PX-740A - DVD Burner PLEXTOR - Free user manual and instructions

USER MANUAL PX-740A PLEXTOR

INSTALLATION AND USERS MANUAL

Plextor reserves the right to make improvements in the products described in this manual at any time without prior notice. Plextor makes no representation or warranties with respect to the contents hereof and specifically disclaims any implied warranties of merchantability or fitness for any particular purpose. Further, Plextor Corp. reserves the right to revise this manual and to make changes in its content without obligation to notify any person or organization of such revision or change. This manual is copyrighted, all rights reserved. It may not be copied, photocopied, translated, or reduced to any electronic medium or machine-readable form without Plextor’s prior permission. Manual copyright ©2005 Plextor Corp. First edition, May 2005. Licenses and Trademarks Plextor and the Plextor logo are registered trademarks of Plextor Corp. All other licenses and trademarks are property of their respective owners. Record Your Serial Number For future reference, record the serial number and the TLA code (found on your drive’s label) in the space provided below. TLA/Firmware Revision Number

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 bottom 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. PX-740A Installation and Users Manual

Bottom View of Internal Drive, Showing Caution Label Location Class 3B Class 1 warning | L label

Front of drive Detail of PX-740A Laser Caution Labels iv PX-740A Installation and Users Manual

. Getting Started . Installing the PX-740A Internal ATAPI Drive About this Manual ‘What’s In This Manua Printing the Manual … Meet Your PX-740A Features of the PX-740A Minimum Configuration to Use the PX-740A What You Can Do with the PX-740A About Software … Precautions … Where to Go From Here PX-740A Drive Features and Controls. Front Panel—PX-740A Internal Driv Rear Panel—PX-740A Internal Drive What Else Is In the PX-740A Box Save Your Box! PX-740A QuickStart Installation Mount the PX-740A Drive. Open the Computer and Prepare for Installation . Determine Your Existing IDE Configuration. Inspect Your Computer’s Cables. Confirm That You Have an 80-Conductor IDE Cabl Do You Have Cable Select?. Do You Need a Power Cable? Set the Drive’s Mode Jumper. Changing the Mode Jumper on Your PX-740A Drivi Select an IDE Configuration About Cable Select. Mount the PX-740A Drive Record the Serial Number … Mount the Drive in the Compute Using Sound Boards and Audio Cables

‘What Media to Use … DVD Media. CD-ROM Media Tray Loading and Operation Handling DVD and CD Media Cleaning Discs Mounting Positio Playing DVDs. Writing to DVD Media. Specifying +R/RW or -R/RW Writing to CD-R and CD-RW Media Using the LED Indicator…

4. Maintenance and Troubleshooting

Cleaning the PX-740A Drive Upgrading Firmware. Emergency Eject … Troubleshooting Make Sure the Drive Is Recognize

5. Frequently Asked Questions …

Congratulations! Thank you for purchasing the Plextor® PX-740A, 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. What's In This Manual 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. Printing the Manual This manual has been sized for viewing on a computer monitor screen. To print a hard copy of this manual:

1. In Acrobat, select File | Print. You see the Print dialog box.

2. In the Print dialog box, choose the printer.

3. If you want to print on standard 8-1/2 x 11 paper, you can check the

Expand small pages to paper size box. This expands the manual’s pages so they nearly fill up a standard-sized page.

4. When you have made your selections, click OK. The manual is

printed. PX-740A Installation and Users Manual À

Section 1. Getting Started

Meet Your PX-740A The PX-740A is a DVD ReWritable/CD ReWritable drive that provides professional quality DVD and CD performance for writing, rewriting and reading. What the PX-740A Does For DVDs, the PX-740A: °__Writes DVD+R (recordable DVD, “plus” format) media at up to 16X speed on recommended 16X media. °__Writes DVD+R DL (double layer) media at up to 8X speed. +. Writes DVD-R DL (dual layer) media at up to 4X speed. °__Writes DVD-R (recordable DVD, “dash” format) media at up to 16X speed on recommended 16X media. °_ Writes DVD+RW (rewritable DVD, “plus” format) media at up to 8X speed. (Requires 8X media for 8X writing.) °_ Writes DVD-RW (rewritable DVD, “dash” format) media at up to 6X speed. °_ Supports DVD+VR format for read and write. °__Reads stamped DVD discs at up to 16X. e__ Reads DVD-Video discs with CSS at up to 4X CAV. For CDs, the PX-740A: °__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, CD-RW, and CD-R data media at a maximum of 48X speed. °__ Reads CD-DA (audio) and CD-R audio media at up to 40X speed. + Reads CD-RW audio media at up to 40X speed. Features of the PX-740A + _ ATAPI interface: The PX-740A easily installs in virtually any PC with an E-IDE ATAPI interface. ° High speed transfers: The PX-740A supports data transfers via Ultra DMA33, DMA Mode 2, and PIO Mode 4. 2 PX-740A Installation and Users Manual

