I recently got a Panasonic DVD camcorder that records onto small 8 cm Mini DVDs. The camcorder works, but its wall-power adapter is unavailable, and it apparently needs steady mains power to finalize the discs. I'd like to use an external DVD drive with my computer so I can read the discs and copy the videos. What kind of drive should I look for, and are there any compatibility issues?
3 Answers
Avoid slot-loading drives because a small disc can get stuck or fail to center properly. Also keep in mind that if the camcorder never finalized the disc, the computer may not be able to read the video properly. In that case, you may still need a compatible power adapter for the camcorder to finalize it first.
Look for a standard tray-loading external DVD drive, not a slot-loading model. Most tray drives have a small circular indentation around the center spindle where an 8 cm Mini DVD can sit and snap into place. Connect the drive to your computer, place the disc in that recess, and close the tray normally.
Almost any inexpensive tray-style USB CD/DVD drive should work, including models such as the Dell DW316. Mini DVDs use the same center hole as full-size discs, so the drive’s spindle holds them in place. You don’t need a special Mini DVD drive as long as the tray has the smaller-disc recess.
That explains the wall-power issue: the camcorder can’t finalize the disc while running only from its battery, so the external drive is useful for reading finalized discs but may not replace the camcorder’s power adapter.