Sony DRX-830U Users guide

IT

2-698-960-11 (2)

BG68-01242A REV.01

DVD/CD
Rewritable Drive

Operating Instructions

JP

FR

DE

ES

IT

CS

DRX-830U

© 2006 Sony Corporation

Safety Regulations

WARNING

You are cautioned that any changes or
modifications not expressly approved in this
manual could void your authority to operate
this equipment.
To reduce the risk of fire or electric shock, do
not expose this apparatus to rain or moisture.
To avoid electrical shock, do not open the
cabinet. Refer servicing to qualified personnel
only.

CAUTION:

As the laser beam used in the DRX-830U is
harmful to the eyes, do not attempt to
disassemble the cabinet. Refer servicing to
qualified personnel only.
The use of optical instruments with this
product will increase eye hazard.
The use of controls or adjustments or
performance of procedures other than those
specified herein may result in hazardous
radiation exposure.

The DRX-830U is classified as a CLASS 1
LASER PRODUCT.
The CLASS 1 LASER PRODUCT label is
located on the enclosure.

Bei diesem DRX-830U handelt es sich um ein
Laser-Produkt der Klasse 1.
Das Etikett mit der Aufschrift LASER
KLASSE 1 PRODUKT befindet sich auf

Gehäuse

.

CLASS 1
LASER PRODUCT

LASER KLASSE 1
PRODUKT

LUOKAN 1 LASERLAITE

KLASS 1 LASER APPARAT

dem

FCC Compliance:

This equipment has been tested and found to
comply with the limits for a Class B digital
device, pursuant to Part 15 of the FCC Rules.
These limits are designed to provide reasonable
protection against harmful interference in a
residential installation. This equipment
generates, uses, and can radiate radio
frequency energy and, if not installed and used
in accordance with the instructions, may cause
harmful interference to radio communications.
However, there is no guarantee that
interference will not occur in a particular
installation. If this equipment does cause
harmful interference to radio or television
reception, which can be determined by turning
the equipment off and on, the user is
encouraged to try to correct the interference by
one or more of the following measures:

• Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna.

• Increase the separation between the
equipment and receiver.

• Connect the equipment into an outlet on a
circuit different from that to which the
receiver is connected.

• Consult the dealer or an experienced radio/
TV technician for help.

The shielded interface cable recommended in
this manual must be used with this equipment
in order to comply with the limits for a digital
device pursuant to Subpart B of Part 15 of FCC
Rules.

Notes:

If you have any questions about this product,
visit the user support web site listed in “Product
and Support Information” page. The telephone
number below is not for customer service but
only for official purpose.

Declaration of Conformity

Trade Name: SONY
Model No.: DRX-830U
Responsible Party: Sony Electronics Inc.
Address: 16530 Via Esprillo,

Telephone No.: 858-942-2230

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.

San Diego, CA 92127
U.S.A.

2

CE Sicherheitsbestimmungen

Diese Ausrüstung erfüllt die Europäischen EMC-Bestimmungen für die Verwendung in
folgender / folgenden Umgebung(en):

• Wohngegenden

• Gewerbegebiete

• Leichtindustriegebiete
(Diese Ausrüstung erfüllt die Bestimmungen der Norm EN55022, Klasse B.)

CAUTION

The mains plug on this equipment must be used to disconnect mains power.
Please ensure that the socket outlet is installed near the equipment and shall be easily
Accessible.

Achtung

Zur Trennung vom Netz ist der Netzsecker aus der Steckdose zu ziehen, welche sich in der
Nähe des Gerätes befinden muß und leicht zugänlich sein soll.

Compliance Statements

Disposal of Old Electrical & Electronic Equipment (Applicable in the European
Union and other European countries with separate collection systems)

This symbol on the product or on its packaging indicates that this product shall
not be treated as household waste. Instead it shall be handed over to the applicable
collection point for the recycling of electrical and electronic equipment. By
ensuring this product is disposed of correctly, you will help prevent potential
negative consequences for the environment and human health, which could
otherwise be caused by inappropriate waste handling of this product. The

information about recycling of this product, please contact your local Civic Office, your
household waste disposal service or the shop where you purchased the product.

recycling of materials will help to conserve natural resources. For more detailed

