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Features
The
Lite-On SOHW-832S is loaded with features. Let's start of with the most
important, the Dual Layer DVD+R9 technology.
The technology was developed by Philips and MKM
Mitsubishi Kagaku Media (MKM) with the intension to improve or expand the
optical data storage options available to consumers today.
The DVD+R9 media consists of dual recording
layers separated by a spacer and semi transparent metal reflector. The
second layer will virtually double the storage capacity from 4.7GB to 8.5GB,
giving you the ability to store much more data or backup and burn a DVD9 onto
just one disc. These first generation drives will be able to write to
these discs at a speed of 2.4X. One of the major challenges during
development was to maintain compatibility with the DVD-ROM standard to ensure
that the new dual-layer discs would be playable on standalone DVD players.
We'll be testing these discs on a variety of standalone players to see if
there are any issues or if they do indeed play well.
Lite-On drives feature their own exclusive
SMART-Burn technology which stands for "Smart Monitoring & Adapting Recording
Technology for Burning". What does this all mean? Well, it is a
feature that is actually similar to BURN-Proof. Its main features are:
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Buffer Under Run Protection
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Running Optimum Power Calibration
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Automatic Writing Strategy & Burning Parameters
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Automatically decreases the burning speed when
laser power over margin due to poor media quality or high temperatures.
SMART-X stands for "Smart Monitoring & Adjusting
Read-speed Technology for Extraction". This is also a Lite-On innovative
technology that was verified and improved over a long period of time before
going into mass production. It was basically designed to increase the
readability of both audio CD's and VCD's. Drive's that feature SMART-X will
rip audio or VCD data as fast as possible with the least amount of errors,
even when ripping from poor quality media.
VAS
VAS stands for "Vibration Absorber System" and
is a feature included on a majority of current Lite-On drives that is designed
to reduce vibration and noise during recording and reading.
 The Lite-On SOHW-832S is a
dual format writer capable at writing to a DVD+-R disc at 8X, provided you use
the appropriate high quality media. While there have been some press
releases on upcoming 12X drives, this is currently the fastest DVDR write
speed available. Plextor is the first to release a 12x burner, but you
should see additional manufacturers, including Lite-On release them starting
in June.
It's not just a fast DVD Burner though!
For those who have been using a second high speed CD writer along with your
DVD Burner, there may not be a need for both anymore. Unlike the
Optorite DD0203 we reviewed a while back, the Lite-On SOHW-832S has a maximum
CDR write/read speed of 40X. That's plenty fast and makes it an
excellent all-in-one burning solution. We'll be thoroughly testing its
writing capabilities in this review.
Installation
Installation is a no-brainer and WinXP quickly
identified the drive without any issues. No additional steps are
required as far as installation of the drive goes.
We will be using the latest build (6.3.1.10) of
Nero 6 Ultra Edition is this review. The drive is supported and Nero had
no issues recognizing the drive and its features properly, including its dual
layer support.
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