Selecting the right disc (CDs, DVDs, and BDs)

CDs, used to store digital data, are also used for commercial audio recordings and are convenient for your personal storage needs. DVDs and BDs are used primarily for movies, software, and data backup purposes. DVDs and BDs are the same form factor as CDs, but have a much higher storage capacity.

NOTE: The optical drive might not support all types of optical discs.

CD-R discs

CD-R (write-once) discs are widely used for creating a permanent copy of data that can be shared as needed. Typical uses include:

●Distributing large presentations

●Sharing scanned and digital photos, video clips, and written data

●Making your own music CDs

●Keeping permanent archives of computer files and scanned home records

●Offloading files from your hard drive to free up disk space

CD-RW discs

Use CD-RW discs (a rewritable version of a CD) to store large projects that must be updated frequently. Typical uses include:

●Developing and maintaining large documents and project files

●Transporting work files

●Making weekly backups of hard drive files

●Updating photos, video, audio, and data continuously

DVD±R discs

Use DVD±R discs to permanently store large amounts of information. After data is recorded, it cannot be erased or written over.

DVD±RW discs

Use DVD±RW discs to erase or write over data that you saved earlier. This type of disc is ideal for testing audio or video recordings before burning them to a CD or DVD that cannot be changed.

LightScribe DVD+R discs

Use LightScribe DVD+R discs for sharing and storing data, home videos, and photos. These discs are read-compatible with most DVD-ROM drives and DVD video players. With a LightScribe-enabled drive and LightScribe software, write data to the disc, and then add a designer label to the outside of the disc.

56 Chapter 6 Drives