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Plextor PX-712 User Manual

Plextor PX-712
136 pages
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DVD±R/RW, CD-R/RW DRIVE
INSTALLATION AND USERS MANUAL
APRIL 2004
Model PX-712A Internal ATAPI Drive
Model PX-712SA Internal SATA Drive

Table of Contents

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Plextor PX-712 Specifications

General IconGeneral
TypeDVD±RW
Form Factor5.25"
DVD Read Speed12x
CD Read Speed48x
DVD Write Speed12x
CD Write Speed48x
DVD Rewrite Speed4x
CD Rewrite Speed24x
Buffer Size2 MB
DVD±R DL Write Speed4x
DVD-RAM Write Speed5x
InterfaceIDE
Supported FormatsDVD+R, DVD+RW, DVD-R, DVD-RW, CD-R, CD-RW, DVD-RAM

Summary

Getting Started

About this Manual

Provides guidance on how to use the manual for installation, operation, and troubleshooting.

Meet Your PX-712

Describes the PX-712 drive and its capabilities for writing, rewriting, and reading.

What the PX-712 Does

Details the specific functions and performance capabilities for DVD and CD media.

Features of the PX-712

Highlights key features such as interfaces, transfer speeds, PoweRec, VariRec, and Silent Mode.

Minimum Configuration

Lists the required computer hardware and operating system for installing and using the PX-712 drive.

PX-712 Capabilities

Explains various tasks that can be performed with the PX-712 drive, including recording and archiving.

About Software

Discusses the need for mastering software and introduces Plextor's PlexTools Professional.

Precautions

Outlines essential care and handling guidelines to prevent damage to the drive.

Where to Go From Here

Directs users to the appropriate chapters for installing the PX-712A or PX-712SA drive.

Installing the PX-712A Internal ATAPI Drive

PX-712A Drive Features and Controls

Details the front and rear panel components and indicators of the PX-712A drive.

Save Your Box!

Advises users to retain the original packaging for potential future shipping needs.

Mount the PX-712A Drive

Covers recording the serial number and mounting the drive within the computer bay.

PX-712A QuickStart Installation

Offers a quick guide for experienced users to install the PX-712A drive.

Open the Computer and Prepare for Installation

Guides users on how to open the computer case and prepare for the drive installation process.

Determine Your Existing IDE Configuration

Explains how to identify the current IDE setup to ensure proper connection of the PX-712A drive.

Set the Drive’s Mode Jumper

Instructs on setting the mode jumper (Master, Slave, Cable Select) for the PX-712A drive.

Changing the Mode Jumper on Your PX-712A Drive

Details the procedure for changing the mode jumper settings on the drive.

Select an IDE Configuration

Provides guidance on selecting the correct IDE configuration for optimal performance with the PX-712A.

About Cable Select

Explains the Cable Select configuration and its requirements for the PX-712A drive.

Identifying Whether Your System Uses Cable Select

Helps users determine if their system supports or uses the Cable Select configuration.

Locating the Master Position on a Cable Select Cable

Describes how master/slave positions are determined on a Cable Select cable.

Set the DMA Jumper

Instructs on setting the DMA jumper for optimal performance or compatibility.

Mount the PX-712A Drive

Details the steps for physically mounting the drive, including cable connections.

IDE Ribbon Cable Requirements

Informs users about the IDE ribbon cable and its requirements.

Power Cable Requirements

Explains how to ensure proper power connection for the drive.

PX-712A Drive Mounting Procedure

Details the steps for physically mounting the drive, including opening the computer and bay.

Installing the PX-712SA Internal SATA Drive

PX-712SA Drive Features and Controls

Details the front and rear panel components and indicators of the PX-712SA drive.

PX-712SA Box Contents

Lists the items typically included in the PX-712SA drive package.

Save Your Box!

Advises users to retain the original packaging for potential future shipping needs.

Mount the PX-712SA Drive

Covers recording the serial number and mounting the drive within the computer bay.

Record the Serial Number

Instructs users to record the drive's serial and TLA numbers for future reference.

Mount the Drive in the Computer

Provides guidance on selecting a drive bay and making necessary cable connections.

PX-712SA Drive Mounting Procedure

Details the steps for physically mounting the drive, including opening the computer and bay.

Using Your PX-712

What Media to Use

Explains the types of DVD and CD media supported by the PX-712 drive.

Tray Loading and Operation

Describes how to load and unload discs using the drive's tray.

Handling DVD and CD Media

Provides instructions for handling discs carefully to prevent errors during recording.

Cleaning Discs

Details the correct method for cleaning discs to ensure proper read/write performance.

Mounting Position

Specifies that the PX-712 drive can be operated horizontally or vertically.

Playing DVDs

Explains how to play DVD-Video discs and discusses region code settings.

Writing to DVD Media

Discusses the need for special software to write to DVD+R/RW and DVD-R/RW discs.

Specifying +R/RW or -R/RW

Notes that media type selection is automatic based on inserted disc.

Writing to CD-R and CD-RW Media

Explains how to use software to write data, audio, or video to CD-R/RW media.

