A TechLore "Ask the Experts" Question...
Question:
I received a Norcent DVD PlayerDP 321 for Christmas. I hooked it up yesterday and have yet to play a Disc. The disc tray opened and I placed a disc in it and closed it. End of story. Can not get the tray to open again and the read out says there is no disc present. Is there any way I can get the disc out without breaking the system?
-submitted by Sandiebee
Answer:
You've unfortunately discovered one of those moments that make using electronics...well...frustrating. It's always a pity when something doesn't work out of the box, especially when it eats DVDs and won't spit them back out.
Since it was a Christmas gift, you have only a few options.
- If you were given a gift receipt with the player, you should take it back to the store where it was purchased, if possible. If this is possible, you can have them remove the DVD for you, and exchange the player for a new one.
- If returning the DVD player to a store is not a possibility, then you could remove the DVD yourself. Removing a disc is not difficult. To do so, you'll need to remove the lid of the DVD player by unscrewing the small machine screws on the back, and possibly sides, of the player. Once the lid is off, it should be simple to retrieve the DVD.
- Another possibility is to contact Norcent customer support (909-305-2121). You may find that you can mail them the DVD player, and receive another one in return. This is often the way they handle products given as gifts. They may advise that removing the lid could void your warranty, but if you send them the player with the disc in it, it is unlikely you'll see it again. You'll need to discuss this with Norcent.
The DP-321 had a retail value of around $38 to $49 dollars, so I wouldn't invest much to get it repaired or replaced, like pay shipping costs or lose the DVD. If the cost to repair or replace exceeds 2/3 the value of the player, don't bother. You could easily replace it for a similar unit at a discount store, or as you're already thinking, a better one.
Matt Whitlock - Editor, TechLore.com
