Pros: I did a lot of research on the item - comparing several web sites to get all the info possible. I noticied a lot of remarks about noise and "coasters". The item works well and as it should. It is not loud, it does not get hot. It sounds like any other disk related drive should - that is - you hear it - but it is not an unusual sound and is not loud. My only issue is with the Nero software. That's the reason I rate it a 4 instead of a 5. It was not particularly easy to install (you don't know when it is done, or what it is doing) and I am sure there are better applications to be had. For the price - the HP is a great buy.

Cons: Nero software - install process is not the greatest. If you don't mind a longer install and the hassell of not knowing what it's doing - and a whole lot of desktop icons being created - I suppose it's ok, that is - functional.

Overall Review: Buy the longer USB cable to go with this. The HP supplied cable is silly short (about 36 inches). Slow down and read! If you pay attention and take the install slowly I think you can most of the issues other people are claiming.