v3.1 - I/O Error

Properties ID: 000032
Filed under:

Problem: I get an I/O error when I try to install or use my CD-ROM.

Solution: Your computer is not able to read the CD-ROM. That is why you are seeing an Input/Output error message.

This can be caused by any of the following:

  1. corrupted or dirty CD
  2. bad CD-Drive
  3. multiple CD-ROMs in the CD drive
  4. corrupted, old, or incompatible CD-Drive drivers
  5. interfering virus or spyware
  6. interfering "system tray" software
  7. no free disk space on the primary hard drive
  8. too many files in the temporary folder.
  9. bad memory
  10. bad Feng Shui

Here's what we recommend to help diagnose the problem:

There are several possible resolutions:

  1. Eject the CD-ROM and do a visual inspection. Look at the Data side (the shiny side with no printing on it) and look for dust, scratches, finger prints, etc. Try not to touch this side and always store your CD-ROM in its case or in a protective sleeve to minimize dust and scratches.
  2. Clean the CD-ROM. Using a clean, dry, soft and lint-free cloth, wipe the CD, starting at the center and wipe straight out to the edge. Do not wipe in a circle or around the CD.
  3. Insert the CD-ROM into your CD-Rom drive and try it again.
  4. Make sure you are using the correct CD-ROM. Make sure there is only one CD-ROM in your CD-ROM drive. Sometimes they stick together if you stack disks on top of each other.
  5. If you have more than one CD-ROM drive, make sure that you are using the same one you used to install it the first time.
  6. If you have more than one CD-ROM drive, try the other drive.
  7. Try the CD-ROM in a different computer. Some older CD-ROM drives have trouble reading our disk because it is very full. Or your CD-ROM drive may be failing. This is an early sign of failing equipment if the CD-ROM works fine in a different computer.

  8. On very rare occasions, a disk has an error during manufacturing. This will cause the I/O Error. If you have tried all of the above and you are sure that you did not damage the disk through normal use, then please send the disk back to us and we will replace it for free. Please send the CD-ROM, License Key and a note explaining the error message and what you have tried to do to resolve it to:

    Thayer Birding Software
    12650 Collier's Reserve Dr.
    Naples, FL 34110
    We will get a new disk out to you right away.

  9. Check with your PC vendor and make sure you have the latest drivers. Some of our CDs are filled to capacity and can cause havoc with out-of-date CD-ROM drivers.
  10. Check the amount of free space you have on your primary hard drive. Windows starts acting weird if you don't have at least 100+MB of space available.
  11. Check your temporary folder. If there are too many files or other folders it can cause Windows to act strangely as well. Try running the "Start/Accessories/Administrator Tools/Disk Cleanup".

  12. Contact your local support store or PC vendor about getting the system tested out...especially the drive and memory.

    You need to upgrade to the latest version of the software. Visit the Online Nature Mall to order.

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