How Windows Recognizes DVDs versus CDs

[analyst44]

Is there a reason that when I insert a blank DVD into my NEC DVD-/+RW that Windows asks how I want to use the Blank "CD"?

Also, when I burn the DVD and insert it for playback into the HD using WinDVD or whatever, the "type" under "My Computer" is "CD Drive". That seems odd to me.

This does not seems to have a deleterious effect on burning or recognition of the DVD, I just found it kind of odd and wondered if something weird was happening. Can this be a potential problem?

Thanks,
Mike

[Taelon]

No that is all perfectly normal. If you don't like the default ways that windows handles Optical media, (and I sure don't) change it!

Open My Computer, click on your "CD Drive", select "Properties" then the "AutoPlay" Tab
From the top pulldown box you can select the type of file or media and below that you can specify the default action including "take no action" or you can choose to "Prompt me each time.."

hope this helps

[analyst44]

just to be clear, it's not necessarily the window that bothers me but that i put in a dvd and that it calls it a CD -- both when a blank disc is put in and when a video disc is put in as well.


i hear you on the default settings. was just wondering why windows cannot distinguinsh between a dvd and cd -- even in "my computer" where it lists the type of media.

this is obviously not a huge deal if it doesn't have a negative consequence. i think the inquiry was sort of asking if it might...

thanks for the speedy response. great, great forum on here. there's so much information it makes my head spin!

[Taelon]

Only m$ knows why they don't differentiate, AFAIK all optical drives are identified as "CD Drive" in Win O/S's at least up to and including XP w SP2, possibly they make a distinction in the new Media Center O/S.

I tried to allay your concern with the remark that it was "perfectly normal". Sorry I didn't elaborate in my first reply.

[analyst44]

perfect. thanks so much!