CD drive tester

[JTM]

Is there any programs to tell me what is wrong with the drive? I know it's broke, but does the eye need to be cleaned? I think the drives are shot, they make clicking noises sometimes and won't read or install most discs, but will burn cd's fine. Do you know what is wrong? and I don't have that pc program that restricts drive(star something). Is there any programs, and if not, can you provide a link to a site selling cd/cd-r/cd-rw burners.
Thanks, JTM

 

[PC eye]

Bart's Stuff Test #5 has a free version available at http://www.nu2.nu/bst/ As far as the clinking sounds heard that would mainly point towards the gearing in the drives themselves.

It really depends on how well the drives were made. If you are stuck with some cheap off name brand of drives you can look over some of the better brand drives at http://www.newegg.com/ProductSort/SubCategory.asp?SubCategory=5

Note the lower prices seen there. There are some real good brands available and a few to avoid. Asus, BenQ, Lite-On, NEC, Plextor, Phillips, Sony, are names for the better made.