Firstly, both computers must be on the same network, and secondly you cannot use Remote Disc to access copy-protected DVDs. If you’re going to use a Mac or Windows computer as a stand-in disc drive, then there’s a few restrictions you need to be aware of. You can also use Remote Disc to access a CD or DVD that’s inserted into a Windows computer, by installing the DVD or CD Sharing Program to your Windows PC.

If you have access to a second Mac that does have a built-in optical drive, then it is possible to insert a DVD or CD into this Mac, and then access the disc on the Mac that doesn’t have the built-in drive, using a feature known as Remote Disc. If you find yourself copying lots of large media files to your hard drive – such as whole TV series or full-length movies – then you may want to invest in a USB drive or SD card where you can store these files externally, rather than cluttering up your hard drive. However, before ripping any content you should always check the copyright information and, if required, the laws regarding ripping copy-protected content in your current location. One solution is to use the SuperDrive to rip this content to your hard drive, using a tool such as HandBrake. Once you’ve attached your external drive to your Mac, you can use it in exactly the same way as a built-in optical drive: simply insert the DVD or CD into the SuperDrive, and the relevant media-playing app should launch automatically.Īn external SuperDrive is a quick and easy way of playing physical discs on your Mac, but if you regularly use your Mac in more than one location, then you may not be too keen on carrying an external drive around with you. Just because your Mac doesn’t have a built-in SuperDrive doesn’t mean you can’t add one.īoth the Apple USB SuperDrive and MacBook Air SuperDrive are compatible with all Macs made after 2008, but there’s also a wide range of non-Apple CD and DVD drives out there that are typically much cheaper, and will work with most MacBooks (just make sure you check the drive’s exact specifications before making a purchase).

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