CD-RW drive won't connect to laptop.

August 10, 2006 2:43 PM

My CD-RW drive will not firmly attach to my Dell Inspiron 8000 laptop. If I push it with my thumbs, it will make a connection, but as soon as I remove firm pressure, it loses its connection.

Basically, no matter how firmly I push it into the case, it never gives that satisfying "click" of connection, and can be removed again without pushing the switch on the underside that should be required for removal. I've looked at the connections, but given that I don't know what I'm looking for, it's unsurprising that I didn't see anything. Any ideas?

posted by UKnowForKids to Computers & Internet (3 answers total)

The locking mechanism on the bottom of your laptop may have broken. This happened on my 8100. There's a small piece that's spring-powered inside the laptop that'll click when you insert....


Does the release slide work? does it move back and forth?

Can you see any debris in the chasis.... Likely you'll have to take the case apart to really figure out what's going on... it's not much fun, but it can be done.


Good luck
posted by hatsix at 4:19 PM on August 10, 2006

I noticed that the floppy drive in my 8000 falls out every now and then - it still clicks in but seems to come out with little provocation. I assume the spring is just worn - it is about six years old after all... I don't know about you, but I'm way over due for a new laptop...
posted by wfrgms at 11:25 PM on August 10, 2006

You need to send it in. I had the same problem with my Inspiron 4000. I'd leave the drive out until you get it fixed because every time it slides in and out it messes with your system.
posted by radioamy at 12:40 AM on August 11, 2006