Computer Question - Laptop disc drive

[TheMurph]

Hey smart computer people, I've got a question. My Dell Inspiron 1545 that I bought about 4 months or so is only registering my disc drive intermittently. This is the first time I've used the drive since I've had the computer so it's driving me batty. When I put a disc in there it makes a weird burring and clicking sound and sometimes will read the disc if I tilt my laptop at a certain angle. If I leave it flat on the desk it doesn't register the disc or drive. Any idea?

 

[Ar-Pharazon]

Are you talking about a CD/DVD drive?

If so, you should be able to find a replacement, either new or used, and pop it in there.

 

[Amaris]

Hey smart computer people, I've got a question. My Dell Inspiron 1545 that I bought about 4 months or so is only registering my disc drive intermittently. This is the first time I've used the drive since I've had the computer so it's driving me batty. When I put a disc in there it makes a weird burring and clicking sound and sometimes will read the disc if I tilt my laptop at a certain angle. If I leave it flat on the desk it doesn't register the disc or drive. Any idea?

The mechanism that moves the eye may be damaged. It's something you would have to replace, unless you're in the mood to do some electrical work. You can get a replacement drive for about $45. If it's under warranty, they should replace it.

J.

 

[TheMurph]

Thanks guys. Yeah it's under warranty so I guess I will let them take care of it. I was hoping it would be something I could do myself, but hey that's what a warranty is for.

 

[Robert Maxwell]

Yeah, just go with the warranty. Takes longer but is worth it in the long run.

 

[Alpha_Geek]

On most Dells the optical drive pulls right out. No tools needed.

On the I 1545, it's a one screw operation:
http://support.dell.com/support/edocs/systems/ins1545/en/SM/optical.htm#wp1038494

 

[Ar-Pharazon]

I figured it would be a hot-swap. My Latitude D620 doesn't have any screws, just that locking push/pull thingy.