Section 1. Getting Started

MMC compliance: Supports the MMC-4 command set. Flash memory: Allows upgrading the PX-740A to the latest firmware revision (available free 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. Digital and analog audio outputs: The PX-740A has output connectors for both digital (SPDIF) and analog audio output. CPRM support: The PX-740A supports Content Protection for Recordable Media, so you can play CPRM copy-controlled media. Small form factor: To save space inside your computer, depth of the PX-740A is just 6.99 inches (177.5 millimeters), including the bezel. DVD Features Lossless linking for DVD+R/RW and DVD+R DL: Allows DVD+RW dises to be edited and still play on DVD-ROM players. Zero Link for DVD-R/RW, DVD-R DL: Has 0 byte gap between sessions so the discs are compatible with all players. This allows DVD-RW dises to be edited and still play on DVD-ROM players. Double layer and dual layer DVD dises: 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 DVD+R/RW and DVD-R/RW media compatibility: Compatible with a wide range of DVD+R and DVD+RW media. Multiple DVD types: Supports DVD-ROM, DVD-Video, multi- border, multi-session and DVD+VR, for read and write. PX-740A Installation and Users Manual 3

Section 1. Getting Started

Versatile recording modes for DVD-R/RW: Including disc-at-once (DAO) for DVD+R DL (double layer) discs; DAO, multi-session, and incremental write for DVD+R; and random access write and sequential write for DVD+RW. Recording versatility for DVD-R/RW, too: Including sequential write 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. CD-R and CD-RW Features Variety of recording modes: Supports track-at-once, disc-at-once, session-at-once, multi-session, 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 compatibili and II. : Compatible with Orange Book, Parts II OPC and ROPC: Optimum Power Control and Running Optimum Power Control, which adjust the laser power for the optimum write strategy. CD-TEXT, CD+G: Supports CD-TEXT and CD+G reading. Overburn: À way of burning more information onto a CD—audio up to 99 minutes 59 seconds in length, or a data disc up to 875 megabytes in capacity. 4 PX-740A Installation and Users Manual

Section 1. Getting Started

Minimum Configuration to Use the PX-740A Here’s what you’ll need in order to install and use the PX-740A drive. Computer: Pentium 4, 1.4-GHZ or faster CPU. Minimum RAM: 256 MB. Interface: Model PX-740A requires an IDE ATAPI interface. 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-740A requires Windows XP, 2000, Me, or 98SE. NOTE: You cannot use the PX-740A with early versions of Windows 98; if you are using Windows 98, it must be Windows 98SE (Second Edition). What You Can Do with the PX-740A Just look at some of the things you can do with your PX-740A: Record slide shows or digital video onto DVD+R DL, DVD-R DL, DVD+R, DVD-R, DVD+RW and DVD-RW discs. Play DVD-ROM, DVD+R DL, DVD-R DL, DVD+R, DVD+RW, DVD-R, and DVD-RW discs. Record data or audio onto writable or rewritable CD media. Play music CDs. Save photos and other images on rewritable or writable CDs. Create a CD or DVD “sneakernet” to share information with colleagues—just use software such as Ahead Software’s InCD 4 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. PX-740A Installation and Users Manual 5

Section 1. Getting Started

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’Il get software packages that include such software. Ahead’s Nero 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 Nero is InCD 4, which makes the Plextor PX-740A drive as easy to use as a hard disk drive. (For more information about Nero, install this application and examine the help files.) For details on other 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/Compatibility section of www.plextor.com. Precautions Like the rest of your computer system, your PX-740A 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. 6 PX-740A Installation and Users Manual

Section 1. Getting Started

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. Do not attempt to clean your drive using a CD cleaning disc. These discs can damage your drive permanently. Where to Go From Here See Section 2, beginning on page 9, to learn how to install your drive. PX-740A Installation and Users Manual 7

Section 1. Getting Started

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PX-740A Internal ATAPI Drive This section explains how to physically install your PX-740A internal ATAPI drive in your computer. PX-740A 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-740A Internal Drive PX740A Ï Î Emergency Eject eject hole button Tray front door LED indicator Figure 1: Front panel of the PX-740A internal ATAPI drive + _ LED indicator: Illuminated green for disc reading, blinking green for writing. °__ Tray front door: Attached to disc tray drawer. PX-740A Installation and Users Manual 9

° _ 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 this feature. e__ Eject button: Push once to eject tray. Push again to insert the tray back into the PX-740A. To prevent wear on the drive, always use the eject button to insert the tray. Rear Panel—PX-740A Internal Drive Also familiarize yourself with the drive’s rear panel. IDE/ATA Power cable connector connector Digital] Analog audio audio output output connector connector Figure 2: Rear panel of the PX-740A internal ATAPI drive ° Digital audio output connector: Outputs a digital stereo signal. Use this to connect to a sound board that supports Sony/Philips Digital Interface (SPDIF) or Digital-In. °__ Analog audio output connector: Outputs an analog stereo signal. Use this to connect to a sound board or audio amplifier. Use a Standard MPC-3 type, 4-pin connector. 10 PX-740A Installation and Users Manual

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-740A will operate with a 40-wire IDE cable, it may not be able to write DVDs at 16X 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-740A. What Else Is In the PX-740A 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 Plextor drive was in their poss. on. Plextor currently sells the PX-740A drive in this configuration: PX-740A DVDER DL, DVD+R/RW and CD-R/RW drive 80-conductor IDE/ATA cable 4 mounting screws Extra jumper Emergency eject tool Plextor software disc with a PDF file of the PX-7404 Installation and Users Manual. Also contains Ahead Software’s Nero OEM Suite. Drive Installation Guide PX-740A Installation and Users Manual 11