3

Table of Contents

Safety Regulations .......................... 2

Compliance Statements ..................3

Introduction

Unpacking the Package Contents ... 6

Features ...........................................6

System Requirements ..................... 7

Part Names and Functions .............. 8

Setup

Placing the Drive .......................... 10

Using the Drive Vertically ......... 10

Using the Drive Horizontally ..... 10

Connection through USB ............. 11

Before Connection ..................... 11

Installation .................................. 11

Disconnection ............................. 12

Turbo Boost Function .................24

Miscellaneous

Precautions for Use .......................25

Specifications ................................26

Support Overview .........................28

User Support Web Site ...............28

Update the Drive Firmware ........28

Product and Support

Information .................................28

Operation

Using the Drive .............................13

Supplied Software ...................... 13

Using Generic Software with the

Drive ........................................... 14

Compatible Discs .......................... 15

Recommended Writable Discs ... 17

Writable Disc Features ............... 18

Precautions on Writing/Playing

Discs ............................................. 22

Maximizing Performance ............. 24

Reaching the Highest Possible Data

Transfer Rate ..............................24

Updating the Firmware ..............24

4

• is a trademark of Sony Corporation.

• Pentium is a registrated trademark of Intel Corporation.

• Microsoft, MS, MS-DOS, Windows, and Windows Vista are registered trademarks of Microsoft
Corporation.

• Other system and product names used herein are registered trademarks or trademarks of their
respective manufacturers, although the ™ and ® marks are not used in the text.

❑ Our product warranty is valid only when the supplied accessories (including software) are

used in the specified or recommended system environment, in accordance with the
documentation, and applies only to this DVD/CD rewritable drive. Our customer service
and user support apply only under these product warranty conditions.

❑ Please note that we cannot accept responsibility for failure of the computer or other

devices, incompatibility with special hardware, operating problems caused by improper
installation of software, loss of data, discs or other accidental or incidental damage that
might occur when using this product.

❑ The guarantee and user support for this product are valid only within the countries or sales

regions specified on the warranty card.

❑ Copyright laws prohibit the copying in part or in full of the supplied software and

documentation, or loaning the software, without obtaining permission of the copyright
holder.

❑ We cannot accept responsibility for any direct or indirect financial damage or loss of profit

that might occur when using the supplied software.

❑ The supplied software can only be used with this product.

❑ Specifications of the supplied software may be changed without notice in the interest of

product improvement.

Please Record Responsibly

Before copying anything onto a disc, please be sure that you are not violating copyright
laws. Most software companies allow you to make a backup or archive copy of software.
Check your software’s license agreement for details.

5

B Introduction

Unpacking the Package Contents

Please verify that the package contains the
following when unpacking.
If any of these items appear to be missing
and/or damaged, please contact your dealer.

•Drive

• Hi-Speed USB cable

•Quick start guide

• Operating instructions
(this document)

•AC power cord

• AC adapter (MPA-AC1)

• Software Quick Start Guide

•Software disc

•Stand

• Warranty card

Features

This product offers the following features.

❑ An external DVD/CD rewritable drive

with Hi-Speed USB (USB 2.0­compliant) interfaces for computers.

❑ Can be used horizontally or vertically.
❑ The drive can write to DVD+R

Double Layer and DVD-R Dual Layer
discs.

❑ You can write at a maximum of 18x

when using high speed DVD+R, DVD­R discs.

❑ The drive can write to DVD-RAM discs.

❑ Features the

technology to prevent buffer underrun
errors.

Note

Make sure that you back up the supplied
software disc on another disc because the
software disc is not distributed
independently.

6

System Requirements

The drive should be used with a system that
meets the following requirements1).

❑ PC/AT-compatible computer
❑ CPU: Pentium III, 800 MHz or higher

(Pentium 4, 2.0 GHz or higher
recommended)

❑ 256 MB RAM (512 MB for Windows

Vista) or more

❑ 1 GB (10 GB for DVD creation) free

hard disk space

❑ Operating system:

Windows 2000 Professional SP4
(referred to as Windows 2000 SP4),
Windows XP Home Edition SP2/
Windows XP Professional SP2
(referred to as Windows XP SP2), or
Windows Vista Home Basic/Windows
Vista Home Premium/Windows Vista
Business/Windows Vista Ultimate

❑ USB connector

1)

The above requirements are the minimum
necessary requirements to write to disc
normally. Under actual operating conditions,
the requirements imposed by your software
must also be met. For details, refer to your
software documentation.

Notes

• You must use discs that are compatible with the
write speed you have selected.

• Writing speed may automatically be adjusted
depending on the disc, specified disc speed, or
disc conditions such as weight imbalance and
eccentricity.

• System should meet following requirements in
order to use USB 2.0 operation with this device.

− Hi-Speed USB (USB 2.0-compliant)

interface cable (included).

