How to Eject a CD From a Dell Computer That Won't Boot Up

Most Dell computers, except for the mini-laptops, are equipped with a CD/DVD drive. Normally, the CD/DVD drive operates flawlessly, as you simply hit the "Eject" button and out pops the CD. But if your computer won't even turn on or boot up, then you can't get to the eject function and you may think that your favorite disc or movie is stuck for good. Fortunately, Dell provides a solution that lets you manually eject the CD/DVD, even from a computer that won't power on.

Things You'll Need

• Paperclip

Instructions

1. Unplug your computer from its power source.

2. Take a paperclip and straighten out one end.

3. Locate the tiny pinhole near the "Eject" button on your Dell CD/DVD drive.

4. Insert the straight end of the paperclip into the pinhole, and your CD/DVD drive door will open.

Tips & Warnings

• Never manually eject a CD from a Dell in this manner unless it is absolutely necessary.

References

• Jose Pino's Projects & Tidbits: Open a CD/DVD Drive
• Dell Inspiron Owner's Manual, Page 108: Manually Ejecting a CD