Little computer help needed

[SiberianDVM]

*$(_$@@_!!! POS HP pavilion 513n!!!!

The DVD/cd-writer drive isn't working. So I took it out and replaced it with a Plextor cd-writer from another computer that I KNOW works. Now it doesn't work in this HP either. What does that leave? Bad cable or bad controller on motherboard?

The drive isn't recognized on the My Computer and won't open and close most of the time.

[Pa Jayhawk]

*$(_$@@_!!! POS HP pavilion 513n!!!!

The DVD/cd-writer drive isn't working. So I took it out and replaced it with a Plextor cd-writer from another computer that I KNOW works. Now it doesn't work in this HP either. What does that leave? Bad cable or bad controller on motherboard?

The drive isn't recognized on the My Computer and won't open and close most of the time.

The most logical choice you may check first is the little plastic jumper on the back of the drive on whether it is set up Primary, Slave or Multi. It is a little plastic jumper that covers two of the six pins on the back center of the drive. Just compare the old drive and set it up the same. If there is not one, use the one for the old drive. If there is not one on the old drive, set up the new drive the same by taking off the jumper, but make sure to save the jumper. Just diagram what it was on the old one. There is also likely a "M", "P", and "S" etched above.

What version of windows do you have? You also may need to go into the CMOS settings at startup to tell it you have a new drive.

If the jumper is O.K. my first thought, and likely the cheapest is a bad ide ribbon cable. I would start there. First just make sure the old one is secured correctly. Make sure you plug it in the correct way, with the red on the correct side, or you can fry the coponent. They are the most likely culprit, but only run $5-10 Make sure to pull the old one so you get the correct length and correct amount of connectors. Diagram on a piece of paper the which side the red line is on.

Also check for broken or bent pins where it connects. If the cable runs 2 devices check the other device.

Just start there, and post back if none of this works or if you have other questions.

edit 1 - I am only assuming this is a desktop, since you mentioned cable??? Also if there is another device on the existing cable, make sure it works. If it doesn't, I would bet on a bad cable still.

[SiberianDVM]

Well, the bitch is working now.

So I'm not touching anything. Til it breaks again.

Thanks, FKA