CD Not Working

[Rick]

Problem: After re-installing WIN2K Pro and re-formatting
the drive to NTFS (wiping it clean), the Compaq CD (used
to do the re-install) does not read CDs. The Bios is
recognizing the player, Explorer window sees the player,
when I insert a CD, the light comes on but the motor does
not start up.

Machine Specifics: Compaq Deskpro EXM PIII 1.2GHz with 1
floppy, 1 Compaq CD, 1 HP 300i DVD/R, 40GB HD

Resolution Steps: 1. Spoke with Compaq about any BIOS or
known issues - nada
2. Change IDE cables (40), jumpers, the works - the HP
works but the Compaq doesn't
3. Purchased a new CD Reader and same results as the
original Compaq CD
4. Tried different combinations of CDs, one Compaq, no HP -
still broke, one HP, no Compaq, HP works.
5. Device Manager is showing no issues

DISCLAIMER: I installed the brand new HP 300i prior to re-
building the machine and everything worked fine - both
Compaq CD and the HP got along great.

Thanks for your help.
Rick

 

[Steve Duff [MVP]]

Well then, try this: delete the non-working CDROM from
device manager. Shut the system down. Disconnect the CD
drive. Reboot. Make sure the HP works. Shut down. Reconnect
the Compaq. Reboot. See what happens.

The HP i-series writers in my personal experience have
had quite a few problems playing with other ATA devices
in the past. You may have better success just putting
them on separate IDE channels if the cables and placement
permit it.

Steve Duff, MCSE, MVP
Ergodic Systems, Inc.