− System equipped with a Hi-Speed USB (USB

2.0-compliant) connector or PCI adapter
card, and running the USB 2.0 EHCI device

1)

.

driver

1)

The USB 2.0 EHCI driver software is
supplied with currently available PCI
adapter cards that conform to USB 2.0.
You can also use the USB 2.0 EHCI driver
software supplied with Windows 200 0 SP4
and Windows XP SP1.

For details, contact your USB 2.0 adapter
dealer or consult the Microsoft
Corporation Web site.

• When connected to a product that does not
support Hi-Speed USB, the maximum transfer
rate is limited to 12 Mbps (equivalent to a USB

1.1 transfer rate).

Introduction

7

Part Names and Functions

Front Panel

1 234

Rear Panel

5

6
7

8

A Busy indicator

Indicates the drive status.
Lit: The drive is reading data,

playing back an audio CD, or
writing packets.

Blinking:

The drive is writing data
(disc-at-once, track-at-once),
formatting a disc, or

1)

deleting

data from a disc.

Off: The drive is in a state other

1)

Some drives indicate this state with the lit
indicator.

than those outlined above.

B Eject button

Press to open and close the disc tray.

C Emergency eject hole

If you cannot open the disc tray with the
eject button, turn off the drive, and then
insert a thin, elongated object into this
hole to eject the disc tray manually.

D Disc tray

Insert discs here, label side up.

Hint

When you insert a disc into the drive, make
sure that it is under the four pins. When using
the drive vertically, make sure that you set the
disc inside the two lower pins.

E USB Connector

Used with a USB cable to connect the
drive to a computer.

F Power Switch

Press to turn the drive on or off.

G DC IN Jack

Connect the supplied AC power cord to
the AC power adapter. Connect this
assembly to the DC IN jack, and then
connect the whole to the AC outlet.

Introduction

9

B Setup

Placing the Drive

Using the Drive Vertically

Attach the supplied stand as illustrated below to use the drive vertically.

Position the drive so that the stand straddles the two anti-vibration pads on the
drive bottom and then press it into place.

Using the Drive Horizontally

10

Place the drive as illustrated below to use the drive horizontally.

Connection through USB

Note

This product including bundled software functions properly under Windows XP and
Windows 2000.
It may not fulfill all functional and performance specification under other OS (operating
system) environment.

Before Connection

• Refer to the list of contents to verify that the package contents are complete.

• If your computer is not equipped with a USB connector, install a USB
interface card.

• Have the manual for your computer handy.

Installation

These instructions apply to most commonly used computers.

CAUTION

Using the wrong type of cable with this product can cause it to malfunction.
Follow the instructions when connecting the product.

1 Start your computer.

2 Connect the necessary cables, then turn on the drive.

• Connect the USB cable to the drive’s USB connector.

• Connect the supplied AC power cord to the supplied AC adapter. Then
connect the AC adapter to the drive’s DC IN jack, and connect the power
cord to the power outlet.

Setup

Power Switch USB Cable

AC adapter AC power cord

11

3 Connect the other end of the USB cable to your computer.

Note

Connect the drive to a USB connector on the computer.

4 Insert the supplied software disc into the DVD/CD rewritable

drive and install the software.

Refer to the Software Quick Start Guide for details.

Disconnection

The disconnection procedure varies depending on your OS.

When your computer detects the drive successfully, appears on the
Windows task bar. When you want to disconnect the drive, you must first stop
it using this icon.

12

1 Click on the task bar, and click the drive to be disconnected

on the shortcut menu.

2 Operate following the message displayed, if any.

3 Disconnect the USB cable.

Note

If you disconnect the USB cable without performing the procedure above, your computer
may operate erratically or data may be damaged. Be sure to perform the procedure above
before disconnecting the USB cable.

B Operation

Using the Drive

Use the supplied software to create discs and play back DVDs. Refer to the
documentation of each software for details about their operation.

Supplied Software

The supplied software disc contains the following software.

Nero Home

Nero Home is a media management software with a simplified TV interface.
It allows quick access to your entire digital media library via remote control.

Nero Scout

Nero Scout is a media database software accessible from any Nero application
and many Windows applications, like Windows Explorer. It allows you to
browse all of your media files instantly.

Nero StartSmart

Nero StartSmart serves as the command center to quickly start all the software
of the Nero suite.

Nero Express

A light version of the Nero Burning ROM software. Makes it even easier job
to create CDs and DVDs.

