Member Avatar for dcc

I installed a CD-RW today and went to the local Staples to purchase some discs, and very shortly there after I found out that I needed an education.

Are the blank discs called media?

My CD-RW is 52x32x52x, does this mean that I need a specific blank disk?

What sort of specs do I need to know about to make a purchase?

What is the difference between the Staples brand and other major manufacturers?

And of course, is there something that I should have asked?

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A short, practical buying guide that follows up on ’s help and ’s new drive.

The three numbers on your drive (for example 52x32x52x) are not a mysterious new format — they list maximum speeds: CD‑R write / CD‑RW rewrite / CD‑read. The blank disc you pick must be the right type (CD‑R if you want a one‑time burn, CD‑RW if you want rewritable discs). Media also carry their own maximum speed; the drive and disc negotiate and the final burn speed will be the lower of the two. See a concise explanation on optical drive specs here: Optical disc drive.

Choose based on use, not just price. CD‑R is the safest choice for distribution and wide playback compatibility; CD‑RW is handy for frequent rewriting but is less likely to play in older standalone players because of lower reflectivity (CD‑RW). For important or archival data, prefer branded media from known manufacturers and avoid anonymous, very cheap bulk discs. Buy a small spindle first and test one burned disc in the exact player or device you plan to use.

Practical tips: look for the disc type and speed rating on the package, check for any “Made in …”/manufacturer ID if you care about quality, keep firmware updated on the burner, and avoid adhesive labels (use a soft felt‑tip marker on the printable side). If a disc fails in a device, try burning at a lower speed or testing a different brand before assuming a drive fault.

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Member Avatar for Thong_Ispector

Yes all disc's are called media.

Yes there are different qualities of disc's

You can use any CD-R up to 52x
So if you find CD-R 48x they will work..

Did your hardware come with Nero?
It is decent software...

There are others to AVOID like the plague...
One in particular virtually requires a full reinstall of the OS to get rid of it...

Sorry but I cant remember the name of it...
I will probably remember it as soon as I log off.

Member Avatar for dcc

Thanks Thong Ispector...yes I did install the nero express. I'm off to puchase some media!

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