HP DVD writer + Nero problems [unsolved]

[Shakes]

Hey guys,

I've been experiencing some bad DVD burns lately with my DVD writer.

I have a HP DVD Writer 200j (or 200 i/e -- which ever it is called/classified as) -- which is a combo DVD/CD-R writer. I'm using Sony DVD+R discs and I've used others too, and all I get is a bad burn. The program I am using is Nero Burning Rom 6 (6.6.0.13) and my firmware is up to date on my writer.

What I'm trying to archive are Data (ISO) DVDs of live concerts in FLAC, that are just sitting here on my hard drive.

One thing I will say that I noticed while using Nero is, before I burn a DVD and I click the "burn" tab, I'm given the option to choose a speed of either "2.4x" or "Maximum". Now say I were to stick a DVD in before even clicking the burning icon to bring that up, that burn tab only leaves me with "2.4" and the "Maximum" option has disappeared ... I'm honestly thinking this is what has to do with my burning problems maybe and I can't seem to fix it.

I've gotten the dreaded "Unspecified target error" before and I managed to burn one DVD (finally) but it fails the Data verification.

I've burned at least 4-5 coasters already ... I believe it's definately not the media (Sony DVD+Rs) since I've had my fair share of burns from this package already. My burner tends to give me a good burn or a bad burn when it feels like it. I've tried using other media (Platinum DVD+R) and still get the same results.

Now, I have two logs .. the first one is when I got the "Unspecified target error" and the second one is the "Data verification error". If you'd like me to post them, let me know and I will.

I'd also like to state that when I burn cds I am disconnected from my DSL internet service and make sure that all running programs are closed as well.

I've made sure my ASPI layers are correct, I've disabled my drive and let the computer re-dectect it, etc.

I've un-installed Nero, and re-installed (even earlier versions) and still... the same stuff.

I do not believe anything is wrong with the lens because it reads my CDs and DVD (ISO or video/audios) just fine and extract just fine.

I've submitted queries to Nero customer help, Afterdawn.com and cdclubfreaks and so far, no luck.

I've tried, for the hell of it, cleaning the lens with alcohol using a q-tip ... no dice.

Firmware is up to date

If any one here has any help, it'd be appreciated... due to this problem I can't get stuff out to those who I owe trades too, or even offer B+Ps.

I am using WinXP Service Pack 1.


If this is in the wrong forum, I apologize... I looked around, this should be the correct one, no?

[ofbarea]

Is your burner using 1.72 firmware?

If not read this guide: https://www.videohelp.com/forum/viewtopic.php?t=174580

[Shakes]

Yes, the firmware is up to date at 1.72.

[ofbarea]

Have you attempted using other burning software. Download and install the trail version of TMPGEnc DVD Author and burn a disk with it.

Also try uninstalling/reinstalling Nero.

[Shakes]

I've tried that as well. No luck.

With the CD/DVD writer ... the CD burning works, the DVD burning doesn't.

When I put a dvd in, my floppy drive starts to spins then stops after a blank dvd is inserted. That's when the problem arises.

[ofbarea]

Try using a cd cleanner, then uninstall the burner from the Device manager and have windows to redetect it again.

If this does not work I think your will have to look for a new burer.

Ricoh documented that the optics for this drive have two lasers but just one lens. So it is possible for the CD portion to be OK and the DVD portion to fail