Some disks work some don't?

[gln121]

Has anyone else had the problem that suddenly only some of my disks will play on my computer and some won't. Dell tell me it's the software and windows needs reinstalling, which I am loathe to do as I cannot save anything because blank disks won't run in the drive. Just hoped someone else had experienced this and what the answer is. I had a software guy look at it and he thinks it's the drive itself, Dell insist not but then they only cover hardware on their 3 year warrantee! Many thanks.

[qapmoc]

If you are talking about your CD-RW drive then it sounds like it is a hardware fault and the drive itself needs replacing. But when you say ''will play'' do you mean that you can only play some movies or music but not others, because that might be a software problem. If you put a disk with some data or music or a movie on it in the drive and use windows explorer you should be able to see what files are on the CD without actually playing them, can you read the disk content like this. if NO then it is a hardware problem if YES then it might be software.

[Buenchico]

(Posted in 2 parts):

I'll leave it to others to say whether it's a hardware or software problem. The reason for my post is to point out that re-installing Windows does not necessarily involve a loss of data. It's possible to do an 'on-top' re-install which retains all of your data and software. (The only thing which doesn't normally survive this procedure is your anti-virus software. You simply need to re-install this program after your 'on-top' re-installation of Windows).

I've re-installed Windows 95, 98 and Me (my current operating system) many times and I'm happy to provide instructions upon request but I ought to make it clear that I've not actually done it with XP. (This is simply because I refuse to have XP on my computer even though I've been offered a free upgrade. I use XP at work and I've come close to resigning because of it!).

[Buenchico]

(2nd Part):

Post again if you want instructions for an 'on-top' re-install. (It's incredibly easy). Otherwise, if you believe that the problem is actually with with the CD-RW drive, I suggest the following:
1. Contact Dell again. Tell them that you've been advised that it's a hardware problem and request that they put it right. If they refuse, note the date and time of the call and insist on being given either the name of the person taking the call or a reference number so that you can refer them to the conversation at a later date.
2. Take your PC to a reputable repairer and let him assess the problem. If he agrees that a new drive is required, let him install the product. Then insist that he checks that everything is in working order.
3. Ask the repairer for a receipt which states that the new drive was fitted in order to correct a CD writing fault and states that satisfactory testing has taken place after the installation.
4. Contact Dell, referring to the details of your earlier phone call and explain the situation. Insist on being reimbursed for your expenditure.
5. If necessary, refer the matter to your local Trading Standards department. (If you're outside of a metropolitan authority, this will be run by your county council, not the district council).

Hoping this helps,

Chris

[gln121]

Thank you both for your detailed answers.

qapmoc: I don't play music or films, it's usually say business card software, paint shop and games for my 5 year old. The card software will not work, but will on my old computer but it is definately XP compatible, some games do not work although they did once! I had a business here recently to load some business software and he could not load it so had to link my old computer and send it across!

Buenchico: Thank you for that, it is handy to know I can on-top reinstall. Your other suggestion is interesting as I had already contacted a computer repairer to come and take a look and if he decides it's hardware then I was going to contact Dell for reimbursement, here's hoping but Dell have rally disappointed me so far.