it according to the desired
configuration. Keep these rules in mind:

• For best DVD±RW and CD-RW performance, try to connect the

PX-820A to the IDE port that is not connected to the hard disk drive
or to a DVD or CD-ROM drive. In most cases, this will be the
secondary IDE port.

• For best results, set the PX-820A to be the Master, if possible.

• If you have only one device on a cable, always set its jumper as the

Master, never as the Slave.

Before PX-820A

Installation

How to Install the

PX-820A

A

Hard disks connected as
Master and Slave devices on
primary IDE port; DVD-ROM or
CD-ROM drive connected as
Master device on secondary
IDE port.

Remove the DVD-ROM or
CD-ROM drive, change it to
Slave, and re-connect it to the
secondary IDE port.

Set the mode jumper to Master,
and connect the PX-820A as
Master device to the secondary
IDE port.

Figure 8. How to install the PX-820A if your computer is originally

set up in configuration A

Section 2. Installing the PX-820A Internal ATAPI Drive

22 PX-820 Installation and Users Manual

NOTE: The configuration shown in Figure 8 can make it very difficult to

write from the DVD or CD drive to the PX-820A at maximum rated speed
using “on-the-fly” copying.

System configuration and performance will make a big difference.
Depending on how fast the DVD or CD-ROM drive can stream data to
the PX-820A, it may not be fast enough to keep the buffer full. In this
case, the buffer may become empty and a buffer underrun error may
occur. However, because it is equipped with Buffer Underrun Proof
Technology, your PX-820A can still make successful copies if you use
software that supports this feature. (All software shipped with PX-820A
drive retail kits supports Buffer Underrun Proof Technology.)

If you still have problems writing with this configuration, use the image
writing method (that is, write an image to your hard drive, then write that
image onto the DVD±R/RW or CD-R/RW media), or record at a lower
speed. We also recommend that DMA be enabled on your computer, if
your system supports it.

Section 2. Installing the PX-820A Internal ATAPI Drive

PX-820 Installation and Users Manual 23

Before PX-820A

Installation

How to Install the

PX-820A

B

Hard disk connected as Master
device, and CD-ROM or DVD­ROM drive connected as Slave
on the primary IDE port;
nothing connected to
secondary IDE port.

Set the mode jumper to Master,
and connect the PX-820A as
Master to secondary IDE port.

Figure 9. How to install the PX-820A if your computer is originally

set up in configuration B

Section 2. Installing the PX-820A Internal ATAPI Drive

24 PX-820 Installation and Users Manual

Before PX-820A

Installation

How to Install the

PX-820A

C

Hard disk connected as Master
device on primary IDE port;
nothing connected to
secondary IDE port.

Set the mode jumper to Master,
and connect the
PX-820A as Master to
secondary IDE port.

Figure 10. How to install the PX-820A if your computer is originally

set up in configuration C

Section 2. Installing the PX-820A Internal ATAPI Drive

PX-820 Installation and Users Manual 25

Before PX-820A

Installation

How to Install the

PX-820A

D

System uses special Cable
Select cables; all devices are
jumpered for Cable Select.

Set the PX-820A’s mode
jumper to CSEL, and connect
the drive to the end of the cable
from the computer’s IDE
interface connector.

Figure 11: How to install the PX-820A if your computer is originally

set up in configuration D

Section 2. Installing the PX-820A Internal ATAPI Drive

26 PX-820 Installation and Users Manual

About Cable Select

The Cable Select jumper position sets the PX-820A drive to use the
CSEL signal from the IDE interface for configuration purposes. This
signal automatically selects the correct Master/Slave setting for the
drive.

Figure 12: Configuring the PX-820A drive for Cable Select

To use CSEL, you must have:

• A computer that supports CSEL.

• An IDE cable that supports CSEL (Cable Select). The 80-conductor

IDE/ATA cable from Plextor supports CSEL.

Section 2. Installing the PX-820A Internal ATAPI Drive

PX-820 Installation and Users Manual 27

Mount the PX-820A Drive

Before proceeding to install the PX-820A drive in your personal
computer, double-check your jumper setting.

Record the Serial Number

Record the serial number of your drive on the inside front cover of this
manual.

Mount the Drive in the Computer

You can mount your internal drive in any available bay. You must
remove the small panel that covers the bay that you want to use.

NOTE: The drive can be mounted horizontally or vertically

If you don’t have an empty bay, remove the existing IDE DVD-ROM or
CD-ROM drive and install the PX-820A.

You must make a minimum of two cable connections to your PX-820A.
The two cable connections that you must make are:

• IDE cable

• Power cable

To mount the PX-820A drive:

1. Make sure the power to your computer and any external peripherals

is turned OFF and your computer is UNPLUGGED from its power
source.

2. If you haven't already removed the cover from your computer,

remove it now, following the directions provided by your computer’s
manufacturer. Typically, this involves loosening or removing several
screws on the back panel of your computer and sliding off the cover.
See

Figure 3 for details.

3. Remove the cover panel from the bay that will hold the drive. To

remove the cover panel, pop it out by pressing outward lightly. (In
some older computers, you may have to remove screws that hold the
panel in place.)

Section 2. Installing the PX-820A Internal ATAPI Drive

28 PX-820 Installation and Users Manual

Figure 13: Removing the cover panel from a bay

4. Determine if you must install mounting rails on the sides of your

drive. To do so, insert the drive into the open bay. If the drive fits
tightly with little or no clearance on either side of the drive, you will
not have to use mounting rails. The drive can be mounted directly
into your computer. Go to step 6.

NOTE: Plextor does not provide rails. If you need rails, you can
obtain them from the computer manufacturer or from a computer
supply retail or mail-order store.

5. If you must use mounting rails, fasten the rails to the lower pair of

holes as shown in

Figure 14. (In some instances, you may need to
fasten the rails to the upper set of holes.) After fastening the rails,
check their positioning by sliding the drive into the bay before you
mount the drive or connect any cables.

CAUTION: Be sure not to mistake the inner and outer face of the rail
when attaching. Typically, the smooth side of the rail faces away from
the drive’s chassis.

Section 2. Installing the PX-820A Internal ATAPI Drive

PX-820 Installation and Users Manual 29

Figure 14: Installing mounting rails (if needed)

6. Plug one connector of the 80-conductor IDE/ATA cable into the IDE

connector on the rear panel of the drive before you insert the drive
into your computer. Then thread the cable through the front of the
open bay and back toward the motherboard. The drive should slide
smoothly into the bay. If it does not, check for obstructions in the
bay and ensure the side rails are attached properly.

7. If not already connected, attach the other end of the IDE ribbon cable

to the connector on the motherboard.

Section 2. Installing the PX-820A Internal ATAPI Drive

30 PX-820 Installation and Users Manual

Figure 15: Connect one end of the IDE cable to the motherboard and

the other end to the drive. If your Plextor drive is the only device on

the cable, attach it at the end of the cable, leaving the

center connector free.

CAUTION: With some IDE ribbon cables, it is easy to accidentally
plug your IDE cable upside down into both your drive and the
motherboard. Be sure you match the red stripe along one side of the
IDE cable to Pin 1 on the motherboard and Pin 1 on the drive. (Pin 1
on the drive is closest to the power connector.) Note that each
connector on most ribbon cables also has a “key” in the middle. This
key should fit into a slot in the middle of each connector of the
motherboard, your PX-820A drive, and any other internal IDE
peripherals.

8. Double-check your work. You must ensure the side of the IDE cable

with the red stripe is matched to Pin 1 on the interface board and on
the drive.

CAUTION: In the case of only one IDE device, you must make
certain that one end of the cable is always connected to the IDE
connector on the motherboard. The other end of the connector must
be connected to a device. The end connector of the cable should
never be left unconnected.

9. Connect a power cable from the computer to the power connector

(DC INPUT) of the drive. In most computers, you will find free
power connectors that are ready for your use.

CAUTION: The power connector on the cable and the receptacle on
the drive are keyed. Do not force the power connector into the drive,
or the drive and/or the computer may be damaged.

