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LightScribe.com: Drive not detected
PROBLEM: My LightScribe Drive is not detected by my computer or Labeling Application

Symptoms may include missing LightScribe functionality in labeling applications or error messages stating that no LightScribe drive is installed when attempting to burn LightScribe label.

NOTE: Check that the drive functions as a data read/write drive before initiating LightScribe troubleshooting.

Click on the possible causes below to toggle their solutions on and off.

POSSIBLE CAUSE: No LightScribe System Software (LSS) Installed or LightScribe Service not active.

POSSIBLE SOLUTIONS:
  1. Install LSS. This may have been provided on a separate disc with your aftermarket drive. Universal versions are available in our Downloads section for Windows, Mac, and Linux platforms.
  2. Check and activate the LightScribe Service. On Windows systems, click on Programs/Settings/control panel/administrative tools/Services. Check for “LightScribe Service Direct Disc Labeling Service”. Right mouse click and choose “Properties”. Ensure that Startup Type is set to “Automatic”.

POSSIBLE CAUSE: Faulty hardware Installation.

POSSIBLE SOLUTIONS (internal drives - installed inside computer):
  1. Check that the IDE Ribbon and power cable connections are fully inserted and in their correct orientation. The drive should be recognized by the operating system and should read and write data properly before proceeding with more detailed LightScribe troubleshooting.
  2. Check that the Master/Slave jumper setting on the drive does not conflict with an existing drive. Note: Newer computers may use cable plug position to identify the drive. In this case, all drives will have their jumper on “CS” = “Cable Select.” For single drive installation, set jumper to “master” or “Cable Select” when connected to the Master cable position. See installation instructions from your hardware manufacturer for more details.

POSSIBLE SOLUTIONS (external drives - installed outside of computer):
  1. Check that the drive is powered up with the USB or Firewire cable seated securely. There may be a separate power switch on the case.
  2. If using a USB connection, verify that you are using a USB2.0 interface. USB1.0 interfaces may work, but some systems may encounter errors.
  3. If using a USB connection, connect directly to your computer. Do not connect through an external USB hub. Possible communication corruption may occur through a USB hub.
  4. If your drive has both USB and Firewire interfaces, only connect and use one interface.
  5. If using a Firewire (IEEE 1394) connection, check with your hardware manufacturer for possible software/firmware updates.
  6. Double check that the power supply used is the one supplied with the drive. Some plugs may be interchangeable but have different voltage outputs.
  7. Internal drives installed in aftermarket external cases are not supported due to uncontrollable communication protocol deviations. Many known combinations result in operation errors.

POSSIBLE CAUSE: Windows Operating System not current with all updates.

POSSIBLE SOLUTION: Download and run the latest available Windows patches and Service Packs

POSSIBLE CAUSE: Incompatible Windows Security Setting for drive.

POSSIBLE SOLUTION: The registry key AllocateCDRoms in Windows system must be set to the default 0 value.  Also, the Autorun registry key needs to be set to 1 for some systems.  Please see this Microsoft support document  for procedures to reset these values. If you are not familiar or uncomfortable making this system change, please log request  in support section for assistance.

POSSIBLE CAUSE: Non supported Operating System.

POSSIBLE SOLUTION: Upgrade your computer's Operating System or install the LightScribe drive in a computer running a supported operating system.

POSSIBLE CAUSE: Your labeling application is not recognizing the LightScribe drive.

POSSIBLE SOLUTION: Please contact your software provider for support.

POSSIBLE CAUSE: Corrupted LightScribe System Software installation.

POSSIBLE SOLUTION: Please log a help request  for assistance with removal and reinstallation of the LightScribe System Software.

POSSIBLE CAUSE: Conflict with other Optical Drive programs.

POSSIBLE SOLUTION: In some cases multiple installed programs that access your DVD drive may conflict and tie up resources that affect the LightScribe functions. These can be older versions of Roxio and Nero installed together or with Roxio “Drag to Disc” utility activated.

Disabling or uninstalling each program may help isolate the conflict. Once identified, an alternate vendor’s or a newer version of the same program may resolve the conflict.

POSSIBLE CAUSE: Defective Drive.

POSSIBLE SOLUTION: In rare cases this may be caused by a defective drive.  If none of the preceding hardware installation troubleshooting solutions have resolved your problem, then this may indicate a defective drive. Please contact your hardware manufacture  for more detailed tech support and a possible warranty replacement