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In the ancient mid-1990s, you needed a $1,000 software program and a cutting-edge computer to record discs, but fortunately things have changed since then. DVD recorders are now tame and lovable creatures. They ask for only the basics — in fact, if your computer came with a CD-RW drive already installed, you can skip this article, because you're likely to have everything you need.
What you need for Windows
The basic minimum requirements for CD and DVD recording on a PC that's running Windows 98 or Me are as follows:
- A Pentium II PC (or better): You need at least 64MB RAM and 1GB of free hard drive space (for a CD recorder). If you're recording DVDs, you need up to 6GB of free space.
- A CD or DVD recorder: Of course, you also need the proper connection. Internal recorders use Enhanced Integrated Drive Electronics (EIDE) or Small Computer System Interface (SCSI) connections. External recorders can use SCSI, Universal Serial Bus (USB), or FireWire connections. If you're using an external drive, it should come with the cables that you need.
- Recording software: Most recorders come bundled with some sort of software. If your computer already has a recorder, it probably also came with the programs that you need to burn your discs.
The basic minimum requirements for CD and DVD recording on a PC that's running Windows 2000 or XP are as follows:
- A Pentium III PC (or better): You need at least 128MB RAM and 1GB of free hard drive space (for a CD recorder) or up to 6GB of free space (for a DVD recorder).
- A CD or DVD recorder: Again, your internal choices are EIDE and SCSI, while external recorders can use SCSI, USB, or FireWire connections.
- Recording software: Whether your software is bundled with your drive or provided with your computer, you'll need a program to burn.
- Blank media: You can't burn without the raw material.
What you need for the Macintosh
The basic minimum requirements for CD and DVD recording on a Macintosh that's running Mac OS 9 or Mac OS X are as follows:
- A PowerPC Mac of any speed with at least 64MB RAM and 1GB of free hard drive space: You need up to 6GB of free space if you're recording DVDs.
- A CD or DVD recorder: Most Macs come with internal CD-RW or
DVD-RW drives, but you can also use external recorders with SCSI, USB, or FireWire connections.
- Recording software: Mac OS X allows you to burn discs from the Finder menu, and you can burn discs from within iTunes as well. Other commercial recording programs are available.
- Blank media: Gotta have it.
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