Doug Simmons wrote: A while back I had a URL that gave hints and directions on how to clean a CD-ROM drive, but now I am not able to locate it. There are several sites you might want to try. I use this one when I'm in need. http://www.alldata.com/pro/customerservices/questions/cdmaint.htm The other two, http://www.computerhope.com/help/cdrom.htm http://www.techadvice.com/help/Products/C/cdRomDrives.htm are very helpful if you are a tech. I hope that one of these sites will answer your question and get your son back on the road... As far as computing goes. You didn't mention how old the system or CD-ROM was. If it is an older version, it may not be worth trying to fix. Sincerely, Frank Suszka netTek Computers [log in to unmask] Curious about the people moderating your messages? Visit our staff web site: http://nospin.com/pc/staff.html