Learning the Basics

89

Using the optical drive

Using the optical drive

Optical storage has become the preferred medium for software, music, and video. Digital versatile discs (DVDs) provide a significant increase in data storage and support features that are not available on any other video platform. These features include wide- screen movies, multiple language tracks, digital surround sound, multiple camera angles, and interactive menus.

For these reasons, your computer may come with an optical drive.

TECHNICAL NOTE: Your optical drive is set to play region 1 (North America) DVD-ROMs. If you play a DVD disc from another region, the drive will automatically change to play in the format of the other region. The drive will allow you to change regions four times. On the fourth change, the region will be “locked in.” That is, the drive will only play DVDs from that last region. Note that changing from region 1 to region 2 and back to region 1 is counted as two changes.

NOTE For optimum DVD performance, it is recommended that you play DVDs while running the computer on AC power.

NOTE When viewing DVD movies use the DVD Player software that came with your computer.

Optical drive componentsThe optical drive is located on the side of the computer.Your optical drive may look like this:

Drive in-use indicator light

Eject button

Manual eject hole

(Sample Illustration) Optical drive

Drive in-use indicator light—Indicates when the drive is in use. Eject button—Press to release the disc tray.