Frequently Asked Questions
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Q: What type of writable CD or DVD disc should I use with a notebook computer?

A: Writable CDs

CD-R - CD-R discs are recordable, but not rewritable. If you leave the recording session open when you record a CD-R disc, you can add additional files to the CD-R disc in another recording session. You cannot erase a CD-R disc or record over existing files. When you want to store data that does not need to be changed or erased, use a CD-R disc. For example, use a CD-R disc when making music CDs, permanently saving large project files, and archiving home records, photos, or videos. CD-R discs are typically less expensive than CD-RW discs.

CD-R discs are available in two capacities: 650 megabytes (MB), or 74 minutes of music, and 700 MB, or 80 minutes of music.

CD-RW - CD-RW discs are recordable and rewritable. You can use CD-RW discs like you would use 3.5-inch disks or a hard drive, recording over or adding to the CD multiple times. When data may change or need to be erased, use a CD-RW disc. For example, use a CD-RW disc when saving project files that are a work in progress, erasing files that are outdated or confidential, or updating files that have changed. Also, before recording on a CD-RW disc consider where you may play the CD. Many home or car stereo CD players do not play CD-RW discs.

CD-RW discs are available in a 650 MB, or 74 minutes of music, capacity.

Writable DVDs

DVD-R - DVD-R discs are recordable, but not rewritable. If you leave the recording session open when you record a DVD-R disc, you can add additional files to the DVD-R disc in another recording session. You cannot erase a DVD-R disc or record over existing files.

DVD-R discs have a storage capacity of 4.7 gigabytes (GB) per side and can be read by most DVD drives.

DVD-RW - DVD-RW discs are recordable and rewritable. The DVD-RW technology is mainly used for video.

DVD-RW discs have a storage capacity of 4.7 GB per side. Media can be overwritten 1,000 times and have a data storage life of 30 to 50 years.