My PC [OS: WinXP SP3] doesn't recognize (some?) software DVD's

Hello!

I found this forum thru Google. It seems like it's filling a real need, so I expect to hang around after having solved the problem I am seeking info about (which is, how I came to this site).


The problem:

In general I've never had any problems with my two disc drives (I have a DVD drive and a DVD drive / writer). But I've run into the following problem twice during the last month:

I buy a game, put it into either one of my DVD drives, and... nothing happens. When I open "My Computer ", I see that the DVD drive has changed into a cd drive. The cd is 0 bytes in total and has 0 bytes free. When I try to explore, I just get an empty folder.

My pc is about 2-3 years old, so I guess it might be getting too old for the newer software dvd's...*

Is there any simple solution for this? Preferably a low-risk, low-effort solution, not involving deleting the drivers, finding new drivers, installing them and then finding that the problem has gotten worse... (I admit I'm a grumpy middle-aged cynic ) Like running a patch, or going into some advanced menu hidden in some folder and changing afew options...

Anyone recognizing this problem (I'd appreciate a "I feel your pain" message, even without a solution ).

Anyone a solution (even better of course )


Thanks in advance!

PS I already tried it with my antivirus and firewall off, without succes...

*Thinking of it, I have a hard time remembering installing anything from a DVD-rom... So, I can't really say whether my system has always had this particular handicap and I just never before run into it. Still, I'd like it fixed.

 

Hi and welcome to the BSS,

I think that rules out most of the troubleshooting methods
Low risk, simple...open the case, disconnect the cables to the drives. Startup and boot to the desktop. Shut down again and reconnect the cables.
If the DVD drives are IDE (ATA) (as opposed to SATA) check that the jumper settings are correct. There will be a user guide/manual at the drive manufacturer's website if you need it. Settings of Master/Slave are usually recommended, but the drives are shipped with the CS setting.

Seeing newer media is covered by firmware update releases by the drive manufacturer. They are easy to do, but you need to identify the drive model exactly (the model number will be on the label of the drive).

Matt