Topic: dell tower cd burner help

[ero3030]

the thing just stopped reading my discs   bought a diff. brand, and same thing.  burner shot?  any thoughts would be kind.  ed

[sunjan]

Doesn't the CD drive read commercially pressed software/music CDs either?
You could try run a cleaning disc in it, the laser might be dusty...

[OFOTD]

How long have you had the computer?   Model? 

[ero3030]

thanks, will try.  dell 2400, about 5yrs.   ed

[audBall]

I did a couple thousand discs on an original burner from my Dell Dimension 3000 and the thing died about 6 months ago (~4yrs old).  Chances are, yours is cashed out.  I got a new DVD burner for about $35-40 shipped and it seems to work fine.

[LEDZEPZOSO]

When my Dell burner started acting up I just replaced the burner for $30 from Newegg. I figure for $30 it was simpliar to replace the unit then spend hours trying to trouble shoot.

[Scooter123]

I get about 3 years out of a cd drive.  Its toast.

[ero3030]

thanks guys!  u get used to things running forever, but things do break down.  looks like a new burner it is.  anyone will work?  thanks again TS.  ed

[audBall]

I'd say look for one with DVD + and - R capabilities.  Many, if not most these days, will burn both types.

Avoid unneeded options like "lightscribing". 

I went soopah cheap and have been pretty happy with the replacement.  If it starts acting hinky, I'll just get another cheapo.   

[ero3030]

just threw one in.  back up and burning   thanks guys!!!  ed