DVD Stuck in iBook

31 Dec 2007 19:45:44

Steve Weatherly-Barton

Just came back from Southampton with a ClipArt package from the Apple Store. First disc inserted didn't show up on the Desktop of our G4 iBook, and won't eject. I suspect we'll have to head for Southampton again and grab someone at the Genius Bar, but if any WAMUG genius can help we shall be grateful. I've tried restarting holding the Eject Key down, likewise the 'mouse' bar, but all that happens is that the disc thrashes around as if trying to escape.
And p.s. - would it be wise not to use the iBook till the problem is solved?
Thanks, folks, and Happy New Year!

Re: DVD Stuck in iBook

31 Dec 2007 22:09:34

Terry Willis

http://docs.info.apple.com/article.html?artnum=50991

Learn how to Eject a CD or DVD or Open the Optical Drive Tray of an iBook with a tray-load optical drive. For iBook models with slot-load drives, see Mac Help for your model of iBook.

Make sure the disc is not in use.
Quit all applications that are using files on the disc.
Press the Media Eject key at the top-right corner of the keyboard.
If that doesn't work, hold down the function key and press the Media Eject key.
If that doesn't work, drag the disc's icon to the Trash.
If that doesn't work, restart the computer, and hold down the mouse button as the computer starts up.
To restart, choose Restart from the Apple menu.
If the disc still won't eject, eject it manually

Carefully insert the end of a straightened paper clip into the emergency eject hole on the drive tray.

Re: DVD Stuck in iBook

1 Jan 2008 12:35:34

Steve Weatherly-Barton

Thanks, Terry. Wasn't really expecting an answer on New Year's Eve!! The machine in question has a slot drive, and if I understand correctly what Mac Help is saying, there is some firmware available to help prevent this problem occurring, but it looks like you cannot or should not download it when a disc is stuck in the drive. So I guess it means calling in the professionals to release the disc, and leaving the iBook asleep till then.

Re: DVD Stuck in iBook

1 Jan 2008 20:24:45

Lionel Ogden

Is there a manual eject button inside the edge of the CD slot like there is on the iMac which you can operate with the universally useful straightened paper clip. It would be so nice if this were to work to save the embarrassment of seeing a Mac Store genius whip out his paper clip and eject the disc with a professional flourish.

Re: DVD Stuck in iBook

4 Jan 2008 18:58:01

Steve Weatherly-Barton

Alas, no, Lionel. The Mac Store genius tried to release the disc with a sort of plastic mini-spatula, but finally concluded that there was some impact or pressure damage to the iBook which had finally taken its toll. His prescription was a new disc drive (about £230 for parts and fitting, which would not really make economic sense). I'm hoping there will be someone locally who could provide some rather cheaper first aid, extract the disc, and render the rest of the machine usable till we can afford a replacement. All suggestions gratefully listened to!

Re: DVD Stuck in iBook

4 Jan 2008 21:22:00

Eleanor Spenceley

Hi Steve,

You could try http://www.pbfanatic.co.uk/ for a more reasonable second-hand part.

Also there are a number of sites showing how to 'do-it-yourself' (If you're brave enough!)
http://www.powerbooktech.com/knowledge,repair-manuals.htm
http://www.ifixit.com/Guide/Mac/iBook-G4-12-Inch/83/

Re: DVD Stuck in iBook

5 Jan 2008 18:20:56

John Surtees

You might want to try this

http://discussions.apple.com/thread.jspa?messageID=4673356

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