Section 2. Installing the PX-820A Internal ATAPI Drive

PX-820 Installation and Users Manual 31

Figure 16: Cable connections for an internal IDE drive

10. Mount the PX-820A drive in the computer using the four screws that

were supplied with your drive. Use only these screws.

CAUTION: Do not mount your drive in your computer using screws other
than those supplied by Plextor. You may damage the drive if you insert
screws that are too long or the wrong thread type.

This completes the installation procedure. Go to “Section

4. Using Your

PX-820” on page

43 to see how to use your PX-820A drive.

Section 2. Installing the PX-820A Internal ATAPI Drive

32 PX-820 Installation and Users Manual

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PX-820 Installation and Users Manual 33

3. Installing the

PX-820SA Internal SATA Drive

This section explains how to physically install your PX-82 0SA internal
Serial ATA drive in your computer. The steps are as follows:

1. Turn OFF your computer system.

2. Mount the drive into an available drive bay inside the computer

system.

3. Make the cabling connections: Serial ATA cable and power cable.

4. Turn your computer sy stem ON.

The following pages give more details for this procedure.

NOTE: Your computer’s SATA connection must support the ATAPI
command set. Some computer motherboards have SATA RAID
(Redundant Array of Independent Discs) chipsets that do not support the
ATAPI command set used by optical disc drives, or that do not have
BIOS settings to enable IDE/ATAPI functions. If you are unsure, consult
your motherboard manual or vendor web site for compatibility, BIOS
versions, and BIOS settings. And check the Plextor PX-820SA
motherboard compatibility listing at
http://www.plextor.com/english/support/support_compatability.html

Section 3. Installing the PX-820SA Internal SATA Drive

34 PX-820 Installation and Users Manual

PX-820SA Drive Features and Controls

Before proceeding, become familiar with the controls and features of
your Plextor drive. Match the parts of your drive to the illustrations
below.

Front Panel—PX-820SA Internal Drive

Figure 17: Front panel of the PX-820SA internal SATA drive

• Tray front door: Attached to tray drawer.

• Emergency eject hole: If the automatic eject button does not work,

insert the emergency eject tool, paper clip, or other thin, rigid object
in this hole to eject tray. Turn OFF power before using t his feat ure.

• Disc/busy indicator: Illuminated green for disc reading or writing.

• Eject button: Push once to eject tray. Push again to insert the tray

back into the PX-820SA. To prevent wear on the driv e, always use
the eject button to insert the tray.

Section 3. Installing the PX-820SA Internal SATA Drive

PX-820 Installation and Users Manual 35

Rear Panel—PX-820SA Internal SATA Drive

Also familiarize yourself with the drive’s rear panel.

Figure 18: Rear panel of the PX-820SA internal SATA drive

• SATA cable connector: Connects to your computer’s SATA

interface using a 7-pin SATA interface cable.

• Power connector: Connects to your computer’s 15-pin SATA

power cable to provide DC +5 volts and +12 volts to the PX-820SA.

NOTE: If your computer has only 4-pin power connectors, use the
SATA power cable adapter to connect to the 15-pin power connector
on the PX-820SA.

Section 3. Installing the PX-820SA Internal SATA Drive

36 PX-820 Installation and Users Manual

What Else Is In the PX-820SA Box

What you find in your Plextor box depends on what the company that
sold you the box put in—or took out—while the Plex tor drive was in
their possession. Plextor currently sells the PX-820SA drive in this
configuration:

• PX-820SA DVD±R DL, DVD±R/RW and CD-R/RW drive

• Replacement front bezel and disc tray front panel

• 7-pin SATA interface cable

• 4 mounting screws

• Emergency eject tool

• Plextor software disc with PX-820 Installatio n an d Users Manual

• PX-820 Quick Reference Guide

Save Your Box!

Be sure to save the box after you have installed your drive. The box
and its packaging material were designed and drop tested to ensure
your drive can endure rough treatment and still arrive in working
order. If you have to ship your drive back to Plextor, you’ll want to
send it in the original box. (For more details about returning your
drive to Plextor, see page 79.)

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 conte nts, depending on whom you
purchased the drive from and what they included inside the bo x.

If your drive came pre-installed, some or all of the items above may
have been installed and may not be separately available. See the Plextor
web site for locations to purchase additional or replacement accessories.

Section 3. Installing the PX-820SA Internal SATA Drive

PX-820 Installation and Users Manual 37

Mount the PX-820SA Drive

Before proceeding to install the PX-820SA drive in your personal
computer, make sure you have all the cables you’ll need.

Record the Serial Number

Note the serial number of your drive on the inside fron t cover of this
manual.

Mount the Drive in the Computer

You can mount your internal drive in any available bay. You must
remove the small panel that covers the bay that you want to use.

NOTE: The drive can be mounted horizontally or vertically

If you don’t have an empty bay, remove the existing DVD-ROM or CD­ROM drive and install the PX-820SA.

You must make two cable connections to your PX-820SA. The two
cable connections that you must make are:

• SATA cable

• Power cable

To mount the PX-820SA drive:

1. Before proceeding, make sure the power to your computer and any

external peripherals is OFF and your computer is UNPLUGGED
from its power source.

2. Remove your computer’s cover, following the directions provided by

your computer’s manufacturer. Typically, this involves loosening or
removing several screws on the back panel of your computer and
sliding off the cover. See the illustration below for an example.

Section 3. Installing the PX-820SA Internal SATA Drive

38 PX-820 Installation and Users Manual

Figure 19: Removing a typical computer's cover

3. Remove the cover panel from the bay that will hold the drive. To

remove the cover panel, pop it out by pressing outward lightly. (In
some older computers, you may have to remove screws that hold the
panel in place.)

Figure 20: Removing the cover panel from a bay

Section 3. Installing the PX-820SA Internal SATA Drive

PX-820 Installation and Users Manual 39

4. Determine if you must install mounting rails on the sides of your

drive. To do so, insert the drive into the open bay. If the drive fits
tightly with little or no clearance on either side of the drive, you will
not have to use mounting rails. The drive can be mounted directly
into your computer. Go to step 6.

NOTE: Plextor does not provide rails. If you need rails, you can
obtain them from the computer manufacturer or from a computer
supply retail or mail-order store.

5. If you must use mounting rails, fasten the rails to the lower pair of

holes as shown in the illustration below. (In some instances, you may
need to fasten the rails to the upper set of holes.) After fastening the
rails, check their positioning by sliding the drive into the bay before
you mount the drive or connect any cables.

CAUTION: Be sure not to mistake the inner and outer face of the rail
when attaching. Typically, the smooth side of the rail faces away from
the drive’s chassis.

Figure 21: Installing mounting rails (if needed)

Section 3. Installing the PX-820SA Internal SATA Drive

40 PX-820 Installation and Users Manual

6. Plug one connector of the 7-pin SATA interface cable into the SATA

connector (the right-hand connector) on the rear panel of the drive
before you insert the drive into your computer . Then thread the cable
through the front of the open bay and back toward the motherboard.
The drive should slide smoothly into the bay. If it does not, check for
obstructions in the bay and ensure the side rails are attached
properly.

Figure 22: Cable connections for an internal SATA drive

NOTE: Your computer’s SATA connection must support the ATAPI
command set. Some computer motherboards have SATA RAID
(Redundant Array of Independent Discs) chipsets that do not support
the command set used by optical disc drives, or that do not have
BIOS settings to enable IDE/ATAPI functions. If you are unsure,
consult your motherboard manual or vendor web site for compatibility,
BIOS versions, and BIOS settings. And check the Plextor PX-820SA
motherboard compatibility listing at
http://www.plextor.com/english/support/support_compatability.html

Section 3. Installing the PX-820SA Internal SATA Drive

PX-820 Installation and Users Manual 41

7. If not already connected, attach the other end of the 7-pin SATA

interface cable to the Serial ATA connector on the computer
motherboard (or on a PCI board, if that is how the Serial ATA
interface is provided in your computer). When connecting the Serial
ATA cable, note that cable connectors are keyed, and will fit only
one way. For example, the initials “SATA” on the cable connector
should be up.

