Figure 1: Copying Files For Burning
Windows XP has built-in CD burning software. This makes it fairly simple to back up the My Documents folder as long as it contains 700 megabytes or less. Here are step-by-step directions for doing so.
Step 1: Insert Blank Media. Insert a blank CD-R or CD-RW disc. Or, if the backup size is small enough, it might be possible to continue using an existing backup CD.
Tip: CD-R, or write once, media is faster then CD-RW, or read/write media. We recommend using CD-R for two reasons. First, it's a good idea to hang on to backups for years so there is no point in reusing the disks. Second, CD-R discs cost about 1/5 as much as CD-RW discs.
Step 2: Create Temporary Burn Files. Move a copy of the My Documents folder to the CD drive. One fast way to do this is open My Computer from either the Start menu or the desktop, then drag the My Documents icon and drop it on the burner icon. Another way is to open My Documents, perform Edit | Select All, then File | Send To the burner drive.
Tip: This step may take a while with many files.
Figure 1: Copying Files For Burning
Step 3: Open the CD Burner Root. After the files finish copying, a yellow balloon will appear for a short time. Click on this balloon to open the root of the CD burner.
Tip: If the yellow balloon disappears, double click on the icon of the CD burner from within the My Computer window.
Figure 2: CD Burner Root Showing Temporary Burn Files
Step 4: Start the CD Burning Wizard. Click the Write These Files to CD link in the left hand task pane to start the CD Writing Wizard.
Tip: Don't see a task pane? Choose Write these files to CD under the File Menu.
Step 5: Complete the CD Burning Wizard. Follow the prompts and click Next until the Wizard completes, then click Finish.
Tip: deleting the temporary files when prompted will save disk space.
Figure 3: CD Writing Wizard Start Screen
Step 6: Verify the Backup Worked. Eject the CD from the drive, then reinsert it. Go to My Computer and then double click on the burner icon. Verify it is possible to open files from the CD.
Feel free to call (number below) or send us email if you have questions about this tip.
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