How to Format a Blank CD

When you purchase blank CDs in large quantities, you might receive one or two that do not work properly. Formatting your blank disk can frequently fix this. You also might want to modify how a blank CD is formatted. Whatever your reason, it's easy to format a blank CD with Windows XP or Vista.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

1. Insert the blank CD into your disk drive and close the drive.

2. Select "Start" from the lower-left corner of your screen while on your desktop (if using Vista, select the Vista icon in the same location). Left-click on "Computer" in the left menu bar. This opens an overview of your computer drives and other items.

3. Right-click the icon for the drive containing your blank CD and select "Format" from the pop-up menu. This will open the "Format Wizard" window.

4. Leave the default parameters set unless you want to modify the size. This may not be possible with all disks. Name your blank disk if you choose.

5. Click "Start" at the bottom of the window. Your disk will now be formatted.

Tips & Warnings

• You cannot format write-protected disks.