Disappearing CD-ROM

[adamroper]

I currently have my PC configured to Hard Drive on Primary Master, CD-ROM on Primary Slave, and CD-Writer on Secondary Master.

Occasionally, at what appears to be completely random times, I boot my machine and it just hangs at the point that it says "WAIT..." before the BIOS checks for installed drives.

I have discovered, after rigorous testing, that when I unplug the IDE cable from the back of my CD-ROM (on Primary Slave) and start the machine it goes through fine. If I then re-attach the IDE cable to the CD-ROM it works fine and everything is as it should be (until the next time).

I have checked the jumper settings on the back of all of the drives and they are all correct. Any ideas?

[tHE DSS]

Sounds a little like loose connections.

Does your computer case sit where is gets knocks or vibrations?

If your computer is running fine after the adjustments, then the settings should be fine too.

If you have the time, un-plug the cables again and check both ends of each individual connection. Check for dirt, dust, loose pins etc.

You might even want to check that the mother-board is seated firmly. Along with all the other computer components whilst you are at it.

Less likely : you might a have dodgy connection on some circuitry. If all the above and obvious checks don't bring anything up, you could patiently check the "lines" on all the circuit boards - with a magnifying glass, and possibly a small torch.

If you find something.... well... get your money out... it's gonna need replacing.