How to Find CD Emulation Software on a PC

Even in this day and age of massive hard drives and RAM, some programs will only run with a CD inserted into your PC's disc drive. However, a CD emulator program can load a virtual copy onto your hard drive to bypass needing the physical disc. There are many programs to choose from, but following the steps below will help you pick the one that's right for you.

Instructions

1. Go to download.cnet.com. Ensure you are in the Windows tab and search "CD emulator," "CD emulation" and similar key phrases. Begin to compile a list of available applications.

2. Read any reviews available. CNET editors' reviews often provide the most insight, but user reviews can be helpful as well. Figure out what features you need from your CD emulator to narrow down your options.

3. Take a look at how many downloads each application has. While popularity does not guarantee quality, in the free market of the Internet the two often go hand in hand. You can sort your CNET search results by "Total Downloads." As of November 2009, the Daemon Tools Pro application leads the way in CNET downloads 5-to-1 and gets five stars from the CNET editors. However, the Alcohol 52% program garners the same rating.

4. Visit the developer websites of any programs you like. Compare prices and see if they have a free trial download. Unfortunately, any effective CD emulator program costs money.

5. If you are still unsure of which program is right for you, search around PC forums to see discussions of the different options. Often simply doing a Google search of "CD emulator forum" (no quotes) or the like will turn up results to help you decide.

Tips & Warnings

• Any decent program will generally come with a free trial. Be wary of purchasing any application that doesn't offer a free trial.

References

• PC World Forums

Resources

• CNET Downloads
• Daemon Tools
• Alcohol 52%