8. Connect a power cable from the computer to the power connector of

the drive. In most computers, you will find free power connectors
that are ready for your use.

 If your computer is equipped with 15-pin SATA power cables,

you can connect a power cable directly to the PX-820SA drive.

 If your computer’s power cables have only 4-pin power

connectors, use the 4-pin SATA power cable adapter that came
with your PX-820SA drive.

CAUTION: The power connector on the cable and the receptacle on
the drive are keyed. Do not force the power connector into the drive,
or the drive and/or the computer could be damaged.

9. Mount the PX-820SA drive in the computer using the four screws

that were supplied with your drive. Use only these screws.

CAUTION: Do not mount your drive in your computer using screws
other than those supplied by Plextor. You may damage the drive if
you insert screws that are too long or the wrong thread type.

This completes the installation procedure. Go on to the next section to
see how to use your PX-820SA drive.

Section 3. Installing the PX-820SA Internal SATA Drive

42 PX-820 Installation and Users Manual

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PX-820 Installation and Users Manual 43

4. Using Your PX-820

This section explains how to use your PX-820 drive and how to load,
handle and care for your DVDs and CDs.

What Media to Use

Use the right media! Your PX-820 drive's capabilities change depending
on which type of compact disc you use.

DVD Media

DVD recordable media is available in two different, non-compatible
formats:

• DVD+R, DVD+R DL (double layer) and DVD+RW

• DVD-R, DVD-R DL (dual layer) and DVD-RW

Your PX-820 can read and write either media format, in single layer or
double layer media. It supports all these types of DVD media:

• Digital Video Discs: You can immediately play pre-recorded DVD

discs, including movies and other DVDs.

• DVD+R DL, DVD-R DL, DVD+R, DVD-R: Recordable DVD.

You can record on these discs, but only once. You can also read
them.

• DVD+RW, DVD-RW: ReWritable DVD. You can record and re-

record (up to 1,000 times) on these discs. You can also read them.

Figure 23: The logo identifies the type of DVD media

With double layer media, you don’t need to turn the disc over to record
on side 2.

Section 4. Using Your PX-820

44 PX-820 Installation and Users Manual

DVD-RAM Media

Unlike standard DVD media, you do not need special DVD burning
software to write or read DVD-RAM discs on a computer. You can
access these discs like a

floppy disk or hard drive. You can even write a

DVD-RAM disc with a set-top box, then read it on the PX-820 drive.

The PX-820 supports reading and writing with 4.7-GB (version 2)
DVD-RAM discs.

CD-ROM Media

You can use these types of CD media:

• CD-ROM: You can immediately play or read prerecorded compact

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: Normal Speed, High Speed, Ultra Speed and Ultra Speed

Plus ReWritable CD. These discs support recording and re-recording
(up to 1,000 times). You can also read them.

To achieve a certain writing speed, you must use the appropriate media.
To achieve 48X CD-R writing speed you must use certified 48X (or
higher) media; and to achieve 32X CD-RW writing speed you must use
Ultra Speed Plus CD-RW media.

Remember:

• Using Normal Speed CD-RW discs (that is, NS-RW media) you can

rewrite at 4X.

• Using High Speed CD-RW discs (HS-RW media), you can rewrite at

10X.

• Using Ultra Speed CD-RW discs (US-RW media) in this drive, you

can rewrite at up to 24X.

• Using Ultra Speed Plus CD-RW discs (US+) in this drive, you can

rewrite at up to 32X.

Section 4. Using Your PX-820

PX-820 Installation and Users Manual 45

You can write to Ultra Speed CD-RW discs only on drives that support
this media. Drives that are capable of writing to Ultra Speed ReWritable
media, such as the Plextor PX-820, are identified by a “Compact Disc
ReWritable Ultra Speed” logo.

Figure 24: The logo also identifies the type of CD-RW media

More About Media for Your PX-820

See the Plextor web site at www.plextor.com for a list of Plextor­approved media for your drive

Tray Loading and Operation

To load and unload the tray:

1. While the drive is powered up, push the eject button on the front

panel. The tray drawer slides out in 3–4 seconds.

Figure 25: Loading the tray

2. Lay a CD or DVD disc in the depression in the tray, label side up.

3. Press the eject button again and the tray will slide shut within

seconds.

Section 4. Using Your PX-820

46 PX-820 Installation and Users Manual

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 using
your hand is not recommended and risks damage or premature wearing
of the mechanism.

Handling DVD and CD Media

Take care when handling blank CD and DVD media. Dust, scratches,
and fingerprints on either side of the disc can cause write er rors 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 permanent ink.

CAUTION: We recommend using a “non-toxic” marker, such as a
Sharpie® pen, that 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.

NOTE: We do not recommend placing self-sticking CD-R labels on the
disc. The weight of the label may unbalance the disc and cause write
errors during recording or read errors during reading. Also, attempting to
remove the label may permanently damage the disc.

Cleaning Discs

For proper read and write performance, your 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 from the center out. Do not wipe the disc in a circular motion.

Section 4. Using Your PX-820

PX-820 Installation and Users Manual 47

Figure 26: 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.

Mounting Position

You can operate your PX-820 drive in either a horizontal or a vertical
position.

Playing DVDs

To play a digital video disc, insert the DVD as you would any other
disc. The drive plays both single layer and double layer discs.

The first time: A code on each DVD allows it to be played only on
players designed for a certain regional area, such as North America,
Europe, etc. When the drive ships from the factory there is no region
code set. The first time a DVD that has a region setting is inserted into
the drive, the drive is automatically set to that region code by the player
application.

Section 4. Using Your PX-820

48 PX-820 Installation and Users Manual

If you later insert a DVD with a different region code, you are prompted
to either accept changing the new region code or not. If you don’t accept
the change, then that DVD will not play. If you do accept the change,
then the region code setting is changed. But remember: you can chang e
the drive’s region code only 5 times. After that, you can’t change it any
more.

Writing to DVD Media

You need special software that supports writing to DVD+R,
DVD+R DL, and DVD+RW discs; or to DVD-R DL, DVD-R and
DVD-RW discs. Sonic Solution’s Easy Media Creator (on the DVD that
accompanies your PX-820) contains this software.

You don’t need special software to write to DVD-RAM media.

Specifying +R/RW or -R/RW

You don’t need to specify whether to write to +R/RW or -R/RW. The
selection is automatically made for you, based on the media you insert in
the drive.

Writing to CD-R and CD-RW Media

In conjunction with your drive, mastering and packet writing software
such as Sonic Solution Easy Media Creator allows you to write audio,
video, data, or other info rmation to writable (CD-R ) or rew r i t a bl e (CD ­RW) media. The PX-820 writes to all types of CD-RW media.

Section 4. Using Your PX-820

PX-820 Installation and Users Manual 49

Using the Disc/Busy Indicator

The color of the front-panel disc/busy indicator gives you information
about the drive’s operation.

Operation

LED Color

On/Off

No disc OFF
Loading Green ON
Disc loaded and ready OFF
Read or verify activity Green ON
CD/DVD write Green ON

Section 4. Using Your PX-820

50 PX-820 Installation and Users Manual

This page intentionally left blank.

PX-820 Installation and Users Manual 51

5. Maintenance and Tr oubleshooting

This section explains maintenance and troubleshooting procedures for
your PX-820 drive.

With proper maintenance, you can prevent problems. If trouble arises,
you can often solve many simple problems on your own, rather than
wait for assistance from a Plextor representative.

Cleaning the PX-820 Drive

Plextor drives are sealed against external contamination, so in a normal
computer environment and with normal use, your drive should not
require internal cleaning. However, if your drive has been in use for
some time and has just recently started to exhibit read/write problems, it
is possible that dust has accumulated on the laser lens. In this case:

• If your drive is still in warranty and you are experiencing problems,

send the drive to Plextor. (See “

Returns” on page 79.)

• If your drive is out of warranty, before returning the drive for repair

you may want to try a short blast of canned air aimed at the center of
the drive. Use only electronics-grade canned air: sterile, filtered, and
moisture-free. If you notice no improvements after this step, you will
need to return the drive for repair.

