Do I need to upgrade the firmware??

[squeeg22]

I just purchased a spindle of Verbatim 16X DVD-R's from Best Buy this week (using the deal found in the Hot Deal's forum) and cannot get them to burn over 2X. I used DVD Identifier to verify that they were 16X compatable and that they were manufactured by MCC (details below):

Verbatim 16X DVD-R
Media Code: MCC 03RG20
Write speeds:
4X
6X
8X
12X
16X

I'm currently using DVD Decrypter to burn the discs. The only other media I have tried to use are some Phillips 8X DVD-R's I had laying around. Those managed to be burned over 4X on average.

What would cause these DVD's to not be burned higher than 2X? Is it the firmware of the drive?

 

[live2game]

I wouldn't think so but it might be. Some DVD burners don't like certain media.

 

[squeeg22]

C'mon. I know a ton of people just jumped on the $750 off Dell Laptop deals within the last month or two. Is anyone else having this problem? I've searched for a firmware update, but no luck. I have read that some Sony drives are just rebadged Lite-On's. Is this true and if so, what is the comparable drive?

 

[Zepper]

Yes, if there is a firmware available you should update - just wait a few weeks after they come out to let others catch any arrows. Burner firmware updates include media compatibility tweaks as well as bug fixes so it is good to keep updated. Check CDFreaks.com for updated firmware on lots of drives. It's often hard to find such things for notebook drives. I recommend using a full-size external burner with notebook PCs - just use the internal drive for playback.

.bh.

 

[squeeg22]

Originally posted by: Zepper
Yes, if there is a firmware available you should update - just wait a few weeks after they come out to let others catch any arrows. Burner firmware updates include media compatibility tweaks as well as bug fixes so it is good to keep updated. Check CDFreaks.com for updated firmware on lots of drives. It's often hard to find such things for notebook drives. I recommend using a full-size external burner with notebook PCs - just use the internal drive for playback.

.bh.

Why is this recommended? Save wear and tear on the drive?

Also, I've checked CDFreaks.com for the firmware update, but the drive isn't listed. This is why I was hoping to find out if this is a rebadged Lite-On, so that I can use the corresponding firmware.