How to Troubleshoot an Inland 8X External USB Slim DVD Burner

An external DVD burner like the Inland 8X USB unit is a good choice for computer users who need the functionality of a DVD burner without the hassle of opening their PC cases. But while external USB DVD drives are generally reliable, it is still a good idea to have some basic troubleshooting skills. Since a number of things can cause a formerly functional Inland DVD burner to stop working, it is best to use a step-by-step approach to fixing the device.

• 1

  Shut down your computer and wait for it to power off. Power off the Inland slimline USB DVD recorder and wait for the green power light to go off.

• 2

  Power on the DVD recorder and wait for the green ready light to stay on steady. Power the computer on, then click the "Start" button on the PC.

• 3

  Right-click "My Computer" and look for the drive letter assigned to the DVD burner. Depending on your computer this could be the D, E, F or G drive. Remove and reseat the USB cable if the DVD burner does not appear on the list of drives.

• 4

  Locate the bypass hole next to the eject button on the DVD burner. Unbend a paper clip and insert it into the hole to force the DVD to eject from the drive. Clean the DVD thoroughly and reinsert it.

• 5

  Insert a good DVD in the drive and try to read it. Insert a DVD laser lens cleaner and run the cleaning program. Reinsert the DVD and test the drive again.