CPU: late 2018 MBP - 2.6ghz - 32GB ram.
I tried to use the slim LG external DVD reader. It powers on, spins disk - but it does not appear on the desktop or in Finder.
I’ve used this LG DVD writer before on DVD’s. Never had a problem. Even tried DVD’s i’ve already made backups of, they don’t show either.
I am thinking the problem is the DVD’s.
Anyone have any suggestions?
MacBook Pro 15″, macOS 13.1
Did you try a CD? I ask because DVD drives have two lasers. One to read DVDs and the other CDs. So, if CDs work, but DVDs don't, that would mean the laser for DVDs has died and the device will have to be replaced.
SOLVED - the old DVD drive was bad. Was not a MBP problem.
I tried CD and DVD - nothing registers on desktop or finder. New USB cable didn’t fix either.
I picked up a new external DVD writer and it works perfectly.
Thanks again to all who helped troubleshooting! I didn’t want to just immediately purchase new equipment before trying other solutions.
J
Go to the Finder's General settings and make sure all checkboxes are checked:
Does it show up in the System Information as an item under USB?
Is the USB cable replaceable or is it directly attached to the DVD drive? Also does it work on other non Ventura devices? i.e. after it didn't work on the Ventura device does it still work on non Ventura devices?
Does this drive work on other Macs? Does it work if you use something like an audio CD?
Ok, that tells me either the drive itself is bad or the cable went bad.
Paul
Paul - the usb cable is replaceable. I’ll look for another one as this DVD drive is old. Before micro USB.
It did not work on the non-ventura iMac.
Kurt - I have now tried the LG Slim Portable DVD writer (model AP70NS50) in a 2013 iMac, 2018 MBP and a 2020 imac - all intel machines, all have this problem.
Old Toad -
Thanks for the reply!
I should’ve stated that I checked all those boxes. The DVD still doesn’t show on desktop or in finder 🫤
Paul - it does not show in system info.
Paul - thanks for the help! I’ll try a new usb cord when I locate one as it’s a super old one.
Probably just time for a new DVD drive anyway. It is old too.
J
Yes, I know what you mean. I have a 2012 iMac that I can't seem to get rid of. :)
Kurt -
Nice, I’ll try a CD later when I return home.
Thanks to all who have replied. Looks like I’m closer to a solution.
Glad you've gotten it resolved.
Stinks when a device works one day, and the next it's dead without any previous signs of impending doom.
External DVD player doesn’t register on 2018 MBP