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’Il want to send it in the original box. (For more details about returning your drive to Plextor, see page 65.) Ifthe security sticker on top of your box is cut, there may be a good reason: for example, a dealer may have added other components or software. Carefully check the contents to ensure nothing has been removed. If something is missing, contact the party from whom you purchased the box for an explanation. NOTE: This applies to the Plextor retail box. Your drive may have been shipped in a different box with other contents, depending on whom you purchased the drive from and what they included inside the box. 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. 12 PX-740A Installation and Users Manual

PX-740A QuickStart Installation For Experienced PC Users Only If you’ ve installed computer peripherals before, use this QuickStart installation to get up and running quickly. IMPORTANT NOTE: To ensure maximum writing speed, you must connect the PX-740A 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.) The Plextor- supplied cable is an 80-conductor cable. Typical Scenario 1: You have a PC with an IDE interface installed, you have Windows 98SE, Me, 2000, or XP, and you have nothing installed on the secondary IDE port. What to do: Leave the PX- 740As 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 98SE, Me, 2000, 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-740A°s jumper set to Master and attach the PX-740A 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. PX-740A Installation and Users Manual 13

Section 2. Installing the PX-740A Internal ATAPI Drive

Mount the PX-740A Drive Here’s an overview of what you’Il do to mount the drive:

1. Turn OFF your computer system.

2. Set the jumpers for your new PX-740A drive, if necessary.

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

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

5. Turn your computer system ON.

The following pages give more details for this procedure. Open the Computer and Prepare for Installation To determine whether your PX-740A 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.

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. 14 PX-740A Installation and Users Manual

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 port 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-740A 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 computers, this configuration required a special Cable Select cable. If there are two IDE cables, one is for the primary IDE bus and the other is for the secondary bus. PX-740A Installation and Users Manual 15

Before you install your PX-740A, 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. e_ 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 (16X), you should make sure the PX-740A 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 physically interchangeable with the older cable. And in fact, your PX-740A drive may work fine with a 40- conductor cable. But to ensure writing at maximum speed, it's best to use the newer 80-conductor cable, such as the one provided by Plextor. 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. 16 PX-740A 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, t00. Red stripe Red stripe

Blue Gray Black Figure 4: Comparing the older 40-conductor cable (top) to the new 80- conductor type (bottom). Be sure to use the 80-conductor cable. The extra IDE/ATA cable shipped with your PX-740A is the new 80- conductor version. So if you have an older 40-conductor cable, replace it with the 80-conductor cable that came with your Plextor drive. (Or purchase an 80-conductor IDE/ATA cable at an electronics supply store.) PX-740A 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.

Fo = = ASS # SJ EL Blue Gray Black (Motherboard) (Slave) (Master) 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 with the 80-conductor IDE/ATA cable from Plextor. (Al 80-conductor 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. 18 PX-740A 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-740A. 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-740A 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/Compag, Dell, or Gateway, you will need to pay particular attention to whether the computer 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. PX-740A Installation and Users Manual 19

Changing the Mode Jumper on Your PX-740A 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.) CABLE SELECT MASTER SLAVE

[E=E==EREEt Mode jumper 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. 20 PX-740A 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 bofh 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. e To install a jumper, push it onto the jumper pins. CAUTION: Ensure power to the drive is OFF before installing or removing a jumper.

Install jumpers this way DO NOT install jumpers this way (Vertically) (Horizontally) 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 result in damage to the drive. PX-740A Installation and Users Manual 21

Select an IDE Configuration Set the PX-740A°s jumper and cable it according to the desired configuration. Keep these rules in mind: e_ For best DVD+RW and CD-RW performance, try to connect the PX-740A 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. e For best results, set the PX-740A to be the Master, if possible. e__If you have only one device on a cable, always set its jumper as the Master, never as the Slave. Before PX-740A How to Install the PX-740A Installation A | Hard disks connected as Remove the DVD-ROM or Master and Slave devices on CD-ROM drive, change it to primary IDE port, DVD-ROM or | Slave, and re-connect it to the CD-ROM drive connected as secondary IDE port. Master device on secondary IDE port. Set the mode jumper to Master, and connect the PX-740A as Master device to the secondary IDE port. Hard disk Hard disk connected connected 28 master as slave Primary IDE Po Connect Connect DVD Set Plextor drives Plextor dre or CD-ROM jumper to: 2 master drive as slave cs S$ M Secondary IDE Port Figure 8. How to install the PX-740A if your computer is originally set up in configuration À 22 PX-740A 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-740A 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-740A, 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-740A can still make successful copies if you use software that supports this feature. (AIl software shipped with PX-740A 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. PX-740A Installation and Users Manual 23

Before PX-740A How to Install the Installation PX-740A B | Hard disk connected as Master | Set the mode jumper to Master, device, and CD-ROM or DVD- | and connect the PX-740A as ROM drive connected as Slave | Master to secondary IDE port. on the primary IDE port; nothing connected to secondary IDE port. DVD or CD-ROM drive connected as slave Hard disk connected 26 master Primary IDE Port Connect Set Plextor drives Plextor drive jumper to: las master cs S M Secondary IDE Port OCE

Figure 9. How to install the PX-740A if your computer is originally set up in configuration B 24 PX-740A Installation and Users Manual

Before PX-740A Installation How to Install the PX-740A 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-740A as Master to secondary IDE port. Primary IDE Port Secondary IDE Port Hard disk connected 26 master Connect Set Plextor drive's Plextor drive jumper to as master cs S M o00

