DVD dropping out

[cyberdad]

I have a Plextor PX-708A ATAPI DVD. When I boot up it shows in "My Computer" and in the Device Manager. I can use it to read a DVD but as soon as I stop reading the DVD it stops showing in "My Computer" and the Device Manager and it will not eject the DVD. When I reboot it will show up again in "My computer" and the Device Manager. I don't know what I am doing when I get into the BIOS. Could my problem be there?

CPU AMD Athlon XP2800+ @ 2.08 GHz
MOTHER BOARD ASUS A7N8X-E Deluxe Rev 2
RAM Corsair TwinX 1 GB DDR400 XMS3200
GRAPHICS CARD Radeon 9800np 128 DDR
HARD DRIVE WD 120 GB SATA
POWER SUPPLY 400 WATT ENERMAX.
OPERATING SYSTEM Windows XP home

 

[imported_Baloo]

I've seen similar behavior with a faulty IDE cable.

 

[Oyeve]

Originally posted by: Baloo
I've seen similar behavior with a faulty IDE cable.

Yep, had a HD blink in and out recently due to a bad cable.