Samsung DVD Burner (SATA) - $13.73 shipped.

I know we get our red sleds cheaper, but for a new hobbyists who wants the DIY pride of doing all steps himself, this is a great price for a good DVD burner. Or, if you happen to need a DVD burner, this is the best price I've seen in a while. Hope it helps.

Newegg.com - SAMSUNG 22X DVD Burner 22X DVD+R 8X DVD+RW 8X DVD+R DL 22X DVD-R 6X DVD-RW 16X DVD-ROM 48X CD-R 24X CD-RW 48X CD-ROM SATA Model SH-222BB/BEBE - CD / DVD Burners

coupon: APRODD15 = $14.99 - 15% = 12.74 + $0.99

Or if you have shoprunner, I believe it's free shipping, so $12.74

These new ones have a flat red diode most of the time, did anyone open it for checking it out?

sinner said:

These new ones have a flat red diode most of the time, did anyone open it for checking it out?

Click to expand...

No I did not, thanks for pointing it out, I didn't think too much of it. You're right though, they may not be the best model for experimenting with.

As a side note, I remember back when I opened my old working Sony DVD Burner several years ago to extract the diode... I saw an open can diode, and didn't know what it was. I assumed it wasn't it, or was broken, and I threw it in the trash, only to find out weeks later that it was indeed the right laser. Live and learn.

Haha, true thaat!!
I guess u have to do some research , The newer models have a 3.8mm red diode too maybe if you get lucky but in my little experience with opening up latest dvd burners i havent found much luck.. The 2007-2008 models are 20x which are perfect for a laser, 2005-2006 are 16x which are ~200mW still good for making a red laser..
2009~onwards its just luck if u can find a 5.6mm package high power or open can.. Why not just buy a LPC-826 for $10

Because you get a whole drive with motors and stuff, and more pride if you're new and want to do the whole process yourself. I certainly don't need any more diodes, I was just posting for others if they were interested. I guess now it's only useful to buy if you need a new DVD burner.