Operation

Nero BackItUp

Nero BackItUp is software that allows you to back up the data on your hard
disk to the hard disk, DVD+R/RW, DVD-R/RW, DVD-RAM, or CD-R/RW
discs.

Nero Vision

DVD-Video and video CD authoring software.

Nero ShowTime

DVD-Video and video CD playback software.

Nero Recode

Nero Recode is software for compiling, copying and archiving DVD-Video
titles and other video files (that are not copy-protected) onto DVD+R/RW,
DVD-R/RW, DVD-RAM, or CD-R/RW discs.

Nero CoverDesigner

CD and DVD cover and label creation software.

13

Nero MediaHome

This software allows you to share video and audio files among several
computers on a network connection and to play back such files seamlessly
from any of the connected computers.

Nero PhotoSnap

This software can be used to edit image and picture files.

Nero PhotoSnap Viewer

This software can be used to view image and picture files.

Nero Toolkit

The utilities of Nero Toolkit provide information about the system and more. Nero
CD-DVD Speed tests the speed of the existing drives. Nero DriveSpeed adjusts the
write speed to minimize drive noise. Nero InfoTool provides the main
characteristics of drives, the discs they contain, and the installed software

Using Generic Software with the Drive

Using software other than the supplied software (such as generic software,
shareware, or freeware) to write data to disc with this drive is not under
warranty and Sony offers no customer service if problems arise from using
such software.

Make sure that the supplied writing software and generic writing software do
not coexist on your computer. Taking appropriate steps to avoid this situation,
especially in the case of packet writing software
prevent erratic operation of the software and/or computer.

.

1)

or format utility2)will help

14

If the generic software you are using does not detect the drive correctly, visit
the Web site of the software manufacturer and update the software, as this may
solve the problem.

1)

Such as Roxio’s Drag-to-Disc, BHA’s B’s CLIP, and Sonic’s DLA

2)

Such as BHA’s DVD-RAM Driver and Panasonic’s DVD Form

Compatible Discs

R DL

The following discs are compatible with the drive.

DVD

Disc types Logo Read Write Write speed

1)

DVD+R

DVD+R DL
(Double layer)

DVD+RW

DVD+RW
(High Speed)

DVD-R

DVD-R DL
(Dual Layer)

DVD-RW

DVD-RAM

2)

3) 4)

R DL

Speed supported by the disc
(max. 18×)

Speed supported by the disc
(max. 8×)

Speed supported by the disc
(max. 4×)

Speed supported by the disc
(max. 8×)

Speed supported by the disc
(max. 18×)

Speed supported by the disc
(max. 8×)

Speed supported by the disc
(max. 6×)

Speed supported by the disc
(max. 12×)

DVD-ROM — —

DVD-Video — —

1)

Writing speed supported by the drive. Depending on your software and media, this speed
may vary.
For more details on writing speed by disc type, access the user support Web site (see
page 28).

2)

This drive is compatible with the DVD-RW disc displaying “ ” mark.

3)

This drive is compatible with the DVD-RAM disc displaying “ ” mark.

4)

Use a non-cartridge-type disc or a cartridge from which the disc can be ejected.

Operation

15

CD

Disc types Logo Read Write Write speed

CD-R

Speed supported by the disc
(max. 48×)

CD-RW

Speed supported by the disc
(max. 4×)

CD-RW
(High Speed)

CD-RW
(Ultra Speed)

CD-RW
(Ultra Speed Plus)

CD-ROM

Speed supported by the disc
(max. 10×)

Speed supported by the disc
(max. 24×)

Speed supported by the disc
(max. 32×)

——

1)

CD-DA
(audio only)

CD Extra

Video CD

CD TEXT

1)

Writing speed supported by the drive. Depending on your software and media, this speed
may vary.
For more details on writing speed by disc type, access the user support Web site (see
page 28).

——

——

——

——

Disc diameters Read Write

DVD

CD

Notes

• Only round discs should be used with this drive. Attempting to read odd-shaped discs
(stars, hearts, card shape, etc.) may damage the drive.

• Operation is not guaranteed when writing to or playing back 99 minute discs.

• With 8 cm discs, you must place the drive horizontally.

• When using a double-sided disc, orient the drive horizontally.

12 cm

8 cm —

12 cm

8 cm

16

Recommended Writable Discs

We recommend that you only use discs for which operation has been
guaranteed. You can obtain the latest list of writable discs for which operation
with this drive has been guaranteed at the user support Web site address (see
page 28 for details).

