I'm testing out a PowerShell script that interacts with an optical drive since native commands aren't available in PowerShell. I wrote this C# code to eject and close the drive tray, and it works fine for me, but I'd love to get feedback from someone with more C# experience. Here's the code:
```csharp
Add-Type -TypeDefinition @'
using System;
using System.Runtime.InteropServices;
public class OpticalDrive
{
[DllImport("winmm.dll")]
static extern int mciSendString(string command, string buffer, int bufferSize, IntPtr hwndCallback);
public static void Eject(string driveLetter)
{
mciSendString($"open {driveLetter}: type CDAudio alias drive", null, 0, IntPtr.Zero);
mciSendString("set drive door open", null, 0, IntPtr.Zero);
mciSendString("close drive", null, 0, IntPtr.Zero);
}
public static void Close(string driveLetter)
{
mciSendString($"open {driveLetter}: type CDAudio alias drive", null, 0, IntPtr.Zero);
mciSendString("set drive door closed", null, 0, IntPtr.Zero);
mciSendString("close drive", null, 0, IntPtr.Zero);
}
}
'@
[OpticalDrive]::Eject('E')
[OpticalDrive]::Close('E')
3 Answers
This script uses the winmm.dll to control the optical drive, allowing you to open and close the tray with a couple of commands. It’s actually nice to see this being implemented in PowerShell, even if it feels a little hacky. Make sure to test it thoroughly in different scenarios to avoid any surprises!
If you're looking for a PowerShell alternative, try using the IMAPI2 COM objects. They offer a bit more control and can handle ejection and closing through their methods. You can make it cleaner without having to rely on winmm.dll.
Good point! Using those objects could streamline the process a bit more.
I remember back in the day, there was a program called cokeholder.exe that would do just this! However, it got flagged by antivirus programs. Your approach is way more useful and practical!
Haha, I remember that too! It’s cool how something simple can become nostalgic.
Yeah, it’s a creative workaround! Just keep in mind that it doesn't interact with all drive types the same way.