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    DVD drive not working

    Discussion in 'Toshiba' started by Coz, Jun 15, 2008.

  1. Coz

    Coz Newbie

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    I have a Toshiba Satellite M55-S3293. The DVD drive has slowly stopped working, and now it won't read discs at all. In the past, I've used a cleaning disc to get it working temporarily, but it won't even read the cleaning disc now!

    Is there any way to tell for sure that this is a hardware issue, and not a software one? Also, can anyone point me to where I can buy a replacement drive? I'd rather not dump a ton of money into this laptop, as it's nearly 3 years old, has a few other issues and I'll probably be replacing it within a year or so (probably not with a Toshiba).

    Thanks!
     
    Coz, Jun 15, 2008
    #1
  2. PhoenixFx

    PhoenixFx Notebook Virtuoso

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    If things got worse gradually like you explained, then most likely a hardware failure. It'll be easier to search for a replacement drive if you can find the part number (should be written somewhere on the invoice, user/tech manuals or on the drive itself).

    Unfortunately, notebook replacement drives are pricey. If you can’t find an exact match or if they are too expensive then you can either get a portable external dvd drive or buy a normal desktop DVD drive and an USB enclosure (last option probably will be the cheapest but least portable).
     
    PhoenixFx, Jun 15, 2008
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  3. David

    David NBR Random Reviewer NBR Reviewer

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    Most likely a hardware issue. You could try reinstall the drivers for the optical drive, but I highly doubt that'll work.
    Try ebay for optical drive for your M55. They're about $35 including shipping.
     
    David, Jun 15, 2008
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  4. Coz

    Coz Newbie

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    I'm bidding on a replacement drive on ebay. Thanks for the help!
     
    Coz, Jun 16, 2008
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