Get More Burn For the Buck

Duplication towers are typically built either as a PC-based system or using a specially built piece of hardware called a duplication controller (see "Duplication Decisions," center). This recipe will focus on the more flexible PC-based approach (go to TechBuilder.org for details on the latter). Here's what you'll need:

• Motherboard: I recommend Pentium III/400-MHz or better with at least 128 MB of RAM. Remember that the number of IDE devices you can add depends on the number of available IDE ports. (I recommend IDE devices rather than SCSI based on price, availability and ease of configuration.)

• Hard-disk drive: You'll need a 40-GB hard disk for copying CDs and a 120-GB drive for duplicating DVDs.

• IDE controllers: You'll need additional IDE controller cards to attach IDE burners. Each card supports two channels, which support one master device and one slave. For the best performance, use 80-wire IDE cables for all primary connections between the IDE controller and the DVD/CD burners or ROMs.

• Case: Choose a sturdy case with ample bays on the front. For four or more burners, choose a full tower for space.

• Power supply: A minimal system with a couple of burners will require at least 250 watts. Larger systems with additional fans need at least 300 watts or more.

• Monitor/keyboard/mouse: Standard equipment is adequate.

• CD/DVD ROM: This should be at least as fast as your target burner's speed to avoid buffer underrun on occasions where you might copy directly from CD/DVD- ROM to CD/DVD burners.

• CD/DVD burners: Whenever possible, use drives of the same make and model number to guarantee the same buffer sizes and buffering strategy.

• Application software: My pick is Nero 6 Reloaded. Like most commercial copy software, Nero creates a hard-disk image of the CD/DVD, then buffers the data while initiating the writing process.

• OS: Windows XP Home Edition requires no special features or networking. For optimal performance on the duplication software, configure Windows for the maximum size for PageFile under System Performance.

Assembling a duplication tower is similar to a standard desktop solution, but you'll need a plan regarding the locations of your additional IDE controller cards, burners and cabling before configuring and installing any drives. Make sure all cables are long enough and that they can be dressed to promote good airflow. Next, configure the motherboard, but install it in the case only after you've installed the processor, fan and memory. Install additional IDE controllers and cables to the CD/DVD burners and ROM.

Connect your peripherals, power up the system and do a BIOS setup. Create OS and data partitions on the hard disk, and your assembly is complete. Load the OS and application software onto your tower.

Make sure the case has all its covers on before prolonged testing of the burners.

Andy McDonough is a freelancer writer based in New Jersey.