System Diagnostics and Troubleshooting118
5.7.14 Solving CD-ROM and DVD Problems
Table 5-16 CD-ROM and DVD Problems
Problem Cause Solution
System will not boot from CD-ROM 
or DVD drive.
The CD-ROM or DVD boot is not 
enabled through the Computer 
Setup utility.
Run the Computer Setup utility and enable booting to 
removable media and verify boot order settings.
Non-bootable CD in drive. Try a bootable CD in the drive.
CD-ROM or DVD devices are not 
detected or driver is not loaded.
Drive is not connected properly 
or not properly configured.
1. Reconnect power and data cables to the drive.
2. Install correct device driver.
Movie will not play in the DVD drive. Movie might be regionalized for 
a different country.
See the documentation that came with the DVD drive.
Decoder software is not 
installed.
Install decoder software.
Cannot eject compact disc (tray-load 
unit).
Disc not properly seated in the 
drive.
1. Shut down the workstation and insert a thin metal rod 
into the emergency eject hole and push firmly. 
2. Slowly pull the tray out from the drive until the tray is 
fully extended, then remove the disc.
CD-ROM, CD-RW, DVD-ROM, or 
DVD-R/RW drive cannot read a disc 
or takes too long to start.
CD has been inserted upside 
down.
Re-insert the CD with the label facing up.
The DVD-ROM drive takes 
longer to start because it has to 
determine the type of media 
played, such as audio or video.
Wait at least 30 seconds to let the DVD-ROM drive 
determine the type of media being played. If the disc still 
does not start, read the other solutions listed for this topic.
CD or DVD disc is dirty. Clean CD or DVD with a CD cleaning kit.
Windows does not detect the 
CD-ROM or DVD-ROM drive.
1. Use Device Manager to remove or uninstall the device 
in question.
2. Restart the workstation and let Windows detect the 
device.
Recording audio CDs is difficult or 
impossible.
Wrong or poor quality media 
type.
1. Try using a slower recording speed.
2. Verify that you are using the correct media for the drive.
3. Try a different brand of media. Quality varies widely 
between manufacturers.