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    Laptop dvd rw help needed

    Discussion in 'Hardware Components and Aftermarket Upgrades' started by JohnBoy, Jan 9, 2008.

  1. JohnBoy

    JohnBoy Newbie

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    I have an out of warranty laptop computer badged as an EI Systems Medion MID2020.
    It has a problem in that it will not read any disks be they cd or dvd.It is fitted with a DVD -RW drive manufactured by pioneer (which is no longer available).The DVD drive makes a noise as though it is trying to focus the laser for a few minutes and then stops.I have cleaned it several times with a proprietry lens cleaning kit but no luck.I really think it is dead and needs replacing BUT how do i remove it to fit a new one ?
    I can find no information on the net for this model (the closest was a Medion MD2020).Is it a job best left to a repair shop or can it be done at home,i have built several desktop pc's but never touched laptops.I'm not afraid to open the laptop up but i'd prefer to have some form of guide to refer to before i do so.Can i simply buy any same size slimline drive and fit it.As i said i've never opened a laptop before and so i'm at a loose end as to know what to do.Any information you guys can supply me with will be very much appreciated.
    Cheers.
     
    JohnBoy, Jan 9, 2008
    #1
  2. John Ratsey

    John Ratsey Moderately inquisitive Super Moderator

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    Most laptop optical drives are standard units which are 1/2" (12.7mm) thick and are easily replaced. Here is one.

    One aspect to check is whether, in Device Manager, the optical drive has one IDE channel to itself (channel with current transfer rate UDMA-2 or PIO). If so, any physically compatible drive will work. The other aspect is changing the bezel (fascia) if it is a special shape / size to suit your computer. All the burners I have had used standard fixings (some plastic hooks) so the bezels were inter-changeable.

    John
     
    John Ratsey, Jan 9, 2008
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  3. JohnBoy

    JohnBoy Newbie

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    Thanks for the advice and the link to a new dvd drive.
    I checked in device manager for the dvd drive settings etc and nowhere does it list anything to do with dma.I checked several times just to make sure.
    If anyone reading this is considering buying a Medion branded laptop or pc then my advice is DON'T DO IT !!!!!!! The after sales support is worse than useless.
    Now i've got that rant out of my system,,,any further advice gratefully received.
    Thank you.
     
    JohnBoy, Jan 9, 2008
    #3