Section 1. Getting Started
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PlexWriter 16/10/40 Operation Manual
About Software
In order to create CD-R and CD-RW discs you will need to have mastering or other
software installed on your computer system. There are many different software
packages on the market. You can check our web site (www.plextor.com) for an
updated list of software that supports your drive. We provide mastering software kits
in retail packaging for your convenience. Without such software, your CD-RW drive
can only be used as a reader with generic operating system support drivers.
Mastering Software
Mastering software is used to create specific disc formats such as data, audio, video,
mixed mode, etc. An example of such software is Easy CD Creator.
Packet Writing Software
Another type of software writes packets. This software is allows you to format a CD
(similar to the procedure used with floppy disks). Then you can drag and drop files
straight to a CD, use the Send To function on your computer, or use copy and paste
to place files on the CD-R or CD-RW disc. This type of software turns your
CD-R/RW disc into a giant floppy. An example of such software is DirectCD.
Duplication Software
Yet another type of software copies from CD to CD. An example of this software is
DiscDupe 2000 in Plextor Manager 2000, or CD Copier in Easy CD Creator.
However, not all CDs can be duplicated. CDs created with packet writing software
can not be replicated with duplication software. (The packet writing technology used
to create those discs limits this function. It is not the fault of the duplication software
or your hardware.)
For more details on the various software packages for writing to CD-R or CD-RW,
please visit the web sites of the companies whose software you are interested in,
refer to their user’s manuals, or look at the help option within the software. A list of
various software packages that you can use with your Plextor drive can be found in
the support/compatibility section of www.plextor.com.