User support Web site

Insert the supplied software disc into the drive, and in the [Menu Selection]
screen, click [User Support Web Page]. You can also directly type the user
support Web site address (see page 28 for details) in the address box of your
Web browser.

Note

You can safely use most disc formats that comply to the appropriate standards with this drive.
However, bear in mind that some generic discs do not comply to quality or performance
standards necessary for safe use with this drive. If you use such discs, the drive may
automatically adjust the writing speed, writing errors may occur, and discs that have been
written to may generate reading errors, etc.

Operation

17

Writable Disc Features

You can use a variety of discs with the drive to write data. Refer to the table
below to find the type of disc that matches what you want to do.

Want to create DVD­Video that can be
played back by most
drives and/or players

Want to create DVDs
that you can modify

Want to create DVDs
to which you can add
to later.

Want to create video
CDs that can be played
back with most
computers

Want to use DVDs as
you would video tapes
(allowing multiple
rewrites)

Want to share 700 MB
of data or more

Want to share data that
can be used on most
computers

Want to create audio
CDs that be played
back by most CD
players

Want to back up your
hard disk

Want to store data
without deleting it

Want to use discs as
floppy disks

DVD+R

DVD+R DL

DVD+RW

DVD-R

DVD-R DL

DVD-RW

DVD­RAM

CD-R CD-RW

18

Note

You can access/play back the data written to the discs above with most drives/players that
support their formats. However, some combinations of drives/players and discs (depending
on their quality and/or characteristics) may make access/playback impossible. For details,
refer to your drive/player documentation.

Writable CDs and compatibility

The drive can write to CD-R and CD-RW discs, when used with writing
software.
To play back (read) these CD-R and CD-RW discs on other CD-ROM drives,
make settings on the writing software according to the purpose of the data.

CD-R Discs

Data can be written to this type of disc only once, and once it has been written,
it cannot be erased. Music CDs created on CD-R disc media can be played on
standard CD players.

CD-RW Discs

Data can be written to and erased from this type of disc repeatedly. Typically,
a new CD-RW disc can be rewritten about 1,000 times.
Music CDs created on CD-RW disc media cannot be played on a CD player
unless it is designed to be CD-RW compatible.

High Speed CD-RW Discs

The drive can write to High Speed CD-RW disc media. Data written on High
Speed CD-RW discs can be read by standard CD-ROM drives.

Note

Drives that do not have the High Speed CD-RW logo cannot be used to write to High Speed
CD-RW discs. When writing or adding to such discs with a drive other than this one, make
sure that the drive has the High Speed CD-RW logo. Also, always set the writing speed to
that specified for the particular High Speed CD-RW disc media being used.

Ultra Speed CD-RW Discs

The drive can write to Ultra Speed CD-RW disc media. Data written on Ultra
Speed CD-RW discs can be read by standard CD-ROM drives.

Operation

Note

Drives that do not have the Ultra Speed CD-RW logo cannot be used to write to Ultra Speed
CD-RW discs. When writing or adding to such discs with a drive other than this one, make
sure that the drive has the Ultra Speed CD-RW logo. Also, always set the writing speed to
that specified for the particular Ultra Speed CD-RW disc media being used.

Ultra Speed Plus CD-RW Discs

The drive can write to Ultra Speed Plus CD-RW disc media. Data written on
Ultra Speed Plus CD-RW disc can be read by standard CD-ROM drives.

Note

Drives that do not have the Ultra Speed Plus CD-RW logo cannot be used to write to Ultra
Speed Plus CD-RW discs. When writing or adding to such discs with a drive other than this
one, make sure that the drive has the Ultra Speed Plus CD-RW logo. Also, always set the
writing speed to that specified for the particular Ultra Speed Plus CD-RW disc media being
used.

Writing Speed

When writing to CD-R and CD-RW discs, set the writing speed to that
specified on the disc. Change the writing speed on the writing software.

19

About playback/reading compatibility in CDs

CD-R and CD-RW discs created with the drive can be read on most CD-ROM
drives. However, some older CD-ROM drives cannot read CD-RW discs.
In addition, CD-R music discs created and finalized with the drive can be
played on most CD players, however, there are some CD players and
automobile CD players that do not guarantee playback of CD-R discs.
Also, CD-R music discs created with the drive can be played back on many
standard CD players. However, depending on the type of your player, playback
of CD-R and CD-RW discs may not be supported.
Further, because of the differences in quality and characteristics between
various CD-ROM drive, CD player, CD-R disc, and CD-RW disc
manufacturers, playback may not be possible depending on the combination.

