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Feb 16, 2010 6:28 AM in response to vendtby Allan Jones,I don't believe there is any software command that would turn it off. You'd have to physically disable it by opening the case, something not for the non-technically inclined. In some computers, disconnecting a drive can cause other startup problems.
What you describe sounds like there is something in the drive. Any small children about? They love to make deposits in slot-loading drives. Perhaps a non-standard optical disk that's too small? I would see if I can feel/hear something flopping around when I tip the computer. -
Feb 16, 2010 8:23 AM in response to Allan Jonesby vendt,Nope, no small children, and I cant hear anything flopping around. For as long as a year, maybe 2, I've noticed that when a set the computer down too hard, or smack the case above the drive, it makes the electro-buzzing noise. I never use the drive so I don't know why anything would be different now, but it has been seriously irritating me the past couple days. Perhaps a unix command that will do the trick? -
Feb 16, 2010 2:58 PM in response to vendtby eww,vendt: It would be possible to disconnect the optical drive's flex cable from the logic board, thus rendering the drive completely inert. But I'm not sure whether, with the connector loosed from the LB, it would stick up too high for the keyboard to fit properly back into place. In that case you would have to remove the drive altogether, or remove it temporarily in order to disconnect and remove the flex cable altogether, then put the disconnected drive back in place. Operating the machine with the drive removed might change the feel of it unpleasantly, but if it doesn't, that may be the thing to do.
http://www.ifixit.com/Guide/Repair/Installing-PowerBook-G4-Aluminum-17-Inch-1-1- 67-GHz-SuperDrive/248/1