LG Electronics announced the release of a new optical drive that is intended for external operation and comes packed in a slim and easily portable form. The new external optical drive comes in two versions, the simpler GSA-E50N and the LightScribe capable GSA-E50L and it is specially created for use with laptops and notebooks.

The new LG manufactured Slim Portable Super Multi format capable DVD burner is entirely powered by the USB connection which doubles as the data transferring link, making it a very good choice for use while on the move as it does not need an external power source. The optical drive comes in a slim package and it is just 21.4mm wide and sports a total weight of 380 grams, while being available in two colors: white and black. The two DVD burners are certified to work with Microsoft's Windows Vista and they are able to write and read all three standard DVD formats like DVD+R/RW, DVD-R/RW and DVD-RAM, as well as reading and writing CDs and rewritable CDs. The external LG DVD burners are able to reach write speeds of up to 8X, which is a pretty nice thing considering that those units are designed as portable and slim units that are powered solely through the USB port, sharing the laptop's battery.

According to the news site theinquirer, the LG GSA-E50L DVD burner also packs the LightScribe technology which allows users to label their own discs as they please. "The growing trend amongst today's consumer is to have fashionably designed technology, particularly if it's to be used in public. Our aim with the Slim Portable Multi is to give people a stylish, state-of-the-art rewriter that they are proud to use in public", said LG product manager Suan Choi in the company's press release concerning the launch of the two DVD burners.