Writable DVDs and compatibility

The drive can write to DVD+R DL, DVD+R, DVD-R DL, and DVD-R discs,
as well as to DVD+RW, DVD-RW and DVD-RAM discs, when used with
writing software. The playback (read) compatibility of data written by this
drive depends on the capabilities of the DVD-ROM drives or the DVD players
and on the logical format selected when the disc is recorded (written).

DVD+R DL/DVD+R/DVD-R DL/DVD-R Discs

Data can be written to this type of disc only once. Once it has been written, it
cannot be erased. Playback (read) compatibility of DVD+R and DVD-R discs
depends on the capability of the DVD-ROM drive and the DVD player and on
the logical format selected when it is recorded (written).

DVD+RW and DVD-RW Discs

Data can be repeatedly written to or erased from this type of disc. Typically, a
new DVD+RW or DVD-RW disc can be rewritten about 1,000 times.
Playback (read) compatibility of DVD+RW and DVD-RW discs depends on
the capability of the DVD-ROM drive and the DVD player and on the logical
format selected when it is recorded (written).

20

DVD-RAM Discs

Data can be repeatedly written to or erased from this type of disc. Typically, a
new DVD-RAM disc can be rewritten about 100,000 times. To play back (or
read the data on) a DVD-RAM disc, a DVD-ROM drive or DVD player that
supports DVD-RAM discs is required.

About playback/reading compatibility in DVDs

DVD+R DL/DVD+R/DVD-R DL/DVD-R discs, as well as DVD+RW and
DVD-RW discs created and finalized with the drive can be played back on
almost all DVD-ROM drives. However depending on the type of your drive,
playback of DVD+R DL, DVD+RW, DVD-R DL, and DVD-RW discs may
not be supported.
In addition, some drives do not support multi-session (DVD+R DL/DVD+R/
DVD+RW) or multi-border (DVD-R DL/DVD-R/DVD-RW). In these cases,

you can only play back the disc in single-session (DVD+R DL/DVD+R/
DVD+RW) or single-border (DVD-R DL/DVD-R/DVD-RW).
Also, DVD-Video discs created with the drive can be played back on many
standard DVD players. However depending on the type of your player,
playback of DVD+RW and DVD-RW discs may not be supported.
Playback of DVD-RAM discs is only supported for DVD-RAM compatible
DVD drives and DVD players.
Further, because of the differences in quality and characteristics between
various DVD-ROM drive, DVD player, DVD+R DL disc, DVD+R disc,
DVD+RW disc, DVD-R DL disc, DVD-R disc, DVD-RW disc and DVD­RAM disc manufacturers, playback may not be possible depending on the
combination. (Playback compatibility is not under warranty.)

Operation

21

Precautions on Writing/Playing Discs

Write speed and compatible discs

• When writing data to disc at high speeds, you must use the appropriate type
of disc.

• Configure the writing speed through your writing software. For details about
the setting procedures, refer to your writing software documentation.

• When writing data to disc, the drive may adjust the writing speed to the
quality of the disc in the drive. Depending on the transfer rate, there may also
be limitations on writing speeds.

DVD region codes

The playback of DVD-Video (DVD discs) is protected and controlled by a
region code setting. For the drive to play back DVD-Video, the region code on
the DVD disc, the region code of the drive, and the region code of the
DVD-Video software must all match.

With this drive, the region code can be set up to five times, including the initial
assignment (RPC phase 2

1)

standard). After setting the region code five times,
the setting becomes permanent and can no longer be changed. From this point
on, you are only able to play back DVD-Video whose region code matches the
one set the fifth time.

Do not attempt to make unauthorized changes to the region code. Any
problems resulting from doing so are not covered by the warranty.

Hint

You can change the region code of the drive on it’s properties dialog box accessible from the
Device Manager.

Precautions when playing back DVD-Video

DVD-Video disc playback conditions are sometimes determined by software
manufacturers. Because the drive plays back discs as determined by software
manufacturers, some drive functions may not always perform as expected.
When playing back DVD-Video, refer to the documentation accompanying
each disc.

DVD copy protection technology

Most DVD-Video discs on the market are protected against unauthorized
copy. Attempting to copy protected discs violates copyright laws.

1)

Region Playback Control (RPC) standard.

22

Copy controlled CDs

This product is designed to play back discs conforming to the compact disc
(CD) standard. Audio CDs encoded with copyright protection technology are
now marketed by various record companies. Be aware that some of these discs
do not conform to the CD standard and you may not be able to play them back
with the drive. When using the drive as an audio CD player, only use audio
CDs with the following mark. Some of these discs are encoded in such a way
as to prevent sampling and/or copy, while others can only be played back
under certain conditions. For details, refer to the documentation of your audio
CD.

