Fixing Computers

 Simple steps to troubleshoot CD/DVD drive.

• Will it boot from a recovery CD? If so then the drive is working and it is a Windows software problem (usually drivers).
• Reset the BIOS (Re-boot and tap the F2 Key, Press F9 (Default Settings), Press F10 (Save and Exit)
• Uninstall and replace the drivers using Device Manager under Administrator Privileges - right click on My Computer / Properties / Hardware / Device Manager - expand CD Rom/DVD line item. Right click on the items below and select uninstall drive on the pop-up menu. Re-boot the system and Plug and Play will automatically detect the CD Rom drive and re-install the drivers for you.
• Try a different media - some brands will just not work correctly with a given CD Rom drive. Watch out for compatibility problems with Maxell, Memorex and Macromedia CDs.
• Check for noises - ticking noise => check CD ensure that it is not cracked. Check to ensure that the CD is mounted correctly on the spindle. Ensure the drive has enough time to spin up.
• Access Light - is light on?
• Is the CD Clean?
• Check error messages in Event Viewer. Start / Settings / Control Panel / Administrative Tools / Computer Management (or Event Viewer)
• Check for software updates - check your manufacturer's web site for software updates and drive updates. Check for QSI firmware updates.
• For DVD - trying to write to DVD but it is READ ONLY?
• Perform Diagnostics Test. This methodology varies from manufacturer to manufacturer.
• Perform a Recovery or Operating System Repair preferably.
• Send in for service if all above fails.

To do troubleshooting on the optical drive using flowchart, please refer to the chart below. It is a detailed flowchart on CD or DVD playback taken from "Computer Repair with Diagnostic Flowcharts".