CD-RW

CD-RW

by Joe50 Dec 5, 2003 12:57AM PST

Windows XP Pro
Ram: 256 Mb
Yesterday my CD-RW stop been able to WRITE. I can still READ with it, no more able to COPY. What is the best way to start verifying why this component no longer works properly.
Thanks.

Discussion is locked

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Re:CD-RW

by r. proffitt Forum moderator Dec 5, 2003 1:46AM PST

"What is the best way to start verifying why this component no longer works properly."

The BEST way is to change the drive out. This fixes it quickly and costs the least amount of tech time in the shop that I suggest it first.

You can of course try a CD Lens cleaner, update the drives firmware, use System Restore, reload the OS and what CD recording software you have, but you asked for best...

Bob

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Re:Re:CD-RW

by Joe50 Dec 5, 2003 1:54AM PST

For recording I am using the software that comes with Windows XP Pro.

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Oops, you asked "why?" Here's a page about XP CDRW usage.

by r. proffitt Forum moderator Dec 5, 2003 3:00AM PST

The "why?" question is sadly not going to be accepted by many. The CDRW drives in bulk run about 10 dollars to about 20... At this price point, no great pains are taken to repair such and if it lasts past the warranty then the makers feel they have done well. Replacement costs are found from 9.99USD to about 39USD for the internal units by various names.

To further this issue of too low-cost to repair is this 79USD DVD+/-R/W drive I just picked up this week. The prices have fallen to a point where no one can do any deep investigation of a failure, but you find the cheap fix and move on. For those who really want an answer to the failure, it's possible to find some place to dive into the unit, but costs can far exceed the drive replacement cost. You have to make your choice here.

FURTHER READING ABOUT Windows XP native CDRW support is at http://www.aumha.org/win5/a/xpcd.htm

Bob

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79USD?

by Tom Aikman Dec 5, 2003 8:00AM PST

Where?
Thanks!

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Re:79USD?

by r. proffitt Forum moderator Dec 5, 2003 8:08AM PST

OfficeMax. Be aware that it's 50 bucks more if you mess up on the rebate...

Bob

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Re:CD-RW

by David Chan Dec 5, 2003 3:51AM PST

I would simply swap the drive to another PC and test it.
If it still doesn't work change it for a new one.

It's close to Christmas so make that an item on your wish list.

BTW, you did not state how old it is.
if it's still under warranty contact the vendor.

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