deleting files from a rewritable CD

I found a similar thread (http://windowsbbs.com/showthread.php?t=10104&highlight=delete+rewritable), but the solution suggested there was to use DOS, which I don't think is an option with WinXP.
Basically, I'd like to completely erase the contents of a rewritable CD. When I try to delete the contents, I get a message that the "files on the CD are read-only. You can still copy new files to this writable CD, which will replace files already on the disc." [It has not escaped my notice that the message refers to a WRITABLE CD, not a rewritable one, but the CD case is clearly labeled "Sony CD-RW Rewritable ".]
I've tried changing the attributes of the files/folders from "read only" to "archive ", but no go ( "access is denied ").
I have been able to add files to the CD (and subsequently delete those, just as a matter of curiosity), but I think the existing files/folders on the CD are some sort of a recovery CD (possibly for my old WinME system), and I don't want any of that stuff potentially contaminating my new system.
So is there any way to clear off this CD, or should I just chuck it?
Thanks!

 

Are you using 3rd party software? If so what is it? If not, that's what you need if you want all the options.

 

I used Click 'n Burn or Adaptec when I put those initial files/folders on the CD, but neither program works with WinXP. Dare I ask if there are any freebie programs that might do the trick in my case? I don't want to do anything fancy, just plain delete everything on the CD...

 

Without having a burning program, you're at the mercy of XP, which I don't use. However, what have you tried? BTW, a command window (start>run> cmd>enter) is the same as DOS for practical use as suggested in the post you quoted.

As a last resort, try copying everything to a new folder and delete what you wish there (you'll have to uncheck the read only in properties before delete will work), then format the RW disk and write the files left in the folder to it.

Oops, reread above; format the CD should clean it.

 

Hi Rebecca,

This should work, worked for me when I was using CD-RW's.

From Help and Support on the start menu:

To erase files from a CD

Open My Computer.

Double-click the CD recording drive. Windows displays the files and folders located on the CD.

Under CD Writing Tasks, click erase this CD-RW. Windows displays the CD Writing Wizard.

Follow the instructions in the wizard to delete the files on the CD-RW.

Erasing the CD deletes all the files on the CD; you cannot select individual files to delete.

Regards - Charles

 

Your post mentioned that Adaptec doesn't work on XP. It will if you go to http://www.roxio.com/en/support/software_updates.jhtml and update the version you now have it will solve most of your problems maybe all. There was an update for Adaptec (Roxio) that makes it compliant with Win XP. There may be even further update that will apply to you.

Note your version and from the Web Page listed above update to the latest version available.

I'm still using a version that came with Win 98. It works well with XP. I now have a DVD/Writer and I have set the Writer to read, write, add and delete files on a CD through Adaptec, which was bought by Roxio and I think they have sold it to someone.. My point is you can add/delete files on a CD using the updated program in Win XP.

Maybe Worth trying.

 

Cheap but Good Software

If you look at some of the shopping services, you will find great "last generation" software like Nero 6.6 for just $5 delivered. This solves all the DVD/CD problems you could have with XP. Check out -->
http://www.pricewatch.com/
or
http://www.pricegrabber.com/

and search for "Nero" or "Roxio ".
Good Luck
Top Dog