CAUTION: Do not attempt to clean your drive using any solvent-based
cleaners. Also, do not use an air compressor, because the high-pressure
blast can damage the drive.

ANOTHER CAUTION: Do not use a CD cleaning disc. Cleaning discs
that use a felt pad can scratch the laser lens surface and render the drive
inoperable. Cleaning discs with brushes may also scratch the lens.
Moreover, these cleaning discs are often out of balance, making their
operation very noisy.

Section 5. Maintenance and Troubleshooting

52 PX-820 Installation and Users Manual

Upgrading Firmware

Plextor creates firmware revisions to meet the particular needs of large
computer manufacturers. It is rare that these revisions will impact the
performance or operation of your drive. However, we advise that you
always update your drive with the latest available firmware. Among
other benefits, updating firmware ensures that your drive has the latest
media catalog. Before troubleshooting a possible problem with your PX­820 drive please visit our web site at

8www.plextor.com to check if you

have the latest firmware.

To obtain new firmware for your 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 upgrade firmware in your drive’s flash memory:

1. Run the executable file that you downloaded from Plextor’s web site.

2. Accept all defaults by continuing to click on the Next button until

you see the message:

Firmware update has completed.

3. Restart your system.

Section 6. Maintenance and Troubleshooting

PX-820 Installation and Users Manual 53

Emergency Eject

If the computer power is turned off or the automatic eject button at the
front of the drive does not work , use this procedure to open the drive.

To use the emergency eject tool to open the drive:

1. Make sure power to the drive is OFF. (That is, turn off your

computer.)

2. At the front of the drive, insert the emergency eject tool, or a paper

clip or other thin, rigid object, into the emergency eject hole.

Figure 27: Emergency eject

3. Push the tool or other object straight in, until the disc tray clicks

open.

4. Carefully continue to slide the disc tray open.

5. Remove the CD from the disc tray.

6. Carefully push the disc tray shut.

Section 5. Maintenance and Troubleshooting

54 PX-820 Installation and Users Manual

Changing the Front-Panel Color

By using the replacement bezel and disc tray face plate you can change
the PX-820’s front-panel color in a few moments.

CAUTION: Avoid creating static electricity. Be sure to wear a grounding
strap when performing this procedure.

To install a different bezel and disc tray face plate:

1. If the PX-820 is already installed in a computer, turn the computer

power OFF and open the computer case.

2. If necessary, remove cables from the rear of the PX-820 and remove

the drive. (You may be able to gain access to the necessary parts of
the drive by sliding it forward without removing any cables.)

3. Use the emergency eject tool or a paper clip to open the tray drawer

as illustrated in

Figure 27 above.

4. Turn the drive upside down (or work from the bottom) and locate the

two hooks at the bottom of the disc tray face plate. The hooks are
toward the left and right edges of the tray mask.

Figure 28: Locate the two disc tray face plate hooks

Section 6. Maintenance and Troubleshooting

PX-820 Installation and Users Manual 55

5. Hold the disc tray securely and gently push the tray face plate

slightly to release it from the hooks. Pry a hook away from the tray
and press down. Repeat with the other hook. When both hooks are
released, remove the mask by pressing it off the disc tray.

Figure 29: Unhook the tray mask an d push to release it

6. Locate the three bezel hooks. Two are on the bottom of the drive,

and one is on each side.

Figure 30: Locate the three bezel hooks

Section 5. Maintenance and Troubleshooting

56 PX-820 Installation and Users Manual

7. Turn the drive right side up and locate the catch at the center of the

top of the drive.

Figure 31: Also locate the catch at the top front of the drive.

8. With the drive right side up, release the two side bezel hooks. To

release the hooks, press inward using the angled portion of the eject
tool. Do this only for the two bezel hooks on the sides. (You don’t
have to do this for the hook on the bottom.)

Figure 32: Press in with the angled portion of the eject tool to

release the two side bezel hooks

Section 6. Maintenance and Troubleshooting

PX-820 Installation and Users Manual 57

9. With the two side bezel hooks released, tilt the top of the bezel

slightly forward to release the top catch, then slide the bezel forward
to remove it.

Figure 33: Pull forward gently to remove the front bezel

CAUTION: Do not touch any of the internal components that are visible.

10. Position the new bezel in front of the drive and slide it gently in

place. Ensure that the top clip and all bezel hooks lock into place.

Figure 34: Slide the new bezel into position and make sure all bezel

hooks snap into place

Section 5. Maintenance and Troubleshooting

58 PX-820 Installation and Users Manual

11. Install the new tray face plate by pressing the L-shaped forms on

both sides of the face plate into the rib of the disc tray, and sliding
the face plate downward until the two hooks are fixed.

Figure 35: Install the tray face plate

Close the disc tray gently, and reinstall the drive in the computer.

To install the drive in your computer, go to Section 2 on page 9 (for the
PX-820A drive) or Section 3 on page

33 (for the PX-820SA drive).

Troubleshooting

If you have problems during or right after installation of your drive, first
make sure the drive is recognized. If you still have problems, visit the
Plextor web site for tips and troubleshooting help.

Make Sure the Drive Is Recognized

If you’re having trouble after installation, make sure the PX-820 drive is
recognized by your computer. To check whether the drive 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 Plextor drive, the hard disk, and another DVD or CD­ROM drive, if present. The Plextor icon may be D: or E: or another
designator.

Section 6. Maintenance and Troubleshooting

PX-820 Installation and Users Manual 59

3. If the PX-820 drive is not recognized in Windows, reboot the

computer and use your computer’s setup program to program the
BIOS to recognize it.

NOTE: Refer to the computer’s documentation for information on how
to run the motherboard BIOS setup program.

 For the PX-820A, use the motherboard BIOS setup program to

set up IDE Master and Slave designations, as needed for your
configuration, on the primary or secondary IDE bus. If the IDE
interface is disabled on your computer, you will need to enable
it. If a Master or Slave device is set to “disable” or “none” or a
similar designation, change it as appropriate to “enable” or
“auto” (or something similar, depending on your setup
program).

 For the 820SA, verify the SATA chipset supports the ATAPI

Command set. Use your computer’s motherboard BIOS setup
program to enable SATA/IDE/ATAPI as needed for your
configuration.

Note that if your computer’s SATA chipset is dedicated for
SATA RAID, the connection may not support optical disc drives
like the PX-820SA. Consult your motherboard manual or
vendor website for assistance in configuration or for questions
of compatibility.

4. Save and exit your CMOS setup to restart your computer with the

new settings.

5. In Windows Vista, or XP, rig ht-cl i c k o n the M y Computer icon and

select Properties. Click on the Hardware tab, then click on the
Device Manager button. Click the + sign next to the DVD/CD-ROM
drives heading and look for the “PLEXTOR DVDR PX-820A” or
“PLEXTOR DVDR PX-820SA” entry underneath.

Section 5. Maintenance and Troubleshooting

60 PX-820 Installation and Users Manual

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 Plextor Technical
Support. (See “

Appendix B: Technical Support” for the different ways

you can contact us.)

PX-820 Installation and Users Manual 61

6. Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Why do I need an 80-conductor IDE cable for the PX-820A?

Your PX-820A will operate with either the older 40-conductor cable or the
newer 80-conductor IDE/ATA cable. Howeve r, the 80-conductor cable
improves performance, and the PX-820A may not be able to write at
maximum speed (20X) without it. Although the new cable has 80 conductors
(wires), it still has only 40 connector pins, so it’s compatible with the
connector on your PX-820A. (The extra wires are present to reduce
interference that would slow high-speed transfers.)

Q: Is the PX-820A/SA a DVD Multi Recorder?

Yes. The DVD Multi specification requires that DVD Multi Recorders read
and write DVD-ROM (prerecorded), DVD-R (General), DVD-RW and
DVD-RAM discs. Because the PX-820 conforms to the DVD Multi
specification, it can read and write the formats used by today’s computers
and consumer electronic (CE) DVD devices. (Note that DVD Multi does not
prescribe that devices should accommodate DVD-RAM cartridges or 8-cm
discs.)

