NOTE: You, the customer, are solely responsible for data security. WinBook strongly recommends that you perform a backup of all personal data contained on your system prior to performing this procedure. Warning: WinBook will NOT be held responsible for any data loss incurred during this process.

What is CD-Recordable(CD-R)?
CD-R is a WRITE-ONCE recordable media that can be used to create one's own CD with a compatible drive and recording software. Being able to hold approx. 74 min. of audio or 650 MB of data it is suitable for storing data files as well as crystal-clear audio.

What is CD-ReWritable(CD-RW)?
With both the WRITABILITY and the ERASIBILITY, CD-RW has been designed to be a WRITE-MANY-TIMES media for digital data storage. Like CD-R, one can write audio and data files onto CD-RW; on the other hand, files or audio tracks on a CD-RW that users considered to be obsolete can be erased anytime using appropriate software. Being more flexible than CD-R.

How can I read a CD-RW disc?
CD-RW media uses two layers of dye on top of the reflective surface of the disc. One layer is used for writing, and the other layer is activated during erasure. Many older CD-ROM drives and just about all home or car audio CD players have trouble penetrating the double-layer to access the information. To ensure that newer devices would be able to read RW media, among other things, a specification was developed called MultiRead. A drive with MultiRead capabilities can access CD-RW media.
NOTE: Almost all new home or car audio CD players were not designed around the MultiRead specification, and therefore, cannot read RW media.

How do I clean my CD-ReWriteable drive in my WinBook?
The CD-ReWriteable drive requires no maintenance or cleaning. If you simply keep your CDs clean, you will prevent most problems.
CAUTION: Do not attempt to use the CD-ROM cleaning CDs that use a small brush to sweep dirt off the laser mechanism. Do not use high-pressure air to clean the inside of the drive. These techniques will damage the CD-ReWriteable drive.

How much information can I fit onto a 74 minute CD?
You can place 74 minutes of audio on a 74 minute CD. Some people believe that this can vary if you are using the option to write in DAO (Disc at Once), which takes out the two second gaps between tracks. This process will not actually increase the disc capacity, but will maximize the 74 minutes that are available. Audio is a fairly simple calculation, however, data burns introduce some complicated variables.
•Easy CD-Creator: Using this software, you should be able to place 650 megabytes of data on the disc.
•Direct CD: Using this software, it depends on whether you are using a CD-R or CD-RW disc. CD-R, when formatted with Direct CD, usually will have between 550 and 600 megabytes left after format. A CD-RW disc will generally have between 500 and 550 megabytes left after format.

How do I remove the two-second gaps between songs on the audio CDs I create?
After the tracks are selected for recording, click the CREATE CD button in red. In the CD Creation Setup screen, click the ADVANCED tab after making the first screen selections, and select the last option (Disc at Once). This will set the software to write the CD without placing gaps between tracks.

How do I get the latest CD-RW drivers for my drive?
CD-RW drives use the hard disk controller drivers included with the Windows operating system. These CD-RW drives do not require any additional drivers to be used as a CD-ROM. The bundled software installs the needed files to allow the CD-RW drive to write to CD.

Where can I get more information on the Easy CD creator software that was installed on my unit?
WinBook will be supporting the Easy CD Creator software that was installed on your CD-RW unit. But for more in depth information concerning the software please visit Adaptec's Easy CD Creator Support Site.

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Disclaimer: This information is being provided to you as a service from the Technical Support Department of WinBook Computers. It is intended to assist you in the resolution of your technical problems or questions. If you feel uncomfortable implementing any of the information or suggestions contained herein then you should e-mail the WinBook Technical Support Department. WinBook will not be held responsible for any loss of information, data or programming as a result of the use of this TechNote.