Several unique terms and phrases describe the features of software we review on this site, some easier to grasp than others. This list briefly defines terms relevant to CD Burning Software.

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Ratings

Feature Set

Does the software provide all of the necessary components to complete the copy? Does the software provide additional features above and beyond CD copying, such as CD labeling?

Ease of Use

Is the product easy to use? Do any errors occur during the copy process? Are the on-screen instructions simple to understand? Can you find the help documentation easily?

Ease of Installation

Does the product require multiple program installations? Are there any errors during the installation and setup?

Quality of Copy

How well does the software burn the CD? Is there any noticeable audio distortion?

Help/Documentation

Is the help document well-written and easy to navigate? Does the help section walk you through the entire CD burn process step-by-step?

Copying Capabilities

MP3 Files

MP3 is an audio file format commonly found in music downloaded from the Internet. This feature converts audio MP3 file formats to audio WAV files to be played in a music CD player.

WMA Files

WMA is an audio file format commonly found in music downloaded from the Internet. This feature converts audio WMA file formats to audio WAV files to be played in a music CD player.

Images/Photos

This feature allows you the option to make a slideshow of your personal photos or copy them all to a CD-R.

Data/Folders/Files

The software allows you to backup data (e.g. files or folders) onto a CD-R.

Video CD (VCD,SVCD)

The software copies DVD movies or video files to a CD-R in the Super Video or Video CD format. Most DVD players on the market can play Video CDs and Super Video CDs.

Other Features

Drag and Drop Files and Folders

The software will allow you the option to drag and drop the songs, files or folders that you want to copy, offering a convenient way to copy only what you want.

Add Title, Artist and Genre Tags to Audio Tracks

The software will allow you add the title, artist, and genre to the audio tracks to that the next time you want to listen to the CD on your computer or other playing device, you are able to see the information about the CD.

Erases CD-RW Discs

Software with this ability can erase data (write over top of data) that is already burned onto a CD-RW.

Ability to Make CD/DVD Labels

Software products with this feature provide you with the tools you will need to design a label for your CD.

Ability to Select Burning Speed

Software with this option lets you to select the maximum or minimum speed for CD burning; you match your copying speed to the speed of your hardware system to allow the hardware and software to work optimally together.

WAV Editor

The WAV editor allows you to modify your WAV files in order to customize your songs exactly the way you want them. You can add special effects, fade the ends of songs, overlay your own voice in the background, etc.

Audio CD Player Software Included

Some copiers include CD player software so that you can play your music CDs on your PC after you copy them.

Displays PC's System Features

The software will scan your system and list what kind of hardware you have, allowing you to choose the best options for making copies.

RAW Mode

RAW mode allows a program to transfer bits directly to or from an I/O device. In other words, you can create an exact 1:1 copy of your original CD. In order to use this option you need to have a CD burner that supports this function. A few burner manufacturers that frequently have RAW integrated into their hardware include: Toshiba, Sony and Mitsumi.

Ability to Perform a Test Copy

The software tests the hard drive to make sure that the software will burn the data to a CD-R correctly before you actually perform the burn.

Schedule File Backups

Some products have the ability to backup files onto CDs. This feature will allow you to set a schedule for when your files will be backed up.

Disc Types

CD-R(W), CD+R(W)

Some software can copy data or music to regular CDs or rewritable CDs.

DVD-R(W), DVD+R(W)

Some software can copy data, music or videos to larger, blank DVDs as well as to smaller CDs.

Dual Layer DVD

The software will allow you copy music, data or video to Dual Layer DVD's.

CD+G Karaoke Discs

A CD+G disc is a disc that allows you to copy an image along with an audio file. The most common use for such a disc is for a karaoke machine. You can store whatever visual background you want along with the music.

Music CD Customization

Create Smooth Transitions Between Tracks

This feature permits you to remove or add the silence between each song on your copied CD so that you can fit in as much as possible or make the CD run smoothly.

Mix or Fade Audio between Tracks

Software with this feature allows you the option to have music fade out at the end.

Select the Track(s) to Copy

You can manually pick which songs, or tracks, that you want copied onto your CD.

Technical Support

Help Documentation Available

This is the documentation that offers assistance for setting up and running the software.

Easy Upgrades Available

Software with this option allows you to go to the manufacturer's website to easily download the latest upgrades and fixes that will keep your software running at optimal levels.

Live Chat

This service feature allows customers to have a live, typed chat with a representative online. Sometimes this feature is available 24/7.

Telephone Support

Many customers prefer a telephone number to contact customer service instead of email.

Email

Electronic mail is a common, convenient method for customer support.

Online Forum/FAQs

Frequently Asked Questions and Question/Answer Forums are often listed on software manufacturer's websites.

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