[ INDIVIDUAL COMPONENT // OPTICAL DRIVES ]
NEC ND-3540A
The ND-3540A is a half-height IDE writer whose DVD+R DL and DVD-R DL limits differ. Do not apply later-generation specifications, or treat its DVD-RAM read capability as a recording capability.
IDENTIFICATION: NEC ND-3540A · Internal 16× DVD±RW dual-layer writer, 2005 generation. Match the full model and revision marking to the cited archive before applying variant-specific specifications.
Model-specific specifications
| Catalog subcategory | DVD writers |
|---|---|
| Exact product identifier | NEC ND-3540A |
| Generation / product type | Internal 16× DVD±RW dual-layer writer, 2005 generation |
| DVD/CD media support | Writes DVD±R, DVD+R DL, DVD-R DL, DVD±RW, CD-R and CD-RW. Reads DVD-ROM, recordable DVD±R/RW and common CD-ROM/audio/data formats. The cited specification does not list DVD-RAM recording support. |
| Maximum read/write speeds | Write: DVD±R up to 16×; DVD+R DL up to 8×; DVD-R DL up to 4×; DVD+RW up to 8×; DVD-RW up to 6×; CD-R up to 48×; CD-RW up to 32×. Read: DVD-ROM up to 16×; CD-ROM up to 48×. |
| Interface and mechanics | Internal 5.25-inch half-height tray drive; IDE/ATAPI (PATA), with Master/Slave/Cable Select jumpers; Ultra DMA 33 / PIO mode 4 host modes. |
| Host compatibility | Needs an internal 5.25-inch bay, legacy PATA/ATAPI controller, compatible power and an OS-era recording application. Manual/driver support is tied to contemporary Windows PC hosts; adapter-based SATA/USB installations require independently compatible bridges and software. |
| Variant and use notes | Match the full ND-3540A model code and firmware. Do not infer DVD-RAM writing from DVD-RAM read support; DVD+R DL and DVD-R DL have separate speed ceilings. PATA jumper and media-specific firmware strategy matter. |
Compatibility and preservation
Advertised maximum rates are media- and firmware-dependent; they are not a guarantee for aged, damaged or unsupported discs. For archival work, retain the full drive model, firmware, media identifier, write strategy and software version with the image or master.
- Confirm the complete label and PATA jumper position before installing; do not infer capabilities from a related suffix or OEM rebrand.
- Use supported blank media and a compatible recorder application, then verify the completed disc by readback and checksum.
- Handle optical media by its edge or hub, store it in a cool, dry location, and preserve an unmodified original when possible.
Manufacturer and archive sources
- NEC ND-3540A — CDRInfo model reviewModel-specific dual-layer speeds, supported formats and PATA details.
- NEC ND-3540A manuals — ManualsLib archiveArchived model manual reference for installation and compatibility.
These references document the named model/family; they do not certify a particular used drive, firmware revision or blank-media batch. Confirm exact suffix and region/OEM variant on the hardware label.