The tv works but the dvds wont play

my dvd player doesn't play all types of discs, especially homemade like ones ripped from a home computer. However, i do not play many dvds, yet i have replaced the players many times. I dont think that most dvd players are built to last. Sounds like you have 1 built-in (to tv). The players are cheap now-- your better off saving the headache and replacing it- The last one i bought was $30.00 on sale-get a cheap 1 cause i think they all have a short lifespan.