DVD +R or -R : How can I tell?

Dinarius

I normally use +R DVDs in my DELL desktop.

Just been to Argos and they didn't have any, so I bought a spindle of -R DVDs.

Before I open them, how can I tell if they'll work?

Many thanks.

D.

Karoma

1. Read the manual.
2. A lot of DVD burning software (Nero, imgburn, etc.) have tools to check the drive's abilities.
3. Check device manager (start-run-devmgmt.msc - google the drive name & version)

That'll tell you if it'll use -R ... whether the specific brand works is another question.

Leginos

If you bought your Dell in the last 2 or 3 years then there's a very good chance it can use both types.

The older it is, the more likely that it only uses one type or the other.

Gadgetman496

Dinarius wrote: »

I normally use +R DVDs in my DELL desktop.

Just been to Argos and they didn't have any, so I bought a spindle of -R DVDs.

Before I open them, how can I tell if they'll work?

Many thanks.

D.

DVD Identifier should do it for you (see Pic below)
http://dvd.identifier.cdfreaks.com/

Dinarius

Guys, many thanks for the replies and in particular for the tips regarding identifying which type my machine can burn.

As it happens, I use CDBurnerXP and there is a drop down menu where I have to choose either CD or DVD.

The DVD menu item reads: E:Philips DVD +-RW DVD8801.

So, I assume that it can burn both types?

Thanks again.

D.

Leginos

Yep. You can use both types with that drive.