CD/DVD drive not working (randomly) on home pc

This post could be in either 'Software' or 'Hardware'.

Running Windows 7.
I have a problem with the DVD rom on my home pc. Today I bought a new one thinking it was a hardware problem, unfortunately it still only works intermittenly. I'll need help with this as I have only limited knowledge of pc stuff. Here's the low down...

Basically, the dvd-rom or dvd drive works randomly. Mostly, not appearing/working. By that, I mean I can't see it in explorer or the device manager and nothing happens when I put a disc in, well not most of the time (remember it works randomly). The problem has been going on for months, just haven't gotten around to doing anything about it.

Things I've tried:
Had Device Manager open for a long time and noticed it appears and disappears randomly.
Opened up the case and checked the SATA cable is firmly connected on both ends.
There is defo power being supplied because the open/close operation of the tray works (all the time).

Any help to start breaking down where the problem is coming from would be greatly appreciated. Cheers!

p.s. I've Googled. It comes up with too many results not relating to my particular problem.

 

OK will try it and report back. Might have to buy another SATA cable first.

 

Well... it was the SATA cable! Since replacing the cable it's been working for as long as the pc has been on and the new cable is in use (a few hours). Hasn't done that for a very long time.

Now to sell the new DVD drive, what a waste of money. Should have been more logical and tried a $1 cable first. Dams the break.

Thanks very much for the suggestion plodr