Figure 10. How to install the PX-740A if your computer is originally set up in configuration C PX-740A Installation and Users Manual 25

Before PX-740A Installation How to Install the PX-740A System uses special Cable Select cables; all devices are jumpered for Cable Select. Set the PX-740A's mode jumper to CSEL, and connect the drive to the end of the cable from the computer's IDE interface connector. Hard disk connected as slave Primary IDE Port Connect DVD or CD-ROM drive as slave Secondary IDE Port Hard disk connected as master Connect Plextor drive 25 master Set Plextor drives mode jumper to: cs S M OCDD O00 Figure 11: How to install the PX-740A if your computer is originally set up in configuration D 26 PX-740A Installation and Users Manual

About Cable Select The Cable Select jumper position sets the PX-740A 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. CABLE SELECT MASTER SLAVE BRIE BRIE (esnnennensenns | Mode jumper Figure 12: Configuring the PX-740A drive for Cable Select To use CSEL, you must have: + A computer that supports CSEL. e_ An IDE cable that supports CSEL (Cable Select). The 80-conductor IDE/ATA cable from Plextor supports CSEL. PX-740A Installation and Users Manual 27

Mount the PX-740A Drive Before proceeding to install the PX-740A drive in your personal computer, double-check your jumper setting. Record the Serial Number Record the serial number and TLA 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-740A. You must make a minimum of two cable connections to your PX-740A. The two cable connections that you must make are: e IDE cable + Power cable There are also two optional cable connections: ° An analog audio cable connection if you are using a sound board in your computer and plan to connect the PX-740A°s audio output to the audio connector on the sound board. °__A digital audio cable connection if the sound board is equipped with SPDIF or Digital-In and you wish to use the digital audio output from your PX-740A. To mount the PX-740A 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. 28 PX-740A Installation and Users Manual

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. 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.) *—— Available bay with cover panel removed Figure 13: Removing the cover panel from a bay 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. PX-740A Installation and Users Manual 29

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. 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. 30 PX-740A Installation and Users Manual

If not already connected, attach the other end of the IDE ribbon cable to the connector on the motherboard. Pin #1 Red stripe

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-740A drive, and any other internal IDE peripherals. 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. PX-740A Installation and Users Manual 31

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. Internal Plextor drive Digital audio cable (optional) IDE ribbon cable Digital-In or SPDIF Power CD-ROM audio connector on sound supply connector on PC board Figure 16: Cable connections for an internal IDE drive

10. Connect the analog audio cable if you want to use a sound board in

your system. This cable runs from the four-pin analog audio output connector on the rear panel of your drive to the CD-ROM audio connector on the PC or your sound board. See “Using Sound Boards and Audio Cables” below for more information about audio cables. 32 PX-740A Installation and Users Manual

11. Connect a digital audio cable if your sound board is equipped with

the Sony/Philips Digital Interface (SPDIF) or Digital-In, and you wish to use the digital audio output from your PX-740A. This cable runs from the digital audio output connector pins on the PX-740A back panel to the sound board. (This cable is not supplied by Plextor.)

12. Mount the PX-740A 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. PX-740A Installation and Users Manual 33

Using Sound Boards and Audio Cables ‘Whichever category your sound board falls into, you will find that the best source of information about installing the sound board in your computer is the board's manual. Once you have successfully installed the sound board in your computer, you can continue below for a description of the different cable connections that need to be made. If you need audio cables, you will have to purchase them. Refer to the table below. A list of several vendors who offer audio cables is available on Plextor’s web site. Audio Connection How to Connect It MPC audio source Connect to MPC audio compliant source, and to analog audio audio cable output connector at the rear of the Plextor drive. Sound Blaster or Sound Connect to Sound Blaster- compatible sound Blaster- compatible audio board and board compatible to analog audio output analog audio | connector at the rear of the cable Plextor drive. Digital audio output Cable that's Connect to SPDIF or Digital- compatible In connector on sound board with SPDIF (if sound board supports or Digital-In. digital audio) and to digital audio output connector at the rear of the Plextor drive. 34 PX-740A Installation and Users Manual

This section explains how to use your PX-740A drive and how to load, handle and care for your DVDs and CDs. What Media to Use Use the right media! Your PX-740A 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-740A can read and write either media format, in single layer or double layer media. It supports all these types of DVD media: + Digital Video Dises: 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. en © 0 > DVD ROL DVD+R DVD+ReWritable RW DVD -ReWriatis Figure 17: 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. PX-740A Installation and Users Manual 35

CD-ROM Media In addition, you can use these types of CD media: °_ CD-ROM: You can immediately play or read prerecorded compact disces, 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 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 4X or 10X. °_ Using Ultra Speed CD-RW discs (US-RW media) in this drive, you can rewrite at up to 24X. °__ With Ultra Speed Plus CD-RW discs (US-RW+ media) you can rewrite at up to 32X. 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-740A, are identified by a “Compact Disc ReWritable Ultra Speed” logo. COMPACT COMPACT 3 COMPACT & \compacr cé: } F Figure 18: The logo also identifies the type of CD-RW media See “Recommended Media” on page 51 for a list of Plextor-approved media at the time this manual was printed, and see the Plextor web site at www.plextor.com for an updated list. 36 PX-740A Installation and Users Manual

