Reference number: CH000495

How to determine what type of CD drive I have?

Question:

How to determine what type of CD drive I have?

Answer:

Microsoft Windows 98, 2000, and XP users

Microsoft Windows users can easily determine the type of CD drive is currently installed in their computer by following the below steps.

1. Click the Start Button and then click the "Programs" folder.
2. Next, click the "Accessories" and then the "System Information" folder.
3. Within the "System Information" window, click the "+" symbol next to "Components".
4. If you see "CD-ROM", click it once to display the CD-ROM in the left window. Otherwise click "+" next to "Multimedia" and then click "CD-ROM" to display the CD-ROM information in the left window.

Note: Although Microsoft Windows may list a CD-ROM drive as being installed, this may only be a compatible drive to what is actually installed in the computer.

Other methods of obtaining additional information about the CD-ROM

Users can also determine the type of CD drive by physically inspecting the drive; below is a listing of different methods of determining additional information about the CD drive.

1. Many CD drive manufacturers will have their name on the front of the drive; many times a speed will also be listed (for example: 52X), and in some cases the model of the drive. If you are unfamiliar with CD-ROM, CD-RW, CD-R, or DVD drive manufacturers, you can find a listing on our CD network section.
2. Because a manufacturer of the CD-ROM drive is often not enough information, if you are unable to obtain enough information from the front of the drive, it is recommended you obtain the remainder of the information off the top of the drive.
   
   Many CD drive manufacturers will have stickers on the top of the drive that contains complete information about the CD drive. It is recommended you take the case off the computer and, if needed, remove the CD drive to acquire all of the information from the top of the drive.
3. Unfortunately, not all drives will list the speed of the CD drive. If you are looking for how fast the drive is and you are unable to locate any two digit number followed by an "X" (for example: 52X) on the front, top, or bottom of the drive, use the model number of the drive to locate additional information about the drive on Computer Hope, the manufacturers website, or other resources on the Internet.
4. If you are unable to locate a manufacturer or model number of the drive, but are able to locate a FCC identification number, it is recommended that you perform a FCC search using that number. Additional information about FCC numbers and how to search for information about a FCC number can be found on our FCC dictionary definition page. 

Reasoning:

Product listing or specifications

If you are trying to list all the specific information about your computer, it is recommended you specify the type of CD drive the computer has, its model number if available, and its speed. For example:

Black 52X Sony CD-ROM, Model CDU5211

Drivers or installation

If you are trying to determine what drivers to install, we recommend you visit our CD-ROM drivers page. This page will direct you to the proper location to install drivers depending upon the manufacturer and includes generic CD-ROM drivers for users who cannot determine the manufacturer of their drive.

Additional CD disk drive installation information can be found on document CH000415.

Replacement or repair

If you are trying to determine the type of CD drive is installed because it needs to be replaced or repaired, it is recommended that the drive be replaced with another CD-ROM that uses the same interface. For example, if your computer is using an IDE CD-ROM drive it is recommended it be replaced with another IDE CD-ROM.

Additionally, you may wish to consider upgrading to a drive that offers additional support. For example, if you are replacing a standard CD-ROM you may wish to replace the drive with a CD-R or CD-RW drive. 

Additional buying tips on buying a computer CD drive can be found here.

Additional information:

• See our Blue-ray, CD-R, CD-ROM, CD-RW, DVD, DVD-R, DVD+R, DVD-RW, and/or DVD+RW dictionary definitions for additional information about each of these terms as well as related information.