Since I haven't gotten any replies yet I thought I might relax the restrictions on my problem.

While I would prefer an internal DVD writer I could live with an external one, though it would be nice to know the pros and cons for each. Also, whatever I need to do to my Knoppix/Debian install I'll do (as long as it doesn't mean a reinstall) as long as someone can explain what likely needs to be done.

If anyone is pretty sure that I can just install a drive and have it Just Work (TM) because my system likely already has everything it needs working, I'd appreciate knowing.

Thanks.