dvd-rom not working but cds work

[yasseral1]

Hi,

I have a bit of problem. Everytime I insert a dvd into my laptop it doesn't recognise that its a dvd (i've tried a number of dvds). It recognises something has been inserted but it doesn't actually show any files. The weird thing is that when i insert cds they work completely fine. I've had the laptop for a (approx) year now and it was working fine before. I've tried to dust the lens and even updated the drivers but still no luck. I'm running XP. I did a virus scan and nothing came up. I tried removing the dvd-rom/cd-rw from the control panel and getting window to autodetect it but still no difference. Also my vaio applications and documentation 'cd' doesn't seem to get recognised by the computer so i can't reinstall intervideo. Is that because its a dvd rather than a cd? Wot should i do next? Has my drive had it? How much does a new one cost in the uk? How do i find out if my laptop is in warrenty?

Cheers,

Yasser

[GattoMatto]

Your recovery disk is DVD (thats why it was not recognized). What is your model of cd/dvd drive? How have you cleaned lenses? If you have registred your VAIO before you can look on e-support (www.vaio-link.com) when your waranty was activated and also download all drivers you need.

[yasseral1]

Thanks for getting back so soon.The drive is a Matshita UJDA755. I cleaned the lens using a small amount of alcohol and a the tip of a cloth. I have registered but where exactly will it say whether its still within the warranty period?

Cheers,

Yasser

[GattoMatto]

It would be much better to use lense-cleaners (disks) to clean the lenses. To see your warranty situation you have to login to e-support and go to "products overview" where you can see "Warr. End Date" voice.

[tonybeard]

If you cleaned the lens like that I would be drinking the alcohol. Only use a good brand len cleaner cd. Never make physical contact with the lens in anyway. It has a sensitive coating designed protect it and will never be the same if you use a solvent. Try using Norton System Works one button diagnostic to repair your errant DVD read and update the drivers again.

[Ulverstone]

Hey Jasser,

I've got exactly the same problem, but with a different drive though (sony dw-u54a) and my drive does read DVD-Videos but no DVD-ROM's. I've tried everything including norton systemworks, reinstalling the drivers, etc. Looked on the internet for a solution and found several posts from desparate people who have the same problem, but no solution... I'm currently in contact with sony e-support, but they haven't come up with a solution yet... Keep you posted.

Regards,
Erik