My HP DVD Writer 200i won't read anything

My HP DVD Writer 200i won't read anything... music or data.

Hello....1st time poster.
I have been using computers for a while, but things usually worked. I have played around with configurations and software, downloads and all sorts of things. I've usually gotten myself out of scrapes through research and luck. This one is not that easy for me.
I have seen suggestions where it is advised to clean off the dvd (reader?). First question would be how to access the reader? The other thing would be the connection with the harness of wires coming off the back of the device. I figure if I have to open the computer to do that, I might wait until I learn how to get to clean the device reader(?).
I've got other problems but if I can just get the dvd going I can still function. I use the dvd to make listening material for when I am working in my photo studio. (I am an eBayer).
So there you have my first try at becoming more knowledgable about computers in general. This website is great. I have learned a bit, then I try a little bit...and then I get into trouble. Oh well, I surrender. I will follow instructions should they materialize. Thanks for your time.....rob

 

Hi Pete.......Thank you for the 'welcome'.

You're advice is appreciated. I will follow instructions and post my findings.....rob

 

Hi again...btw, I am running XP home w/ sp2 (re-installed today via cf card. I copied sp2 cd onto cf card using my wife's computer and then ran it on mine through a USB reader. A few days ago, I ran CCC cleaner. It asked to delete temporary files or something, and without checking each file I said OK. Not long after that I noticed my problem)


Does it still burn CD/DVD? Does it fail to read both CD's and DVD's - different lasers are used for each.
Doesn't do either one

It is feasible that the laser(s) are dirty - you could try blowing canned air into the drive via the slot/tray opening.
I'll get some when I go out later and try that

Go into Device Manager - Control Panel > System > Hardware > Device Manager - expand DVD/CD-ROM drives by clicking on the + sign. Your drive should be listed - any flags - ! mark on yellow ground?
No Flags or marks

Right click on the drive > remove/uninstall.
Check

Reboot to allow Windows to detect the drive again and reload the drivers.
Check

Test the drive and post back.

Still not reading





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I rather suspect that the drive has died,
but you could check it out by hitching it up to your wife's computer - given that it is a desktop, as a further check.


How would I connect the two towers?

 

Open up your wife's computer (powered down) and disconnect the ribbon cable and power supply from her drive and connect to yours. No need to fit the drive into the case - just support it.

I think it's just time for a new drive.....Thanks

Now I'll take my road show to the software page as soon as the issues begin to show their darling little faces again....

Yov've been a great help.....thanks