cd/dvd writer drive wont recognize any cd - it does see & play dvd's

model is: LITE-ON DVD/RW LDW-451s. i bought the pc as a package deal from "shopnbc" so it it was pre-loaded with windows xp (no cd) & no drivers. its all supposed to be PNP. help

Try updating the firmware. I think I found the right drive. Check it first but I think its right. This should help. http://www.liteonamericas.com/us/download.htm

that firmware (if I'm reading it right) is to correct the problem of the drive not reading a dvd. My drive can read & record dvd's, it just can't "see" any (blank or recorded) cd's.

I would try the firmware update but also have you tried a different brand of cd's? Does the drive read game or application cd's like installing programs?