Doesn't iBook G3 DVD-ROM read DVD-RW?

I'm not certain about this, but maybe the formatting for the PC data DVD is not recognized by the iBook.

Ronda is on the right track.

Which software are you using to write the DVD-RW on the PC?

The problem probably arises as the when the PC writes the DVD-R it uses a standard (ISO 966) which the iBook can read.

When writing the DVD-RW often PC software will format the disk so it acts like a floppy disk. However this proprietary format will only be readable on the PC with the disc writing software, the disc is unreadable, not just on Macs, but also on PCs as well.

How you correct this depends on the software you are using.

I would change the DVD-RW settings or create a disk image using the DVD burning software and then burn that ISO 9660 image to the DVD-RW, this should then be readable by the iBook.

Regards

iFelix

Can you confirm you are using DVD-RW and not DVD+RW

Are you closing the DVD-RW after burning it? (Depending on the program used, the terminology may be along the lines of 'make read-only' or the like instead of 'close'). From experience at work in sending data out of closed labs to various places and computers, CD-R/DVD-R disks that are left as write-appendable in Windows burning software will only be readable on other PCs with exactly the same version of exactly the same program, and even then odds are good that someone still won't be able to read the disc. Chose the option to close / lock / write-protect / make read-only the disc (or whatever the program calls it).

(This is in addition to iFelix's tip about the disc's underlying format.)

Yes, that's my experience with RW discs, both CD and DVD, too , JMVP. Proper "finishing" is necessary for their use with a Mac.

Cheers

Rod

At least one of our DVD recorders terms this "finalizing" the DVD. However, that seems to do away with the purpose of using a DVD-RW, doesn't it?

If using Nero (switch to full mode if using Express mode)

Edit > Properties

Multisesson tab > check No Multisession

iFelix

Kind of yes, but you can always erase the RW and write again.

Finalising the disc doesn't stop you from using the disc again, it just stops you from adding to the disc. You can always erase and start again.

iFelix

Ah, the wabbit has headed right again! I'm not going to be able to resist reporting it one day soon, you know!

Cheers

Rod

Is there any possiblilty that my dvd-rom is not compatible with dvd-rw media?

Moonhill, NO DVD-ROM drive will read disks, whether R , RW or anything else, that haven't been finalised as far as I know.

You might want to think about adding an external Firewire DVD burner/ reader. These drives are usuallly far more compatible, both for reading and writing, than the internal drives in older computers.


Cheers

Rod