Not necessary disagreeing with the response but being more detailed.

In order to read CD-R & CD-RW a the reader must by "multi-read" capable.
Some order readers will read CD-R  and not CD-RW. Some will read neither.
Newer readers will also not read them if they are not multi-read.

Besides PC readers, this situation applies to audio readers also. I have an
old (years or more) audio reader that reads all three formats fine. I also
have two new (less than 2 years) portable audio CD readers that will only
read CD-R.

They do no use different "format" in the way I define format. The inability
to read has to do with hardware not software (format). The reflectivity of
CD-R and CD-RW are less than a standard CD. CD-R & CD-RW use a colored ink
that is changed during the "burn" that makes the "holes" the reflect back or
not. Standard CDs actually have holes in them with a mirrored surface under
the holes. That is cause of the less reflectivity in CD-R & CD-RW. The
inability to read these less reflective disks has to do with the laser
frequency and power.

Daniel Wysocki
Twin*.*Star Computers
770-498-2582 /800-816-0663
[log in to unmask]
Fast - Reliable - Wallet Friendly

-----Original Message-----


>Older CDROM drives cannot read CD-RW...typically those from before 2nd
>quarter 1998.  I am not aware of any software patches to correct this in
>these older drives (?).  Newer hardware (CDROM) will correct this.  Yes,
the
>two media are read differently.

         The PCBUILD web site always needs good submissions.  If
          you would like to contribute to the website, send any
               hardware tech tips or hardware reviews to:
                           [log in to unmask]