Some software will lock the tray. Check settings on your "Burning software, (Read/Write to CD/DVD), or anyother software that deals with Optical drives.

Thanks so much to Robin - I made sure to join the "Dell Community" just to thank you - my E drive was stuck midway through a burning session.  The paperclip trick came to my rescue - thanks again.   ML

Hi, And Thankyou, have fun 

You are a genious!!!  I have tried everything and this pin thing worked like a charm!  You are a true genious and I am not worthy!

This Paper Clip thing isn't wurkin' 4 me du u hav anythang else 4 me

nope

Hi zmoney6,

I would like to know if you have a laptop or a desktop.

I assume that you have tried to eject the optical drive through windows explorer. Have tried to eject the drive while being in the system BIOS? If not, follow the below mentioned steps:

1. Restart the system and tap F2 key at Dell logo.
2. System will enter the BIOS.
3. Try to Eject the optical drive.

If issue persists, the optical drive needs to be replaced. If the computer is under warranty, I would be glad to arrange a service on the computer.
Check warranty status: http://dell.to/zEE2Cm

Please provide system’s Service Tag and contact details so I may access your system records and check for further course of action. You could also click on Start Conversation to send a private message.

In case of expired warranty scenario, we would not be able to extend warranty entitled services.

If the warranty on the computer has expired, below link would help you in contacting expired warranty services (this is for US based customers):

http://dell.to/4LOBWi

Awaiting your response.

wow!! I have been fighting with my CD Drive for months and finally the paper clip method worked!!  you are awsome!!

Paper clip in hole will not open it.

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