Creating a DVD or CD Using Windows + Alternative

I’ve always had a problem using Windows to create a DVD or CD.  I don’t know exactly why, but the usual sequence is: 
1.  I click on the DVD drive, which opens the DVD player.  I insert a blank disk and close the drive.  Windows {version} might start a dialog about formatting the disk or ask how you want to use the disk
2.  I start dragging files into the folder.  When done, I click “burn to disk” or something like that.
3.  The DVD opens and a message says, load a blank CD/DVD.
And I go round and round.

The solution(s) to these symptoms are many.  First though, here are the “official” Microsoft instructions for using straight Vista:  Vista DVD/CD Burning Video.  Although this is a Vista video, you’ll get the idea.  Google "DVD/CD burning" and add your operating system + “video” to see a video for your situation.

Often the problem is due to software installed on your computer that takes precedence over the basic Microsoft software, such as Roxio.  Other times the problem is that the MS program is faulty- and needs to be updated with a patch.  For an example discussion of options, see Cannot Burn Info to CDs- system says insert disk.   In general, you can usually find a solution to your problem by googling a description of our problem, such as “windows won't burn to disc  Drive opens and says insert blank disk.” 

One important note:  What you want the disk to “be” is key to successfully creating the copy; ie, music vs video vs data.  Plus, under each major type there is a whole decision tree of questions and answers that result in a procedure for making the copy. (Another blog entry on this topic.) It turns out making DVDs and CDs is not for amateurs.  That’s too bad.  I think a whole Dummies book could be written just on making DVDs and CDs.   Hmmm… maybe I should do that.?  But then, if you google your problem, you almost guaranteed to find the answer.   

There are a few free DVD/CD burning packages that simplify the process.   You can use these, but…

1. You’ll probably need to get rid of the software that might be pre-installed, because that software will complicate the burning process.  Make sure you consider your DVD driver; ie, some systems come with a driver specific to the pre-installed software.  An example is Roxio.  You will need to download a generic DVD driver from the manufacturer’s web site.  Ugh…
2. Some of the software is free… but… all features are not available until you purchase a full version
3. You need to read the help.

Here’s a list:

• Windows Media Player for audio (or iTunes or …)  This comes standard on Windows systems.  But please pay attention to the kind of disk you are creating.  Usually you want to make the DVD/CD a data disk with mp3s.  Read the help or google what you want to do with WMP and watch a YouTube video. 

• Windows Movie Maker (part of the Windows Live Suite) for movies.  Again, pay attention to the formats (Codecs)  There are better movie makers out there, but this one is simple.  Works on Vista and 7.

• Express Burn Disc Burning Software:  Clear and simple!  But meant to be a lead to the paid product.

• Image Burn:  Used to create Image CD/DVDs.  Oh dear.  Another blog entry will be required to explain this.  But… you need it!