Hey everyone,
Scott Henry here to answer a few questions I have been asked lately regarding the new Apple computer systems that no longer ship with an onboard CD/DVD Disc Drive. For years people have relied on burning discs to back up data, share files, or create media discs for entertainment. Some of our clients have been worried that without an optical disc drive they will no longer be able to use or have access to all the files they have saved to discs in the past.
Although the computer industry is quickly moving away from discs this does not mean that you will not be able to use your media. The simple solution to this problem is to purchase an external disc drive. At Mac Outpost we offer two different options, the official Apple SuperDrive and the LaCie Slim DVD Writer. Both of these devices simply plug and play right into your Mac via USB port. The Apple SuperDrive is only for use in Apple systems that DO NOT ship with an onboard disc drive. The LaCie Drive is cross compatible with any Mac or Windows PC and can also be used as an inexpensive alternative to repairing an internal disc drive that has malfunctioned.
The other important piece of information to point out is that these days we have many different ways to back up and store media. In fact most clients have found that they do not really have much of a need for a disc drive anymore. Files can be shared much quicker on a simple USB thumb drive by dragging and dropping files into the drive. The best way to actually back up files theses days is on an External Hard Drive. This allows users access to a far greater amount of space compared to the 4GB that can be saved to a DVD. It is also much faster to back up files as the HD does not have to go through the same burnings process a DVD needs. However many people still have important software discs that run through a computers disc drive.
I recommend assessing your personal use/needs of discs. As always feel free to call Mac Outpost if you have any questions about your options. We are always able to come up with the best solution to fit your personal needs.
Have a great day!
Scott Henry
Mac Outpost Hero
