cdrw/dvd only works sometimes

You need to pull it out and reseat it.

how do you pull it out and reseat it?

http://support.dell.com/support/edocs/systems/ins8200/en/sm_en/hdd.htm#1084976

Thanks, that's super helpful!!!

Is that all I have to do? (pull out & reseat?) Do i have to clean anything in there?  Do you recommend I get a lens/drive cleaning something or other?

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@dretsai wrote:

Thanks, that's super helpful!!!

Is that all I have to do? (pull out & reseat?) Do i have to clean anything in there?  Do you recommend I get a lens/drive cleaning something or other?

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Just pull it and reseat it.

bummers, that didn't work.  I tried running the diagnostic CD on the CD drive (is it abnormal that it only tested its CDRW functions?), pulling it out and reseating it, uninstalled interactual player, reinstalled my videocard driver...nothing worked.

So, here's my problem: when I try to play a DVD burned with divx files, windows media player will randomly close, saying that the disc is damaged or dirty, but my roomate's computer has no problem playing it.  And when my roomate copies the file and sends it over to me, I can play it fine.  Clearly this is a hardware problem.  I've heard lots of people have been having problems with this drive, it's the Hitatchi 24x DVD-CDRW drive...

Any thoughts?  Do I need a new drive or is this salvageable??

I would say a new drive is needed. :smileysad:

argh phooey.  Well, thanks anyway for all your help!

I have a Dell Inspiron 5150. The drive works irratically, and it's not a software issue, as I have reformatted, re-installed XP pro, updated all firmware, and installed the latest Dell drivers. I also tried buying a different drive and using that. Doesn't work. What the heck should I do?