Q: Which is better, DVD+R and DVD+RW? Or DVD-R and DVD-RW?

A: Neither is “better” or “worse.” They’re just different standards, like
English versus met ric measurement.

Different manufacturers support different standards. The DVD+R and
DVD+RW formats are supported by Plextor, Philips, Sony, Hewlett­Packard, Dell, Ricoh, Yamaha and ot he r manufacturers. DVD-R, DVD-RW
and DVD-RAM are also supported by Plextor, as well as Panasonic,
Toshiba, Apple Computer, Hitachi, NEC, Pioneer, Samsung and Sharp.

No matter which format a DVD disc is recorded in, it can be read by most
commercial DVD-ROM players.

Section 6. Frequently Asked Questions

62 PX-820 Installation and Users Manual

Q: What's the difference between "double layer" and "dual layer"?

A: Nothing, really. It's simply a difference of opinion within the industry
about how to label media and drive capabilities. DVD+R DL (as named by
the DVD+RW Alliance) stands for DVD+R Double Layer. DVD-R DL
(from the DVD Forum) stands for DVD-R Dual Layer. Whether your DL
media is labeled "double layer" or "dual layer," the PX-820 can handle it.

PX-820 Installation and Users Manual 63

Appendix A: PX-820 Specifications

This appendix shows specifications for all PX-820 drives, followed by
unique specifications for the PX-820A and PX-820SA.

Specifications for All PX-820 Drives

Front Panel

Eject Eject button; manual emergency eject; software eject.
Disc/Busy

Indicator

 Steady green when reading disc
 Steady green when writing to disc
 Steady green while initializing, loading or ejecting
 Off when idle or tray empty

Disc Loading Auto

DVD Regional Setting

Compatibility

RPC phase-2-compatible

Changing
regional
setting

Max. 5 times

Other Features

Data Buffer 2 MB

Appendix A: PX-820 Specifications

64 PX-820 Installation and Users Manual

Usable Formats

Logical DVD
Read/Write

DVD-ROM, DVD-Video, Multi-Border, Multi-Session,
DVD+VR, DVD-VR, DVD+/-VR with CPRM (read)

Logical CD
Read/Write

CD-DA, CD-ROM Mode-1, CD-ROM Mode-2, CD­Extra, CD-ROM XA (mode 2, form 1, and form 2),
Photo CD (single or multiple sessions), Video CD,
Multi-Session, CD-TEXT, CD-I (FMV) Full Motion
Video.

Write
Methods,
DVD+R/RW,
DVD+R DL

 DVD+R: Disk-At-Once (DAO), Multi-Session,

Incremental Recording

 DVD+RW: DAO, Incremental Recording, Random

Access Recording

 DVD+R DL: DAO, Multi-Session Recording,

Incremental Recording

Write
Methods,
DVD-R/RW,
DVD-R DL

 DVD-R: Disk-At-Once (DAO), Multi-Border

Recording, Incremental Recording

 DVD-RW: DAO, Multi-Border Recording,

Incremental Recording, Restricted Overwrite

 DVD-R DL: DAO, Incremental Recording, Layer

Jump Recording

Write
Methods,
CD-R/RW

Track-At-Once (TAO), Disk-At-Once (DAO), Packet
Write (variable and fixed), Session-At-Once (SAO)

Write
Methods,
DVD-RAM

Random Access Write, Sequential Write

Appendix A: PX-820 Specifications

PX-820 Installation and Users Manual 65

Supported Media

Supported
Media, DVD

 Stamped DVDs: Single layer / Double layer
 DVD-R: For General Part 1 Physical Specification

Version 2.0

 DVD-RW: Part 1 Physical Specification

Version 1.1/1.2

 DVD-R DL: Part 1 Physical Specification Version

1.9

 DVD+R: 4.7GB Basic Format Specification Version

1.2

 DVD+R DL: 8.5GB Basic Format Specification

Version 1.0

 DVD+RW: 4.7GB Basic Format Specification

Version 1.2

 DVD-RAM: Part 1 Physical Specification Version

2.0

Supported
Media, CD

 Stamped CDs: Discs compliant with

Red/Yellow/Green/White/Blue Book

 CD-R: Orange Book Part II
 CD-RW: Orange Book Part III

Supported
Media Size

CD-R/RW: 12 cm, 8cm
DVD+R/RW: 12 cm
DVD-R/RW: 12 cm, 8cm

Appendix A: PX-820 Specifications

66 PX-820 Installation and Users Manual

Performance Specifications

Stamped
DVD

DVD ±R DL Read Speed,

DVD

SL DL

DVD
±R

DVD
±RW

16X CAV



–



– –

12X CAV

    

8X CAV



–



– –

6X CLV –



–

 

5X CAV

    

4X CLV

    

Speed RAM(12X) RAM(5X) RAM (Ver1)
12X ZCLV



– –

5X CLV –



–

3X CLV –



–

2X CLV –



–

1X ZCAV – –



Read Speed,
CD

Speed Mode-1 Discs Mode-2 Discs CD-DA

Discs
48X CAV Stamp,R Stamp,R
40X PCAV Stamp,R,

RW

Stamp,R,
RW

Stamp,R,

RW
32X CAV Stamp,R,

RW

Stamp,R,
RW

Stamp,R,

RW
24X CAV Stamp,R,

RW

Stamp,R,
RW

Stamp,R,

RW
20X CAV

Stamp,R,
RW

Stamp,R,
RW

Stamp,R,

RW

16X CLV

Stamp,R,
RW

Stamp,R,
RW

Stamp,R,

RW

10X CLV

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

Play CD-DA: 24X
DAE: Max 40x
Mode2, XA Mode2 Form2: Max 20X

NOTE: “Stamp” indicates commercially pressed “silver” discs.

Appendix A: PX-820 Specifications

PX-820 Installation and Users Manual 67

Performance Specifications (continued)

Write
Speed,
DVD ±
R/RW

Speed +R +RW +R DL –R –RW –R DL

20X CAV



– –



– –

18X CAV



–

–



–

–

16X CAV



– –



– –

12X CAV



– –



–



8X ZCLV

   

–



6X ZCLV – –



– –



6X CLV

 

–

 

–

4X CLV

     

2.4X CLV

  

–

– –

2X CLV – – –

  

1X CLV

–

– – –



–

Speed RAM2 (12X) RAM (5X) RAM (Ver 1)
12X ZCLV



– –

5X CLV

–



–

3X CLV

–



–

2X CLV

–



–

Appendix A: PX-820 Specifications

68 PX-820 Installation and Users Manual

Performance Specifications (continued)

Speed CD-R Ultra

Speed+
CD-RW
Media

Ultra
Speed
CD-RW
Media

High
Speed
CD-RW
Media

Normal
Speed
CD­RW
Media

48X CAV



– – – –

Write
Speed,
CD­R/RW

40X CAV



–

–

– –

32X ZCLV

 

– – –

24X ZCLV

  

– –

16X CLV

  

– –

10X CLV –

– –



–

8X CLV



– – – –

4X CLV –

–

–

–



Speed Write (MB/s) Read (MB/s)
20X 27.5 –
18X 24.7 –

DVD
Transfer
Rate
(Max)

16X 22 22
12X 16.6 16.6
8X 11 11
7X – 9.7
6X 8.2 8.2
5X 6.9 6.9
4X 5.5 –
3X 4.1 4.1

2.4X 3.3 –
2X 2.7 2.8
1X 1.38 1.38

Appendix A: PX-820 Specifications

PX-820 Installation and Users Manual 69

Performance Specifications (continued)

CD Transfer
Rate

Speed Write (KB/s) Read (KB/s)

48X 7200 7200
40X 6000 6000
32X 4820 4820
24X 3600 3600
16X 2400 2400
10X 1500 1500
8X 1200 1200
4X 600 600

Access Time Time measured from command phase until bus free

(no disconnect):

