I have had intermittent problems with the HiMD disc that came with the unit. Somtimes it would work, and sometimes it would be "protected". I was able to use it after putting tape over the area that is checked by the sensor. (kind of like the old cassette tapes) I just purchased a number of HiMD discs, and the player says they are all protected (regardless of tab postion) until I put some tape on them. I contacted Sony and explained the problem, and they say there is no problem with this model (mine is a "rare instance", as they described it). This does not seem to match the comments I have seen on the net and this forum. After verifying the tab position, and removing and replacing the battery??, they suggested that I send in the unit for repair - using the return webpage. There is a $29 fee to have the unit replaced with a refurbished unit. For $30, I can keep putting tape on the disc - plus I won't be without the unit while it is in for repair. There is no indication on the website that they would ship the refurbished unit and allow me to ship the defective unit back in the shipping materials. Anyone know if this option is available ? Anyone had any better luck with resolving the problem ?