[Charlie88]

I've never really had any tech problems before, but this one is a mystery... (And sadly, I've not been able to get any tech support from Vivastar -- very disappointing)

My computer: Win98, 650mhz, 256mb RAM.

I installed the Vivastar RS-111 internal disk drive, along with the attached software. The drive works perfectly reading regular DVD movies, and other disks. However, it will not read 4.7 GB DVD-RAM disks (in-cartridge or out of cartridge) as advertised (it also can allegedly record DVD-RAMs, but I don't use that function).
When I try to play them, I get the pop-up error message that the drive isn't ready, or something like that.

The DVD-RAMs were originally recorded on a Panasonic DMR-E10, and play perfectly on that system.

Could there be different DVD-RAM formats, making the Vivastar RS-111 and the Panasonic DMR-E10 not compatible? If so, what can I do about it? Is the RS-111 drive just broken? Any ideas???

THANKS!!!

 

[Valiant]

If your supposed to be able to record DVD's and you can't I suggest you take it back anyway, but there are several types of DVD formats, unfortunately it is split pretty even, so I'm not sure which will win... and to tell you the truth I'm not even that familiar that I know the names of the formats. I still think you should bring the Vivastar back and go with maybe another Panasonic or something along those lines.

 

[Doonz]

Val is right....To be exact there are three diffrent DVD standards...pansonic, HP and I am not sure of the third...but it looks like HP's format is going to win out...it is still to early and not standardized to deal with DVD-RW...

if you still have questions....

http://www.dvddemystified.com/dvdfaq.html

http://news.com.com/2100-1040-807418.html?legacy=cnet

http://www.dvdrw.com/glossary3.html