my cd drive is not working

[discobobby]

Im am trying to install windows xp as my computer is a bit screwed up, the problem is when i put a disc in the cd drive the light comes on for a few seconds then goes off again.
when i click on my computer the cd drive is not there. i have tried a new ribbon cable for the cd rom but it is still the same.

i would be most greatful if anyone can help me solve this problem.

thanks.

[VHG]

Assuming your CD drive is working OK you need to go into the BIOS and set the boot order so the PC boots from the CD drive BEFORE it boots from the hard disk.

If you have the hard disk as the boot device before the CD drive it will never boot from the CD drive.

Once it boots from the CD drive the Windows install should start and allow you to format the drive etc.

Note you will lose EVERYTHING off your hard disk if you reinstall Windows.

[discobobby]

Hi thanks for your answer, how do i get in to the BIOS as i am a complete novice.

thanks, bob

[VHG]

You can go into the BIOS by pressing a button BEFORE Windows starts. But the details of the buton to press only displays for a second or 2 before going off the screen (each PC uses a different button).

It may say "press DEL to enter SETUP (or maybe BIOS).

But to be honest if you dont know your way around the BIOS be careful because there are some important options in there which you cannot afford to change.

Also, if you are doing an install of Windows have you got all the drivers for your sound, graphics, networking etc, because without them some of your components will not work.

I hope you know what you are doing, good luck.

[ChuckFickens]

use the fix it half way down the page to bring the CD drive back.

http://support.microsoft.com/kb/314060