CD-RW Files Backup

[thecavern]

I'm not sure what Forum to use for this question --- thought I'd try it here first.

I back up selected word files and folders on a CD-RW.

About twice a year I'll update the disc by deleting, updating and adding files.

When using the disc today, no matter what file or folder I "right clicked" on, the "delete" option

would not apear. Previosly I never had this problem.

I looked around at "properties" -- couldn't see anything new except for the fact there is no

longer any "free space" on the disc. That would explain why I can't add a new file but does

not explain why "delete" no longer occurs.

Can anyone help ??

[jaclaz]

I back up selected word files and folders on a CD-RW.

HOW?

Meaning which app/method do you use to "backup"?

If you simply copy the files to the CDRW what you describe may be "normal".

The way CDRW work is different from what you are probably are used to (floppies and hard disks).

When you delete a file on a CDRW you don't actually delete it, you simply "hide" it.

See if this helps explaining the issue:

http://askbobrankin.com/cant_delete_from_cdrw.html

jaclaz

[thecavern]

Thanks for the respnose.

I use the simple method of copying files. I insert the disc, bring up my Documents, click

on a particular file or folder and use "Send To" the E-Drive.

I do know that I have actually deleted files from the CD-RW on occassion.

Since files are actually not deleted but "hidden" then once the disc has no "free space" I assume

that would prevent deleting a file --- no where to "hide it".

I have seen a "compress" option but not sure if that would apply only to the disc itself.

I can look into those outside programs but it may be that I'll just have to erase the CD-RW

and do another back up of my files.

[jaclaz]

Since files are actually not deleted but "hidden" then once the disc has no "free space" I assume

that would prevent deleting a file --- no where to "hide it".

Exactly.

I can look into those outside programs but it may be that I'll just have to erase the CD-RW

and do another back up of my files.

Yep.

I would suggest first doing a backup of the CDRW "as is" (i.e. of it's "viewable" contents), and only later erase it , though .

jaclaz