Using CD-RW for Data

Seems my computer has a CD-Rom and CD-RW. Now for copying there is no problem whether I use CD-R or CD-RW as it copies the whole disk.
When it comes to copying a file to CD-R that already has files on it(created on other computer), I get the message that I need to insert a disk. As long as there are files on the disk, the disk will not let me add anymore.
From what I understand the drives installed on the new computer, which are stated above, are only good as long as I am using CD-RW disks. This will allow me to add more files, create a disk by copying, etc. Yet it says that for MP3 files I should use CD-R as CD-RW disks usually will not play back on car stereos etc. Very confused at this point.
So other than buying CD-RW disks which is the one way to copy files and add to that same disk. All I wanted to do was to be able to copy files to disk for futute use without leaving it on the hard drive or copying it to 3.5 disk.
I assume it would be more reasonable to buy new CD-RW disks rather than to replace the drive.
Please explain what hardware I should have ordered.
Claire

 

msbooch--Once you Close Disk using a CD-R, you cannot write anymore to it.
http://dpfwiw.com/cd-r.htm
Perhaps whoever wrote that disk (on the other computer) did use Close Disk?

 

Depends greatly on the software you're using. Roxio's 'drag and drop' will allow copying files intermittantly to CD-Rs but Nero's InCD will only use CD-RWs. I never use XP's cdwriting so don't know what that will do.

 

sparrow---- XP (Dell computer) offers Sonic for CD Burning. This is where I am having a problem using Sonic. If I understand you correctly if I put Roxio software (which I have the software for XP) on the Dell Computer then I should be able to add files to the CD-R disk created on the Dell computer.
So depending upon the software and not the hardware can cause how CD Burning works! I will try it as I have tons of blank CD-R disks.
welshjim--- I never close a disk unless I am downloading music and want to play it. And the disk was started on the Dell Computer using Sonic.
I will try anything right now so my new computer has many of the utilities I like to use.

 

Not really up on Roxio as I use Nero but with Nero you have the option to burn ANY CD as finalised or multi session. If you finalise the CD is done. No additions can be made. If you use multi session you can later add files but once there you can NOT remove them.

 

Claire
Roxio should work fine, if you start a new blank CD and drag and drop the files to it. I'm not sure if it will add to a CD made by the other program, but you can copy the files to your HDD and then drag them to the Roxio disk. Be sure you install drag and drop.

jaylach
Nero keeps catching up and I'm not surprised that it can now burn CD-Rs like roxio, but version 5.5 and earlier couldn't.

 

Got it using Roxio. Seems this software will add more files to CD-R disk created from other computer. This is what I wanted so I would not have to always put in a new disk, really for anything.
I like to save items as I am on the Internet whether images or files. I figured I have adequate storage on the new computer to store for a rainy day but why clutter up the hard drive.
Thanks to both of you for your ideas and help. Another hurdle is done with.
Claire