Convert external DVD writer to Internal

[rp001]

Guys,
I have a Samsung se-s184m external usb dvd writer. I want to convert it into an internal drive.
I tried googling but did not come across any one who has done it.
Is it as simple as opening the enclosure and using the drive as a ATAPI drive?
Anyone who has this drive, how do you open the case/enclosure. I dont see any screws anywhere..
Please Help..

 

[brblx]

case might be glued.

it's probably a normal drive inside, but i wouldn't be surprised if there are bits missing or if everything is soldered. they're not going to build it like a universal enclosure.

 

[Soundmanred]

I have a Lite-On external DVD+/-R drive, and it just unscrews and the drive is unplugged from the ATA and power connectors. I've replaced the drive a few times due to the amount of discs I burn and used a variety of optical drives and hooked up a small hard drive to it as well.

 

[rp001]

You might be right, it seems like it is glued.. I am afraid if I try to use force i might render it unuseable.
This external drive works great, i just want to reduce the clutter and get everything inside the box that I am building. Currently I have a dvd writer, external hard drive, card reader all sitting on top of the PC, just a mess with the wires and the power connectors all over the place!
huh.. i guess I will have to live with it.

 

[Gunbuster]

I doubt it is glued. You are missing a screw under a rubber foot or sticker. Or it snaps together and you just need to pry it the right way.

 

[rp001]

Well, I removed one of the rubber shoes expecting something under it but nothing. I am going to give it another try tonight and see if I get any success.

Thanks for your inputs.

 

[alyarb]

In my experience, name brand external drives, whether they are optical or hard disks, contain perfectly usable PATA drives with cheap USB bridges built into the enclosure. If you can tear the case apart, with or without tools, there will be a good drive waiting for you inside.

 

[JackMDS]

Originally posted by: rp001
. I am afraid if I try to use force i might render it unuseable.

Fear (anxiety) reduces life expectancy.

A decent Internal Drive is about $20.

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