PC Hardware Techs.

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May 21, 2005 | 11:24 AM

MemOrex

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Postmaster

Joined: Jun 2004

Posts: 2,665

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From: B/CS, Texas!!

PC Hardware Techs.

I am trying to repair my old 52x dvd/cd writer. Yea, I know, i can just go buy another one for cheap, but where's the fun in that?? Besides, computers are my hobby, along with my truck

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Anyway, the problem is, Windows detects the drive, but any disk inserted into the drive will not read. So I'm guessing the problem lies in the drive. I took it apart to see if the laser works, and sure enough, it does. I removed the ribbon wire harness and inspected for breaks, but didn't see any. Any help or website recommendations for help? Thanks.

May 21, 2005 | 12:51 PM

pfogle

Lead Driver

Joined: Feb 2003

Posts: 8,140

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From: Oak Harbor, OH

A common failure is the CD motor, or the laser carriage. If it's either of those two it's easier and cheaper just to replace it. If the disk spins and the laser moves then the controller in the drive is bad, and again it will be cheaper to buy a new drive.

May 21, 2005 | 01:37 PM

Flip4ford

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Joined: Oct 2004

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From: Newton America :-P

IS the lense clean?? Sometimes just claening the lense works.

May 21, 2005 | 02:32 PM

nightowl_52

Elder User

Joined: Nov 2002

Posts: 543

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From: South East Texas

Stretch the four springs that the laser carriage floats on. They tend to relax after a while and the laser doesn't get close enough to the disc. to read it.