I'm sure most of you have heard this before.
So I'm going to say it simple.
After reinstalling Windows XP along with all the drivers with my recovery CDs, my Pioneer DVD-RW DVR-K15 Drive isn't acting the same as it used to on my laptop. Here's how it is:

Plays and recognizes CDs
Burns CDs
Most of the times Plays and Recognizes DVD Movies
Does not recognize blank DVD-Rs
Does not recognize blank DVD-RWs
Will not burn DVDs (The main problem)

Also, it should be known that I have tried to use third-party programs, such as ImgBurn, Nero, and I even bought Alcohol 120% to test it. While they all say that the ISO or files are burned and the burning process was a "Success," when I put the DVD back in and look at it in Windows Explorer, it says it's blank with 0kb Free Space, and 0kb Used Space. Even when I bring the DVD to other computers, it says it's blank.

This is a massive bummer to me, because I used to use DVDs all the time to back up my music, movies, and files because CDs don't cut it.
I'm not a tech-genius, so kinda be detailed with me please?

Thanks.

to the PCHF.


1. Suggest you download and run - CCleaner.com
Run both the Cleaner and the Issues.

2. Go to your Device Manager.
Click on and Delete (with the Delete key) any devices that have a ? or !
If the Device Manager has an "Other" category, open it and Delete any devices in the "Other" category.
Reboot.

3. Check your system drivers by clicking on Start>Windows(Microsoft) Update. Click for Custom updates. Install any drivers or critical updates indicated. Second, recommend you click on DriverAgent.com Fix Your Driver Problems Instantly with Driver Agent and check the status of your non-system drivers.

Thanks a ton for the reponse.

I tried CCleaner, but it did no good, unfortunately.
Everything on Device Manager looked fine, and I had no Other option.
The Windows Update only suggested I updated Internet Explorer to v7, so nothing there.
I tried Driver Agent, but it told me my DVD drives drivers were fine with a green check.

Thanks dude, but the problem persists.

When you reinstalled XP, did you do a reformat of the C: drive first?

Yes.

Since this problem has developed since reinstalling XP, please do a couple of test.

First, access the Properties of your C: drive.
Under Tools tab, click on the Error-checking Check Now... button
Place a check mark in both boxes. Click on the Start button.
You will have to reboot to complete the process.
This will confirm that your C: drive is functioning correctly.
If this test fails, do not do the second test.

Second, after the above test passes, place the XP windows install CD in the drive.
Go to Start>Programs>Accessories>Command Prompt
Enter: sfc /scannow
Note: There is a space between the "c" and the "/".
This will confirm that the Windows System Files are intact.