CD-R recording length

[canit]

Music, data or other? What software are you using? I can "overpack" music using Adaptec 4 by just adding more music(songs). I can fit about 78min using Memorex.

[qball]

canit is on the right track.

You need burner software that can 'overburn' a CDR. Adaptec4 can do it, but check some other ones like Nero.

[juanca601]

Thanks for the replies.
I'm talking about music CDs. However I don't quite understand the "overburning" concept if the manufacturer makes some CDs that can hold 74 minutes and other CDs that (acording to that same manufacturer) can hold 80 minutes. I am obviously extending my experience with cassette recording, which is not the same as CD recording, but I still don't quite understand what I am missing.

[Szech]

The concept of "overburning" involves starting the burn closer in the CD, and ending the burn closer to the edge of the CD. This allows more information to be packed on the CD. 80 minute CDs merely have the burn surface closer to the center of the CD and the outer edge. This assures your burner isn't writing on plastic. However, that's just the CD. Your burner has to support it, the burn software has to support it, and if you're going to play it in a stereo, the stereo has to support it. Mechanically, that's because the laser has to be able to move in closer, and move out farther. Most drives do this, so I'm guessing it's the burn software that's screwy. Good luck!

[juanca601]

Thank you Szech; Now I understand. Now I'll try to follow Canit's and qballs advise and see if I can burn to the edges.

[juanca601]

I have tried to get my CD-RW drive (Plextor 12-10-32) to record 80 minute disks made by Memorex. It will only recognize 74 minutes as recording length. Does anyone know how to get the full 80 minutes?