The laser diode is probably not working anymore. Are you saying you had your house power go down while the recorder was burning a DVD-RW? If so then I would suspect the laser.
Buy a new one. The laser diode cannot be replaced cheaply enough to compare with the cost of a new unit.
Reading might still be possible since very low power levels are required. Writing requires higher power that gets the substrate very hot. While it is hot it is magnetically manipulated by a recording coil, or a "head". This is for the RE-writeable versions. One time recordables use a different method but still require high power from the laser diode.
Since the problem isn't with the RW type only, it must be with the diode or the encoding section for the recorder. Still I would suggest that unless you spent $1000's on it. you get a new one. They have become almost a disposable consumer good at this point. All units under $200 will be too expensive to repair and will cost you more than they are 'worth'.
High end units will be less likely to suffer a breakdown. I would also suggest a "good" surge protector for your electronics shelf. A good unit made by a world class manufacturer like APC will cost less than $50 and will protect everything you plug into it. TV's, DVR's, DVD's, 5.1 surround sound systems. All can be damaged by large surge currents in the AC Grid. Protect them or cry about them. Those ARE the choices. Sorry more help could not be given. Protect your future investments and the ones that are still working as well. Get a surge suppressor.
DVD malfunction
Posted - May 20 2008 : 11:52:51 PM
