cd-rom not working

My cd-rom drive is not being recognized by computer after attempting to install another OS. My device manager does not list it either. Could the problem be the drivers? I don't think so, I downloaded Mfg. cd-rom drivers (many different ones for my make/model) and installed them. Nothing happened except a window notifying me that I need a cd-rom reader or cd-reader to read drivers. Help. I know this happened at least once to the best of you computer geniuses out there.