Attention Regarding DualDisc Software

A DualDisc is a two sided disc product which mates DVD recorded material on
one side with digital audio material on the other side.
However, since the audio material side does not conform to the Compact Disc
(CD) standard, playback on this product is not guaranteed.

Operation

23

Maximizing Performance

Reaching the Highest Possible Data Transfer Rate

Make sure that you use High Speed discs for which this operation has been
certified by Sony. For the latest information about these discs, visit the user
support Web site. When using discs other than those mentioned above, the
drive may limit writing speed to preserve a good reading quality.

Updating the Firmware

We recommend using the drive with the latest firmware as some problems
encountered when using the drive can be solved simply by updating the drive
firmware. Firmware updates are available on the user support Web site. see
page 28 for details.

Hint

The firmware is the built-in software that makes the drive work.

Turbo Boost Function

The default CD-R and CD-ROM read/write speed of this drive is 40× speed.
With a single touch, you can activate the Turbo Boost function, to raise the
read/write speed to 48× speed.

24

Notes

• On rare occasions, some discs may not be able to tolerate 48× speed, causing them to break.

We recommend that you do not use deeply scratched, brittle, or other discs that may break
at 48× speed.

• The Turbo Boost function does not guarantee a 48× write speed. Depending on the

condition of the disc you are using, the speed may be automatically lowered.

• The Turbo Boost function does not increase read/write speed with CD-RW discs.

1 Insert a disc into the drive.

The read/write speed when you insert a disc is normally 40× speed.

2 Press and hold the Eject button for five seconds.

The Busy indicator blinks twice and the read/write speed switches to 48×
speed. (The Turbo Boost function is active.)

Hint

When you open the disc tray, the read/write speed reverts to its default of 40× speed.

B Miscellaneous

Precautions for Use

Operation and storage conditions

Avoid using or storing the drive in a hot or
humid location, or where it might be subject
to severe vibration or direct sunlight.

On transportation

• Please repack the drive in its original
carton when shipping by itself.

• If the drive is to be shipped, remove any
disc beforehand.

Avoiding condensation problems

As much as possible, avoid sudden
temperature changes. Do not attempt to use
the drive immediately after moving it from a
cold to a warm location, or raising the room
temperature suddenly, as condensation may
form within the drive. If the temperature
changes suddenly while using the drive, stop
using it but keep the power on for at least an
hour.

• Do not store discs in dusty, dirty or humid
locations, in direct sunlight, or near heat­generating devices.

• To protect important data, always keep
discs in their protective cases.

• Do not wipe writable discs to clean them
before recording data. Instead, use a
blower to remove any dust.

• Data may not record properly if a scratch
or dust is present on the unrecorded area of
writable discs. Use special care when
handling.

Miscellaneous

Handling discs

• Handle discs only by the edges. Never
touch the recording surface.

• Do not affix labels on discs.

25

Specifications

Compatible discs Read Write

DVD+R(4×) 12×-CAV 4×
DVD+R(8×) 12×-CAV 8×-PCAV
DVD+R(16×) 12×-CAV 18×-CAV
DVD+R Double Layer 8×-CAV 2.4×
DVD+R Double Layer(8×) 8×-CAV 8×-ZCLV
DVD+RW 8×-CAV 2.4×
DVD+RW(4×) 8×-CAV 4×
DVD+RW(High Speed) 8×-CAV 8×-ZCLV
DVD-R(4×) 12×-CAV 4×
DVD-R(8×) 12×-CAV 8×-PCAV
DVD-R(16×) 12×-CAV 18×-CAV
DVD-R Dual Layer 8×-CAV 8×-ZCLV
DVD-RW(2×) 8×-CAV 2×
DVD-RW(4×) 8×-CAV 4×
DVD-RW(6×) 8×-CAV 6×-ZCLV
DVD-RAM(5×)
DVD-RAM(12×)
DVD-ROM 16×-CAV —
DVD-Video 6×-CAV —
CD-R 48×-CAV
CD-RW 40×-CAV 4×
CD-RW(High Speed) 40×-CAV 10×
CD-RW(Ultra Speed) 40×-CAV 24×-ZCLV
CD-RW(Ultra Speed Plus) 40×-CAV 32×-ZCLV
CD-ROM 48×-CAV
CD-DA 16×-CAV —
CD-DA(DAE) 40×-CAV —

Disc diameters
DVD 12 cm

CD 12 cm

1)

Use a non-cartridge-type disc or a cartridge
from which the disc can be ejected.

