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Old March 2nd 06, 02:47 PM posted to microsoft.public.win98.disks.general
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Default CD Rom Drive Problem (more info)

Hi,

Thanks to everyone who responded to my various posts relating to
this problem. I hope I didn't annoy anyone. I did perform the cleaning,
lube, etc. which some of you suggested, but that didn't solve the problem. I
found technical information on the web about CD disk media, but not the
correct type of information. I wanted to have a better understanding of the
process of the initial reading of a CD rom disk. I have learned a few things
from some of you, which I am very thankful.

Thank you, Brad

On Wed, 01 Mar 2006 17:25:39 GMT, (Brad) wrote:

Hi,

See my original post below.

The only problem (major problem) with the CD Rom drive is the initial
access when I first insert a data CD rom (or audio CD), even when laptop
is on for awhile and warmed up. I have to insert it many times before I
finally have access (if I am lucky). Note: Each time I insert the CD, the
drive attempts to "read" it several times before it aborts. Once the CD is
"accessed", there are no more problems. I can leave the data CD in the drive
all day (laptop power stays on via AC) and never have trouble reading the CD.
The CD will stop spinning when not accessed, but it never has any trouble
spinning up later so I can access data from the CD rom. Once I remove the CD
rom or power down the laptop, my trouble starts all over again. Note: This
happens with other data CD roms too. This is why I wondered if the problem is
reading the "initial" track, and maybe the head can't position itself
properly on that track? I had removed and examined the drive (I am a TV
service tech.) and I couldn't see any dirt or restrictions that may prevent
the head from reaching the "initial" position.

Thanks in advance, Brad

Before you type your password, credit card number, etc.,
be sure there is no active key logger (spyware) in your PC.

Original Post:

Hi,

I bought a new Compaq Armada 1520DM laptop around 1997. A few years
ago, it started to have difficultly reading a CD rom, or playing an audio CD.
However, once the CD was "accessed", there was no problem "reading" or
"playing" (audio) the CD. Note: I have not used the CD drive very often.

The problem relates to inserting the CD, and getting the initial
information, which I assume is on the outer most track. Sometimes, I have to
insert the CD several times (and wait) before the CD is finally "accessible"
(I hear the "spin up" sound, I know from now on, the CD is accessible).
Other times, it isn't accessible (doesn't "spin up" to full speed).

I had removed the CD rom drive (note: I am a TV service tech) and checked
the head movement freedom to the outer edge and I found no "interference"
or no physical reason the head can't "reach" that position.

Any information about what might cause this problem will be greatly
appreciated.