Section 3. Using Your PX-740A

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 19: 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. 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 ofthe 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 errors during recording. When picking up or holding blank media you can either place your fingers along the outer edge of the disc, or place one finger through the center hole and one finger on the outer edge. Once you have finished creating a disc, label it by writing on the top using 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. PX-740A Installation and Users Manual 37

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 di: to record on a dirty disc may result in a failed ss s must be clean. Trying sion 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. Figure 20: 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-740A drive in either a horizontal or a vertical position. 38 PX-740A Installation and Users Manual

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. 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 change the drive’s region code only 5 times. Afier 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 or to DVD-R DL, DVD-R and DVD-RW discs. Ahead Software’s Nero 6 OEM Suite (on the CD that accompanies your PX-740A) contains this software. 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 Ahead Software’s Nero or Roxio Easy Media Creator 7 allows you to write audio, video, data, or other information to writable (CD-R) or rewritable (CD-RW) media. The PX-740A writes to all types of CD- RW media. PX-740A Installation and Users Manual 39

Using the LED Indicator The color and blink rate of the front-panel LED indicator give you information about the drive’s operation. When you are writing to a CD-R or CD-RW disc, the color and blink rate of the front-panel LED indicator indicate the speed of writing, as follows: Oper: LED color On/Off/B| Blinki erval No disc = Off = Loading Green On until ready |- Standby — Off — Read Green On = CD/DVD write Green Blink 2 blinks/sec Test write Green Blink 2 blinks/sec CD/DVD Tray locked and Green Blink 1 blink/sec eject button pushed (during read/write) Tray locked and _- Off _- eject button pushed 40 PX-740A Installation and Users Manual

4. Maintenance and Troubleshooting

This section explains maintenance and troubleshooting procedures for your PX-740A 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-740A 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: e_ If your drive is still in warranty and you are experiencing problems, send the drive to Plextor. (See “Returns” on page 65.) e__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. PX-740A Installation and Users Manual 41

Section 4. Maintenance and Troubleshooting

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 PX- 740A drive please visit our web site at www.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: 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.

42 PX-740A Installation and Users Manual

Section 4. Maintenance and Troubleshooting

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

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

clip or other thin, rigid object, into the emergency eject hole. Figure 21: Emergency eject

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

4. Carefully continue to slide the disc tray open.

5. Remove the CD from the disc tray.

6. Carefully push the disc tray shut.

PX-740A Installation and Users Manual 43

Section 4. Maintenance and Troubleshooting

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-740A 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 CD- ROM drive, if present. The Plextor icon may be D: or E: or another designator.

3. Ifthe PX-740A 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-740A, 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).

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

new settings. 44 PX-740A Installation and Users Manual

Section 4. Maintenance and Troubleshooting

5. In Windows 98SE, or Me, once the system comes up click the Start

button, then Settings, then Control Panel, then double-click on System icon, then click on Device Manager tab. Click the + sign next to the DVD/CD-ROM drives heading and look for the “PLEXTOR DVDR PX-740A” entry underneath. -or- In Windows 2000 or XP, right-click on the My Computer icon and select Properties. Click on the Hardware tab, then click on the Device Manager button. Click the + sign next to the DVD/CD-ROM drives heading and look for the “PLEXTOR DVDR PX-740A” entry underneath. 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-740A Installation and Users Manual 45

Section 4. Maintenance and Troubleshooting

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5. Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Why do I need an 80-conductor IDE cable for the PX-740A? Your PX-740A will operate with either the older 40-conductor cable or the newer 80-conductor IDE/ATA cable. However, the 80-conductor cable improves performance, and the PX-740A may not be able to write at maximum speed (16X) 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-740A. (The extra wires are present to reduce interference that would slow high-speed transfers.) 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 metric measurement. Different manufacturers support different standards. The DVD+R and DVD+RW formats are supported by Plextor, Philips, Sony, Hewlett- Packard, Dell, Ricoh, Yamaha and other 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. 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-740A can handle it. PX-740A Installation and Users Manual 47

Section 7. Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What is “recommended media”? A: Recommended media are recordable or rewritable CD and DVD media that have been tested by Plextor and found to operate well consistently, from one manufacturing lot to another. For each drive, Plextor engineers test media from many different manufacturers and manufacturing facilities, creating a recommended media list and determining the optimum write strategy for that particular media type. The results are listed as “recommended media,” and are also assembled into a media catalog and stored in firmware in Plextor drives. (See page 51 for a list of recommended media for the PX-740A at the time this manual was printed, and see the Plextor web site at www.plextor.com for an updated list.) From time to time, the media catalog is updated with new manufacturers and part numbers as Plextor tests additional media. When this happens, Plextor makes new drive firmware available. You can download this new firmware and update your drive. Q: In the list of Recommended Media, what’s the difference between “rated,” “compatible,” and “recommended” speeds? A: “Rated” is the manufacturer’s rated write speed for the media; it's what you see on the box. “Compatible” is a looser term that indicates the maximum safe writing speed according to the manufacturer. “Recommended” is the Plextor-recommended speed for ensuring top-quality writing using this media. Plextor tests media and enters the “compatible” and “recommended” speeds into the drive’s media catalog. For example, 8X-rated media listed as “12X writing recommended” and “16X compatible” indicates the manufacturer believes this 8X-rated media can be written at 16X. Plextor factory testing has determined you will achieve the highest quality write at 12X. Plextor’s testing also indicates you can write this media at 16X and still achieve good quality, although perhaps not as high as at the recommended speed. Just because the vendor rates a disc for a certain speed doesn't mean that the disc will give you a high-quality write at that speed. However, the PoweRec technology in your Plextor drive ensures you will write at the highest possible speed that still achieves high quality. 48 PX-740A Installation and Users Manual

