My a-fore-mentioned second issue is that the computer does not recognize the second recovery CD when it comes time for it in the recovery process.  The CD is free of dirt, scratches, smudges, etc.  In fact, it looks pretty close to brand spankin' new and (as I suspected) changing the BIOS settings back to their defaults did not help any.  I'm assuming they had me do that just in case I wasn't able to boot from CD or the drive itself had somehow gotten disabled.  Looks like I have to call the owner of the PC and let them know that its going to be a while since I'm going to have to order new recovery disks.........ARGHH!!!  Below is a copy of the response they sent me....enos lives.....

Andrew Baran,

Thank you for contacting SONY Online Support.

Please click the URL link below to review the information:

http://www.iq.sony.com/srvs/autoresponse.asp?id=153193

There are several possible solutions to a DVDROM or CDRW drive not reading a disc.

Follow this procedure to reset the BIOS to the setup defaults.

1. Ensure the computer is turned off.

2. Turn on the computer.

3. At the SONY screen, press the F2 key.

4. In the AwardBIOS Setup Utility window, press the RIGHT ARROW key until the Exit menu is selected.

5. On the Exit menu, press the DOWN ARROW key until Load Setup Defaults is selected.

6. Press the ENTER key.

7. In the Setup Confirmation dialog box, press the ENTER key.

8. In the AwardBIOS Setup Utility window, on the Exit menu, press the UP ARROW key until Exit Saving Changes is selected.

9. Press the ENTER key.

10. In the Setup Confirmation dialog box, press the ENTER key.

If the problem persists follw the steps below :

Be sure to wait at least a few seconds for the disc to be detected by the computer before double-clicking to access it.

NOTE: If the drive will read or play discs, but not play one disc in particular, check the shiny side of the disc to see if it is dirty. Sometimes the adhesive from holders will get on the disc and prevent the disc from playing. This adhesive can be difficult to remove. Try pressing a piece of transparent tape over the adhesive and then peeling it off (several times if necessary) to see if this lifts off the adhesive from the disc surface.

Please ensure that this is not a problem with the media (disc) that you are using.

If  your SONY Recovery CD(s) are damaged, you may purchase replacements directly from the SONY Parts Center web site below. They will be able to inform you regarding the correct part number(s), price, shipping and product availability:

     http://servicesales.sel.sony.com

If you are unsuccessful in locating the exact item you wish to purchase, or have any other purchase questions, please contact the Sony Direct Accessories and Parts Center for further assistance:

     http://servicesalesqwest.sel.sony.com/web/contact_us.jsp

TIP: The SONY Direct Accessories & Parts Center can only bill and
       ship parts to valid U.S. addresses. If you are currently outside
       the United States, you would need to have a friend, relative, or
       business associate in the U.S. order and receive the part for
       you. They could then forward it to your current location.

Thank you for the opportunity to be of assistance.

The Sony Internet Support Team
Online Support and Services Center
CBDZ
Ajit


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Original Message Follows:
------------------------
Email Address: abaran[at]positivevision.biz
Recip        : sos
Future Mail  : Yes
Name         : Baran, Andrew
Model/SN     : PCV-RX860 / 3052388
OS           : Windows XP
Hardware     : Not Applicable
Issue        : Recovery CD, System
Type         : Support
             :
Message      : I am trying to run the system recovery with the Default Factory Install settings and when I get to the screen asking for CD Vol.2 I insert the CD labeled "Sony Application Recovery CD  PCV-RZ10/RX-800 Series CD #2" and it does not recognize the CD.  It just keeps asking me to insert Vol 2 CD.  Any help is greatly appreciated.