How to Fix My CD Writer

A CD writer is used to create music and data CDs. You can create personal music mixes, backup files and transport reports and other files. CDs can also be used for picture slide shows. CD writers support several types of disks, such as CD-R, CD+R, CD-RW and CD+RW. If you start receiving error messages or your CD writer isn't recognized, it's time to take steps to troubleshoot and fix your CD writer.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Two blank test disks: CD-R and CD+R

1. Insert a blank CD into your CD writer. Open your CD burning software. See if your CD writer is displayed within the software. This checks to see if your software finds your CD writer. If the writer is recognized, burn a test project. If you receive an error, try a different type of disk. For instance, if you used a CD-R disk, try burning with a CD+R disk. Some writers only work with one or the other.

2. Check to see if your CD writer is recognized by your operating system, if it's not found by your burning software. Check your hardware list for disk drives. In Windows, right-click "My Computer" and choose "Manage." Select "Device Manager" and expand "Disk Drives." Ensure your CD writer model is listed. If it is and you see no symbol, such as an exclamation point, beside it, then your CD writer is recognized correctly. Continue to Step 3 if you see a symbol beside your drive.

3. Update drivers for your CD writer. Right-click your CD writer while in "Device Manager" and select "Update Drivers." Be sure to have an active Internet connection during this time. This sometimes resolves exclamation points and red X errors next to your drive.
   
   Alternately, visit the CD writer's manufacturer's Web site for the latest driver updates. These are typically found under "Downloads," "Support" or "Help" on manufacturer Web sites.
   
   If the symbol still exists, right-click the CD writer again and press "Uninstall." Restart your computer and allow your operating system to automatically recognize and reinstall your CD writer.

4. Check to see that all cables are connected securely if you've recently installed a new CD writer. Turn off your computer. Open your desktop or laptop and disconnect and reconnect all cables connected to your CD writer drive. Tighten all screws to prevent the CD writer from vibrating out of place. Close your desktop or laptop. Restart your computer and allow the CD writer to be recognized by your operating system.

5. Ensure your CD writer is compatible with your operating system. If you still have your original paperwork for your CD writer, check system requirements for compatible operating systems. If not, check your CD writer's manufacturer's Web site for model specific system requirements. Drivers are also available from the manufacturer's site for hardware to be recognized by supported operated systems.

6. Ensure your CD burning software is compatible with your operating system. This can result in a "CD Burner Not Found" error or something similar, depending on your software. Install a different burning software as a test.

7. If nothing works, purchase a new CD writer. These can be ordered from your computer's manufacturer's Web site or at many electronics retailers. Power surges can cause CD writers to stop working. Older CD writers may also simply wear out, causing them not to read CDs correctly.

Tips & Warnings

• Most CD writer errors are compatibility issues between the writer and your operating system or your software and operating system.
• Don't open your computer to check cable connections unless the computer is turned off. Working inside a computer that's still powered on can result in an electric shock.

References

• Microsoft Support