Appendix A: PX-740A Specifications Minimum System Requirements—PX-740A Internal ATAPI Drive Computer Minimum RAM Hard Disk Size Interface Operating System Usable Formats Logical DVD Read/Write Logical CD Read/Write Write Methods, DVD+R/RW,

Write Methods, DVD-R/RW, DVD-R DL Write Methods, CD-R/RW Pentium 4, 1.4-GHz or equivalent 256 MB 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.) IDE (ATAPI) supported Windows XP, 64-bit Windows XP, 2000, Me, or 98SE DVD-ROM, DVD-Video, Multi-Border, Multi-Session, DVD+VR CD-DA, CD-ROM Mode-1, CD-ROM Mode-2, CD- Extra, CD-ROM XA, Photo CD, Video CD, Multi- Session, CD-TEXT, CD-I, Mixed CD. Also CD+G (read only). “_ DVD+#R: Disk-At-Once (DAO), Multi-Session “_ DVD+RW: Sequential Write “_ DVD+R DL: Disk-At-Once (DAO), Multi-Session “ DVD-R: DAO, Multi-Border Recording “ DVD-RW: DAO, Multi-Border Recording, Restricted Overwrite “ DVD-R DL: DAO, Multi-Session Track-At-Once (TAO), Disk-At-Once (DAO), Packet Write (variable and fixed), Session-At-Once (SAO). PX-740A Installation and Users Manual 49

Appendix A: PX-740A Specifications Supported Media Supported . Media, DVD . Stamped DVDs: Single layer / Double layer DVD-R: For General Part 1 Physical Specification Version 2.1 DVD-RW: Part 1 Physical Specification Version 1.1/1.2 DVD-R DL: Supported by future firmware upgrade. DVD+R: Part 1 Volume 1 Basic Format Specification Version 1.3 DVD+R DL: Part 2 Basic Format Specification Version 1.0 DVD+RW: Part 1 Volume 1 Basic Format Specification Version 1.3;

Version 1.0 Supported “ Stamped CDs: Discs compliant with Media, CD Red/Yellow/Green/White/Blue Book “ CD-R: Orange Book Part II Volume 1, Volume 2 “ CD-RW: Orange Book Part III Volume 1, Volume 2, Volume 3 Supported CD: 12 cm. Media Size DVD+R/RW/: 12 cm, 8cm 50 PX-740A Installation and Users Manual

Appendix A: PX-740A Specifications Recommended Media Recommended media are recordable or rewritable CD and DVD media that have been tested by Plextor. For the latest updated list of recommended media for the PX-740A, see the Plextor web site at www.plextor.com. NOTE: For the media below: Rated means the maximum write speed established by the media vendor. Recommended is the Plextor-recommended speed, which means that testing by Plextor engineers indicates the media will achieve top quality when written with the PX-740A at that speed. Compatible means the manufacturer indicates the disc can be written at this higher-than-rated speed, although an increase in errors may occur. PoweRec in the Plextor drive performs real-time monitoring of write quality and adjusts the write speed up and down to ensure the best quality possible. DVD+R media Mitsubishi Chemical/Verbatim, Taiyo Yuden 16X-rated DVD+R media: “_8X, 12X, 16X writing recommended Maxell, Mitsubishi/Verbatim, Ricoh, Taiyo Yuden 8X- rated DVD+R media: “_4X, 8X writing recommended Maxell, Mitsubishi/Verbatim, Taiyo Yuden 4X-rated DVD+R media: “_4X writing recommended PX-740A Installation and Users Manual 51

Appendix A: PX-740A Specifications Recommended Media (continued) DVD+RW media

media DVD-R media DVD-R DL media Mitsubishi Chemical/Verbatim, Ricoh 4X-rated DVD+RW media: “_2,4X, 4X writing recommended NOTE: All DVD+RW media are rewritable up to 1,000 times. Mitsubishi Chemical/Verbatim 2.4X-rated DVD+R media: =_2.4X, 4X, 8X writing recommended Taiyo Yuden, Maxell, Mitsubishi Chemical/Verbatim, TDK 16X-rated DVD-R media: = 8X, 12X, 16X writing recommended Mitsubishi Chemical/Verbatim 8X-rated DVD-R media: “_4X, 8X writing recommended Maxell 8X-rated DVD-R media type HC-1: = 8X writing recommended TDK 8X-rated DVD-R media: “_8X, 12X writing recommended Taiyo Yuden 8X-rated DVD-R media: “_4X, 8X, 12X writing recommended Taiyo Yuden, TDK, Maxell, Mitsubishi Chemical/Verbatim 4X-rated DVD-R media: “_4X writing recommended Supported by future firmware upgrade. See the Plextor web site at www.plextor.com for details and up-to-date media list. 52 PX-740A Installation and Users Manual

