two dumb (?) question about dvd burners?

Question

i have a compaq computer and somebody told me that comaqs don't let you add anything, so CAN i even add a dvd burner? if not internally, then EXTERNALLY?

and here is my other question. i can't currently play dvds on my computer, though i can play movies on cdrs... so i'm wondering if the dvd burner would also function as a dvd player? or do some do this if not all? any special lingo i should look for?

thanks!

Answer 1

You can add any hardware you want with any computer....trust me......ive done hundreds.....dont listen to that crap.

If you install a dvd burner or reader.....it can act as a dvd player with the right software......my favorite is PowerDVD

Answer 2

If your computer is relatively new (as in it has a decently new operating system like Windows XP) you shouldn't have any problem installing a DVD player.

The person who told you compaq's don't let you add anything was merely expressing a personal bias. Compaq's, generally speaking, are hated by a bunch of people. They can be undependable at times and aren't good for most high end use. Upgrading, however, shouldn't be a problem.

DVD burning is a very standard thing. Most computers can use a dvd burner (internally or externally).

Additionally any DVD burner can act as a DVD reader. So if you install a burner you will also be able to watch DVD's!

Here is one typical question about DVD's.

Q: When I buy blank dvd's to burn onto I see a lot of different types. DVD+R's, DVD-R's, DVD+RW's...what is the difference?

A: +R and -R for use today are exactly the same, There is no meaningful difference anymore. +RW's will allow you to burn to the same DVD more than once. Normal dvd's do not allow you to do that.

Answer 3

you should be able to add a dvd-burner/player if there is room in the computer for it. you could always go external (usb/firewire) and have full funtionality of an interal one. Yes, you would be able to play dvd movies on a dvd-burner. I expect you cannot do this currently because you only have a cd drive. you need to have a dvd-rom or dvd-burner to play dvds on your computer directly from the dvd disc. if you're computer if fairly new (i.e. using win xp) you should be able to use any dvd drive (xp compatible.)

Answer 4

Yes, you can add either an internal or external DVD burner... assuming your computer is recent enough that it can handle the data rate required. And yes, any dvd burner can also play dvd movies.