For the SDRW-08D1S-U's software bundle, ASUS has turned to CyberLink. The CD that comes with the drive contains a stripped down version of the CyberLink DVD Suite which includes a single application: Power2Go 6 LE.
CyberLink Power2Go 6 LE - Power2Go is the main disc burning program included with the SDRW-08D1S-U. With this software, users can create their own CD's and DVD's, copy and erase discs and rip audio CD's to WMA or WAV files. Power2Go also offers enhanced security features, allowing you to password protect and encrypt the files on your discs.
Unfortunately, the SDRW-08D1S-U does not come with PowerDVD or any other DVD playback software. If you want to play DVD movies on your notebook or netbook, you will need to go out and buy your own playback software.
While small in size, ASUS's external slim DVD writer isn't short on features. The SDRW-08D1S-U supports most CD and DVD formats and offers some of the fastest writing speeds available on a portable unit. The drive is capable of 8x DVD±R, 8x DVD+RW, 6x DVD-RW, 6x DVD±R DL and 5x DVD-RAM writing speeds and a maximum DVD read speed of 8x. The SDRW-08D1S-U also includes features like a 2MB buffer and a USB 2.0 interface that provides power for the drive. Unfortunately, it lacks bitsetting support for single layer DVD+R and DVD+RW media and comes with a less than impressive software bundle. Even then, the SDRW-08D1S-U scores a solid 8 out of 10 for its features.