Random Typical Full Typical
CD 140ms 230ms
DVD±R/RW 160ms 250ms
DVD-RAM 210ms 310ms

Sleep Mode Entered after 8 minutes of no access to drive (default

setting)

Wake Mode < 6 sec. (max.) to start drive after sleep

Environmental Conditions

Mounting
Position

Horizontal or vertical orientation:

 Horizontal: 0 degrees ±15 degrees
 Vertical: 0 degrees ±15 degrees (front to back tilt)
 Left side tilt

+5 degrees /0 degrees Eject button up
0 degrees/-5 degrees Eject button down

Operating
Temperature

5 to 40 degrees Celsius

Operating
Humidity

20 to 80% (non-condensing)

Appendix A: PX-820 Specifications

70 PX-820 Installation and Users Manual

Environmental Conditions (continued)

Transportation
or Storage
Temperature

–40 to 60 degrees Celsius

Transportation
or Storage
Humidity

20 to 95% (non-condensing)

Acoustic Noise

Condition Noise

Drive on, disc seek Max 47.5dB
Non seek Max 47.5dB

Vibration,
Operating

Acceleration
CD: Read 0.45 Grms, Write 0.2 Grms
DVD: Read 0.45 Grms, Write 0.2 Grms
Sweep: 5 to 500 Hz
Direction of vibration: X, Y and Z axis

Vibration, Non­Operating

Acceleration: 0.712Grms
Direction of vibration: X, Y and Z axis

Hz G^2/Hz

7 0.0003
20 0.00275
140 0.00275
312 0.00013
400 0.00008
600 0.00008
700 0.00007

Power off, no disc

Appendix A: PX-820 Specifications

PX-820 Installation and Users Manual 71

Environmental Conditions (continued)

Shock,
Operating

Data read with retry (no audio play)
Pulse duration and peak level:
CD read 6G, write 1.5G
DVD read 6 G, write 1G
Pulse duration: 11ms, half sine wave
Direction of shock: ±X, ±Y and ±Z axis
Once per direction=6 times

Pulse duration and peak level:
2ms/60G (read), CD and DVD, half sine wave
Direction of shock: Horizontal (-z) Left side down (-z),

right side

Shock, Non­Operating

No disc and power off
Pulse duration and peak level: 10ms/100G and
2ms/200G, half sine wave
Direction of shock: ±X, ±Y, ±Z axis
Once per direction=6 times

Electrostatic
Discharge

±8KV aerial discharge
±4KV contact discharge

Reliability

MTBF 70,000 hours

25 degrees C, 10% duty cycle read and seek, 90%

duty cycle idle (laser off, motor off)
Tray Loading 30,000 load/unload cycles
Read Error

Rate

CD-ROM Mode 1: <10

12

block/ bit

CD-ROM Mode 2: <10

9

block/bit

DVD-ROM: <10

12

block/bit

Seek error rate: <10

6

block/bit

Appendix A: PX-820 Specifications

72 PX-820 Installation and Users Manual

Safety, Laser, and EMC Standards

Country/
Region

Type Agency Standard

USA Safety UL UL 1950
Laser FDA FDA 21 CFR 1040.10 and

1040.11
Canada Safety UL (C-UL) CSA 22.2 No. 950-00
Europe Safety CE EN60950-1/IEC60950-1
Laser CE EN60825-1
EMC CE EN55024,

EN50022 Class B

Taiwan EMC BSMI CNS13438 Class B

Specifications for the PX-820A Internal
ATAPI Drive

Minimum System Requirements—PX-820A Internal ATAPI Drive

Computer PC configuration (CPU, speed, RAM) dependent on

installed recording applications

Hard Disk Size 1 GB of free space to write to a CD in image mode, or

10 GB of free space to create DVD images. (For more
accurate guidelines, see the help files or
documentation for the recording software you’re

using.)
Interface IDE (ATAPI) supported
Operating

System

Windows XP, Windows Vista

Appendix A: PX-820 Specifications

PX-820 Installation and Users Manual 73

Rear Panel, PX-820A Internal ATAPI Drive

Power Supply DC +12V,

±10%

DC +5V,
±5%

Typical standby current 20mA 400 mA

Typical DVD read

current (at max speed)

1000 mA 1000 mA

Typical CD read current

(at max speed)

1000 mA 1000 mA

Typical DVD write

current (at max speed)

1500 mA 1600 mA

Typical CD write current

(at max speed)

1000 mA 1400 mA

Peak current 1800 mA 1650 mA

Power
Consumption

Peak 29.9W at 20X DVD

IDE Interface
Connector

IDE bus, 40-pin flat ribbon type. Interface complies
with ATA/ATAPI-5. Must use 80-conductor IDE/ATA
cable.

NOTE: Although the PX-820A will operate with a 40­conductor cable, it may not be able to write at 20X
unless an 80-conductor IDE/ATA cable is used.

Maximum total cable length cannot exceed 18 in (45.7
cm).

Mode Jumper Master (default), slave, cable select (CSEL)

Dimensions and Weight, PX-820A Internal ATAPI Drive

Dimensions
(W/H/D)
( excluding
front bezel)

5.75" x 1.62" x 6.69"
146 mm x 41.3 mm x 170.0 mm

Weight < 1.52 lbs. (690 g)

Appendix A: PX-820 Specifications

74 PX-820 Installation and Users Manual

Host Interface, PX-820A Internal ATAPI Drive

Type ATA/ATAPI-5
PIO Transfers Modes 0-4
Multiword

DMA
Transfers

Modes 0-2

Ultra DMA
Transfers

Modes 0-4

ATAPI
Command Set

ATAPI-5, MMC-5

Inquiry string PLEXTOR sp DVDR sp sp sp PX-820A sp sp

(where “sp” is one space)

Appendix A: PX-820 Specifications

PX-820 Installation and Users Manual 75

Specifications for the PX-820SA Internal
SATA Drive

Minimum System Requirements—PX-820SA Internal SATA Drive

Computer PC configuration (CPU, speed, RAM) dependent on

installed recording applications

Hard Disk Size 1 GB of free space to write to a CD in image mode, or

10 GB of free space to create DVD images. (For more
accurate guidelines, see the help files or
documentation for the recording software you’re

using.)
Interface Serial ATA 1.0. Must support ATAPI command set.
Operating

System

Windows XP, Windows Vista

Rear Panel, PX-820SA Internal SATA Drive

Power Supply* DC +12V,

±10%

DC +5V,
±5%

Typical standby current 20mA 400 mA

Typical DVD read

current (DVD 12X)

1000 mA 1000 mA

Typical CD read current

(CD 48X)

1000 mA 1000 mA

Typical DVD write

current (DVD+R 12X)

1500 mA 1600 mA

Typical write current

(CD-R 48X)

1000 mA 1400 mA

Peak current 1800 mA 1650 mA

Power
Consumption

Peak 29.9W at 20X DVD

Appendix A: PX-820 Specifications

76 PX-820 Installation and Users Manual

Dimensions and Weight, PX-820SA Internal SATA Drive

Dimensions
(W/H/D)
( excluding
front bezel)

5.75" x 1.62" x 6.69"
146 mm x 41.3 mm x 170.0 mm

Weight < 1.52 lbs. (690 g)

Host Interface, PX-820SA Internal SATA Drive

Type Serial ATA Generation 1
Data

Connector

Serial ATA: Power, 15 pins; signal, 7 pins

Serial ATA
Transfers

1.5 Gbps (150MB/s)

ATAPI
Command Set

Refer to the Plextor ATAPI command manual.

PIO Transfers Modes 0-4
Multiword

DMA
Transfers

Modes 0-2

Ultra DMA
Transfers

Modes 0-4 (Ultra DMA66)

Inquiry string PLEXTOR sp DVDR sp sp sp PX-820SA sp

(where “sp” is one space)

PX-820 Installation and Users Manual

77

Appendix B: Technical Support

Store Plextor’s e-mail, web site, phone, and fax numbers in a convenient
location. Keep your drive’s serial number and a copy of your sales
receipt handy as well.

