CD-R/RW Drive Light Stays On


Tutorial Home >Hardware >Storage and Drives >CD-R/CD-RW >How do I find out what to do if the light stays on my CD-R/RW drive?
Tutorial Home >Hardware >Storage and Drives >CD-R/CD-RW >Troubleshooting CD-Rs & CD-RWs (2) >CD-R/RW Drive Light Stays On

  Step 1:  Open the PC

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Shut down and turn off the PC. Disconnect the power. Remove the case. Ground yourself before placing your hands within. Note: this step applies to internally-installed CD-R and CD-RW drives. If you have an external, check the external cables.
  Step 2:  Check Cable Orientation

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Check to make sure the cable running between the CD-R/RW drive and the motherboard, or from another drive, is not reversed. Fix it if it is.
  Step 3:  Replace Ribbon Cable

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If possible, replace the ribbon cable running between the drive and the motherboard or another drive. This is mandatory if the cable appears damaged in any way.
  Step 4:  Replace, Restart

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Replace the cover on the PC, reconnect the power, and turn it on. Watch the state of the drive light. It is possible that a reversed cable may damage the drive, and require you to replace the CD-R/CD-RW drive.