Mobility and flexibility are important aspects of the eSAU208. The drive can be powered in three different ways. A standard power adaptor, bundled with the drive, can be used as a power source. Furthermore, the eSAU208 can be powered directly from a PC or notebook through a USB cable, which uses either one or two USB ports of the computer. A USB cable that is suitable for both options is also bundled with the drive.

Writing speeds of the eSAU208 are 8X for DVD±R and DVD+RW, 6X for DVD±R DL and DVD-RW, 5X for DVD-RAM and 24X for CD-R(W). Reading speeds are 8X for DVD-ROM and 24X for CD-ROM. The eSAU208 provides a “power saving mode” that can be activated in case users want to switch to lower power consumption. Writing and reading speeds will be reduced by 40-60%, depending on the media format, in order to save energy and / or to operate the drive smoothly on specific low powered notebooks.

The eSAU208 will be available in two stylish colors; one version will have fashionable black & white design, while the other version will have a classy burgundy look. Specifications of both versions are exactly the same and will include LightScribe direct disc labeling technology. This allows users to label their discs without any marker or paper labels. Just burn your data on the data-side of a LightScribe compatible disc, flip the disc over, and burn your laser etched label on the other side.

The eSAU208 will be available in Europe from September / October 2008.