Firmware Update or Replacement?

[wosskie]

I have a Sony Vaio PCG-K315S laptop with a Pioneer DVD-RW DVR-K14. The DVD drive cannot recognise CDs or DVDs, when I put a CD in the light flashes and the DVD drive makes some buzzing noises and thats as far as it gets.

Do I need to update the firmware (can't find anything for the K14, is it known as something else?) or do I need to replace the drive. If I need to replace the drive could I put another make in such as a Sony or Panasonic drive?

[paul_codd]

It could be something far similar than that (also a new drive wouldn't help if it was the case)

One question, can you see the drive in my computer (when it's empty/ in use) or is it simply not there?