Let me save everyone troubles with this.
The lens in the drive is either dirty or defective. Open it up, put a little rubbing alcohol on a q-tip and clean it gently. Use a dry q-tip to dry it.
If that fails, toss the drive in the garbage and purchase a new one.
I didn't read every last word in here, but a firmware update has a slight chance of fixing too. Try that also before tossing.
If the drive is faulty I have no problem replacing it a new DVD drive is not exactly expensive, however it seems strange that this problem reared its head immediately after I installed my fresh Win7 install.
The one other thing about installing a new DVD drive is I have never done that before, memory yes, gfx cards too but never a DVD drive but I suppose it cannot be that difficult.
I'd really have to say it's coincidence. I've fixed many drives with your no DVD reading problem like this. And tossed many unfixable ones too.
It's very simple to attach a new drive. Take the broken one to the store and they will help you find a replacement of the same type. Install it back in the case with screws, attach two cables and done. There may be a jumper needing to be set. You can ask them about that at the store. They will see your original drive.
If you want, keep the original broken one. If the new one you buy fails in your system (extremely unlikely), return it to the store as you don't need it and I've given you bad advice.
I really don't think this is bad advice.
Sorry thought you said driver and not firmware.
If it let you install Win7 then it may have crapped out. torrentg's suggestion to try cleaning the lens is a good last shot, then find a quality brand replacement at store $50-90 vs. buy.com or newegg $25-40.
Optical drives are becoming less important as flash stick prices come down. I have my 7 install files on primary formatted flash stick in a folder with all other apps/tools - when I wanna install I just move the files into the root and boot from it.
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