Appendix A: PX-740A Specifications Recommended Media (continued) DVD-RW media CD-R media Victor, Mitsubishi Chemical/Verbatim, TDK 6X-rated DVD-RW media: “_4X, 6X writing recommended Mitsubishi Chemical/Verbatim, TDK 4X-rated DVD- RW media: “_2X, 4X writing recommended Mitsubishi/Verbatim, TDK 2X-rated DVD-RW media: “_2X writing recommended NOTE: All DVD-RW media are rewritable up to 1,000 times. Maxell U/G 48X-rated CD-R media, 80 min: “_16X-48X writing recommended Maxell U/G 48X-rated CD-R media, 74 min: “_16X-40X writing recommended Ricoh 40X-rated CD-R media, 80 min: “_16X-32X writing recommended TDK 52X-rated CD-R media, 80 min: “_12x-48X writing recommended Taiyo Yuden DX 52X-rated CD-R media, 74 min: “_16X-40X writing recommended Taiyo Yuden DX 52X-rated CD-R media, 80 min: “_12X-48X writing recommended Taiyo Yuden tuned 32X-rated CD-R media, 80 min, 74 min: “_16X-32X writing recommended PX-740A Installation and Users Manual 53

Appendix A: PX-740A Specifications Performance Specifications (continued) Read Speed, | Speed Mode-1 Mode-2 CD-DA CD Discs Discs Discs 48X CAV_ | Stamp,R Stamp,R Stamp,R 40X CAV Stamp,R, Stamp,R, Stamp,R, RW RW RW 32X CAV | Stamp,R, Stamp,R, Stamp,R, RW RW RW 24XCAV | StampR, Stamp,R, Stamp,R, RW RW RW 16X CAV | StampR, Stamp,R, Stamp,R, RW RW RW 10X CAV | StampR, Stamp,R, Stamp,R, RW RW RW NOTE: “Stamp” indicates commercially pressed “silver” discs. Write Speed, | Speed +R +RW I +R | -R | -R RW

16XCAV | |- = = 7 | 12X V | = = V7 |- PCAV

8XCLV = NY = |- |- =

56 PX-740A Installation and Users Manual

Appendix A: PX-740A Specifications Performance Specifications (continued) DVD Transfer Rate CD Transfer Rate Initialization Time Access Time Wake Mode Speed Write (KB/s) Read (KB/s) 16x 22160 (CAV) 22160 (CAV) 12X 16620 (PCAV) 16620 (CAV) 8x 11080 (PCAV) 11080 (CAV) 8X 11080 (ZCAV) = (DVD+RW only) EX 8310 (ZCAV) 8310 (CAV) 4X 5540 (ZCAV) 5540 (CAV) 2.4x 3324 (ZCAV — Speed Write (KB/s) Read (KB/s) 48X 7200 (CAV) 7200 (CAV) 40X 6000 (CAV) 6000 (CAV)

24X 3600 (ZCAV) 3600 (CAV) 16X 2400 (ZCAV) 2400 (CAV) 12X 1800 (ZCAV) 1800 (CAV) 10 1500 (ZCAV) 1500 (CAV) 4X 600 (ZCAV) = Time measured from power on until disc is available to read: 30 sec maximum (DVD or CD) Time measured from command phase until bus free {no disconnect): “ DVD: 150 msec. (Typical) “ CD: 150 msec. (Typical) 4 sec. PX-740A Installation and Users Manual 57

Appendix A: PX-740A Specifications Environmental Conditions Mounting Position Operating Temperature Operating Humidity Transportation or Storage Temperature Transportation or Storage Humidity Acoustic Noise Vibration, Operating Vibration, non operating Shock, Operating Shock, Non- Operating Electrostatic Discharge Horizontal or vertical orientation: “ Horizontal: 0 degrees +15 degrees “ Vertical: 0 degrees +15 degrees 5 to 40 degrees Celsius 20 to 80% (non-condensing) —40 to 60 degrees Celsius 20 to 95% (non-condensing) Maximum 47.5dBA during read and seek at maximum RPM “ Read 5-500 Hz, 0.5gm “ Write 5-500 Hz 0.3gm 5-500 Hz, 2 Gm Read CD/DVD: 6g, 11msec Write CD-R/RW: 2g, 11msec Write DVD-R/RW: 19, 11msec 160g/2msec, 80g/1801PS (Power off, without disc) +8KV aerial discharge +4KV contact discharge Both with no hard errors, no damage 58 PX-740A Installation and Users Manual

Appendix A: PX-740A Specifications Reliability MTBF 125,000 hours Tray Loading 35,000 load/unload cycles Read Error CD-ROM Mode 1: 1 block/10°? bits Rate CD-ROM Mode 2: 1 block/10° bits DVD-ROM: 1 block/10"? bits Front Panel Eject Eject button; manual emergency eject; software eject. LED Indicator “_ Steady green when reading disc “_Blinking green when writing to disc Disc Loading Auto Rear Panel, PX-740A Internal ATAPI Drive Power Supply DC +12V, DC +5V, #10% +5% Typical standby current | 300 mA 600 mA Typical DVD read 660 mA 1.05 À current (at max speed) Typical CD read current | 750 mA 980 mA (at max speed) Typical DVD write 630 À 1.12A current (at max speed) Typical CD write current | 640 mA 1.07 À (at max speed) Typical pause current 100 mA 600 mA Peak current 1.6A 1.6 A Power Average 16.8 W Consumption PX-740A Installation and Users Manual 59

