What's the difference between OEM and not?

[geocab]

I was thinking of buying the NEC 3540a and didn't know what the difference was between the OEM version and the non-OEM version.

Should I use this to replace my Pioneer 104, or the CD-Writer in my computer? What combination of devices have you guys found best?

This unit seems to have terrific reviews and I was wondering if you guys would recommend anything over this or not.

Thank you, I appreciate the help,
George

[SCDVD]

Another name for "OEM" drives is "bare drive". OEM drives are packed bulk in larger boxes. They are usually just wrapped in a plastic bag. These cost less than retail packed drives that come in a pretty box with some sort of software and a cable.

[edDV]

OEM is a business to business (B2B) transaction.

OEM products make it into the retail stream as overstocks, returns, rejects and "specials" etc.

OEM usually carries no consumer warranty or support. In theory you, the customer get the support from the OEM. Often the products lack software, drivers, manuals, 800 support numbers.

If you know what you are doing and can support the product yourself, OEM products can save you some money up front.

[geocab]

Thank you very much for that explanation.

[geocab]

Hi,


I went ahead a purchased an NEC 3540a OEM drive. My next question is, how do I get my Nero 5 Burning Rom to recognize it. I usually only use Nero to erase my re-writables anyway, but it'd be nice to know what I need to do. The software came with my Pioneer 104 drive that I replaced with the NEC.

Riplock only affects ripping from a DVD to a HDD, correct?

Thank you,
Geo

[edDV]

Hi,


I went ahead a purchased an NEC 3540a OEM drive. My next question is, how do I get my Nero 5 Burning Rom to recognize it. I usually only use Nero to erase my re-writables anyway, but it'd be nice to know what I need to do. The software came with my Pioneer 104 drive that I replaced with the NEC.

Riplock only affects ripping from a DVD to a HDD, correct?

Thank you,
Geo

You get all the driver updates from the Nero site but version 5 support ended years ago. If that doesn't work you upgrade to Nero 7.

You are beginning to see the false economy of an OEM package. Retail versions would include a new feature reduced Nero version (or other) with current drivers.