Being an analog guy in a digital world, I don't know much about electronics. The cd burner in our computer is not working. I was told it's probably fried as it worked the day before it quit and we didn't do maintenance etc. on it after I used it. It was suggested that I buy a USB external cd burner rather having a new one installed in the computer.
First - does this sound like a good idea?
Second - If it is a good idea, any suggestions of one to consider?

I don't need a real hot one as I typically burn just one or two cds at a time so I don't need a high production one.

Thanks for any suggestions.

Way cheaper to just buy a new CD burner and change out the old one. I'm in the same boat as you as to do this, but when I changed mine out, it was 4 screws and 2 wires...done. Easier than changing line on a reel. If you need any help to do this, PM me and I will walk you thru it. Just as simple as taking one side of your tower case off then change out the burner. Good Luck

Sounds like it is time for an UPGRADE. New CD burners are as low as $30 and will be faster than your old one. If your computer will suport it buy a SATA drive. SATA refers to the interface between your computer motherboard and the DVD. As Laterun said they are real easy to change out.
If you can't figure it out just find one of the neighbor kids and have him or her do it.

http://www.newegg.com/Product/ProductList.aspx?Submit=ENE&N=2010100005%2050001336%201036506653&bop=And&Order=RATING

Any of the Lite-ON DVD burners will be fine. Make sure you stick with whatever internal interface your old/broken drive had. It's either SATA or the older IDE.

Once you look inside you might find it's not broken. Could be a loose connection or card if it's connected to one. As far as cards go I've had them "quit" before, pulled them out and rubbed a pencil eraser on the connectors and it worked again. Be sure to statically discharge yourself on the metal case before touching anything.

First things first.
ALWAYS disconnect power to your PC before opening it.

Oh yea - the power will be off. I have a static strap from HP in Lake Stevens.
Thanks for the information. I appreciate your response. I have an HP so I'll see what's available for that brand.