Two questions

6-13-05

I have a Samsung CD-DVD burner, model SM-352N, in a Gateway computer with a Pentium III, 540 Hz chip, 40 GB hard drive, 340 MB memory, running with Windows 98. The burner has caused the hard drive light to stay on, indicating to me that the hard drive is looking for something it can't find. The "My Computer" menu does not show "Drive E," and the CD burner is not working as either a burner or reader. I have disconnected the burner, and the drive light is functioning normally.

According to the Samsung software, when Windows does not recognize the burner, "This case may occur when there is a Windows installation problem; reinstall Windows." Good advice until I go to follow instructions and get a message from Windows, that I will lose all of my data when I proceed with the installation. Not a good thing, I think. I thought I had re-installed Windows in the past without loss of programs or data.

I first noticed the problem when I was preparing to back up my computer using the burner. Most important data is backed up, but I recently downloaded a number of files I cannot replace, and the current situation leaves me between a rock and a hard place. Bummer.

I guess my first question is: Any suggestions?

Question 2: I found what could be a hell of a deal on a reconditioned Sony DVD-CD burner model DRU 530A. My computer meets all of the required specifications demanded by Sony except that it requires an OS above Windows 98. The question, obviously, is, can I run the Sony device, particularly if I am not interested in using high-speed features. I am retired; not in a rush for anything that awaits me.

I tried to contact Sony Corp. with this question. They are as good as the best at totally insulating themselves from any contact not intended to produce additional revenue.

Thanks for any help or suggestions anyone on this list can offer. Jcl

John Losch