Sorry for the slow response, I've been busy with work and other things.

I'm just going to live with the drive as it is. The external DVD works fine for ripping and I use the set-top box for viewing. The Asus drive works great for software installation and gaming, so I'll quit my bitchin' and work with the system I've got.

Thanks for trying so hard NooNoo & slgrieb, hope I didn't waste too much of your time.