dvd/cd drive problem

My dvd writer is recognised by my computer system hardware is not reporting any problems and I can load from it.
The problem is I cannot write with it in Nero and Cheetah they report that there is no writer in the computer.
My writer is a Philips DVDR1640P
I have also tried a cdrw drive and still no recorder present.
I am using XP.
Any help you can give will nr greatlt appreciated.
Many Thanks
Letnup