Backup OK with CD/R but not with CD/rw

[pebe]

I have used CD/R in the past for Backup with no problems. I thought it would be cost-effective to use CD/RW. I now have problems.

I'm using Adaptec software. I'm not sure whether the formatting is by Windows or Adaptec - there is no indication. But I've full formatted the CD/RW and had it checked for errors.

When I try 'Backup' a 200Mb hard drive, it starts OK but stops with an error at 30Mb, saying it cannot write to the CD. I have tried a second disk with exactly the same results, so it looks like a software problem or 'finger' trouble.

Has anyone any ideas?

 

[cshajkur]

Enclosed is a web site that might provide you with some answers to your question regarding the making of backups.
See Link below:

http://www.mds.mdh.se/~dat95jed/clickfree.htm

 

[pebe]

Thanks cshajkur, but that site does not address the problem I have. It deals with copying files and data errors after they have been copied.

Have you any other suggestions?

 

[ANFPS26]

You said, "I'm using Adaptec software. I'm not sure whether the formatting is by Windows or Adaptec - there is no indication". If you run "Direct CD" it should place a CD icon in your bottom right task bar (SYStray). Direct CD should format your CD-RW with either "fast format" (it formats in the background just what it needs) or full format (which takes a lot longer depending on your drive speed). Direct CD will open a status box showing you that it is formatting. Windows doesn't do it, the Adaptac software does it. Sounds to me like the CD is not completely being formatted. A 4X CDR takes 20-30 minutes to full format. I could be wrong, so don't hold that against me. At least I'm trying! I hope I've helped in some way........

 

[pebe]

Thanks nobrain,

I wasn't sure whether Adaptec or MS was doing the formatting because I accessed it from My Computer>(E> properties> format, rather than from Adaptec. Nevertheless, it seems the formatting was done by Adaptec. I opted for file compression. I used the quick HP format (6mins) and then left it to do the full format (over an hour).

When I try to backup it starts off OK then stops with the message "This media cannot be used with this device. {08-13-2B-03-0000].

When I check properties of the disk on 'My Computer' it states:
Used space 31MB
Free space 540MB

I have since tried a straight copy of all files on my second (D) drive (app 400MB) and there were no problems. It seems to be when I use backup. Is it the file compression that's the problem?

It is the same using 3 different disks.