C D, C D Run

Q: The following odd problem has surfaced: I have a computer with 2 CDdrives -- one is marked on the face with "compact disk" and the otherwith "compact disk recordable rewritable". On this basis I assume theformer is read-only, and the other is read and write. I have neverwritten anything to the former, but then again never tried. I have discovered that with some CD-RW's, the read-only drive could not access them. It made funny noises and when I tried to log onto the drive with "My Computer" (Windows ME), it said there was no disk present. At first I thought this was due to some error in the operating system (inasmuch as other problems were going on at thesame time), but eventually these were fixed, and I still had the problem.
Stephen A.
A: There are two reasons why a computer would tell you that there is no disc in a drive. The first is because there really isn’t a disc in the drive, and the other is because the drive does not recognize the information on the disc. The first step to resolving this issue is to always to check the obvious. This means ensuring that the disc is properly placed in drive tray. This is not meant to insult your intelligence, but many problems have simple solutions. Next, verify that when you created the CD that you did not merely drag and drop the files to write to the CD-RW. You may have only written a shortcut to the disc instead of a file. It is less risky to do a right click and copy the file to CD-RW drive.
With those common hinderers address you can check your CD-ROM drive for potential problems. It is important to note that because your CD-ROM can read more than one type of disc it doesn’t mean that it read every disc that you put in the drive. The manufacturers documentation that came with the drive should inform you of what types of discs are compatible for your drive. If you no longer have the documentation then you can try to find information on line at the drive makers website.
With that said, your CD-ROM drive needs to have the UDF reader enabled or installed to read your CD-RW. UDF is the acronym for Universal Disc Format. It is in this format that a disc can be written to by packet writing and your drive will have multi-read capability. The UDF reader should be on the installation disc that came with your CD-ROM or you may find it at the website of the drive maker. FYI, CD-RW discs work best in CD-ROM drives made after 1997. The chance for UDF reader software is increased in models produced since then. Anyway, you should be able to find the necessary information to get you started in manufacturers specifications. As always, email me your questions.