If you experience a problem while installing or operating your drive,
please refer first to the relevant sections of this manual regarding setup
and installation (Sections 1–3). If you do not uncover the solution there,
please refer next to the maintenance and troubleshooting section that
begins on page

51. You may also wish to refer to the Frequently Asked
Questions (FAQ) section of our web site to assist you in troublesho oting
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 i n the support area.
Select PlexHelper for online troubleshooting or F AQs for answers to
common questions.

If you have not been successful in y our quest, our Technical Support
Department will help you solve problems that relate specifically to your
PX-820 drive. In many cases, a problem that appears to be caused by
your Plextor drive actually origin ates 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.

Appendix B: Technical Support

78 PX-820 Installation and Users Manual

How to Contact Plextor Technical Support

There are several ways for you to contact Plextor’s Technical Support
Department:

• Visit our web site (

www.plextor.com) for answers to Frequently

Asked Questions.

• Send us e-mail

([e-mail]). 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 1-820-204-0332 or 937- 615-1610 and select the tech support

option.

Before You E-mail or Call for Support

Please gather as much of the following information as possible before
contacting us.

• The serial number of your PX-820 dr ive. Your serial number appears

on the drive label.

• The latest version of firmware you loaded onto the drive, if

applicable.

• The version of the Windows operating system you are using.

• The brand name and model number of your computer (e.g., Dell

466/NP, Hewlett-Packard Pa vi l i on 7 52 n, etc.).

• The type of VGA, Super VGA, or other graphics board 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).

Appendix B: Technical Support

PX-820 Installation and Users Manual 79

Returns

In the unlikely event that you need to return a drive to Plextor, you need
an RMA (Returned Materials Authorization) number. You will need this
number before any Plextor drive can be returned for replacement. Here’s
how you get an RMA number and return your drive:

1. Contact Plextor Technical Support. You will receive assistance in

troubleshooting your system. If the drive is determined to be
defective, you will receive an RMA number.

2. Plextor will e-mail you with the RMA number and shipping

information.

3. When you receive the RMA number, pack the Plextor drive securely

in a box, and include the RMA number with the drive.

4. Write the RMA number in large bold numbers on the outside of the

box, and ship it to Plextor.

Contacting Plextor’s RMA Department

You can contact our RMA Department and request an RMA number at:

•

[e-mail]

• Or by calling us at 1-820-204-0332 or 937-615-1610.

Packing Your Drive

Check the drive to make sure there is no disc inside, and if possible,
pack your drive in the original box. Some of our customers have not
held on to their boxes and have had to resort to less-than-secure methods
to get drives back to us.

CAUTION: Never ship the drive with a CD or DVD disc inside it.

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 The
UPS Store) to ship your drive. If you don’t have a pack aging store in
your area, ask for packaging point ers w hen y ou c o nt act us t o get an
RMA number before returning any drive.

Appendix B: Technical Support

80 PX-820 Installation and Users Manual

Shipping Your Drive to Plextor

Be sure to write the RMA number on the outside of the shipping box.
Any drive sent to Plextor without an RMA number will not be accepted.

NOTE: The RMA number must be clearly visible on the outside of the
shipping box.

Drives must be sent postage prepaid. We recommend that you insure
your shipment, as Plextor cannot be held responsible for any damage
that may occur during shipment.

PX-820 Installation and Users Manual

81

Appendix C: Warranty

PLEXTOR LLC. (“Plextor”) warrants your PX-820A or PX-820SA
drive 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 replace the defective unit.

This warranty is void: a) if the unit is operated or stored under abnormal
use and/or 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
loss 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 service, you must contact PLEXTOR’s Technical
Support Department by e-mail (

[e-mail]) or by calling

1-820-204-0332 or 937-615-1610. The Technical Support Department
will attempt to diagnose and correct your problem. If the unit does not
function properly, they will provide you with a Return Material
Authorization (RMA) number. You may be asked to furn ish proof of
purchase to confirm that the unit is still under warranty.

All product returns must be authorized in advance by PLEXTOR.
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.

Appendix C: Warranty

82 PX-820 Installation and Users Manual

All drives returned to PLEXTOR must be securely packaged and
shipped postage prepaid.

The drive will be returned to the customer at Plextor’s expense when
originating within the United States. For a drive originating outside of
the United States, the customer is responsible for shipping costs in both
directions.

NOTE: Warranty validity is limited to that applicable in the location where
the drive was originally purchased.

If You’re Outside the U.S. or Canada

Note that the warranty and RMA policy only apply to the United States
and Canada. If you are in South America, contact your dealer or reseller
for all warranty and RMA claims.

PX-820 Installation and Users Manual

83

Index

A

access time · 69
achieving best performance, PX-

820A · 21, 22

ATAPI command set · 74, 76

B

background format, DVD · 2
bay cover panel · 28, 38
black tray · 3
blue book · 65
box contents

PX-820SA · 36
box contents, PX-820A · 11
buffer · 5, 63
Buffer Underrun Proof Technology

· 5

C

cable

40-conductor IDE · 11, 16

80-conductor IDE/ATA · 11, 16

80-conductor IDE/ATA

required · 61
cable select, replacing · 17
IDE · 27, 30
IDE/ATA · 11
power · 27, 37
power for drive · 18
SATA · 37

cable connections

PX-820SA · 40

cable connections, PX-820A · 31
cable select · 14, 25, 26, 73

cable for · 17
configuring PX-820A for · 26
identifying · 17
master · 17
PX-820A installation · 25
setting mode jumper · 19
signal · 26
slave · 17
using 80-conductor Plextor

cable for · 17

cable, IDE/ATA, 80-conductor · 15

required · 10

CD

formats supported · 64
reading speed · 66
recording modes · 5, 64
write methods · 5, 64

CD cleaning disc, don’t use · 8, 51

CD reading speed · 66

CD-DA reading speed · 2
CD-R

compatibility · 5
media · 44
writing · 48

writing speed · 2, 68
CD-R/RW software · 6
CD-ROM, playing · 44
CD-RW

compatibility · 5

high speed · 68

media · 44

normal speed · 68

reading speed · 2

ultra speed · 68

writing · 48

writing speed · 2, 68
CD-TEXT · 5
cleaning disc · 46

Index

84 PX-820 Installation and Users Manual

cleaning your drive · 51

precautions · 7, 51
closing tray · 46
compatibility

CD-R · 5

CD-RW · 5

DVD · 4

DVD+R · 61

DVD+RW · 61
computer, minimum

PX-820A · 72, 75
configuration

cable select · 26

PX-820A minimum · 5, 72

PX-820SA minimum · 75

types of IDE · 15
connector

IDE interface · 10, 29, 35, 73

power · 10, 35

SATA interface · 40
connectors and jumpers, PX-820A

rear-panel · 73
connectors, PX-820SA rear-panel ·

75
controls, front-panel

PX-820SA · 34
controls, front-panel, PX-820A · 9,

63
cover panel, bay · 28, 38
CSEL · See cable select

D

data buffer · 63
dimensions

PX-820SA · 76
dimensions, PX-820A · 73
disc

cleaning · 46

labels · 46

loading · 63
disc/busy indicator

color · 63

disc/busy indicator · 9, 34, 63

color · 49
DMA support · 3, 74, 76
double layer

side 2 · 43
drive, recognizing in Windows · 58
DVD

compatibility · 4

formats compared · 61

formats supported · 4, 64

media · 43

playing · 47

reading speed · 2, 66

recording modes · 4, 64

regional setting · 47, 63

write methods · 4, 64
DVD multi · 61
DVD+R

compatibility · 61

media · 43

software · 6

writing · 48

writing speed · 2, 67
DVD+R DL

lossless linking · 4

writing speed · 67

DVD+RW

compatibility · 61

editing · 4

media · 43

software · 6

writing · 48

writing speed · 67

DVD±R DL media · 43
DVD-R · 61

drive capabilities · 43

writing speed · 2, 67
DVD-R DL

writing speed · 67

zero link · 4
DVD-RAM

Index

PX-820 Installation and Users Manual 85

cartridge not accomodated · 61
media · 44
set-top box and · 6, 44
write methods · 64
writing · 48

writing speed · 67

writing without special software

· 44

DVD-RW · 61

drive capabilities · 43

writing speed · 67

zero link · 4

DVD-Video

reading speed · 2

E

Easy Media Creator · 48
editing DVD+RW · 4
eject

emergency · 9, 34, 53
methods for · 63

eject button · 9, 34

closing tray · 46

electrostatic discharge

specification · 71
EMC standards · 72
emergency eject hole · 9, 34, 53
emergency eject tool · 9, 11, 34,

