CD-Drives don't read and run

Problem:

Both my CD drive and CD-Burner drive will let me install
software out of them, but then when I try to run software
off them, or try to play audio CDs, they screen
freeze/lock up the PC.

As both of them are doing the same thing, I presume it's
Windows XP that's the problem.

Or perhaps it's the cable...

With low tech skills, I need some help / suggestions.

Any ideas?

Thanks

Nobby