Dell 8400 w/ Philips DVD8601 combo drive

XP SP2 installed

 

System is three months old, purchased new from Dell w/ above combo drive installed. From the beginning I've had problems starting Securom protected games from this combo drive (drive spins but game doesn't start, and eventually the authentication process times out, displaying a short error message). Star Wars:KOTOR was first, then TRON 2.0, as I recall. Now I'm having problems with X2:The Threat, which refuses to start after a successful install. All programs were purchased retail at the local mall, and are authentic and legal. I uninstalled all DVD software weeks ago, and have tried every trick I've come across on this forum, including uninstalling the drive and rebooting. I've not tried to burn a DVD yet. I've had problems burning CD-RW, but CD-R burn fine.

 

Help, please.

 

I've otherwise been pleased with Dell products, and am a repeat customer (2nd Dell). I also recommend Dell to anyone asking, and am personally responsible for influencing the purchase of 3 additional Dell systems by family and friends within the last 2 years. I'm sure Dell values my business, and am looking forward to the swift resolution of this problem.