Both my CDRW and DVD drives have disappeared. Windows says that device drivers are correctly installed but can't locate the devices. Have changed the cable, uninstalled secondary controller, rebooted and nothing has changed. If the problem is at the motherboard IDE connection is there any way I can know for sure. Don't want to fork out for one of those if I can help it as this one is only 18 months old. Many thanks for all help.
Yes they are and they've got power because I can open & shut them. In control panel/system/device manager they are showing, but with yellow !! beside them.
In device manager then, try right-clicking them and choosing to uninstall them. Once done, restart your computer and hopefully they'll be recognised again.