2)

The default setting is 40×. You must use the
turbo boost function to achieve 48× speed.

3)

With 8 cm discs, you must place the drive
horizontally.

Depending on your system, there may be
limitation on maximum writing speed.

1)

1)

8 cm

8 cm

(max.) (max.)

5×-CLV 5×-CLV

12×-PCAV 12×-PCAV

3)

3)

2)

2)

48×-CAV

—

—

Writing systems

DVD

Random write
Sequential write

CD

Track-at-once
Disc-at-once
Session-at-once
Packet writing

Drive

Data transfer rate

DVD: 24.9 MB/s (18×speed

1)

)

CD: 7.2 MB/s (48×speed1))

Access time

Average random stroke

Approx. 140 ms (DVD)

Approx. 130 ms (CD)

1)

2)

Maximum data transfer rate depends on the
capabilities of the host computer.

Buffer underrun error protection

Operating environment

Operating temperature
5 to 35 ºC

Power and miscellaneous

Power source

DC +12 V (supplied from the DC IN jack)

Consumption

Max. 3.0 A

AC adapter

AC 100 - 240 V (use a power cord
appropriate to the region or country of use)

26

Size

Approx. 52 × 164 × 250 mm (W×H×D)
(excluding front panel)

Weight

Approx. 1.6 kg (drive only)

Laser
CD

Wavelength: 784 nm
Output power (max.): 253 mW

DVD

Wavelength: 660 nm
Output power (max.): 247 mW

Interface

Drive interface

USB 2.0-compliant (Hi-Speed USB) ×1

Buffer capacity

2MB

Drive product number (Inquiry)

SONY DVD RW DRU-830A

Design and specifications are subject to
change without notice.

Miscellaneous

27

Support Overview

Product and Support
Information

If you have problems with the drive, or are
unsure of a procedure or some other details,
please contact your Sony customer support
center.

User Support Web Site

You can find the following information on
this Web site. The information is
periodically updated, so we recommend that
you visit regularly.

• Information about the drive

• Information about the software supplied
with the drive

• Latest firmware

• Frequently asked questions

• Troubleshooting guide

• Certified compatible computers

• Certified compatible discs

• Operating instructions

• Et cetera

Accessing the user support Web
site

Insert the supplied software disc into the
drive, and in the [Menu Selection] screen,
click [User Support Web Page]. You can
also directly type the user support Web site
address (see Product and Support
Information for details) in the address box of
your Web browser.

Update the Drive Firmware

Some problems encountered when using the
drive can be solved simply by updating the
drive firmware. Firmware updates are
available on the user support Web site.
Access the site, make sure that there is an
update for your firmware, and follow the
instructions on the screen to proceed with
download and installation.

Sony Global Sites Information
(As of January, 2007)

Product purchased in the USA:*

http://sony.storagesupport.com/

Product purchased in Canada:

http://www.sony.ca/

Product purchased in Australia or New
Zealand:

http://www.sony.com.au/

Product purchased in Europe:*

http://www.sonyisstorage.com/

Product purchased in Hong Kong:*

http://www.sony.com.hk/Electronics/cp

Product purchased in China:*

http://www.sony.com.cn/ed/cp

Product purchased in Singapore:

http://www.css.ap.sony.com/

Product purchased in Taiwan:*

http://www.sony.com.tw/ds/

Product purchased in Korea:*

http://www.sony.co.kr/cp

Product purchased in Brazil:

http://www.sony.com.br/eletronicos

Product purchased in the Middle East:

http://www.sony-mea.com/

* Local Web sites for computer peripheral

products

About the Bundled Software

Detailed information about the supplied
software is available on the Web sites of the
software manufacturer.
http://www.nero.com

28

Technical Support

Please consult the above sources before
calling with questions about using this
product, or with technical questions about
the drive or the supplied software. If using
telephone or e-mail support, please have the
following information available:

• Model number: DRX-830U

• Serial number

• Date and place of purchase

• Computer maker and model number

• Computer specifications (CPU speed,
memory size, OS version, etc.)

• Writing software used (version, etc.)

Local technical support is only
available in the specified sales
regions. The customers in these
regions should be provided with a
warranty card for this product. For
contact information, refer to the
warranty card.

Note that technical support
conditions may vary according to
the locality, and that charges
and/or limited service may apply in
some regions.

Miscellaneous

29

30

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Sony Corporation Printed in Indonesia