DVD ROM thinks it's a CD ROM?

Question

I've had this DVD ROM for about a year and a half. Every time I put in a DVD it acts like it can't read it, no matter how new or pristine the disc is. It does, however, read CDs just fine. I don't understand how if the laser eye can read CDs why DVDs are such a problem. Sometime after 5-10 minutes of "working" the drive will read the DVD but sometimes it tries to read it and then just gives up. Is there something I can do other than replace it?

Answer 1

DVD side of the drive uses a diff laser and lens to the CD side, therefor the DVD system has failed, but the CD works fine.

I'm afraid unless a LENS CLEANER CD works to clean dirt of the lens it is time to replace drive.

Might be alomost as cheap to upgrade and stick a DVDRW in there now to let you burn discs too

Answer 2

I have the same problem with my DVD ROM and Windows XP. The only thing I have found to get around this problem is to open the DVD program I am using (Power DVD/Nero/Etc.) first and let it tell me there is not a disc in the drive, THEN put in the DVD. That way Windows is not trying to look for a CD. I'm sure there is something more "professional" that will actually fix the problem but this seems to work for me.

Answer 3

No. I dont think there is anything you can do other than replace the drive.

This happened to me as well. I believe the laser to read a DVD is more intense and when the drives age or go bad, that is the first feature to go.

With mine, I had the same issue, but after several years of constant usage.

Answer 4

Lol. Sounds like your DVD ROM has an identity crisis. The laser is probably not strong enough to read the DVD layer. You might have to buy a new DVD rom.

Answer 5

Replace it. For £20/$20 it's not worth spending any effort on trying to fix it.

You should have taken it back while it was under warranty if it's been broken for ages.

Answer 6

It might not be compatible. Check to see if it is by looking on the drive.

Answer 7

replace it, cheaper than one in crisis :o)