wierd loading failures

[sweetfreek]

Okay, I have a Memorex DL-16x recorder in my pc--always worked beautifully until recently.

For a long time, I used TDK DVD-R (and occasionally other types), but then TDK started sneaking CMCs into their products so I switched to another brand.

Maxell DVD-R proved to be very touch-and-go (RITEKG05), so I switched again.

Sony DVD-R burns, but now my recorder is exhibiting weird behavior of all manner even with older discs, some of which it now refuses to acknowledge is even inside the drive.

If the disc loads at all, it will read perfectly... almost. Some funny behavior still occurs from time to time (like when spinning-up from idle position). Loading failures seem to be with specific discs, but I haven't yet tested that theory.

I think I know what the problem is, but I just want some extra opinions and advise about what to do... apart from replacing the whole unit.

[redwudz]

Except for the spin-up, I would say first to try some different brand discs. The main reason is that media is by far the most common reason for some of the problems you mention.

If by spin-up you mean the speed going up and down while reading, that is more common with media problems or dirt on the lens.

The next thing would be to clean the laser lens in the burner. If you are in a dusty environment, this a a better possibility. You can try upgrading the firmware, though it may not help.

If you have no luck with those ideas, then replacement is maybe the best option.

BTW, this question belongs in the DVD Writer forum. Moving you.