DVD-RW Data Un-Readable

[lqcorsa]

I'm backing up some very important files on DVD-RW disks with a 4.7 GB capacity on them. I have a huge stack of disks, and I'm about to re-format my computer. But before re-formatting, I tested a DVD-RW disk, and their isn't anything showing up on the disk! Apparently its an ongoing issue with Windows XP, and I'm super frustrated sitting here with all these disks that took me hours to burn. Does anyone know of any fixes for this?

[Edit]

Hmm, well their seems to be a HotFix for Windows XP to fix this problem. I'm not putting 100% hope into it though. I sent a request to get the HotFix...I guess I have to wait at most 8 buisness hours before a tech support agent can send it to me. D=

[Playloud]

For something important, I would ditch the rewritables, and just use DVD+/- R

If it is really important, I would also consider a 2nd hard drive.

[Juggernaut]

For something important, I would ditch the rewritables, and just use DVD+/- R

If it is really important, I would also consider a 2nd hard drive.

Hi,

I agree with Playloud.

My backup options are:
1. 2nd internal HD
2. external HD (which I can move to an alternate location - in case of flooding - as computer is in basement)
3. DVD-R's which are really cheap - can often get for 15 cents/disk. (I have never tried DVD-RW's but I always had problems with CD-RW's so I just stayed away from the DVD counterparts).

Juggernaut

[BHawthorne]

My question would be is are you burning them at max "rated" speed or being a bit more conservative in your burn speeds. Max speed likes to make coasters depending on brand of burner and interoperability of the media being used.

Another thing to keep in mind, RWs burn ALOT slower than Rs.