DVD wont read DVD's but will play CD's

[clarkey01]

DVD software installed and everything, used to work, now doesnt. Everything I can think of I have checked, any ideas ?

 

[MobiusPizza]

You don't need DVD software to read data DVD disc. Try a data DVD disc instead of DVD video disc

 

[gsellis]

Does it not even see the directories on the DVD in Explorer? If that is true, check cables. If cables are OK, it may have a dead laser/optics.

 

[Mingon]

Different laser unit due for cd and dvd as they are burnt with different wavelength

 

[Zepper]

What have you changed between when it worked and when it didn't. Go back and remove any software changes and see if it works again.
.bh.

 

[corkyg]

Mingon is right on! When one works and the other doiesn't, that usually means it is a problem with the DVD laser or lens. IOW, a hardware problem - not software or drivers.

 

[CalvinHobbs]

most probably as others have mentioned the dvd laser is not functioning

 

[Zepper]

Or needs cleaning - cleanliness is next to godliness in optical drive performance.

.bh.

 

[furballi]

Try with another PC. I concur that you may have a problem with the DVD laser.

 

[Jeff7]

Just curious, what brand is the drive?

 

[DerelictDev]

I agree, most likely messed up laser but can also be crap dvd software; like some oem DELL bs.
I recommend just installing some codecs (if required) and getting media player classic or another player. If its still doesnt work, go to newegg and buy a new one ;p

 

[sandorski]

In my experience DVD drives seem quite flaky. I have a similar problem with mine, except it has trouble reading CDs and no problem reading DVDs. Wouldn't be so bad, except that when it has the problem with CDs my system locks hard.