PC Hardware in a Nutshell, Second Edition

CD Writer Software

By itself, a CD writer is a dumb device, which Windows recognizes as just another CD-ROM drive. Using the drive to burn CDs requires special application software to enable writing. Other than the drive itself, the most important element in obtaining fast, accurate burns is the software you use. Two major types of software are used with CD writers:

Premastering

Used to create a CD in a continuous batch mode operation. Premastering software allows you to duplicate entire discs, sessions, or tracks, and is most frequently used to replicate audio and data CDs. You can also use premastering software to assemble custom audio CDs that comprise individual tracks from several audio CDs or to create CDs that contain your own data with a layout that you define. Easy CD Creator is the most commonly bundled premastering software, but we much prefer Nero Burning ROM (http://www.nero.com).

Packet writing

In addition to batch premastering, which all burners support, some burners support packet-writing mode. In simple terms, packet writing extends the Orange Book CD-R multisession specification. With early burners, you had to record the entire disc in one continuous operation. Orange Book Part II allowed keeping a volume open for multiple recording sessions. Packet writing goes further, allowing a session to remain open while adding discrete packets. Packet-writing software allows the drive to be addressed as just another Windows volume, much like a gigantic floppy disk. You ...