DVD+-R/+-RW Dual-Format Drive

[NapalmTruth]

First off, Do I have to have a DVD-Rom plus the DVD+-R/+-RW Dual-Format Drive to copy my DVDs or could I use a regular CD-Rom drive and the DVD+-R/+-RW Dual-Format Drive to copy my DVDs?

Can someone explain what all this means (DVD+-R/+-RW Dual-Format Drive)?

[doctorgonzo]

You can't read DVDs in a CD-ROM drive, so if you want to copy DVDs you will need a DVD-ROM in addition to the DVD-writer, or two writers. Of course, be aware of any copyright issues when you are copying DVDs.

The formats are simply different formats because manufacturers can't agree (big surprise). Generally, the plus formats (DVD+R/DVD+RW) are easier on computers, but since you are getting a dual format drive you have the best of all worlds. If you are specifically burning DVDs to play back on a standalone DVD player, then check the player's documentation to see what it can use. Most players can handle at least DVD-R.

[NapalmTruth]

One more question.

When can you tell your DVD-Rom crapped out. 2 Days ago, I turned on my computer an it didnt detect my DVD-Rom so I restarted and it was there but it wouldnt play DVDs (It would play CDs though). Today it wont even detect the CDs. Pretty much done for?

[ConLog]

It's probably history.:(

[doctorgonzo]

Does the drive show up in Device Manager? If it does, try deleting it and having Windows re-detect it. Check to see if there are new drivers available.

If you try these things and the drive still doesn't work, it is probably dead.