The streamer accessories category covers optical disc drives (DVD-RW, DVD-ROM), data archiving equipment and video streaming accessories. Most products come from DELL, LENOVO, ASUS and IBM.
It suits anyone who needs to read or burn discs, make backup copies, or stream video from a games console or camera.
How to choose streamer accessories
Product type. Work out first what you are looking for, because the name covers several areas. A tape drive (streamer) is for archiving data, an optical drive reads and writes discs, and Elgato accessories are used for video streaming.
Intended use and fitting. Our range includes drives for desktop computers, for laptops and some that suit both. Laptop optical drives are usually slimmer than desktop ones, so the two types are not interchangeable. Some drives are internal and others external.
Interface. Our range includes USB 2.0, Serial ATA, USB Type-C and USB 3.0 connections. Serial ATA is used for internal drives, while USB lets you connect a drive without opening the computer case. USB Type-C helps with ultrabooks, which often have only that type of port.
Disc format. A DVD-ROM drive only reads discs, whereas DVD-RW and DVD Super Multi drives also burn them. DVD Super Multi DL additionally supports dual-layer discs, which hold more data. If you only need to open discs, a basic model is enough.
Archiving equipment. When choosing a tape drive, check which generation of cartridges it supports and how it connects to the server or computer. Cartridges from different generations are not always compatible, so match the drive to the cartridges you already own.
Brands we carry
- DELL, LENOVO, HP: make business desktops and laptops, so their optical drives suit replacing a faulty part from the same manufacturer.
- ASUS: known for internal and external DVD writers, including models that connect over USB.
- LG: one of the longest-established makers of optical disc drives, so its models are found in many computers.
- IBM, Quantum, Tandberg: known for tape drives and tape libraries used for server data archiving.
- Elgato: known for capture cards and Stream Deck controllers used by game streamers.
Also in our range: HP Enterprise and Fujitsu.
Frequently asked questions
What is a streamer for a computer?
A streamer is usually a tape drive that writes data to magnetic tape cartridges. It is used for backups and long-term archiving, especially in businesses. The word is sometimes confused with video streaming equipment, so make clear which one you need when searching.
What is the difference between DVD-RW and DVD-ROM?
A DVD-RW drive both reads and burns discs, while a DVD-ROM drive only reads them. If you need to create or rewrite a disc, choose DVD-RW or DVD Super Multi. For simply playing films or installing software, DVD-ROM is enough.
Can an external USB drive be used on a laptop without a disc drive?
Yes, an external optical drive connects over USB and works without opening the laptop. Choose one whose connector matches your laptop: USB Type-C or standard USB. It usually draws power through the same connection.
What do I need to stream games?
To stream from a games console you usually need a capture card, such as those made by Elgato, and a computer running streaming software. If you play on the same PC you are streaming from, a capture card is not needed, only streaming software. A microphone and a stable internet connection are also worth having.
