How do you fix a combo DVD CD-RW drive run on Windows XP which at first sporadically failed to read discs but could be solved by reboot but eventually completely fails to read any disc

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Answer

There are many things that could cause this, but I would first try this. Since it does read at first, but then doesn't respond after some time it may be a software problem. Find out the exact model of your Drive and Manufacturer. You can usually find the model on a sticker on the back, top, or bottom of the drive. Go to their website and see if you can download new Firmware for the drive. Many times the Firmware will correct problems that exists due to driver conflicts and/or Motherboard/OS compatibility. There will be instructions on how to do this on the manufacturers website. Try this first and if it doesnt work, it may be a bad drive.  

Answer

the DVD CD-rw will not read DVD CD but will read CD