Faulty Disk Drive

[Wizzo]

I have a Vaio NV109M, and as the title suggests, my combi drive does not work. When the operating system starts up (XP Home) the drive is recognised and even ejects, but refuses to read anything.

I have been told that is may be the head.

does this sound like a problem that is easy and cheap to fix? Is it just a case of taking it to any computer shop and they will be able to fix it, or will i need to order a replacement from Sony?

thanks for your help

Wizzo

[kee-lo_]

Cheap, 'fraid not.
Can cost up to £400
Impact Computers should be able to stock the drive for you.
All you need to do is put it in the bay.

[Wizzo]

£400!! probably more than the notebok is worth now!

Obviously that is not an option! I have an external dvd writer. Would i be able to format my laptop using the system restore disks? It uses USB 2 to connect?

[kee-lo_]

Nope as it doesn't support USB boot up
Check eBay too.