dvd and cdr not working

[rossiboy]

Hi all
i have installed windows xp professional and am having a problem with my dvd-rom samsung sd616f and my lg cdrw ced 8081b , i can not get them to work.when i go to my computer icon it does not even show these devices.
when i also install norton system works i get an eror-12 message i think all my previous programs are still on my computer but most dont work, i was able to access my pictures and my kazza music files all were saved but my wifes sage program was lost or should i say does not work.
i am really struggling and am thinking about going back to ME with my system restore discs.
thanks

allan

[curtybob]

technically, all your programs are still there if you did not do a "clean install". they must be entered into the register before you can see them in the add/remove programs and such, but if you can find all your old program exe's, you should be able to run them. that to me is useless because it is more of a workaround than a fix.
is there any chance you tried to install easy cd creator version 4 or prior? this program wreaks havok with your system and will cause your optical drives not to function. it is not compatible with win XP. I believe there is a particular registry key that needs removing to get you back on track. click my user name and e-mail me if this was the case.
Me was the worst OS ever released, period. don't let a few minor setbacks turn you away from XP.