Philips to BenQ

[mentiroso]

Ok, I have a Philips DVD+RW DVD8601 that came with my dell. Been having some problems with it and you guys have helped so far so I thought I would ask another question. Some other forums have suggested changing the firmware from the Philips to a BenQ1600 firmware. What would this do and why is it recommended? I am considering doing it if it makes the drive better but I would like to know HOW it makes the drive better. I already have the instructions and files I would just like a little more info.

Thanks!!

[mentiroso]

Okay, I made a mistake. The firmware is to upgrade it to a BENQ1620, not 1600. Anyone know the advantages of this over the normal Philips firmware?

[midnightsun]

Assuming it's the same drive, I would say that Benq has a larger base of unofficial firmware compilers (see cdfreaks for reference) so you'll be more likely to fix any bugs the original one should have.
(The firmware dictates the writing strategies, so better firmware=better burns)

Anyway, cdfreaks is the place where you can find all the info you need, you should check it out first
(if the suggestion you were given came from cdfreaks then I would seriously follow their advice)

[Heff]

This thread tells how, 6th post down.

http://club.cdfreaks.com/showthread.php?t=110931