Laptop can read DVDs but not CDs or VCDs
I have an IBM R51 laptop, just recently it can not read CDs, VCDs, even cleaner disc. When I go to my-computer, it does not show anything even when the disc is inside the drive, but it can easily read DVDs. When ever I put the CD/VCD in the drive, the light in the drive blink after sometimes it stop, unlike for DVD where it works normally. Will you please help me?
Sounds like you have a failing optical drive. Apparently, the CD reading module is not working properly but the DVD reading module still working fine. I’ve seen it happening before.
There is not much you can do to fix the drive. You’ll have to replace the whole optical drive.
April 21st, 2010 at 4:08 am
i have same problem. can we fix it? thanks.
April 21st, 2010 at 8:36 am
Veronica,
If the drive can read CDs but not DVDs or vice versa, this is a bad drive. You’ll have to replace the CD/DVD drive or you can purchase a use an external USB CD/DVD drive.
April 28th, 2010 at 9:18 pm
I have also seen this issue also it is probably part number UJ-810 they have this issue all the time. i would suggest if it is the UJ-810 (part number is listed on the cd rom) replace it with the UJ-820 the bezel will fit and they are a lot better drive.
June 20th, 2010 at 11:41 am
I have a Vaio CR 220E, i need to replace & buy dvd/cd drive, where can I buy one or can i use a generic one & how do I go about replacing it.. is it too hard, do i need special tools for it.. pls assist
July 16th, 2010 at 10:08 am
I got lucky with this easy fix. My Matshita UJ-32D would read CD but not DVD. A site (sorry I lost the URL) noted that CDs read from center outward and DVD from outer rim inward so any obstruction of the lens’ movement (perhaps due to the ribbon cable) may prevent reading of one or the other. I slid the lens transport back and forth a few times to check for free movement, left it at the outside limit and tried a DVD. It worked!