Appendix A: PX-740A Specifications Rear Panel, PX-740A Internal ATAPI Drive (continued) IDE Interface IDE bus, 40-pin flat ribbon type. Interface complies Connector with ATA/ATAPI-5. Must use 80-conductor IDE/ATA cable. NOTE: Although the PX-740A will operate with a 40- conductor cable, it may not be able to write at 16X unless an 80-conductor IDE/ATA cable is used. Maximum total cable length cannot exceed 18 in (45.7 cm). Analog Audio Stereo analog output, Molex connector (L*G*G*R), Output MPC-3 standard Connector Output voltage: 0.725 V +10% Load impedance: 0.725 V rms with 10K ohm loading SIN ratio: 96 dB Total harmonic distortion + noise: 0.02% Dynamic range: 96 dB Channel separation: 90 dB Frequency response: 20Hz-20kHz Digital Audio Digital audio output for input to SPDIF or Digital-In Output input Connector Mode Jumper Master (default), slave, cable select (CSEL) Dimensions and Weight, PX-740A Internal ATAPI Drive Dimensions 5.75" x 1.62" x 6.99" (W/H/D) 146 mm x 41.2 mm x 177.5 mm (including front bezel) Weight 1.9 lbs. (850 g) 60 PX-740A Installation and Users Manual

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 41. You may also wish to refer to the Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) section of our web site to assist you in troubleshooting the problem on your own. NOTE: We encourage you to go the Plextor web site (www.plextor.com) before attempting to contact Technical Support. The answers to the most common questions callers ask can be found quickly in the support area. Select PlexHelper for online troubleshooting or FAQs for answers to common questions. If you have not been successful in your quest, our Technical Support Department will help you solve problems that relate specifically to your PX-740A drive. In many cases, a problem that appears to be caused by your Plextor drive actually originates in another part of your computer. In such instances, our technical support staff will try to help you identify the part at fault and will refer you to the manufacturer of that part for further assistance. PX-740A Installation and Users Manual 63

Appendix B: Technical Support 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 (techsupport@plextor.com). 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 1-800-204-0332 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 and TLA (top level assembly) number of your PX-740A drive. Your serial number and TLA number appear both on the drive label and on a sticker at the rear of internal drives. e 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 Pavilion 752n, etc.). e__ The type of VGA, Super VGA, or other graphics board you use. e__ 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). 64 PX-740A Installation and Users Manual

Appendix B: Technical Support 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

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: ° rma ort(@plextor.com e_ Orby calling us at 1-800-204-0332 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 packaging store in your area, ask for packaging pointers when you contact us to get an RMA number before returning any drive. PX-740A Installation and Users Manual 65

Appendix B: Technical Support 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. 66 PX-740A Installation and Users Manual

Appendix C: Warranty PLEXTOR CORP. (“Plextor”) warrants your PX-740A or PX-740A 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, at its option, repair or 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 (techsupport@plextor.com) or by calling 1-800-204-0332 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 furnish 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. PX-740A Installation and Users Manual 67

Appendix C: Warranty 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. 68 PX-740A Installation and Users Manual

FAQs : 47 features - 2 CD-R : 4 DVD :3 firmware obtaining - 42 upgrading : 3, 42, 48 flash memory - 3, 42 formats + 49 CD :4,49 DVD : 3, 47,49 frequently asked questions - 47 front panel controls + 9, 59

jumper mode : 11, 19, 60 PX-740A Installation and Users Manual 71

maintenance - 41 master - 15, 22, 60 cable select - 18 PX-T40A as : 19 setting drive as - 19 setting in BIOS - 44 setting mode jumper + 20 media - 35 care and handling - 37 CD-R : 36 CD-RW - 36 DVD -35, 51

mounting position - 28, 38, 58 mounting PX-740A - 28 mounting rails + 29, 30 MPC-compliant audio cable - 34 MTBE : 59

packing for shipment - 65 PIO support - 61 playing DVD - 39 plug and play, support for : 3 position, mounting : 28, 38, 58 power cable - 19 connecting cable : 32 connector, PX-740A : 11, 59 PoweRec : 48

Index precautions - 6 primary IDE port - 15 PX-740A achieving best performance - 22, cable connections + 32 configuration examples - 22 connectors and jumpers, rear- panel + 10 contents of box : 11 controls, front-panel + 9 determining IDE configuration for 15 dimensions - 3, 60 host interface - 61 inquiry string - 61 installation - 9, 14, 24, 25 installation examples - 22 installation, cable select - 26 interface - 2, 5, 49 minimum computer - 49 minimum configuration + 49 mode jumper + 19 mounting : 28 operating system - 5, 49 optional cable connections - 28 power requirements - 59 quickstart installation + 13 rear-panel connectors + 10, 59, selecting IDE configuration - 22 system requirements + 49 weight - 60

questions, frequently asked - 47 quickstart installation, PX-740A -

safety standards - 62 screws, mounting : 33 secondary IDE port : 15 security sticker - 12 selecting an IDE configuration + 22 serial number, recording - 28 shipping your drive - 12, 65, 66 PX-740A Installation and Users Manual 73

Index shock specification + 58 T slave - 15, 22, 60 cable select - 18 technical support + 63, 64 setting drive as - 19 temperature setting in BIOS - 44 specification + 58 setting mode jumper - 20 Storage + 58 software + 6 TLA code - 28 CD-R/RW -6 transfer rate