How to eject a stuck cd/dvd

Recently saw an item in weekly newsletter or radioshow followup advising method to release a stuck DVD tray by inserting a small priobe into the small hole in the front of

the DVD drive. Is this correct, and is it safe to do? Please advise. Thanks.

This question was answered on May 10, 2005. Much of the information contained herein may have changed since posting.

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Yes it is safe to do

Start by turning the computer off

Get a medium-size or large paper clip and straighten the long leg

Look closely at the front of the CD drive; you should find a hole that's about the right size for the paper clip (Not the earphone jack, of course!)

Sometimes there's a groove just below the drive door instead of a hole.

Carefully push the paper clip straight into the hole to release the catch

The drive door should open without too much pressure

If this doesn't work, the drive may be physically jammed shut

In that case you'll need a hardware technician to fix it.

About the author

Posted by Ronald of Chandler-Gilbert Community College on May 10, 2005

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