36, 53
error rate specification · 71

F

FAQs · 61
features · 3

CD-R · 5

DVD · 4
firmware

obtaining · 52

upgrading · 3, 52
flash memory · 3, 52

formats · 64

CD · 5, 64

DVD · 4, 61, 64
frequently asked questions · 61
front panel

changing color of · 3, 54

controls · 9, 63

replacing · 3, 54
front-panel controls

PX-820SA · 34

H

hard disk size · 5, 72, 75
high speed CD-RW

media · 44

write speed · 68

host interface

PX-820SA · 76
host interface, PX-820A · 74
humidity

specification · 69

storage · 70

I

IDE cable, 40-conductor · 16
IDE cable, connecting · 30
IDE configuration

determining for PX-820A · 14

examples · 21

selecting for PX-820A · 21

types of · 15
IDE interface connector · 10, 29,

35, 73
IDE ports · 15
IDE/ATA cable, 80-conductor · 11,

15, 16
inquiry string

PX-820A · 74

PX-820SA · 76
installation

Index

86 PX-820 Installation and Users Manual

examples · 21
PX-820A · 9, 13, 23, 24, 27
PX-820SA · 33, 37

interface

ATAPI · 5
PX-820A · 72, 75

J

jumper

mode · 10, 18

jumper, mode · 73

L

label, disc · 46
laser standards · 72
lossless linking · 4

M

maintenance · 51
master · 14, 21, 73

cable select · 17
PX-820A as · 18
setting drive as · 18
setting in BIOS · 59
setting mode jumper · 19

media · 43

care and handling · 46
CD-R · 44
CD-RW · 44
DVD · 43
DVD+R DL · 43
DVD+RW · 43
DVD-R DL · 43
DVD-RAM · 44
high speed CD-RW · 44
size · 65
supported · 5, 65
ultra speed CD-RW · 44

memory, minimum · 5

minimum cable connections

PX-820SA · 37

minimum cable connections, PX-

820A · 27
minimum computer · 72, 75
minimum configuration · 5, 72
minimum RAM · 5
MMC-5 command set · 3
mode jumper · 10, 73

changing · 19, 20

setting · 18
motherboard BIOS setup program ·

59
mounting position · 27, 37, 47, 69
mounting PX-820A · 27
mounting PX-820SA · 37
mounting rails · 28, 29, 39
MTBF · 71

N

noise specification · 70
normal speed CD-RW

media · 44

write speed · 44, 68

O

OPC · See optimum power control
opening the computer · 13
operating system · 5

PX-820A · 72, 75
optimum power control · 5
orange book · 5, 65

P

packing for shipment · 79
PIO support · 3, 74, 76
playing DVD · 47
Plextor software disc · 11, 36
plug and play, support for · 3

Index

PX-820 Installation and Users Manual 87

position, mounting · 27, 37, 47, 69
power

cable · 18
connecting cable · 30, 41
connector · 35

PX-820SA · 75

connector, PX-820A · 10, 73
precautions · 7
primary IDE port · 15
PX-820 Installation and Users

Manual · 11, 36
PX-820A

achieving best performance · 21,

22
cable connections · 31
configuration examples · 21
connectors and jumpers, rear-

panel · 10
contents of box · 11
controls, front-panel · 9
determining IDE configuration

for · 14
dimensions · 73
host interface · 74
inquiry string · 74
installation · 9, 13, 23, 24
installation examples · 21
installation, cable select · 25
interface · 3, 5, 72, 75
minimum computer · 72, 75
minimum configuration · 72
mode jumper · 18
mounting · 27
operating system · 5, 72, 75
power requirements · 73
quickstart installation · 12
rear-panel connectors · 10, 73
selecting IDE configuration · 21
system requirements · 72
weight · 73

PX-820SA

cable connections · 40

connectors, rear-panel · 35
contents of box · 36
controls, front-panel · 34
dimensions · 76
host interface · 76
inquiry string · 76
installation · 33, 37
interface · 3, 5
minimum configuration · 75
mounting · 37
operating system · 5
rear-panel connectors · 35, 75
system requirements · 75
weight · 76

PX-820SA power requirements ·

75

Q

questions, frequently asked · 61
quickstart installation, PX-820A ·

12

R

rails · 28, 29, 39
RAM, minimum · 5

read specification

CD · 66

DVD · 66

reading speed

CD-RW · 2

digital audio · 66

DVD · 2
DVD-Video · 2

rear-panel connectors

PX-820A · 10
PX-820SA · 35

recognizing the PX-820 drive in

Windows · 58

recording modes

CD · 5, 64
DVD · 4, 64

Index

88 PX-820 Installation and Users Manual

DVD-RAM · 64
red book · 65
region code · 47, 63
regional setting · 47, 63
reliability · 71
returns · 11, 36, 79
RMA number · 11, 36, 79, 80
running optimum power control · 5

S

safety standards · 72
SATA interface connector · 40
screws, mounting · 31, 41
secondary IDE port · 15
security sticker · 11, 36
selecting an IDE configuration · 21
serial number, recording · 27, 37
shipping your drive · 11, 36, 79, 80
shock specification · 71
slave · 14, 21, 73

cable select · 17

setting drive as · 18

setting in BIOS · 59

setting mode jumper · 19
sleep mode · 69
software · 6

CD-R/RW · 6

DVD+R · 6

DVD+RW · 6

Easy Media Creator · 6, 48

Sonic Solution · 6, 48
Sonic Solution · 6, 48
specifications · 63
speed

reading CD-ROM · 66

reading CD-RW · 2

reading digital audio · 66

reading DVD · 2, 66

reading DVD-Video · 2

writing CD-R · 2

writing DVD+R · 2

writing DVD+R DL · 2
writing DVD+RW · 2
writing DVD-R · 2
writing DVD-R DL · 2
writing DVD-RW · 2

support · 77

T

technical support · 77, 78
temperature

specification · 69
storage · 70

transfer rate

CD · 69
DVD · 68

tray

changing door color · 3, 54
closing · 46
front door · 9
loading and unloading · 45

loading specification · 71
tray front door · 34
troubleshooting · 58

U

ultra DMA

support · 3, 76
ultra DMA support · 74
ultra speed CD-RW

media · 44

write speed · 44, 68
upgrading firmware · 3, 52

V

vibration specification · 70

W

wake mode · 69

Index

PX-820 Installation and Users Manual 89

warranty · 81
web site, Plextor · 77
weight

PX-820SA · 76
weight, PX-820A · 73
white book · 65
write methods

CD · 5, 64

DVD · 4, 64

DVD-RAM · 64
writing

DVD-RAM · 44
writing a CD

image · 5
writing a CD image · 72, 75
writing speed

achieving · 44

CD-R · 2, 68

CD-RW · 2, 68

DVD+R · 2, 67

DVD+R DL · 2, 67

DVD+RW · 67

DVD-R · 2, 67
DVD-R DL · 2, 67

DVD-RAM · 67
DVD-RW · 67

high speed CD-RW · 44
IDE/ATA cable and · 10, 61
normal speed CD-RW · 44

ultra speed CD-RW · 44
writing to CD-R · 48
writing to CD-RW · 48
writing to DVD+R · 48
writing to DVD+RW · 48
writing to DVD-RAM · 48

Y

yellow book · 65

Z

zero link · 4

PLEXTOR LLC
830 Hillview Ct.
Suite 210
Milpitas, CA 95035

Phone:
Fax:
E-mail:

408-719-3000

408-719-3030

[e-mail]

www.plextor.com