Compaq Armada 1520DM Laptop CD Rom Drive Problem

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.

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.

Reply to
Brad
Loading thread data ...

Hi,

I forgot to menti>Hi,

Reply to
Brad

CDs are read starting from the centre, and the table of contents (TOC) is near the centre.

formatting link

Have you tried cleaning the lens? It has to be done properly or damage can occur, or at least the cleaning will be ineffective. A dirty lens should always be suspected first when there's read difficulties.

It could be that the motor bearings have gummed up over the years due to lack of use. With CDRoms, especially laptop CDRoms, it is often very difficult or even impossible to lubricate the motor bearings. The symptoms would be like you have- sluggish to read the disc's at first but better once full power is applied to the motor to spin it up to full speed.

Dave

Dave

Reply to
Dave D

ElectronDepot website is not affiliated with any of the manufacturers or service providers discussed here. All logos and trade names are the property of their respective owners.