(?) on using external dvd cd rom

  • Thread starter Thread starter slee95
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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around connecting an external CD/DVD drive, specifically a Dell model with a unique D Bay connection, to a computer. Participants explore the nature of the connection, potential adapters, and alternative methods for interfacing the drive.

Discussion Character

  • Technical explanation, Debate/contested, Exploratory

Main Points Raised

  • One participant describes the external drive's connection as resembling a double USB end, indicating uncertainty about how to connect it to a computer.
  • Another participant clarifies that one of the USBs is for power and the other for data, suggesting that both need to be plugged into the computer.
  • A participant points out that the connection is a D Bay connection used by Dell for external drives, noting that without a compatible Dell laptop or an adapter, the drive may not be usable.
  • One participant expresses appreciation for learning about the D Bay connection, indicating a willingness to understand the technical details.
  • Another participant shares a pinout diagram for the D Bay connection, suggesting a DIY approach with soldering.
  • A follow-up question is raised about the feasibility of replacing the D Bay end with a regular USB end, which is met with a caution that direct replacement is not possible due to additional control lines.
  • It is proposed that the optical drive could potentially be removed from its casing and fitted into a standard USB external case, with the pinout diagram aiding in identifying the necessary connections.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express differing views on the feasibility of connecting the drive directly to a computer and whether an adapter exists. The discussion remains unresolved regarding the best method to utilize the drive without a compatible laptop.

Contextual Notes

There are limitations regarding the availability of adapters and the specific technical requirements of the D Bay connection. The discussion also highlights the need for further exploration of the drive's internal components and connections.

slee95
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Got this external cd dvd drive made by dell the model is No. Pd01s.
I would like to know how to hook it up because the end is not a regular usb end it lloks more like a double usb end.
 
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One of the usbs provides power and the other is for data, so you just plug both of them into the computer.
 
It appears that connection is called a D Bay connection and it was used by Dell as a connection for external drives for their Laptops.

So unless you have a Dell laptop with that connection or you can find an adapter (I tried but couldn't find one on google) you're out of luck.
 
See i learn this every day and its a first to learn what a D Bay connection is thanks for helping me :)
 
The pinouts for d-bay are here.

http://www.fangyigang.com/blog/attachments/200903/7824247022.png

Go go soldering iron.
 
rorix_bw said:
The pinouts for d-bay are here.

http://www.fangyigang.com/blog/attachments/200903/7824247022.png

Go go soldering iron.
can i take that end off and pout on a regular usb end?
 
slee95 said:
can i take that end off and pout on a regular usb end?

Not directly, as it has two SMB lines for drive control. I'd need to look up how those worked.

However, it's almost certainly a standard optical drive with a custom controller circuit (interface), so you *should* be able to take the drive itself out of its casing, and fit it into a regular USB external case with a regular interface. The pinout diagram will enable you to identify which are the USBs on the drive end, by tracing them backwards.
 

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