WINDOWS won't recognize my cd/dvd drive

Hi,

Try this - Control Panel - Device Manager - CD/DVD - double click the device - Driver's Tab - click
Update Drivers (this will likely do nothing) - then RIGHT CLICK the drive - UNINSTALL - REBOOT
this will refresh the default driver stack. Even if drive is not shown continue below.

Then work your way through these - remember the drive could be bad, could have a loose cable or
slight corrosion on the contacts (usually for a laptop) and other issues.


Your CD drive or DVD drive is missing or is not recognized by Windows or other programs
http://support.microsoft.com/kb/314060 - a Mr Fixit

The CD drive or the DVD drive does not work as expected on a computer that you upgraded to Windows Vista
http://support.microsoft.com/kb/929461

When you insert a CD or a DVD, Windows Vista may not recognize the disc
http://support.microsoft.com/kb/939052

Your CD or DVD drive cannot read or write media - A Mr Fixit
http://support.microsoft.com/gp/cd_dvd_drive_problems

CD/DVD drive does not appear in Windows Vista, or you receive this error during Windows Vista setup after booting from the DVD (AHCI)
http://support.microsoft.com/kb/952951

CD-R drive or CD-RW drive is not recognized as a recordable device
http://support.microsoft.com/kb/316529/

Hardware devices not detected or not working - A Mr Fixit
http://support.microsoft.com/gp/hardware_device_problems

Another possibility is that the cables are loose. Remove ALL power, then check cables in both
ends. Remove and replace, do not just snug. For laptops you can often clean the power and
data contacts with a pencil eraser.

Some DVD drives do not use the Windows default drivers so check with the System maker and
device maker to see if there is firmware or drivers for you drive if needed.

Hope these help and Happy Holidays!

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Rob - Bicycle - Mark Twain said it right.