Just installed a Samsung SM-348B Combo drive which comes with PowerDVD XP4. It plays MP3 and audio CDs fine but it shuts downs itself each time a DVD is put it (and when I restart the program and try to play again), with a Windows 2000 dialog box popping up an error message saying powerdvd.exe has generated errors. I'm on the verge of returning the drive to the shop though I fear they won't let me exchange for another one. Anyone familiar with this problem please help. Thanks.

Hhm, I bought a used Pioneer DVD-ROM. Neither PowerDVD or, any other media program would read the DVDs. I did get audio CDs to run however. What I found out was the drive was older, and hence had older firmware, that came out previous to my OS (Windows XP). Ultimately, I had to install the firmware. It's a risky maneuver, if the system restarts, or the firmware is corrupt, you may find yourself in a deeper hole than before, becase the drive will not function at all in which case. To find firmware updates, just go to the manufactures website, in your case Samsung. They should have it. To play on the safe side, you may want to return the drive. If they won't take it, maybe have them flash it....(maybe that's asking too much). But if they don't budge, I guess you have nothing to lose. As for some simple solutions, make sure the drive is set to master, on the secondary channel. Perhaps if the drive is newer than your OS, you msy need a new driver to install it.

well you have the right to return the drive if it was recently purchased no matter what except in the case where it was damaged due to OCing and flashing firmware. So i would return it anyways and see what happens. about powerdvd not working you could always try other dvd players like windvd they can be d/led but only the trial versions. try these url's to find out more... http://www.digital-digest.com/dvd/articles/region_dvdrom.html http://forum.rpc1.org/index.php gl

I did update the firmware - no effect. I have managed to return the drive - not without difficulty. Swapped for an LG instead. It came with PowerDVD too and it worked fine. Still wonder what really was the cause of the Samsung's problem. Thanks guys.