Using the LED Indicator

Explains the meaning of the front-panel LED colors and blinking patterns.

Switching to SpeedRead for Video Playback

Describes how to enable SpeedRead for faster DVD-Video playback with CSS.

Advanced Features and PlexTools Professional

Loading PlexTools Professional Software

Provides instructions for installing the PlexTools Professional software from the Plextor CD.

Using Silent Mode

Explains how to use Silent Mode to reduce drive noise during operation.

Turning On Silent Mode

Details steps within PlexTools Professional to enable and configure Silent Mode.

Important Facts about Silent Mode

Provides key information and considerations regarding the operation of Silent Mode.

Using SecuRec

Describes the SecuRec function for writing password-protected data onto CD-R discs.

Password-Protecting a Disc with SecuRec

Guides users on how to apply password protection to a CD-R disc using SecuRec.

Reading a Password-Protected Disc

Explains the process for reading discs protected with the SecuRec feature.

Important Facts about SecuRec

Covers important details and limitations of the SecuRec functionality.

Using VariRec

Introduces VariRec technology for adjusting laser power during recording.

How the Default VariRec Setting Is Determined

Explains the factory process for determining the default VariRec setting.

Changing the VariRec Setting

Details how to adjust VariRec settings using PlexTools Professional for optimal recording.

Using GigaRec

Explains GigaRec feature for increasing CD-R disc capacity beyond its standard limit.

Burning a Disc with GigaRec

Provides steps to burn a GigaRec disc using PlexTools Professional.

How GigaRec Works

Explains the underlying mechanism of GigaRec for extending disc capacity.

Important Facts about GigaRec

Covers essential details and limitations regarding GigaRec functionality.

Testing Your CDs and DVDs

Introduces the use of PlexTools Professional for measuring drive and media characteristics.

Measuring Read Transfer Rate

Guides users on testing the data transfer rate when reading from a disc.

Measuring Write Transfer Rate

Explains how to test the data transfer rate when writing to a disc.

Measuring Q-Check C1/C2/CU Errors

Details how to measure C1, C2, and CU errors on CDs using PlexTools Professional.

Measuring Tracking and Focus Error

Describes how to measure mechanical characteristics like focus and tracking error.

Making Q-Check Jitter/Beta Measurements

Explains how to measure jitter and beta values for disc quality assessment.

Measuring Q-Check PI/PO Errors

Details how to measure PI/PO errors for DVD quality assessment.

Advantages of Buffer Underrun Proof Technology

Explains the benefits of Buffer Underrun Proof Technology for uninterrupted writing.

Maintenance and Troubleshooting

Cleaning the PX-712 Drive

Provides instructions for cleaning the drive's laser lens and precautions against damage.

Upgrading Firmware

Guides users on how to obtain and install the latest firmware for the drive.

Emergency Eject

Describes the procedure for manually ejecting a disc when automatic methods fail.

Troubleshooting

Offers general advice for solving problems encountered during or after installation.

Make Sure the Drive Is Recognized

Helps users verify if the PX-712 drive is properly detected by the operating system.

PX-712A Self-Test Diagnostics

Explains how to use the drive's built-in diagnostics to troubleshoot issues.

Frequently Asked Questions

DVD Format Comparison

Compares DVD+R/RW and DVD-R/RW formats, stating they are different standards.

Recommended Media Definition

Defines recommended media as tested and approved by Plextor for optimal performance.

Appendix A: PX-712 Specifications

Specifications for All PX-712 Drives

Lists general specifications for all PX-712 drives, including front panel features and data buffer.

Supported Media

Details the types of DVD and CD media that the PX-712 drive supports.

Recommended Media

Lists specific brands and types of media recommended for optimal performance with the PX-712 drive.

Performance Specifications

Provides detailed read and write speed specifications for various media types.

PX-712A Internal ATAPI Drive Specifications

Lists minimum system requirements and rear panel specifications for the PX-712A.

PX-712SA Internal SATA Drive Specifications

Lists minimum system requirements and rear panel specifications for the PX-712SA.

Appendix B: Technical Support

How to Contact Plextor Technical Support

Provides multiple methods for contacting Plextor's technical support team.

Information Needed for Support

Lists essential information to gather before contacting technical support.

Returns Process

Details the procedure for returning a drive, including obtaining an RMA number.

Contacting Plextor’s RMA Department

Provides contact details for Plextor's RMA department for return authorization.

Packing Your Drive

Offers advice on securely packing the drive for shipment, preferably in original packaging.

Shipping Your Drive to Plextor

Instructs on shipping procedures, emphasizing the need for an RMA number and postage prepaid.

Appendix C: Warranty

Warranty Terms

Outlines the one-year limited warranty against defects in material and workmanship.

Warranty Exclusions

Specifies conditions under which the warranty is void, such as misuse or unauthorized alteration.

Liability Limitations

States Plextor's limitations regarding direct, special, or consequential damages.

Obtaining Warranty Service

Guides users on how to contact Plextor for warranty service and diagnosis.

Warranty Outside U.S. or Canada

Clarifies that warranty and RMA policies are limited to the US and Canada.

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