Encountering issues with your hardware is not uncommon. One such problem that users often face is the inability to read CDs or DVDs, with the DVD/CD-ROM drive not appearing on ‘My Computer’. This issue is usually accompanied by an error message stating, “Windows cannot load the device driver for this hardware. The driver may be corrupted or missing. (Code 39)”.
This article will guide you through a step-by-step process to resolve this issue, ensuring you can once again access your DVD/CD-ROM drive. Before we delve into the solution, it’s worth noting that it’s always advisable to back up your registry before making any manual changes. You can learn how to do this by visiting our guide on how to backup Registry in Windows.
Identifying the Problem
The first step in resolving this issue is to identify the problem.
You may notice that your computer is unable to read CDs or DVDs, and the DVD/CD-ROM drive does not appear on ‘My Computer’. When you navigate to the Device Manager and select DVD/CD-ROM drives, the missing DVD/CD-ROM should display a yellow exclamation mark.
This indicates a device status error, specifically “Windows cannot load the device driver for this hardware. The driver may be corrupted or missing. (Code 39)”.
Solution: Steps to Fix the Error
To fix this error, follow the steps outlined below:
Step 1: Close All Open Programs
Before you begin, ensure all open programs on your computer are closed. This is to prevent any interference with the process.
Step 2: Open Windows Registry Editor
Navigate to the Start menu search box, click ‘run’ and enter. Type ‘regedit’ to open the Windows Registry Editor.
Step 3: Navigate to the Key
In the Registry Editor, navigate to the following key:
HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE/SYSTEM/CurrentControlSet/Control/Class
{4D36E965-E325-11CE-BFC1-08002BE10318}
Step 4: Look for Specific Names
In the right-hand column, look for any of the following names:
UpperFilters LowerFilters UpperFilters.bak LowerFilters.bak
Step 5: Delete the Keys
If any of the keys listed above are shown, right-click on them and select ‘delete’.
Step 6: Restart Your Computer
After deleting the keys, close the Registry Editor and restart your computer. This will allow the changes to take effect.
Commands Mentioned
- regedit – Opens the Windows Registry Editor
- delete – Deletes the selected keys in the Registry Editor
Conclusion
In conclusion, the “Windows cannot load the device driver for this hardware. The driver may be corrupted or missing. (Code 39)” error can be a frustrating issue to encounter, but it’s not insurmountable. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can resolve this issue and regain access to your DVD/CD-ROM drive.
Remember, it’s always important to back up your registry before making any changes, and if the problem persists, don’t hesitate to seek professional help.
FAQs
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What does the error “Windows cannot load the device driver for this hardware. The driver may be corrupted or missing. (Code 39)” mean?
This error typically means that the driver for your DVD/CD-ROM drive is either corrupted or missing. This can prevent the drive from functioning properly, making it impossible for your computer to read CDs or DVDs.
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What is the Windows Registry Editor?
The Windows Registry Editor is a tool that allows you to view and change the settings in your system registry, which contains information about how your system runs. It’s a powerful tool, but should be used with caution as incorrect changes can cause serious system problems.
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What are UpperFilters and LowerFilters?
UpperFilters and LowerFilters are registry values that can be associated with drivers for your hardware devices. They can sometimes become corrupted, leading to issues with device functionality. Deleting these values can often resolve these issues.
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Why do I need to restart my computer after making changes in the Registry Editor?
Restarting your computer allows the system to refresh and apply the changes made in the Registry Editor. Without a restart, the changes may not take effect, and the issue may persist.
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What should I do if the error persists after following these steps?
If the error persists after following these steps, it’s recommended to consult with a technical expert or contact your device’s manufacturer for further assistance. There may be a deeper issue with your hardware that needs professional attention.
