Trouble Copying Files to CD

Copying files to CDs is a good way to preserve files. As technology advances, however, there is a risk that the CD format will become obsolete or the data will become impossible to retrieve. To counter this risk, save files in more common, universal formats. Some of the safer file formats to use are DOCS, JPEG and TEXT files. Label CDs with felt pens after copying. Also label the disk holder. Store disks in a safe place that is not exposed to high temperatures. Common problems with copying files to CDs can be fixed by taking a few simple steps.

• 1

  Check the CD to be sure that it is writable. CDs must be formatted to have writable capabilities. Writable CDs and DVDs will have an "R" in the name. Other types of CDs or DVDs will not support files. CDs are best used for documents and files. DVD disks work for saving videos, music and images.

• 2

  Open the CD in the computer to see if it has already been used. If files have already been copied to the CD, it might be a one-time use CD. This type of CD will not allow any more files to be copied on it.

• 3

  Check for compatibility issues. If copying information from one CD to another CD, be sure that the files on the original CD have been written in a program that the user's computer supports. Sometimes files created in a specific Apple software program will not open in a Windows operating system.

• 4

  Open files in the CD after copying. Double-checking to see if the copying process worked will save the heartache of lost files later.

• 5

  Know how much data the CD will hold. Most CDs hold from 650MB to 850MB of data. If this amount is exceeded, some computer operation systems will create temporary files to hold the extra data.