How to Burn A DVD?

Just bought a new Dell (P4, 2.8, 512) system and had installed a 16X DVD+RW double layer write. I wanted to try to burn a DVD, never did it before. Anyway, I couldn't figure it out. I have RecordNow installed and also have Sonic MyDVD installed. Not sure which program is the one to use. I have tried both and both were unsuccessful. I thought the best way would be to use the RecordNow and copy the CD, but the drive spit the CD out and said to insert a blank CD. IT WAS BRAND NEW. So then I used the Sonic MyDVD and was really CONFUSSED. HELP

DIna

 

Are you using a recordable DVD disc, it is totally different from a CD-R. You mentioned both kinds in your post, that's why I ask. What are you trying to record onto the DVD?

 

I am using a DVD+R to record on. I am trying to copy/burn a DVD movie.

 

While we are on this subject; what does the +RW, -RW, +R, and -R mean? I bought DVD blanks to archive my disks and the guy told me at the store that I would be best to use the -R disks for that use. What's the difference?

 

jimpeel'
The difference is that you would have a greater chance of burning a DVD in the -R format that would be recognized by a DVD player. Most of the older ones favor the -R format, while the newer, inexpensive ones will play either format. From what I have read, and it isn't from experience, most of the older players favor the -R format, the cheaper players play either format equally well, and the more expensive a player is, the more it will tend to favor one format or the other.

 

DVD Shrink http://majorgeeks.com/download4020.html will copy a DVD movie and compress it to allow you to burn it to a 4.7GB/DVD-5(single layer) or a 8.5GB/DVD-9(dual layer) disc. It doesn't burn, so you will need burning software to put it on disc. DVD Decrypter http://majorgeeks.com/download4282.html will copy a DVD movie to your HD, or even burn it to a disc(provided you have a large enough DVD disc, since most movies are released on DVD-9 discs and DVD Decrypter doesn't have file compression) DVD Shrink has an option to use DVD Decrypter's burning function to copy,compress, and burn in one seamless operation. As to Sonic and RecordNow, they do not have CSS decoders, and you may want to go to their sites and make sure they will work with your drive or to get an update to allow them to do so, if available.

 

Well, first of all, RW means that the disc can be written to more than once (kind of like taping over a blank tape in your vcr). There is no standard format for recordable dvds as of yet, so there are different types. The -R discs are compatable with more dvd devices than the +R format. According to CDR Info DVD-R format is playable in over 94% of players whereas DVD+R is only playable in about 87%.

 

I need help with this .
I was told by my computer guy that does help to buy the DVD-Rs instead of what I was useing DVD+RWs. Both times they were burned right but on the DVD+RWs I couldnt even get it to play on my computer.The next time I burned on the DVD-Rs I can get it to work on my computer but not on my DVD player or my sons Playstation.
I told my computer guy and he was suppose to come over yesterday but he is so busy I never herd from him.My grandfather is not doing well and I am trying to burn a DVD for the Funeral.I use the program sonic my DVD and my burner is a R/RW if there is anyone that can help me it would be great.I am new at all this so it may even take a phone call to walk me threw it.
Thanks sondrarose

 

You might want to visit www.afterdawn.com and see the thread "dvd-r for newbies. Lots of interesting info. Happy hunting.

 

Thank You I have been there and have been learning allot.
There is so much to learn.
Thanks Again

 

thanks for the info, i will try all that was suggested