The Buffalo Technology MediaStation 8x Ultra-Slim Portable DVD Writer is an affordable, 8x external DVD/CD writer. It’s built especially for laptop users wanting to save money; it is a cheaper alternative to an already embedded internal player. It can write DVD discs at up to 8x and CD discs at up to 24x. And it connects by USB, from which it receives power—thus meaning it does not require an AC adapter or power outlet. In case the connected laptop is too underpowered, users can hookup a secondary USB Y-cable for additional energy. The unit retails in two formats: the black DVSM-PN58U2VB and white DVSM-PN58U2VW.