External Enclosure

[Kingnog]

Is there any difference between a 30 dollar (from meritline) external 5.25" drive enclosure and a 80 dollar one? Besides the fact that the more expensive supports both USB2 and firewire?

[Cobra]

I wouldn't have thought there would be much difference in the function - an encosure is basically a glorified connector, isn't it? Where there may be a difference is in build quality. It may feel weak, plasticky and have some less-functional designs like the latches to hold it shut and so on.

I'd say give the $30 one a shot and see how it goes.

Cobra

[stiltman]

Yes there are some differences.
Make sure it supports UDMA 48bit for 250gb drives.
I would also make sure it has a quality chipset like VIA and or Oxford

[ofbarea]

Cheaper cases will have crappy fans that probably will die too soon or will sound like a blender. Still small fans are cheaper than difference in price of the cases.

[CoasterCreator]

well its true connections ( usb2/ firewire ) and the power of the fan. all make the difference , you want it to keep it as cool as possible. example I have a 250 HD in a usb2/ firewire case and it likes to freeze after extended use. . I have to shut it down sometimes to unfreeze

[Kingnog]

Well, I'm using this for a 4x dvd burner (4x is the max it can handle through a usb connection i hear, i lucked out ), so I dont think the fan will be a problem. And if it is, it takes max 20 mins to burn something, it wont be overheating..(or so I hope, lol). I guess I'm going with a 30 dollar one, then.

[Jester700]

4x was the top for CD burners through USB 1.1 (I think that's where you got your numbers), but I think USB2.0 can beat that with DVDs. It's about as fast as firewire, and I have no problems burning DVDs at 8x in my firewire case.

[rallynavvie]

Biggest concern is bridge chipsets. Some are better than others. Oxford is good, so is TI.

[Kingnog]

OK, thanks. I just ordered the 30 dollar one (which only came out to 25 including shipping, I dont know how that worked out...) and I'll update when I get it and have a chance to test it out