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What are CD-R and CD-RW?

19 years ago

I know this is beyond basic--too basic for even Google to answer. I have been buying both of these to use to back up my files. The idea is that if my computer crashes, I can use these discs to put all my files on the new computer.

Which one is correct to use? I can't even get an answer at Staples, which is why I'm using both. I know one means read-only and the other means rewritable but my big question is: Which one will let me transfer files to a new computer? And then modify those files, especially Word docs, my address book and so on?

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Comments (5)

Pooh Bear
19 years ago
RW type disks, whether it be CD or DVD,
should only be used for short term storage.

Either type disks will let you
transfer files to a different computer.

If you use the RW type disks you
can edit the files on the disks.
If you use the R type disks you
can copy the files to a computer,
then edit the files, and then
put them on another disk, R or RW.

RW type disks are not a reliable storage media.
If you are just moving a file from one computer
to another you shouldn't delete the original until
until the copy is safely on the other computer.

If you are just wanting to back up files on your computer,
use the R type disks and make a new copy periodically.

If you have a small number of files to back up
consider using a web service to store them
or get a USB jump drive. (very handy to have).

Whatever backup solution you choose remember,
it won't work if you don't use it.

Pooh Bear
owbist
19 years ago
For your purpose the CD-R is alright to use but once used to store your data you cannot write over it. You can add more data till the CD is filled

You could of course also use the rewritable but they are much more expensive as you may have noticed when buying them. If you frequently update your backups this may prove better for you, especially as you already have some of them.

Having never used a CD-RW I cannot explain how to write over existing data but it should not be too difficult. Perhaps someone else will come along and enlighten both of us.
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Pooh Bear
19 years ago
CD RW disks can be formatted
and then used just like a floppy disk.

The dye layer in RW type disks is unstable
making the disks unsuitable for long term storage.

For long term storage use good quality disks.
The link below is for DVD but it applies to CD as well.

Pooh Bear

Here is a link that might be useful: Disk Quality Explained
owbist
19 years ago
Thanks for the explanation Pooh. I never felt comfortable with rewrites but a friend says he uses them fo movies all the time with no problems. Of course movies are not quite the same as personal data.

As for quality, I agree. Buying unknown brands seems foolish when the savings are minimal
ginny12
Original Author
19 years ago
Thank you both for the excellent information and the crystal clear explanations. And thanks for the link about DVD quality. I am using Sony CDs.

I have a Dell 8300, running Windows XP2. I do have a DVD drive but don't know if I can put files on DVDs with it. I think it's read-only. Frankly, I am still using floppies a lot for everyday use and the CDs for back-up every few months.

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