DVD-ROM Questions

[telstar1]

I've got a couple very basic questions about DVD-ROM drives.

1. What does a DVD Decoder card do?
2. Do I need one, or is just the DVD drive sufficient to playback DVDs?
3. My hard drive is an ATA-100 drive, but I've seen DVD drives as both ATA-33 and ATA-66. What should I choose or doesn't it matter much?
4. I'm considering buying the Lite-On LTD163. Any recommendations for or against this model?

Thanks,
Telstar

 

[LoneWolf1]

<< I've got a couple very basic questions about DVD-ROM drives.

1. What does a DVD Decoder card do?
2. Do I need one, or is just the DVD drive sufficient to playback DVDs?
3. My hard drive is an ATA-100 drive, but I've seen DVD drives as both ATA-33 and ATA-66. What should I choose or doesn't it matter much?
4. I'm considering buying the Lite-On LTD163. Any recommendations for or against this model?

Thanks,
Telstar >>

most of your questions should be answered by checking the AnandTech Faq's page. Specifically,
Do I want a hardware or software DVD decoder?,

Which software DVD decoder is the best? and

I want to play a DVD on my TV, what's the best way to do it?.
I can't comment on the Lite-On because I've never dealt with any of their drives, but IIRC, they are just rebagged pioneer's. I could be wrong on this though.

Hope this helps some.

 

[telstar1]

Thanks very much.
Your reply was very helpful.