DVD RW problem

[vaio-user]

I have a Sony Vaio 4XP laptop. Today I tried to do a backup of my files on a DVD. But I seem to have a problem. When I put the DVD in, it doesn't seem to be recognized at all and under details it simply says:

CD Drive (F:)
CD Drive
Free Space: 0 bytes
Total Size: 0 bytes

It does play DVDs and I can write CDs and I've also created my Application and System recovery disks previously which work fine. It's only when I try to write DVDs. It won't even allow me to copy the files into the "CD" drive (I definitely have the unwritten DVD in the drive).

Can anyone help me? Thanks!

[stephanius]

Hi there,

what you are experiencing is totally normal.

Windows XP includes built-in capability to write CDs.
Windows XP does NOT include built-in capability to write DVDs!

You need to use a DVD writing software to write your data to DVDs. If your model is a S4XP you will have RecordNow DVD burning software preinstalled.

[vaio-user]

Thanks so much for this, Dilbert! I was having a queasy moment after reading previous threads and finding out my CD/DVD-RW was a Matshita. I was wondering why it was able to create the Recovery DVDs, yet couldn't seem to burn the DVDs. Is there anything else basic you think I should know (yes, it's a bucket question I know but I'm taking my opportunity!!!)? If you could give me any tips, I'd really appreciate it!

[kee-lo_]

I suggest you buy Nero Reloaded - the best media burner in my opinion